The Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, set to host a highly anticipated clash between Dreams FC and Zamalek for a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup final, has raised concerns after it was rented out for recreational activities hours before the match.
According to 3Sports’ Kelvin Owusu Ansah, the Assemblies of God Church secured the venue for their children’s service program. However, despite an agreement to use only the car park and heroes park, children were found wandering into various parts of the stadium, including the stands.
Videos circulating online depict portions of the stadium filled with dirt, prompting concern from officials. Both the CAF security officer and match commissioner have taken notice of the situation, adding further scrutiny to the stadium’s condition.
The Baba Yara Stadium has been used for a kids day out just hours before the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final game between Dreams Fc and Zamalek#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/4cV2cyJ0Dq
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) April 27, 2024
The decision to rent out the stadium has sparked criticism from Ameenu Shardow, the General Manager of Dreams FC, who believes their preparations for the crucial match are being undermined by the National Sports Authority (NSA), responsible for stadium management in the country.
As both teams arrived at the match venue for mandatory press conferences and training sessions, the current state of the stadium is deemed unsuitable for a game of such magnitude. Dreams FC and Zamalek are vying for a spot in the final of the CAF Confederation Cup, with the first leg having ended in a goalless draw.
Dreams FC, in particular, is eyeing a historic achievement, aiming to become the first Ghanaian club to reach the final of a major CAF club competition in nearly two decades.