Cote d’Ivoire’s national football team has soared in the latest FIFA rankings, a testament to their triumphant journey at the recently concluded African Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Elephants, playing on home turf, not only captivated fans with their exhilarating performances but also clinched a monumental ascent, leaping ten places to stand proudly at 39th in the world.
This significant achievement came in the wake of the FIFA Men’s World Ranking update, unveiled just four days after AFCON’s grand finale, highlighting the dynamic shifts within the international football scene, particularly among African contenders.
The ripple effects of the tournament have been profound, with the rankings revealing substantial progress for teams from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regions. While the global top ten remained unaltered, the narrative of ascent was passionately scripted by nations like Nigeria, who, following a valiant effort that saw them finish as runners-up, climbed 14 places to 28th. Yet, it was Angola’s astonishing rise, surging 24 spots to 93rd, that underscored the unpredictable and thrilling nature of football.
Senegal, despite bowing out in the round of 16 to Cote d’Ivoire, achieved a historic milestone by reaching their highest-ever ranking at 17th, a clear indicator of their prowess and potential. Other nations such as Equatorial Guinea, South Africa, Cabo Verde, Namibia, and Mali also saw significant improvements in their rankings, demonstrating the competitive spirit and growing stature of African football on the global stage.
The latest FIFA rankings not only celebrate the successes of these teams but also set the stage for upcoming challenges, including World Cup qualifiers and future editions of the AFCON. As the football world turns its gaze towards the next ranking release scheduled for April 4, the achievements of Cote d’Ivoire and their African counterparts remain a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the continent’s rising influence and enduring passion for the beautiful game.
The African Top 20 in the FIFA rankings
1-Morocco (12th)
2-Senegal (17th)
3-Nigeria (28th)
4-Egypt (36th)
5-Cote d’Ivoire (39th)
6-Tunisia (41st)
7-Algeria (43rd)
8-Mali (47th)
9-Cameroon (51st)
10-South Africa (58th)
11-Burkina Faso (61st)
12-DR Congo (63rd)
13-Cape Verde (65th)
14-Ghana (67th)
15-Guinea (76th)
16-Equatorial Guinea (79th)
17-Gabon (84th)
18-Zambia (87th)
19-Uganda (92nd)
20-Angola (93rd)
