A new chapter of West African rugby is being written as Ghana remain the team to beat in the sub region,

Last Wednesday saw the final of the international friendly dubbed Heritage Cup between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire in the game of Rugby at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium, Accra.

As usual the game went on as it rained but had it had expected intensity, discipline and national pride on full display as both sides battled for supremacy and victory. At the end of proceedings on the soggy pitch Ghana won by 17 to 8 points on December 3, 2025

Ghana’s men’s senior national rugby union 15s team, the Eagles, exhibited strength, speed, stamina, skills and strategy to add Ivory Coast national rugby team, Les Éléphants to their victims,

Nhyira Owusu-Ansah made the first try for the Eagles and followed it up with the second try, giving the Eagles a 10-03 lead in 26 minutes of the game. Budding star Percy then stretched Ghana’s lead with the third try. By half time, the Eagles were out of sight for the visitors with a 17-03 lead.

After recess, the Ivorians fought back and mustered a try and a conversion. However, their efforts in the second half were not enough with Ghana securing a 17 - 8 victory in conjunction with the bragging rights in the regional derby. No point was registered in the second half.

Ghana initiated their victorious campaign with a win over Nigeria on Saturday in the Heritage Cup first match, before beating the experienced Cote d’Ivoire.

The international friendly games were sponsored by Interplast, Sunda Ghana, Kivo, and KEDA.

President of African Rugby Mr. Herbert Mensah was present for both matches and commended the players who defied the rains to defend their national flags. He said the mindset of African leaders towards sports must change, while corporate Ghana  shout not wait as they can get the interest and support some disciplines.

The opening match was graced by Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority and Charles Osei Asibey, Communications Director and Secretary General of the Sports Writers Association. He is also President of Ghana Armwrestling and Ms. Rafatu Inusah, President of Ghana Rugby Football Union.

By Sammy Heywood Okine