Ghana's World Cup opener loss as Partey visa appeal denied in 2026

Thomas Partey will miss Ghana's 2026 World Cup opener against Panama after a visa appeal was rejected.

Partey denied entry to Canada Thomas Partey will not feature in Ghana's first 2026 World Cup match against Panama after authorities refused his visa request. Canadian immigration officials blocked Partey's entry due to pending legal issues in the United Kingdom. The Ghanaian government requested temporary entry clearance for Partey to participate in the Toronto fixture on Wednesday. A federal court in Ottawa heard the appeal but upheld the initial visa refusal on Tuesday. ## Reason for visa rejection explained The court decision cited Partey's failure to disclose multiple criminal charges in his visa application. Authorities stated the underlying refusal was valid because Partey had not revealed allegations of sexual violence in the UK. Seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving four different women between 2020 and 2022, are pending against him. His trial is scheduled for next year. ## Canada upholds immigration rules Immigration authorities reiterated that hosting international events does not alter Canada's visa policies. Every traveler to Canada undergoes individual assessment based on available information and applicable laws. The government emphasized consistency in applying entry requirements regardless of the event's significance. The decision followed a thorough review of Partey's case. ## Ghana coach stands by Partey selection Carlos Queiroz, Ghana's head coach, expressed confidence in selecting Partey before the tournament began. When questioned about the visa issue on Tuesday, he remained focused on the team's preparations. Queiroz stated, 'My business is to play with the cards that I have in front of me. We are waiting for a decision. When the decision [arrives], we are ready.' ## Ghana's remaining fixtures in 2026 Ghana's next 2026 World Cup match is against England in Boston on June 23. They face Croatia in Philadelphia four days later on June 27. The team could return to Canada for knockout action if they advance as group runners-up in Group L. ## Partey's Ghana career highlights Thomas Partey has earned over 50 appearances for Ghana since making his debut in June 2016. He previously represented Ghana at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The Villarreal midfielder has been a key figure for the national team in recent years. His exclusion from the Panama match marks a significant setback for Ghana's tournament hopes.