Women’s World Cup Power Rankings: Morocco Makes Massive Jump; Japan Remains On Top

All eyes now turn to the bracket, following the conclusion of what became a wildly unpredictable end to the group stage. There were some enjoyable surprise performances, with South Africa, Morocco and Jamaica  fully deserving of their places in the knockout round and eagerly eyeing further upsets

The United States  almost crashed out of the tournament.

Unsurprisingly, the USWNT’s demoralizing performance in a 0-0 draw with Portugal sees it tumble on the rankings, all the way down to No. 7. Even that might be generous.

The Americans began the tournament No. 1 on our list, then slipped to No. 2 after a tie with the Netherlands — but no one who has been watching closely will have been inspired by the team’s displays in Group E.

Japan remains top of the power rankings, with the Netherlands jumping to No. 2 after dismantling Vietnam to win the group it shared with the Americans — rather comfortably in the end.

Germany and  Brazil are heading home, despite both starting their campaign with resounding victories.