The UEFA rankings serve as a crucial benchmark for various football leagues, akin to a goose that lays golden eggs. Clubs across different nations strive to perform exceptionally to retain high standings. France has frequently encountered difficulties in European competitions but managed to secure the 5th position at the conclusion of the 2023-2024 season, earning a total of 7 spots in European tournaments (4 in the Champions League, of which 3 are direct entries, 2 in the Europa League, and 1 in the Europa Conference League). The aim is to at least sustain this ranking through the completion of the 2025-2026 season, or even surpass Germany. However, this week has yielded disappointing results.
The top 10 UEFA rankings by country (over the last 5 seasons, including the current one).
Source: Official UEFA website.
France faced a tough week. Nevertheless, in the Champions League, PSG achieved a solid 0-3 victory over Chelsea, advancing to the quarter-finals. Conversely, the performance in the Europa League was disappointing, with Olympique Lyonnais and Lille both suffering defeats against Celta Vigo and Aston Villa (2-0 each), resulting in their elimination. Strasbourg, however, progressed in the Europa Conference League, securing advancement against Rijeka with a 1-1 draw in the second leg after winning 1-2 in the first leg.
This week yielded minimal points, and with limited opportunities ahead, it will be challenging for France to catch up to Germany, which has 3 representatives: Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Freiburg in the Europa League, and Mainz in the Europa Conference League. The latter will play against Strasbourg in a crucial match.
Portugal also warrants close attention as Braga and Porto have both progressed to the quarter-finals of the Europa League, winning their matches against Ferencvaros and Stuttgart. The results from the 2021-2022 season will not be taken into account next season, which currently benefits France, narrowing the gap further. Time is of the essence.
