Thomas Partey was denied a Canadian visa and will miss Ghana’s opening World Cup match against Panama. Ghana’s government lodged an official protest with Canadian authorities over the visa denial. According to Dawn, Ghana filed a request for an injunction in Canadian federal court to overturn the visa denial, and a Canadian judge dismissed the legal challenge. Thomas Partey is facing multiple rape and sexual assault charges in the UK and has pleaded not guilty. According to France24, Partey is eligible to play in Ghana’s next two World Cup matches, both in the United States. ESPN.com reported that FIFA stated it does not involve itself in the immigration processes of host countries. Ghana’s coach stated the team would be prepared even if Partey was excluded. Panama’s coach said Ghana would still be a strong opponent without Partey.