According to the final FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday, the Super Eagles concluded 2024 ranked 44th globally, their lowest position in six years.
This drop marks a sharp decline from the 28th place Nigeria held at the start of the year, following their strong performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they emerged as runners-up to host Cote D’Ivoire in February.
Throughout 2024, the Eagles played 15 matches, recording nine wins—including an awarded victory against Libya—four draws, and five losses. However, their inconsistency, particularly in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, significantly impacted their ranking.
Nigeria currently sits fifth in their qualification group of six teams, making their chances of qualifying for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico uncertain.
Globally, Argentina retained its top position, followed by France, Spain, England, and Brazil.
In Africa, Morocco leads at 13th, with Senegal (17th) and Algeria (33rd) completing the top three.
Nigeria, once fourth in Africa earlier this year, has now dropped to fifth. This ranking matches their December 2018 position, highlighting a challenging year for the team.
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