Nigeria’s Super Falcons clinched the 10th spot among the 32 competing teams in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, as confirmed by FIFA. The tournament concluded on Sunday, August 20, 2023, with Spain triumphing over England’s Lionesses in a 1-0 victory, securing their maiden title.
This achievement marked a historic occasion for Spain, positioning them as the second nation to claim victory in both the Men’s and Women’s World Cups. In the aftermath of the tournament, FIFA undertook the task of ranking the teams.
The ranking process considered each team’s performance during the tournament, with an added layer of complexity. Teams eliminated at the same stage were further evaluated based on their respective exits.
According to the list provided by Fox Soccer, the Super Falcons are proudly placed in the 10th position. This accomplishment is particularly remarkable, as they outperformed all other African participants and even stand higher in the rankings than the United States of America (USA).
The Super Falcons showcased their prowess across four matches in the World Cup. Commencing with a goalless draw against Canada, the Olympic Champions, they then stunned tournament co-hosts Australia with a 3-2 victory. Another goalless draw followed, this time against the Republic of Ireland.
In the Round of 16, the Super Falcons posed as a formidable adversary for the Lionesses on their path to the final. Despite holding the reigning European champions to a goalless standoff after 120 minutes of intense play, the Super Falcons conceded a loss in the penalty shootout.
Both the Super Falcons and the USA faced elimination in the Round of 16. However, the USA earned a higher ranking than Nigeria, securing the ninth spot. This positioning was determined by factors such as goal difference and the number of spot kicks converted, where the USA outperformed Nigeria against Sweden.
The top 10 teams in the tournament include Spain, England, Sweden, Australia, Japan, France, the Netherlands, Colombia, the USA, and the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
Notably, the Super Falcons hold the distinction of being the highest-ranked African team in the competition. Further down the rankings, Morocco claims the 12th position, reigning African champions South Africa stand at 16th, and Zambia holds the 25th position.
As the tournament concludes, some members of the Super Falcons have returned to their home country, while others, such as Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu, have rejoined their respective clubs.