- Nigeria's Super Eagles fell eight places to 44th in the latest FIFA rankings, marking their steepest decline in recent years
- The drop stems from poor performances, including a 2-1 loss to Rwanda and a 1-1 draw with Benin in recent AFCON qualifiers
- Historically ranked as high as 5th globally, the Super Eagles now sit 5th in Africa, trailing behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt and Algeria
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have faced a major setback in the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday, November 28 recording the steepest drop of any national team in November. The three-time African champions fell from 36th to 44th in the global standings, marking an eight-place plunge and their biggest decline in recent years.
This drop comes on the heels of some disappointing performances during the last international break. The Super Eagles suffered an unexpected 2-1 defeat at home to Rwanda in the final phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, ending their unbeaten run in the campaign.
The game, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, left fans and analysts questioning the team’s preparedness for the upcoming 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
Before the loss to Rwanda, Nigeria struggled to a 1-1 draw against the Benin Republic at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. While the draw secured Nigeria’s qualification for AFCON 2025, the lacklustre performance contributed to their slide in the FIFA rankings.
A history of highs and lows
The Super Eagles have experienced both glory and setbacks in the FIFA rankings since their debut at 13th when the system was introduced in December 1992.
Their highest ranking of 5th came in April 1994, following their Africa Cup of Nations victory and a commendable debut World Cup appearance. However, their fortunes began to wane after being eliminated by Italy in their World Cup’s second appearance, dropping them to 10th globally.
Over the years, Nigeria has had notable top-10 placements, including 5th in April 1994, 7th in May 1994, and 9th in November 2006. Conversely, their lowest point came in November 1999, when they plummeted to 82nd.
The current drop to 44th globally has also affected their standing within Africa. The Super Eagles are now ranked 5th on the continent, down from 4th, with Algeria leapfrogging them to take the 4th spot.
Morocco continues to lead Africa despite slipping one place globally to 14th. Senegal follows in second place, having risen three spots to 17th globally, while Egypt retains third place in Africa despite dropping to 33rd worldwide.
Global rankings
Globally, Argentina remains the top-ranked team, maintaining dominance despite a recent loss to Paraguay in the qualifiers. Niger emerged as the biggest climber in the latest rankings, moving up nine places to 122nd.
Meanwhile, DR Congo experienced the most significant points loss, while Comoros achieved their highest-ever ranking, now sitting at 103rd.
Challenges ahead for Nigeria
With no more international matches scheduled for the Super Eagles in 2024, their position in the FIFA rankings is unlikely to improve in December’s next rank update. The decline raises critical questions about the team’s strategy, preparation, and leadership under Austin Eguavoen ahead of the AFCON 2025.
Eguavoen denies resignation rumours, says he’s still in charge
Previously, TheRadar reported that reports swirled in on Tuesday night, September 10, that Super Eagles interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen had resigned from his role following Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
However, Eguavoen has swiftly denied these claims, clarifying that no such decision has been made and that he remains fully in charge of the national team.
