African football continues to make progress on the international stage. In the latest FIFA World Rankings released in October, several national teams from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have made significant gains, while Morocco retains its position as the continent’s top-ranked nation.
With 1,805.34 points, the Atlas Lions remain seventh in the world following two victories in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and a draw in a friendly match.
Behind Morocco, Senegal remain firmly in second place in Africa, holding on to 18th position globally. Egypt, meanwhile, have dropped one place to 25th in the world.
One of the most notable developments is Africa’s growing presence in the world’s Top 50. The continent now has ten representatives, thanks in particular to strong performances by Mali and South Africa.
Mali’s Eagles have climbed six places to 47th in the world, while South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have made an identical leap to reach 48th position.
These gains further strengthen Africa’s representation among the world’s leading football nations. With ten teams in the Top 50, CAF continues to expand its presence alongside UEFA, which has 24 representatives, and CONMEBOL, with eight.
Rwanda Records Africa’s Biggest Climb
The impact of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers is also reflected throughout the rankings, with several African national teams making substantial gains.
Rwanda have recorded the continent’s biggest improvement, climbing nine places to 119th in the world. Guinea-Bissau have moved up eight positions to 124th, while Gambia have gained seven places to reach 109th.
Botswana, now ranked 141st, and Mozambique, in 98th position, have also improved their standings, climbing six and five places respectively.
According to FIFA, the latest rankings are based on 338 international matches played since the conclusion of the World Cup on July 19. The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have played a significant role in reshaping the positions of several African teams.
The latest developments highlight the growing strength of African football in the global rankings, with Morocco continuing to lead the continent and an increasing number of African nations establishing themselves among the world’s top teams.