England move up third world ranking
England move up third world ranking
England are up to third in FIFA’s men’s world rankings, equalling their highest ever position.
Following their defeat by Italy in the Euro 2020 final in July, England beat Hungary and Andorra 4-0 in
World Cup qualifying earlier this month before drawing with Poland.
The last time England were ranked third was in September 2012.
Belgium remain in top spot, while Brazil are second.
Wales stay in 19th after a victory against Belarus sandwiched between draws against Finland and Estonia.
Scotland, who lost in Denmark before beating Moldova and Austria, rise four places to 45th.
Northern Ireland are also up four spots, wins over Lithuania and Estonia and a draw with Switzerland lifting them to 47th.
The Republic of Ireland have fallen from 47th to 50th after defeat by Portugal and draws with Azerbaijan and Serbia.
The FIFA rankings were first introduced in December 1992.
successful teams being ranked highest. The rankings were introduced in December 1992, and eight teams
(Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain) have held the top position, of which Brazil
have spent the longest ranked first.
A points system is used, with points being awarded based on the results of all FIFA-recognized full international matches.
The ranking system has been revamped on several occasions, generally responding to criticism.
