Ireland drop two places in rankings after Women's World Cup

The Republic of Ireland have dropped two spots to 24th in the FIFA Women's World Rankings following the recent Women's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia.

Vera Pauw's side lost narrowly to hosts Australia and Olympic champions Canada before registering a first World Cup finals point against Nigeria, when they had already been eliminated from the tournament.

The Girls in Green return to the field next month with a Nations League debut at home to Northern Ireland, with Aviva Stadium playing host to the homecoming fixture.

The FAI Board is set to meet on Tuesday, when Pauw's future as manager is due to be discussed, however the Irish Daily Mirror have reported that the Dutch woman's fate could be decided over the weekend, in advance of the meeting.

Despite claiming their first World Cup, Spain have been pipped to top spot in the rankings by third-placed finishers Sweden.

The Scandinavians dethrone the USA, who are third behind Spain, with England and Spain making up the rest of the top five.

Despite their heroics in Australia, Nigeria are still ranked behind Ireland, in 32nd place.

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