Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has raised concerns over the condition of the Stade Olympique Marechal Idriss Déby Itno pitch, just hours before Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash with Chad.
The newly built 30,000-capacity stadium, located in Mandjafa on the outskirts of N’Djamena, will host today’s fixture at 13:00 GMT. However, Addo insists the playing surface is unfit for international football.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the Ghana coach criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for approving the venue, describing the astro turf as unsafe and unsuitable for players.
“I am surprised that CAF allowed this (astro turf) pitch for an international match. The pitch is really not good. It is very hard. For the players, it is like playing on concrete,” Addo said.
Despite his concerns, Ghana will be aiming to extend their impressive form in the qualifiers. The Black Stars currently top Group I with 15 points, having won five of their six matches.
