The Green Falcons of Nigeria are gearing up for an exciting two-match international series against the Leopardess of Ghana, serving as vital preparation for the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series in Canada.

The matches are scheduled for October 7 and 11 at the Alaro City Rugby Pitch, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos. The first game kicks off at 3 p.m., while the second match begins at 12 p.m. Both encounters will count toward world ranking points.

Nigeria holds a perfect record against Ghana, though recent meetings have grown increasingly competitive, a reflection of the rising standard of women’s rugby league across Africa.

The Falcons are currently in camp in Lagos, intensifying preparations with the backing of their main sponsor, a long-time partner of the Nigeria Rugby League Association, alongside Rugby School Nigeria, which is constructing a new pitch that will serve as the team’s permanent training base for the World Series.

The squad’s build-up has been further strengthened by the arrival of assistant coach Luke Shearman from Australia and two Nigerian-Australian players who bring international experience and depth to the team.

No African women’s side has ever featured on rugby league’s global stage, but Nigeria made history by qualifying for the inaugural IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series after defeating Kenya. The tournament offers the Falcons a chance to earn a spot at the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

At the World Series, set for October 21–26 in Brampton, Ontario, Nigeria will face Ireland in the semi-finals, while host nation Canada takes on Fiji. The winners will battle for the final World Cup ticket on October 26, with the losing sides contesting the third-place match, which also contributes to world rankings.