World Cup 2026: Elye Wahi cleared to enter Canada for Ivory Coast's clash with Germany

Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi has been cleared to enter Canada and will be available for Saturday's FIFA World Cup Group E match against Germany after initially being denied entry.

The 23-year-old Nice forward had been unable to travel after Canadian authorities delayed his visa while seeking further information about an ongoing legal investigation in France.

The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed on Thursday that the necessary authorisations had now been granted, allowing Wahi to rejoin the squad in Canada.

"The necessary authorisations for his entry into Canadian territory have now been obtained," the federation said in a statement. "As a result, the Ivorian international is authorised to travel with the Elephants' delegation to Canada and will continue his participation in the competition."

According to AFP, Canadian officials requested additional information regarding Wahi's legal situation before approving his entry.

Wahi is under investigation in France over allegations of spot-fixing during a Ligue 1 match between Nice and Metz in May. The Marseille public prosecutor's office confirmed a 23-year-old Ligue 1 player was arrested as part of an investigation into organised fraud, sports corruption and money laundering, although the player was later released without charge while inquiries continue.

The French Professional Football League (LFP) has also confirmed it received reports of unusual betting activity linked to a yellow card shown to Wahi in the match. No disciplinary proceedings have been opened, with the league awaiting the outcome of the investigation.

Wahi started Ivory Coast's opening World Cup victory over Ecuador and is now expected to be available for the crucial meeting with Germany in Toronto before the Elephants conclude their group campaign against Curacao.