The Super Eagles of Nigeria have made an impressive leap in the latest FIFA rankings, released on Thursday, February 10, 2022, rising four places to secure the 32nd spot globally and third in Africa. This achievement, despite an early exit from the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon, reflects the team’s strong performance and resilience on the continental stage.
Strong AFCON Showing Boosts Ranking
Nigeria’s climb in the rankings follows a commendable performance during the AFCON group stages, where the Super Eagles, under interim coach Austin Eguavoen, dominated with a perfect record, earning all nine available points against Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea-Bissau. “Our group stage performance showed our potential to compete with the best,” Eguavoen noted, highlighting the team’s commanding display. Despite a hard-fought loss to Tunisia in the Round of 16, Nigeria’s efforts have been recognized by FIFA, propelling them ahead of several African rivals.
The updated rankings place Nigeria behind only Senegal, the AFCON champions, and Morocco, securing the third spot on the continent. The top ten African teams include Egypt, Tunisia, Cameroon, Algeria, Mali, and Ivory Coast, in that order. Nigeria’s rise to 32nd globally and third in Africa underscores their growing stature as they prepare for critical World Cup qualifiers.
Seeding Advantage for World Cup Playoffs
The Super Eagles’ strong ranking has earned them a seeded position in the draw for the final World Cup playoff round in Africa, where they will face Ghana’s Black Stars in March 2022. Nigeria’s 32nd global ranking places them 29 spots above Ghana, providing a psychological edge as they aim for a spot in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. “This ranking is a morale booster for the team as we face Ghana,” an NFF official stated, emphasizing the importance of the team’s momentum.
While the FIFA ranking does not directly impact World Cup qualification, it reflects Nigeria’s competitive form and boosts confidence as they approach the crucial two-legged playoff. The Super Eagles’ recent performances, including their AFCON group stage dominance, signal their readiness to challenge for a place on the global stage.
Global and African Context
Globally, Belgium continues to lead the FIFA rankings, followed closely by Brazil, France, Argentina, and England. European powerhouses Italy, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, and the Netherlands complete the top ten. In Africa, Senegal’s AFCON triumph has solidified their position as the continent’s top team, with Morocco maintaining a strong second place. Nigeria’s ascent to third, overtaking Egypt and Tunisia, highlights their resurgence after a challenging AFCON campaign.
The Super Eagles’ ability to push Tunisia to the limit in the knockout stage, despite the eventual defeat, showcased their potential to compete with Africa’s elite. This ranking improvement serves as a testament to the team’s hard work and strategic approach under Eguavoen’s leadership.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup Qualifiers
As Nigeria prepares for the high-stakes playoff against Ghana, the latest FIFA rankings provide a timely boost for players and fans alike. The Super Eagles are eager to build on their AFCON performance and secure qualification for the World Cup, a stage where they have made notable appearances in the past. “Our focus is on delivering results against Ghana and bringing pride to Nigeria,” Eguavoen said, rallying his squad for the challenge ahead.
The ranking climb also reflects the NFF’s efforts to strengthen the team, with recent additions like Ademola Lookman, who was cleared by FIFA to represent Nigeria on the same day the rankings were announced. These developments signal a bright future for the Super Eagles as they aim to reclaim their status among Africa’s football giants.
A Source of National Pride
Nigeria’s rise to 32nd in the world and third in Africa is a moment of pride for fans, who see the Super Eagles as a symbol of national unity and resilience. With the World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, the team’s improved ranking serves as a reminder of their potential to shine on the global stage. As the nation rallies behind Eguavoen and his squad, the hope is for continued success and a triumphant return to the World Cup.
