The Stallions of Nigeria capped off their 2025 Africa Men’s Sevens campaign in style with a spirited 19–12 victory over West African rivals Ghana in what fans affectionately dubbed the “Jollof Derby.”

The win not only handed Nigeria bragging rights in the long-standing culinary rivalry but also secured a commendable 7th-place finish — a notable improvement from their 11th-place outing in the previous edition.

Nigeria’s journey in Mauritius was a rollercoaster of emotions. They opened their campaign with a tough test against tournament giants, South Africa. Despite a 17–5 loss to the Blitzboks, the Stallions earned plaudits for their resilient defense and refusal to fold under pressure.

Their response was swift and emphatic. Facing Burkina Faso in their second group game, Nigeria dominated proceedings, running out 29–12 winners in a performance that rekindled belief within the team and their supporters.

The group stage closed with a tense battle against Zambia. In one of the most tightly contested fixtures of the round, the Stallions fought tooth and nail but were edged 14–7 in a game that could’ve gone either way.

In the quarterfinals, Nigeria squared off against Kenya’s Shujaa, one of Africa’s most formidable rugby sevens sides. Hampered by injuries to key players, the Stallions put up a brave fight but ultimately fell 43–12 to the high-flying Kenyans.

Determined to finish strong, Nigeria re-encountered Zambia in the placement rounds. The rematch was another nail-biter, with both sides trading tries and tackles in a high-tempo clash. But once again, the Stallions were narrowly beaten, this time 26–22.

That set the stage for the final classic West African showdown against Ghana.Nigeria came out with energy. The 19–12 victory sealed not just 7th place but a statement that Nigerian rugby is on the rise.

This finish marks clear progress for the Stallions, reflecting their resilience.

[6/24, 10:33 AM] Amazon Nengi: Super Falcons Hold Portugal in 0–0 Draw Ahead of WAFCON

By Nengi Ernest 

The Super Falcons of Nigeria battled to a hard-fought 0–0 draw against Portugal in a pre-WAFCON international friendly played in Lisbon on Monday.

Despite arriving in Portugal less than 24 hours before kickoff, the nine-time African champions showed resilience, quality, and tactical discipline against the 21st-ranked European side.

At the heart of Nigeria’s impressive showing was Chiamaka Nnadozie, who delivered a standout performance between the sticks. Chiamaka pulled off crucial saves in the 9th and 24th minutes, and again in the second half, to keep the game goalless and frustrate the Portuguese attack.

Up front, the Falcons were not short on attacking intent, pressing high, and stretching the Portuguese backline. Rinsola Babajide came closest to breaking the deadlock just before halftime but misjudged her final touch with only the keeper to beat.

A trio of second-half substitutions Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimatu Ayinde injected fresh energy and sharpened Nigeria’s control of the game. Ordega nearly turned provider in the 64th minute with a clever move and cross, but Onumonu’s attempt narrowly missed the target.

The Super Falcons will now head to Casablanca on Wednesday, where they face arch-rivals Ghana’s Black Queens in another warm-up match on Sunday.

Nigeria kicks off their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Tunisia on July 6th in Casablanca.