The Super Falcons of Nigeria have maintained their position as Africa’s top women’s football team and 36th in the world in the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday. Despite not playing any matches between December and now, the nine-time African champions held their ground, while some of their continental rivals slipped in the global standings.
Reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions South Africa remain second in Africa but dropped four places globally to 54th. Morocco, ranked third in Africa, sits in 60th place worldwide, while Zambia fell two spots to 64th but remains the continent’s fourth-best team.
The rankings come just months before the 2024 WAFCON tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 25 to 26. The Super Falcons will aim to reclaim the continental title after finishing fourth in the 2022 edition. However, they will face stiff competition from South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia, all eager to challenge Nigeria’s dominance.
Globally, the United States continues to lead the rankings, followed by reigning world champions Spain in second place. Germany and England retain their third and fourth positions, respectively, while Japan climbed to fifth, pushing Sweden down to sixth.
On the African front, Kenya recorded one of the biggest gains, jumping seven places to 142nd. Meanwhile, Tunisia suffered the steepest fall, dropping 11 spots to 89th after losing 43.79 points. Djibouti achieved its highest-ever ranking, moving up to 195th.
The next FIFA women’s world ranking will be released on June 12, giving the Super Falcons an opportunity to improve their standing ahead of the highly anticipated WAFCON tournament.
