Ghana's Partey Set to Face England After US Visa Granted, Canada Denied Entry

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has confirmed he is ready to play against England in the 2026 World Cup in Boston on Wednesday, despite being denied a Canadian visa for the team's opening match against Panama last week. The 33-year-old former Arsenal player, who is facing rape and sexual assault charges in England, was granted entry to the United States after the Canadian refusal, allowing him to participate in the tournament.

Partey, who has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving four women, is awaiting trial in London. Canadian authorities stated that hosting major events does not alter their immigration laws and that visa applications are assessed individually. The refusal prevented him from playing in Ghana's first match against Panama, which was hosted in Canada.

Despite the legal challenges, Partey remains focused on football. "I feel normal and ready to play. It is part of football. Things outside of football that you cannot control," he told the BBC. The situation has sparked discussions about the differing treatment of players facing serious allegations across host nations, with the US granting him a visa while Canada did not.

The match against England in Boston is expected to draw significant attention. Partey could face boos from spectators, similar to Morocco's captain Achraf Hakimi, who also faces rape allegations and was booed during the tournament. Ghana seeks to rebound after their opening loss to Panama.