Black Stars coach Otto Addo has expressed concern about the recent ban on the Baba Yara Stadium, which was the only approved venue for hosting international matches.
Ghana was granted temporary approval by CAF to use the Baba Yara Stadium for their recent home game against Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Despite this, the poor condition of the pitch and Ghana’s loss which ended their 24-year dominance shifted the focus away from the disappointing result.
Following the game, the National Sports Authority closed the stadium for a month to prepare it for Ghana’s next home match against Sudan in October.
However, CAF has since banned the venue, citing its substandard quality and failure to meet required standards.
This puts the Ghana Football Association under pressure to find an alternative venue for upcoming Black Stars matches, potentially in a neighboring country.
Reacting to the issue during the CAF Coaches Symposium in Ivory Coast, Otto Addo expressed disappointment, stating, “First of all, I think if it comes like this, and this is how it looks like, then it’s really a pity.”
He acknowledged the desire to play in front of a home crowd but emphasized the need to adapt to the situation.
Addo remained focused on achieving results, noting that the venue issue is beyond their control.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has directed the GFA to seek CAF approval for the Accra Sports Stadium and the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon as alternative venues.
