The first FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking of 2025 has been released. With 196 teams now officially ranked, this edition showcases new entries, impressive climbs, and a few surprises that reveal the shifting dynamics of the women’s international game as it continues to rapidly develop.
The United States remain at the top of the rankings despite a 2-1 loss to Japan in the SheBelieves Cup final. Although the reigning Olympic champions suffered a setback, they hold on to their top position for the time being.
Japan, on the other hand, made the most significant move in this release, climbing three places to 5th – their highest ranking since December 2015. It’s a remarkable leap that underscores Japan’s growing strength on the world stage, having already punched a hole in Emma Hayes’ supposedly bulletproof USWNT.
The top four spots remain unchanged, with World Cup champions Spain (2nd), Germany (3rd), and England (4th) staying in pursuit of USA. Sweden (6th), Canada (7th), and Brazil (8th) each slip one place, while Korea DPR (9th) and the Netherlands (10th) hold steady, completing the top 10.
While the top of the rankings remains relatively stable, it’s the lower half of the table where the most movement has occurred. Tanzania and Kenya both made the biggest gains, each rising seven spots — the largest climb in this edition.
Meanwhile, teams like Puerto Rico, Montenegro, El Salvador, and Nepal have all seen solid improvements, reflecting the continued development of women’s football in regions that are steadily making their mark on the global stage.
In Africa, Burkina Faso and Benin have also made notable strides, each moving up five spots. However, it’s Tanzania and Kenya that have truly captured attention, with their rapid ascents serving as a sign of the growing competitive spirit across the continent as investment and interest reaches new highs in the continent.
Elsewhere, Djibouti makes its debut in the rankings, entering at 195th. With 196 teams now in the standings, this marks another milestone for the global game, highlighting the growing depth and reach of women’s football.
Looking ahead, the next FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking will be published on June 12, 2025.