Brasil's Dominance: Why Brazil Stays at Number One FIFA despite Argentina's Piala Dunia 2022 Win

WHAT'S GOING ON? Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to its first World Cup title since 1986, defeating France 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a thrilling final. This achievement was enough to lift the South American nation to the second spot, but Brazil remained at the top, despite crashing out to Croatia in the quarterfinals.

WHY IS BRAZIL NO.1 NOT ARGENTINA? In 2021, FIFA introduced a new algorithm to determine global rankings. The Elo method looks at points scored in actual competition matches recognized by FIFA, rather than averaging scores from a series of games. This change places less emphasis on friendlies, making tournament games more important.

FIFA's rules also note that a regular 90-minute victory is worth more points than matches decided by extra time or penalties. Argentina won two penalty shootout finals in getting to the top spot, but this does not count to their ranking. Meanwhile, a surprise loss to Saudi Arabia meant they lost 39 points.

Brazil, on the other hand, won three games and lost two, keeping them on level with their South American rivals. The only thing keeping Argentina ahead was two penalty shootout victories during regular time. However, FIFA does not award additional points for tournament wins, which applies to the World Cup, Copa America, and Finalissima, all of which Argentina won within 18 months.

TOP 10 COUNTRIES IN FIFA RANKINGS: These include the 2018 World Cup winner, France, Belgium, England, the Netherlands, Croatia, defending Euro champions Italy, Portugal, and Spain.

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