david_smith
The Republic of Ireland have dropped to 34th in the FIFA rankings, dropping five places following the results against Georgia and Serbia.
The boys in green were ranked 23rd after that impressive win in Vienna, but have fallen 11 places in the time since that victory over Austria.
These rankings could have an effect on Ireland’s 2018 World Cup qualification hopes, as FIFA confirmed last week that the play-offs will be seeded based on world rankings.
Wales have moved up five places to 13th, which would put them as one of the top seeds in the World Cup play-offs if Chris Coleman’s side can finish as one of the eight best second-placed teams, and would mean they would avoid the likes of Italy and Portugal if they secure a play-off.
Wales have overtaken England, who have dropped to 15th place, and are now the highest-ranked British side.
Northern Ireland have risen three places to 20th, their highest ever ranking, and Michael O’Neill’s men are certain to qualify for the play-offs after back-to-back wins over San Marino and Czech Republic to seal second place in their World Cup qualifiers.
Germany, who are the only team to beat Northern Ireland in the qualifiers, have reclaimed their spot at the summit of the rankings, with Brazil dropping to second place.
Northern Ireland are now a staggering 109 places higher than they were five years ago.
Scotland have also jumped up the table, from 58th to 43rd place.
This article originally appeared on The Season Ticket.
