CAF Boss Slams Ghana and Others for “Home Away From Home” Matches

Dr. Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expressed his discontent over the troubling trend of African countries playing their so-called home matches on foreign soil due to inadequate stadium facilities.

Speaking at a high-profile press briefing on September 16, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya, Dr. Motsepe did not hold back in his critique, specifically pointing out Ghana and other unnamed nations for their insufficient football infrastructure.

“Nothing frustrates me more than a country that has to play home matches away from home,” he declared, underscoring his deep dissatisfaction with the ongoing lack of proper facilities.

The chronic issue of subpar stadiums has led many national teams to host their “home” games abroad, denying local fans the chance to support their teams directly and impacting both player morale and the sport’s development.

Dr. Motsepe’s comments have highlighted the urgent need for significant improvements in football infrastructure across the continent.

In his address, Dr. Motsepe urged immediate action from national football associations, governments, and the private sector to enhance and maintain football facilities. He stressed that adequate infrastructure is crucial for the sport’s growth and the development of local talent, and his fervent plea aims to instill a sense of urgency and responsibility among stakeholders.

The briefing has sparked considerable attention, drawing focus to the infrastructural deficiencies in African football.

It will be crucial to see how countries like Ghana respond to this stern call for change, with hopes that such public criticism will drive progress and ensure that teams no longer face the embarrassment of playing their home games away from home.