The Indian Football Team has suffered yet another setback, dropping three places in the latest FIFA World Rankings to 136th — its lowest position in nearly a decade. The latest update from FIFA reflects India’s continued struggles on the international stage, with inconsistent performances and disappointing results overshadowing brief flashes of promise.
The fall in rankings comes on the back of a poor run of form, particularly in recent fixtures against Singapore, where India failed to deliver despite glimpses of progress seen earlier in the year during the CAFA Nations Cup. The drop not only affects India’s global standing but also pushes them further down the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) rankings, where they now sit 25th among Asian nations — below regional rivals like Malaysia, North Korea, and Indonesia.
This decline comes at a critical juncture for Indian football as the Blue Tigers prepare for the next phase of AFC qualification matches. The latest ranking dip has sparked concern among fans and pundits alike about the team’s long-term direction, as well as the impact of recent managerial changes.
Mohun Bagan Eyes Semifinal Spot, East Bengal Seeks Momentum Before Kolkata Derby
Khalid Jamil’s Mixed Start as Head Coach
Appointed in August 2025, Khalid Jamil made history as the first Indian head coach of the national team in 13 years. His arrival was heralded as a potential turning point following the inconsistent tenures of Igor Stimac and Manolo Marquez, both of whom failed to take the team to the next level despite promising starts.
Under Jamil, India initially showed signs of revival. The Blue Tigers performed commendably at the CAFA Nations Cup, finishing third in a competitive field and displaying a newfound tactical organization. However, that momentum has since waned. The recent defeat to Singapore — a side ranked lower than India — was particularly damaging, both in terms of morale and ranking points.
The loss also eliminated India from contention for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, extending their wait for meaningful competitive football. With the next round of qualifiers scheduled for November 2025, the team now faces months of reflection and rebuilding under Jamil’s guidance.
Concerns Over Consistency and Creativity
While Jamil’s appointment brought optimism, early challenges have exposed familiar issues. India’s attack has struggled for creativity and cutting edge, often failing to convert possession into goals. Defensively, the team has shown resilience but remains prone to lapses in concentration. Critics have also pointed to a lack of depth in key positions and the need for a more cohesive long-term strategy that prioritizes player development and youth integration.
For Jamil, the immediate task will be to restore confidence within the squad and rediscover the intensity that characterized their CAFA Nations Cup performances. The next set of fixtures against Bangladesh in November could prove crucial in determining both his tenure and India’s trajectory in the AFC rankings.
The Road Ahead
As India look to bounce back, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) faces increasing pressure to provide structural stability and support for the national setup. The ranking drop serves as a stark reminder that progress in international football requires sustained investment, strategic planning, and patience.
With fans eager to see the Blue Tigers regain their competitive edge, November’s fixtures could mark the beginning of another rebuilding phase — one that India can ill afford to get wrong.