Green Falcons land in Canada for Women’s Rugby League World Series Semi-Final Against Ireland

Nigeria’s women’s national rugby league team, the Green Falcons, have safely arrived in Canada ahead of their crucial semi-final clash with Ireland in the Women’s Rugby League World Series, a key qualifier for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup.

The Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA) confirmed the team’s arrival on Monday, expressing optimism about their chances of advancing to the final stage of the global qualifiers.

The Falcons departed Lagos on Friday, October 17, following an intensive training camp that concluded with two dominant victories over the Ghana women’s team — a 40–0 thrashing in the first encounter and a 24–8 win in the second. According to the NRLA, the results reflect the squad’s growing technical discipline, teamwork, and confidence.

Head coach Bolu Fagborun leads a 19-player squad captained by Success Iyoha, with key players including Blessing Funmilayo Aladeyelu, Endurance Ukwuoma, Blessing Umude, and Shondell Akhabue. Other notable names in the team are Adaeze Innocent, Adeola King, Rukayat Akinade, Fedelia Omoghan, Danyelle Shobanjo, Siobhan Sheerin, Faustina Akeje, Becky Okitikpe, and Catherine Akeje.

Also part of the squad are Rachel Iliya, Chinaza Abbah, Vera Pedro, Lauretta Bayere, and Abiola Obazuaye, while Aminah Oluwabunmi travels as a development and injury cover player.

The semi-final winner between Nigeria and Ireland will progress to the World Series Final, joining the victor of the other semi-final between host nation Canada and Fiji. Both finalists will move a step closer to qualification for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

The Falcons’ delegation includes NRLA vice chairman Ade Adebisi, general manager Isah Saulawa, assistant coach Luke Sheerman, domestic head coach Samson Okeowooluseye, director of media Mozez Praiz, and team official Oneta.

The NRLA expressed confidence that the Green Falcons will continue to represent Nigeria with pride and strengthen the country’s growing presence in women’s rugby league on the global stage.