Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has voiced his disappointment with the state of the playing surface at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno, where Ghana faces Chad in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Thursday.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Addo described the Astroturf as unsuitable for an international fixture.
“I’m really surprised that they have allowed this pitch for an international match. The pitch is really not good. It’s very, very hard for the players — it’s like playing on concrete,” Addo lamented in an interview with Black Stars media.
“What can we do? We have to take it as it comes, and we are prepared. But to be honest, there are far better Astroturfs nowadays, which are also much healthier for the players.”
Despite his concerns, the Ghana coach insists his team is ready for the challenge.
“We’re excited and looking forward to the match. We know it’s always tough to play away in Africa, and under these circumstances, it will be different because the players are not used to artificial grass,” he said.
“But let’s see — I think we are mentally prepared. The boys look good and sharp on the pitch today, so I’m looking forward to the match tomorrow.”
Ghana currently tops the group with 15 points from six games, while Chad sits bottom without a point. The Black Stars won the reverse fixture 5–0 in Accra.
