SPORTS GIST: FIFA Men's Ranking Explained, Why Agentina Isn't Rated No 1
FIFA Rankings Explained: The latest FIFA rankings have been released following the 2022 World Cup and there are some big changes as teams surge up and down the list. Cameroon gained 28.86 points to move up 10 places, Argentina gained 64.5 to move to 2nd while Brazil lost only 0.53 points to stay 1st. Summarily, teams gain and lose points in the rankings based on clearcut parameters. The calibre of opponent faced is a key criterion. This explains why Cameroon's lone win against Brazil enabled the Indomitable Lions move from 43rd to 33rd. If Cameroon's lone win had come against a lowly ranked side, Cameroon would not have gained as many points. WHY ARGENTINA COULD NOT AMASS ENOUGH FIFA rules also indicate that a win inside regular time counts more than a win in extra time or penalties. Note that Argentina won two of their games on penalties. Also, FIFA stipulates that just like a win against a highly ranked side yields many points, a loss against a lowly ranked sid...