Amid uncertainty surrounding the future of Indian football and the men’s team’s steady slide in FIFA rankings, the women’s squad has delivered a much-needed boost. While Sunil Chhetri and Liston Colaco’s side continues to falter in international matches, the women have surged ahead, climbing seven places to 63rd in the latest FIFA rankings after a stellar AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign.
India dominated the qualifiers, thrashing Mongolia 13-0, Iraq 5-0, and Timor-Leste 4-0. Their ranking leap was sealed with a crucial 2-1 win over higher-ranked Thailand — a virtual knockout clash as both sides were level on points. Midfielder Sangeeta Basfore starred in the high-pressure game, netting twice to secure victory and top spot in the group.
This marks India’s best ranking in two years, matching their previous high of 61 in August 2023, and offering a ray of hope for the nation’s football ambitions.