CAF withdraws approval for Baba Yara Stadium

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has withdrawn its approval for the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, Ghana, due to technical infractions, including an unsuitable playing field.

The decision was made after observations made by CAF during the recent Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying match between Ghana and Angola, which was played at the Baba Yara Stadium on September 5th, 2024. Based on these observations, it was determined that the stadium did not meet the required standards for hosting Category 3 international matches.

The CAF team identified several issues, including a playing field that was deemed unsuitable for competitive matches. The stadium’s playing field had deteriorated significantly, with uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and inadequate grass cover.

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.

The letter from CAF also recommended that the relevant authorities “conduct a comprehensive assessment of all major international stadiums in Ghana to ensure they comply with CAF technical standards.” Additionally, CAF advised that the stadium management engage experienced companies immediately to undertake the necessary refurbishment to meet CAF/FIFA standards.

CAF expressed its commitment to supporting Ghana (through the GFA) in bringing its stadiums up to the required standards for hosting CAF/FIFA senior international matches, offering to assist by providing an international pitch consultant with experience in major international competitions, including AFCON, to offer additional expert guidance on the necessary improvements. The cost of this support would be borne by the GFA.

CAF went on to indicate that once the needed renovation works were completed, it would, at the GFA’s request and expense, conduct an independent inspection to reassess the stadium’s suitability for future matches.

The withdrawal of approval means that Ghana will have to find alternative venues for upcoming international matches, including the AFCON qualifiers. The Ghana Football Association has promised to work with Government to address the issues and restore the stadium to its former status.

The origins of national league football stadiums can be traced back to the early 20th century when clubs began constructing purpose-built venues to accommodate growing fan bases. Iconic stadiums such as Old Trafford in Manchester and Anfield in Liverpool have stood the test of time, serving as bastions of tradition and nostalgia.

These historic grounds evoke memories of legendary matches, iconic players, and fervent supporters who have passed down their passion through generations.