Defending champions France are top of the last Fifa world rankings released before the World Cup.
Tournament favourites Argentina have moved into joint second place, alongside Brazil.
Roger Lemerre's France have 802 points, with the two second-placed teams on 784 points.
But three of the countries in the top 10 will not be at the World Cup, which begins on 31 May.
Colombia - in fourth place - as well as Holland and Yugoslavia, all failed to qualify for the finals.
Portugal are fifth, followed by Italy, Mexico and Spain.
Germany and England, both former World Cup winners, are 11th
and 12th respectively, swapping positions this month.
China - 50th place - are the lowest ranked team to qualify for the finals.