India break into top 100 of FIFA rankings for the first time in two decades
AIFF
The Indian football team has gained a place in the latest FIFA rankings and are now placed in the top 100 of the rankings for the first time in 21 years. India, who have 331 points, are tied for the 100th spot alongside Nicaragua, Lithuania, and Estonia but are now 11th in the Asian confederation.
India last found themselves in the top 100 way back in 1996 and the 94th rank that India achieved in February 1996 is their highest ranking till date. However, India has improved by leaps and bounds under the stewardship of Stephen Constantine in the recent past, and their latest ranking has been propelled by away wins over Cambodia and Myanmar. Constantine congratulated his side on their achievement, but also cautioned them against complacency after theĀ historic ranking.
"As long as we keep heading up the ladder I am happy. It points out that we are heading in the right direction.Ā There are major matches ahead and we cannot take things lightly. There's no place for complacency," Constantine was quoted saying by theĀ AIFF.
Having beaten Cambodia 3-2 in Phnom Penh on March 22 in a friendly fixture, India then went on to beat Myanmar 1-0 in a 2019 AFC Cup qualifier in Yangon six days later.Ā India now
Meanwhile, Brazil continued to hold onto their no.1 spot, followed by arch-rivals Argentina and current world champions Germany.
Here are the top ten teams:
1. Brazil
2. Argentina
3. Germany
4. Chile
5. Colombia
6. France
7. Belgium
8. Portugal
9. Switzerland
