Ghana Women’s Rugby Prepares for Lagos Test Series Against Nigeria

The Ghana women’s rugby team, popularly known as the Leopardess, is fired up for their highly anticipated international test series against Nigeria in Lagos.

According to a report by PUNCH Sports Extra, the team received a major morale boost when the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, visited the squad ahead of their departure to Lagos. The Leopardess will face Nigeria in a three-match series scheduled for October 4, 7, and 11.

The opening game will take place at Rugby School Nigeria in Eko Atlantic City, with the remaining two fixtures to be held at Alaro City.

During his visit, Ankrah praised the players’ dedication and reminded them of the responsibility they carry as pioneers of women’s rugby in Ghana.

“I believe in your talent and determination. I can see this is a very young team, and that really reflects the future plans of the federation,” Ankrah said.

He urged the squad to stay disciplined, united, and proud as they represent Ghana. His presence inspired the team, while also reaffirming the NSA’s commitment to developing women’s sports and promoting rugby league at the grassroots level.

Ranked 24th in the world, the Leopardess named a youthful squad drawn from domestic clubs and schools. Accra Ladies dominate the lineup, including captain Elizabeth Adongo and assistant captain Hilaria Wuaku, alongside players such as Millicent Njomaba, Jacqueline Ansah, Princess Avorkah, Gracelove Hammond, Fati Bhom, Ivy Benyah, Gifty Sowah, and Eunice Lawoe.

From Awutu Ladies, Celestine Kumah, Mariama Musah, Minawara Alhassan, and Henrietta Arhin made the cut, while schools contributed Grace Nketiah (Pentecost SHS), Maria Tii Pegyine (St. Michaels SHS), Kesse Mary (Afigya Secondary Technical), and Christiana Ndewine (Aduman Secondary). Coaches Riddick Alibah and Julius Fiakpornu will lead the team.

Nigeria, unbeaten against Ghana in their three previous encounters, enter the series as favourites. The matches will also serve as a crucial build-up to the Women’s Rugby League World Cup qualifiers in Canada.

Nigeria’s head coach, Bolu Fagboran, said the series is vital for building intensity and cohesion ahead of the global qualifiers.

“Our three weeks of preparation in Nigeria are absolutely vital. It will allow us to train at elite intensity, build cohesion, and ensure every player is ready to compete on the world stage,” Fagboran noted.

He added that the fixtures are more than just warm-up games, describing them as “a statement about the potential of African women in rugby league.”

Assistant coach Luke Shearman, who travelled from Australia alongside two Australian-based Nigerian players, echoed the excitement.

“The talent here is incredible, and I believe Nigeria has the potential to surprise the world,” Shearman said.

The series is proudly sponsored by Alaro City, a long-term partner of Nigeria Rugby League, which is also developing a purpose-built pitch that will serve as Nigeria’s World Series training camp.