By: Isaac Tetteh
Ghana is set to become the epicenter of African rugby league this November as it hosts a historic Tri-Nation Series from November 23 to 30, 2025. The tournament, featuring Ghana, Nigeria and the globally recognized ROOTS Rugby Family, promises a week-long celebration that blends elite competition with rich cultural exchange, community engagement, and the forging of lasting connections across the African continent and diaspora.
The series will showcase three exciting international fixtures: Ghana vs Nigeria on November 23, Nigeria vs ROOTS on November 26, and ROOTS vs Ghana on November 29.
The opening match between Ghana and Nigeria marks their third encounter since 2019 and is anticipated to be a thrilling contest, especially as Nigeria enters as the reigning back-to-back Middle East-Africa (MEA) men’s champions and women’s series titleholders. The clash sets the stage for a high-stakes battle on Ghanaian soil.
Ghana’s national teams, backed by a robust domestic program and bolstered by emerging young talent developed through 2025’s development structures, are eager to demonstrate their growth and competitive resolve.
National coach Andy Gilvary expressed confidence despite Nigeria’s strength, stating, “We know what a tough job it will be against the Nigerians, but we’re prepared. This is our chance to showcase the growth of rugby league in Ghana and demonstrate the power of African competition.”
Adding a unique cultural dimension to the tournament is the ROOTS Rugby Family, a team composed of athletes of African descent from around the world. ROOTS will field both men’s and women’s teams and participate in extensive community outreach, school visits, coaching clinics and cultural exchange activities throughout the week. Their tour symbolizes a powerful homecoming, reconnecting the African diaspora with the continent through sport.
“This historic tour represents more than just rugby league; it is a powerful homecoming that strengthens the deep-rooted connections between the African diaspora and the continent,” said Tiana Granby, President of ROOTS Rugby Family.
The Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG), led by President Mrs. Juliana Storey, hailed the event as a pivotal milestone in the growth of rugby league across Africa. “This tour is a celebration of shared identity, unity, and the enduring strength of the global African family,” she remarked.
With fierce battles expected on the field and cultural celebrations off it, the Tri-Nation Series is set to leave a lasting legacy of pride, unity, and potential for rugby league in Ghana and beyond.
