Republic up to 13th in FIFA World Rankings

The Republic of Ireland has risen two places, to 13th spot, in the FIFA World Soccer Rankings, released today.

The Republic of Ireland has risen two places, to 13th spot, in the FIFA World Soccer Rankings, released today.

Brian Kerr's side are in joint 13th position with Cameroon, each on 710 points. Brazil is rated number one, on 846 points, with France and Spain in second and third places.

England lie in the eighth position, rising two places in the rankings since they were last compiled in May.

According to FIFA, the standings are based on a statistical analysis of countries' results over eight years, weighted according to how recently the matches were played, the strength of the opponents and the importance of each match.