Bad news for the Blues

Failed again! Despite a very complicated year in 2024 with less than 50% victories, the French team still had a chance to seize first place in the FIFA Ranking. Consequence of their great victory won in Italy (1-3), Sunday, and especially the recent setback conceded by Argentina during its trip to Paraguay (2-1).

The fate of the Blues was nevertheless in the feet of the Argentines. To finish at the top of the world hierarchy, the Albiceleste had to put together another poor performance, this time at home against Peru. A draw or defeat for the world champions would have propelled them into first place.

Argentina retains first place in the FIFA Ranking

Alas, if Argentina did not shine and had to be patient, it finally ensured the bare minimum by winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Lautaro Martinez in the 55th^e minute following a serve from Lionel Messi. The main thing was except for the Argentines who retain first place in the qualifiers for the Amsud Zone and therefore in the FIFA Ranking.

Their lead nevertheless melted like snow in the sun. While it was 24 points ahead of France in October, the gap is now only seven points. And Spain is now very close behind since the European champions follow just 7 points behind France, with England and Brazil completing the Top 5 at a good distance.

Note for the rest that Belgium continues its decline. Beaten by Italy and Israel, the Red Devils have lost two more places and are in eighth place, behind Portugal and the Netherlands, respectively 6^e et 7^e.