Ghana dealt major World Cup blow as Partey misses opener

Ghana have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after midfielder Thomas Partey was unable to secure a visa to enter Canada, according to FIFA.

In a statement released through a FIFA spokesperson, football's world governing body said the 32-year-old would not be permitted to travel from the Black Stars' training base in the United States to Toronto for Ghana's Group L fixture against Panama on 17 June.

"FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana's team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government," the statement said.

FIFA stressed that visa decisions fall exclusively within the jurisdiction of host governments and are not subject to intervention by the organisation.

"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," it added.

Partey, who plays for Spanish club Villarreal, was included in Ghana's 26-man squad for the tournament and had been expected to play a key role in the team's World Cup campaign.

The midfielder has been a central figure for the Black Stars since making his international debut in 2016, earning more than 50 caps and establishing himself as one of the team's most experienced players.

The development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving the player in the United Kingdom. Partey was charged in July 2025 with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Ghana recently arrived in the United States ahead of the tournament and are scheduled to travel to Canada for their opening fixture before returning to the US for their remaining group matches against England and Croatia.

It remains unclear whether Partey will be available for any subsequent matches later in the competition should Ghana progress beyond the opening stages.

The absence of one of Ghana's most influential players is likely to present a major challenge for head coach Carlos Queiroz as the Black Stars prepare to begin their World Cup campaign.