Club NXT U13 wint het Right To Dream-tornooi in Egypte

Club NXT U13 travelled to Egypt last week for the Right To Dream tournament and quickly made a strong impression. The young Brugge side combined an impressive run on the pitch with a week full of new and valuable experiences. Between late evening matches, training sessions and a varied daily schedule, the team showed they could handle an overseas trip in a professional manner both on and off the field. Club NXT U13 eventually crowned their successful week in Egypt by lifting the tournament trophy.

From group stage to final

During the group stage the young Brugge side immediately made their mark with convincing wins over Galatasaray (3-1), Al Hilal (3-1) and hosts Right To Dream (5-1). That strong start secured top spot in the group and a place in the quarter-finals, where Norwich City were beaten 2-0. Club NXT U13 remained dominant in the semi-finals as well, with Blauw-Zwart defeating Al Ahly 3-0. The final brought another meeting with Right To Dream, but once again Club proved the stronger side. A composed 2-0 victory secured the trophy.

The sporting performances were impressive, but the circumstances made the experience even more unique. All matches were played late in the evening, between 8pm and midnight. The entire team therefore had to adjust their usual rhythm, with meals pushed back, rest periods rescheduled and nights looking very different from home. Thanks to clear planning and a structured schedule, the players adapted quickly and maintained their level throughout the tournament.

More than football

The trip offered much more than football. The group also enjoyed a rich cultural experience, including a visit to the Egyptian pyramids where a guide introduced them to the local history and culture. For many players it was the first time seeing one of the world’s great wonders up close, a moment that will undoubtedly stay with them.

The days were carefully organised with a balance between relaxation, learning and professional preparation. The players took part in quizzes, played Kubb or went swimming during their free time and used power naps to cope with the late match schedule. There were also sessions on nutrition, sleep and lifestyle, giving the boys insight into what life as a top athlete involves beyond the pitch. A leadership workshop provided new tools to help them grow both individually and as a team. Throughout the day there were also video analysis sessions and mobility work in the gym, mirroring the routines professional players follow on international trips. Finally, “speed dating” moments, where players shared feedback about each other’s development, helped strengthen the bond within the squad.

The overall victory at the Right To Dream tournament was therefore about more than just results. It was the outcome of a week where football, discipline, team spirit and learning experiences came together. The players and staff returned to Belgium with a trophy in their luggage and a wealth of valuable experiences that will undoubtedly support their continued development.