Ghana Challenges Partey's Visa Denial Ahead Of World Cup Opener

Ghana's government challenged Canada's decision to deny midfielder Thomas Partey a visa for his team’s World Cup opener while he awaits trial on rape charges. The 32-year-old Partey, who is scheduled to stand trial in London later this year, returned to Ghana’s base camp in Rhode Island after Canada denied his visa application to enter the country for Wednesday's match against Panama in Toronto. Partey faces allegations from several women dating to his time with English club Arsenal from 2020-25. Partey, who played in Spain for Villarreal this past season, has pleaded not guilty. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz had also cited a presumption of innocence for Partey when he included the player in his World Cup squad.