The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly rejected the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi as the venue for Asante Kotoko’s upcoming CAF Champions League clash against Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club. The decision means the Porcupine Warriors will now have to host the crucial fixture at the Accra Sports Stadium.
According to sources, CAF’s inspection team raised several concerns about the current state of the Baba Yara Stadium, citing issues related to pitch quality, floodlight standards, dressing room facilities, and inadequate media and VIP sections.
Despite recent renovations by the National Sports Authority (NSA), the stadium reportedly failed to meet the continental body’s requirements for hosting top-tier international matches.
In a statement, CAF emphasized that its stadium requirements are aimed at ensuring player safety, broadcast quality, and fan experience across all competitions. The decision, though disappointing for Kumasi fans, aligns with CAF’s broader efforts to standardize football infrastructure across Africa.
The development comes as a major setback for Asante Kotoko, who had hoped to take advantage of the passionate Kumasi crowd to secure a home victory against the North African powerhouse.
The shift to Accra means Kotoko will lose the intimidating atmosphere of their traditional home ground, something that has always given them an edge in continental fixtures.
Club officials have expressed disappointment with the decision but have assured supporters that the team remains focused on delivering a strong performance regardless of the venue. “We understand the frustration of our fans in Kumasi, but we must comply with CAF’s directive. Our focus now is to prepare well and make Ghana proud,” a club statement read.
Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to express mixed reactions. While some criticized authorities for not maintaining the Baba Yara Stadium to CAF standards, others called for calm and urged the team to make the best out of the situation in Accra.
Asante Kotoko are scheduled to face Wydad AC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round later this month, with the first leg to be played in Accra before traveling to Casablanca for the return fixture