Morocco Reigns Supreme as FIFA Rankings Highlight Africa’s Football Giants
As the curtains fall on 2024, Morocco continues to set the pace in African football, wrapping up the year as the continent’s highest-ranked nation in the latest FIFA rankings.
Despite slipping two places globally to 14th, the Atlas Lions maintain their dominance, solidifying their position atop Africa’s football hierarchy.
Angola’s Fairytale Climb—The Biggest Story of 2024
While Morocco held on to their crown, Angola emerged as the Cinderella story of the year. The Palancas Negras soared an astonishing 32 places to claim 85th position globally—the most dramatic improvement by any team worldwide. This meteoric rise reflects Angola’s resurgence, fueled by consistent results and a rejuvenated domestic football structure.
Senegal and Egypt Keep Pace
Hot on Morocco’s heels, Senegal ended 2024 as Africa’s second-best team, retaining 17th place globally. The Teranga Lions, bolstered by star power and recent successes, are poised to challenge Morocco’s reign in 2025.
Meanwhile, Egypt cemented its spot in the top three, climbing to 33rd in the world after a steady three-place improvement since February. The Pharaohs remain a formidable force as they gear up for the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Mixed Fortunes for African Powerhouses
While Algeria moved up six places to 37th, Nigeria held firm in 44th, retaining its spot among Africa’s elite. However, perennial contenders like Tunisia and Ivory Coast experienced setbacks. Tunisia tumbled 12 places to 52nd, and African champions Ivory Coast slipped seven places to 46th after a turbulent year.
Elsewhere, Cameroon narrowly clung to the top 50, ending the year in 49th, while Mali (51st) and South Africa (57th) rounded out the continental top 10.
Angola’s Meteoric Rise Sparks Hopes for 2025
Angola’s unprecedented rise marks a turning point for African football. Their climb to 85th highlights the growing competitiveness across the continent, as teams invest heavily in talent development and tactical discipline.
DR Congo (61st) and Burkina Faso (66th) remain just outside the top 10, while Cape Verde (72nd) and Ghana (77th) continue to push for greater relevance on the international stage.
Countdown to AFCON 2025—A Stage Set for Drama
With the 2025 AFCON in Morocco on the horizon, the FIFA rankings paint a picture of a continent in transition. Established giants like Morocco and Senegal remain formidable, while rising stars like Angola signal a new wave of competition.
As Africa’s football landscape evolves, the rankings underscore both the challenges and opportunities awaiting teams in their pursuit of continental and global glory.
Top 20 African Teams in FIFA Rankings (December 2024):
1. Morocco (14th)
2. Senegal (17th)
3. Egypt (33rd)
4. Algeria (37th)
5. Nigeria (44th)
6. Ivory Coast (46th)
7. Cameroon (49th)
8. Mali (51st)
9. Tunisia (52nd)
10. South Africa (57th)
11. DR Congo (61st)
12. Burkina Faso (66th)
13. Cape Verde (72nd)
14. Ghana (77th)
15. Guinea (78th)
16. Gabon (84th)
17. Angola (85th)
18. Zambia (87th)
19. Uganda (88th)
20. Equatorial Guinea (93rd)
Africa’s Football Battlelines Drawn
As teams gear up for 2025 AFCON and international tournaments like the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
The rankings highlight Africa’s football diversity—where dominant forces look to preserve their status, and emerging nations dream of upsets.
2025 promises fireworks, and the continent’s football faithful are ready for the drama to unfold.
