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Fifa’s team ranking for the month of April was recently released. While several countries made a big climb, a few high-profile countries took a stumble. The ranking reflects the recent international games played for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier.
The return of the giants
Algeria, whose coach Christian Gourcuff recently stepped down, are back to the number one spot in Africa after beating Ethiopia 7-1 and then drawing 3-3 with the Walias in Addis Ababa. They remain ranked at 33 in the world. Egypt, who’ve been rebuilding the squad after missing out on three African Cup of Nations in a row, climbed by nine places. Not only are they 44th in the world but they are also back in Africa’s top five, right below Ivory Coast, Ghana and Senegal.
Big surprises
Cape Verde, who conceded two losses against Morocco, fell to the 6th place. The team’s chances to qualify to the African Cup of Nations are now in jeopardy. Another big surprise is that of Nigeria. The Super Eagles, who are now coached by Samson Siasia following Sunday Oliseh’s resignation were held to a draw against Egypt in Kaduna, before losing 1-0 to the Pharaohs of Egypt in Alexandria. They are now ranked at the 67th place in the world and 14th in Africa.
The continent’s biggest climbers are Guinea-Bissau. They ended Kenya’s Afcon qualifying hopes with two victories, moving up 45 places to 102nd in the world.
Top 10 African football teams according to Fifa’s rankings for April (world ranking in brackets):
1. Algeria (33)
2. Ivory Coast (34)
3. Ghana 38)
4. Senegal (43)
5. Egypt (44)
6. Cape Verde (47)
7. Tunisia (47)
8. DR Congo (51)
9. Guinea 58)
10. Congo (59)
SEE ALSO: World’s 20 Richest Football Clubs. See Which Teams Made It To The Top 3.
