Why University of Ghana Stadium cannot host Black Stars games

The Ministry of Youth and Sports' suggestion to the Ghana Football Association to submit the University of Ghana Stadium for consideration to host Black Stars' home games has caused an uproar on social media.

Many chastised the ministry for not being informed about CAF's requirement, arguing that the UG Stadium does not meet the standard of hosting a CAF category 3 match.

The ministry's suggestion is in an effort to find a solution for the Black Stars after CAF withdrew its approval of Baba Yara Sports Stadium to host Ghana's remaining home games in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

The UG Stadium underwent renovations for the 13th African Games hosted in Ghana and was the main centre for the games, hosting the athletic events as well as some football games.

It has hosted two domestic cup final games - both men and women. It hosted the Men's MTN FA Cup final and the Women's Malta Guinness final.

However, the renovations done at the venue could only lift it to a level to host CAF Category 2 games.

Here are three reasons why the UG Stadium does not meet the required standard to host a CAF Category 3 match:

Capacity

The capacity of a stadium is a primary requirement. The UG Satdium cannot host a CAF category 3 match because of its capacity.

The requirement, according to CAF's new reviews published in 2022, is 30,000 seater capacity. Meanwhile, the UG Stadium is an 11,000-seater-capacity venue.

The capacity automatically compromises the required size of the VIP and the VVIP, making the venue fall short.

Dressing Room

CAF dressing room requirement for a category 3 match indicates that the dressing room should have 25 seats and lockers.

The UG Stadium has a small-sized dressing room with 21 seats and lockers.

Media Area

According to CAF, the media area for category 3 games should be covered and have big desks that could accommodate a laptop and a notepad.

In contrast, the media area at the UG Stadium is exposed and not spacious either as the individual desks provided are in small size and cannot accommodate a laptop and a notepad.

Watch a tour video of the University of Ghana Stadium



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