Nigeria women’s national rugby league team, the Green Falcons, lost 62–4 to Fiji in the final of the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series 2025 at the Terry Fox Stadium in Canada on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The result ended Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup 2026, as Fiji secured the eighth and final spot with the victory.
Head coach Bolu Fagborun named a strong and balanced line-up for the final, with Aladeyelu Blessing starting at fullback and Iyoha Success and Ukwuoma Endurance operating on the wings. Siobhan Sheerin and Abiola Obazuaye featured in the centres, while Shondell Akhabue and Innocent Adaeze combined in the halves.
In the forwards, Adeola King and Fedelia Omoghan anchored the front row alongside hooker Becky Okitikpe, with Rachel Iliya and Vera Pedro in the second row. Faustina Akeje started at lock.
The Bulikula led 28–4 at half-time and piled on 34 unanswered points in the second half, producing a clinical display to seal their first-ever qualification for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.
While Fiji ran away with the scoreline, Nigeria, however, showed character and commitment throughout the tournament, reaching the final after defeating Ireland 10–0 in the semi-final. Against Fiji, the Green Falcons fought bravely but were unable to match the Pacific Islanders’ pace and power.
Despite the defeat, the Green Falcons’ campaign in Canada was a statement of intent for Nigerian rugby league. Their defensive discipline, athleticism, and teamwork throughout the tournament highlighted the nation’s rapid growth in the sport.
Fiji will now join Australia, New Zealand, England, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, France, and Wales as the eight women’s teams contesting the Rugby League World Cup 2026 in Australia and Papua New Guinea at the end of next season.
