England have climbed four places to fourth in the latest World Cup 2026 team power rankings, following a helter-skelter victory against Mexico in the last 16. The rankings, compiled by polling six Guardian World Cup writers and editors, assess the 16 teams that competed in the round of 32 before the quarter-finals begin.
France Hold Top Spot
France remain at number one after a brutal encounter with Paraguay, where they faced aggressive tactics. No player retreated, using the intimidation as fuel. "To anyone who wants to go to war with us, this is what you should expect," said Rayan Cherki. France proved they possess steel and grit beyond their attacking flair.
Spain Unchanged at Second
Spain stay second after keeping a fifth consecutive clean sheet, shutting out Portugal. Mikel Merino came off the bench to score the winner, highlighting squad depth. Coach Luis de la Fuente praised substitutes: "Not just today, but the contribution in other games has been enormous."
Argentina Survive Scare
Argentina remain third after a dramatic comeback against Egypt. Trailing after Lionel Messi missed a penalty, they scored three goals in 13 minutes to win. Messi provided a goal and assist. Coach Lionel Scaloni said, "Whatever happens from here on, this team never stops believing, even when everything is against it."
England Soar to Fourth
England jumped four spots after a 10-man victory in the Azteca Stadium. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane led, but Jordan Pickford's saves and Dan Burn's blocks were crucial. Surviving 80,000 hostile fans showed resilience.
Morocco Fifth After Clinical Display
Morocco stay fifth after a 3-0 win over Canada, with three of four shots on target finding the net. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said, "We are no longer a surprise," but their adaptable style keeps them dangerous.
Norway Rise to Sixth
Norway climb one place after beating Brazil. Goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland saved a penalty, and Erling Haaland scored twice. Their organisation and danger from crosses make them feared.
Belgium Jump to Seventh
Belgium rose six spots after a dominant win over the USA. Coach Rudi Garcia dropped Kevin De Bruyne and Jérémy Doku, showing ruthlessness. Charles De Ketelaere scored a double. "Overturn this" was the message to the US after a sense of injustice.
Switzerland Eighth After Shootout Win
Switzerland move up four places after a penalty shootout win over Colombia. The absence of injured Johan Manzambi changed dynamics, but defensive rigidity prevailed.
Mexico Drop to Ninth
Mexico fell five spots after elimination. Coach Javier Aguirre said, "To dream and then fall like this hurts deeply, but the players should leave with their heads held high."
Egypt Rise to Tenth
Egypt climbed five places after a thrilling loss to Argentina. They matched the holders but faded late. The brutality of football ended their run.
Brazil Slip to 11th
Brazil dropped five places after losing to Norway. Their attack relied on Vinícius Júnior, and Neymar's introduction was puzzling. Coach Carlo Ancelotti faces questions.
Portugal 12th
Portugal fell one place after a loss to Spain. Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup ended in tears; he was toothless and rarely found by teammates.
Colombia 13th
Colombia dropped three places after scoring only twice in their last four matches. Composure lacked in front of goal and in the shootout.
USA 14th
USA fell five places after a meek display. The Folarin Balogun saga was a distraction. Donald Trump's motivational tactics failed.
Paraguay 15th
Paraguay rose one place after fouling and irritating France, but never tried to win. They lost via a penalty.
Canada 16th
Canada dropped two places after a 3-0 loss to Morocco. Coach Jesse Marsch claimed, "We were better than them," a minority opinion.
