By Tunde Eludini
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have made a significant leap in the latest Fifa rankings, jumping three spots to 36th in the world.
This upward movement has propelled the three-time African champions back into the continent’s top five teams.
The Super Eagles’ sole match during the review period was a 1-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying win against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.
The scheduled reverse fixture between the two teams was cancelled due to logistical issues, a development being investigated by the Confederation of African Football and a verdict is eagerly anticipated.
Historically, the Super Eagles have experienced fluctuations in Fifa’s rankings since their inception in 1992.
Their highest rank was achieved in April 1994, when they reached 5th globally, just before their first World Cup appearance and after winning the Africa Cup of Nations.
They also held the 7th position in May 1994 and 9th in November and December 2006, as well as January 2007.
However, their lowest point came in November 1999, when they dropped to 82nd.
Other African teams have made significant progress in the rankings. Cameroon has returned to the top 50, ranking 49th after a four-spot jump.
The next Fifa/Coca-Cola World Ranking will be published on 28 November.
