AFCON 2025Q: Nigeria could come to Ghana's rescue after CAF ban

AFCON 2025Q: Nigeria could come to Ghana's rescue after CAF ban

Hassan Abdulsalam 18:45 - 11.09.2024

Nigeria could be an option for the Black Stars of Ghana after CAF placed a ban on the Baba Yara Stadium.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has withdrawn approval for Ghana's Baba Yara Stadium to host AFCON qualifiers due to subpar conditions.

Ghana's Baba Yara Stadium
Ghana's Baba Yara Stadium

A recent CAF inspection team identified several issues with the playing field, including uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and inadequate grass cover.

These persistent problems, along with similar issues at other Ghanaian stadiums like Cape Coast Stadium and Accra Sports Stadium, have led CAF to mandate that Ghana select an alternative venue outside the country for Matchday 3 and 4 of the AFCON qualifiers in October.

Ghana's Fans destroy Baba Yara Stadium after AFCON 2025 qualifier loss to Angola

The fans were not happy with the late goal and performance of the team and made their feelings known by destroying the Baba Yara Stadium.

See how Ghanaian fans reacted after losing 1-0 to Angola in a 2025 AFCON qualifier.
See how Ghanaian fans reacted after losing 1-0 to Angola in a 2025 AFCON qualifier.

A late goal by Milson in the 92nd minute handed the Black Stars a defeat at the stadium for the first time since 2000.

Some fans were seen damaging items inside the stadium in videos that have become popular on social media, while others are seen throwing water bottles onto the field.

Ghana is set to play in Nigeria

Due to its proximity, the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, is a leading alternative venue.

Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo
Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo

The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium has been the home of the Super Eagles for some games now and it has also hosted other Nigerian clubs in inter-club competitions.

NPFL champions Rangers faced Comoros' Zilmadjou in the first round of the CAF Champions League preliminary fixtures at the stadium.

Other possibilities include the Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny and the Stade de la Paix in Côte d'Ivoire, as well as the Japoma Stadium in Cameroon and the Berkane Municipal Stadium in Morocco.

Ghana is expected to announce its final decision to CAF in the coming days.

Tags: