Belgium moved ahead of Germany into second place in the updated FIFA rankings released yesterday after the world champions had points devalued from last year’s triumph in Brazil.

Argentina still top the rankings ahead of the European duo, with Chile, who beat Gerardo Martino’s side in the final of the Copa America last month, moving back into the top 10 at the expense of Netherlands, who fell seven places to 12th.

Wales have climbed to ninth place, their highest ever position. Chris Coleman’s men, who are unbeaten in Euro 2016 qualifying, are ranked above the likes of Spain, Holland and Chile and just one below England.

Mexico rocketed up 14 places in the rankings to 26th after they lifted their seventh Gold Cup last month, while beaten finalists Jamaica moved up 21 places to 55th after their surprise run.

Mexico now are the top rated side in the CONCACAF region, with Algeria (19th) leading the way in Africa, Iran (41st) in Asia and New Zealand (135th) in Oceania.

Austria (14th), Slovakia (14th), Albania (22nd), Congo (43rd) and Guam (146th) also achieved their best ever ranking.

Meanwhile, Malta are ranked 159th, down one place from last month’s position.

Pietro Ghedin’s team, who were not in action last month, have 157 ranking points.

Italy, Malta’s next opponents in the Euro 2016 qualifying trek on September 3, moved up one place to 16th.

Three days after the match in Florence, Malta take on Azerbaijan at home. The Azeris are classified 106th in the latest FIFA rankings.

Top 10 nations
1. Argentina 1,425; 2. Belgium 1,244; 3. Germany 1,226; 4. Colombia 1,218; 5. Brazil 1,186; 6. Portugal 1,177; 7. Romania 1,166; 8. England 1,157; 9. Wales 1,155; 10. Chile 1,124.