Argentina returns to No. 1 in FIFA rankings ahead of World Cup defense

Argentina has returned to the pinnacle of the FIFA world rankings, reclaiming the No. 1 position just days before commencing their World Cup title defense.

The South American powerhouse ascended two spots to reclaim the top ranking, a position they had not held since July 2025. This surge follows recent victories in warm-up matches against Iceland and Honduras. Argentina is set to begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria on Tuesday in Kansas City.

Meanwhile, France, the previous top-ranked team, has slipped to third place. Their ranking was impacted by a recent loss to Ivory Coast, despite a victory over Northern Ireland. Spain remains unchanged in second place, just ahead of France. The top 10 is rounded out by England, Portugal, Brazil, Morocco, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

These updated rankings could play a significant role in the upcoming expanded 48-team World Cup. FIFA regulations state that the rankings will serve as the final tiebreaker should two or more teams finish with equal points after the group stage matches.