Colombia on Thursday rose to the third place — their highest position in history — in the global soccer ranking of world soccer federation FIFA.
The only countries that outperformed Colombia are Spain and Germany, that respectively occupy the first and second spot in the ranking.
Colombia’s outstanding performance in the qualification matches for the Brazil 2014 World Cup put the Cafeteros’ above Argentina and The Netherlands.
In the ranking of Conmebol, the South American soccer federation, Colombia is now first, outperforming soccer giants Brazil and Argentina.
Following a steady drop that pushed Colombia down to the 54th spot in the FIFA ranking in June 2011, the Cafeteros recovered and — driven by increased performances of striker Radamel Falcao — slowly climbed the ranking to reach the top 10 in October 2012.
The hiring of Argentina coach Jose Pekerman spurred further successes in the World cup qualifiers.
FACT SHEET: Colombia’s FIFA rankings (August 2010 – present)
