The Canadian women’s soccer team has climbed one place to eighth in the latest FIFA rankings.

Spain still occupies first position while France has climbed to second place, the best in its history. Germany moved into fourth place, relegating the Americans to fifth.

Sweden and Japan follow, while Canada, Brazil and North Korea round out the top 10. The Netherlands slipped out of the top 10 for the first time in seven years, falling from eighth to 11th. .

The Canadians went 2-0 and drew 1-1 with Mexico since the last FIFA rankings in mid-March.

This is the second consecutive ranking period in which Canada has advanced. Bev Priestman’s side finished 2023 in 10th place, having dropped three places following a disappointing performance at the World Cup in Australia last summer.

Canada has never climbed higher than fourth place. The women’s team reached this personal best after winning the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Canadians also placed fourth in March 2018.

The Unifolié representatives will begin the defense of their Olympic title on July 25 against New Zealand. They will then cross swords with France on July 28 and Colombia on July 31.

The next women’s ranking period is scheduled for August 16.