Wales break into world's top 10, one place below England

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 09 July 2015

Wales, ranked 117th in the world four years ago, break into FIFA's top 10 for the first time on the back of an unbeaten start to Euro 2016 qualifying.

Wales have continued their remarkable climb up the FIFA world rankings by breaking into the top 10 for the first time.

The Dragons, who were as low as 117th in August 2011, are now just one place below England, who have themselves moved up six spots following an unbeaten campaign.

Under the watch of Chris Coleman, Wales have continued to rise up the rankings, with last month's 1-0 victory over Belgium helping them maintain their unbeaten start to Euro 2016 qualifying.

Speaking to BBC Sport, assistant boss Osian Roberts said: "It's a remarkable achievement but it's testimony to all the hard work the players have put in.

"They turn up for every camp, they work hard and buy into the game plan. They deserve every credit us where we are in terms of the rankings although we are fully aware in many ways it counts for nothing - it's about qualifying."

Fellow home nation Scotland drop one place to 29th, while Northern Ireland climb seven to 37th.

Elsewhere, beaten Copa America finalists Argentina top the rankings, ahead of Germany, Belgium, Colombia and the Netherlands.