The rankings for 2024 highlight the best leagues based on various factors such as historical performance, financial strength, and club competitiveness. Here’s a detailed look at the top 20 leagues in Africa:
Egyptian Premier League (Egypt): This league is considered the strongest in Africa, featuring powerhouse clubs like Al Ahly and Zamalek. Its rich history and financial backing contribute significantly to its status.
Botola Pro (Morocco): Known for its competitive teams such as Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca, Morocco’s league consistently performs well in CAF competitions, solidifying its position as a leader in North African football.
Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 (Algeria): This league combines strong talent development with competitive clubs like ES Sétif and CR Belouizdad, making it a formidable force in African football
Premier Soccer League (South Africa): The PSL boasts excellent facilities and sponsorship deals, with teams like Mamelodi Sundowns leading the charge. It is recognized as the strongest league in Sub-Saharan Africa
Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 (Tunisia): Clubs such as Esperance and Étoile du Sahel have kept this league among the elite due to their consistent performances in continental tournaments
Tanzanian Premier League (Tanzania): Rapid growth and investment have propelled this league forward, with clubs like Simba SC gaining prominence on the continental stage.
Girabola (Angola): Angola’s top league remains competitive, producing skilled players and attracting passionate fans who support their local teams.
Linafoot (Democratic Republic of Congo): With renowned clubs like TP Mazembe and AS Vita Club, this league maintains its reputation as a football powerhouse within Africa
Sudan Premier League (Sudan): Clubs such as Al-Hilal and Al-Merrikh drive the competitiveness of Sudan’s league, which has a rich footballing tradition
Ligue 1 (Ivory Coast): Known for its exceptional talent pool, this league continues to develop stars who often make their way to international markets
Libyan Premier League (Libya): Despite facing challenges, Libyan football remains competitive with clubs like Al-Ittihad leading the charge
Malian Première Division (Mali): This league has seen growth in both talent development and international recognition over recent years
Nigeria Professional Football League (Nigeria): While home to a wealth of talent, infrastructure issues hinder its overall ranking compared to other leagues
Ghana Premier League (Ghana): Historically significant, Ghana’s league continues to produce talented players but faces stiff competition from other nations’ leagues
Guinée Championnat National (Guinea): Guinean clubs are increasingly making waves in regional competitions, showcasing the growing strength of their domestic league
Botswana Premier League (Botswana): Steady investments in player development have helped elevate Botswana’s football scene over recent years
Ligue 1 (Senegal): As Africa’s reigning champions in international football, Senegal’s domestic league is building its reputation further on the continent[.
Super D1 (Mauritania): Mauritania’s league is emerging as a force due to improving infrastructure and growing local talent pools
Congo Premier League (Congo): This league remains competitive with a strong fan base supporting capable clubs throughout the season.
Elite One (Cameroon): Despite facing various challenges, Cameroon’s top division continues to contribute significantly to the nation’s rich footballing heritage
These rankings reflect not only the quality of play but also factors such as investment levels, fan support, and organizational strength within each country’s football ecosystem.
About the Author
