Five-time World Cup winners Brazil rose to second place as they closed the gap on leaders Argentina in the latest FIFA rankings.
Brazil were rewarded for winning their past six CONMEBOL group World Cup qualifiers by moving up one place in the standings, reports Xinhua.
The Selecao usurped Germany, who slipped to the third spot despite winning each of their first four World Cup qualifiers by an aggregate of 16 goals.
Argentina, fifth in the CONMEBOL standings with just five wins from 12 matches, remain the world's top team but have seen their lead slashed to 90 points from 156 points in October.
Copa America champions Chile were the biggest movers inside the top 10, climbing two places to fourth.
Republic of Ireland jumped 10 places to 23rd on the back of three straight World Cup qualifying wins.
FIFA rankings:
1. Argentina
2. Brazil
3. Germany
4. Chile
5. Belgium
6. Colombia
7. France
8. Portugal
9. Uruguay
10. Spain
--IANS
ajb/mr
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app