Ghana Black Stars will play their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L opener against Panama without Thomas Partey, after a Canadian court dismissed the midfielder's appeal against the decision to deny him entry into the country.

The ruling follows efforts by the Government of Ghana to secure the player's entry through diplomatic channels after Canadian authorities rejected his Temporary Resident Visa application.

Canadian immigration authorities denied Partey's application due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where he faces multiple rape charges.

The Ghanaian government challenged the decision, arguing that the midfielder has not been convicted of any offence and should be afforded the presumption of innocence.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa had previously stated that Ghana was engaging Canadian authorities in an attempt to resolve the matter before the Black Stars' opening Group L fixture against Panama on Wednesday, June 17.

The court's decision means Partey will not be available for selection for the match unless there is a further legal or administrative development.

The midfielder remained in the United States while the rest of the Ghana squad travelled to Toronto ahead of the tournament.

Partey has denied all charges through his legal representatives, and the criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom remain ongoing.

Ghana will begin its World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17.