Super Falcons Climb in FIFA Rankings but Hit Three-Year Point Low Amidst Preparation Concerns

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have experienced a peculiar shift in the latest FIFA women's rankings, climbing one spot to 36th globally while simultaneously hitting a three-year low in accumulated points. This development, reported by PUNCH Sports Extra, paints a complex picture of the team's standing, where a minor positional gain masks a more significant erosion of performance metrics.

With 1602 points, the Falcons are at their lowest tally since June 2023, a stark contrast to the surge they experienced following the Women's World Cup. Since then, a steady decline has been observed, attributed to fluctuating results and limited international activity. This inactivity is particularly concerning given the looming 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Women's World Cup. The lack of confirmed fixtures, even in the recent April international window, has reportedly frustrated senior players, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade.

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We are not just preparing for the Women’s African Cup of Nations, we are also fighting for World Cup qualification. So, why are we not preparing with the seriousness and intensity this demands?

Ajibade publicly questioned the team's preparation standards, contrasting Nigeria's inactivity with the structured schedules of other national teams. "We are not just preparing for the Women’s African Cup of Nations, we are also fighting for World Cup qualification. So, why are we not preparing with the seriousness and intensity this demands?" she queried. This sentiment highlights a critical gap in the Falcons' readiness, raising questions about the strategic planning for crucial upcoming tournaments. Despite remaining Africa's top-ranked side, the team's current trajectory and preparation challenges suggest a need for urgent attention to ensure they can compete effectively on the international stage.

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Abeg, wetin be all this one