Ghanaian soccer followers are in for a disappointment because the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi has been deemed unfit to host worldwide matches by the Confederation of African Soccer (CAF).
This resolution follows a sequence of technical infractions noticed through the current Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying match between Ghana and Angola held on September 5, 2024.
The first concern raised by CAF inspectors is the subpar situation of the enjoying area.
The stadium, which boasts a capability of over 40,000 spectators, witnessed important deterioration of its pitch, together with uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and insufficient grass cowl.
These shortcomings forestall the stadium from assembly the required requirements for internet hosting Class 3 worldwide matches as per CAF rules.
This isn’t the primary time CAF has expressed issues about Ghanaian stadiums.
The letter issued by CAF highlights earlier warnings relating to the state of the Baba Yara Stadium, together with Cape Coast Stadium and Accra Sports activities Stadium.
The shortage of other venues assembly CAF’s Class 3 standards has created a predicament for the Ghana Soccer Affiliation (GFA).
To handle the scenario, CAF has requested the GFA to determine an appropriate venue exterior Ghana for the upcoming Matchday 3 and 4 of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 qualifiers.
Emphasizing the urgency of enhancements, CAF has urged the Ghanaian authorities to undertake a complete evaluation of all main worldwide stadiums to make sure compliance with their technical requirements.
Past the speedy disaster, CAF has provided its assist to Ghana in restoring its stadiums to worldwide requirements.
This assist contains offering an skilled pitch guide, specializing in main worldwide competitions like AFCON, to supply professional steering on the required renovations.
The price of this consultancy can be borne by the GFA.
Following the completion of the renovations, CAF has dedicated to conducting an impartial inspection on the GFA’s request and expense to reassess the Baba Yara Stadium’s suitability for future matches.
The GFA has acknowledged the scenario and pledged to collaborate with the federal government to expedite the required upgrades and restore the Baba Yara Stadium to its former glory.
This growth casts a shadow over Ghana’s upcoming worldwide fixtures in October, forcing them to hunt various venues exterior the nation.