The Super Eagles have fallen by eight places in the latest FIFA rankings, moving to 38th globally following a dismal outing in the race for the 2026 World Cup. 

Nigeria suffered their first-ever loss to Benin Republic and previously drew with South Africa, all matches in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for Africa, significantly impacting their chances of qualifying for the tournament.

According to FIFA’s latest rankings released on Thursday, the Super Eagles now sit 5th in Africa, slipping two positions on the continental ladder.

Morocco has climbed one spot to become the top-ranked team in Africa, securing the 12th position globally. Following them are Senegal (18th), Egypt (36th), and Cote d’Ivoire (37th), respectively, in the continental rankings.

Argentina, France, Belgium, Brazil, and England currently occupy the top five positions globally.

Eagles In Crisis

The Super Eagles’ disappointing performance in the World Cup qualification campaign has resulted in them accumulating only three points from four games, leaving them four points behind leaders Rwanda in Group C.

In response to this lackluster showing, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced plans to appoint a technical adviser for the team in the coming weeks.

Shortly after this decision, Finidi George resigned from his position as the head coach of the team, despite having been appointed less than two months earlier.

Finidi’s resignation coincided with a public dispute between him and star forward Victor Osimhen, who criticized Finidi for allegedly accusing him of lacking commitment to the national team.

As of now, the NFF has not issued an official statement regarding Finidi’s resignation or Osimhen’s remarks. The Super Eagles’ next competitive fixture will be later this year during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.