By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Angola’s head coach, Pedro Goncalves, has reignited debate over the quality of football pitches in Africa.
Goncalves, who previously voiced concerns about the playing conditions at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, remains outspoken as his team gears up for the return leg in Luanda.
The controversy stems from Angola’s historic 1-0 victory over Ghana, where Goncalves criticised the pitch for not meeting international standards during the first match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying round.
Goncalves’s comments have added an intriguing layer to the upcoming match, as he assures that the Black Stars will experience top-notch playing conditions in Angola. He emphasised the importance of a quality pitch, stating, “We will play good football with wonderful players, a great atmosphere, a good stadium, and a great pitch. We will do our best to beat one of the best teams in Africa.
The Black Stars, who are set to fly to Angola on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, are preparing for a crucial matchday five encounter in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Despite Angola’s early qualification, the stakes remain high for Ghana as they look to secure their spot in the tournament. The promise of a well-maintained pitch in Luanda could play a significant role in the outcome of the match, potentially influencing the strategies and performances of both teams.
As the countdown to the match continues, Ghana and Angola fans watch closely, eager to see how the events in Luanda will unfold. With Angola’s promise of an exceptional playing environment and Ghana’s determination to secure a win, the stage is set for a captivating showdown.
