Nigeria's Super Eagles have dropped two places in the latest FIFA rankings released for March 2024.
The three-time African champions made a huge jump in the previous month’s ranking following his impressive showing at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the Ivory Coast.
The Super Eagles delivered a surprise performance at the AFCON, where they were unbeaten until they lost the final to the hosts. Having secured a runners-up medal at the tournament, Nigeria moved up to third in Africa and 28th in the world – their highest position in the FIFA rankings since 2013.
However, Nigeria have now dropped two places in the global ranking after mixed results in the March international friendlies against Ghana and Mali.
Finidi George’s side recorded an impressive 2-1 victory over the Black Stars in Marrakech but were disappointing in their next friendly against Mali, which they lost 2-0.
Super Eagles remain third in Africa
The result of the game against the Eagles seems to have particularly affected Nigeria’s place on the FIFA ranking, with the country dropping from 28th to 30th.
The Super Eagles have, however, maintained their position on the continent and remain third, behind Morocco and Senegal. Although Morocco didn’t do well at the AFCON, they remain Africa’s top-ranked team and occupy the 13th position in the world.
Senegal are behind the Atlas Lions in 17th position globally. Ivory Coast have also made a huge jump in the ranking after winning AFCON 2024 on home soil. The Elephants are currently fifth in Africa but have moved up one place to 38th in the world.
In the global rankings, world champions Argentina continue to lead, with France, Belgium, England and Brazil making the top five in that order.
Top 10 African teams
- Morocco – 13
- Senegal – 17
- Nigeria – 30
- Egypt – 37
- Ivory Coast – 38
- Tunisia – 41
- Algeria – 43
- Mali – 44
- Cameroon – 51
- South Africa – 59
