The Angolan national team head coach, Pedro Gonçalves, has voiced his concerns about the condition of the Baba Yara Stadium pitch just days before their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Ghana.
In an interview with Ghanasportspage.com, the Portuguese coach highlighted the importance of a well-maintained pitch for his team to perform at their best.
Gonçalves is worried about the current state of the pitch but acknowledges that efforts are being made to improve it.
Worries About the Pitch
Gonçalves did not hide his concerns about the playing surface in Kumasi, where Angola will face Ghana on September 5th. “Sure, everybody watching the news about the pitch will be scared,” he said.
“The last time we played in Kumasi, unfortunately, we lost the match, but the atmosphere was wonderful. The people in the stands weren’t for us, but everybody was proud—it was exciting. But really, I am scared about the pitch.”
His concerns are understandable. A poor pitch can negatively impact the flow of the game, making it difficult for players to showcase their skills.
With both Angola and Ghana boasting players who are used to playing at the highest levels, the condition of the pitch could play a significant role in the outcome of the match.
Efforts to Improve the Pitch
Despite his concerns, Gonçalves acknowledged the efforts being made to improve the pitch ahead of the match.
“I understand the people are working hard to recover the pitch, and I think it’s good for both teams because we both like to play football,” he said. “The Ghana national team has players playing at the highest level, so we must have a good pitch to play on.”
The Ghanaian authorities are well aware of the importance of this match, not just for the home team but for the entire nation.
With the added pressure of facing Niger on September 9th, the Black Stars will need every advantage they can get, including a well-prepared pitch.
A Crucial Matchup
As the 2025 AFCON qualifiers heat up, the match between Ghana and Angola on September 5th is set to be a crucial one.
Both teams are eager to secure their place in the tournament, and the condition of the Baba Yara Stadium pitch could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome.
Fans from both sides will be hoping for a fair contest on a pitch that allows their teams to perform at their best. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on the efforts to bring the Baba Yara Stadium pitch up to the required standard.
