India Women’s FIFA Ranking: Russia Defeats Raise Questions for Blue Tigresses
India Women’s FIFA Ranking: Where Do the Blue Tigresses Stand?
India entered the October international window ranked 69th in the FIFA Women’s World Ranking, while Russia were placed 27th. The latest ranking update arrived on October 20, following 183 international matches played during the recent window.
India’s two defeats against Russia made the ranking update particularly important for the Blue Tigresses. However, match results alone do not determine a team’s exact movement: FIFA calculates rankings using a points-based system, and the official ranking position must be distinguished from unofficial live estimates.
India vs Russia: Two Defeats in Kolkata
India began the series at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on October 8, losing 0–4. Iana Sheina opened the scoring in the 41st minute, before Kira Petukhova struck twice in the 60th and 65th minutes. Iana Svistunova added Russia’s fourth in the 81st minute.
The second friendly on October 11 proved even tougher. Russia registered an 8–0 victory, with Darina Ishmukhametova, Marine Achoian and Natalia Mashina scoring twice each. Daiana Kishmakhova and Elizaveta Semenova also found the net.
The results exposed the gap between the two sides, with Russia capitalising on defensive errors and creating repeated scoring opportunities.
Crispin Chettri’s Young Squad Faces a Major Test
India head coach Crispin Chettri used the friendlies to assess emerging players as the team builds towards the 2027 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Six players made their international debuts in the opening match, including Babysana Devi Thingbaijam, Malati Munda, Cindy Colney, Shubhangi Singh, Dhurga Perumal and Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam.
Before the first game, Chettri emphasised the importance of preparation, saying: “If you want to do good in the Asian Cup, then we have to start building right now.”
The two matches offered valuable international exposure, but the scorelines also highlighted areas India must address, particularly defensive organisation, possession under pressure and finishing chances.
FIFA Women’s World Ranking: What Comes Next for India?
The October ranking update followed a busy international window, with Spain retaining the world No. 1 position and the United States remaining second. Malawi emerged as the biggest climber, rising 49 places to 104th.
For India, the next challenge is to convert international experience into improved performances. The Blue Tigresses will need greater consistency against stronger opposition as preparations continue for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
The latest FIFA ranking provides a snapshot of India’s standing in world football, but the longer-term measure will be whether the team can turn these difficult lessons into progress on the pitch.
