Throughout the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, Argentina showcased impressive consistency, dominating the CONMEBOL standings with a commanding nine-point lead over the second-place team. However, in a surprising turn, Lionel Messi‘s team encountered a setback with its recent loss to Ecuador. This defeat ended its hold on a prestigious record, which has now passed into the hands of Lamine Yamal’s Spain.

Argentina’s unexpected defeat to Ecuador on Matchday 18 of the CONMEBOL Qualifiers has cost them their top position in the FIFA rankings, which they held since April 2023 until September 2025. Dominating the stage now is Spain, who have impressively maintained an undefeated streak through their first two UEFA qualifiers.

With four games left in the qualifiers, Spain have a chance to earn up to

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