2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Sports Minister, NSA DG inspect Accra Sports Stadium ahead of Ghana v Gambia clash

Ghana’s Sports Minister Kofi Adams and National Sports Authority (NSA) Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah have inspected the Accra Sports Stadium as preparations continue for the Black Stars’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The inspection was carried out on Friday, 11 September, as officials assessed whether the country’s main international venue is ready to host upcoming fixtures.

The visit came ahead of Nations FC’s 1-1 draw with FC Diarra in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round at the stadium on Sunday.

The Accra Sports Stadium is due to stage Ghana’s second Group C qualifier against The Gambia on 29 September, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT.

The venue has faced growing scrutiny in recent months over its condition.

Berekum West MP Dickson Kyere-Duah recently described the stadium as a “death trap” after inspecting the facility, adding to concerns over its suitability for major international matches.

Friday’s assessment forms part of efforts by the Sports Ministry, the NSA and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to ensure the stadium meets Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements.

Ghana currently has no stadium that fully satisfies both CAF and FIFA standards, placing increased pressure on authorities to upgrade existing facilities before the country’s next home international.

GFA Deputy General Secretary Alex Asante also attended the inspection.

Meanwhile, Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to return to Ghana this week for his official reintroduction and to name his squad for the opening two qualifiers.

Ghana begin their Group C campaign away to Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké on 24 September before hosting The Gambia three days later as they begin their bid to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.