On the Verge of History

HBS Soccer reached the final of the Austin Cup, matching the club's best historical result.

On a chilly, rain-soaked Saturday in Austin, 44 of the nation’s top MBA soccer teams converged for the largest tournament of its kind: the Austin Cup. With teams from Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, Columbia, Kellogg, and many others, the stage was set for a fierce display of (slightly washed up) collegiate athleticism.

Group Stage Dominance

HBS opened its campaign in the group stage against MIT Sloan, Chicago Booth, and Columbia Law. The team made a bold statement from the outset: a commanding 7–0 victory over MIT Sloan and a solid 3–0 win against Chicago Booth underscored its intent. In the final group match against Columbia Law, with qualification already secured, HBS opted for a measured pace, resulting in a 4–4 draw. Despite the cold and rainy conditions, the team’s determination shone through.

A Hard-Fought Knockout Journey

Sunday’s knockout rounds saw HBS elevate its game further. In the quarterfinals, HBSfaced Columbia’s B team in what turned out to be an effortless display of technical skill and physical prowess, winning 5–2. The semifinals brought a tougher test against Kellogg. After Kellogg initially seized control and went 2–1 up, HBS battled back to tie the score 2–2 by halftime. In the second half, the team found its rhythm and, capitalizing on key missed opportunities by the opposition, secured another 5–2 win.

The Final Showdown and Bittersweet Farewell

In the final, HBS squared off against Columbia’s A team — a side that arrived in peak physical condition despite playing a grueling weekend of matches. Columbia’s early burst of energy proved too much; Columbiacontrolled the pace and, despite HBS’s relentless fight, clinched a 4–2 victory. For the HBS squad, the loss was bittersweet: immense pride in reaching the final, yet undeniable disappointment in falling just short of finally capturing the trophy — a prize that has long eluded it despite previous finals appearances.

Standout Performances

The tournament was marked by several displays of individual heroics:

• Kasper Flotten (MBA ’26) played like a machine at right back, not only setting up attacking plays, but also anchoring the defense with relentless energy.

• Carlos Valdovinos (MBA Partner ’26) was the linchpin at center back. His solo runs and thunderous shots from outside the box resulted in four vital goals, making him a constant threat.

• James O’Byrne (MBA ’26) proved unstoppable on the left wing, emerging as a lethal attacking weapon by scoring an impressive seven goals over the weekend.

Though the ultimate prize remained just out of reach, HBS’ journey through the prestigious Austin Cup was a testament to its skill, determination, and resilience. With lessons learned and a drive to refine its weaknesses, the team is already gearing up for next year, confident that the trophy will soon come to Boston.

Alejandro Bohn (MBA ’26) is originally from Santiago, Chile. Before joining HBS, he worked in Bank of America’s investment banking division covering Latin America, and later served as a private equity associate and advisor at Southern Cross Group. A former player for Chile’s U-20 national rugby team, Alejandro remains passionate about sports and will serve as the Co-President of the HBS Soccer Club during his EC year.