Partey out of Ghana's World Cup opener after Canada visa denied

Partey blocked from Canada, out of Ghana's World Cup opener

Thomas Partey will miss Ghana's World Cup opener against Panama on Wednesday after Canadian authorities refused his visa application (1). The midfielder is under investigation in the UK for rape and sexual assault, and Canada has the right to deny entry on these grounds (5) (6). Multiple outlets across Europe confirm the decision, Partey simply will not be allowed into the country (2) (3) (4).

This is a brutal blow four days before kickoff. Partey is the spine of the team, the one midfielder who can dominate a game on both sides of the ball. Ghana face Panama in Toronto without their most important player, and there is no appeal route in sight.

Fan reactions

The mood on Reddit is a mix of anger and grim resignation. Many fans point out the double standard, players with similar allegations have traveled freely to past tournaments, while others argue Canada had no choice given the open investigation. The prevailing feeling: this weakens Ghana at the worst possible moment, and the federation had no contingency plan. Read the full thread