India FIFA Ranking and Recent Victories
In the most recent FIFA Men’s World Rankings update, India FIFA ranking achieved a ranking of 99th. Indicating their progress in international football. The Indian national team is fondly known as the Blue Tigers. They have recently secured significant victories in both the Intercontinental Cup. Add to it the SAFF Championship. These remarkable achievements have resulted in India moving up one spot in the rankings.
In the most recent FIFA rankings, the Indian national football team climbed one position to secure the 99th spot. This advancement allowed them to surpass Mauritania in the rankings.
Historical High for Indian Football
The highest-ever FIFA ranking achieved by the Indian football team was 94, a milestone reached back in February 1996.
Impact on FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
India’s current FIFA ranking of 99 places them as the 18th highest-ranked team in Asia. This ranking assures the Blue Tigers a position in spot 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Being in spot 2 means that they will be the lowest-ranked team in the pot. Thereby avoiding competition with Asian teams ranked between 10 and 17 during the World Cup qualifiers.
Upcoming FIFA Qualifiers
The initial round of FIFA qualifiers for AFC (Asian Football Confederation) nations is set to commence in October 2023. The first leg of matches will take place on October 12, followed by the second leg on October 17.
Asian Games Participation Impact
India is in 18th position in the Asian rankings. Plus, their recent victories in the Intercontinental Cup and SAFF Championships. However, they will not participate in the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) made this decision because the team did not meet the criteria set by the Sports Ministry. Which required them to be among the top 8 ranked teams in Asia.
Triumph in the 2023 Intercontinental Cup
India’s remarkable journey continued in the 2023 Intercontinental Cup. They emerged as champions by defeating Lebanon convincingly with a 2-0 scoreline in a thrilling final match. Building on this success, they maintained their winning streak. India was able to secure their ninth consecutive SAFF title.
India’s Growing Football Prowess
These accomplishments reflect India’s growing strength in football. India FIFA ranking also underscores the team’s unwavering dedication and hard work. With their consistent success on the international stage, the future appears bright for the Blue Tigers.
Key FIFA Ranking Facts for the Indian Football Team
Historical High and Global Rankings
India’s highest-ever FIFA ranking was 94, achieved in February 1996. Notably, European and South American teams continue to dominate the top ten rankings.
Asian Football Landscape
In the realm of Asian football, India currently holds the 18th position, placing them outside the top-ranked teams in the region.
Japan stands as the leading Asian team, ranked 20th globally, closely followed by Iran.
Global FIFA Rankings
In the most recent FIFA rankings:
- Argentina maintains its top spot. France and Brazil hold the second and third positions, respectively.
- The 4th, 5th, and 6th ranks are fiercely contested by England, Belgium, and Croatia.
- Noteworthy Improvements in Lower Rankings
- Several lower-ranked teams have demonstrated significant improvement:
- The Cayman Islands ascended by four spots to reach 193rd place.
- Gibraltar also climbed four places, now occupying the 198th position.
- Furthermore, Aruba and Liechtenstein both achieved impressive gains. Each moved up four positions to the 199th and 200th places, respectively.
Highlighting Progress and Diversity in Rankings
These updates in the FIFA rankings provide valuable insights. Furthermore, the current status of top international football teams. Showcasing the progress made by nations in the lower rankings. Enhancing the overall excitement and diversity of the competition.
