The Super Eagles’ impressive AFCON campaign has translated into a major leap on the global stage, with Nigeria climbing to 26th in the world and third in Africa in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings released on Monday.

Nigeria jumped 12 places from 38th to 26th following a commanding run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the team finished third and reasserted itself among Africa’s elite.

The Super Eagles recorded the highest points gain in the rankings update, amassing +79.09 points after a string of eye-catching performances at the continental tournament.

Under head coach Éric Chelle, Nigeria won six of their seven matches, dispatching Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Mozambique, Algeria, and Egypt, before suffering a narrow semi-final defeat to hosts Morocco via penalties.

The latest ranking places Nigeria as Africa’s third-best side, trailing only AFCON champions Senegal, who sit 12th globally, and Morocco, ranked eighth in the world.

Algeria and Egypt follow Nigeria in fourth and fifth positions, respectively on the African standings.

On the global scene, Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Morocco, Belgium, and Germany currently occupy the world’s top 10 positions, underscoring the competitive landscape Nigeria is now pushing to rejoin at the highest level.