Spain have returned to the top of the FIFA men’s world rankings following their 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph, while Morocco climbed to a record sixth place, the highest position in the Atlas Lions’ history. Despite the milestone, Nigeria remains the highest-ranked African nation in FIFA rankings history.
The latest rankings, released after Luis de la Fuente’s side dethroned Argentina, who dropped to second, after beating the South Americans 1-0 in extra time in the final. France and England remained third and fourth respectively.
Morocco’s rise to sixth marked the best ranking ever achieved by the North African nation, surpassing its previous record and reinforcing its emergence as one of world football’s leading sides after another impressive 2026 World Cup campaign.
However, Nigeria continues to hold Africa’s all-time FIFA ranking record.
The Super Eagles reached fifth place in April 1994, a position that remains the highest ever attained by an African country since the FIFA World Ranking system was introduced.
Morocco’s new career-best of sixth, achieved in July 2026, leaves the Atlas Lions just one place behind that historic Nigerian benchmark.
Spain’s return to the summit follows a dominant World Cup campaign that culminated in victory over Argentina in the final. The title ended Argentina’s reign at the top of the rankings, although Lionel Scaloni’s side remains among the world’s elite after reaching a second consecutive World Cup final.
