Accra Hearts of Oak are actively exploring new venues for their home matches following the rejection of the University of Ghana Sports Stadium by the Club Licensing Manager. Initially, the club had selected the Legon-based facility as a temporary home due to the closure of the Accra Sports Stadium. However, ahead of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season, the licensing authorities ruled that the venue was unsuitable for top-flight football. As a result, the club has been forced to search for alternatives. Speaking on Sporty FM, the club’s Communications Director, Kwame Opare Addo, confirmed that the management is assessing three potential locations: the Sogakope Stadium, Kpando Stadium, and Tema Stadium. The decision to relocate has become urgent as the league season is already underway, and the Phobians need a reliable home ground to continue their campaign.

The rejection of the Legon Stadium is part of a broader effort by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to enhance safety and infrastructure at match venues across the country. Alongside Hearts of Oak’s stadium setback, the Club Licensing Committee has also ruled against the use of other grounds, including Berekum Chelsea’s Golden City Park, Basake Holy Stars’ AAK Ampanian Stadium in Nzema, and Young Apostles’ Wenchi Sports Stadium. These stadiums were deemed unfit due to security concerns and inadequate facilities. The GFA has been enforcing stricter venue standards, especially after the tragic death of an Asante Kotoko supporter, Nana Pooley, who was fatally stabbed in Nsoatre earlier this month. The incident has heightened awareness about matchday security, prompting authorities to ensure that all football matches take place in safer environments.

Despite these challenges, the Ghana Premier League remains on schedule, with Matchday 20 set to be played at approved venues. Hearts of Oak, one of Ghana’s most successful football clubs, now face the challenge of adapting to a new playing environment while maintaining their competitive edge in the league. The club’s management is expected to finalize their new home ground soon, ensuring that the team and its supporters can settle into a stable match venue for the remainder of the season. While the rejection of the Legon Stadium is a setback, it also presents an opportunity for the club to find a venue that better aligns with the GFA’s evolving safety and quality standards. Fans of the club eagerly await the official announcement of their new home, hoping that the change will not negatively impact the team’s performance in the ongoing campaign.