Ghana ready for World Cup clash against Panama without Partey, says coach

Canada denied entry to Thomas Partey who is facing rape and sexual assault allegations in Britain. (EPA Images pic)

TORONTO: Ghana are prepared to play their World Cup Group L match against Panama without Thomas Partey, coach Carlos Queiroz said on Tuesday as the midfielder lost his appeal of Canada’s decision to deny him entry into the country.

A Canadian federal court judge heard the appeal on Tuesday morning, one day before the match at Toronto Stadium. The judge dismissed the motion later in the day.

“We have our plan settled,” Queiroz told a press conference before the court’s decision was released, adding that he had no comments to make about Partey, who faces allegations of rape ⁠and sexual ​assault in Britain. The Villarreal midfielder has denied the charges.

“To add more comments about issues that are nonsense is not part of my business,” Queiroz said. “My business is to play with the cards that I have in front of me. … When the decision comes, we are ready.”

Queiroz spoke highly of his opponents, calling Panama a very organised and experienced team, but the 73-year-old said Ghana have a lot of tools in their kit as well.

“Of course, (Panama) have some weaknesses,” Queiroz said. “We need to find them and I believe (we) have the solution to their strengths.”

“We’ve got great experience, we’ve got quality, we’ve got speed, we’ve got skill,” he added. “I think we can do well in one-on-one situations. We’re strong and we’ll showcase our strengths in the game.”

When asked about FIFA’s mandatory hydration breaks during World Cup matches that have sparked debates among players and coaches, Queiroz said it is useless to express opinions now but he would like to see an integrity report on the new rule when the tournament concludes.

“An integrity report must be clear and judge if this decision was really made more to protect the health and the performance of the players, or if it was made to protect marketing and other issues,” Queiroz said.