BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE
President of Nigeria Rugby League Association, Abiodun Olawale-Cole has commended Nigeria’s female national rugby league team known as Green Falcons for qualifying for the women’s 2025 World Series after hard fought two matches series against Kenya in Nairobi.
Although Kenya won Sunday second match 8-0 but Nigeria advanced after winning 22-14 last Thursday in Nairobi.
The World Series will played next year between Nigeria (Africa) the winners of a playoff between Greece and Ireland,(Europe) and the winners of America’s and Asia Pacific qualifying tournaments.The winner will gain final of 2026 World Cup berth.
Olawale-Cole while reacting to the team’s success in Nairobi said they deserved applause and commendation for the two legged matches.
“On behalf of the association, I congratulate our girls for his historic feat recorded in Kenya.They went, saw and conquered.Honestly they deserve our applause and commendation.The female team known as Green Falcons emerged victorious in Nairobi, defeating Kenya to win the Middle East and African Championship.
“This incredible win qualifies Nigeria to represent the entire region at the 2025 World Series for the World Cup qualifiers.I would like to extend my congratulations to both teams for an outstanding performance. A special commendation goes to the Green Falcons for not only making Nigeria proud but for carrying the hopes of the Middle East and Africa forward onto the world stage.
“The ladies played a hard-fought match, showing tremendous dedication and resilience throughout their time in camp, resulting in a strong team once again congratulations for the job well done in Kenya,”he said
Olawale-Cole reminded the players the task ahead urging them to remain focused and determined to win next year World Series.
He also commended the sponsors for their financial and moral support given the team since they started preparation for the qualifying match against Kenya
“Let me use this medium once again to thank our sponsors for their continued support.They really tried for us from the beginning and we are happy today that we did not disappoint them at the end of the qualifying match,”he said.
Some of the sponsors who threw their weight behind the Nigeria’s team are Alaro City, Headway, Aerial Robotix, Chappal Energies and Rainbow Academy.
Olawale-Cole however also stated that the Green Falcons victory will serve as an inspiration for the next generation of young women, motivating them to aim for greatness.
He said the future of rugby is bright and reitriated his association commitment to further developing rugby across Nigeria and Africa, ensuring a brighter future for the sport.
