The recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has triggered a major reshuffle in the January 2026 FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Rankings, with Nigeria’s Super Eagles emerging as one of the tournament’s biggest winners.
Following an impressive campaign in Morocco, Nigeria climbed 12 places to 26th in the world, marking one of the most significant jumps among elite international sides.
The rise comes on the back of a resilient AFCON run that ended with the Super Eagles claiming the bronze medal after a hard-fought victory over Egypt, reinforcing their status as one of Africa’s most consistent footballing forces.
Nigeria Reclaims Continental Authority
Nigeria’s surge sees them leapfrog several traditional rivals, including Algeria, Ghana, and South Africa, to establish themselves as Africa’s third-highest ranked team.
The new ranking underlines the Super Eagles’ resurgence and tactical maturity, particularly after navigating a tournament filled with controversy, pressure, and elite opposition.
Historic Highs for AFCON Finalists
While Nigeria recorded the most dramatic climb among top African nations, AFCON 2025 finalists Senegal and Morocco also reached historic milestones.
Morocco – World Rank: 8th (+3)
Despite the heartbreak of losing the final on home soil, the Atlas Lions achieved a landmark feat by breaking into the global top 10 for the first time since 1998.
Their new position represents Morocco’s highest FIFA ranking in history, cementing their status as a global football powerhouse.
Senegal – World Rank: 12th (+7)
Fresh off reclaiming the African crown, Senegal surged seven places to 12th in the world, also the highest ranking ever recorded by the Teranga Lions.
Their AFCON triumph has firmly restored them to the summit of African football.
A New African “Big Three” Emerges
The latest rankings confirm a reshaped continental hierarchy:
- Senegal
- Morocco
- Nigeria
This trio now forms Africa’s clear leading pack, with Nigeria positioned as the strongest challenger behind the two finalists.
Other Notable African Movements
- Cameroon mirrored Nigeria’s rise, climbing 12 places after reaching the quarterfinals.
- South Africa currently sits 60th in the world.
- Ghana, following another disappointing tournament, has dropped to 72nd, reflecting their continued struggles on the international stage.
Global Top Remains Unchanged
At the summit of world football, there was no movement:
- Spain – 1st
- Argentina – 2nd
- France – 3rd
Top 10 Ranked African Teams (January 2026)
- Morocco – 8th
- Senegal – 12th
- Nigeria – 26th
- Algeria – 28th
- Egypt – 31st
- Côte d’Ivoire – 37th
- Cameroon – 45th
- Tunisia – 47th
- DR Congo – 48th
- Mali – 54th
Conclusion
AFCON 2025 may be remembered for controversy, but its impact on African football’s global standing is undeniable. For Nigeria, the rankings validate a renewed era of competitiveness and belief. For Senegal and Morocco, they mark historic peaks.
African football has shifted, and the world rankings now reflect it.
