September 18, (THEWILL) — Nigeria’s Super Eagles have fallen one position to 45th in the latest FIFA World Ranking released on Thursday. The team now holds 1,483.86 points, with Côte d’Ivoire overtaking them to claim 44th place in the global standings.
The ranking decline stems from disappointing results during the recent World Cup qualifying window. A 1-1 draw against South Africa on September 9, particularly damaged their points tally, with an own goal and late equaliser, leaving qualification hopes more precarious than before.
Selection difficulties and fitness concerns among key attacking players have hampered the team’s ability to convert opportunities into meaningful results. These issues contributed to the current downturn in form.
The drop means Nigeria no longer ranks among Africa’s top five teams according to FIFA. They now occupy sixth position in the continental hierarchy, falling further behind established powers, Morocco and Senegal, who maintain stronger positions in the global table.
Lower FIFA rankings carry practical consequences for future tournament seedings and draw procedures. With crucial fixtures against Lesotho away and Benin at home approaching, the Super Eagles face minimal room for error in their World Cup qualification campaign.
Coach Éric Chelle, appointed earlier this year to bring tactical stability, faces mounting pressure following recent results. There remain expectations for immediate improvement in both performance and outcomes without which the potential for an early exit will only gain momentum.
The October conclusion of CAF qualifying presents a narrow window for recovery. Positive results in remaining matches could restore the team’s ranking position, while further dropped points would compound both statistical standing and World Cup qualification prospects.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
