By: Nana Kwame Bediako
In the wake of the Black Stars’ 1-0 defeat to Angola during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, the condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium pitch has come under intense scrutiny. Football enthusiasts and analysts have expressed their dissatisfaction, attributing the poor playing surface to the team’s disappointing performance. Majeed Bawa, the Deputy Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), addressed these concerns in a recent interview on Asempa FM.
Responding to the criticism, Bawa dismissed the notion that the pitch was solely to blame for Ghana’s loss. “Are they suggesting that the Angolans played in the sky? They all played on the same pitch,” he remarked, emphasizing that both teams faced the same conditions. His comments have sparked a heated debate among football fans and commentators, who were hoping for assurances of improvements rather than dismissive remarks.
Football fanatics across Ghana have voiced their discontent with Bawa’s statement, labeling it as insensitive and unconstructive. Many feel that the Deputy Director’s response fails to acknowledge the broader issues surrounding the maintenance and quality of the stadium. Fans argue that rather than downplaying the concerns, the NSA should focus on addressing the pitch’s condition to ensure better performances in future matches.
The backlash against Bawa’s comments reflects a growing frustration among Ghanaian football supporters.
They believe that a high-quality playing surface is crucial for the success of their national team. The call for better maintenance and investment in sports infrastructure is becoming louder, with fans urging authorities to prioritize these aspects to enhance the country’s footballing prospects.
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen how the National Sports Authority will respond to the mounting pressure. The condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium pitch has become a focal point in discussions about the future of Ghanaian football.
This incident highlights the need for continuous improvement in sports facilities to support the national team’s ambitions on the international stage.
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