At just 20, Karly Carlos Harfouche is already making significant waves as a composed and intelligent centre-back. Excelling both for Bethel University’s Pilots in the U.S. college system and the Lebanon women’s national team, she blends defensive solidity with cross-cultural ambition and leadership.
Early Life and Educational Path
Born on August 3, 2004, in Baabda, Lebanon, Karly attended Brummana High School, where she began developing her football and academic talents . By 2022, she had secured a place at Bethel University (Indiana), studying exercise science while anchoring the defence of their women’s soccer team .
College Career with Bethel Pilots
Since joining in 2022, Karly has been a stalwart for the Pilots, playing 53 matches as of early 2025 . In late 2023, she was pivotal in helping the Pilots win their first-ever NCCAA National Championship, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Team —an impressive early accolade marking her impact in U.S. college soccer.
Club Career: SAS and No Limits
Before moving to the U.S., Karly played for Lebanese champions SAS from 2021 to 2024, making 32 appearances and scoring five goals from centre-back . In January 2025, she returned to Lebanon to join No Limits, reuniting her college experience with potential domestic play ahead
Rising in the Lebanon National Team
Karly’s national journey began in mid-2023. After excelling for the U‑20 side, earning three caps, she was promoted to the senior team 3. She made her full senior debut on July 18, 2023, in a friendly against Palestine and has since earned six caps, including appearances in the 2024 WAFF Women’s Championship . Her selection for the 2025 South Asia tournament further solidifies her place in the national setup .
Playing Style and Strengths
Standing at 1.68 m, Karly plays as a composed and calculated centre-back. According to her college profile, her strengths include defensive organisation, ball distribution, communication, and the ability to read the game—often stepping into midfield or launching long passes . Coaches in Lebanon praise her defensive intelligence and the confidence she brings to the back line .
Achievements and Milestones
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NCCAA National Champion and All-Tournament selection with Bethel Pilots (2023)
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Over 50 U.S. college appearances, starting as a freshman and growing into leadership roles
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Scored five goals across 32 SAS matches (2021–24)
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Earned six senior caps for Lebanon as of March 2025
Salary, Endorsements & Aspirations
As a student-athlete, Karly’s football isn’t professionally compensated in the U.S., and Lebanon offers modest national team stipends. However, her growing profile makes her a candidate for athlete ambassador roles, especially in youth development, health sciences, and international representation.
Future Outlook
Karly’s goals include:
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Maintaining her defensive role for Lebanon in upcoming regional qualifiers
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Continuing to lead the Pilots to success and possibly pursuing a professional soccer career post-graduation
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Blending her exercise science degree with athletics—perhaps into coaching or performance roles
Conclusion
Karly Harfouche exemplifies the modern, multi-faceted athlete: a disciplined defender, student scholar, and national representative. From Lebanon to the U.S. and back, her journey reflects ambition, adaptability, and leadership. At 20, she is already well on her way to becoming one of Lebanon’s footballing figureheads—on the field and beyond.
