Super Eagles Ranks 36th in Latest FIFA Rankings, Fourth in Africa

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have climbed three spots in the latest FIFA men’s rankings, moving from 39th to 36th globally.

The October rankings, released by FIFA yesterday, saw Nigeria gain 5.27 points, improving its position on the world stage. This move followed the Super Eagles’ 1-0 victory over Libya earlier this month in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match.

The Nigerian team, currently under interim management, also moved two places in Africa’s continental rankings and is now positioned as the fourth-best team on the continent.

Argentina remained the top-ranked team, with the top six remaining unchanged. On the African stage, Morocco held the top spot as the highest-ranked nation.

In women’s football, the Super Falcons of Nigeria held steady, ranked 36th worldwide and first in Africa. FIFA’s next rankings update is set for November 28, 2024.

It will be recalled that the Super Eagles announced they will not play their scheduled Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Libya after being stranded for more than 12 hours at an abandoned Libyan airport.

The decision was made after the team’s flight, which was descending into Benghazi, was diverted without warning by Libyan authorities, with the team left to endure dire conditions at Al Abraq Airport.

However, the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) condemned Nigeria’s decision to withdraw from their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier scheduled for October 15, threatening legal action to protect the interests of its national team.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) later expressed concern, saying it had launched an investigation into the incident. According to reports, CAF’s Disciplinary Board is set to announce its decision by tomorrow.