Ahead of the Black Stars’ 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Angola, Esme Mends, Club Licensing Manager for the Ghana Football Association, has raised concerns about the condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
With just 16 days remaining before the September 5 match, Mends has described the stadium as “not ready to host a competitive game.”
The Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Ghana’s sole CAF-approved venue, is in poor condition. Issues such as faded grass affect its readiness.
Mends expressed his apprehension regarding the stadium’s suitability for significant events.
“Our main concern was the playing field, which wasn’t good. If any significant events were scheduled, the stadium would not be appropriate,” Mends told Luv FM.
He acknowledged the National Sports Authority’s (NSA) efforts to improve the pitch, noting that the ongoing work is promising.
“The NSA is working nonstop on the pitch, and we were impressed with the work that the employees were putting in. I do not doubt they will have the Baba Yara pitch ready for the Angola match,” he added.
The deterioration of the stadium’s turf has been partly attributed to a five-day church program held in Kumasi in July 2024, which impacted the field’s condition.