LOOK: PH reaches highest FIFA men’s football ranking in history

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is officially the 113th best team in the world. 

With the Azkals’ qualification to the Asian Cup last March 27, the Philippine Men’s National Football team jumped from 122 to 113 with 289 points this April 2018. Other than the qualification, the Azkals’ victories over Tajikistan in the Asian Cup qualifier and over Fiji  in the international “A” friendly contributed to the leap. 

This happened. #113

We’re just getting started #OneBlood  pic.twitter.com/XHaoQZ2wBX

— The Azkals (@TheAzkalsPH) April 12, 2018

Within Asia, however, the Philippines is ranked at number 19 behind North Korea. Iran, Australia and Japan are the top 3 Asian teams despite making a slight dip in their world rankings. 

FIFA RANKING AFC MEMBER NATIONS APRIL 2018

Iran,  Australia and  Japan are the top Asian nations, while  Kyrgyz Republic makes a huge jump up the rankings.

What do you think of the latest standings? pic.twitter.com/lK1FDWEPfJ

— FOX Sports Asia (@FOXSportsAsia) April 12, 2018

The Philippines’ new ranking puts the Azkals in Pot 4 of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup in United Arab Emirates. The draw will take place on May 4 in Dubai. 

Seedings for #AsianCup2019 have been finalised. 24 nations set to learn their opponents when the Final Draw takes place on May 4 in Dubai! pic.twitter.com/HgZVyczj54

— #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) April 12, 2018

– Rappler.com