A new milestone for Egyptian women’s football is here.
Egypt international Laila El Behery, 21, has signed with FC Nordsjælland women’s team, becoming one of the first Egyptian women to join a top European league.
Right to Dream Egypt played a key role in paving the way for Laila’s European breakthrough, facilitating her first trial with FCN in 2023 as part of our mission to create opportunities for young talent.
At the time, continuing her education and journey at UC Irvine in the U.S. was the right step for her.
Now, she’s ready to take on the next challenge in Denmark.
Laila’s Journey: From Egypt to Europe
An offensive player known for her speed and goal-scoring instinct, Laila has developed her game across continents.
First in Egypt, then in the U.S., and now stepping into one of Denmark’s top clubs, Laila has built a skillset that blends technical ability, athleticism, and a hunger to compete at the highest level.
“I am really happy that I’ve been given the opportunity to come to FC Nordsjælland,” Laila shares.“I trialed here in 2023, where I got insight into the club’s playing style. I definitely think this stay will help me understand the playing style and settle in quickly.”
Her time in American college soccer has also shaped her physically and mentally. Competing in the U.S. where athletic and physical development is a major focus, has made her a more well-rounded player, one ready for the demands of European football.
A Step Forward for Egyptian Women’s Football
FCN Women’s Sports Director Jessica Davis highlights the significance of Laila’s arrival:
“We’ve had Laila on our radar for the last two years, since her trials with FC Nordsjælland in the spring of 2023. At that time, it made sense for her to continue her education and college career at UC Irvine, where she has continued to impress.
“But now that she has graduated, it was the right time to reconnect.”
Laila’s arrival strengthens FC Nordsjælland’s ambitions to compete for both the championship and the cup this season, while also reinforcing the connection between the club and Right to Dream Egypt.
“As far as we know, Laila will be the first female Egyptian footballer to play in a European top-flight league.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to strengthen our relationship with the Right to Dream Academy in Egypt and at the same time strengthen our first team.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
For young girls in Egypt and across our academies, Laila’s journey is a proof of what’s possible.
It shows what happens when talent meets the right opportunities.
And it inspires us at Right to Dream to keep creating new pathways, whether through our academies, clubs, or education partners, for young talents across the world to chase their dreams.
Welcome to the Right to Dream community, Laila!