Accra Sports Stadium to Host Niger, Somalia AFCON Qualifiers

The Accra Sports Stadium has been cleared to host home matches for Niger and Somalia during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, giving Ghana another important role in the upcoming continental campaign.

The National Sports Authority (NSA) says the stadium has received clearance from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to stage international fixtures and is currently the only venue in Ghana approved to host FIFA Category A matches.

NSA Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah said Niger and Somalia have both expressed their intention to use the Accra Sports Stadium for their home fixtures during the upcoming international window.

The development is a major boost for the facility after it underwent maintenance following concerns raised by CAF over its suitability for international matches.

With the stadium now cleared, it is expected to welcome several national teams, including the Black Stars, as the battle for places at the 2027 AFCON gathers pace.

Ampofo Ankrah said preparations are already underway for Niger’s match against Lesotho at the venue.

“On the 24th of September, the Black Stars will be in Bouaké. And at the same time, Niger will be here against Lesotho. So we’re preparing for that,” he added.

He also confirmed that both Ghana-Somalia fixtures will be played in Accra, despite Somalia being the designated home side for one of the encounters.

“Both matches [Ghana vs Somalia and Somalia vs Ghana] will be played in Accra, home and away. So that’s what the FA has communicated. So we need to prepare for those matches,” he added.

Ghana will open their AFCON qualifying campaign against Côte d’Ivoire before hosting Gambia in their second fixture.