Spain will finish 2025 as the top-ranked men’s team in the FIFA rankings, reflecting a remarkable rise over recent years.
The latest rankings, published Monday, show little movement among the top 10, with Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Croatia following Spain. The previous standings, released on November 19, had also seen limited changes.
Spain’s ascent to the top is the culmination of consistent performances across major tournaments and qualifiers. After finishing second in the 2022 World Cup and winning UEFA Nations League 2023, La Roja has consolidated its dominance, blending experienced stars with emerging talent. Their success in World Cup Group E qualifying this year further strengthened their claim to the number-one spot.
Argentina, the reigning world champions, had ended 2024 as FIFA’s No.1 with a narrow lead over France and Spain after a year that included success in major tournaments and qualifiers.
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In the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, Spain will face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde in Group H, part of the tournament hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Analysts say Spain’s combination of tactical discipline, attacking flair, and squad depth positions them as strong contenders for the next global showpiece.
Among other notable movements, Vietnam climbed three places to 107th, registering the largest jump in the latest rankings.
FIFA will publish its next men’s rankings on Jan. 19, as teams continue their build‑up to the 2026 World Cup co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
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