Japan Retain Top Spot in Asia as Iran Climb Rankings

Japan will head into the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Asia’s highest-ranked nation after maintaining its position at the top of the continent in the latest FIFA World Ranking released on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Iran enjoyed a rise in the standings, breaking into the global top 20 ahead of the tournament. The improvement provides a timely boost as the continent’s representatives prepare to begin their World Cup campaigns on football’s biggest stage.