Naharnet

Spain Tops FIFA Rankings, Brazil Sinks to No. 18

World Cup and European champion Spain has completed a full year atop the FIFA rankings, and Brazil has plummeted to No. 18.

The 2014 World Cup host has dropped while playing only non-competitive matches, and failed to win last month.

Brazil lost against Argentina, which remains at No. 3, and drew with Colombia, which rises to No. 5.

The rankings weigh a four-year results cycle, and Brazil dropped points from a 6-2 victory over Portugal in 2008.

Spain leads No. 2 Germany, with European Championship finalist Italy at No. 4. England is No. 6, and Europe fills all places through Switzerland at No. 12.

Ivory Coast is Africa's best at No. 14. Mexico is No. 15, and Japan leads Asia at No. 22.

Source: Associated Press


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