Soccer: Republic of Ireland up to 21st in FIFA rankings

The Republic of Ireland's superb 1-0 victory over Holland has seen Mick McCarthy's team jump four places in FIFA's official rankings to 21.

Portugal, who top our World Cup qualifying group, have overtaken Spain and now occupy fifth while Holland, who are eliminated from World Cup contention after their defeat in Dublin, are still in the top 10 at eight.

England’s 5-1 victory in Germany has helped them into the top 10.

Germany have tumbled out of the elite sides and are now ranked 12th, after falling seven places.

World and European Champions France continue to be the world’s top team and Argentina have closed the gap on second placed Brazil.

FIFA's top 10 (previous position in brackets):

1 (1) France , 2 (2) Brazil, 3 (3) Argentina , 4 (4) Italy, 5 (9) Portugal , 6 (7) Spain , 7 (6) Colombia , 8 (10) Netherlands, 9 (15) England , 10 (12) Mexico.