According to multiple reports, the Accra Sports Stadium has been cleared by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host international matches, paving the way for the Black Stars to return to the iconic venue for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The approval follows months of renovation and rehabilitation work undertaken by the National Sports Authority (NSA) as part of efforts to bring the facility up to the required standards for international football.
The stadium had previously lost its CAF approval, forcing Ghana to explore alternative venues for home fixtures. The latest certification therefore comes as a major boost for the Black Stars, who can now return to playing competitive matches in Accra.
Ghana are scheduled to host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 27 September in their opening home qualifier, three days after travelling to face Côte d’Ivoire away from home.
The return to the venue will be particularly significant for the Black Stars, who have traditionally enjoyed strong support from home fans in Accra.
However, the condition of the stadium has been a subject of concern in recent years, with questions raised over its ability to meet international standards. Earlier this month, Berekum West MP Dickson Kyere-Duah described the facility as a “death trap”, highlighting concerns about Ghana’s wider sporting infrastructure despite the latest refurbishment.
CAF’s approval could also provide a new opportunity for other national teams struggling to secure approved venues for their home matches.
Niger are set to use the Accra Sports Stadium for their 2027 AFCON qualifiers after receiving approval to host their home games in Ghana. The Mena have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Gabon and Lesotho.
Somalia has also approached the NSA for permission to stage its home fixtures at the Accra Sports Stadium. The Ocean Stars are in Group C alongside Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Gabon, potentially opening the door for several qualifying matches involving teams from Ghana’s group to be played in Accra.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
The top two teams from each qualifying group will secure qualification for the tournament.
For Ghana, the return of the Accra Sports Stadium to CAF’s approved list provides the Black Stars with an important home base as they begin their campaign to secure a place at the continental championship.
