Ghana Black Stars midfielder Kwasi Sibo has opened up about the mood in camp following the controversial Canadian visa denial of deputy captain Thomas Partey.
As the national team finalizes preparations for their 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match against Panama in Toronto, Sibo emphasized that the squad is entirely united and driven to win the game for their missing teammate. The match kicks off tonight at 23:00 GMT on June 17.
Speaking to 3 Sports after a training camp, the midfield engine detailed how the players are processing the sudden setback. Rather than letting the news dampen spirits, Sibo revealed that the team is channeling the disappointment into motivation.
"This squad always have a say that whatever that doesn't kill you will make you stronger. And he has that word because we know that our brother has been through a lot these days and we are always with him. He is one of our biggest stars in our team, you know?"
Partey's absence leaves a massive void in Ghana's midfield, especially given his leadership and experience on the global stage. Sibo, however, notes that the bond within the current squad goes beyond the pitch, viewing the situation as a rallying cry for the entire group.
"For that, we have to make sure we win the game for him as a family to make him happy because he is with us from the first day that we started this campaign."
The Black Stars are facing a tough test against a resilient Panama side to kick off their World Cup group stage. With England and Croatia still to come in Group L, three points tonight are critical. While Sibo admitted it hurts not to have their star man on the field for such a crucial opener, he closed with a firm promise to Partey and the millions of Ghanaian fans watching across the globe.
"It hurts that tonight we playing our first game at this big stage and he's not part with us, but we are giving him our word that tonight we will make sure that he will be at the back of the TV and at the end of the 90 minutes he will be happy."