Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz kept midfielder Thomas Partey in the provisional 28‑man World Cup squad for the upcoming Wales friendly. The 32‑year‑old, now at Villarreal, faces seven rape and one sexual‑assault charges in London, with a trial slated for November. Queiroz argued the presumption of innocence must guide selection.

Queiroz, 73, said media and social‑media backlash condemns players before courts decide. He stressed his decision reflects Ghana’s preparation goals, not a legal endorsement. The match marks Wales' 150th football anniversary and its first encounter with an African side on home soil, adding symbolic weight.

Ghana’s roster also features Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo, Coventry’s Brandon Thomas‑Asante and Leicester’s Jordan Ayew, all vying for spots in Group L with England, Panama and Croatia. Queiroz, former Sir Alex Ferguson assistant, emphasized that solid performances in Cardiff will boost confidence ahead of the World Cup opener in Boston on June 23.

The Welsh fixture offers a chance for Partey to play in the United Kingdom for the first time since his September court appearance. Queiroz concluded that a strong showing against the Dragons will signal Ghana’s readiness for the tournament, reinforcing the team’s tactical plans.