Africa Men’s Sevens: Stallions Clinch Jollof Derby Win Over Ghana, Secure 7th Place

Africa Men’s Sevens: Stallions Clinch Jollof Derby Win Over Ghana, Secure 7th Place

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Stallions concluded their 2025 Africa Men’s Sevens campaign in style, edging out rivals Ghana 19–12 in the much-anticipated “Jollof Derby” to secure a 7th-place finish, a significant improvement from their 11th-place result in the previous edition, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The victory over the Leopards of Ghana not only delivered rugby bragging rights but added a playful chapter to the nations' famed Jollof rice rivalry.

The tournament was a mixed bag for the Stallions, who opened their campaign with a tough 17–5 loss to continental giants South Africa.

Despite the defeat, Nigeria earned plaudits for their resilient defence and fighting spirit. They bounced back strongly in their second group game, dominating Burkina Faso with a commanding 29–12 victory that reignited confidence within the squad.

A tightly contested final group match against Zambia saw the Stallions narrowly lose 14–7 in one of the tournament’s most intense encounters. In the quarterfinals, Nigeria faced Kenya’s Shujaa, one of Africa’s top rugby sides.

Hampered by injuries to key players, the Stallions fought bravely but fell 43–12 to the Kenyan powerhouse. Determined to finish strong, the team met Zambia again in the placement rounds.

It was another thrilling battle, with Nigeria pushing their opponents to the limit before narrowly losing 26–22.

In their final match, the Stallions locked horns with Ghana in the rivalry-charged Jollof Derby. Nigeria displayed energy, composure, and tactical discipline to claim a well-earned 19–12 win, closing the tournament on a high note.

The 7th-place finish reflects Nigeria's progress, resilience, and growing presence in African rugby, signalling brighter days ahead for the Stallions.