NSA seeks full CAF approval for Essipong Stadium ahead of Ghana-Somalia fixture

The National Sports Authority (NSA) in Ghana is striving to obtain complete approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for the Essipong Sports Stadium. This would enable the stadium to host international matches, including Ghana's upcoming fixture against Somalia in November. Acting Director-General of the NSA, Prof. Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, explained that the authority is working towards fulfilling the remaining requirements necessary for Essipong to qualify as a full venue for international games.

Securing this certification would provide Ghana with an additional location for national team matches, alleviating pressure on the overburdened Accra Sports Stadium, which requires renovation. The NSA has identified Essipong, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Tamale, and Accra as key venues for potential international fixtures. Currently, only Accra has full certification, while Essipong has been temporarily approved by FIFA and CAF.

The approval came after the stadium hosted the Black Queens match against Mauritius on October 13th, marking its return to international football after a long period of inactivity. The NSA is exploring the possibility of using Essipong to host Somalia's home game against Ghana in November, which would allow Accra Sports Stadium additional time for repairs.

This move would ensure the fixture could still take place at a suitable venue without disrupting Accra's role as the primary international football venue in Ghana. Prof. Osei Sarpong emphasized the authority's broader plan to improve stadium conditions nationwide, with Essipong being one of five key locations under consideration.

The NSA aims to enhance infrastructure at all five venues, with particular attention given to the dressing rooms at Kumasi Sports Stadium, where plans include combining smaller spaces to create larger areas suitable for national team use. The focus remains on obtaining full CAF certification for Essipong, as the achievement would expand Ghana's options for hosting international matches and reduce reliance on a single certified venue.