FIFA rankings: Argentina reclaim No.1 spot as World Cup begins

Lionel Messi

Argentina will enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the highest-ranked team in the world after reclaiming the number one position in the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday, hours before the opening match of the tournament in North America.

The reigning world champions returned to the summit following back-to-back victories over Honduras and Iceland in their final warm-up matches.

Spain retained second place after securing a draw against Iraq and a victory over Peru, while France dropped to third after suffering a defeat to Ivory Coast despite recording subsequent wins.

England and Portugal complete the top five, with Brazil ranked sixth. Morocco remains Africa’s highest-ranked side in seventh place, ahead of the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.

Nigeria held on to 26th position despite a mixed run of results during the international window.

The Super Eagles recorded victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica at the Unity Cup in London before drawing 2-2 with Poland and losing narrowly to Portugal in Leiria.

The latest rankings underline Argentina’s status as one of the leading contenders for the World Cup crown, while Morocco continues to set the pace for African football on the global stage.

Top 10 FIFA rankings