Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, may be forced to relocate their remaining home matches for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers to Nigeria, according to local reports.
This potential move comes after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) withdrew its approval for the use of the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
CAF’s decision to revoke the stadium’s approval was influenced by multiple structural and maintenance issues identified during a recent inspection.
The football governing body cited concerns over the uneven playing surface, inadequate drainage, and poor grass cover as key factors in their decision.
The Baba Yara Stadium is not the only venue facing issues. Similar problems have been reported at other Ghanaian stadiums, including the Cape Coast Stadium and the Accra Sports Stadium, leaving the Black Stars without an officially approved venue for their crucial upcoming qualifiers.
In response, CAF has instructed Ghana to secure an alternative venue for their Matchday 3 and 4 fixtures, scheduled for October.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, has emerged as a leading candidate for hosting these games. Other potential venues under consideration include Côte d’Ivoire’s Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny and Stade de la Paix, Cameroon’s Japoma Stadium in Douala, and Morocco’s Berkane Municipal Stadium.
The Ghana Football Association is expected to make a final decision and notify CAF in the coming days.
