The Digest:
Despite the lingering disappointment of missing World Cup qualification, Nigeria's Super Eagles have ended 2025 on an upward trajectory, climbing four places to secure 38th in the world and 5th in Africa in the latest FIFA rankings. The rise comes as the team prepares to channel that momentum into their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title, starting with a crucial match against Tanzania.
Key Points:
- The Super Eagles have risen to 38th in the FIFA World Rankings, climbing four spots.
- They are now the fifth-ranked team in Africa, behind Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, and Egypt.
- This improvement comes despite the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Nigeria's AFCON campaign begins Tuesday against Tanzania in Fez, Morocco.
- Globally, Spain remains top, followed by Argentina and France.
- Morocco, as Africa's top team, sits 11th globally and is close to breaking into the world’s top ten.
- The rankings reflect a stable global order, with European nations dominating the top 50.
Sources: FIFA Rankings, Leadership
