Italy are on the way up and finish the year in 13th place in the FIFA World Rankings of women’s national teams. The Azzurre, who kept their 2020 Euro hopes alive after a draw with Denmark, follow Spain and are just ahead of the Danes themselves.

The reigning world champions the United States maintain their grip on top spot, extending their points advantage over Germany and France. The Netherlands are in fourth, while Sweden also maintain their position in fifth. In fact, the Top Ten remains virtually unchanged, the only new entry being Japan in tenth. England and Australia are still sixth and seventh respectively, followed by Brazil and Canada.

Further back, it’s worth noting that Malta have climbed 37 positions to 85th, thanks in no small part to Haley Bugeja, the young Sassuolo star who was been among the very best player in Serie A Femminile this season.

The Top 15 in the FIFA World Rankings

1) USA 2192 points (-)
2) Germany 2091 points (-)
3) France 2032 points (-)
4) Netherlands 2023 points (-)
5) Sweden 2009 points (-)
6) England 1999 points (-)
7) Australia 1963 points (-)
8) Brazil 1958 points (-)
9) Canada 1958 points (-)
10) Japan 1937 points (+1)
11) Norway 1932 points (+1)
12) Spain 1919 points (+1)
13) ITALY 1877 points (+1)
14) Denmark 1868 points (+2)
15) China 1867 points (-)