Canada pose for a team photo prior to first half international soccer action against Mexico in Montreal on June 1, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes
Canada has climbed one spot to No. 8 in the latest FIFA women's world rankings. Spain retains the top position, while France achieves a career-high second place, displacing England. Germany moves up to No. 4, pushing the U.S. down to No. 5. Sweden and Japan hold steady at No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. Brazil rises one spot to No. 9, and North Korea also moves up in the top 10.
In recent matches, Canada defeated and drew with Mexico (2-0 and 1-1), contributing to their upward movement in the rankings since mid-March. This marks the second consecutive period that Canada has improved its ranking under coach Bev Priestman, following a disappointing World Cup showing that saw them ranked 10th at the end of 2023.
Canada's highest-ever FIFA ranking is No. 4, achieved after winning bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics. They last held this position in March 2018.
Looking ahead, Canada will defend its Olympic title starting July 25 against New Zealand, ranked No. 28. They will then face France on July 28 and Colombia, ranked No. 22, on July 31.
FIFA notes that 154 international matches have been played since the March rankings, including qualifiers for the Paris Olympics and UEFA Women's Euro 2025. Montenegro (up four to No. 85) and El Salvador (up seven to No. 90) made significant moves, while North Macedonia (up 12 to No. 123) showed the most improvement following victories over Latvia and Moldova.
The next FIFA women’s world ranking update is scheduled for August 16.
