Ghana’s Senior national men’s rugby union 15s team, the Eagles, defeated the Black Stallions of Nigeria 38-11 to register their first win in the maiden Rugby Union Heritage Cup Saturday at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium in Accra.
This match marked a significant milestone for Ghana rugby, especially considering Nigeria’s prolonged absence from competitive rugby due to the country’s federation being dissolved on May 4, 2021, and only recently getting a new leader on October 26, 2025.
A Solid Start
The first half produced some wonderful performances from both teams as the Eagles dominated and pinned the Black Stallions for most part of the game. It ended 26-6 against Nigeria.
Second-Half Resolve
Ghana scored 12 points in the second half, while Nigeria scored 6. Despite their defeat, Nigeria’s captain, Obi Wilson, praised the Ghanaian team’s performance and acknowledged the competitive spirit of the match.
The captain Obi Wilson pledged to use this game as a turn around as they seek to bounce back.
“We will go back home and get ourselves prepared for our next games. We believe it’s friendly, and we didn’t lose, we go back home and get better. We still have more friendlies to play, and our team will get better,” he said.
The head coach, Collin Osborne was full of optimism after the match.
“It’s great to see the game growing in Ghana. I’ve been working with the Ghana Rugby Football Union for seven to eight years now,” he told the media.
I’m very happy for today’s victory. Any nation that has a natural rival is important because it builds the atmosphere and grows the game in both countries.”
Captain Lukman Yaya on his impression of the game stated
“I am very impressed with our performance today. Some of us came to join the other local players in Ghana, and we only had one training session with the coach on Friday. Any African team that wants to play us, we are ready.”
Rafatu Inusah, President of Ghana Rugby Football Union, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in the 2025 Rugby Heritage Cup. Here’s what she said:
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one that made today possible, including you, the media. And of course, to our Nigerian friends, thank you for coming and honouring our invitation. There should be a return match in Nigeria, hopefully next year.”
She further stated: “Team Ghana, the Eagles played their best. It’s sports, and we are happy they won. At the end of the day, it’s all about sports, and we go back united again. To our corporate bodies, we want to say thank you very much, Kivo, Sunda, Interplast, KEDA, and all our sponsors; we’re very grateful.”
The President also announced the Eagles’ upcoming match against Ivory Coast on December 3 at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium.
A Call for More Competitive Rugby in West Africa
The President of Rugby Africa, Mr. Herbert Mensah, highlighted the region’s potential and the need for stronger structures to advance the sport. He stressed the importance of regular high-level competition across the sub-region, citing East Africa’s consistent rugby matches as an example.
About the 2025 Heritage Cup
The 2025 Heritage Cup brings Ghana and Nigeria face-to-face in a thrilling rugby showdown, celebrating unity, pride, and African sporting excellence. The tournament aims to strengthen Ghana-Nigeria ties through rugby development and positive rivalry.
Credit: GRFU Communications
