Spain dethrones Argentina, Brazil returns to the elite
The World Cup concluded this Sunday with Spain’s coronation (1st, +1). Victorious over Argentina after extra time, La Roja not only secures the second star in their history but also marks their major return to the top of the FIFA world rankings—a position they had not held since April. This success allows the Spaniards to approach the new season with a comfortable lead over their pursuers.
Argentina (2nd, -1), the unlucky defending champions in the final of the crown event, gives up first place but maintains second position. Behind the featured duo, France (3rd) and England (4th) demonstrate stability on the podium and just outside it. The Three Lions, winners of the third-place playoff against Les Bleus, consolidate their position at the summit of the hierarchy.
Finally, Brazil (5th, +1) achieves one of the best showings at the top of the table by re-entering the world Top 5. Benefiting from a strong campaign and Portugal’s early exit, the Seleção climbs one spot and rounds out the five giants of world football.
The Top 10 shaken up, Morocco climbing higher still
After the 104 matches of the tournament, the Top 10 records major changes. Morocco (6th, +1) continues its rise and overtakes Portugal (7th, -2), eliminated in the round of 16 by Spain. The Lions of the Atlas remain by far the best-ranked African nation.
For African football in particular, this 2026 edition will go down as a major turning point. Buoyed by an unprecedented presence of 10 nations in the final stage, the African continent saw leading teams confirm their stature and several outsiders pull off impressive feats.
After another memorable run to the quarterfinals (notably marked by a heroic penalty shootout qualification against the Netherlands), Morocco (6th, +1) has 1,803.99 points. The Lions of the Atlas are now less than a point behind Brazil (5th with 1,804.92 pts)! This 6th place in the world rankings is the best position in modern history for an African nation, reaffirming Moroccan supremacy on the continent.
Egypt and DR Congo steal the show
Two other African teams particularly stood out for their journeys and leaps in the rankings. First, Egypt (24th, +5), which impressed by making its way to the round of 16 before falling to Argentina. This achievement allows the Pharaohs to leap 5 places closer to the Top 20.
Among the tournament’s sensations, DR Congo (41st, +5) held England to a draw in the round of 32 before bowing out with honors. The Leopards stylishly return to the Top 45 in the world (+5 places).
South Africa and Ghana rewarded
Emerging from a particularly tough Group A at the expense of the Czech Republic, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana (54th, +6) confirm their resurgence with a gain of 6 positions. Ghana’s Black Stars (65th, +8), who produced impressive performances in Group K, record the biggest African climb post-World Cup with a leap of 8 places.
Senegal (18th in the world) holds on to its position as Africa’s second-ranked nation and remains securely in the world Top 20. Nigeria (26th in the world) stays in 4th place on the continent despite not taking part in the World Cup. Ivory Coast (31st) makes notable progress and directly threatens Algeria (29th) for Africa’s Top 5, after the Fennecs were eliminated in the round of 32 by Switzerland.
