India’s FIFA Ranking Slips to 133, Team Eyes Course Correction Ahead

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The Indian men’s football team has dropped six places to 133rd in the latest FIFA rankings released on July 10, 2025—its lowest standing since December 2016, when it was ranked 135th.

Recent Performance Woes

India suffered a 02 defeat to Thailand in a friendly on June 4, followed by a 01 loss to lowerranked Hong Kong in the Asian
Cup qualifiers.
These setbacks led to the departure of head coach Manolo Marquez, who managed only one win in his last eight matches, a victory against the Maldives in March.
The team has played four matches in 2025, with one win, one draw, and two losses.

Ranking Fallout

India’s rating points fell from 1132.03 to 1113.22, placing it 24th among 46 Asian nations. Japan leads the region at 17th globally.
The sixspot drop is among the steepest globally this cycle, matched only by teams like Chinese Taipei and El Salvador.

Strategic Concerns

The poor run has jeopardized India’s qualification hopes for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Despite the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri, the team’s form remains inconsistent.
Looking Ahead
India’s next international fixture is scheduled against Singapore in October, a crucial match in the third round of Asian Cup qualifiers.
The All India Football Federation faces mounting pressure to appoint a new coach and reset the team’s trajectory.

Sources: News18, The Hindu, Sportstar, India Today, Rediff, MSN News, Telegraph India