Ireland remain 12th in world rankings

The Republic of Ireland remain in 12^th place in FIFA’s first rankings of 2005.

With very few internationals over the last month, a move in the rankings would have been a huge surprise. However, what is significant is that Ireland have climbed two places from 14^th in the last 12 months — no small matter considering Ireland were not involved in the European Championships last summer.

With more points on offer in major tournaments, it could have been expected that Ireland might slip down the rankings though away draws in competitive matches with Switzerland and France, added to impressive victories over the Netherlands and the Czech Republic saw Ireland rise in the rankings instead.

World Champions Brazil remain top with, Ireland’s World Cup qualification group four rivals, France second while Portugal — Ireland’s opponents in February 9^th’s Lansdowne Road friendly — are in ninth.

Ireland’s next competitive opponents Israel remain in 49^th place while other group rivals Switzerland are 51^st, Cyprus are 109^th and the Faroe Islands are 132^nd.

Closer to home, Northern Ireland are joint 109^th with Cyprus, Scotland are 86^th, Wales are 68^th and England remain eighth.