China's national football team sank two places to reach 75th on FIFA's monthly world rankings, its lowest place in the past six months.

A string of African teams have risen largely on the rankings due to their performances at the African Nations Cup last weekend.

Egypt, winner of the continental tournament, was the biggest mover and rose to 17th place.

Cote d'Ivoire, the beaten finalists, soared 10 places to 32nd.

Nigeria also moved up 12 places to 12th, with Cameroon up seven to 16th, on the back of their displays at the tournament.

There's no change in the top five places from last month, with Brazil leading the Czech Republic, Netherlands, Argentina and France. Spain, Mexico and the United States are all tied for sixth position.

(CRI English February 16, 2006)