Ireland 14th in world rankings

THE Republic of Ireland, with 714 points, have stayed in 14th place in the latest FIFA rankings.

World champions Brazil lead the way in first place on 847 points with European champions Greece tied with Japan for 17th place on 703 points.

Ireland’s current World Cup qualifying opponents have mixed fortunes. France are ranked 2nd but Switzerland are 45th, one behind Iraq. Israel are 55th, Cyprus are in 105th spot and the Faroe Islands are 130th.