- Black Stars coach Otto Addo has voiced strong concerns about the condition of the pitch at Chad’s national stadium ahead of Ghana’s World Cup qualifier on September 4, 2025.
- Speaking to the GFA media team, Addo described the surface at Stade Olympique Marechal Idriss Deby Itno as “like playing on concrete” and questioned why CAF approved it for a Category C fixture.
- Despite the poor conditions, he urged his players to adapt and remain focused on securing victory.
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has raised alarm over the playing surface at Chad’s national stadium, just hours before Ghana’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Ndjamena.
The match, set for Thursday, September 4, will take place at the Stade Olympique Marechal Idriss Deby Itno — a venue Addo says falls short of international standards. After inspecting the pitch during Ghana’s final training session, the coach described the surface as extremely hard and unsafe, likening it to concrete.
He questioned the Confederation of African Football’s decision to approve the stadium for a Category C fixture, suggesting that the pitch could pose risks to player safety and affect the quality of play.
Despite his frustration, Addo emphasized that the team must adapt to the conditions and stay focused on the goal: securing three points to strengthen Ghana’s position in Group I. The Black Stars currently lead the group and are pushing for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. GMT.
“I’m surprised CAF allowed this pitch. For the players, it’s like playing on concrete.”
Black Stars 🇬🇭 head coach Otto Addo raises concerns about the astroturf they will face Chad 🇹🇩 on tomorrow.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/zxEMYACPBi
— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) September 3, 2025
