Ghana have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with midfielder Thomas Partey set to miss the clash against Panama after reportedly being denied entry into Canada.
According to The Athletic, the 32-year-old Villarreal midfielder will not be available for the Black Stars’ Group L opener at Toronto’s BMO Field on June 17.
Partey was included in Ghana’s World Cup squad and travelled to Washington D.C. with the rest of the team on June 4 as preparations intensified for the tournament. However, sources familiar with the situation have reportedly confirmed that the former Arsenal star is unable to enter Canada and will therefore play no part in the match against Panama.
The midfielder is currently facing multiple rape and sexual assault charges in the United Kingdom. In July 2025, London’s Metropolitan Police charged Partey with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty to the charges in September 2025.
In February 2026, he was further charged with two additional counts of rape and again entered a not guilty plea in April. Partey has consistently denied all allegations and is awaiting trial.
Canadian immigration regulations state that individuals who have committed or been convicted of certain criminal offences may be denied entry into the country. While Partey has been charged, he has not been convicted of any offence.
The Ghana Football Association is yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.
Partey’s absence would be a major blow for Ghana as coach Carlos Queiroz prepares his side for a crucial opening fixture against Panama. The experienced midfielder has been one of the team’s key figures in recent years and was expected to play an important role in Ghana’s quest to progress from a challenging group that also includes England and Croatia.
