Super Eagles Drop to Fifth in Africa as Squad Value Declines

Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, have fallen to fifth place among Africa’s most valuable squads in the latest valuation released by Transfermarkt, marking a notable shift in the continent’s football hierarchy.

Once ranked as Africa’s most valuable team just three years ago with an estimated worth of €339 million, Nigeria’s squad value has dropped significantly to €209.08 million. This decline now places them fifth on the continent and 33rd globally.

The reduction has been largely driven by falling market values among several key players. Victor Boniface, previously valued at €45 million, has seen a sharp decrease, while others such as Taiwo Awoniyi, Umar Sadiq, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Wilfred Ndidi have also recorded declines, collectively impacting the team’s overall valuation.

Despite this downturn, Nigeria still boasts a number of high-value players. Victor Osimhen remains the standout asset at €75 million, followed by Ademola Lookman (€40 million), Calvin Bassey (€28 million), Alex Iwobi (€25 million), and Raphael Onyedika (€23 million). Their presence underlines the depth of talent still available within the squad.

Across Africa, Senegal now lead the rankings with a total squad value of €456.80 million, ahead of Morocco (€437.00 million) and Ivory Coast (€410.90 million). Algeria occupy fourth place with €227.75 million, narrowly edging Nigeria. Ghana sit in sixth position with €191.28 million, while South Africa are ranked 17th overall.

Senegal’s rise has been fueled by strong international performances and increasing player valuations, reflecting the country’s growing influence in global football.

The latest rankings highlight a broader trend in African football, where squad values are increasingly shaped by performances in Europe’s top leagues, effective player development systems, and sustained international success.

While Nigeria’s drop is significant, their continued presence in Africa’s top five suggests they remain a competitive force on the continent. However, the shift signals the need for improved player performance and strategic development if the Super Eagles are to reclaim their position at the summit of African football.

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

See Full Bio