The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has released its stadium inspection report, detailing the approval status of various match venues across the country ahead of the resumption of the Premier League this weekend.
The report highlights several stadiums that have met the required safety and technical standards, while others have been flagged for safety concerns or technical issues.
The call for Enhanced Match Day Protocols have become increasingly popular conversation following the senseless demise of a Kotoko fan Francis Yaw Frimpong alias Nana Pooley at the Nana Koromansa Park through stabbing during match day 19 on February 2, 2025 in Nsoatre.
The incident has since propelled the Ghana Football Association to suspend GPL match day 20, 21 and 22 until last week where it announced the resumption of the top flight on March 7, 2025 after fruitful engagements will all stakeholders on Enhanced Match Day Safety and Security Protocols.
In line with this the FA’s Club Licensing Board has issued reports on inspection of the various match venues ahead of Match Day 23 of the league season.
The Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, Dun’s Park in Bibiani, Nsenkyire Sports Arena, Kando Sports Stadium, and TNA Park in Tarkwa have all been approved for all Category 3 matches. These stadiums have met the necessary safety and technical requirements, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for players, officials, and spectators.
On the other hand, several stadiums have received conditional approval and will be re-inspected on March 9, 2025. These include the Nii Adjei Krakue II Park, Tuba Astro Turf, Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, and Nana Agyemang Badu Stadium. These stadiums have shown potential but require additional work to meet the GFA’s safety and technical standards.
Unfortunately, two of Ghana’s biggest clubs, Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, have been flagged for safety concerns at their home stadiums. The Baba Yara Sports Stadium, home of Asante Kotoko, and the University of Ghana Stadium, home of Hearts of Oak, have both been cited for safety and security concerns. The clubs must address these issues before their next official matches.
In addition, three stadiums – Berekum Golden City Park, Wenchi Town Park, and AAK II Sports Arena – have been disapproved due to safety and technical reasons. These stadiums will be re-inspected on March 9, 2025, and must make the necessary improvements to meet the GFA’s standards.
The GFA’s stadium inspection report emphasizes the importance of safety and technical standards in Ghanaian football. The association has made it clear that it will not compromise on safety, and clubs that fail to meet the required standards will face the consequences.
