Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, believes Black Stars deputy captain Thomas Partey could play a decisive role when the team face England in a crucial Group L clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Partey missed Ghana’s opening match against Panama, where the Black Stars secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory, after Canadian authorities denied his visa application due to criminal charges currently pending against the midfielder.
The 33-year-old subsequently sought to overturn the decision through an emergency application, but the Canadian Federal Court upheld the visa refusal.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Baidoo highlighted Partey’s importance to the national team, insisting Ghana lacked his experience, composure and quality in midfield during the win over Panama.
According to the lawmaker, the midfielder’s presence could prove crucial as Ghana prepare to take on one of the tournament favourites.
“Thomas Partey will be the difference-maker against England; he’s fired up and ready to take control of the game,” Baidoo said.
Ghana currently sit second in Group L behind England, who began their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia.
The Black Stars will now turn their attention to a high-stakes encounter against the Three Lions at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group-stage campaign against Croatia four days later.
Having already secured three points, coach Carlos Queiroz and his side will be eager to maintain their momentum as they pursue a place in the knockout stages for the first time since their historic quarter-final appearance at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
