Number one Team till November 2020 in FIFA World Rankings?
VerifiedAnswer: Belgium
Explanation:
Belgium held the top position in FIFA World Rankings from September 2018 until November 2020, marking one of the most successful periods in Belgian football history. The Belgian national team, known as the Red Devils, achieved this remarkable feat through consistent performances in international competitions and qualifying matches.
The FIFA World Rankings system calculates team positions based on their performance over a rolling four-year period, with recent matches carrying more weight than older ones. Belgium's rise to the summit was built on their impressive showing at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where they finished in third place - their best World Cup performance since 1986.
During their time at number one, Belgium boasted a golden generation of players that included world-class talents such as Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois. This exceptional squad combined technical skill, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance to dominate international football rankings for over two years.
Belgium's journey to the top wasn't overnight. The Belgian Football Association invested heavily in youth development and coaching infrastructure following their disappointing failure to qualify for major tournaments in the early 2000s. This long-term strategy, combined with many Belgian players gaining experience in top European leagues, created the perfect foundation for international success.
It's worth noting that Belgium's reign as the world's number one team was ended by France in December 2020, following France's strong performances in the UEFA Nations League. However, Belgium's achievement of holding the top spot for 26 consecutive months remains a testament to their exceptional footballing talent and organizational excellence during this period.
