Ghana have climbed 29 places to 14th in the FIFA world rankings following their strong showing at the African Cup of Nations.

Despite losing in the semi-finals, the Black Stars overtake winners Egypt, who bizarrely rise only six places to 29th.

Ivory Coast, who lost 4-1 to the Egyptians in the last four, also overtake the Pharaohs, moving from 38th to 24th.

Beaten finalists Cameroon are the second highest-ranked African nation behind Ghana, up eight places to 17th.

Nigeria were the biggest losers from the tournament, sliding a massive 29 places from 19th to 45th.

Australia's strong start to World Cup qualifying sees them rise 10 places, although the Socceroos will still feel they are better than their ranking of 38 suggests.

There are few changes at the top due to the lack of competitive internationals, although England rise one place to 11th, overtaking their nemesis Croatia.

Scotland are stable at 14th, while Wales climb four places to 54th while Northern Ireland are 34th and Republic of Ireland 36th.

FIFA rankings (previous position in brackets)

1. (1.) Argentina

2. (2.) Brazil

3. (3.) Italy

4. (4.) Spain

5. (5.) Germany

6. (6.) Czech Republic

7. (7.) France

8. (8.) Portugal

9. (9.) Netherlands

10. (11.) Greece

11. (12.) England

12. (10.) Croatia

13. (13) Romania

14. (43.) Ghana

14. (14.) Scotland

16. (17.) Mexico

17. (25.) Cameroon

18. (16.) Turkey

19. (18.) Bulgaria

20. (23.) Poland

Alex Chick / Reuters