Nigeria FIFA ranking drop confirmed as Super Eagles fall to 44th after Russia draw. Team ranks fifth in Africa behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria
Nigeria’s senior men’s football team, the Super Eagles, have experienced a slight drop in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking, falling from 43rd to 44th globally.
Also read: Super Eagles rise to 36th in October FIFA rankings
The update was officially released by FIFA on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
The Nigeria FIFA ranking drop follows a mixed run of international matches. Most notably, Nigeria held Russia to a 1-1 draw in a friendly at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium.
While seen as a respectable result, it was insufficient to maintain their previous global standing.
Nigeria now sits fifth among African teams, behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria. Morocco, in particular, continues to dominate the continental rankings after a strong string of performances.
The FIFA rankings account for multiple factors, including match results, opponent strength, match importance, and regional form.
Nigeria’s recent matches, while steady, have lacked the consistent wins required to rise in the global table.
Argentina remains at the top of the world rankings, thanks to a solid run of wins in both competitive and friendly fixtures.
The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, are now focused on the upcoming qualification matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Head coach Eric Chelle, who recently released his CHAN squad, is working to rebuild and strengthen the team.
“The key now is tactical organisation and consistency,” a team analyst noted. “We’re close, but we need sharper finishes and discipline in big moments.”
Also read: FIFA ranking: Super Falcons retain 36th spot globally, remain 1st in Africa
Despite this setback, hopes remain high that Nigeria can soon break back into the top 40 with improved results and team cohesion.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
