FIFA has released its latest Men’s World Rankings, and while Argentina continues to dominate at No. 1, the United States remains a notable presence, maintaining 16th place . With CONCACAF Gold Cup champions Mexico moving ahead to 13th and Canada rising to 28th, the U.S. stands as the top-ranked CONCACAF nation—just one spot above Mexico.
Despite a mixed recent run—with a disappointing Nations League exit in April—the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) remains steadfast at 16th, according to FIFA’s Elo-style rating system which dampens the impact of knockout losses.
Under coach Mauricio Pochettino, the team has also secured three Gold Cup titles (2019-20, 2022-23, 2023-24) and three Nations League trophies, solidifying its regional dominance.
Regional ambitions ahead of 2026
With the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, a strong ranking could lead to a seeded spot—ensuring an easier group stage draw Stars and Stripes FC. Pochettino’s side is determined to break into the top 10 before the tournament, continuing the upward momentum seen at the end of 2024, when the U.S. climbed from 18th to 16th following Nations League and Gold Cup performances.
What needs to happen
To improve their current standing, the USMNT must deliver strong results in upcoming friendlies—including matches against Turkey and Switzerland in June—and the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, where they aim to defend their regional title. Consistency will be key: fewer costly group-stage exits and more high-profile wins can help elevate the U.S. into the global top 15—or even the top 10.
As FIFA’s next update approaches in September, the eyes of American soccer fans will be firmly fixed on results that could boost the USMNT on the road to hosting history.
