Morocco reach fifth in FIFA rankings to match Nigeria’s 1994 record

Morocco have climbed to fifth in the latest FIFA men’s world rankings, becoming the first African nation in 32 years to break into the world’s top five.

The Atlas Lions’ rise sees them match the historic position achieved by Nigeria in 1994, when the Super Eagles also reached fifth in the FIFA rankings.

Morocco’s latest ranking represents another significant milestone for a national team that has established itself among the leading sides in world football in recent years.

Their progress follows a period of sustained success on the international stage, highlighted by their historic run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African team to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.

The achievement also underlines the growing strength of African football at international level.

Nigeria’s fifth-place ranking in 1994 came during a golden period for the Super Eagles, who had qualified for their first World Cup and went on to reach the last 16 in the United States.

Three decades later, Morocco have now equalled that landmark position, giving Africa a second appearance in the top five of the FIFA rankings.

The Atlas Lions’ rise also comes as Morocco continue to build a strong football infrastructure and develop a squad featuring players competing at some of Europe’s leading clubs.

Their success has further enhanced Morocco’s status as one of Africa’s leading football nations and provides another landmark moment for the continent ahead of future international competitions.

For African football, Morocco’s fifth-place ranking is a notable achievement after more than three decades without a team reaching the top five.

The feat also puts the Atlas Lions in the company of an elite group of national teams at the summit of the global rankings.