There is now more controversy regarding entering Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After Thomas Partey of Ghana was denied access to the country, Elye Wahi of Ivory Coast has also been barred from entering Canada. This means that Wahi is unable to play in the crucial group match between Ivory Coast and Germany.

According to the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF), Elye Wahi who is 23 years old is unable to secure the necessary administrative clearances and therefore cannot enter Canada. Wahi will remain in the US and will not travel to Canada with his teammates. However, Wahi managed to play in Ivory Coast’s victory against Ecuador in the first match of the World Cup.

Recent reports from France link Wahi to an alleged spot-fixing investigation. It is alleged that he deliberately received a yellow card during a Ligue 1 match played between Nice and Metz in May. French prosecutors confirmed that a 23-year-old Ligue 1 player had been detained in connection with the investigation, though no player was officially named. Meanwhile, the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has also acknowledged receiving information regarding unusual betting activity involving Wahi. However, the Ivory Coast Football Federation has clarified that it has received no official information regarding any judicial or administrative action against the player and stands firmly in support of Wahi.

Prior to Wahi, veteran Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey was also denied entry into Canada. Partey was unable to participate in Ghana's opening group match against Panama. Canadian authorities had rejected his visa application, citing a pending criminal case against him in the United Kingdom. Partey faces allegations related to rape and sexual violence, though he has consistently denied all charges.

The Ghanaian government reacted strongly to Thomas Partey's case. Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged an official protest, describing Canada's decision as unfair. The Ministry argued that denying entry based solely on allegations—before a final court verdict is reached-runs counter to the principles of fairness and justice. Ghana had also requested that Canada reconsider its decision.

Issues regarding visas and travel documents for players and officials have frequently arisen in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The cases of Thomas Partey and Elye Wahi have further highlighted these challenges. Throughout the World Cup cycle, numerous players and officials have previously encountered obstacles related to entry, visa approvals, and travel documentation across various countries.

Elye Wahi will miss the match against Germany and await the team's return to the United States. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey was unable to participate in the matches held in Canada, though he remains with the Ghana squad in the US and will be available for future fixtures. With Canada denying entry to a second World Cup player, fresh questions have been raised regarding player movement and visa procedures during the tournament.