CAF Inspection Raises Major Concerns Over Ghana’s 2027 U-20 AFCON Hosting Bid
Ghana’s plan to host the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations has faced major challenges after a Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspection identified several problems with the proposed stadiums and training facilities.
A 26-page technical report, based on an inspection carried out between January 12 and 16, 2026, highlighted concerns about stadium conditions, playing pitches, security, spectator safety, drainage systems and media facilities.
The Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi was the only proposed venue that failed to meet CAF Category 4 requirements.
The 40,528-capacity stadium needs major renovation, including improvements to the playing surface, irrigation, drainage, security systems, dressing rooms and media facilities.
The Accra Sports Stadium was also found to require significant improvements. CAF raised concerns about ageing metal structures, poor floodlighting and inadequate dressing room facilities.
Several training grounds were also flagged for poor pitch conditions, weak perimeter security and insufficient floodlighting.
Despite these challenges, CAF believes Ghana can still meet the requirements to host the tournament if the necessary improvements are completed within the given timelines.
The inspection team recommended that the University of Ghana Sports Stadium and Nduom Sports Complex be given priority for early approval.
It also called for major renovation work at the Accra Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Sports Stadium, while the Cape Coast Sports Stadium was listed as a venue that could be approved if certain conditions are met.
CAF stressed that final approval would depend on the availability of funding, completion of the required projects and successful follow-up inspections.
The report did not announce the rejection of Ghana’s hosting bid but warned that delays in addressing the identified problems could affect preparations and the successful organisation of the competition.
