Black Stars Defender Baba Rahman Decries State of Ghana Football Pitches
Baba Rahman Slams Poor Football Pitches in Ghana, Calls It a National Embarrassment
Black Stars defender Baba Rahman has strongly criticised the poor state of football pitches in Ghana, describing the situation as a national disgrace that demands urgent attention.
Speaking in an interview with Joy Sports, the PAOK left-back did not hold back his frustration, especially after widespread backlash over the condition of the University of Ghana Sports Stadium pitch during the 2024/25 FA Cup final. Fans and pundits alike expressed disappointment, reigniting debate around Ghana’s football infrastructure.
“This is a serious issue that needs urgent attention,” Rahman said. “I’m pleading with those in charge — let’s at least ensure the national team has a proper pitch to play on. Sometimes it’s really embarrassing.”
The poor condition of pitches, he said, not only affects the performance of players but also damages the country’s reputation on the international stage.
“You go back to your club after international duty, and your teammates mock the country because of the pitches we play on. It’s honestly a national disgrace,” he added.
Rahman acknowledged that Ghana’s tropical climate poses challenges for pitch maintenance, but insisted that it should not be used as an excuse.
“I understand the weather makes pitch maintenance difficult, but we still need to make the effort. Improving our pitches will benefit all our national teams — from the juniors to the women’s sides.”
His comments echo long-standing concerns raised by football stakeholders and even the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which has previously flagged Ghana’s substandard playing fields.
With growing calls for reform and investment in sports infrastructure, Rahman’s remarks add pressure on authorities to act swiftly to improve pitch quality across the country — especially for national-level fixtures.
