Sports minister slams NSA for renting Baba Yara Stadium to church before Angola match

Sports minister Mustapha Ussif has called out the National Sports Authority (NSA) for its failure in handling the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

Ussif criticized the NSA for neglecting its duties, leading to the deterioration of the stadium's condition.

In July, the stadium hosted a five-day 'Kumuyi' Church event, which severely damaged the pitch, raising concerns about its readiness for international matches.

The Black Stars faced Angola at the stadium and suffered a 1-0 defeat in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Following the match, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoked the stadium’s license to host international games, potentially forcing Ghana to play future home matches abroad.

"Of course, [the NSA failed in its duty] by its singular decision to rent the Kumasi Stadium for that program just before the Angola match," Ussif told the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports on Tuesday.

In response, the Sports Ministry has issued a directive to the NSA, urging them to swiftly address the pitch issues at the Baba Yara Stadium.