Why Thomas Partey Can Play Against England in the US Even Though Canada Denied Him Entry, According to FIFA Rules
Thomas Tuchel has finally figured out a winning way to set up England’s midfield—something Gareth Southgate struggled to do. Now, as the Three Lions get ready to face Ghana in their second group game, there’s a surprise: Thomas Partey will be making a comeback after missing the first match.
The 33-year-old midfielder is one of Ghana’s key players, and he’ll take the field alongside Antoine Samenyo, who interestingly could have played for England instead. If you watched Ghana’s first game against Panama, you might be surprised to see Partey back in action.
In that opening match, Partey wasn’t allowed to enter the stadium because his visa was denied. This happened because the Canadian government refused his entry due to ongoing legal issues. He’s facing serious charges in London but has pleaded not guilty. While he’s waiting for his trial, FIFA hasn’t banned him from playing in the World Cup. However, they can’t control each host country’s visa decisions.
FIFA said, “We don’t handle visa applications—that’s up to the host countries.” Since the England vs. Ghana game is in Boston, USA, Partey was able to get a visa to enter America. Ghana is staying at Bryant University in Rhode Island, and Partey can move freely between states, so he can comfortably play in Boston.
Four days after that, Ghana faces Croatia in Philadelphia, where Partey will also be ready to play. But if Ghana advances to the next round and has to play in Canada, visa problems might come up again.
Ghana’s coach, Carlos Queiroz, knew this was a risk but chose to include Partey anyway. He said, “He’s here with me, so I stand by my decision. It’s not for me or anyone else to judge. We just have to let things take their course and trust that the truth will come out eventually.”
Partey is expected to start for Ghana in midfield against England, going up against stars like Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Elliot Anderson in the center of the pitch.