CAF withdraws approval for Baba Yara Stadium

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revoked its certification of the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, Ghana, citing technical violations, notably the condition of the playing surface.

This decision follows a CAF inspection during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Ghana and Angola on September 5, 2024. The stadium was found to fall short of the required standards for hosting Category 3 international matches.

CAF’s inspection highlighted several deficiencies, including a playing field that was unsuitable for high-level competition. The pitch had suffered severe deterioration, with uneven areas, poor drainage, and insufficient grass cover, rendering it unfit for hosting future matches.

The Baba Yara Stadium, which has a seating capacity of over 40,000, has hosted several high-profile matches in the past, including World Cup qualifiers and AFCON matches.

CAF officials expressed dissatisfaction with the state of the stadium, citing the need for Ghanaian authorities to invest in upgrading the facility to meet international standards.

A letter from CAF noted earlier concerns expressed by the continental body about the state of the playing field.

“It is important to note that, prior to the match, CAF had expressed concerns about the suitability of Baba Yara Sports Stadium for hosting top-tier international fixtures. Persistent issues at this venue, as well as others in Ghana, such as Cape Coast Stadium and Accra Sports Stadium, have also been noted.”

Given the absence of any other CAF-approved Category 3 stadiums in Ghana, CAF has requested the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to select an alternative venue from among those approved by CAF outside Ghana for Matchday 3 and 4 of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 qualifiers.

CAF’s correspondence also urged the GFA to perform a thorough evaluation of all major international stadiums in Ghana to ensure compliance with CAF technical standards. It recommended engaging experienced firms for necessary refurbishments to align with CAF and FIFA requirements.

CAF offered to support Ghana by providing an international pitch consultant experienced in major tournaments like AFCON. This expert will assist with guidance on required improvements, though the GFA will cover the cost of this support.

CAF indicated that once the renovations are completed, the GFA can request an independent inspection to reassess the stadium’s suitability for future international matches.

As a result of this approval withdrawal, Ghana must find alternative venues for upcoming international fixtures, including the AFCON qualifiers. The GFA has committed to collaborating with the government to address the issues and restore the stadium to its previous standard.