Brazil jump to second in FIFA rankings

Brazil's Willian celebrates with teammates after scoring during World Cup 2018 Qualifiers at Metropolitano Stadium, Merida, Venezuela, Oct 11, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

RIO DE JANEIRO -- Five-time World Cup winners Brazil rose to second place as they closed the gap on leaders Argentina in the latest FIFA rankings published on Thursday.

Brazil were rewarded for winning their past six CONMEBOL group World Cup qualifiers by moving up one place in the standings.

The Selecao usurped Germany, who slipped to third despite winning each of their first four World Cup qualifiers by an aggregate of 16 goals.

Argentina, fifth in the CONMEBOL standings with just five wins from 12 matches, remain the world's top team but have seen their lead slashed to 90 points from 156 points in October.

Copa America champions Chile were the biggest movers inside the top 10, climbing two places to fourth.

The Republic of Ireland jumped 10 places to 23rd on the back of three straight World Cup qualifying wins.

FIFA rankings

1. Argentina

2. Brazil

3. Germany

4. Chile

5. Belgium

6. Colombia

7. France

8. Portugal

9. Uruguay

10. Spain