United States ranked 10th in FIFA men's world rankings

The United States men's national team won the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup competitions during international play following the completion of the 2020-21 European calendar and have been rewarded for their work in the latest FIFA rankings. 

FIFA now ranks the U.S. 10th, one spot behind Mexico and nine behind world leaders Belgium. According to ESPN, it's the first time the USMNT have landed in the top 10 since 2006. Additionally, the U.S. rose 10 spots from the previous rankings.

Per the Major League Soccer website, the USMNT begin the upcoming stage of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying at El Salvador on Sept. 2. As noted by ESPN, the U.S. would receive an easier draw, on paper, for the World Cup if they can stay in the top 10 through next year. The next FIFA rankings will be released on Sept. 16. 

Elsewhere in the rankings, Copa America finalists Brazil are second. France are third, followed by UEFA European Championship finalists England and Euro 2020 winners Italy. 

Mexico remain ahead of the U.S. in ninth despite losing to the Americans in the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup finals.