The Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA) has unveiled plans for the groundbreaking Africa All-Stars Exhibition Match, a pivotal event aimed at highlighting the rapid advancement and unity of women’s rugby league across Africa.
Set to take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, the event will occur at Alaro City in Lagos, which spans 2,000 hectares and is part of the Lekki Free Zone.
This landmark match is destined to feature a thrilling showdown between the Africa All-Stars and Nigeria’s national women’s team, the Green Falcons. The Green Falcons have been recognized as one of the top emerging teams in the global rugby league arena.
This exhibition match arrives at a significant moment for African rugby league, particularly following the Green Falcons’ recent success in qualifying for the Rugby League World Series in Canada. This achievement makes them the first African women’s team to do so, underscoring their emerging prowess on the international stage.
The Green Falcons subsequently made an impressive showing at the World Series, finishing as silver medallists, further solidifying Nigeria’s reputation and establishing Africa as a formidable contender in international rugby league.
The Africa All-Stars roster will embody a spirit of continental unity, featuring prominent female athletes from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Uganda. This selection not only showcases the sport’s expanding reach but also signifies a new chapter for women’s rugby league in Africa—one marked by opportunity and visibility.
Organizers anticipate that the exhibition match will draw significant international attention, with representatives from the International Rugby League expected to be in attendance. This highlights the growing global interest and relevance of the sport in Africa.
Beyond the competitive spirit, the event is designed to celebrate African talent and the progress made in women’s sports. It aims to inspire a new generation of female athletes while reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership position in the development of rugby league in Africa.
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The Chairman of the NRLA, Abiodun Olawale-Cole, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming match, describing it as a historic moment for the sport across the continent.
“The Africa All-Stars Exhibition Match is more than just a match; it serves as a celebration of our journey as a continent,” he remarked. “The Green Falcons’ qualification for the World Series and their remarkable silver medal finish demonstrate the potential of African talent on a global scale.”
He added, “Uniting players from various nations to compete against our national team in Lagos represents a powerful moment for the sport and a glimpse into its future. We warmly invite everyone to participate in this historic celebration.”
The NRLA has extended a warm invitation to fans, families, partners, and the broader sports community to attend this match, which promises to be a defining showcase of African excellence and unity in women’s rugby league.
