Nigeria’s Women’s Rugby League team, the Green Falcons, are on the brink of making sporting history as they battle Fiji’s Bulikula for a spot at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Australia.
The highly anticipated final of the International Rugby League World Series in Canada presents a golden opportunity for Nigeria to become the first-ever African women’s rugby league team to qualify for the global tournament — and indeed, the first Nigerian rugby or oval-ball team, male or female, to reach the World Cup stage.
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The Green Falcons booked their place in the final after a commanding 10-0 victory over Ireland in the semifinals, while Fiji thrashed hosts Canada 48-0 to set up a mouthwatering showdown between two sides known for their physical, fast-paced brand of rugby.
Earlier in the day, Ireland and Canada will clash in the bronze medal match.
Beyond the on-field action, the Green Falcons’ journey has also drawn significant off-field support — notably from Dr. Adeleye King, a Canada-based Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for youth development.
Dr. King, the CEO of Sagewise Financial Canada, which is the first Black-owned fintech institution in the country, has been one of the team’s most visible supporters during their stay in Canada. His daughter, Adeola King, who plays as a left prop for the Green Falcons, is among the foreign-based players strengthening Nigeria’s squad at the tournament.
Dr. King, who visited the team during their Lagos training camp and attended their friendly matches against Ghana, emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of Nigerian athletes.
“It was an honor to host the Nigerian women’s national rugby team at our home in Canada,” he said. “Watching these talented young women grow in confidence, unity, and skill has been truly inspiring.”
“Supporting these athletes isn’t just about giving back; it’s about investing in the future of Nigerian girls who dare to dream big. By providing platforms like this, we’re unlocking their potential and showing that talent from Nigeria can shine globally,” he added.
Dr. King’s involvement has been praised by Nigerian rugby stakeholders, including “Mr. Rugby” Obong Ntiense Williams, who currently coaches five of the Falcons’ players from Edo State.
Both men share a vision of expanding opportunities for young Nigerians through rugby — both at home and in the diaspora.
At Sagewise Financial, Dr. King says the mission aligns perfectly with supporting youth excellence:
“We’re committed to opening doors for those who pursue excellence. This partnership with the Nigerian women’s rugby league team reflects our vision for empowerment through opportunity.”
As the Green Falcons prepare for their biggest test yet against Fiji, they do so not only carrying Nigeria’s hopes — but the dreams of an entire continent.
A victory would mark a defining moment for African rugby and reinforce the belief that with the right support and determination, Nigerian athletes can take their place on the world stage.
