Norway became the biggest climber in the latest FIFA rankings following its run to the quarterfinal at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup 2026.

Erling Haaland led the Nordic nation’s charge with seven goals in five matches, two of them coming against five-time champion Brazil in the Round of 16.

Norway’s run, however, came to an end against England in the quarters, with Jude Bellingham grabbing a brace to win the tie 2-1 after extra time. Despite the loss, the run to the final eight marked Norway’s best-ever performance at the World Cup, in its first appearance since 1998.

This meant that Norway jumped 12 places in the FIFA rankings and now sits in 19th in the standings.

Meanwhile Spain leads the rankings after defeating defending champion 1-0 Argentina in the final to secure its second title.

Published on Jul 21, 2026