Access the most thorough World Cup updates through The Athletic app. Day nine brought thrilling developments for the United States in the tournament, and questions arise about whether they can rise in the rankings. Meanwhile, Scotland put up a strong fight against Morocco, Brazil began showing team cohesion, and we witnessed the exit of the first two teams, including a pre-tournament favorite.
1. France
France, ranked third by FIFA, now tops our rankings. They began strongly with a 3-1 win over Senegal. Mbappe stood out, scoring twice, surpassing Olivier Giroud as the top scorer for France. Substitutes like Bradley Barcola added depth, reinforcing their leading position.
2. Argentina
Ranked first by FIFA, Argentina remains second here. Messi, at 38, scored his first World Cup hat-trick. Worries about their aging squad persist, but they started impressively. Full of experience, they aim to overcome the long tournament test.
3. England
Holding their FIFA rank at fourth, England’s attack shone in a 4-2 win over Croatia. Despite defensive questions, Kane, Bellingham, and Rashford delivered. England sits third, trailing 2022 finalists.
4. Germany
Germany stayed 10th in FIFA ranks, maintaining high expectations after a 7-1 win over Curacao. Their attack entertains, yet defensive concerns linger. Their true potential awaits a tougher test.
5. Brazil
Climbing in confidence, Brazil moved up to fifth. With a commanding 3-0 win over Haiti, Cunha’s inclusion bolstered the attack. Despite missed chances in the second half, they show promise during group play.
6. Spain
Spain, now ranked sixth by FIFA, faces a dip. A goalless draw with Cape Verde disappointed. Relying heavily on young star Yamal, much work remains to contend seriously in the tournament.
7. Morocco
Morocco holds steady with an energized start against Scotland. A quick goal from Saibari set the pace. Though they had to withstand late pressure, securing a 1-0 victory places them well for knockout stages.
8. Netherlands
The Netherlands fell short of expectations against Japan. Shining in set pieces but revealing depth issues, they could only manage a draw after late defensive substitutions faltered.
9. United States
From 17th in FIFA to a major rise in our rankings, the U.S. celebrated a 2-0 victory against Australia. Despite Pulisic’s absence, Balogun’s efforts catalyzed the win, underscoring their group success for the first time since 2010.
10. Mexico
Mexico navigated into the knockout phase early, ensuring their lead in Group A with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Although not flashy, their perfect record sets the stage for the knockout rounds in Mexico City.