Israel climbs to 36 in FIFA rankings

Israel moved up 15 spots in the latest FIFA world soccer rankings. Following victories over Estonia and Andorra in its first two Euro 2008 qualifying matches last week, Israel now finds itself in the 36th spot. France, England and the Czech Republic also moved up in the monthly rankings with five-time World Cup champion Brazil staying on top. France moved to No. 2 from No. 4 after its 3-1 victory over world champion Italy in a Euro 2008 qualifier. England edged up one place to No. 4 and the Czechs jumped to No. 7 from No. 10. Italy and Spain were the big losers in the top 10. Italy dropped three places to No. 5 and Spain, which was upset by Northern Ireland 3-2 in Euro 2008 qualifying, fell to No. 10 from No. 7.