Australia up two in the rankings

The Qantas Socceroos have moved a step closer to a top ten position in the FIFA World Rankings, jumping two places to 14th.

The Qantas Socceroos have moved a step closer to a top ten position in the FIFA World Rankings, jumping two places to 14th.

The 3-0 whitewash of Republic of Ireland in August was the only match played by Australia in the latest rankings period, but was enough to earn them 11 points. Both Denmark and Switzerland dropped points and fell below Australia, while Portugal still remains in 17th position.

Australia consistency at international level has been the main reason for the rise in the rankings, but face some stern tests in the next month with matches against Korea Republic on Saturday September 5 in Seoul and then a match-up against The Netherlands in Sydney on October 10, followed by an Asian Cup qualifier against Oman in Melbourne four days later.

Japan is the next highest Asian Football Confederation nation at number 40, while Korea Republic is 49 and the only other team in the top 50.

Brazil maintained its lead at the top of the rankings, but lost ground to Spain. There was little change in the top 10, with Italy (4th) and Croatia (9th) jumping one spot each.