By Adegboyega Adeleye
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have retained 26th position in the latest FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday following an encouraging June international window under head coach Eric Chelle.
The three-time African champions remain the third-highest ranked team in Africa despite a mixed run of results that included victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica, a draw against Poland and a narrow defeat to Portugal.
Nigeria impressed at the Unity Cup in London, defeating Zimbabwe 2-0 before cruising past Jamaica 3-0 to lift the invitational tournament. Chelle’s side then continued their preparations with a 2-2 draw away to Poland before suffering a 2-1 loss to Portugal in Leiria on Wednesday night.
Despite the defeat to the UEFA Nations League champions, the Super Eagles maintained their position in the global rankings, reflecting the consistency they have shown since Chelle took charge.
The latest rankings provide further encouragement for Chelle and his players as they continue preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and other international assignments.
Morocco remain Africa’s highest-ranked nation and are seventh in the world, while Senegal stay ahead of Nigeria in second place on the continent. Algeria and Egypt complete Africa’s top five teams.
At the top of the global rankings, reigning world champions Argentina reclaimed first place ahead of the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi’s side moved back to the summit following recent victories over Honduras and Iceland.
Spain occupy second place, while France are third after a mixed international window. England and Portugal complete the top five.
FIFA is expected to release its next men’s world rankings on July 20, shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Top 10 FIFA World Rankings
- Argentina
- Spain
- France
- England
- Portugal
- Brazil
- Morocco
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Germany
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