Spain Extends Lead in FIFA World Rankings as Portugal and Switzerland Rise
FIFA World Rankings Update
File image of FIFA winners trophy
Zurich, Oct 8: Spain has solidified its position at the top of the FIFA world rankings, increasing its lead over Argentina, which now holds the second spot. Meanwhile, Portugal and Switzerland have made notable advancements, climbing to fifth and twelfth place, respectively.
Several nations, including Australia, Canada, Côte d'Ivoire, Sweden, Greece, Mali, and South Africa, have also seen improvements in their rankings.
Spain ascended to the number one position in July after their dramatic 1-0 victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente, the team has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak, winning all four matches since the tournament, extending their record to 42 matches without a loss.
Following Spain in the rankings are Argentina, France, and England. Portugal's recent success in the UEFA Nations League has propelled them to fifth place, pushing Brazil and Morocco down to sixth and seventh, respectively. Under new management from Jorge Jesus, Portugal has won all four of their recent matches, including victories against Norway and Denmark.
Switzerland, who reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup 2026, also achieved four consecutive wins, three of which were by a score of 3-0. Key players Zeki Amdouni and Dan Ndoye have been instrumental in their success, allowing them to surpass Germany and Croatia, who now sit at thirteenth and fourteenth.
Australia has moved up two spots to 26th, while Canada has climbed three places to 27th. Côte d’Ivoire and Sweden have also made gains, moving up to 29th and 34th, respectively. Greece has made a significant leap, rising five spots to 41st after a strong performance in the Nations League.
Mali and South Africa have both improved their standings by six positions, now ranked 47th and 48th. Mali's success can be attributed to players like Dorgeles Nene and the promising Ange Martial Tia, while South Africa's goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has been pivotal in their recent victories.
Africa now boasts ten nations within the top 50, with Mozambique, The Gambia, Rwanda, Guinea-Bissau, and Botswana also making upward movements in the rankings.
Other countries that have seen improvements include Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Northern Ireland, Angola, Haiti, Estonia, Dominican Republic, Guyana, and Barbados.
Since the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 19, a total of 338 international matches have taken place, including fixtures from the UEFA and CONCACAF Nations League and qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.