Ghana Rugby Union 15s Team, The Eagles devour Nigeria’s Black Stallions and Elephants of Cote D’Ivoire at Heritage Cup

Ghana’s rise in West African rugby continues to gather pace, reaffirming their dominance in the sub-region with another assertive display in Accra.

The University of Ghana Rugby Stadium hosted the grand finale of the Heritage Cup on Wednesday, where the Eagles claimed a 17–8 win over Côte d’Ivoire in a rain-soaked encounter. The wet conditions did little to dull the energy on the turf, as both sides played with intensity, discipline and pride, each determined to leave with regional bragging rights.

Ghana started brightly and never looked back. Nhyira Owusu-Ansah crossed the line twice within 26 minutes to give the hosts a 10–3 advantage. Rising talent Percy added a third try shortly after, stretching the lead to 17–3 by halftime and putting the visitors under heavy pressure.

The Ivorians rallied after the break, securing a try and conversion as they attempted to claw their way back. But Ghana’s defence stood firm, ensuring no further points were scored in the second half and sealing a deserved victory.

That win followed the Eagles’ earlier triumph over Nigeria in the opening Heritage Cup fixture, making it back-to-back successes against regional rivals and a strong statement of intent for Ghana rugby.

The friendly tournament was supported by Interplast, Sunda Ghana, Kivo and KEDA.

African Rugby President Herbert Mensah witnessed both matches and praised the teams for competing fiercely despite the weather. He called for greater commitment from African sports administrators and urged corporate Ghana to broaden its support beyond mainstream disciplines.

The opening game drew notable officials including National Sports Authority Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Sports Writers Association Secretary General Charles Osei Asibey — who also heads Ghana Armwrestling — and Ghana Rugby Football Union President Rafatu Inusah, signalling growing interest around the sport’s development in the country.