The Super Eagles of Nigeria have endured a significant setback in the latest FIFA rankings, dropping from 36th to 44th globally. This eight-place decline marks the largest drop recorded by any nation for November, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
The dramatic fall, the steepest for the team in recent years, follows a disappointing international window. The Eagles suffered a shocking 2-1 home defeat to Rwanda during the final phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The loss at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo ended Nigeria’s unbeaten streak in the qualifiers under coach Austin Eguavoen.
Before the loss to Rwanda, Nigeria managed a 1-1 draw against the Benin Republic at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. While the draw secured the Eagles a spot at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, their underwhelming performances contributed to their significant drop in global standings.
Global and African Rankings
Argentina continues to hold the top spot in the global rankings. Niger emerged as the biggest mover, climbing from 131st to 122nd, gaining 31.23 points. Meanwhile, Comoros achieved their highest-ever ranking, rising to 103rd, and DR Congo lost the most points (35.53).
Within Africa, Morocco retained the top position on the continent but slipped one spot to 14th globally. Senegal moved up three places to rank 17th in the world and second in Africa, followed by Egypt, who held onto third place on the continent despite dropping three spots globally to 33rd. Algeria overtook Nigeria to claim fourth in Africa, maintaining their 37th global ranking.
Nigeria now sits fifth in Africa, marking a notable decline from their previous fourth position. This is the Super Eagles’ most significant drop since February 2024, when they climbed from 42nd to 28th globally, achieving their best leap since 2013.
Top Global Teams
World Cup winners Argentina remain the top-ranked team, followed by France in second. Spain, England, and Brazil round out the Top 5.
The rankings reflect the challenges faced by the Super Eagles as they prepare for the 2025 AFCON, underlining the need for improvements to regain their standing in global football.
