Partey's visa fight goes to court as Ghana face Panama Wednesday

Partey's visa fight heads to court

Ghana have gone to court over Thomas Partey's visa denial. Canada refused the midfielder entry, and without him the World Cup opener against Panama hangs in the balance (1) (2). The case could determine whether your team's most experienced player is available at all this tournament.

Partey has been accused of rape, though no charges have been filed. The Ghanaian federation is pushing hard to get him into the country for the Group L opener (2).

Panama tomorrow night

Your team opens its World Cup 2026 campaign against Panama on Wednesday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara (3) (4). Group L is wide open. Ghana need a result, and the lineup decisions will be shaped by whatever happens in that Vancouver courtroom first.

Fan reactions

The contrast with Japan's Kaishu Sano, also accused of sexual assault but present at the tournament, is not lost on fans. On r/soccer, the discussion centred on why two similar cases have produced such different outcomes, and whether football's approach is consistent or just convenient. Read the full thread here.