KATHMANDU, June 12: The U.S. Embassy in Nepal has successfully concluded the GOAL! USA 2026 Finals in Kathmandu, bringing together young football talents from across the country in a celebration of sport, youth leadership, and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The programme began with football skills competitions held in Biratnagar, Surkhet, Bhairahawa, and Pokhara, engaging hundreds of young athletes in teamwork and leadership-focused activities. Top performers from each location advanced to the national finals in Kathmandu.
The concluding event featured a friendly match involving youth participants, celebrity athletes, and U.S. Embassy staff.
Nepal scores second goal against Bhutan in finals of men's foot...
The initiative is part of the “Freedom 250” campaign, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence and building anticipation for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking before kickoff, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy Nepal, Scott Urbom, said GOAL! USA reflects the enduring friendship between the United States and Nepal.
“As the United States prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, we are proud to share that excitement with young people across Nepal and create connections that bring our communities closer together,” he said.
The embassy said the programme highlights the role of sports in fostering community engagement, youth leadership, and international partnership. Participants demonstrated teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and commitment throughout the competition.
As part of the Freedom 250 initiative, GOAL! USA promotes values of leadership, opportunity, and community engagement, encouraging young people to develop their talents and contribute positively to society.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and will be jointly hosted by three countries for the first time. The United States will host 78 matches across 11 cities, including the final stages of the tournament.
