FIFA Rankings: Indian men's football team rises to 104th spot, women's team advance three places

The Indian women's squad improved as they moved from World No. 59 to World No. 56. India's men's football squad recently made history as they recorded their first consecutive qualification for the AFC Asian Cup. The tournament's next edition is scheduled from June 16 to July 16 in 2023.

India put forth an excellent display in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. The Blue Tigers won all three qualification matches against Cambodia, Afghanistan and Hong Kong to top Group D by clinching all nine points to secure an AFC Asian Cup for the second year. India now stands one step behind New Zealand, which is at World No. 103. 

The AFC ranking of India remains the same as they stand at the 19th spot, behind Lebanon and one place ahead of Tajikistan. In contrast, Iran is at the top of the chart while Japan is close behind at the second spot.

The women's squad of India moves up owing to their 1-0 victories against Egypt and Jordan earlier this year.

FIFA issues ultimatum to All India Football Federation

The good news came when the threat of a potential FIFA ban loomed over India. FIFA has requested the All India Football Federation to get a new constitution by July 31 and then conduct elections for a new President before September 15.

The decision was taken after a meeting between a seven-member FIFA and AFC delegation, the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators and football associations of Indian states on June 23.

The All India Football Federation will have to call a s Special General Body Meeting before August 5 to finalize the date for the Presidential elections. FIFA and AFC have said that any deviations from the timelines finalized will result in the suspension of India from world football.

The issue started when the All India Football Federation failed to hold elections for a new president within the set timeframe due to delays in finalizing a new constitution. However, a new constitution and presidential elections are not the only problems faced by the All India Football Federation. The organization will also have to conduct a forensic audit as its officials have been accused of corruption.