England move above France to third in FIFA world rankings

The Three Lions haven't been third since 2012

England have climbed above France into third position in Fifa's men's world rankings, equaling their highest position since the rankings were introduced.  Despite suffering defeat against Italy in the Euro 2020 final in July, Gareth Southgate's men bounced back earlier this month with convincing 4-0 victories against Hungary and Andorra, before drawing against Poland in Warsaw.  The Three Lions have moved above current World champions France who, despite being many people's pick to win the tournament, exited the European Championships at the Round of 16 stage. Didier Deschamps' side have dropped to fourth in the rankings - which were first introduced in December 1992 - after making a less than convincing start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, drawing twice and winning once. The last time that England were ranked third was in September 2012, under the management of Roy Hodgson. https://twitter.com/England/status/1438426520381448193 Although they were knocked out of the Euros by Italy at the Quarter-final stage, Belgium have remained at the top of the rankings, with Brazil - who lost to Argentina in the final of the Copa America in July - in second position. Wales have stayed inside the top 20, remaining in 19th position following a tight victory over Belarus, accompanied by draws against Finland and Estonia. There has also been a rise in places for both Scotland and Northern Ireland, with Steve Clarke's men moving up to 45th position, with the Green and White Army climbing up to 47th.

The Republic of Ireland, however, have dropped from 47th to 50th following their defeat against Portugal and draws with Azerbaijan and Serbia.

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