The Super Eagles of Nigeria have concluded 2024 with their worst FIFA ranking in six years, standing at 44th globally and fifth in Africa. This marks a significant drop in form for the three-time African champions, who began the year with promise after reaching the final of the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, earning them a respectable 28th place ranking earlier in the year.
Although they secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco by topping their group, their struggles in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers have been a major setback. The Super Eagles failed to win any of their four qualifying matches, leaving them second from bottom in their group.
In 2024, the team played 18 matches, achieving nine wins, four draws, and five losses. Despite moments of brilliance, inconsistency has marred their campaign, raising concerns about their prospects in upcoming competitions.
Editorial
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The Super Eagles’ dip to their lowest FIFA ranking since 2018 is a sobering reality for Nigerian football. While moments of success, such as reaching the 2023 AFCON final and securing 2025 qualification, offered glimpses of promise, the team’s inconsistency in the World Cup qualifiers exposed fundamental weaknesses.
We believe this ranking should serve as a wake up call for stakeholders to address pressing issues such as team cohesion, tactical deficiencies, and squad selection. The Super Eagles have a rich history and immense talent at their disposal, but without strategic planning and effective management, their potential remains underutilized.
Looking ahead, the focus must shift to rebuilding confidence, fostering a winning mentality, and regaining the dominance Nigeria once enjoyed on the global stage. As passionate fans, we urge the team to rise to the challenge and restore the pride of Nigerian football.
Did You Know?
- The Super Eagles’ last major FIFA ranking drop was in 2018 when they also failed to qualify for the World Cup.
- Nigeria has won the Africa Cup of Nations three times, with their most recent victory in 2013.
- The team’s highest ever FIFA ranking was 5th, achieved in 1994 following a successful World Cup campaign.
- Nigeria has qualified for six FIFA World Cups, making it one of Africa’s most consistent representatives.
- Poor World Cup qualifying campaigns have often coincided with dips in the Super Eagles’ FIFA rankings.
