Ghana could lose CAF goodwill over Accra Sports Stadium — MP warns

Ghana could lose CAF goodwill over Accra Sports Stadium — MP warns

Berekum West MP Dickson Kyere-Duah has warned that Ghana risks losing the goodwill of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if urgent measures are not taken to address the deteriorating state of the Accra Sports Stadium.

According to the lawmaker, CAF has shown considerable leniency by continuing to permit Ghana to host international matches at the venue despite concerns about its condition.

His remarks came after an inspection of the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday, involving officials from the National Sports Authority (NSA), the Ghana Sports Fund Board and members of Parliament.

The inspection comes amid growing pressure on Ghana's sporting infrastructure, with the country preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and the start of the new Ghana Premier League season.

Mr Kyere-Duah, who participated in the exercise, said the stadium's condition had deteriorated to the point where authorities should seriously consider demolishing and rebuilding the facility.

He cautioned that Ghana could eventually exhaust CAF's patience if decisive action is not taken.

"In our last qualifiers, CAF initially rejected this venue, so we went to Togo and other neighbouring countries. It took diplomatic manoeuvring to eventually get us to play our games here at the Accra Sports Stadium," he said.

"I don't think CAF will be charitable this time around if we leave the facility in this state."

The MP called for an immediate national conversation on the future of the stadium, stressing that postponing a decision could have significant implications for Ghana's ability to host international matches.

"We need to do a lot more about this facility, and we should start having a conversation about the stadium as soon as possible," he added.

The Accra Sports Stadium has undergone several renovation and refurbishment works since its construction, with successive upgrades aimed at improving safety standards and maintaining its eligibility for international competitions.

However, concerns over the venue's current state have intensified in recent months as Ghana prepares to host key domestic and continental football events.

With major CAF and FIFA competitions on the horizon, the future of the Accra Sports Stadium is expected to remain high on the agenda for government officials and sports administrators seeking to ensure the country has facilities that meet international requirements.