Fiji has achieved a significant milestone by advancing four spots in the latest FIFA World Ranking, now positioned as the second highest ranked team in the Oceania region. The Bula Boys, managed by Rob Sherman, are currently ranked 146th, marking their highest standing since 2011. This ascent follows their victory over the Solomon Islands with a score of 1-0 on October 10 during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
In parallel, New Zealand has also seen improvement in the rankings, rising to 91st place, the highest it has been since 2016, buoyed by wins against Tahiti and Malaysia. Additionally, New Caledonia and Vanuatu climbed five spots to 155th and 157th respectively after successful performances in their World Cup qualifier matches.
Conversely, Papua New Guinea has experienced a decline, falling to 171st place, which is their lowest ranking since 2018.
On a global scale, the top three teams have become more closely matched. Argentina retains the top spot, but their lead over France and Spain has decreased. England, Brazil, and Belgium maintain their rankings in the fourth, fifth, and sixth positions, respectively. Portugal and Italy have both gained one place to rank seventh and ninth, while the Netherlands and Colombia have dropped one spot, sitting at eighth and tenth. Germany has risen two spots to 11th and is now close to breaking into the top ten.
The next FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking is set to be released on November 28, 2024.
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