CAF grants Category 2 approval to TnA Stadium for continental matches

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted Category 2 approval to the TnA Stadium in Tarkwa, paving the way for the venue to host selected continental matches after a successful inspection by CAF experts.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced the approval on Thursday, describing it as a major milestone that underscores Ghana's commitment to improving football infrastructure in line with CAF Stadium Regulations.

The approval follows collaborative efforts by the GFA, Medeama Sporting Club, stadium management and other stakeholders to upgrade the facility to meet continental standards.

With its new Category 2 status, the TnA Stadium is eligible to host CAF youth and women's national team qualifying matches, as well as preliminary round fixtures of CAF inter-club competitions.

However, the staging of such matches will remain subject to CAF's confirmation in accordance with its competition regulations.

CAF's approval, communicated to GFA General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo, comes with some conditions aimed at enhancing safety, comfort and the overall matchday experience.

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Among the key requirements is reducing the stadium's approved seating capacity by removing seats with obstructed views caused by roof-supporting structural columns.

CAF has also directed that minor deficiencies identified during the technical inspection be addressed before the venue hosts its next continental fixture.

To ensure full compliance, CAF will appoint a Stadium Infrastructure Inspector to assess the facility during a designated match. The inspection will cover infrastructure functionality, safety and security measures, spectator management, media operations, broadcasting requirements and adherence to CAF's stadium regulations.

CAF noted that a final decision on the stadium's eligibility to host future CAF and FIFA competitions will be taken after reviewing the inspector's report and confirming that all outstanding corrective measures have been implemented.

The GFA welcomed the approval, describing it as another important step in strengthening Ghana's capacity to host international football matches.

The Association also pledged to continue working closely with Medeama SC, the stadium management and other stakeholders to ensure the remaining recommendations are addressed promptly.

Constructed through a private-sector investment by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation at a cost exceeding US$16 million, the reconstructed Tarkwa and Aboso Stadium was officially handed over in August 2024.

PAH/SEA

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