The Ministry of Youth and Sports has directed the Ghana Football Association to request an urgent inspection by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of two stadiums in Accra.
This follows CAF’s decision to revoke the Baba Yara Stadium‘s Category 3 status due to its poor pitch conditions.
A statement issued by the Ministry on September 12, 2024, addressed the need for stadium inspections in Ghana
however “The Ministry of Youth and Sports is confident that the University of Ghana and Accra Sports Stadia will meet the requirements for CAF’s Category 3 matches after the inspection, and again reiterate its commitment to upgrading the remaining national stadia to meet the standards required for CAF Category 3 matches”
The Ministry wants CAF to assess the Accra Sports Stadium and the University of Ghana Stadium as potential alternative venues for upcoming international matches.
The Baba Yara Stadium was deemed unfit due to its deteriorating pitch, and the Ministry has tasked the National Sports Authority (NSA) to address the issues.
Meanwhile, the Accra Sports Stadium has undergone improvements, and the University of Ghana Stadium is yet to be assessed for Category 3 certification.
The Ministry is confident that both stadiums will meet the required standards and is committed to upgrading sports infrastructure.
Ghana must secure CAF approval for suitable venues to avoid playing home matches abroad during AFCON qualifiers and other international fixtures.