Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025: Magic Messi's last world cup?

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 has sent shockwaves through the football world, as Lionel Messi’s Argentina is set to lose their No. 1 FIFA World Ranking position after a 1-0 defeat to Ecuador on September 10, 2025, in their final CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier. Despite securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the loss, without Messi in the lineup, will see Argentina slip to third place in the FIFA rankings update on September 18, 2025, ending a remarkable two-year-and-five-month reign at the top.

Messi Argentina FIFA Ranking Drop 2025: Argentina to Lose No. 1 Spot After Ecuador Defeat

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 stems from Argentina’s surprising 1-0 loss to Ecuador in Guayaquil, marking the end of their 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying campaign. Without Lionel Messi, who rested after scoring a brace in a 3-0 win over Venezuela on September 4, 2025, Lionel Scaloni’s squad struggled. Enner Valencia’s 31st-minute goal, coupled with Nicolás Otamendi’s red card, disrupted Argentina’s rhythm, despite their 58% possession and 1.4 expected goals (xG). The defeat, Argentina’s second in 18 qualifiers, did not affect their top spot in the CONMEBOL standings with 22 points, but it cost them dearly in the FIFA rankings.

Spain’s dominant performances in UEFA qualifiers—3-0 over Bulgaria and 6-0 over Turkey—propelled them to 1875.37 points, overtaking Argentina’s 1870.32 after a 15.04-point deduction. France, with wins over Ukraine (2-0) and Iceland (2-1), climbed to 1870.92 points, securing second place. The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 places them third, ending a streak that began in April 2023 after their 2022 World Cup triumph. Fans expressed disappointment online, with one tweeting, “No Messi, no No. 1—Argentina needs their captain!”

Historical Context of Argentina’s Reign

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 marks the end of a historic 29-month reign at No. 1, totaling 1,498 days across all stints since March 2007. This places Argentina fifth all-time for the longest periods at the top, trailing Brazil’s record 6 years and 8 months (July 1994–April 2001), Brazil’s second stint of 4 years and 7 months (June 2002–January 2007), Belgium’s 3 years and 4 months (October 2018–February 2022), and Spain’s 2 years and 9 months (September 2011–June 2014). Argentina fell just four months short of Spain’s record, a testament to their dominance under Scaloni.

Fueled by the 2021 Copa América, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 World Cup, and 2024 Copa América titles, Argentina’s run saw them amass 1,886 points by April 2025, with victories over Uruguay (1-0) and Brazil (4-1) without Messi. The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 highlights the competitive nature of FIFA rankings, where qualifier wins (worth 25 points) outweigh friendlies (10 points), giving Spain and France an edge with their UEFA schedules.

Factors Behind the Ranking Shift

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 was driven by several factors. Messi’s absence, due to a planned rest, disrupted Argentina’s attack, with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez failing to convert three big chances. Otamendi’s 31st-minute red card forced a defensive reshuffle, exposing vulnerabilities, as Ecuador’s 0.9 xG translated into a clinical goal. Spain’s 9-0 aggregate scoreline and France’s four points from two matches capitalized on FIFA’s points-based system, which penalizes losses heavily in competitive fixtures.

Scaloni’s squad rotation, resting key players like Ángel Di María and Alexis Mac Allister, prioritized long-term fitness for the 2026 World Cup but cost short-term ranking points. The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 also reflects the rise of Spain, who, under Luis de la Fuente, won Euro 2024 and lead UEFA Group E with 6 points, driven by Lamine Yamal and Pedri. France’s consistency, despite a UEFA Nations League loss to Croatia, further narrowed the gap, with Kylian Mbappé’s two goals against Iceland boosting their tally.

Implications for Argentina and Messi

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 raises questions about Argentina’s momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup. With Messi, now 38, uncertain about his participation—stating post-Venezuela, “It’s only logical to think I might not play”—Argentina face a transition. Their 16 Copa América titles and 2022 World Cup triumph solidify their pedigree, but the Finalissima against Spain in March 2026 could be pivotal. A win could reclaim the No. 1 spot, as friendlies offer fewer points but boost prestige.

Messi’s 114 international goals, including a 2025 brace against Venezuela, keep him central, but Scaloni’s depth—Álvarez (12 goals in qualifiers), Martínez (9), and Emiliano Martínez’s goalkeeping—ensures resilience. The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 may motivate the squad, with fans posting, “Third place? Argentina will fight back with Messi!”

Global Ranking Landscape

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 reshapes the top 10. Spain (1875.37 points) lead, followed by France (1870.92), Argentina (1870.32), England (1819.20), and Brazil (1776.03). The Netherlands (1752.44), Portugal (1750.00), Belgium (1735.75), Italy (1718.31), and Germany (1716.98) complete the list. Portugal’s rise, driven by Ronaldo’s three goals in two qualifiers, contrasts with Argentina’s slip. The next update, set for September 18, 2025, will confirm these shifts, with no major fixtures until November friendlies.

Conclusion: Argentina’s New Challenge

The Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 marks the end of a glorious No. 1 reign, as Argentina slip to third after their Ecuador loss. Spain and France’s UEFA dominance highlights the global race, but Argentina’s World Cup pedigree and Messi’s potential return keep them formidable. Can they reclaim the top spot in the Finalissima? Share your thoughts on the Messi Argentina FIFA ranking drop 2025 below!

World Cup 2026, 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗪𝗘 𝗚𝗢! 🏆🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/pDkouO36yq

— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) September 10, 2025

FAQs: Messi Argentina FIFA Ranking Drop 2025

Why did Argentina lose the No. 1 FIFA ranking?
Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Ecuador, without Messi, and Spain and France’s UEFA qualifier wins led to the drop to third place.
When is the next FIFA ranking update?
The update is scheduled for September 18, 2025.
Who will be No. 1 after Argentina’s drop?
Spain, with 1875.37 points, will take the top spot, followed by France at 1870.92.
How long was Argentina No. 1?
Argentina held the No. 1 spot for 29 months, from April 2023 to September 2025.
What’s next for Argentina?
Argentina face Spain in the Finalissima in March 2026 and plan friendlies in November 2025.