Black Stars players fear injuries due to poor nature of pitches in Ghana – Karim Zito

Ghana’s stadium ban by the Confederation of African Football could be a blessing in disguise for the Black Stars, according to Dreams FC Head Coach, Abdul Karim Zito.

Ghana look set to play their matchday 3 and 4 fixtures in the 2025 AFCON Qualifying series away from home, after CAF withdrew approval for the Baba Yara Stadium due to “persistent issues” with the venue.

The Ghana FA has been instructed by the continent’s governing body, to choose an alternative venue, outside Ghana, within the next few days for next month’s fixtures.

According to Coach Zito, who doubles as the national U19 Coach, the current pitches in Ghana are proving to be counter productive for the Black Stars, and a more quality turf could serve the team better.

“When you go into the coaching aspect and consider the factors affecting performance, the field plays a part.

“Our players are used to quality pitches outside, so they feel uncomfortable when they come home to play, as they are afraid of getting injured. If you look at the goal we conceded against Angola, the intention was from Abdul Mumin was right, but the pitch caused him to miskick,” he said.

“For these reasons, I’m okay with the CAF ban, because it will force us to do the right thing.

Ghana face Sudan in a double header during the October international window, and could likely play the home leg in Nigeria, with the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, one of the options available to the Ghana FA.