The Nigerian Super Eagles have suffered a shocking fall in the latest FIFA rankings, dropping eight places to the 44th position globally.
This disappointing development was revealed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, when FIFA published its updated list on its official website.
Previously ranked 36th in the world, the Super Eagles now find themselves outside the top 40 for the first time in recent years.
The team’s decline in global standings also saw them slip from fourth to fifth place in Africa.
Algeria Overtakes Nigeria as Morocco Retains Top Spot
Morocco continues to dominate African football, holding on to its position as the number one team on the continent.
Despite maintaining their regional supremacy, the Atlas Lions dropped one place globally, from 13th to 14th.
The fall came after Uruguay’s impressive performance boosted them to 11th in the world rankings.
Morocco’s recent form in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers included two crushing victories, a 5-1 win over Gabon and a 7-0 demolition of Lesotho.
These wins added to their points tally but were not enough to keep their previous global standing.
Meanwhile, Algeria capitalized on Nigeria’s struggles to climb into fourth place in Africa.
Super Eagles’ Poor Form Costs Them Dearly
The Super Eagles’ recent performances have been far from encouraging.
In their last two outings, Nigeria managed only a 1-1 draw against Benin and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Rwanda.
These results led to a significant loss of 21.06 ranking points, pushing them down the FIFA table.
Algeria, in contrast, avoided a similar fate by securing a 5-1 win over Liberia and a goalless draw with Equatorial Guinea.
This ensured they retained their 36th spot globally, despite a slight dip in points.
Fans and Experts Voice Disappointment
Football fans across Nigeria have expressed frustration over the Super Eagles’ decline.
“This is not the Nigeria we know,” lamented John Adebayo, a passionate supporter from Lagos.
“We need serious changes in the team’s management and strategy if we are to reclaim our position.”
Sports analyst, Chidi Okafor, attributed the fall to poor tactical decisions and a lack of cohesion within the squad.
“It’s clear that the team is struggling to find its rhythm,” Okafor explained.
“The players need to step up, and the coaching staff must adopt better strategies.”
Niger and Senegal on the Rise
While Nigeria stumbled, other African nations made significant gains in the rankings.
Niger emerged as the standout performer, climbing nine places to 122nd globally and 34th in Africa.
Their impressive victories over Sudan (4-0) and Ghana (2-1) contributed to a remarkable 31.23-point gain.
Senegal also continued their rise, moving up three places to 17th globally, solidifying their position as Africa’s second-best team.
Key wins against Burkina Faso (1-0) and Burundi (2-0) were pivotal in their ascent.
Calls for Urgent Action
The Super Eagles’ drop has reignited calls for urgent reforms within Nigeria’s football management.
Football legend, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, stressed the need for a comprehensive review of the team’s performance.
“We can’t keep making the same mistakes,” Okocha said in a recent interview.
“Our players have the talent, but they need better guidance and support.”
Looking Ahead
The road ahead for the Super Eagles is undoubtedly challenging.
With the Africa Cup of Nations looming, the team must regroup and regain their form to avoid further embarrassment.
Fans hope that this latest setback will serve as a wake-up call for both players and management.
Nigeria’s next fixtures will be crucial in determining whether the Super Eagles can soar again or continue their downward spiral.
One thing is certain: the nation will be watching closely, expecting nothing short of a revival.
