In a surprising turn of events, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have ascended in the global football standings despite the crushing disappointment of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The latest FIFA/Coca-Cola Men's World Ranking, released on November 20, 2025, shows a notable improvement for the Nigerian national team.
World Cup Failure, Ranking Success
The Super Eagles have moved up three places globally, now sitting in 38th position worldwide, an improvement from their previous 41st place. This positive movement comes even after the team's painful elimination from the 2026 World Cup qualification race last October. Nigeria finished second in their qualifying group behind South Africa, which initially offered a lifeline to the Mundial via the playoffs.
The team's journey ended in heartbreak during the playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the match went to a penalty shootout, where the Leopards emerged victorious with a 4-3 scoreline. A missed spot-kick by West Brom defender Semi Ajayi and a subsequent successful penalty from Lille's Chancel Mbemba sealed Nigeria's fate, sending DR Congo to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico.
Nigeria's Position in African Football
On the continental stage, Nigeria now holds the fifth position in Africa. The team accumulated a total of 1,502.46 ranking points, a significant increase from their previous tally of 1,481 points.
The African football hierarchy is currently led by Morocco, who occupy 11th place globally with 1,713.12 points. They are closely followed by the Terenga Lions of Senegal in 19th place worldwide (1,648.07 points). The Pharaohs of Egypt sit in third place on the continent and 34th globally with 1,520.68 points, while the Foxes of Algeria are just ahead of Nigeria in fourth place in Africa and 35th in the world with 1,516.37 points.
Global Ranking Leaders Hold Firm
At the summit of the global rankings, Spain has maintained its grip on the number one spot. The UEFA Nations Cup runner-up continues to impress with consistent performances in the World Cup qualifiers.
Three-time World Cup winners Argentina firmly hold the second position with 1,873.33 points, while European giants France complete the podium. Their rise is a testament to their impressive form since the 2022 World Cup. England occupies fourth place with 1,834.12 points, demonstrating fine recent form, while Brazil has climbed two places to secure fifth position globally with 1,760.46 points.
This ranking update provides a silver lining for Nigerian football fans after the team officially missed its second consecutive World Cup, having also been prevented from qualifying for the 2022 tournament by rivals Ghana.
