By Vivian Ahanmisi
The Nigerian women rugby team, Green Falcons on Saturday defeated the Leopardess of Ghana 24–8 in the second leg of their two-match international friendly series.
The match was held at the Alaro City Rugby Pitch in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Green Falcons displayed strong performance, defeating the Leopardess in a closely contested match.
The win is a step forward in Nigeria’s preparations for the World Rugby Series, scheduled to hold later in October in Canada.
The friendly series against Ghana provided valuable experience and exposure for the Green Falcons as they fine-tune their skills ahead of the international tournament.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Rugby League, Abiodun Cole, expressed confidence in the Green Falcons’ ability to perform well in an upcoming tournament in Canada.
In spite of acknowledging the challenges posed by the cold climate and professional opponents, Cole emphasised the team’s strong chemistry and determination.
He said: “We are aware of the tough competition we will face, particularly from Ireland, but we are confident in our team’s abilities.
“With the strength of our players and the guidance of our coaches, we are looking forward to putting up a good show in Canada.”
Cole revealed that the team’s preparation had been focused on fine-tuning their skills and building teamwork.
“We have been working hard to ensure that our players are well-prepared and cohesive as a unit.
“Our coaches and support staff have done an excellent job in identifying and recruiting talented players of Nigerian descent from around the world.
“The team’s strategy involves combining local players with those based abroad to create a formidable squad,” he said.
He commended the team’s sponsors and supporters, who had helped to facilitate the recruitment process.
“We are grateful for the support we have received from our sponsors and fans.
“With their backing, we are confident that we can make a strong impression in Canada,” he said.
The Assistant Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Martin Duru, called for increased support for rugby in Nigeria, citing the sport’s potential to generate revenue and attract investment.
Duru, also the Coordinator of the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, made the plea while watching the friendly match between Nigeria and Ghana.
“I will do whatever I can, talk to people and let them know that it is time for us to support rugby the way we support other sports,” he said.
According to Duru, the standard of rugby in Nigeria was impressive and comparable to any world rugby team.
“What I’m seeing is comparable to any world rugby team I have seen.
“They can compete with any country in the world,” he said.
He noted that many Nigerians who watched the match agreed with him and were impressed by the players’ skills and determination.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogbelende, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to developing rugby and supporting athletes.
“We’re here to support, encourage, and advocate for collaboration in developing rugby in Lagos State.
“It’s all about collaborative efforts and how we all come together to encourage our athletes so that they can continue to compete on a global scale,” he said.
On the development of sports infrastructure in Lagos, Ogbelende said the state government was building 10 stadia across the state.
“Our intention is to give our youths access to facilities and infrastructure to train and compete on a global scale,” he said.
The commissioner expressed gratitude to Alaro City for providing top-class facilities for the match, adding that such collaborations would help develop rugby in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that for defeating Ghana in the second leg, the Green Falcons have gained momentum ahead of their World Rugby Series engagement in Canada.
NAN also reports that the friendly match is part of Nigeria’s preparations for the World Rugby Series in Canada. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Kamal Tayo Oropo
