Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has expressed confidence that the Black Stars remain in high spirits despite the controversy surrounding Thomas Partey’s visa denial by Canada ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener against Panama.
Canadian authorities reportedly refused the midfielder entry due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, raising questions over his availability for the Group H fixture.
Speaking on TV3, Adams acknowledged the importance of Partey to the squad but insisted the team has enough quality, depth and resilience to cope with his potential absence.
He said the Black Stars camp in Boston, United States, remains calm and focused as preparations continue for their opening match.
“I think the camp is really very, very positive,” Mr Adams said.
He added that any attempt to disrupt the team’s preparations would ultimately strengthen their determination to perform.
“No matter which countries are teaming together to do what, attempting to stop Thomas from partaking in the first game or whatever, to whose advantage or whatever, we don’t know. Ghana’s Black Stars will rise. We will shine everywhere like the way we have always done,” he stated.
“And you just wait and see what will happen come 17th, Wednesday,” he added.
Ghana begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, before facing England at Gillette Stadium in Boston on June 23 and Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27.
Despite missing the opening match, Partey remains eligible to feature in Ghana’s remaining Group H fixtures, all of which will be played in the United States.
