Nigeria's Super Eagles Hit 26th in FIFA Rankings

Nigeria's Super Eagles are soaring higher than they have in over a decade, climbing to 26th in the FIFA world rankings after an impressive showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The 12-spot jump marks their highest position since May 2010, when they reached 21st place.

Coach Eric Chelle's squad earned the bronze medal at the continental tournament, gaining 79.09 ranking points along the way. That's the biggest points increase of any country in the latest FIFA update, a testament to their dominant performances on the pitch.

The team's path to bronze was nothing short of thrilling. They crushed Mozambique 4-0 in the round of 16, then shut out Algeria 2-0 in the quarterfinals. Though they fell to host Morocco in a penalty shootout after a scoreless semifinal, they bounced back with determination.

In the third-place match, Nigeria faced Egypt in another goalless draw, then won 4-2 on penalties to claim the bronze. The team recorded six wins and just one loss across seven matches during the ranking period.

The Ripple Effect

Nigeria's rise is lifting all of African football. The continent now boasts nine teams in the world's top 50, up from just seven at the end of 2025. Morocco made their first top 10 appearance since 1998, climbing to eighth place after reaching the final.

Cameroon matched Nigeria's 12-spot climb, while Algeria rose to 28th, Egypt to 31st, and Ivory Coast to 37th. Senegal, who won the tournament, jumped seven places to 12th, achieving their highest ranking ever. African teams are proving they belong among the world's elite.

The success comes at a crucial time for Nigerian football, showing that consistent performance and teamwork can overcome challenges. The next FIFA rankings release on April 1, 2026, giving the Super Eagles another chance to climb even higher.

For a country passionate about soccer, this achievement reminds millions of young Nigerians that their dreams of football glory are more than possible.