Nigeria’s Green Falcons are flying into history as they prepare to represent Africa and the Middle East at the inaugural IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series, taking place this October in Canada. This marks a monumental milestone not only for Nigeria but for the entire African continent, the first time an African women’s rugby league team will compete on the global stage.
The historic tournament, supported by the City of Brampton, Ontario, will feature four powerhouse teams from the IRL’s regional divisions — Canada (Americas), Fiji (Asia-Pacific), Ireland (Europe), and Nigeria (Middle East & Africa). The semi-final fixtures will see Ireland face Nigeria and Canada battle Fiji on October 21 at Terry Fox Stadium, Brampton. Winners will advance to the grand final on October 26 at Lamport Stadium, Toronto, the former home ground of the legendary Toronto Wolfpack.
Green Falcons
Nigeria’s qualification journey was as dramatic as it was inspiring. The Green Falcons edged out Kenya in a fiercely contested two-match series last year, advancing on a razor-thin points differential, a victory that announced Africa’s arrival on rugby league’s global radar.
Vice President of Nigeria Rugby League, Ade Adebisi, expressed pride in the team’s groundbreaking achievement: “We are honoured to represent not just Nigeria, but the entire African continent at the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Series. This is a groundbreaking moment for African women in sport, proving that rugby league is a viable pathway for young female athletes beyond the traditional sports that dominate the continent.”
He added that the team is prepared for the challenge: “Ireland will be tough, but we are ready. Competing against some of the best teams in the world will only make us stronger. Our participation will inspire the next generation to dream bigger — knowing they too can wear their national colours on the world stage.”
Nigeria’s Green Falcons have become a symbol of perseverance, progress, and pride. Their journey from local pitches to international arenas underscores the spirit of African excellence, bold, unyielding, and determined to soar.
As they head to Canada this October, the Green Falcons will be playing for visibility, for the future of women’s rugby in Africa, and for every girl who dares to believe that her dreams belong on the world stage.
