Ghana’s government has launched a legal challenge against Canada’s refusal to grant midfielder Thomas Partey a visa to enter the country.
The case is set to be heard at 14:00 BST in Ottawa, with Ghana hoping for a swift resolution before their tournament begins.
Partey faces the prospect of missing Ghana’s World Cup opener against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday if the court does not rule in his favour.
The 33-year-old’s visa complications stem from ongoing criminal proceedings currently taking place in the UK.
Partey pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations by four different women between 2020 and 2022, and is due to stand trial next year.
The Ghanaian government has described Canada’s decision as “high-handed and extremely unfair” and is seeking permission for Partey to enter the country briefly for the match.
Authorities have also asked the court to instruct Canadian immigration officials to allow Partey to submit a fresh visa application.
Ghana’s foreign minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the country is additionally exploring diplomatic channels to resolve the situation for the former Arsenal player.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada told the BBC: “Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws. Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz stated before the tournament that he had no qualms over selecting Partey for the squad.
Partey, now playing for Spanish side Villarreal, has earned more than 50 caps for Ghana since making his international debut in June 2016.
It remains unclear how long the court proceedings will take, leaving Partey’s participation against Panama very much in doubt.
Ghana’s remaining group fixtures take them to Boston on 23 June to face England and Philadelphia on 27 June to take on Croatia.
However, the side could find themselves back on Canadian soil in the last 32 if they finish as runners-up in Group L.
