Soccer

Ireland move up 12 places in latest Fifa world rankings

Martin O’Neill’s side now 42nd, 22 behind play-off rivals Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ireland have moved up to 42nd in the Fifa world rankings, largely thanks to their 1-0 win over Germany last month. Photograph: Getty
Thu Nov 05 2015 - 11:38

Ireland have risen 12 places to 42nd in the latest Fifa world rankings.

Martin O’Neill’s side are now the highest they have been since 2012, and their move up the rankings is largely thanks to their famous 1-0 win over world champions Germany in Dublin last month.

Ireland take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in a Euro 2016 play-off next week and will go into the two-legged tie ranked 22 places below their opponents.

Wins over Wales, Cyprus, Luxembourg and a friendly draw with France have seen Mehmed Baždarevic’s side move up 10 places from 30th to 20th position.

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Elsewhere Belgium are now ranked the best side in the world for the first time in their history having leapfrogged Argentina and Germany into top spot.

Meanwhile Ireland’s 2018 World Cup qualification rivals Wales have dropped out of the top 10.

Chris Coleman’s side are now 15th despite wins over Bulgaria, Switzerland and Andorra.