Morocco Hit Historic FIFA Ranking Despite AFCON Heartbreak
Morocco’s journey at the Africa Cup of Nations ended in heartbreak, but history was still made. The Atlas Lions climbed to eighth in the latest FIFA men’s world ranking, their highest position ever, even after losing the final to Senegal in Rabat.
The decider was dramatic. Morocco had the chance to snatch victory with a last-minute penalty, but Brahim Diaz missed after an extraordinary delay. Senegal’s players had walked off in protest of the referee’s decision, forcing Diaz to wait nearly 14 minutes before taking the kick. That moment summed up the tension of the night, and Senegal ultimately celebrated their second AFCON triumph in the last three editions.
For Morocco, the rise in the rankings is a milestone. Their previous best was 10th back in April 1998. Now, as 2022 World Cup semi-finalists, they stand as the highest-ranked Arab nation in history, surpassing Egypt’s ninth-place finish in 2010. Nigeria still hold the record for Africa’s best-ever ranking, fifth in April 1994, but Morocco’s leap to eighth signals a new era of continental strength.
Senegal’s victory brought its own reward. The champions surged seven places to 12th, their highest ranking ever, eclipsing their previous best of 17th achieved in 2024. The AFCON reshaped the landscape for African football, with several nations climbing or falling sharply.
Nigeria, bronze medallists, were among the biggest winners. They gained 79.09 points and jumped 12 places to 26th. Cameroon matched that rise, climbing to 45th. Egypt, who reached the semi-finals, moved up four spots to 31st, just behind Algeria. On the other end, Gabon suffered the steepest drop, losing 44.97 points to fall to 86th, while Equatorial Guinea slid ten places to 107th.
Globally, the top of the table remained unchanged. Spain, reigning European champions, held first place. Argentina, the World Cup holders, stayed second, followed by France, England, Brazil, Portugal, and the Netherlands.
Morocco’s achievement is more than a number. It reflects consistency, resilience, and the ability to compete at the highest level despite setbacks. Senegal’s rise confirms their status as Africa’s most dangerous side, while Nigeria’s resurgence hints at a revival of their historic power. The latest FIFA ranking tells a story of shifting momentum, where African football continues to demand recognition on the global stage.