The Super Falcons of Nigeria have maintained their 36th position in the latest FIFA World Rankings, released on Friday, June 14, 2024. The nine time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions continue to be the top ranked team in Africa.
In the upcoming Olympic games in Paris, the Super Falcons’ Group C opponents, Spain and Japan, hold the first and seventh positions respectively in the global rankings. Brazil, also in Group C, has moved up one spot to ninth.
Zambia, Africa’s other representative at the Olympic games, is now ranked 64th. The last significant improvement for the Super Falcons was in August 2023, when they jumped eight places from 40th to 32nd, following their impressive performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Despite being in a challenging group with hosts Australia, Olympic champions Canada, and debutants Republic of Ireland, the Falcons advanced to the round of 16, eventually losing to England in a penalty shootout. The next FIFA/Coca Cola Women’s World Ranking will be published on August 16, 2024.
Editorial
The Super Falcons’ consistent ranking at 36th in the FIFA World Rankings reflects both their enduring dominance in African football and the challenges they face on the global stage. While their position as the top team in Africa remains uncontested, the upcoming Olympic games present an opportunity for further advancement and international recognition.
The Falcons’ journey to the round of 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup was a testament to their resilience and skill. Navigating a group with top-tier teams like Australia and Canada, and overcoming the odds to progress to the knockout stage, highlighted the team’s potential. This achievement brought a significant boost in the rankings, demonstrating the impact of strong performances in major tournaments.
However, maintaining this momentum is crucial. The competition at the Olympic games will be fierce, with Group C featuring top-ranked teams like Spain, Brazil, and Japan. The Falcons will need to leverage their experience and build on their past successes to make a significant impact.
For Nigeria, the continuous development and support of women’s football are essential. The Super Falcons have consistently shown they can compete at the highest levels, but to break into the top echelons of the FIFA rankings, a strategic approach focusing on player development, coaching, and infrastructure is necessary.
As fans and stakeholders, we must rally behind the Super Falcons, providing them with the support and resources needed to excel. Their success not only brings national pride but also inspires the next generation of female footballers in Nigeria.
The upcoming Olympic games offer a platform for the Falcons to showcase their talents and strive for a medal. Their performance will not only influence their global ranking but also shape the future of Nigerian women’s football. We look forward to seeing the Super Falcons soar to new heights and achieve greater milestones.
Did You Know?
- The Super Falcons have won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations a record nine times, the most by any team.
- Nigeria’s women’s team reached the round of 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, showcasing their competitive edge.
- Spain, Brazil, and Japan, the Falcons’ opponents in Group C of the Olympics, are all ranked in the top 10 globally.
- The Super Falcons’ highest ever FIFA ranking was 23rd, achieved in 2003.
- The FIFA Women’s World Ranking system was introduced in 2003, with rankings updated quarterly based on team performances in international matches.
