Ghana have been dealt a major setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup opener against Panama, with midfielder Thomas Partey unavailable for the match after being refused entry into Canada
The decision came after Canadian authorities reportedly denied the player’s visa application, preventing him from travelling from Ghana’s training camp in Boston to Toronto, where the opening fixture will be played.
FIFA confirmed that immigration and visa decisions remain the responsibility of host nations and are outside the organisation’s control.
“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country,” the governing body stated.
Partey is currently facing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom over multiple rape and sexual assault charges, all of which he has denied.
Despite the controversy surrounding the player, Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has continued to back his inclusion in the national team, insisting that he should not be judged before the legal process is concluded.
The midfielder’s absence will be a significant blow for Ghana, who are set to begin their World Cup campaign against Panama before facing England and Croatia in their remaining group-stage matches.
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