Nigeria’s Super Falcons saw a significant rise in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola women’s world ranking, moving eight places up from 40th to 32nd while retaining the number one spot in Africa. The latest ranking was released on Friday and published on the world football governing body’s website.
The Falcons’ rise in the rankings is due to their strong performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Despite being ranked last in Group B, which included Australia, Canada, and the Republic of Ireland, the Falcons finished second and advanced to the round of 16. Unfortunately, they were defeated in the first round by England, losing 4-2 on penalties after going goalless for 120 minutes.
The Falcons were then ranked 10th best team after the conclusion of the tournament. Tournament newcomers Morocco proved to be one of the revelations where they reached the round of 16 as they jumped 14 places to 58th.Africa’s other two participants at the tournament South Africa moved up nine places to 45th and Zambia climbed to 69th.
Sweden, which finished third, has surpassed the United States, which has slid to third place for the first time in history.
The next FIFA women’s world ranking will be released on December 15, 2023.
