No Ghanaian Venue Ready For 2027 U-20 AFCON – NSA Boss

Ghana's National Sports Authority (NSA) Director General, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has revealed that the country does not presently possess a stadium capable of hosting the 2027 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ghana is set to host the tournament for the second time, 28 years after the 1999 edition. This event will also coincide with Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

Speaking on the preparations, Ankrah admitted that substantial upgrades are required across Ghana's sporting infrastructure to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. "As of today, we can't play the (U-20) AFCON in any of our venues, but we can prepare if we put things in place," he stated. Funding is identified as a crucial element in Ghana's readiness for the event, with CAF’s infrastructure requirements dictating the necessary improvements at the various venues.

The NSA chief added that work is already underway to enhance facilities, including playing surfaces, but emphasized that it would necessitate both time and resources. A comprehensive roadmap will be developed once CAF provides the final approval for Ghana to host the tournament. The NSA is confident that the required upgrades can be accomplished within the stipulated timeframe.

"At this moment, we’re in transition to trying to improve our venues, including the grass. So, we need time to prepare for that. And once the final green light comes from CAF, the roadmap would be put in place, and hopefully, we’ll be able to beat certain deadlines to host the tournament," Ankrah concluded.