Latest FIFA Rankings Released, India remains 124th

India has maintained its 124th position in the latest FIFA men’s rankings released. This comes as a small relief for the success-starved nation, which has been experiencing a downward trend in recent months.

Recent Performance

The Indian men’s national football team faced setbacks in June when it dropped three places in the FIFA rankings. This decline was primarily due to their failure to qualify for the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, suffering losses to Qatar and Afghanistan.

Historical Context

India had achieved a significant milestone last year by breaking into the top 100, reaching its best-ever ranking of 99. However, since December, the team has been on a downward spiral.

Asian Standing

In the Asian football hierarchy, India remains in the 22nd position. This places them behind several regional competitors, including Lebanon, Palestine, and Vietnam.

Global Rankings: Shifts and Surprises

Argentina’s Dominance

Argentina, the reigning world champion and Copa America winner, has strengthened its grip at the top of the FIFA rankings. Their successful defense of the Copa América crown has solidified their position as the world’s top-ranked team.

European Powerhouses

• France maintains its position as the second-ranked team, following their impressive run to the semifinals of EURO 2024.
• Spain has made a significant leap, climbing 5 places to 3rd after being crowned European champions.
• England has moved up one spot to 4th, overtaking Brazil after their strong performance in the EURO 2024 final.

South American Representation

• Brazil has slipped one place to 5th, now finding themselves outside the top four.
• Colombia has made a noteworthy return to the top 10, rising three places to 9th despite a narrow defeat to Argentina in the Copa América final.

European Reshuffling

• Belgium has dropped three places and now sits outside the top five at 6th.
• The Netherlands (7th) and Portugal (8th, down 2 places) follow closely behind.
• Italy rounds out the top 10 at 10th place.

Top 10 FIFA Rankings Table

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

• FIFA President: Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino;
• FIFA Location: Zürich, Switzerland;
• FIFA Established: 21 May 1904