Brazil are back on top of the FIFA rankings, replacing World Cup holders Germany.
Brazil haven't played a game since June, while Germany were last in action a month ago when they beat Chile to collect the Confederations Cup in Russia.
The FIFA rankings are based on results over a four-year period.
Argentina retained third place, Switzerland rose to fourth -- their highest position since the first rankings 24 years go -- and Poland moved into an all-time best fifth.
The United States climbed nine places to 26th after winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup last month.
The U.S. had dropped 12 places to 35th in the July rankings, one above the Americans' low in July and August 2012.
Much of that drop was attributable to a devaluation of points from last year's Copa America.