FIFA Ranking: Spain Dethrones Argentina, Egypt Overtakes Nigeria

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has reshaped the global football hierarchy, resulting in significant changes in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings. Spain’s dramatic victory over Argentina in the final has led to La Roja ascending to the top of the rankings, replacing the Albiceleste. This shift reflects the outcomes of an unforgettable tournament, which saw Morocco consolidate their position as Africa's highest-ranked nation and Norway make a remarkable leap into the world’s top 20.

Spain secured their status as the world's number one team by winning the FIFA World Cup, bolstered by Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner that clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium. During their World Cup campaign, Spain accumulated an impressive 121.17 ranking points, elevating their total to 1,995.88 points, marking their first return to the top since their golden era.

Argentina experienced mixed feelings with the rankings update. They entered the tournament as the top-ranked nation and nearly retained their title and ranking but ultimately slipped to second place following their defeat to Spain. Despite a remarkable journey to their second consecutive World Cup final, including a comeback victory against England in the semi-finals, Argentina now has 1,970.37 points.

The top five teams are rounded out by France, England, and Brazil. France remained third with 1,948.97 points, experiencing a setback with a 6-4 loss to England in the third-place playoff. Meanwhile, England’s victory earned them 33.41 points, securing the fourth position with 1,922.83 points, while Brazil, despite a quarter-final shock from Norway, finished fifth with 1,804.92 points.

Among African nations, Morocco emerged as the biggest winner. Their impressive quarter-final run propelled them to sixth in the world with 1,803.99 points, solidifying their place as Africa’s top team. In contrast, Tunisia dropped significantly to 57th.

The World Cup also altered the competitive landscape among Africa’s leading football nations. Egypt’s strong performance, which saw them reach the Round of 16, allowed them to overtake Nigeria, placing 24th in the rankings. The Super Eagles, with their absence from the World Cup aside from a friendly against Portugal, have dropped to 26th and now rank fourth in Africa behind Morocco, Senegal, and Egypt.

Norway had a notable rise in the rankings, moving up 12 places to 19th after an impressive campaign that included a stunning upset of Brazil. Other key nations in the top ten include Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Mexico, with the latter climbing four spots to complete the top ten.