Spain is entering one of the biggest games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with momentum and one of the highest FIFA rankings in international football.
La Roja have come into the Round of 16 after an impressive group stage run, where they will face Portugal in an Iberian derby. Spain is still the favorite to win the World Cup with their stars Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Rodri, and Nico Williams.
Their current FIFA ranking is a testament to their status as one of the best national teams in the world, and it's no surprise that Luis de la Fuente's team is considered one of the best in the world.
What Is Spain's FIFA Ranking Before the World Cup Round of 16?
FIFA's latest official Men's World Ranking has Spain placed at No. 3 in the world.
Only France and Argentina sit above Spain in the global rankings, reflecting the consistency they have shown over the past two years. They secured their status as football's elite with their UEFA EURO 2024 victory, Nations League final, and strong World Cup qualifying campaign.
Spain was also one of the tournament favourites and has been playing superbly to meet the expectations. La Roja made their way through the World Cup with the possession-based football that has become their trademark.
Can Spain Beat Portugal in the Round of 16?
Although Spain is ranked higher than Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo's side is placed No. 7 in the FIFA rankings.
Portugal has one of the deepest squads in the tournament with Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Leão, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and João Neves. With individual brilliance, Portugal can take the game away from Spain. The Spaniards have a firsthand experience of the same at the Nations League Final.
The game also brings back one of the most intense rivalries in international football. Over the years, Spain and Portugal have had many memorable meetings, and it is not uncommon for the two teams to be separated by the narrowest of margins.
If Spain wins, they will keep alive the hopes of winning a second FIFA World Cup title and further bolster the argument that they are one of the world's top national teams.
