Nigeria and Ghana women face each other for the second time in six days in a senor international, back at Alaro City in Lagos tomorrow (Saturday), kick off 4pm local time.
The Green Falcons were dominant in the opening encounter, winning 40-0, as they prepare for the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series in Brampton, Ontario, where a place at the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup is at stake.
Rukayat Akinade and Abiola Obazuaye make way for London Broncos duo Aminah Olaniyan and Danielle Shobanjo who have now linked up with the Nigeria squad and come into contention.
“It’s another great opportunity for us to build on what we learned from our first game and make the necessary adjustments. This match is especially important as it’s our final hit-out before heading to Canada." Nigeria coach Luke Shearman said. "
"We’re focused on putting in a strong performance, sticking to our game plan and executing with precision.”
Ghana will be without Henrietta Arhin who suffered a concussion in the first game but are otherwise unchanged. The squad has spent time reviewing Tuesday’s encounter in daily training with a view to a better display.
“As a team we have learnt a lot and promise an improved performance come Saturday,” said captain Elizabeth Adongo, one of ten players from the Accra club. “This is extremely valuable time together and we intend to make the most of it, we are learning every day."
Nigeria Squad
Faustina Akeje (Canterbury Bulldogs), Precious Ukwuoma, Blessing Umude, Chinaza Abbah, Confidence Ibezilim (Eko Trinity), Lauretta Bayere, Rukayat Jimoh, Adaeze Innocent, Muinat Oseni, , Blessing Aladeyelu (Lagos Bulls), Aminah Olaniyan , Danielle Shobanjo (London Broncos), Catherine Akeje (Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers), Adeola King (Ottawa Tigers RL), Vera Akhihiero-Pedro, Becky Okitipe, Success Iyoha, Adaolisa Onyedika (R2 Finesse), Favour Irimagha (Sheffield Eagles).
Ghana Squad
Elizabeth Adongo, Jacqueline Ansah, Charity Abisitemi Ateng, Ivy Benyah, Fati Bhom, Gracelove Hammond, Eunice Lawoe, Millicent Njomaba, Gifty Sowa Hilaria Wuaku (Accra), Christiana Ndewine (Aduman Secondary), Mary Kesse (Afigya Secondary Technical), Minawara Alhassan, Celestine Kumah, Mariama Musah, Rejoice Osei (Awutu), Grace Nketiah (Pentecost SHS), Maria Tii Pegyine (St. Michaels SHS).