The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has withdrawn its approval for the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, due to several technical infractions, with the most significant issue being the poor condition of the playing field. CAF’s decision came after a post-match inspection after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifying game between Ghana and Angola on September 5, 2024.
The inspection identified various problems with the pitch, including uneven surfaces, inadequate drainage, and insufficient grass cover, rendering the stadium unsuitable for international matches.
This withdrawal affects Ghana’s ability to host upcoming AFCON qualifiers and other international fixtures, requiring the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to find alternative venues outside the country. CAF has suggested immediate renovations to the stadium and offered to provide expert consultancy to Ghana to upgrade the pitch to meet international standards.
This situation puts Ghanaian football in a challenging position, but it also presents an opportunity for authorities to enhance the country’s sports infrastructure.
