The first senior international for world ranking points of 2024 will be played on Sunday, January 28, when Ghana’s women host Nigeria at the Mensah Sarbah Field in Legon (kick off 2pm, local time). The nations created history last November in Lagos when playing the first sanctioned women’s fixtures on the continent in Lagos, Nigeria winning 40-4 and 14-6.
Ghana women’s head coach, Riddick Alibah, commented: “We are ready for the game. After analysing our progress from game one to game two, we're confident that this match will be captivating. The team is a bit nervous, fuelled by their strong desire to win. Our training sessions have been productive and our game plan is straightforward, take it step by step, give your all, and fight until the end. Every player is committed to putting forth their best effort, and we're determined to secure a victory.”
Opposite number, Samson Okeowo, said: “The team remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance performance, building on the success of the last two games. The journey to Accra is a crucial step for the Green Falcons as we aim for victory against the Leopardesses, paving the way for our Women’s MEA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Kenya later in the year.”
GHANA SQUAD
Cynthia Anafo, Elizabeth Adongo, Fati Bhon , Mary Obeng, Jennifer Moncar, Fauzia Nurudeen, Hilaria Wuaku (Accra Panthers RLFC), Belinda Ayele, Ivy Benyah, Estelle Haizel , Rose Sewornu, Shamsiya Tahiru, Sheila Tettey (Nungua Tigers), Jacqueline Ansah, Marceline Ashie , Gracelove Hammond, Eunice Lawoe ,Adiza Mohammed, Millicent Njomaba (Skolars RLC)
NIGERIA SQUAD
Umude Blessing Ajiroghene, Obi Stephanie Bella, Oseni Muinat., Innocent Adaeze Precious (Eko Trinity), Elizabeth Adie Nyangbe, Ruth Odey Emuji (Kano Lions), Imoisi Abuovbo, Abbah Chinaza Blessing, Mane Augustar Efe, Aladeyelu Blessing Funmilayo, Bayere Lauretta, Ukoha Sampson Godfirst, Akinde Rukayat, Iyoha Success (Lagos Haven), Ukwuoma Precious Endurance, Akhihiero Pedro Vera, Nwankpa Chioma Justina, Jimoh Rukayat, Grace David Alaba (Zaria Bees)