Ghana Suffer World Cup Blow As Partey Denied Canada Entry

Ghana have suffered a major setback ahead of their opening match at the 2026 World Cup after midfielder Thomas Partey was reportedly denied entry into Canada.

Naija News reports that the Black Stars are scheduled to face Panama on Wednesday in their first Group game at the BMO Field in Toronto.

However, Partey will not be available for the encounter after being unable to travel to Canada, according to The Athletic.

The development comes as a major blow to Ghana’s preparations, with the former Arsenal midfielder expected to play a key role in the team’s campaign.

Partey’s absence means Ghana will have to make changes to its midfield plans for the match against Panama.

The reason for the entry denial was not officially stated by Ghanaian football authorities, but the Canadian government website states that “if you have committed or been convicted of a crime, you may not be allowed into Canada.”

Partey was recently charged with sexual assault, but he is awaiting trial and has not been convicted.

The former Arsenal star has denied the charges.

His unavailability leaves Ghana without one of their most experienced players as they begin their World Cup campaign in Toronto.

Ghana will be hoping to begin their campaign on a strong note despite Partey’s absence.

The Black Stars are among the African teams expected to make an impact at the tournament, but the latest development has added pressure on the coaching crew ahead of the opener.

The team will now have to rely on other midfield options to fill the gap left by Partey as they seek victory against Panama.