NSA ‘failed’ by renting out Baba Yara Stadium ahead of Ghana-Angola clash – Sports Ministry

Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed his disappointment with the National Sports Authority (NSA) for “failing in their duties” by renting out the Baba Yara Stadium just weeks before Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

In July, the stadium was rented out for a five-day ‘Kumuyi’ Church program, which left the pitch in poor condition.

The Black Stars lost 1-0 to Angola in their opening qualifier at the venue, with the state of the pitch becoming a major talking point.

Subsequently, CAF revoked the stadium’s license to host international matches which raises the possibility of Ghana hosting their next home match 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 said.

Renting out national stadiums has become the NSA’s primary source of income, but the practice has proven counterproductive, as the facilities are often left in a deplorable state.

Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry released a statement, ‘directing’ the National Sports Authority, to “take steps to resolve issues with the pitch” at the Baba Yara Stadium.