The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has identified several issues with the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, forcing it to withdraw its approval in hosting international games.
According to a report from the Ghana Football Association (GFA), CAF has requested that alternative venues are used for the next two qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The continent’s football-governing body had raised concerns about the playing field before Ghana’s 1-0 loss to Angola.
“It is important to note that, prior to the match, CAF had expressed concerns about the suitability of Baba Yara Sports Stadium for hosting top-tier international fixtures,” CAF stated in its letter to the GFA.
“Persistent issues at this venue, as well as others in Ghana, such as Cape Coast Stadium and Accra Sports Stadium, have also been noted.”
CAF has, nonetheless, expressed commitment to ensure that all international stadiums in Ghana meet its standards.
It has, therefore, recommended to relevant authorities to “conduct a comprehensive assessment of all major international stadiums in Ghana to ensure they comply with CAF technical standards”.
It has also offered to provide an international pitch consultant with experience in major international competitions, including AFCON, to offer additional expert guidance on the necessary improvements. The cost of this support would, however, be borne by the GFA.
