Indian Football Team Climbs FIFA Rankings: A Promising Future Ahead

The Indian football team has made remarkable progress in the latest FIFA rankings, moving up one spot to secure the 99th position. This achievement marks their entry into the sub-100 rankings for the first time since 2018, a significant milestone for Indian football.

Under the leadership of the legendary Sunil Chhetri, the Indian team has been making great strides in international football. Their recent performances in the Intercontinental and SAFF Cup have contributed to their rise in the rankings, especially considering their position of 106 in March 2023.

A standout achievement for the Indian team was their victory in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship. During this tournament, they displayed improved fitness and showcased their attacking style of football. Players like Lallianzuala Chhangte and Sahal Abdul Samad played vital roles in the team's success.

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Sunil Chhetri's exceptional talent has been a driving force behind the team's accomplishments. With an impressive record of 85 goals in 133 matches, he is the highest goal-scorer in the history of the Indian national team. Globally, he ranks as the fourth-highest goal-scorer in international matches, a testament to his skill and dedication.

The journey to this point has not been without challenges. In March 2015, the Indian team faced their lowest FIFA ranking at 173. However, they demonstrated resilience and determination, bouncing back to achieve notable victories, including reaching the third round of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.

While India has not yet qualified for a men's or women's World Cup, their recent performances indicate a promising future for football in the country. The head coach, Igor Stimac, has requested permission for the Indian team to participate in the Asian Games 2023. He believes that such exposure would greatly benefit the team's growth and development.