The FIFA rankings published on Thursday put Germany top of the rankings with 1,723 points.

Argentina, which Germany beat 1-0 in extra time in Sunday's World Cup final in Rio de Janeiro,was in second place on 1,606 points.

This is the first time that Germany has been top of the FIFA rankings in 24 years. The last time was in 1990 after it had captured its last World Cup title, also beating Argentina 1-0.

Coach Joachim Löw's side unseated Spain, who had traveled to Brazil as defending champions, from the top ranking.

The Netherlands, who beat Brazil in Saturday's game for third place, moved to third spot in the rankings.

Spain, who disappointed by failing to advance past the group stage in Brazil, dropped to eighth place.

Three other nations that failed to make it beyond the first round also dropped in the rankings. Portugal fell seven places to 11th spot, Italy slipped five to 14th, and England plummeted 10 places to 20th.

pfd/tj (AP, dpa)