The Ghana national football team's preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have been dealt a blow as midfielder Thomas Partey loses his appeal to join the team in Canada. Partey, who plays for Spain's Villarreal, was denied entry into Canada due to the country's immigration law. The 32-year-old is awaiting trial in England, where he faces charges of rape and sexual assault. Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz fielded questions about the situation at a press conference, stating that his business is to play with the cards he has in front of him. Partey has scored 16 goals in 58 career caps for Ghana, including three goals during the 2026 World Cup qualifying process. The Ghana national football team's World Cup base camp is in Providence, R.I., and Partey has been with the team for training and preparations for matches. Justice Roger Lafreniere heard the request and rejected it, leaving Partey unable to enter Canada. Canada stated that hosting the World Cup doesn't mean making changes to long-standing immigration laws. Partey said he would be monitored continuously by the Ghana Football Association and leave Canada with the team after the match. Ghana faces Panama in Group L play on Wednesday. With the appeal denied, Partey would rejoin his team for its other Group L matches against England on June 23 in Foxborough, Mass., and Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia. The Ghana national football team's fans will be disappointed by the news, but the team will have to adapt without Partey for their World Cup opener. Partey pleaded not guilty to all counts and remains presumed innocent. The Ghana Football Association will have to find a way to replace Partey's skills and experience in the team's lineup. The team's preparations for the World Cup will continue without Partey, but his absence will be felt. And the Ghana national football team will have to work hard to overcome this setback and achieve their goals in the tournament.