Veteran Ghanaian coach Abdul Karim Zito has voiced concerns that Black Stars players are holding back during national team matches due to the poor quality of pitches in the country.
His comments follow Ghana's recent home defeat to Angola, where the condition of the Baba Yara Stadium pitch became a major point of contention.
After the loss, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoked approval for Baba Yara Stadium to host international matches, citing "persistent issues" with the pitch.
As a result, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is now scrambling to secure an alternative venue for the Black Stars’ upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers, with the possibility of playing abroad looming.
In an interview with Joy Sports, Zito explained the challenges players face on poor pitches. "Our players are used to quality pitches outside, so they feel uncomfortable when they come home to play, as they are afraid of getting injured," he said. "If you look at the goal we conceded against Angola, the intention from Abdul Mumin was right, but the pitch caused him to miskick."
With Ghana set to face Sudan in October, the GFA is racing against time to find a suitable venue that meets international standards.
The uncertainty around the home fixture has added pressure on the Black Stars, who are already under scrutiny for their recent performances.
