In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, Ghanaians are grappling with the recent directive requiring the national football team, the Black Stars, to play their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and other international qualifying matches in neighboring countries like Togo or Ivory Coast. This decision has not only disappointed fans but also ignited a fierce debate about the state of sports management in Ghana.
Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has been vocal about his disapproval, calling the situation a “national embarrassment.” In a recent statement, Appiah emphasized the importance of hosting qualifiers on home soil, stating, “Playing a qualifier outside Ghana, except in a tournament, is a national embarrassment. We must prioritize hosting our own games and protect our football pride.”
The root of this issue lies in the condition of Ghana’s premier stadium, Baba Yara Stadium, which has been deemed unfit for international matches by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The poor state of the pitch and other facilities has led to the suspension of its license, forcing the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to consider alternative venues.
This decision has not only affected the morale of the players but also the pride of the nation. Football is more than just a sport in Ghana; it is a unifying force that brings people together, transcending social , political affiliations and economic barriers. The prospect of playing crucial matches away from home feels like a betrayal to many fans who have supported the team through thick and thin.
The Ministry of Sports has come under heavy criticism for allowing the situation to deteriorate to this level. Critics argue that the ministry’s negligence and lack of proactive measures have led to this disgraceful scenario. They believe that immediate steps must be taken to restore the nation’s football pride and ensure that such an embarrassment does not occur again.
Steps to Restore National Pride
- Immediate Renovation of Baba Yara Stadium: The government must prioritize the renovation of the stadium to meet international standards. This includes upgrading the pitch, seating, and other facilities to ensure it is fit for hosting international matches.
- Investment in Sports Infrastructure: Beyond Baba Yara Stadium, there should be a comprehensive plan to develop and maintain sports infrastructure across the country. This will not only benefit football but also other sports.
- Transparent Management: The Ministry of Sports and the GFA need to operate with greater transparency and accountability. Regular updates on the progress of renovations and other initiatives should be communicated to the public.
- Engagement with Stakeholders: Involve former players, coaches, and other stakeholders in decision-making processes. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable guidance in managing the sport effectively.
- Youth Development Programs: Invest in grassroots football and youth development programs to nurture future talents. This will ensure a steady pipeline of skilled players who can represent the nation with pride.
The anger and disappointment felt by Ghanaians are understandable. However, this situation also presents an opportunity for the country to reassess and improve its sports management. By taking decisive actions, Ghana can restore its football pride and ensure that the Black Stars shine brightly on the international stage once again.
Source: Sankofaonline.com
Onyansani. Mpaninfoɔ agyemifoɔ , listen to what sankofaonline.com is saying if you want to solve the problem. Nipa tuntum, what ever brings money to boost your economy is always disregarded. What is wrong with our leaders.
I think there should be a newly establish clan in Ghana called AGYIMIFOƆ CLAN . This clan should be there for all our so called corruptible leaders. Instead of HALL OF FAME we should establish HALL OF GYIMIE for them so that thier behaviors will be used as study cases in school.