The Nigerian Super Eagles have dropped one place to 39th in the latest FIFA rankings, released on July 18, 2024. This slight decline comes as the team navigates a transition period, following the resignation of former manager Finidi George.
Despite the drop, the Super Eagles remain within the top five teams on the African continent, with Morocco leading the pack at 14th globally. The Teranga Lions of Senegal follow closely, ranking 19th worldwide, while Mo Salah’s Egypt and Sebastien Haller’s Ivory Coast occupy the third and fourth spots in Africa, respectively.
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The latest rankings reflect the recent success of European teams, with Spain leapfrogging five places to claim the third position globally, following their triumph in the EURO 2024 championship. England, the runners-up, have also improved their standing, moving up to fourth.
Argentina maintains its position at the top of the rankings, having added the 2024 Copa America trophy to their 2022 FIFA World Cup victory. France remains steady in second place, while the top ten is rounded out by Brazil, Netherlands, and Portugal.
In Africa, the top ten includes Tunisia (41), Algeria (46), Cameroon (51), Mali (53), and South Africa (57). The Super Eagles will be looking to improve their ranking as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
The decline in rankings may be a cause for concern for Nigerian fans, but it is essential to note that the team’s performance can be improved with the right leadership and strategy. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is currently searching for a new manager to lead the team, and the right appointment can help the Super Eagles regain their footing on the global stage.
The season progresses and the Super Eagles will face stiff competition from other African teams, and their performance will be closely watched by fans and critics alike. With the right mindset and preparation, the team can bounce back from this slight decline and reclaim their position among the top teams in Africa and the world.