World Cup 2026: Carlos Queiroz refuses to be distracted by Thomas Partey visa saga ahead of Panama clash

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has refused to allow the uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey's visa situation to distract Ghana's preparations for their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting his sole focus remains on beating Panama.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference in Toronto on Tuesday, Queiroz told reporters he already has a plan in place regardless of whether Partey is cleared to join the squad before kickoff.

The Ghana midfielder remains in the United States after Canadian authorities denied him entry because of ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Partey has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving four women, while legal and diplomatic efforts continue to overturn the decision.

Despite the uncertainty, Queiroz said his preparations have not changed.

"We have our plan settled. We are in this moment counting with all the 26 players that we have in the squad and tomorrow we'll make a decision on what will be the starting lineup."

The Portuguese coach declined to be drawn into discussing the legal issues surrounding his midfielder, making it clear that such matters fall outside his responsibilities.

"I think it's not necessary to make comments. The story is open, the freedom of speech is open."

Instead, Queiroz stressed that his responsibility is to prepare the team with the players currently at his disposal.

"To add more comments about issues that are nonsense is not part of my business. My business is to play with the cards that I have in front of me."

"We are waiting for a decision. When the decision comes, we are ready to make the final approach to the game."

Ghana's technical team has spent the past week preparing for the Group L opener knowing there was a possibility Partey might not be available.

While the Ghanaian government continues diplomatic engagement with Canadian authorities and legal proceedings remain ongoing, the Black Stars have pressed ahead with preparations, determined not to let the off-field developments overshadow their World Cup campaign.

Ghana face Panama on Wednesday before taking on England and Croatia in what promises to be one of the tournament's most competitive groups. Whether Partey joins the squad or not, Queiroz made one thing clear, his attention is fixed on delivering three points in Ghana's opening match.