Keta: Football fans across Keta Municipality of the Volta Region have reacted with anger and disbelief after confirmation that vice-captain Thomas Partey would miss the Black Stars' opening FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter against Panama in Toronto.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Canadian government refused Partey's visa application, denying him entry into the country. Many fans believe this will be a significant blow to the Black Stars' preparations ahead of their return to the global showpiece.
In a statement to The Athletic, FIFA confirmed that Partey would be unable to travel from the Black Stars' team base camp in Boston to Canada for their opening games against Panama. FIFA stressed that it bears no responsibility for the immigration processes of host countries, as it remains the prerogative of each host government to determine who is granted entry.
The development has sparked a heated argument among Black Stars supporters in Keta Municipality. Many argue that Partey should not be denied the opportunity to represent his country due to an unresolved legal matter. Mr. Korbla Gborgla, a strong Black Stars fan, stated that Partey has been charged but is yet to stand trial and has not been convicted of any offense by a court of competent jurisdiction, describing the decision as a gross injustice.
He further expressed frustration at FIFA, accusing the world governing body of failing to protect the interests of players and member associations despite clearing Partey for Ghana's 26-man World Cup squad. He argued that FIFA, as tournament organizer, ought to have engaged host governments well in advance to resolve potential immigration complications involving accredited players.
Ms. Abigail Mensah added that the incident has reignited debate about the extent to which a host nation's immigration laws could override FIFA's accreditation and qualification processes. She called on the Black Stars and Ghana Football Association to consider boycotting matches in Canada as a form of protest, while others cautioned that such action could invite FIFA sanctions.
Other football analysts noted the tri-host format of the USA, Canada, and Mexico presents unique logistical and legal challenges, affecting players and officials crossing different jurisdictions with varying immigration laws. As Ghana prepares to kick off against Panama without one of their most influential midfielders, fans have urged the GFA, Government of Ghana, and diplomatic channels to engage Canadian authorities urgently to resolve the issue for subsequent matches.
Meanwhile, if nothing changes between now and the following week, Partey could remain in the USA without participating in the team's first match.