It is the first time since February 2001 that the team, coached by Herve Renard, have made it into the top 50.
Nineteen years after a plane crash which killed 18 members of their squad in Libreville, the Chipolopolo returned to the Gabon capital to record the most famous victory in the country's history with an 8-7 penalty shootout win over Ivory Coast on Sunday.
The Ivorians remained Africa's top team, up three places to 15th, while third-placed Mali climbed 25 spots to 44th.
Spain stayed top of the pile with Germany rising one place to second at the expense of Holland.
Portugal, Italy and Denmark climbed one spot each to sixth, eighth and 10th respectively, the latter pushing Argentina down to 11th position.
Barcelona will wear this new home soccer jersey next season. They also have a new away jersey. Get them both.
England will debut their new away jersey against Brazil at the Maracana Stadium on Sunday. Get in the Gear
The hoop soccer jersey is classic and cool. The USA hooped jersey is perfect for every fan. Get in the Gear.
Neymar's move from Santos to Barcelona is no doubt the biggest summer transfer.
Manchester City will try and win back the Premier League title with this new soccer jersey from Nike!
The adidas Nitrocharge is the most talked about new cleat in years. It was released on May 15 and will take your pitch by storm.
Germany is one of the top teams ever and they will play the US on Sunday.
The Nike Hypervenom is the latest cleat silo from Nike. It will change your game and is worn by the game's top players.
Jamaica is in need of a win against the U.S. Get the jersey of the Reggae Boyz.
The USA will wear their blue away jersey against Jamaica in their World Cup qualifier on Friday night.