Nigeria's Super Eagles Jump 12 Spots in FIFA Rankings

Nigeria's Super Eagles are soaring after climbing 12 spots to 26th place in the latest FIFA World Rankings, the team's biggest leap in recent memory.

The dramatic rise follows the team's impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they claimed third place. Under coach Eric Chelle's leadership, the Eagles won six of their seven tournament matches, losing only to host nation Morocco in a penalty shootout during the semifinals.

The team bounced back from that heartbreak with style, defeating Egypt 4-2 in the playoff match to secure their bronze medal. That victory showcased both the squad's attacking creativity and mental toughness when it mattered most.

The numbers tell the story of Nigeria's success. The Super Eagles recorded the highest points gain of any nation in the rankings, adding 79.09 points to their total. That's not just progress, it's a statement to the football world.

Nigeria now ranks third among African nations, trailing only Morocco and Senegal on the continental stage. The top 10 African teams include Algeria, Egypt, Côte d'Ivoire, Cameroon, Tunisia, Congo DR, and Mali, but Nigeria's rapid climb shows they're a team on the rise.

The Ripple Effect

Nigeria's success reflects a broader shift in African football. Teams from the continent are increasingly competing at the highest levels, earning respect and recognition in global rankings. The Super Eagles' performance has energized fans across Nigeria and inspired a new generation of young players who see what's possible when talent meets determination.

Coach Eric Chelle's approach of building team cohesion and tactical discipline is paying dividends. The third-place finish at AFCON represents Nigeria's best tournament result in recent years, proving that the team's development is heading in the right direction.

For Nigerian football fans who have endured disappointments in past tournaments, this ranking jump offers tangible proof of progress. The Super Eagles aren't just climbing numbers on a list; they're building momentum for future competitions, including World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria's rise sends a powerful message: African football is thriving, and the Super Eagles are ready to compete with anyone.