Sekondi Sports Stadium receives CAF approval for Somalia qualifier

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced that the Sekondi Sports Stadium will host the Black Stars' 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Somalia. The match, scheduled for November 12, 2026, marks a significant return of international competitive football to the Western Region. This decision follows temporary clearance granted by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), allowing the venue to be used while ongoing infrastructure improvements continue.

The temporary approval comes after a series of renovations aimed at bringing the facility up to international standards. Recent work at the stadium has included the replacement of the roofing system and significant upgrades to the spectator seating areas. These improvements were deemed sufficient by CAF inspectors to allow the stadium to host its second competitive match since its recent reopening, providing a significant boost to local sports infrastructure.

However, the GFA noted that the approval is conditional, and further work is required to satisfy CAF’s full licensing criteria. Major areas identified for improvement include the expansion of the dressing room facilities to accommodate modern team requirements and the enhancement of media zones to support international broadcasting and journalism standards. Additionally, stadium authorities have been tasked with refining crowd management systems to ensure the safety of all attendees during high-profile fixtures.

The hosting of the Somalia qualifier in Sekondi is expected to draw a large crowd, offering the Black Stars a passionate home atmosphere. While the temporary status allows for this specific fixture, the long-term viability of the Sekondi Sports Stadium as a regular venue for CAF-sanctioned matches depends on the completion of the remaining technical upgrades. The GFA continues to work with the relevant authorities to ensure all outstanding requirements are met to secure permanent certification.