WALES will this week be recognised by FIFA as one of the ten best teams in world football, writes Michael Pearlman.

Chile’s failure to beat Argentina in 90 minutes in the Copa America Final though they did win the trophy on penalties, means Wales will reach the top ten when the rankings are announced on Thursday.

Wales will slot in just one place below England in ninth having been as low as 117 four years ago, and will be ranked above the winners of Euro 2008, Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup, Spain as well as Italy and France, the 2006 and 1998 World Cup winners respectively.

Wales’ new-found co-efficiency success is perfectly timed, because the top 10 FIFA position also means Wales will also be amongst the top seeds when the draw is made for the 2018 World Cup in Russia at the end of the month.

Wales’ sudden elevation next to the cream of world football represents a remarkable turnaround for a side who had dipped to a record low of 117th just four years ago after losing four of their first five matches under Gary Speed’s management.

Wales are hoping to celebrate their new status – and European Championship qualification – with a glamour friendly against Argentina in November.