Ghana’s Black Stars might host their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations home qualifiers in Nigeria after CAF rejected their Kumasi venue due to structural issues.
[dropcap]G[/dropcap]hana’s Black Stars are likely to host their remaining 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) home qualifiers in Nigeria, as reported by multiple sources in Ghana.
This potential shift follows the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) rejection of the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi as a venue for competitive matches.
Also read: AFCON qualifiers: Nigeria face Benin, Libya, Rwanda in Group D
CAF’s inspection team highlighted significant concerns with the Kumasi stadium, including poor drainage, uneven playing surfaces, and inconsistent grass cover.
Other Ghanaian venues, such as the Cape Coast and Accra Sports Stadiums, also failed to meet CAF’s standards, leaving the country without an approved stadium for the qualifiers.
CAF has instructed Ghana to find an alternative venue for their crucial Matchday three and four ties scheduled for October.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, has emerged as a leading candidate due to its proximity and suitability. This stadium, with a capacity of 30,000, is currently the home ground for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
Other potential venues being considered include Côte d’Ivoire’s Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Stade de la Paix, Cameroon’s Japoma Stadium in Douala, and Morocco’s Berkane Municipal Stadium.
The Ghana Football Association is expected to make an official announcement on the venue in the coming days.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
