The 2025 Tri-Nation Rugby League Festival wrapped up in style at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium on Sunday, with Ghana’s men’s national team, the Leopards, earning their first-ever win over Roots Rugby in a 28–16 victory.
The visiting Roots Rugby side earlier in the week defeated the President’s Team 38-28 in a historic meeting, packed with power, pace, and pure passion.
Sunday’s clash was expected to be the icing on an exceptional showing for Roots Rugby, but the Leopards of Ghana had other ideas, employing blistering pace coupled with physical presence to outrun defenders and score tries while making crucial defensive plays to thwart the opposition’s efforts.
The Leopards made use of their fullbacks, wingers, and forwards to chase down their opponents, running relentlessly to score tries and conversions, sealing a historic win to close the festival.
In the women’s game, Roots came out strong once again, beating the Ghana National Women’s Team 38–0.
Team Ashanti Region defeated Greater Accra 34–0 in the girls’ match, while in the boys’ game, Greater Accra edged out Ashanti Region 10–6 in a tight contest.
Beyond the field action, this year’s festival also marked a major step forward in Ghana’s technical development.
International Rugby League (IRL) Referee Educator James Jones delivered an intensive officiating programme with Ghanaian match officials throughout the week to raise standards and support Ghana’s journey toward full IRL membership.
General Manager of the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) Mr Jafaru Mustapha noted that his presence, insights, and training were a significant highlight of the festival.
“Every match added its own story, energy, and contribution to the growth of rugby league in Ghana. From national pride and youth development to international experience and world-class officiating training, the Tri-Nation Festival showcased how far rugby league has come and how boldly Ghana is stepping into the future.”