Thursday, September 14 2006 12:28 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: The two successive defeats against Asian powerhouse Saudi Arabia has hit Indian football hard as it falls eight spots to joint 136th in the latest FIFA world rankings.

After Englishman Bob Houghton takes over the reins of the senior national team, India loses 0-3 to the Saudis in Kolkata, albeit giving a much-improved performance, but is humiliated by a 1-7 defeat when they make the trip to the desert kingdom. As a result, India finds itself level with Yemen, whom they have to play in an upcoming Asian Cup qualifier in Sana'a.

India will have to be careful if they do not want to fall further behind on the charts as they face Asian champions Japan in their next match in Bangalore on October 11 and a heavy reversal there can have an adverse impact on India's ranking.

India is ranked 25th in the Asian Football Confederation family, which is led by Australia in 38th place. Iran has climbed to 43rd spot while Japan and Korea are ranked 47th and 49th respectively. Saudi Arabia climbed seven places to number 68.