Dutch on the FIFA podium
· USA reasserts dominance in latest standings
· Netherlands replace France on the podium
· Many changes following decision to extend permissible period of inactivity from 18 to 48 months
USA have confirmed their dominance of the women’s game in the latest edition of the FIFA Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking. Not only did they play more games (7) than any other team since the last edition, but they also went unbeaten, reaching a points total last achieved in 2013.
But while the team leading the standings has not changed, the podium has a new look to it. Defeated by USA in friendly on 13 April, France (4th) lost ground and slipped to fourth place. Victors the same day over Australia (5-0), the Netherlands (3rd) moved onto the podium by setting a record points for them (2038.61 pts).
Those teams were not the only movers among the top sides. Korea DPR (10th) are back in the TOP 10 at the expense of Japan (11th), benefitting from the extension of the permissible period of inactivity from 18 to 48 months. For their part, Brazil (7th) gain one place while the Matildas (9th) lose two.
Following their victory over Ukraine (31st) and qualification for the next UEFA Women’s EURO, Northern Ireland (48th) have broken the 1500-point mark for the first time in their history. Nicaragua (118th) and Belarus (54th) enjoyed the two next best points’ gains (up 18.15 and 15.64 respectively).
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Leader USA (unchanged)
Moves into top 10 Korea DPR
Moves out of top 10 Japan
Matches played in total 94
Most matches played USA (7 matches)
Biggest move by points Northern Ireland (plus 37.56 points)
Biggest move by ranks Belarus (plus 2 rank)
Biggest drop by points Ukraine (minus 40.59 points)
Biggest drop by ranks Ukraine (minus 7 ranks) Andorra, Comoros, Aruba, Madagascar, Mauritius (minus 25 ranks)
Newly ranked teams 25 teams
Teams that are no longer ranked 26 teams