CAF President, Patrice Motsepe has voiced his frustration over national teams being forced to play outside their home countries due to inadequate facilities.
His remarks come in the wake of CAF’s decision to ban Ghana from hosting home matches at the Baba Yara Stadium, the country’s only approved venue, citing poor pitch conditions.
Motsepe expressed his disappointment with Ghana’s failure to maintain the Baba Yara Stadium to the required standards.
Baba Yara Stadium, Ghana.
With the use of the stadium for non-sporting events, such as church programs, despite the venue’s deteriorating condition.
Following Ghana’s 1-0 loss to Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium, the pitch’s subpar condition was evident, prompting CAF to withdraw approval for the stadium to host the upcoming October AFCON qualifiers.
Concerns were raised about the pitch’s uneven surface, poor drainage, and inadequate grass coverage.
This issue isn’t unique to Ghana. Many African countries struggle with inadequate infrastructure, impacting their ability to host international matches.
For instance, Nigerian teams participating in CAF inter-club competitions, such as Rangers and Enyimba, have been forced to play their home games at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom—the only stadium in Nigeria that currently meets CAF standards.
Godswill Akpabio stadium, Uyo.
Motsepe expressed his concerns during a CAF meeting in Kenya. Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi, he said, “Nothing frustrates me more than a national team or club side having to play home matches outside.”
He emphasized the importance of home-ground advantage, stating, “You can’t grow football if the national teams or club sides aren’t playing in front of their home fans.”
“Our conversations in every country is to make sure there is at least one stadium capable of hosting a CAF category C game,” he said.
As for Ghana, they have been instructed to find an alternative venue for their upcoming AFCON qualifier.
The Ghana FA is currently working to secure a neutral venue, with Nigeria, Togo, or Côte d’Ivoire being the most likely options.
Ghana’s next AFCON qualifier is scheduled against Sudan on October 7, leaving the federation with limited time to act.
