Nigeria, June 13 -- FIFA has confirmed that Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will be unavailable for the Black Stars' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Canadian authorities refused his visa application.

The decision means the 32-year-old midfielder will miss Ghana's Group L clash against Panama in Toronto on 17 June, dealing a significant blow to the four-time African champions ahead of their tournament opener.

In a statement first reported by The Athletic, FIFA clarified that the world football governing body had no role in the visa decision.

"FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana's Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, a...