Morocco, Senegal and Egypt continue to set the pace in African football, according to the latest FIFA rankings released on 12 May 2025, as nations gear up for next month’s crucial World Cup qualifiers.
With less than a month remaining before the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in June, FIFA’s latest standings provide a snapshot of the current hierarchy across the continent.
While not directly influencing qualification paths, the rankings offer an important barometer of form and consistency among Africa’s top teams.
Morocco, sitting 12th globally, remains the highest-ranked team in Africa. The Atlas Lions have built on their recent international success with a steady stream of positive results, reinforcing their reputation as the continent’s most formidable side.
Close behind are Senegal, who hold 19th place in the global rankings, buoyed by a solid core of experienced players and consistent performances in both qualifiers and friendlies.
Egypt rounds out the African top three at 32nd worldwide. Though slightly behind the top two, the Pharaohs remain a force to be reckoned with, having re-established a level of stability and structure in recent outings.
Just outside the top trio, Algeria has climbed to 36th place in the world rankings, a position that reflects the team’s promising form in recent months.
With continued momentum, the Desert Foxes could soon challenge the continent’s leading pack. Their rise has been closely monitored as a potential shift in the balance of African football power.
The list also highlights the steady progress of several other traditional heavyweights. Ivory Coast (41st globally) and Nigeria (43rd) remain consistent contenders, while Tunisia (49th) continues to punch above its weight with disciplined, tactical play.
Cameroon and Mali, ranked 50th and 53rd respectively, round out the African top ten, marking their status as dangerous outsiders in the run-up to qualification.
Further down the rankings, South Africa (56th), DR Congo (61st), and Burkina Faso (64th) also remain within striking distance, with each side capable of springing surprises in the months ahead.
Here is the updated list of Africa’s top 20 teams according to the FIFA rankings as of 12 May 2025:
1. Morocco (12th globally)
2. Senegal (19th)
3. Egypt (32nd)
4. Algeria (36th)
5. Ivory Coast (41st)
6. Nigeria (43rd)
7. Tunisia (49th)
8. Cameroon (50th)
9. Mali (53rd)
10. South Africa (56th)
11. DR Congo (61st)
12. Burkina Faso (64th)
13. Cape Verde (72nd)
14. Ghana (76th)
15. Gabon (79th)
16. Guinea (82nd)
17. Angola (87th)
18. Zambia (88th)
19. Uganda (89th)
20. Equatorial Guinea (92nd)
While the rankings are constantly evolving, they serve as a strong reflection of the current footballing climate in Africa.
As the continent’s top sides prepare for the all-important World Cup qualifiers, the list underscores the competitive depth and rising standards across the region.
The road to North America 2026 promises to be fiercely contested. With established powers holding firm and several challengers showing signs of resurgence, African football is poised for a thrilling chapter in its ongoing journey.
