In a stunning turn of events at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, holders Senegal were eliminated by Cote d’Ivoire, paving the way for Nigeria to emerge as the second-highest-ranked team in the Ivorian group. The match, which ended 1-1 and went to penalties, saw Senegal’s dreams of retaining their title dashed.

Despite Senegal’s early lead with a goal from Habib Diallo in the 4th minute, Cote d’Ivoire showcased an improved performance, earning an equalizer through a Franck Kessie penalty just four minutes before regulation time. The game ultimately went to a penalty shootout, where Cote d’Ivoire secured a 5-4 victory after defender Moussa Niakhaté’s effort hit the post.

With Senegal’s elimination, Nigeria’s Super Eagles now stand as the second-highest-ranked team in Cote d’Ivoire. Prior to the tournament, Nigeria was ranked sixth on the continent according to FIFA rankings. Algeria and Tunisia’s early exits in the group stages, coupled with Egypt and Senegal’s Round of 16 losses, further boosted Nigeria’s standing.

As the only team still at AFCON ranked higher than Nigeria, Morocco remains Africa’s number-one team. Nigeria is set to face Angola in the quarterfinals on Friday, February 2, at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan. While Angola aims to reach the semifinals for the first time, the Super Eagles, eyeing their fourth AFCON trophy, continue their quest in a tournament where they have advanced to the last four in 15 out of 19 previous attempts.