World Cup Power Rankings: France, Spain, Argentina, and England Proved Their Worth

At this stage of the World Cup, the differences between top teams are razor-thin. Picking which team ranks higher requires close scrutiny and attention to subtle details. It’s almost unheard of for a squad to reach the semifinals without having the capacity to win the whole tournament.

This year confirms that perfectly. The four semifinalists in FIFA’s rankings—all previous champions—have each been finalists multiple times over the past 15 years. The matchups now matter less because the winner will have to overcome two of these elite teams to claim the trophy. My rankings balance both who’s most likely to win and the overall quality on display.

1. France

France has held the top spot throughout most of the tournament. Their 2-0 quarterfinal victory against Morocco reinforced why. Even though it was the first time they didn’t dominate possession, they looked calm and controlled.

France exploited the space behind Achraf Hakimi repeatedly, a clear tactic given Mbappé’s role on the left and Hakimi’s attacking threat. It’s impressive how France adjusts their game simply but effectively to make the most of their star players.

Their challenge ahead is breaking down Spain’s pressing style. Still, France has the highest ceiling of the remaining teams. A high-scoring France-Spain match is possible, but if one side dominates, it’s probably France.

2. Spain

Spain could just as easily hold the number one rank. They’ve allowed only one goal so far and boast the lowest expected goals against (1.8) along with the weakest shot quality conceded (0.05 xG per shot). Offensively, they lead with 11 goals and a tournament-high 11.7 non-penalty expected goals.

Spain’s press forces opponents into errors, shown by 56% of their possessions starting in middle or attacking thirds—the highest among quarterfinalists. While their attack may not be firing on all cylinders yet, their stats rival France’s closely. Spain’s midfield depth outshines France, though France’s forwards carry more star power.

The semifinal in Dallas should be thrilling. If Spain pulls off a win, it would be a slight upset, yet both teams remain favorites to win the final versus England or Argentina.

3. England

England climbs a spot after securing their third straight knockout win by just one goal. Winning tight matches can be a strength if it reflects resilience rather than luck—and England seems to have reached that point.

Thomas Tuchel’s tactics and the versatility of England’s players enable them to succeed in varied ways. They solved Congo DR’s low block, survived being a man down against Mexico, and kept Erling Haaland quiet against Norway.

Facing Argentina presents new hurdles, especially with Lionel Messi on the pitch. England’s aerial advantage could be key on both ends. With talents like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham capable of changing any match, plus midfielders who can attack centrally or from wide areas, England can win with defense or offense.

Though France and Spain have often played at a slightly higher level this tournament, England remains close behind.

4. Argentina

Argentina slips one place after narrowly edging Switzerland 3-1 with a late goal from Lautaro Martínez. Like England, winning close games matters, but how those wins come about also counts.

Argentina leads the tournament with 16 non-penalty goals but ranks fourth in expected goals (10.4), boosted by extra-time minutes. Their attacking options seem less varied compared to others.

The team struggles to attack with width since they lack explosive wingers, sending just 78 crosses in six games—the fewest among quarterfinalists. Crosses aren’t always ideal, but they hint at a team’s approach. When chasing goals, Argentina’s opponents have defended tightly, limiting space through the middle where Argentina finds it tough to break through.

Still, with Lionel Messi and a wealth of talent, plus intangible qualities like belief and passion, Argentina could prove this ranking wrong. Two games remain, and if they keep defying expectations, they could become three-time World Cup winners. That would be quite a story.