Himalaya Baltimore's 35+ team delivered an impressive run at the Machhapuchhre Cup 2026, finishing as runners-up after playing six matches in a single day at Randall's Island, New York.
The team began with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Bhairav FC. Sawan Gurung scored the decisive goal with a clever flick into the net from Rakesh Gurung's low-driven corner.
Himalaya Baltimore recorded another 1–0 win in the second match against tournament host Hamro Pokhara. Robin Gurung scored the match-winner to secure three more points. The final group match against Rasuwa FC ended 0–0, completing an unbeaten group-stage campaign without conceding a goal.
In the quarterfinal against United Sherpa, Sawan Gurung again stepped up for the team, powering home a bullet header from a perfectly delivered corner by Rabin Poudel and sending Himalaya Baltimore into the semifinals.
The semifinal proved to be the most dramatic match of the tournament. Two goals from Rakesh Gurung gave Himalaya Baltimore a commanding lead, but the opposition scored twice late in the second half to force a tiebreaker. Goalkeeper Prem Shrestha produced a heroic performance in the shootout, helping the team edge through to the championship match.
After five demanding matches and with several players carrying injuries, Himalaya Baltimore entered the final with a limited squad. The championship match did not unfold as hoped, and Tamang FC secured the title with a 3–0 victory. Despite the defeat, Himalaya Baltimore concluded a memorable campaign as tournament runners-up.
Rakesh Gurung's decisive delivery in the opening match, two-goal semifinal performance and influence throughout the competition earned him the prestigious Man of the Tournament award, along with a cash prize.
Hamro Pokhara President Kishor Regmi and his team concluded the tournament by presenting trophies and prizes to the champions, runners-up and individual award recipients.
Himalaya Baltimore congratulates Tamang FC on winning the championship and extends its sincere appreciation to Hamro Pokhara New York for organizing the tournament. The team also thanks every player, supporter and well-wisher who contributed to an unforgettable football trip to New York.
Six matches. One resilient team. A New York trip to remember.← Back to all news