Nigeria may not be involved at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the Super Eagles still have reason to monitor events closely as several nations continue to gain ground on them in the FIFA rankings.
The three-time African champions failed to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, they have benefitted from results elsewhere, moving from 26th to 24th in the live FIFA rankings despite not playing a match.
That rise has been aided by disappointing performances from teams such as Portugal, Senegal, Belgium, Algeria and Ecuador, all of whom have dropped valuable ranking points during the competition.
Australia, Egypt among rising challengers
While some nations have slipped, others have taken advantage of strong World Cup performances to close the gap on Nigeria.
Australia are now ranked 25th in the live standings after an encouraging start to the tournament. The Socceroos defeated Türkiye 2-0 in their opening match before suffering a 2-0 defeat to co-hosts United States.
They remain in contention for a place in the Round of 32 and could overtake Nigeria if they defeat Paraguay in their final group match and continue their progress in the tournament.
Egypt have also boosted their ranking prospects. The Pharaohs climbed to 26th after drawing 1-1 with Belgium and securing a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand, their first-ever World Cup win.
Led by captain Mohamed Salah, Egypt sit top of Group G with four points. Another positive result against Iran could see them move ahead of the Super Eagles.
Norway and Canada continue upward trend
Norway have enjoyed one of the biggest ranking gains so far, rising to 27th following a commanding 4-1 win over Iraq in their opening game.
With Erling Haaland in fine form, the Scandinavians are well positioned to collect more ranking points if they maintain their momentum against Senegal and beyond.
Canada, meanwhile, have emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise packages. The co-hosts climbed to 28th after drawing with Bosnia and Herzegovina and thrashing Qatar 6-0.
Jonathan David’s hat-trick inspired Canada to their first-ever World Cup victory, leaving them top of Group B with four points.
Although Nigeria currently remain ahead of all four nations, continued World Cup success for Australia, Egypt, Norway and Canada could soon see the Super Eagles lose ground in the global rankings.