Argentina Set to Reclaim FIFA Top Spot After Friendly Match Upsets

Spain and France's unexpected friendly results have opened the door for Argentina to regain the No. 1 spot in the FIFA rankings. Despite previous setbacks, Argentina's return to the top is imminent as historic challenges for top-ranked teams at FIFA World Cups remain.

National teams are in the final throes of preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with significant developments unfolding following recent friendlies. Spain and France's performances have inadvertently set the stage for Argentina's return to the zenith of FIFA rankings. Spain drew 1-1 against Iraq in an anticlimactic ending to their World Cup home fixtures at Estadio Riazor in La Coruna.

Simultaneously, France faced a shock defeat, losing 2-1 to the Ivory Coast at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. The outcomes of these matches are pivotal as they will allow Argentina to reclaim the top tier in the upcoming FIFA rankings update on Monday. Previously, France had overtaken this prime position from Spain in March, which, in turn, had toppled Argentina in July 2025.

Historically, holding the No. 1 ranking entering a World Cup has not guaranteed success. Since the rankings' 1992 inception, no top-ranked squad has clinched the tournament. The track record includes Germany's 1994 upset loss, Brazil's 1998 defeat by France, and several more, underscoring the challenges awaiting high-ranked teams.