In the concluding FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking of 2023, Argentina maintain its stronghold as the reigning world champions, securing the coveted first position.
The rankings, released after only 11 men’s international matches since November, reveal a relatively stable landscape, with minimal changes due to the limited game activity.
Argentina, crowned FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ champions a year ago, finishes 2023 at the pinnacle, with France and England completing the year-end podium in 2nd and 3rd places, respectively. The top 13 positions show little significant movement.
Colombia (14th, up 1) gains ground in the rankings after securing victories against Venezuela (50th, down 1) and Mexico (15th, down 1) in friendly matches.
While Colombia rises, the Venezuelans manage to maintain their position within the year-end top 50, showing resilience despite the drop.
In a remarkable ascent, Panama (41st) claims the title of the year’s most improved team, holding onto their 41st position with an impressive 83.92-point increase.
Their remarkable climb of 20 spots over the year is surpassed only by Moldova (155th, up 19 places and 63.72 points) and Malaysia (130th, up 15 places and 56.27 points).
Celebrating success at the Pacific Games, New Caledonia concludes 2023 on a high note, rising one spot to 159th. Additionally, Fiji (168th, up 2), Tahiti (163rd, up 1), and Samoa (186th, up 1) experience positive movements in the rankings.
Notably, American Samoa and Tonga make their comeback to the FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking, marking a positive turn for Polynesian football after a challenging period.
