News Summary
Editorial Reviewed.
- After watching the Norway vs. Iraq match at Boston Arena in the US, a Nepali doctor expressed the dream that Nepal too can reach the World Cup.
As a cancer specialist working day and night with stethoscopes and critical medical reports, my hands have firmly held onto one thing since childhood — football. I am not just a casual spectator of football; to be honest, I am a passionate connoisseur of Nepali football.
When I entered the United States for training under the ASCO Leadership Development Program, my long-hidden love for football suddenly awakened. Then came the opportunity — to watch the 2026 World Cup live, right from the stadium!
At Boston Stadium’s vast, state-of-the-art, and electrifying atmosphere, I watched the match between Norway and Iraq. The world-renowned striker Erling Haaland showcased his magic on the field, scoring two goals and leading Norway to an impressive 4-1 win. On the other side, Iraq’s Ayman Hussein scored a goal, causing the arena to erupt with a cheering energy that is beyond description.
However, during the match, my gaze was not fixed on Haaland’s goals but rather on the parapet. I was watching the Norway-Iraq match, yet my heart was seeking my own country among the fans present.
A Nepali Heartbeat in a Foreign Stadium
On one side were the Norwegian supporters in blue and red jerseys, and on the other, the enthusiastic Iraqi fans who had returned to the World Cup after nearly 40 years! Their cheers, flags painted on faces, and celebrations after each goal left a deep impression on my Nepali soul. An enormous wave of nationalistic emotion surged within me.
Oh, how proud it would have been to see our red flag with the sun and moon fluttering in such a grand stadium! How magnificent it would have been for our Nepali brothers and sisters to beat drums and shout “Nepal… Nepal…” on the world’s largest stage! Just thinking about that vision brought tears to my eyes.
Thousands filled the stadium celebrating all around, yet I felt a deep loneliness — deeply missing my homeland Nepal and its fans. No matter where one goes or what achievements one attains professionally in medicine, nothing matches the pride and fulfillment of yelling in a stadium wearing the jersey of your own nation.
The Mud of Tikapur, Dreams, and Respect for Coaches
As Haaland sprinted with the ball, memories of my beloved Tikapur in Far-Western Nepal flashed through my mind. School days without modern boots, smooth fields, or floodlights — just the dusty, muddy playground of Tikapur where we played until our clothes were worn out.
The friends who ran beside me back then, pledging to become football players in the future, still echo in my ears today with those ambitious dreams. Despite hunger, worn-out shoes, and injuries, those vast and pure dreams remain fresh and sacred in my memory. I remember all those friends from this foreign land.
At this juncture, I wish to pay tribute to all the coaches in the country who have nurtured football talents from the grassroots. These mentors have dedicated their lives, sacrificed comforts and personal interests, and despite limited resources and financial challenges, continue to produce players in Nepal. I wholeheartedly respect their sacrifices, which keep the flame of football alive even without adequate infrastructure.
A Journey of a Dream: The Goal to Reach the World Cup
Nepalis have the passion for football and the talent of players that rivals any football powerhouse nation. If countries like Iraq, which have faced multiple political, economic, and social upheavals, can carve their place on the grandest stage, why can’t we, the peace-loving Nepalis? We absolutely can. The time has come to dare to dream big.
A dream is not just imagination; it is the first step of a planned journey. With the enthusiasm seen at Dashrath Rangashala, and by properly guiding the talents running in villages, towns, and remote alleys, the journey to the World Cup is not far off.
However, this journey can’t be achieved by emotions and applause alone. We must accept a hard truth. If we genuinely want to fulfill that grand dream of playing in the World Cup, the government and relevant agencies (ANFA, Ministry of Sports) must not only hold discussions but formulate concrete, professional, and long-term plans:
Proper Budget Management
The budget allocated for national sports, especially football, should not be limited to formality or conferences. Until players’ economic security is guaranteed, they cannot perform fully. The state must ensure the players’ standard of living.
International-Level Training
Our players have the natural talent and the fragrance of our soil; what’s missing is investment in modern technology, scientific nutrition, world-class training, and physical infrastructure. The government should focus on developing these technologies without hesitation.
Exposure and Match Experience
Confidence grows when our players receive sufficient friendly matches and international experience against strong teams. The responsible bodies need to balance opportunities for international match exposure and overseas training.
Never Stop Dreaming!
Football is not just a 90-minute game; it is the greatest medium to unite the country and establish its identity globally. Norway may have won the game in Boston, but my patriotism and love for football tell me — the victory will one day be Nepal’s.
As long as selfless love beats in the hearts of our players’ feet and our fans, that dream will always live. One day, Nepal will also play in the World Cup!
