The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Club Licensing Committee has declared seven stadiums, including Baba Yara Sports Stadium and Legon Sports Stadium, unfit to host Ghana Premier League matches. This decision has put top clubs Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak in a difficult position ahead of the league’s resumption on March 7, 2025.
Club sources reveal that the rejection stems from the absence of a designated safe zone, a critical requirement under the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025. Without this feature, the stadiums fail to meet the necessary safety and security standards for hosting competitive matches.
Kotoko’s Dilemma: Baba Yara or Abrankese?
With time running out, Asante Kotoko must now decide between addressing the safety concerns at Baba Yara Stadium or securing an alternative home venue. The Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in Abrankese has emerged as a potential option, but the club faces a race against time to finalize arrangements before the league restarts.
Hearts of Oak Exploring Alternatives:
Hearts of Oak also find themselves in a tough spot after the rejection of Legon Sports Stadium. Club spokesperson Kwame Opare Addo confirmed the setback, stating:
Last Thursday, we received communication from the Club Licensing Committee that the UG Stadium is not fit to host Ghana Premier League matches.
He further revealed that the club is considering Sogakope, Kpando, and Tema as alternative venues but remains hopeful that the Legon Stadium can be made ready in time for the season’s resumption.
With just days left before the league restarts, both Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak must act swiftly to secure suitable home venues or risk starting the season on uncertain footing.