The Super Falcons have ended 2024 as Africa’s best-ranked women’s football team, holding on to the top spot in FIFA’s rankings. They remain 36th in the world, unchanged from their previous position.
FIFA’s latest rankings, published on Friday, confirmed the nine-time African champions’ dominance on the continent. South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, and Ghana trail them, ranked 53rd, 61st, 62nd, and 66th globally.
The Falcons’ recent performances, including wins against Algeria in friendly matches and a narrow loss to France, were not enough to improve their global standing. Their highest-ever FIFA ranking remains 23rd, achieved in 2004 and 2005.
This year’s ranking caps a tough year for the team, highlighted by their struggle at the Paris Olympics. They exited in the group stage after losses to Brazil, Spain, and Japan but showed moments of brilliance, notably from players Rasheedat Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Despite Olympic setbacks, the Super Falcons continue to dominate African women’s football. Other notable African teams include Cameroon and Ivory Coast, ranked 68th and 71st in the world.
As the year ends, the Falcons look ahead to improving their global ranking in 2025 with preparations for major tournaments underway.
