USWNT fall to lowest ever FIFA ranking following a dismal World Cup
Their six-year stay at No.1 has come to an end
The United States Women's National Team (USWNT) has fallen to third in the world following a surprise Round of 16 exit from the World Cup.
The USWNT had been ranked first since 2017 but their time at the top came to an end as semi-finalists Sweden and winners hopped above them.
Sweden eliminated the USA in the Round of 16, beating them on penalties as the winning kick was barely millimetres over the goal line.
The Americans opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Vietnam but lacked goal threat in the following games.
Their co-captain, Lindsey Horan, admitted that the team was underprepared for the tournament, and many felt that this tournament could be a 'passing of the guard' for England to inherit
England went on to the final where they were defeated 1-0 by Spain, with the Iberians claiming revenge for the Lionesses eliminating them in the quarter-finals of the European Championship in 2022.
However, the Spanish victory has been overshadowed by controversy as the head coach, Jorge Vilda, and Luis Rubiales displayed alleged sexual misconduct towards the women players.
Rubiales kissed Jennifer Hermoso on the lips, an action that Hermoso said made her feel uncomfortable.
Facing subsequent calls to resign from his post as Spanish FA President, Rubiales initially apologised but then refused to resign and accused the negative response as a 'social assassination'.
Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, called for Rubiales to step down and it appears that the Spanish government will begin proceedings to suspend Rubiales.
Meanwhile, Vilda was filmed grabbing the breast of a staff member following Olga Carmona's 29th-minute goal in their 1-0 victory. Vilda has long since had issues with his
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