5 Reasons why India can qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026

#3 Improvement in the Ranks

The Captain-Coach duo has been sensational for India

Indian Football has undergone a drastic change since the arrival of Stephen Constantine as manager in 2015. Indian team lagged behind at 171 in the FIFA Team Rankings. Even in the first tournament managed by the Englishman, a series of inconsistent performances in the World Cup Qualifiers eliminated the hopes for a berth in Russia.

However, there has a rejuvenation in the Indian side post in November 2015. The Indian team led by Sunil Chhetri, remained unbeaten in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship, beating Afghanistan in the final to claim the trophy. India further secured their spot in the Asian Championship and won the Hero Tri-Nation Series. The success of the U17 World Cup coincided with the senior team, with India enjoying an unbeaten streak for a period of 20 months, winning 11 matches and drawing 2.

The coach-captain duo of Chhetri and Constantine worked wonders, as the team consistently climbed up the charts of Team Rankings. India improved its rankings by 30 spots each in 2016 and 2017, from an abysmal 171 in the start of 2015. The 'Blue Tigers' re-entered inside the top 100 in 2017, reaching a record 96th rank, their best in 20 years.

The Team continued its sublime form in 2018 and riding on the form of captain Chhetri, clinched the Intercontinental Cup, beating Kenya in the final.

Thus, the majestic performance of the team, backed by efficient support staff, the inflow of talent and financial assistance could certainly help India make its World Cup debut in 2026.