FIFA ranking: Argentina retain top spot as Nigeria hold 26th position

World champions Argentina have maintained their position as the number one team in the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday, strengthening their status ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Albiceleste remain at the summit of world football after recording impressive victories in recent international fixtures, while Spain and France occupy second and third places respectively. Spain held on to second position following a draw and a win in their recent outings, while France slipped to third after suffering a defeat before bouncing back with subsequent victories. England and Portugal complete the top five, followed by Brazil in sixth place. Nigeria retained 26th position in the global rankings after a series of mixed results in recent matches. The Super Eagles enjoyed a successful outing at the Unity Cup in London, recording victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica. Related News Somali referee banned by US to officiate European Super Cup — UEFA World Cup: Influencers who record, post content risk deportation, US warns US denies visas to Ivory Coast supporters ahead of World Cup However, the three-time African champions were later held to a 2-2 draw by Poland before suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal in an international friendly. Morocco remains the highest-ranked African nation, occupying seventh place in the world and continuing its impressive rise on the global stage. The latest rankings come as attention shifts to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico and Canada. The tournament, expanded to 48 teams for the first time, is expected to be the biggest in FIFA history. Top 10 FIFA Rankings Argentina Spain France England Portugal Brazil Morocco Netherlands Belgium Germany Olugbenga Ige Olugbenga Ige is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over nine years of professional reporting experience. He is known for his sharp eye for compelling stories and a strong instinct for identifying newsworthy developments. Over the years, Olugbenga has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.

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