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Ghana and Nigeria to meet in doubleheader

Ghana and Nigeria’s men and women will face each other in a doubleheader at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium in Accra on 23 November 2025, in senior internationals for world ranking points.

It will be their third meeting since 2019, with Nigeria being current back-to-back Middle East-Africa men’s champions, and having beaten their hosts to qualify for the women’s World Series.

“We know what a tough job it will be against the Nigerians,” said Andy Gilvary, Ghana’s national team coach. “But we’re prepared. This is our chance to showcase the growth of rugby league in Ghana and demonstrate the power of African competition.”

Ade Adebisi, vice chairman of the Nigeria Rugby League Association, added: “For both our men’s and women’s teams, these fixtures go beyond competition, Ghana remains a fierce regional rival. We’re building something that will inspire generations across the continent and beyond.”

Nigeria Ghana womenPhoto: Ghana and Nigeria women will meet as part of a double-header
The matches will form part of a festival that will also feature games against Roots United, a side made up of African heritage players from the USARL competition and who have played at the Las Vegas and London 9s tournaments.

Roots men and women will take on Nigeria on November 26 and Ghana three days later, all at the same venue.

The Roots Rugby Family is known for its mission to empower athletes of African descent through sport and community.

“This tour represents both a symbolic and practical return to their roots - bringing together players, coaches and administrators from across the diaspora,” said Roots president and co-founder Tiana Granby, a cousin of former professional player Roy Asotasi.

“This historic tour represents more than just rugby league - it is a powerful homecoming that strengthens the deep-rooted connections with the African diaspora.”

Their tour will include training clinics, school visits and collaborative workshops that engage grassroots players and local communities. 

“The Rugby League Federation Ghana is proud to be at the heart of this historic occasion, seeing it as a defining step in the continent’s rugby league journey,” noted RLFG president Juliana Storey.

“This tour is a celebration of shared identity, unity, and the enduring strength of the global African family. We look forward to unforgettable matches, lasting friendships, and the continued growth of rugby league in Ghana and beyond.”