Latest FIFA rankings rate Wales almost as high as Brazil
The FIFA World Rankings have long confused many fans of international football, and the latest list is no different.
With Wales on the verge of qualification for its first major tournament since 1958, the Dragons were bound to rise up the ratings - but are they really better than Chile and England? How about nearly possessing the quality of Brazil?
Related: Gareth Bale named to Wales' squad for crucial Euro 2016 qualifiers
With the likes of Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey of Arsenal, and Swansea City and Wales captain Ashley Williams, Chris Coleman's side certainly has international pedigree.
But the squad is also littered with sub-par Championship talent in Simon Church and David Cotterill, and has an undisputed number one in Crystal Palace third-choice 'keeper Wayne Hennessey.
In comparison to the deep pools of talent of those countries around them in the rankings, the Welsh squad has as much depth as a shallow autumn puddle outside the Millennium Stadium.
Here is the current top 10 of the FIFA World Rankings, with notable others:
- Argentina
- Germany
- Belgium
- Portugal
- Colombia
- Spain
- Brazil
- Wales
- Chile
- England
14. Netherlands; 17. Italy; 20. Uruguay; 22. France; 29. USA