Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey took part in Ghana's 2026 World Cup game against England on June 23 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, after being unable to travel to Canada for the opener against Panama due to visa refusal [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Partey, 33, joined the team in Boston and was ready to play despite facing serious legal issues in Britain [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Partey faces seven charges of rape and between one and two charges of sexual assault, which he denies. He pleaded not guilty to seven rape charges and one sexual assault charge linked to allegations from four women between 2020 and 2022. His trial is scheduled for next year [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Partey said, "Things happen outside football that you cannot control. For me now, I feel OK and ready to play" [2].
US Customs and Border Protection confirmed Partey was issued a US visa and admitted despite pending court cases in Britain [2, 3]. Earlier, he was refused a Canadian visa, which ruled him out of Ghana's 1-0 World Cup opening victory over Panama on June 17 [1, 2, 4].
Partey came under jeers from England supporters during the match on June 23 [4, 6]. He played alongside Ghana teammates and former Arsenal colleagues who also play for England, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. Partey said he was "really happy to see" them again and hoped both sides would "try to compete and enjoy the game" [1]. He acknowledged England's quality: "I know it's not going to be easy. (They have) very good players and I am happy to play against them" [1].
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz said players were "fully motivated" to face England, calling it the "easiest type of match" to prepare for when playing top teams like England, France or Germany [2, 3]. The England Football Association declined to have their players comment on Partey's situation [1, 5].
Partey's World Cup trial is set for 2027, leaving the outcome unresolved during the tournament. Meanwhile, Ghana looks ahead to their next group match after their game vs. England.
