The Nigeria women’s rugby team, the Green Falcons, have made history by qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup Series, becoming the first-ever women’s team from the Middle East and Africa to do so, as reported by Sports Macro.
In an exciting two-legged qualifier hosted by Kenya Rugby League at the NYS Headquarters in Nairobi, Nigeria and Kenya faced off in the inaugural rugby league Women’s World Cup qualifier in Africa. Nigeria won the first match 22-14 on September 19, 2024, but Kenya fought back, claiming the second match 8-0 on September 22, 2024.
The teams ended the series tied on points at 22-22, with both scoring four tries each. However, Nigeria advanced thanks to their three successful goals compared to Kenya’s two, alongside two field goals from Kenya.
As Africa’s sole representative in the 2025 World Series, Nigeria will compete for a chance to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Rugby World Cup, facing the Americas winner, Asia-Pacific runners-up, and the playoff winner between Ireland or Greece.
The winner of the 2025 World Series will secure a spot in the IRL Women’s World Cup 2026, joining teams like England, Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, Wales, and France.
