Morocco have achieved their highest-ever position in the FIFA men’s world rankings, rising to eighth in the latest standings released on Monday, while Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal climbed to a record 12th.
Despite losing the AFCON final to Senegal in Rabat on Sunday, Morocco moved up three places from their previous ranking. The Atlas Lions’ new position surpasses their earlier best of 10th, recorded in April 1998, and reflects their strong recent performances, including reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup.
Senegal, who defeated Morocco to claim their second Africa Cup of Nations title in three editions, gained seven places to reach their highest-ever ranking. Their previous best position was 17th, achieved in 2024.
AFCON results triggered significant shifts among African teams. Nigeria, who finished third, gained the most points and climbed 12 places to 26th, a rise matched by Cameroon, now ranked 45th. Egypt also improved, moving up four places to 31st after reaching the semi-finals.
At the other end of the scale, Gabon suffered the biggest points loss and dropped to 86th following a group-stage exit, while Equatorial Guinea recorded the steepest fall, slipping 10 places to 107th.
Globally, European champions Spain retained the top spot, ahead of World Cup holders Argentina. France, England, Brazil, Portugal and the Netherlands completed the unchanged top seven.