Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Paraguay last month was their eighth consecutive victory in World Cup qualifying – a run that has seen the five-time world champions return to the top of the FIFA Rankings for the first time in seven years.
It was 2010 that the Selecia last topped the pile, securing first place in May, just one month before the World Cup South Africa.
READ MORE:
Brazil qualify for WC2018 | PQPaulinho - a hero's return | Neymar - Captain Fantastic
It was a very different Selecao. Led by coach Dunga, who had taken over following World Cup 2006 in Germany, Brazil raced into South Africa in a successful qualification campaign that saw them top the 10-team Conmebol group.
Getty ImagesThey were on a run of 14 wins from 16 matches, stumbling only when during the final stretch of the campaign once their place in South Africa was already assured.
Over his time in charge, Brazil also won the Copa America and Confederations Cup. Among that group, only Thiago Silva and Daniel Alves remain in the current side.
The last Brazil squad to top the FIFA rankings:
Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar, Gomes, Doni.
Defenders: Lucio, Juan, Luisao, Thiago Silva, Maicon, Daniel Alves, Michel Bastos, Gilberto.
Midfielders: Felipe Melo, Gilberto Silva, Elano, Josue, Ramires, Kleberson, Kaka, Julio Baptista.
Forwards: Robinho, Luis Fabiano, Nilmar, Grafite.