Morocco climbed to a record eighth place in the latest FIFA men’s world rankings, released this week following the Africa Cup of Nations, remaining the continent’s highest-ranked team despite losing the final to newly crowned champions Senegal.
Senegal, which defeated Morocco 1–0 in extra time to lift the AFCON title, surged to 12th globally, its best position to date. The Lions of Teranga gained significant ranking points from their tournament run, but Morocco’s consistent results over a longer competitive cycle allowed the Atlas Lions to retain a higher overall standing.
FIFA’s ranking system weighs match results over time, factoring in opponent strength and competition importance, meaning a single tournament victory does not automatically translate into a higher global position than a rival with a stronger cumulative record.
Behind the top two African sides, Nigeria sits third on the continent at around 26th globally, followed by Algeria and Egypt inside the global top 35. Ivory Coast, Cameroon and Tunisia round out the next tier as Africa continues to strengthen its footprint among the world’s competitive national teams.
In East Africa, progress remains gradual. Uganda is the region’s highest-ranked side at around 88th globally, with Tanzania near 110th and Kenya just outside the top 110. Burundi is ranked around 147th worldwide, reflecting ongoing rebuilding efforts and limited exposure to high-level international competition.
Regional football officials say improved youth development, stronger domestic leagues and more international fixtures will be key to narrowing the gap with the continent’s elite sides.
Globally, European powers continue to dominate the top of the table, with Spain retaining the No. 1 spot, followed closely by Argentina and France.
The next FIFA ranking update is expected later this year as teams shift focus toward World Cup qualifying campaigns and continental competitions.
