FIFA has released its latest world rankings and leads to questions about the American men’s national team (USMNT) and its star player, Christian Pulisic, has taken a hit after a disappointing Concacaf Nations League campaign. After suffering two consecutive defeats in March, many wondered if these losses would see the United States sink from its place in the top 20.
Surprisingly, the latest rankings tell another story.
Despite back-to-back losses Panama (1-0 in the semi-finals) and Canada (2-1 in third place the match) have been ostitiated as 16th place in the world In FIFA’s update of April.
This may come as a shock to some fans, given It was the first time since 2019 that the United States had lost consecutive matches against the Concacaf Opposition. FIFA’s ranking system, which, however, was revised in 2018 to one ELO formulaplayed a crucial role in preventing a decline in the ranking.
The formula Does not pay significantly law for losses in knockout rounds of official tournamentstreats them as neutral results instead of direct defeat. This approach spared USMNT from losing points despite its nation’s League disappointmentSo that they can keep their place as the highest ranked team in Concacaf.
Stay before Mexico – at the moment
Although the United States succeeded Hold their position at 16thCompetition within Concacaf remains fierce. Mexico, who won the Concacaf Nations League for the first time, has climbed a place to the 17th and closed the gap on its regional rivals.
Second Concacaf -Team also saw movement, as Canada moved up to 30th places) After their third place. In the meantime, Panama climbed to 33rd (+3 seats)Thanks to their semi -final win over the United States, Costa Rica remained 54thshowing no change and Jamaica (63rd) rounds off Concacaf’s top six nations.
What is next for USMNT?
Mauricio Pochettino will have the opportunity to improve the team’s ranking in the coming months. Their next test comes in June, when hosting the 27th ranked turkey and 20-ranked Switzerland in friendly matches.
In addition to these fixtures, All eyes will be on 2025 Concacaf Gold Cupthat will serve as a crucial competition for the reason 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the United States will be co-hosts along with Mexico and Canada.
With Three host nations competing for a sought -after sowing position in the World CupUSMNT must ensure that they remain within the nine best teams globally to maximize their chances for a favorable group steps.
