NSA clarifies decision to deny Hearts vs Nations FC match at Accra Sports Stadium

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has clarified its decision to deny Hearts of Oak’s request to host their Ghana Premier League match against Nations FC at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The NSA explained that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) initially announced the venue without securing a formal agreement. Furthermore, the GFA’s request came too late, preventing the completion of the necessary protocols and preparations to host the match.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Unit on Wednesday, the NSA also noted that while the GFA had made several requests to use the facility, it could not grant approval due to an ongoing "structural audit" of the stadium.

"The NSA received the written request from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) late in the afternoon on Friday, 28th March, 2025. Taking into consideration the preparations and other required protocol arrangements that need to be put in place to ensure that we host a successful game, it was practically impossible for the game to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium," the statement read.

"However, we have engaged all major stakeholders to evaluate the possibility of hosting any football match at the Accra Sports Stadium. In this regard, the NSA will like to confirm that the Accra Hearts of Oak S.C vs. Nations F.C match will not be played at the Accra Sports Stadium."

"Furthermore, all other fixtures including the weekend game between Accra Hearts of Oak S.C and Medeama F.C will only be sanctioned after the structural audit which is ongoing, has been completed with recommendations. The Authority will be in a better position to update the general public and stakeholders on when the Stadium on when the stadium can be used for any football related activity," it added.

Hearts of Oak have been without a permanent home venue this season, playing their matches at the University of Ghana Stadium since September 2024 due to concerns about the condition of the Accra Sports Stadium. 

However, the University of Ghana Stadium is now also closed for renovations in preparation for the CAF African Schools Football Championship, set to take place from April 21 to April 26, 2025.

Wednesday's announcement extends the closure that has been in place since September 2024.

Read the NSA statement below.