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Global Ranking Shake-Up: Morocco Solidifies Dominance, Senegal Takes the Hit

24 March 2026

Global Ranking Shake-Up: Morocco Solidifies Dominance, Senegal Takes the Hit
Morocco celebrates after the AFCON 2025 final decision.

Double blow for Teranga Lions

World Rankings Update

This update followed the final's official outcomes and subsequent deliberations, crowning Morocco as champion over Senegal, with Morocco declared the 3-0 winner by walkover after Senegal withdrew, a decision intended to settle a controversial match and bring closure.

According to the new rankings published on FIFA's site, Morocco strengthened its point tally, maintaining eighth globally and leading the Arab and African blocs, reinforcing its status among football's global elite.

Senegal's Ranking and Legal Crosswinds

In contrast, Senegal dropped to fourteenth worldwide after losing several points following the final, a setback that sparked debate over the fairness of the process and the impact on West African football.

(Read also) Will the 2025 Africa Cup final between Morocco and Senegal be replayed? A legal expert weighs in; fans debate contracts and refereeing.

The African Football Confederation's appeals committee ruled Senegal's withdrawal, awarding Morocco the title, marking a second continental crown for the Atlas Lions and sparking reactions from players, coaches, and federation officials.

In a new twist, Senegal's federation announced it has taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, potentially reshuffling the legal deck and prompting a dramatic courtroom drama.

And the official FIFA ranking authorities confirmed Morocco's rise as a leading force in North Africa's football revival.

Punchline 1: Rankings change faster than my Wi-Fi during extra time.

Punchline 2: If football were honest, the table would come with a reset button and a cup of tea.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Morocco maintain an eighth-place global ranking?

The update reflects the final decisions and FIFA's ranking criteria, confirming Morocco's strong standing.

What happened to Senegal's ranking?

Senegal dropped to 14th worldwide after losing points following the final's outcome.

Could the final be replayed?

A legal process is underway at CAS that could lead to a new decision and potential changes to the result.