Meta Description: Regaining its ability to stand on its own, Indian football has a long way to go before they can rank at the top of the FIFA world ranking table. Learn more.
Indian Football – a sport overshadowed by cricket for years. It is on everyone’s mind, but theIndian Football team received zero recognition until very recently. With fans showing more and more interest, it has gradually started gaining momentum. The Indian national football team is also making strides on the international side. However, when it comes to FIFA World Rankings (charts) India has a long way to go before it can truly rule the table. All of this combined raised the ultimate question for fans and football analysts alike: Will India ever top the FIFA rankings?
To understand this, we need to analyze where Indian football stands currently, the historical context of its development, the challenges, and the potential for growth in the coming future.
Current State of Indian Football and FIFA Rankings
As of 2024, India ranks 124th on the FIFA World Rankings Table. Although, it has improved a lot from where it began. Where India found itself tailing around the 150th position, it is still far behind footballing powerhouses like Brazil, Argentina, France, and Spain, who regularly dominate the top spots.
The FIFA World Ranking system is based on points that the teams receive through draws, wins, or the strength of the opposition. If India faces the highest-ranked teams and defeats them, they can climb up quickly to the top spots. But for a nation that’s still developing its football infrastructure, facing higher-ranked teams regularly is easier said than done.
The Indian Football team’s performances in international tournaments have been full of mixed outcomes. The national team has had some success in their South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship outings but has significantly struggled on the global stage.
Historical Context: The Rise and Fall of Indian Football
The 1950s and 1960s era of football history was particularly remarkable when the national team was renowned as one of the best Asian squads, under the guidance of the esteemed coach Syed Abdul Rahim. India made it to the semi-finals of the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Clinched gold medals at the Asian Games in 1951 and 1962. Truly showcasing their strength on the field. At that time in history when the Indian football team excelled greatly on a level; there was a sense of optimism for the future of football, in the nation.
Over time cricket became the sport of the nation while football gradually lost its due prominence. The internal politics of the federation led to poor facilities and support for young players resulting in a noticeable decrease in its appeal and success levels by the 1980s. India had lagged far behind other countries in football and faced challenges in qualifying for major competitions such as the AFC Asian Cup or the FIFA World Cup.
In recent years the game of football has seen a resurgence, in popularity with the rise of events such as the Indian Super League (ISL). Increased backing from the All India Football Federation (AIFF). These initiatives have attracted talent seasoned and new. Undoubtedly this rekindling is a work in progress as India strives to restore its football heritage.
The Path Forward: How India Can Rise in FIFA Rankings
Despite the challenges, Indian football has immense potential. The country has a population of over a billion people and is considered a sleeping giant in world football. Here is how India can improve its FIFA ranking and one day aim for the top:
1. Investment in Youth Development
India needs structured youth football development programs with academies, networks, and regular competitions at the grassroots level. Talent identification at a very early age will help technically gifted players compete on the global stage.
2. Improving Infrastructure
When it comes to enhancing infrastructure in football, it is important to focus on modernizing training facilities and stadiums to foster player development effectively. Forming partnerships with international football clubs and organizations can bring valuable expertise and resources to upgrade Indian football infrastructure significantly.
3. International Exposure
To provide Indian players with essential exposure to top-level football, it is essential to encourage their participation in foreign leagues and international tournaments. Hosting more international matches and friendlies against higher-ranked teams can further enhance their experience and skills on the global stage.
4. Coaching Development
Investing in coaching development is crucial for elevating the tactical and technical standards of Indian football. By improving coaching education and leveraging international expertise, coaches can implement modern football methodologies that better prepare players for the challenges of international competitions
5. Corporate Investment and Media Support
To push football in India to greater heights, garnering corporate investment and media support is essential. Compared to the attention cricket receives, football requires increased corporate sponsorship and media coverage. While the Indian Super League (ISL) has made strides, more efforts are needed to establish football as a mainstream sport. Corporate partnerships can provide the financial backing necessary to improve infrastructure development, grassroots initiatives, and marketing strategies aimed at elevating the sport’s visibility and appeal.
Can India Top the FIFA Rankings?
India’s progress in football has commenced, paving the path for future advancements. While reaching the top of the FIFA rankings may appear daunting, strategic investments in youth development, infrastructure, coaching, and exposure to elite competitions are crucial for sustained growth in Indian football.
Achieving the pinnacle of the FIFA rankings demands commitment spanning decades. Given India’s substantial population and increasing passion for the game, there exists potential for the country to emerge as a formidable footballing nation. With the growth of teams like Cricaza, Indian football has endured major support from websites that promote and cover daily updates on regional as well as international tournaments. Fans can live-stream football matches as well as other sporting events. It is a leading gaming brand striving to give India every sporting update, every second, every minute, every hour.