The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has lifted the ban on the Alphonse Massamba-Débat Stadium in Brazzaville, allowing Congo to play their opening qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at home against South Sudan on Thursday, September 5.
The decision marks a pivotal moment for Congo, as the stadium had been previously blacklisted due to non-compliance with CAF’s stringent infrastructure and safety standards.
The lifting of the ban comes after extensive renovations and upgrades to the stadium, addressing the issues highlighted by CAF inspectors. The improvements reportedly include enhancements to seating, lighting, and safety protocols, bringing the venue up to the required standards for hosting high-profile matches.
But upgrades since have seen it now passed fit for use, and the side is in action again in front of their home fans after forfeiting a World Cup qualifier in June and then going away to Morocco when they ceded home advantage and were handed a six-goal thumping.