Ireland climb one place in World Rankings

The Republic of Ireland have moved up one to 19th in the latest FIFA rankings following last week’s draw with the Czech Republic.

Holland have climbed up one place to second in the latest FIFA world rankings, which are still led by reigning world and European champions Spain.

Holland’s 3-2 friendly win over England last week saw them reclaim second spot back off Germany, who dropped to third after losing 2-1 at home to France on the same night. Germany had risen above Holland in the previous rankings.

Brazil’s 2-1 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina helped move them up two places to fifth, with England dropping to sixth and Portugal, who drew 0-0 with Poland, down to seventh.

Argentina are also on the rise and they are now eighth – up three spots – after Lionel Messi’s first international hat-trick helped them to 3-1 win over Switzerland.

Wales have dropped six to 48th, just in front of Scotland, who are joint 51st with Iran following a fall of three places, whilst Northern Ireland are now just one place ahead of Qatar in 87th.