Morocco move above Brazil into fifth in live FIFA world ranking

Morocco have climbed to fifth place in the live FIFA men’s world ranking after Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Australia opened the door for the Atlas Lions to move above the five-time world champions.

Brazil’s dropped points in Friday’s friendly in Townsville allowed Morocco to overtake them in the unofficial live calculation, with the North African side moving up from sixth.

Brazil draw allows Morocco to move up

Brazil were held by Australia in their first international test since the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the result having a direct impact on the current FIFA ranking calculations.

Morocco entered the latest ranking period just behind Brazil in sixth place, but the South American side’s draw has now moved the Atlas Lions into fifth in the live standings.

The position is particularly significant for Morocco as they prepare to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Fifth place yet to become official

Despite Morocco’s rise, fifth place is not yet an official FIFA ranking position.

FIFA’s latest official ranking remains the July 20 edition, while the next official update is scheduled for October 7.

The governing body also states that its live ranking is unofficial until the relevant matches are approved as international “A” fixtures.

Morocco face Gabon in AFCON qualifier

Morocco have an immediate opportunity to strengthen their position when they face Gabon in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifier in Rabat.

The Atlas Lions will meet Gabon at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium at 19:00 GMT, with Mohamed Ouahbi beginning a new qualifying campaign as head coach.

Morocco and Gabon are in Group A alongside Niger and Lesotho.

The North Africans will be looking to build on their performance at the 2026 World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals and finished seventh. They also drew 1-1 with Brazil during the tournament.

Brazil, meanwhile, will face Australia again next Tuesday before continuing their September international schedule with a friendly against India.