| Rank | Team | Points | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 99 |
India
|
1208.69 | -1 |
| 1 |
Argentina
|
1843.73 | – |
| 2 |
France
|
1843.54 | – |
| 3 |
Brazil
|
1828.27 | – |
| 4 |
England
|
1797.39 | – |
| 5 |
Belgium
|
1788.55 | – |
| 6 |
Croatia
|
1742.55 | – |
| 7 |
Netherlands
|
1731.23 | – |
| 8 |
Italy
|
1726.58 | – |
| 9 |
Portugal
|
1718.25 | – |
| 10 |
Spain
|
1703.45 | – |
| 11 |
USA
|
1674.48 | – |
| 12 |
Mexico
|
1665.59 | -2 |
| 13 |
Switzerland
|
1661.12 | +1 |
| 14 |
Morocco
|
1655.5 | +1 |
| 15 |
Germany
|
1636.32 | – |
| 16 |
Uruguay
|
1633.13 | – |
| 17 |
Colombia
|
1624.91 | – |
| 18 |
Senegal
|
1612.61 | – |
| 19 |
Denmark
|
1597.37 | – |
| 20 |
Japan
|
1595.96 | – |
| 21 |
Peru
|
1561.2 | – |
| 22 |
IR Iran
|
1556.59 | – |
| 23 |
Sweden
|
1547.11 | – |
| 24 |
Ukraine
|
1541.25 | – |
| 25 |
Serbia
|
1539.03 | – |
| 26 |
Poland
|
1536.99 | – |
| 27 |
Australia
|
1530.45 | – |
| 28 |
Korea Republic
|
1529.3 | – |
| 29 |
Austria
|
1528.06 | – |
| 30 |
Scotland
|
1520.24 | – |
| 31 |
Tunisia
|
1516.66 | – |
| 32 |
Chile
|
1511.31 | – |
| 33 |
Algeria
|
1511.23 | – |
| 34 |
Egypt
|
1509.89 | – |
| 35 |
Wales
|
1506.04 | – |
| 36 |
Hungary
|
1504.57 | – |
| 37 |
Czechia
|
1503.69 | – |
| 38 |
Russia
|
1495.53 | – |
| 39 |
Nigeria
|
1486.48 | – |
| 40 |
Ecuador
|
1486.47 | – |
| 41 |
Türkiye
|
1484.47 | – |
| 42 |
Cameroon
|
1470.97 | -1 |
| 43 |
Canada
|
1458.58 | -2 |
| 44 |
Norway
|
1458.47 | – |
| 45 |
Panama
|
1453.94 | -12 |
| 46 |
Costa Rica
|
1453.56 | +4 |
| 47 |
Slovakia
|
1447.05 | +1 |
| 48 |
Romania
|
1443.98 | +1 |
| 49 |
Paraguay
|
1442.64 | +1 |
| 50 |
Greece
|
1441.06 | +1 |
| 51 |
Mali
|
1438.01 | +1 |
| 52 |
Côte d’Ivoire
|
1433.38 | +1 |
| 53 |
Republic of Ireland
|
1426.26 | +1 |
| 54 |
Saudi Arabia
|
1421.46 | +1 |
| 55 |
Finland
|
1419.47 | +1 |
| 56 |
Burkina Faso
|
1419.18 | +1 |
| 57 |
Venezuela
|
1417.23 | +1 |
| 58 |
Jamaica
|
1409.73 | -5 |
| 59 |
Qatar
|
1395.57 | +1 |
| 60 |
Ghana
|
1391.13 | +1 |
A Ticket to FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
India’s newfound position in the FIFA rankings is not just a number. It translates into tangible opportunities. The 99th spot secures India’s place in pot 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. This strategic positioning offers a competitive advantage. By ensuring that the Blue Tigers avoid facing Asian teams ranked between 10th and 17th in the qualifiers. It presents a favorable draw and enhances India’s prospects of progressing further in the competition.
The IOA’s Decision and the Asian Games
The position of the FIFA rankings has improved. Also, the consecutive victories in the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championship. However, this wasn’t enough. India faced disappointment as the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). As they chose not to send the football team to the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) made this decision due to the team’s failure to meet the Sports Ministry’s criteria. Ranking below the Top 8 in Asia. Highlighting the stringent standards governing international sports participation.
A Hopeful Future for Indian Football
India’s football journey is a story of determination and aspiration. The FIFA ranking of 99th signifies progress. But it also represents the nation’s resolve to continue climbing the global football ladder. With burgeoning talent, dedicated players, and passionate fans, India’s footballing future looks promising.
The country continues to develop its football infrastructure. Furthermore, nurture young talent and participate in international competitions. There is a genuine hope that India will ascend further in the FIFA rankings. Breaking into the top 50 and competing shoulder-to-shoulder with footballing giants. It is an aspirational goal for the nation.
