Italy climb in FIFA ranking after wins over Estonia and Israel

Italy’s victories over Estonia and Israel during the international break have helped push them one place higher in the latest FIFA World Ranking, moving up to ninth.

Gennaro Gattuso’s side strengthened their position with back-to-back wins that kept them on course for a play-off place in World Cup qualifying. With Norway still in control of top spot in Group I, Italy’s most realistic route to the tournament remains through March’s two-leg play-offs – where the ranking will determine the seeding.

The next update, due on November 21, will be the one that officially decides the pots for the draw. The Azzurri’s recent form has arrived at the perfect time to consolidate a place among the top seeds.

Pot 1: Italy, Turkey, Ukraine, Poland
Pot 2: Hungary, Scotland, Czech Republic, Slovakia
Pot 3: Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo
Pot 4: Wales, Romania, Sweden, Northern Ireland

Quick take: Match context: momentum and small details could decide this one, especially set-pieces and transitions. Form and fitness will matter; expect managers to rotate carefully around the congested schedule. We’ll keep an eye on confirmed details as the story develops from official sources.

FootXtra – Football News & Updates FootXtra brings you the latest football news, live updates, match previews, transfer stories, and in-depth analysis from leagues and tournaments around the world. Stay connected to the beautiful game every day.

Italy climb in FIFA ranking after wins over Estonia and Israel