By Angu Lesley
Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon
FIFA has confirmed that Ghana vice-captain Thomas Partey will miss the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada after his visa application to enter the country was refused by Canadian authorities.
Partey, who is part of Ghana’s official tournament squad, will be unable to travel from the team’s base in the United States to Toronto, where Ghana face Panama on 17 June.
According to FIFA, immigration decisions remain entirely under the jurisdiction of host nations, with the governing body stating it has no role in visa approvals or entry clearance for players and officials.
The development is a major setback for Ghana, as Partey is one of the team’s most experienced midfielders and serves as vice-captain. However, because he remains part of the squad and has not been ruled out through injury or suspension, Ghana are not expected to name a direct replacement for his role. Instead, the coaching staff will likely adjust the starting lineup and leadership responsibilities for the opening match.
The situation highlights the strict entry requirements for the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, where visa approval is a separate process from FIFA participation.
Ghana will only have him for the rest of the fixtures provided a new case is not made against him
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