Nigeria's impressive showing at the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations has yielded some dividends at the team moved 14 places on the FIFA ranking according to the latest placements released on Thursday.
The Super Eagles' remarkable ascent in the FIFA rankings marks a significant achievement for Nigerian football.
Prior to the Africa Cup of Nations, the team was positioned at a respectable 42nd place globally.
However, their stellar performance in the tournament propelled them to a commendable 28th position in the latest rankings, showcasing their prowess on the international stage.
In the African rankings, Nigeria's rise is equally impressive. From being sixth in Africa before the AFCON, they have now surged to the third position, underlining their prestige on the continental level.
This climb reflects not only the team's success but also the depth of talent and determination within Nigerian football.
This surge in the rankings represents the Super Eagles' highest placement in approximately four years, indicating a resurgence in their performance and standing in world football.
The credit for this achievement largely goes to the team's outstanding performance throughout the AFCON tournament held in Ivory Coast.
During the AFCON, Nigeria showcased their strength and resilience, playing a total of seven matches.
They secured victories in five of these encounters against formidable opponents such as Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, Angola, and South Africa.
Despite facing stiff competition, they only suffered one defeat, a narrow 2-1 loss against Ivory Coast in the final. This impressive run highlights the team's ability to compete at the highest level and consistently deliver results.
Super Eagles earn due rewards for AFCON showing
The Super Eagles' rise in the rankings places them in elite company among Africa's top footballing nations. They now sit just behind powerhouses Morocco and Senegal, firmly establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in African football.
With Egypt and the Ivory Coast rounding out the top five, Nigeria's standing reflects the competitive landscape of football on the continent.
Looking ahead, the Super Eagles will aim to build on their success and maintain their upward trajectory in the FIFA rankings.
With a talented squad and a renewed sense of confidence, they are well-positioned to continue their ascent and make their mark on the global footballing stage. As Nigerian football continues to thrive, the future looks bright for the Super Eagles.
Top 10 African teams
- Morocco – 12
- Senegal – 17
- Nigeria – 28
- Egypt – 36
- Ivory Coast – 39
- Tunisia – 41
- Algeria – 43
- Mali – 47
- Cameroon – 51
- South Africa – 59
