Ghana will be without midfielder Thomas Partey for its opening World Cup match in Toronto against Panama after Canada officials refused his entry. The 32‑year‑old, currently on the books of Spanish side Villarreal, was stopped at the airport when his visa application was rejected. Partey faces seven rape charges and one sexual‑assault count dating from 2020‑22, all to be tried next year.

FIFA confirmed the denial, stressing it has no role in host‑nation immigration decisions and that the Canadian government ultimately decides who may enter. Canadian entry rules state that individuals with criminal convictions may be barred, and although Partey has pleaded not guilty, he remains under investigation. He will miss the kickoff at BMO Field. His absence removes a key defensive midfielder from Ghana’s tactical setup.

Ghana coach Otto Addo must reshuffle his midfield, likely promoting younger players such as Mohammed Kudus or Osman Bukari to fill the void. The loss could blunt Ghana’s chances of a strong start, as Partey’s experience and ball‑winning ability were central to the team’s balance in qualifying. Ghana now faces Panama without its most seasoned midfielder.