Nigeria’s FIFA Ranking Takes a Hit Following Disappointing 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Performance

Jose Peseiro’s Squad Slips to 42nd Place as African Powerhouses Maintain Dominance

Nigeria’s lackluster performance in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers has left its mark on the national football team’s standing, as reflected in the latest FIFA Ranking released yesterday. The three-time AFCON Champion, under the guidance of Jose Peseiro, dropped to the 42nd position, signaling a downward shift in fortunes for the West African football powerhouse. View the ranking table here

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers witnessed Nigeria beginning their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home and away against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, respectively. In October, the team held the 40th position, but following their World Cup qualifier outings, they slid two places down to secure the 42nd spot globally and sixth in Africa.

Morocco continues to assert its dominance on the continent, maintaining the top spot as the 13th-rated team in the world. Meanwhile, AFCON champion Senegal holds the second position globally and 20th in the world. Tunisia (28), Algeria (30), and Egypt (33) follow as the third, fourth, and fifth highest-rated African teams.

The latest FIFA Ranking also showcases notable climbs by Portugal and Spain, both surging two positions to secure spots in the top ten at sixth and eighth place, respectively.

In a noteworthy development, Venezuela has entered the top 50 after securing victories against Chile and a draw with Brazil during the international break.

While Nigeria faces a setback, the 2022 FIFA World Cup winners, Argentina, continue their reign at the top of the rankings, a position they have held since April. The Lionel Messi-captained side dominates the global rating, with France in second place and England climbing to the trio of teams at the front of the pack. Belgium follows closely in fourth place, having also climbed one spot, while Brazil, despite losing ground, holds onto the fifth position in the top 5.

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