THE Super Eagles of Nigeria have slipped up heavily in the FIFA ranking following disappointing results in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The three-time African champions drew 1-1 at home to South Africa on June 7 and lost 2-1 to Benin Republic in Abijdan three days later as their World Cup hopes dimmed.
The results took a heavy toll on the ranking as the Super Eagles fell eight places, from 30th at the last ranking in April to 38th today.
They also lost 21 ranking points, dropping from 1520 to 1499.
This is the Super Eagles’ lowest position in the FIFA ranking since December 2023 when they were 42nd in the world.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying opponents Benin Republic reaped the rewards of their shocking victory over their much more illustrious neighbours by rising in the ranking.
Handled by former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr, Benin Republic soared seven places in the ranking to 91st in the world, their highest position since October 2022 when they were also 91st.
South Africa, who drew with the Super Eagles in Uyo, maintained their 59th position in the ranking but gained nine points, from 1408 to 1417.
In spite of the sharp drop, Nigeria remain in the top five places in Africa, in fifth spot.
Morocco remain the top team in Africa (12th in the world), followed by Senegal (18th), Egypt (36th) and Cote d’Ivoire (37th).
Globally, remain No.1 in the world, with France, Belgium, Brazil and England completing the top five.
Liberia are the biggest climbers, moving up 10 places from 152nd to 142nd, while Equatorial Guinea dropped 10 spots to 89th in the biggest reverse.
