The exciting performance of the United States national men’s soccer team at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil failed to translate into gains in the latest world rankings released by FIFA on Thursday.

The United States, which advanced from a difficult first-round group before losing to Belgium in the Round of 16, dropped two places to No. 15. Although the American team opened with a thrilling 2-1 win against Ghana on a late goal by John Brooks, the United States then tied Portugal, lost to Germany in the final game of the group stage and succumbed to Belgium, 2-1, in extra time.

The often-criticized rankings are based on a points system that takes into account results over a four-year span by averaging the points a team gains from victories over 12 months and the average of results of matches older than one year (with their value declining over time).

Teams accrue points based on whether matches were won or drawn, the importance of each match (full international, friendly or World Cup game) and the strength of the opposing team.