The Republic of Ireland have risen to 31st in the latest FIFA world rankings.
The good news comes on the back of November's World Cup playoff defeat to Denmark - who are 12th in the latest standings.
Michael O'Neill's Northern Ireland lie in 26th.
Germany finished top of Northern Ireland's group, claiming 10 victories from a possible 10 along the way.
As a result, the Germans remain the highest ranked nation in the world.
Brazil, Portugal, Argentina and Belgium complete the top 5.
