Nigeria climbs 14 spots in FIFA Rankings after AFCON 2023 defeat

The Super Eagles of Nigeria experienced a significant upward shift in the most recent FIFA rankings, climbing fourteen places following their performance in Ivory Coast. During their campaign, the Nigerian team showcased an impressive defensive record, scoring eight goals and conceding only four, securing four clean sheets. Despite their commendable run, they fell short of clinching the AFCON 2023 title under the management of Portuguese tactician Jose Peseiro.

The team’s noteworthy display in Ivory Coast not only earned them recognition but propelled them up the FIFA rankings, positioning them as the most improved African team. From their previous rank of 42, Nigeria ascended fourteen places, securing the 28th spot globally and ranking third in Africa. The two African nations ahead of Nigeria are Morocco (12th) and Senegal (17th).

Meanwhile, AFCON 2023 champions, Ivory Coast, experienced a positive shift in the rankings as well. Climbing ten places, they now hold the fifth position in Africa and stand at 39th globally, trailing just behind Egypt (36th). South Africa, the bronze medallists of AFCON 2023, also witnessed an improvement, moving from 66th to 58th in the rankings. Similarly, Qatar, winners of the Asian Cup, advanced twenty-one places to claim the 37th spot.

The top ten in the rankings maintained stability, with the FIFA 2022 World Cup winners leading the chart, closely followed by the FIFA 2018 World Cup winners, France. England, Belgium, Brazil, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Croatia rounded out the list of the world’s top-ten ranked nations.

Nigeria’s ascent to the 28th position marks a significant achievement, representing their highest ranking since securing victory in the AFCON tournament in 2013. The latest rankings reflect the Super Eagles’ continuous efforts to establish themselves as a formidable force in international football.