The positive results in September, especially the 3-0 win over Cyprus at home, in the World Cup 2022 European Qualifier propelled Malta to the 171st place from 177th, an ascent of 6 places. The Latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings were released on the 16th of September, following no fewer than 152 FIFA World Cup qualifying games and 25 friendlies across the globe
Led by coach Devis Mangia, Malta have registered a win over Cyprus, and two defeats against Slovenia (1-0) and Russia (2-0) in September. After playing six matches, Malta sit in fifth place and have gained a total of four points so far in the World Cup 2022 European Qualifiers – Group H. With the six places gained, Malta has been included in the list of the best progressions in this edition, the only country that has made more progress than Malta is Libya (110, +12). Belgium are still perched on top of the rankings, followed by Brazil who have consolidated their second place. After an absence of nine years England have returned to the podium, swapping positions with France who have slid down to 4th place following mixed results in World Cup 2022 European Qualfiiers. Euro 2020 winners Italy sit comfortably in 5th place. Despite the lack of movement in the top ten places, Denmark have made their return to the top ten (10, + 1). Argentina stay in 6th place, while Portugal (7, + 1) and Spain (8, - 1) swap positions. The next FIFA World Ranking will be published on the 21st of October 2021.