The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved Ghana’s request to use the Accra Sports Stadium to host their third group match against Sudan on October 11, 2024.
This decision follows CAF’s withdrawal of the Baba Yara Stadium, which had been deemed fit as Ghana’s sole venue to host CAF Category 3 matches. In response, the Sports Ministry made swift amendments to upgrade both the Accra Sports Stadium and the Cape Coast Stadium to meet CAF’s Category 3 standards. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) then invited CAF officials to inspect the facilities. After the inspection, CAF approved the Accra Sports Stadium.
A letter from CAF to the GFA read:
“Following a comprehensive review of the reports from CAF’s independent inspection regarding the Cape Coast and Accra Sports Stadia, we are pleased to inform you that the Accra Sports Stadium has been approved to host the AFCON Qualifiers for Morocco 2025. Specifically, it will host the Group F – Matchday 3 encounter between Ghana and Sudan, scheduled for October 11, 2024.”
CAF further urged the GFA and the National Sports Authority (NSA) to continue developing the pitch and stadium to enhance the game experience, noting they would monitor the stadium’s condition for future CAF matches.
“In light of this approval, we kindly request that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the stadium management team prioritize the necessary enhancements to the pitch and other critical areas of the stadium leading up to match day to ensure an optimal experience for both teams and attending fans. Please note that CAF will continue to closely monitor the stadium’s readiness for this match, as well as for future CAF-sanctioned events.”
This decision potentially averts the embarrassment Ghana would have faced if forced to play their home game outside the country.
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Story by: Gabriel Tecco Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
