Algiers – The latest FIFA world rankings, released this Friday, reveal significant shifts among the top ten nations, as well as changes affecting Arab and African teams. These rankings are particularly crucial as African teams prepare for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying playoffs.Spain Reclaims Top Spot
Spain has maintained its position as the world’s top-ranked team in the October 2025 rankings, solidifying its hold on the number one spot after a string of victories in the European World Cup qualifiers. This marks the end of Argentina’s reign, which began in April 2023. Argentina now sits in second place, followed by France, who dropped to third after a 2-2 draw against Iceland. England and Portugal remain in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
Netherlands Climbs, Brazil Falls
The Netherlands has made a notable jump to sixth place, surpassing Brazil, who fell to seventh after a 3-2 friendly defeat to Japan. Belgium holds steady in eighth place, followed by Italy in ninth. Germany re-enters the top ten, claiming tenth place and pushing Croatia out.
Algeria Leads Arab Nations
The Algerian national team, known as “Les Verts” (The Greens), is ranked 35th globally and third among Arab nations. Tunisia follows in 43rd place, with Qatar (52nd), Iraq (57th), and Saudi Arabia (58th) rounding out the top five Arab teams. Jordan is ranked 66th globally, and the United Arab Emirates is 67th.
Rankings Impact World Cup Qualifying
The October 2025 FIFA rankings are especially significant as they will be used to determine the matchups for the crucial African World Cup 2026 qualifying playoffs. These playoffs, scheduled to take place in Morocco in November, will determine which African teams will advance to the World Cup finals. The stakes are high, and these rankings provide a clear picture of the competitive landscape as teams vie for a coveted spot on the world stage.
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Written by Noor Eleslam
