Nigerian women’s team prepares for 2025 World Series

The Nigerian women’s rugby league team, known as the Green Falcons, is gearing up for a historic appearance in the 2025 Rugby League World Series. This milestone follows their remarkable performance in the Middle East-Africa (MEA) Women’s Rugby League World Cup Qualifiers against Kenya in September 2024.

Historic Victory Over Kenya

In a groundbreaking series, Nigeria faced Kenya in a two-legged qualifier held at the NYS Headquarters in Nairobi. The Green Falcons secured a 22-14 victory in the first match, showcasing their offensive strength. Despite an 8-0 loss in the second match, Nigeria advanced based on aggregate scores, with both teams tied at 22 points each. The tie-breaker came down to goal kicks, where Nigeria edged out Kenya by three goals to two, earning their spot in the World Series.

Preparations for the World Series

As part of their intensive preparations, the Green Falcons will participate in the third edition of the Women’s League, which coincides with the men’s and under-19 leagues. This integrated approach aims to foster a cohesive development environment across all levels of Nigerian rugby league.

Additionally, the team has scheduled friendly matches against the Ghanaian and French national women’s teams. These fixtures are designed to provide the Green Falcons with diverse competitive experiences, essential for honing their strategies ahead of the World Series.

Building on Past Achievements

The Green Falcons’ journey to this point has been marked by significant milestones. In November 2023, they achieved their first international victory by defeating Ghana 40-4 in Lagos. This triumph not only boosted the team’s morale but also signaled Nigeria’s rising prominence in women’s rugby league.

The Nigerian Rugby League Association (NRLA), established in 2019, has been instrumental in this ascent. Under the leadership of Chairman Olawale Cole, the NRLA has focused on developing a robust rugby league infrastructure, including the initiation of national leagues and school competitions. Their efforts have culminated in Nigeria’s elevation to the top spot in Africa and 17th globally in rugby league rankings.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming World Series presents an unprecedented opportunity for the Green Falcons to showcase their talent on a global stage. Facing formidable opponents such as Fiji, Canada, and Ireland, the team is committed to rigorous training and strategic planning. Their participation not only highlights the growth of women’s rugby in Nigeria but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of female athletes in the region.

As the countdown to the World Series continues, the Green Falcons remain focused on their mission to represent Africa with pride and determination, aiming to make a lasting impact in the world of women’s rugby league.