The FIFA women's world rankings released on Thursday saw a shift at the top, with Spain taking over the number one spot from the United States. Canada experienced a further drop, falling to ninth place. This marks the third consecutive decline for the Canadian women's team, who ended 2024 ranked sixth.
Spain's ascent to the top was fueled by a successful run in the UEFA European Women's Championship, where they secured five consecutive wins before losing to England in the final. The U.S., despite losing the top spot, remains close behind Spain, having achieved three home wins in friendlies since the previous rankings.
Other significant movements in the rankings include Sweden's jump to third place and England's rise to fourth, both benefiting from their performances in the European Championship. Germany, however, slipped to fifth place. France made a notable leap, climbing four places to sixth. Brazil, despite winning the Women's Copa America, dropped to seventh. Japan, Canada, and North Korea also experienced declines, finishing at eighth, ninth, and tenth respectively.
Further down the rankings, Bangladesh made a significant jump of 24 places to reach 104th, following their success in the AFC final qualifying tournament for the 2027 Women's World Cup. Vanuatu and Solomon Islands also saw considerable improvements, with the Solomon Islands being rewarded for their victory in the OFC Women’s Nations Cup. Several other teams, including Poland, Haiti, and Saudi Arabia, reached their highest-ever rankings.
3 Comments
Coccinella
Canada's drop isn't ideal, but they can bounce back. Gotta stay positive and support our girls.
Mariposa
This shows a shift in power, but will be helpful to all.
Comandante
Japan is falling behind the ranks. Their previous games were better than the other team's.