By Correspondent
Toronto, Canada – Ghana’s preparations for their FIFA World Cup campaignk have suffered a setback after midfielder Thomas Partey was ruled out of the team’s opening match against Panama in Toronto following the rejection of his visa application by Canadian authorities.
FIFA confirmed that decisions regarding entry into host countries remain under the jurisdiction of national governments and immigration agencies, emphasizing that the world football governing body does not intervene in visa or immigration matters involving tournament participants.
Partey, one of Ghana’s most experienced players, had been named in the Black Stars’ World Cup squad despite currently facing multiple charges of serious sexual offences in the United Kingdom. The midfielder has pleaded not guilty to the allegations and is awaiting trial.
The visa refusal means Partey will be unavailable for Ghana’s opening fixture in Canada. However, the decision only affects his entry into Canada, leaving him eligible to participate in Ghana’s subsequent World Cup matches scheduled to take place in the United States, subject to meeting all travel and immigration requirements.
The development has generated significant discussion among football fans and analysts, as Ghana prepares to begin its World Cup journey without one of its key midfield figures. Team officials have yet to announce whether a replacement will be called up or how the squad will adjust tactically in Partey’s absence.
Ghana will now turn its attention to the crucial opening clash against Panama as the Black Stars seek a strong start to their World Cup campaign despite the unexpected setback.
