By Victor Kanayo
First African nation to reach the semi-final stage at the World Cup – Morocco, and Africa Cup of Nations defending Champions – Senegal, have remained number one and two in the continent in the October edition of the FIFA ranking.
This is as Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt occupy the third, fourth and fifth position on the continent respectively.
Super Eagles et al
However, the three time African champion, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have maintained their sixth position in the continent and are 40th in the world ranking released by the world’s football governing body on Thursday, October 26, 2023.
The Super Eagles had dropped one spot from 39th to 40th position in the previous ranking released on September 21 despite trashing São Tomé and Principe 6-0 in their final 2023 AFCON qualifier.
The Nigerian side, however, retained their position in the latest world ranking after drawing 2-2 against Saudi Arabia and defeating Mozambique 3-2 during the last international break.
Nigeria’s Group C opponent in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Lesotho dropped from 151 to 153 position in the latest rankings while South Africa and Rwanda suffered slight drops in the ranking.
South Africa dropped from 63 to 64 while Rwanda also dropped from 139 to 140.
Super Eagles other group opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Benin Republic and Zimbabwe retained their positions in 93rd and 125th positions respectively.
Outside Africa
According to the world football governing body, there are no changes in the top ten as reigning World Cup winners Argentina remains the number one country in the world, followed by 2022 World Cup runners-up France in second position and Brazil third.
The Three Lions of England are the fourth best team with Belgium completing the top five.
The next world ranking will be released on November 30, 2023.
