Argentina Set to Reclaim FIFA Rankings Top Spot After Friendly Matches

As teams finalize their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina is on track to reclaim the top spot in FIFA rankings after Spain and France's recent friendly match results. Spain's draw against Iraq and France's unexpected loss to the Ivory Coast have opened the door for Argentina to rise back to No. 1. This article explores the implications of these matches and the historical context surrounding the No. 1 ranking in World Cup history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 11:14 IST

Final Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

As national teams gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recent friendly matches have influenced the FIFA rankings significantly. Spain faced Iraq in their last home game before heading to the United States, resulting in a disappointing 1-1 draw at Estadio Riazor in La Coruna. Meanwhile, France experienced an unexpected 2-1 loss to the Ivory Coast at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.

Argentina's Return to the Top

Following these results, Argentina is poised to reclaim the top position in the FIFA rankings with the upcoming update on Monday. Previously, France held the No. 1 spot, having ascended during the March FIFA international window after surpassing Spain. Prior to this, Luis de la Fuente's team had dethroned Argentina in July 2025, ending the South American champions' reign that began after their victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Historical Context of the No. 1 Ranking

Historically, no team has won the World Cup after entering as the top-ranked side since the FIFA rankings were established in 1992. For instance, Germany was the top team in 1994 but lost to Brazil in the final. Similarly, Brazil, ranked No. 1 in 1998, fell to France, and the same fate befell them in 2002 against Brazil. In 2006, Brazil again entered as the top team but was defeated by Italy. In 2010, despite being ranked first, Brazil could not secure the title as Spain emerged victorious.