Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) vice-president, George Afriyie, has expressed sadness over Canada’s refusal to grant Thomas Partey a visa as the Black Stars gears up for their 2026 World Cup opener.
The former Arsenal midfielder is set to miss Ghana’s Group L opening match against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, leaving the Black Stars without one of their senior leaders for a match regarded as vital to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
In an interview, George Afriyie expressed his disappointment Over Partey’s inability to travel to Canada for the opening fixture, describing the situation as âsad’ for both the player and nation.
“This is sad” the experienced football administrator told Accra-based Asempa FM, while assessing the Black Stars chances.
Despite missing the Panama encounter, Partey remains available for Ghana’s remaining Group L fixtures against England in Boston on June 23 and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27, as both matches will be played in the United States.
The Black Stars could also return to Canada if they finish second in Group L and qualify for the Round of 32, meaning the visa issue could become significant again later in the competition should it remain unresolved.
For now, Queiroz must find a way to replace one of his most experienced midfielders as Ghana seek a winning start to their World Cup campaign against Panama.