Canada’s men’s soccer team capped off the year with impressive momentum, closing out with three straight wins and remaining undefeated in their last five matches (four wins, one draw). Earlier this month, they secured back-to-back victories over Suriname in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals, winning 3-0 and 1-0. Their overall record for the year stands at six wins, three losses, and five draws. (Frank Gunn/Canadian Press/File)
The Canadian men’s national soccer team has climbed to its highest-ever FIFA world ranking, reaching the 31st spot. This milestone comes after an impressive run in recent months, showcasing the team's growing dominance on the international stage. Previously, their highest rank was No. 33 in February 2022, achieved under then-coach John Herdman following an undefeated streak in the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers. Notably, FIFA recognized Canada as the "Most Improved Side" in 2021.
This rise is particularly remarkable when compared to October 2014, when Canada hit an all-time low, ranked 122nd globally. The team's 2024 journey began at 48th, briefly slipping to 50th in February. The turning point came with Jesse Marsch's appointment as coach in May. Under his guidance, the team has steadily climbed, reaching 48th, 40th, 38th, 35th, and now 31st.
Canada’s latest ranking comes after back-to-back wins over Suriname in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals earlier this month. These victories, 3-0 and 1-0 respectively, contributed to the team’s rise and marked two of the 192 matches played during the recent international window. Canada now sits between Hungary and Serbia in the rankings.
Globally, the top five teams remain unchanged: Argentina leads, followed by France, Spain, England, and Brazil. However, Argentina's lead over France and Spain has narrowed. Portugal and the Netherlands advanced to sixth and seventh, respectively, pushing Belgium to eighth. Italy held onto ninth, while Germany climbed into the top 10. Uruguay made significant progress, rising to 11th, while Colombia dropped to 12th.
In CONCACAF, the United States overtook Mexico to rank 16th, with Mexico falling to 19th. Canada remains the region's third-best team.
Canada’s success has been marked by a five-game unbeaten streak, ending the year with a 4-0-1 record in their last five matches. Their overall 2024 record stands at 6-3-5, with one draw turning into a penalty loss against Uruguay and another resulting in a win over Venezuela in the Copa America.
Beyond Canada, Romania, Norway, and Scotland also made strides in the rankings, while Niger climbed nine spots to 122nd after impressive Africa Cup of Nations qualifying performances. Zambia, Guyana, Kosovo, and Comoros also had notable improvements. On the other hand, Nigeria, Congo, and Sierra Leone experienced significant drops.
The Canadian women’s team, meanwhile, continues to perform strongly, holding the sixth spot in FIFA's rankings.
