The first FIFA Women’s World Ranking of 2025 shows Japan returning to the top five, while Tanzania and Kenya make significant progress. The USA remains first, followed by Spain, Germany, and England. Noteworthy advancements are observed from various teams, with 196 teams participating and Djibouti debuting at 195th place. Upcoming rankings may further reflect African representation.
The inaugural FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking™ of 2025 has witnessed significant movements, with Japan returning to the top five, a position it has not held since 2015. Tanzania and Kenya have also made notable advancements in the rankings. This edition includes a record-high of 196 teams, marked by Djibouti’s debut at 195th place.
Despite suffering a loss to Japan in the SheBelieves Cup final, the United States maintains its leading position at No. 1. Following the USA are Spain at 2nd, Germany at 3rd, and England at 4th. Japan’s ascension to 5th position is attributed to a three-place improvement, pushing Sweden to 6th, Canada to 7th, and Brazil to 8th, each dropping one spot. Korea DPR and the Netherlands retain their positions at 9th and 10th, respectively.
In addition to the top-ranked teams, several nations have made impressive progress. Puerto Rico now sits at 81st (up 4), Montenegro at 84th (up 4), and El Salvador at 85th (up 5). Nepal has climbed to 99th (up 4), UAE to 112th (up 4), Cabo Verde to 125th (up 4), and Cyprus to 127th (up 6).
Tanzania and Kenya are highlighted as the most significant gainers, each rising seven places to be ranked 138th and 142nd, respectively. Other African nations such as Burkina Faso (132nd, up 5) and Benin (147th, up 5) have also made notable advances.
Looking ahead to the June rankings, further representation from Africa is expected, as Chad, Eritrea, Libya, and Sudan are on the verge of their inaugural appearances. The current FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ African qualifiers are anticipated to provoke more changes in the global ranking landscape.
In summary, the 2025 FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking has produced remarkable outcomes, including Japan’s impressive rise to the top five and noteworthy gains for Tanzania and Kenya. With an increasing number of teams participating, the next rankings are likely to witness even more changes as African nations strive for recognition on the global stage during the upcoming qualifiers for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.
Original Source: www.nation.com.pk
