Wednesday, May 26, 2010

The hosts of this summer's World Cup have climbed more places than any other team...

By Stefan Coerts

There were only minor changes in the latest FIFA World Rankings, as only around 20 international friendlies have taken place in the past couple of weeks.

The battle for top spot between Brazil and European champions Spain continues, with the South Americans still having the edge. The two retain a clear lead over the chasing pack of Portugal, Netherlands and Italy.

Croatia still occupy 10th spot in the rankings, but the Europeans are likely to lose ground after the World Cup due to their absence from this summer's showpiece. Number 11 Russia won't be present in South Africa either and will also likely drop places.

Meanwhile, World Cup hosts South Africa have received a boost. They not only won two friendly matches, but they also gained seven places in the ranking to leap to 83rd spot. No other team climbed as many positions as the South Africans.

The next FIFA World Rankings will be published three days after this summer's World Cup final, on July 14.


Source: http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2010/05/26/1943492/south-africa-climb-seven-places-in-fifa-world-rankings

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