FIFA Ranking: Super Eagles make quantum leap despite World Cup heartbreak

Nigeria may have fallen short in their quest for a World Cup return, but the Super Eagles still found reason to smile on Wednesday as they climbed three places to 38th in the latest FIFA world rankings released on 19 November 2025. 

The rise comes in a month dominated by the African playoff series, where Nigeria exited on penalties to DR Congo in Rabat.

Despite that setback, the team’s performances over the qualification cycle, particularly strong away results and their commanding win over Gabon boosted their points tally enough to push them up the global ladder. 

The Super Eagles also remain fifth in Africa, sitting behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt and Algeria in the continental standings.

Super Eagles seek redemption at AFCON 2025

The upward movement will provide some encouragement as the team turns attention to the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next month. 

Nigeria head into the tournament placed in a competitive Group B with Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda, and the latest ranking reflects their standing as one of the continent’s perennial contenders despite recent frustrations.

It also adds context to the review the Nigeria Football Federation must now undertake following the playoff disappointment. With Eric Chelle’s future still unresolved, the ranking boost serves as a reminder that the foundations of a competitive squad are already in place.

The task ahead will be converting that global standing into results when the AFCON begins, as the Super Eagles chase a fourth continental crown and look to steady the narrative after a turbulent November.