Is the giant falling? Nigeria’s Super Eagles drop out of Africa’s top five

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have long been regarded as one of Africa’s football giants, but the latest FIFA rankings paint a worrying picture, Soccernet.ng reports.

The team has slipped to sixth in Africa—although it rose to 43rd in the world—dropping out of the continent’s top five following their recent international break.

With Morocco (12th), Senegal (19th), Egypt (32nd), Algeria (36th), and Côte d’Ivoire (41st) all ranked higher, it is best to ask if the formidable Super Eagles of Nigeria are losing their status as a dominant force in Africa.

Latest FIFA Ranking:

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are currently 6th in Africa and 46th in the world. We have dropped from top 5 in Africa.

Morocco are number 1 in Africa and number 12 in the world. Senegal are 19th in the world and second in Africa.

The giant is falling. pic.twitter.com/kilfKkwhbn

— Adepoju Tobi Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) April 3, 2025

Super Eagles Drop: A Temporary Setback?
The rankings are based on results, and while Nigeria’s recent form has not been disastrous—two wins and two draws in the last four matches—the team’s inability to secure convincing victories against lower-ranked opponents has contributed to their drop.

Meanwhile, Côte d’Ivoire’s recent AFCON triumph has propelled them ahead, while Morocco and Senegal continue to dominate with consistent performances on the global stage.

Super Eagles at the 2023 AFCON tournament [ Photo by Adeniyi Muyiwa / Credit: Soccernet Media Limited]Although, the Super Eagles impressed in their 2025 AFCON qualifiers, their performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers have been far from inspiring.

The NFF’s Role in the Downward Trend
A key factor behind Nigeria’s struggles is the lack of stability at the managerial level. In the last two years, the 2023 AFCON champions have played under four coaches.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Football Federation’s (NFF) poor handling of key appointments have left the team without clear direction. In contrast, Morocco and Senegal have invested in long-term managerial projects, and they have surely reaped the rewards.

Also, Nigeria continues to rely heavily on established stars without a structured plan for the next generation. The result is a team that is gradually losing its competitive edge.

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Can the Super Eagles Bounce Back?
All is not lost. Nigeria still boasts a talented squad, including Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Wilfred Ndidi, and a host of others.  But talent alone is not enough.

Super Eagles team [Photo credit/X]The NFF must take urgent steps to stabilise the team, ensure consistency in coaching, and prioritize youth development.

With the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers and AFCON tournaments, Nigeria must use this ranking drop as a wake-up call. If the right decisions are made now, the Super Eagles can reclaim their place at the top.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.