Jerome Opoku could not adapt to training ground in Kumasi – Otto Addo

• Posted on September 9, 2024September 9, 2024
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

The nature of the Bara Yara pitch was a talking point after Ghana’s defeat to Angola on Thursday.

Ghana coach Otto Addo has revealed that the nature of the Baba Yara Stadium contributed to the injury of Black Stars defender Jerome Opoku.

The ?stanbul Ba?ak?ehir defender has withdrawn from the squad following an injury despite not playing in Ghana’s game against Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The four-time champions were stunned at the Baba Yara Stadium ending a 24-year-old dominance at the venue, however, the poor nature of the pitch rather stole the headlines.

Despite admitting that the team could have still done better, Otto acknowledged the toughness the pitch served players like Jerome Opoku.

“We had some few issues and little injuries, but I think they are mostly okay. Except [for] Jerome [Opoku], I think he had serious back problems. I think his body could not adapt to the training ground in Kumasi,” he said.

“It was very difficult for him. He had problems in training and now it was so serious that he could not train. He had to go back now to get special treatment from his club. It’s a pity. He didn’t play but got injured.

Ghana are hoping to bounce back from the defeat as they gear up to face Niger on Monday.