The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted approval for the Accra Sports Stadium to host Ghana’s upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sudan.
This decision comes after CAF withdrew approval for the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, setting off a chain of events that ultimately led to Accra being selected as the new venue.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, this development follows a request made by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) through CAF to inspect alternative national facilities suitable for hosting CAF/FIFA Category 3 matches.
“We are committed to ensuring our sports infrastructure meets international standards. We recognize the importance of these venues for both domestic and international competitions, and we’re taking concrete steps to address any issues that may arise.”
Ministry of Youth and Sports
Following an independent assessment conducted by CAF officials, the Accra Sports Stadium was deemed fit to host international competitions and thus received the necessary approval.
Following CAF’s decision to revoke the status of Baba Yara Stadium as an approved venue, the GFA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, swiftly submitted a request for an inspection of other national facilities that could potentially meet the criteria for hosting CAF and FIFA Category 3 matches. One of these was the Accra Sports Stadium, located in the heart of the nation’s capital.
CAF subsequently conducted an independent assessment of the Accra Sports Stadium. After a thorough review, the stadium met the necessary standards, and CAF granted its approval for the venue to serve as the home ground for Ghana’s clash with Sudan.
This decision brings much-needed relief to Ghanaian football fans and officials, who were eager to ensure that the country had a suitable venue for the high-stakes AFCON qualifier.
Ministry of Sports Welcomes CAF’s Decision
In response to the announcement, the Ministry of Youth and Sports expressed its satisfaction with CAF’s decision.
A press release issued by the Ministry welcomed the approval and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all national sports facilities meet the highest standards required for international competitions.
The Ministry’s statement emphasized its ongoing efforts to improve the country’s sports infrastructure.
“Concurrently, issues raised by CAF with the Baba Yara and Cape Coast stadia, are being addressed. We look forward to another inspection by CAF soon, for restoration of the status of these national stadia as approved venues for CAF and FIFA matches.”
Ministry of Youth and Sports
In a bid to enhance the maintenance and management of sports facilities across the country, the Ministry has directed the National Sports Authority (NSA) to implement a strict maintenance schedule for all national stadia and sports infrastructures.
The Ministry noted that poor upkeep of these facilities had been one of the contributing factors to CAF’s decision to withdraw approval for the Baba Yara Stadium.
Moving forward, the Ministry has stressed the importance of sustained maintenance practices to ensure that Ghana’s sports venues remain in compliance with international standards.
This proactive approach is aimed at preventing similar situations in the future and ensuring that Ghana continues to be a key player in hosting international sporting events.
The Ministry’s statement also acknowledged the crucial role played by various stakeholders, including the GFA, in securing CAF’s approval for the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Ministry extended its gratitude to all parties involved and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure that sports infrastructure development and maintenance remain a national priority.
With CAF’s approval of the Accra Sports Stadium, attention now turns to the match itself. Ghana’s encounter with Sudan is a pivotal fixture in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, as both teams are vying for a spot in the prestigious tournament. The Black Stars will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and secure a victory in front of their supporters.
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