Portugal rise to fifth in FIFA rankings as Brazil and Morocco slip

Portugal have moved two places into fifth in the latest FIFA world rankings, becoming the only team to break into the top five after a perfect run in the Nations League.

The rankings, released on Wednesday, reflect Portugal’s four successive victories during the most recent international break. They defeated Norway home and away, as well as Wales and Denmark, to climb above both Brazil and Morocco.

Brazil and Morocco each dropped one place after drawing friendly matches, making them the only other sides to change position in the top 10.

Spain remain top of the rankings and strengthened their position after making an impressive start to their Nations League campaign. The world champions, who won the World Cup for a second time this summer, recorded four straight victories, including a 3-2 win over England. They also beat Croatia twice and defeated Czech Republic once.

Argentina retained second place after beating Benin 3-0 on Tuesday evening. The match marked Lionel Messi’s final appearance for the national team, in an emotional occasion for the Argentina captain.

France and England complete the top four, while Belgium, the Netherlands and Mexico continue to occupy places in the top 10.

The United States remain 16th despite a run of four consecutive wins. Their results included a 4-1 victory over Peru, a 4-2 win against Chile, a 3-0 success against Mexico and a 1-0 victory over Canada.

Rwanda make biggest leap

Rwanda produced the biggest rise in this update, climbing nine places to 119th. Their progress followed a valuable 2-1 victory over Cape Verde in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on 29 September.

Cape Verde are regarded as one of the leading contenders to qualify for the World Cup, making Rwanda’s result particularly significant in the latest rankings.

Sierra Leone suffered the sharpest decline. They fell eight places to 130th after losing both of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches.

The next FIFA world rankings are scheduled to be released on 18 November.