The Super Eagles have taken a step backwards in the latest FIFA men’s world rankings released on Thursday, July 10, 2025, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria now sit 44th globally, dropping one spot from 43rd—their previous position. Among African countries, however, their standing remains unchanged.
The team still ranks fifth on the continent, behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria.
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The shift in Nigeria’s ranking follows their 1-1 draw against Russia in June, a result that didn’t help their points tally much. FIFA’s ranking system places low weight on friendlies, so the Super Eagles earned minimal points from the outcome.
As reported by Guardian Nigeria, the July rankings update hurt teams that failed to make competitive gains. Norway, for instance, benefited from a strong win over Italy in World Cup qualifiers, a match that carried higher FIFA importance.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s global slide comes as some other nations surged in the latest rankings. Norway, for instance, climbed five places to 33rd, making one of the biggest leaps this month.
Fellow African side Zambia also made headlines by jumping five spots to 83rd, showing renewed momentum in their rebuild.
Nigeria’s highest-ever FIFA ranking remains 5th, achieved in April 1994, a golden era for Nigerian football. It was the highest FIFA ranking position ever achieved by an African football team.
As it stands, the Super Eagles must start gathering wins that actually count. A solid run in competitive fixtures is the only way to climb back up the global ladder. The next FIFA ranking release is scheduled for September 18, 2025.
