Nigeria’s women’s rugby league team stun Ireland in Brampton to book a historic final clash against Fiji — one win away from qualifying for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Nigeria’s women’s national rugby league team, the Green Falcons, delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday, defeating Ireland 10–0 in the semi-final of the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series 2025 at Terry Fox Stadium in Brampton, Canada.
- Nigeria’s women’s rugby league team stun Ireland in Brampton to book a historic final clash against Fiji — one win away from qualifying for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
- Arrival in Canada and Road to the Semi-Finals
- How Nigeria Sealed the Win
- Fiji Await in the Final
- Beyond the Field: A Win for African Women’s Rugby
It was a statement win for the African champions, who led 4–0 at half-time and held firm under intense pressure to secure a historic ticket to the tournament’s final — just one victory away from qualifying for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Arrival in Canada and Road to the Semi-Finals
The Falcons had arrived in Brampton, Ontario, a week earlier, led by captain Blessing Aladeyelu, with a 19-player squad full of promise and determination. Their opening clash against Ireland was billed as a test of their resilience — and the Nigerian side more than lived up to the challenge.
From the first whistle, the Green Falcons played with composure and defensive discipline. Prop Fedelia Omoghan broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, crashing through the Irish line to score the game’s opening try.
Just before half-time, Ireland’s Lily Rogan threatened to equalize, but the Nigerian defense held firm — a defining moment that underlined their mental toughness. The halftime whistle blew with Nigeria maintaining a 4–0 lead and momentum on their side.
How Nigeria Sealed the Win
In the 69th minute, second-rower Rachel Iliya pounced on a loose ball and sprinted 85 metres to score under the posts, igniting celebrations across the Nigerian bench. Faustina Akeje converted to seal a 10–0 victory, one that will go down as one of the team’s finest moments.
Head coach Bolu Fagborun hailed the team’s grit and unity:
“We set our goal to defend really well, and the girls executed that brilliantly. We knew if we kept them from scoring, we’d win the game — and that’s exactly what happened. This result means a lot for Nigerian rugby league and for the Middle East–Africa region.”
Nigeria fielded a well-balanced side featuring Umude Blessing at fullback, Iyoha Success and Ukwuoma Endurance on the wings, and Shondell Akhabue combining with Innocent Adaeze in the halves. In the forwards, Adeola King, Fedelia Omoghan, and Becky Okitikpe anchored a resolute pack.
Fiji Await in the Final
The victory sets up a mouthwatering final clash with Fiji, who demolished hosts Canada 48–0 in the other semi-final. The decider is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, once again at Terry Fox Stadium.
The winner will claim the final women’s qualification spot for the IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026 — and for Nigeria, that would be a milestone achievement, marking their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Beyond the Field: A Win for African Women’s Rugby
Beyond the scoreboard, this victory represents something much bigger — a breakthrough for African women in rugby league. The Green Falcons’ success continues to inspire young girls across Nigeria and the continent, proving that resilience, teamwork, and belief can shatter barriers on the global stage.
With their eyes now set on Fiji, one thing is certain: the Green Falcons are not just playing to win — they are playing to make history.
