The National Sports Authority (NSA) has temporarily shut down the Accra Sports Stadium and Cape Coast Sports Stadium for much-needed maintenance.
This move aims to upgrade the facilities to meet international standards ahead of upcoming matches, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Sudan in October, according to reports by JoySports.
The closure follows a directive from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) prohibiting the use of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium for senior international matches due to its poor pitch condition. CAF recommended reconstructing the playing surface, but the NSA is taking temporary measures to ensure the stadium’s availability for the AFCON qualifier.
In response, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has instructed the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to engage CAF in inspecting the Accra Sports Stadium and the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon. While Accra Stadium is listed in CAF’s database, it requires significant upgrades. The Legon stadium, however, may not meet the necessary standards.
Possible Venues for AFCON Qualifier
- Cape Coast Sports Stadium: Likely host for Ghana vs. Sudan, pending unforeseen circumstances
- Accra Sports Stadium: Requires upgrades to meet CAF standards
- University of Ghana Stadium: May not meet necessary standards
- Alternate option: Playing the game in Togo
The GFA held discussions with the Sports Ministry and NSA on September 6, 2024, regarding the urgent need to renovate the Cape Coast Sports Stadium following the Black Stars’ defeat to Palancas Negras at Baba Yara Stadium. The Cape Coast Stadium, with a capacity of 20,000, has undergone renovations before, including a 2019 maintenance project.
The Accra Sports Stadium has also faced maintenance issues in the past, with a previous closure in December 2023. The NSA’s efforts aim to ensure Ghana’s stadiums meet international standards, avoiding potential embarrassments like the Baba Yara Stadium’s prohibition