Lamine Yamal's Spain have stormed back to the summit of international football, claiming top spot from Lionel Messi's Argentina in the latest FIFA men's world rankings for the first time since 2014. Their rise comes after victories over Turkey and Bulgaria in World Cup qualifying, ending the world champions' two-year reign at the top, as they slip to third following a costly defeat to Ecuador, with France moving up to second.
Getty ImagesWorld Champions Argentina drop to third as Spain go top
Spain’s resurgence is a significant boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which they will enter as champions of Europe. For Argentina, losing their grip on the rankings doesn’t erase their status as holders, but raises questions about consistency heading into their title defence in North America next year. France’s steady climb keeps them within striking distance of overtaking La Roja in the coming months.
AdvertisementEngland stay fourth while Portugal rise to fifth
Elsewhere, England stayed in fourth, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal climbed to fifth, overtaking Brazil, who now sit sixth after a series of poor results. Morocco and Japan remain the highest-ranked teams in Africa and Asia, reflecting their growing strength on the global stage. Mexico continue to lead CONCACAF, holding 14th place, ahead of the United States in 16th.
The full FIFA rankings (1-20)
Here are the top 20 FIFA men's teams, according to their rankings:
1Spain1875.372France 1870.923Argentina 1870.324England 1820.445Portugal 1779.556Brazil 1761.607Netherlands 1754.178Belgium 1739.549Croatia 1714.2010Italy 1710.0611Morocco 1706.2712Germany 1704.2713Colombia 1692.1014Mexico 1688.3815Uruguay 1673.6516USA 1670.0417Switzerland 1648.3018Senegal 1645.2319Japan 1640.4720Denmark 1627.64Getty ImagesAttention now on World Cup 2026 draw
Attention now turns to the November update of the FIFA rankings, which will determine the all-important seedings for the expanded 48-team World Cup. The draw for the tournament takes place on December 5 in Washington. With margins at the top razor-thin, the battle for supremacy remains far from settled.