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Nigeria Retain 26th in FIFA World Ranking After March Friendly Matches

Nigeria Retain 26th in FIFA World Ranking After March Friendly Matches

By Elizabeth Ugbo

Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, retained 26th place in the FIFA World Ranking in March 2026 after playing two international friendlies in Nigeria, as released by FIFA, following their win over Iran and draw against Jordan under coach Eric Chelle to maintain 1585.09 points and strengthen their global and African standing ahead of the June international window.


Super Eagles Maintain Position Despite Mixed Results

Nigeria secured a 2–1 victory over Iran in a high-value fixture.
They also played a 2–2 draw against Jordan.

The win against Iran added 5.34 ranking points.
However, the draw against Jordan reduced 1.81 points.

Overall, Nigeria maintained a stable points balance at 1585.09.


Ranking System Explained

FIFA uses the Elo-based ranking system.
This system adjusts points based on several factors.

These include match result, opponent strength, and match importance.
Stronger opponents give higher rewards for wins.

Weaker opponents reduce gains when teams fail to win.


Nigeria’s Progress in Africa and Globally

Nigeria remains third in Africa behind Morocco and Senegal.
They also sit above Algeria, Egypt, and Ivory Coast.

Nigeria climbed 12 places earlier after the 2025 AFCON performance.
They now hold their highest ranking in 16 years.

Their last higher position was 21st in May 2010.


Global Top 10 FIFA Rankings

France now leads the world rankings.
Spain dropped to second place.

Argentina sits in third position globally.
England, Portugal, and Brazil follow closely.

Morocco remains Africa’s top-ranked team and sits eighth globally.

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