The Indian women’s football team has jumped seven places to 63rd in the latest FIFA rankings, thanks to a historic win over Thailand that also secured them a spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. This marks the first time the Blue Tigresses have qualified for the tournament based on performance.
This is India’s best ranking in nearly two years, last reaching 61st in August 2023. The 2-1 victory over Thailand—ranked higher—sealed their qualification and capped off a dominant qualifying campaign.
India began their qualifiers with a thumping 13-0 win against Mongolia—their biggest win in recent times—followed by convincing 4-0 and 5-0 victories over Timor-Leste and Iraq, respectively. With India and Thailand level on points going into the final game, pressure was high. Midfielder Sangita Basfore stepped up with two crucial goals, giving India the edge and ensuring their place in the continental championship.
The qualification is particularly meaningful as India had to withdraw from the last edition of the Asian Cup, despite hosting it, due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the squad. This comeback showcases the team’s growth in depth, resilience, and tactical strength—an encouraging sign as women’s football continues to seek more recognition and investment in the country.
Elsewhere, the India U20 women’s team began their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers campaign with a 0-0 draw against Indonesia in Yangon.
Meanwhile, the Indian U17 girls have been placed in Group G for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. They will face hosts Kyrgyz Republic on October 13 and Uzbekistan on October 17 in Bishkek. Group winners will qualify for the final tournament in China, joining DPR Korea, Japan, South Korea, and hosts China PR.
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