The Super Eagles of Nigeria moved three spots upward in the latest FIFA men’s rankings released on Thursday.

The October rankings released by the world football governing body saw Nigeria gain 5.27 points and move from 39th to 36th worldwide.

The Super Eagles also moved two spots in the continental ranking, with the managerless national team now fourth-best in Africa.

The rankings followed a 1-0 win over Libya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying game this month.

Argentina, however, remains the first-ranked nation globally, while the top six have not changed. Morocco is the highest-ranked nation in Africa. Comoros were the biggest climbers, gaining 10 places, while Tunisia suffered the worst drop globally, losing 11 places.

Also, Botswana gained the most points, while Cape Verde dropped the most points by a country in the latest rankings.

In the women’s ranking, the Super Falcons remain in the 36th spot globally, and first in Africa.

The next FIFA rankings will be released on November 28, 2024.

Tunde Onakoya has launched the first chess innovation hub in Lagos to nurture young talent in Nigeria.

Onakoya, who is the founder of Chess In Slums, recently took to Instagram to share footage from the unveiling ceremony.

The chess master expressed excitement about the hub’s potential, adding that it will empower underprivileged children through innovative education.

Onakoya said the hub would provide young talent free access to tech-related programmes (coding, robotics, AI/machine learning), design, advanced chess training, and a book reading club.

“I have always believed that every child, no matter their background, deserves the opportunity to develop their full potential. This hub will be a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured and where we’ll inspire children to have faith in their own ideas,” he wrote.

“As promised, the hub will be free and accessible to children in Makoko, as well as homeless children in Yaba, Ebutte Metta, and Surulere axis. We will focus on creating programs that teach Coding, Robotics, AI/Machine Learning, design, advanced chess training and a book reading club.

“This is where we reimagine education for children who may have fallen through the cracks of society and help them unleash the power of their minds in creative ways.”

Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has spoken out regarding the struggles of his ex-teammates, Emmanuel Amuneke and Daniel Amokachi, in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Following a successful match where his Rivers United side extended their unbeaten run to seven games, Finidi addressed the challenges faced by Amuneke and Amokachi, urging fans to allow them to “do their jobs.”

“I can’t speak, please, let them not say I don’t want anybody to choke me, so, let them do their job,” the 53-year-old remarked after his team’s recent 2-0 victory over Shooting Stars in Port Harcourt.

The win against the Oracle-led Oluyole Warriors has solidified Rivers United’s position at the top of the league table.

However, things are not looking good for his former colleagues. Amuneke’s Heartland FC, who recently dropped points at home, have struggled this season, managing just one win in seven matches.

The Naze Millionaire, who were relegated last season but found a way back, are currently preparing to face Bayelsa United, hoping to turn their fortunes around.

Meanwhile, Amokachi’s Lobi Stars have yet to secure a victory in their last two matches and will be facing Ikorodu City, who are currently at the bottom of the league.

Finidi’s comments highlight the pressures faced by coaches in the NPFL, particularly those with high expectations due to their illustrious playing careers.

While Rivers United continue to thrive under his leadership, Amuneke and Amokachi are working hard to find solutions for their respective teams.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these former teammates as they navigate the challenges of coaching in Nigeria’s competitive football landscape.

Finidi’s support for Amuneke and Amokachi reflects a spirit of unity among former players, even as they face off in the league.