Spain will end 2025 as the top men’s team in the FIFA rankings.
Ranking Release and Methodology
FIFA released the updated rankings on Monday, following the previous standings that were published on November 19. The new list reflects only the results of Arab Cup matches, which were the sole fixtures counted in the calculation after the earlier release. This limited set of matches has produced a relatively stable ranking landscape, with few changes across the top tier.
The Top Ten Unchanged
The first ten positions in the FIFA world rankings remain exactly as they were in the November 19 release. From the summit down to the ninth spot, the order is:
- Argentina
- France
- England
- Brazil
- Portugal
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Germany
- Croatia
- Spain
Spain’s placement at number ten is a testament to its performance in recent international fixtures and its standing among the world’s elite national teams.
Spain’s World Cup Qualification
Spain secured its spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by winning Group E in the qualification process. The national team will enter the tournament as one of the hosts’ group H competitors, joining Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. This group placement means that Spain will face a mix of established football powers and emerging teams in the first round of the World Cup.
Group H and the 2026 Tournament
The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first time the competition will be hosted by three nations simultaneously. Group H, in which Spain is set to compete, will feature a diverse set of opponents that will test the Spanish side’s adaptability and tactical depth.
Vietnam’s Rise in the Rankings
While the top of the table remained largely unchanged, FIFA highlighted a notable movement at the lower end of the rankings. Vietnam climbed three places to secure the 107th position. This leap is the most significant improvement seen in the current update and reflects the country’s growing presence on the international stage.
Upcoming Ranking Update
FIFA has scheduled the next release of the world rankings for January 19. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see whether the current order holds or if new performances in upcoming fixtures will prompt a reshuffle.
Key Takeaways
- Spain ends 2025 as the world’s top men’s football team in the FIFA rankings.
- The top ten positions remain unchanged from the November 19 release.
- Vietnam moves up three places to rank 107th, the biggest gain in this update.
- Spain will compete in Group H at the 2026 World Cup, facing Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.
- The next ranking update is scheduled for January 19.
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The announcement of Spain’s position at the pinnacle of the FIFA rankings underscores the country’s sustained excellence on the international stage. As the World Cup approaches, the Spanish team’s performance in Group H will be closely monitored, while the rise of Vietnam highlights the evolving competitive landscape in world football.
