‘Not in a positive way’- Randy Waldrum questions Super Falcons’ new FIFA ranking

Super Falcons coach Randy Wladrum has expressed his surprise at the latest FIFA Ranking following the conclusion of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. 

The new FIFA ranking was released on August 25, with Sweden going top and world champions Spain moving up to second ahead of the United States. 

Nigeria’s Super Falcons also rose in the ranking, moving up eight places to the 32nd position in the world. 

The latest position sees the Super Falcons maintain their status as Africa’s number one nation in women’s football. 

However, despite their rise, coach Waldrum is not too pleased, suggesting the nine-time African champions should have ranked higher after a strong World Cup campaign. 

The American tactician took to his Twitter page to express his surprise after the ranking came out on Friday. 

“Must say I am a little surprised at this to say the least..not in a positive way!” Randy Waldrum said on Twitter. 

Waldrum is right to question FIFA’s latest ranking, even though the Super Falcons moved up eight places. 

The nine-time African champions had their best World Cup since 1999, but are still ranked behind teams that failed to qualify for the Mundial. 

Nigeria finished the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup unbeaten despite going out in the round of 16. 

The Super Falcons kicked off their campaign with a goalless draw against Olympic champions Canada before recording a stunning 3-2 win over Australia in their second group game. 

They qualified for the round of 16 after playing a goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland in their final group. 

Waldrum’s ladies then pushed beaten finalists England all the way in their round of 16 clash before losing on penalties. 

Still, the nine-time African champions are ranked below sides like the Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, Ireland, Finland and New Zealand. 

The next FIFA Women’s ranking will be published on December 15, 2023.