Morocco climbed to a historic sixth place in the live FIFA rankings following a 1–1 draw between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Portugal in their opening Group stage match at the 2026 World Cup in Houston.
The result allowed the Atlas Lions to achieve their best ranking ever, moving up one spot in the provisional standings, level with Brazil’s own rise to fifth, while Portugal dropped two places to seventh. Argentina retained top position ahead of France, with Spain and England completing the top five.
Morocco’s ascent brings it within touching distance of fifth place, the best position ever reached by an African side, held by Nigeria since April 1994.
The Atlas Lions also continue to dominate the African hierarchy, maintaining a comfortable lead over continental rivals. Senegal sit 16th globally, followed by Nigeria (25th), Egypt (29th) and Côte d’Ivoire (30th).
Algeria slipped out of Africa’s top five after a heavy 3–0 defeat to Argentina, combined with Côte d’Ivoire’s win over Ecuador.
Currently competing in the United States, Morocco have made a solid start to their World Cup campaign. They held Brazil to a promising 1–1 draw in their opening match, reinforcing their credentials as one of the tournament’s dark horses and confirming the momentum built since their historic semi-final run in Qatar four years earlier.
Mohamed Ouahbi’s side will look to build on that result when they face Scotland on June 19 at Gillette Stadium in Boston, in what could prove a decisive fixture for qualification to the knockout stages.
