The FIFA rankings are experiencing notable shifts during the ongoing 2026 World Cup in North America, despite the official update not being released until July 20, after the tournament concludes. According to provisional rankings on FIFA's official website, France has ascended to the number one spot, surpassing Argentina, which now holds second place. Portugal, meanwhile, has fallen two spots, marking a significant change in the rankings.

France's rise is particularly striking, as they moved up two places following a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cape Verde, the reigning world champions. Spain remains in third place despite a 3-0 win against Austria in the Round of 16, although their earlier draw with Cape Verde impacted their points in the rankings.

Portugal's decline is attributed to two draws against the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Colombia, with a 2-1 win over Croatia not sufficient to offset the losses. Cristiano Ronaldo and Goncalo Ramos contributed two goals, earning Portugal an additional 23 points in FIFA's ranking system. However, under the guidance of coach Roberto Martinez, the team now sits in seventh place, two spots lower than when the World Cup began.

Looking ahead, Portugal is preparing for a challenging match against Spain, who currently ranks third in the provisional standings, indicating a tough battle ahead. Another highlight is Morocco, which has climbed one spot to sixth place after a convincing 3-0 victory over co-host Canada, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Brazil has also moved up one position to fifth, just behind England, which remains in fourth place.

Mexico has made the most significant leap within the top ten, rising four spots to rank tenth, following the Netherlands in eighth and Belgium in ninth, as they gear up for a match against England in the Round of 16.