France are ranked as the strongest team left in the World Cup by BBC Sport, which assessed the remaining 16 sides on their tournament performances so far. Spain, Argentina and Brazil complete the top four, while England sit eighth.
The ranking is clearly an editorial judgement rather than a statistical table, but it offers a snapshot of how the contenders are being viewed before the next knockout stage. France’s position is linked to their attacking threat and Kylian Mbappé’s form, while Argentina’s high placement reflects the continued influence of Lionel Messi.
There are several debate points beyond the top tier. Morocco are placed fifth after another strong tournament showing, Colombia are sixth with Luis Díaz highlighted, and Mexico are one place above England before their expected test against the English side. Norway, led by Erling Haaland, are ninth despite being described as a solid and dangerous team.
Further down, Portugal are 11th, Switzerland 12th after a notable knockout milestone, and Egypt 13th with attention on Mohamed Salah. Belgium, Canada and Paraguay occupy the final three positions, with Paraguay’s win over Germany noted as one of the tournament’s major surprises.
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