Sports
2026 World Cup Qualifiers: NSA pledges to upgrade pitch ahead Mali clash in September
The Deputy Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Gideon Hammond, has assured that efforts are underway to improve the Accra Sports Stadium ahead of the Black Stars’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana’s senior national team is set to face Mali at the stadium in their Matchday 8 fixture, following an away game against Chad in Matchday 7. The Black Stars last played at the venue in March, where they secured an emphatic 5-0 win over Chad.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Hammond revealed that the NSA is focused on ensuring the stadium meets international standards for the crucial tie and future matches.
“You know, in the previous match, we decided to cut off a portion, but the fans did not even listen to us on that one; they occupied the place,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of proper pitch maintenance, echoing sentiments recently expressed by Black Stars head coach Otto Addo.
“In preparing for the Chad game, one key thing that coach Otto Addo mentioned was that we need to maintain the floodlights on.
“We need to keep the pitch in good shape. And he was mentioning it because he realised that the quality of the pitch also contributes to the performance of the team,” he added.
The NSA has come under criticism in recent times for the deteriorating conditions of national sporting facilities, particularly its playing surfaces.
Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet
