The international window is over, and it has not been easy for Portugal. Last week, on the eve of facing Denmark against Copenhagen in the Nations League, Cristiano Ronaldo slammed the door on the national team. The Portuguese striker and captain (41) said he was upset by Jorge Jesus’ lack of respect towards him.
A clap of thunder which, although it shook the federation, did not seem to disturb the group too much. Falling Wales with “CR7” (1-0), the Seleçao then beat Norway (2-1), Denmark (4-2) and again the teammates of Erling Haaland (3-1) without him. Proof that even “someone of the stature of Pelé or Maradona” is not always essential.
Portugal enters the top 5 of the FFA ranking
With this full success, Portugal not only validates its ticket for the quarter-finals of the competition, but it also achieves a very good performance in the FIFA rankings. These four successes effectively allow him to pocket 19.84 additional points, which brings his total to 1807.69 points and allows him to gain two ranks in the world hierarchy.
Bruno Fernandes’ partners are now in fifth place, ahead of Brazil (1806.51 points) and Morocco (1805.34 points). They are only ahead of England (1925.59 points), France (1958.86 points), Argentina (1972.80 points) and Spain (2011.57 points). A great dynamic to be confirmed in November. With or without Cristiano Ronaldo?
The top 10 of the FIFA rankings
1. Spain – 2011.57 pts
2. Argentina – 1972.80 pts
3. France – 1958.86 pts
4. England – 1925.59 pts
5. Portugal – 1807.69 pts
6. Brazil – 1806.51 pts
7. Morocco – 1805.34 pts
8. Belgium – 1779.17 pts
9. Netherlands – 1778.61 pts
10. Mexico – 1738.48 pts
