National Teams
Didier Six ranks Nigeria among Africa’s top four national teams right now
Former France international and experienced coach Didier Six has named Nigeria’s Super Eagles among the African national teams currently making the strongest impression.
Six included Nigeria alongside Senegal, Morocco and Egypt when asked to identify the African sides he rates highly at the moment.
“Senegal, Morocco, Egypt and Nigeria. The level of these teams is improving and African football is progressing in general,” Six told Foot Africa.
The French coach’s assessment comes despite Nigeria’s failure to qualify for consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments, including the 2026 edition in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Super Eagles have, however, maintained a strong record at recent Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Nigeria reached the final of the previous AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire before finishing third at the latest edition in Morocco, making them the only African nation to finish on the podium at both tournaments.
Six also highlighted Nigeria’s ability to consistently produce players capable of competing at some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen won the African Footballer of the Year award in 2023, while Atlético Madrid forward Ademola Lookman claimed the prestigious honour the following year.
The Super Eagles also have several other players competing in Europe’s major leagues, including Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Tochukwu Nnadi, Raphael Onyedika, Terem Moffi, Ola Aina, Femi Azeez, Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi.
Six’s assessment is also reflected in the latest FIFA rankings, with Morocco, Senegal, Egypt and Nigeria occupying the top four positions among African nations.
For Nigeria, the recognition comes as the Super Eagles continue rebuilding under head coach Eric Chelle following the disappointment of missing another World Cup.
Despite that setback, Six’s comments underline the quality and depth still available to Nigeria as the three-time African champions look ahead to the next phase of their international programme.
