Thomas Partey will not feature in Ghana's opening World Cup match against Panama after Canadian authorities rejected his visa application. The 32-year-old midfielder remains in Boston with the team while legal proceedings continue following serious criminal charges filed in London.

Partey faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, with his trial now scheduled for June 2027. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his 57 caps for the national team. The former Arsenal player, now at Villarreal, featured in Ghana's recent friendly against Wales but cannot travel to Toronto for Wednesday's Group B fixture.

FIFA confirmed the visa refusal but emphasized that host country immigration decisions fall outside their jurisdiction. This leaves Ghana without one of their most experienced midfielders for the crucial opening match. Coach Carlos Queiroz must adjust his tactical plans without the player who has anchored Ghana's midfield for nearly a decade.

Partey's absence represents a significant blow to Ghana's World Cup aspirations, removing a proven Premier League performer from their lineup during the tournament's most important phase. The Black Stars will need to regroup quickly as they chase their first World Cup victory since 2010.