Ibrahim Adel features from bench as Nordsjælland held in Danish Superliga opener

Nordsjælland began their 2026-27 Danish Superliga campaign with a 1-1 draw against Horsens, with Egypt international Ibrahim Adel coming off the bench in the second half.

The forward, who represented Egypt at the recent World Cup, was introduced in the 66th minute as Nordsjælland looked for a winner in their opening league fixture of the new season.

Adel had only rejoined full training with the Danish club a few days earlier, having been given time off following his involvement with the Egypt national team at the tournament.

The match ended level with one goal for each side, leaving the points shared on the first weekend of the league season.

Return after World Cup duty

Adel’s appearance marked his first competitive outing for Nordsjælland since returning from international duty.

The 22-year-old had been part of the Egypt squad at the World Cup, after which he was granted a short break before linking back up with his club team-mates.

He resumed training with Nordsjælland shortly before the new Superliga campaign kicked off, allowing head coach and staff to include him among the substitutes for the opening fixture.

His introduction just after the hour was aimed at adding attacking impetus as Nordsjælland chased a decisive goal against Horsens.

Journey to Danish football

Adel joined Nordsjælland at the start of 2026, moving to Denmark from Al Jazira in the United Arab Emirates.

His transfer to Al Jazira had come at the beginning of the previous season, when he left Egyptian Premier League side Pyramids to take his first step into football outside his home country.

The winger is regarded as one of the promising talents in Egyptian football, and his move to Europe with Nordsjælland was seen as an important stage in his development following his spell in the UAE.

With his World Cup commitments now complete, Adel will be aiming to secure a regular starting place and play a more prominent role as Nordsjælland’s league campaign unfolds after their opening draw with Horsens.