Bibiani GoldStars have confirmed plans to use the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi as their home venue for the upcoming CAF Champions League preliminary round matches.
The Ghanaian club, set to represent the nation in Africa’s premier club competition next season, is moving quickly to meet the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) strict requirements for hosting matches.
With Bibiani Park—GoldStars’ traditional ground—failing to meet international standards, club officials have opted for an alternative venue capable of satisfying CAF regulations.
Club CEO Akwasi Adu revealed the decision, highlighting the strategic importance of the Kumasi-based stadium in ensuring a smooth debut campaign on the continental stage.
“For now, our goal is to play the preliminary round matches at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi,” Adu stated. “With the support of the National Sports Authority, led by Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, and in collaboration with Kotoko, the necessary works can be completed in time for us to host our preliminary matches in Kumasi.”
The move underscores Bibiani GoldStars’ ambition and determination to ensure all logistics are in place well before the CAF Champions League campaign kicks off in a few weeks.
Although the team is currently on a break and yet to learn the identity of its first-round opponent, preparations off the pitch are already in full swing.
However, the club’s choice of venue comes with a degree of uncertainty. While the Baba Yara Stadium has long been a cornerstone of Ghanaian football, it has yet to receive CAF approval for the upcoming continental matches. Renovation and inspection processes must be concluded successfully before it can be cleared to host international fixtures.
Should Kumasi’s Baba Yara Stadium fail to meet the necessary standards in time, Bibiani GoldStars have identified the Accra Sports Stadium as a viable fallback option.
The Accra venue is already CAF-certified and would present fewer logistical challenges in terms of compliance.
“If Baba Yara Stadium isn’t ready in time for the group stage, we’ll consider using the Accra Sports Stadium,” Adu confirmed.
Another layer of complexity lies in the potential scheduling conflict with Asante Kotoko, who are also preparing to participate in CAF’s second-tier competition, the Confederation Cup.
The Kumasi-based club is expected to rely on the same stadium for their home matches, which could require coordination between the two sides to ensure both teams can share the facility without disruption.
Adu acknowledged the need for cooperation, suggesting a collaborative spirit between Bibiani GoldStars and Asante Kotoko could be key to navigating the logistical challenges ahead.
“There is a clear synergy of action between both clubs. We are hopeful that through cooperation, we can both benefit from the use of the Baba Yara Stadium,” he added.
Bibiani GoldStars’ CAF Champions League appearance marks a significant milestone in the club’s history. The selection of a suitable home ground reflects not only their competitive aspirations but also their commitment to meeting the standards of continental football.
As the countdown to the preliminary rounds begins, the club continues to make strategic moves to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
