Ghana faces England in World Cup as FA considers Thomas Partey handshake protocol

By Kwame Ofori — 2 June 2026 — 2 min read

Ghana’s World Cup preparations amidst legal considerations

The English Football Association (FA) is reportedly evaluating whether to issue specific guidance to England players regarding the traditional pre-match handshake with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey. This consideration comes ahead of their 2026 World Cup group stage match scheduled for June 23 in Boston. The situation stems from ongoing legal proceedings against Partey in the United Kingdom.

Thomas Partey, a 31-year-old midfielder, is facing seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He has entered not guilty pleas to all charges. The case remains before the courts, and his trial, initially set for November, could potentially be delayed until early 2027. Partey’s bail conditions require him to inform authorities before international travel, and US federal law mandates he declare this information upon entering the country.

Despite the legal challenges, Partey was included in Ghana‘s 26-man squad for the tournament by coach Carlos Queiroz. Partey, who departed Arsenal when his contract concluded last year and subsequently joined Villarreal, continues to be available for selection and represents Ghana while maintaining his innocence.

Coach Queiroz defends Partey’s inclusion

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has publicly defended his decision to select Thomas Partey for the World Cup squad. Speaking before a warm-up match against Wales, Queiroz emphasized that judging the player’s legal situation is not within his or the public’s purview.

Queiroz stated that the legal process should be allowed to proceed without premature conclusions. He stressed that the focus for the team remains on football, expressing confidence in Ghana‘s prospects at the tournament. The coach highlighted Ghana‘s deep passion for the sport as a significant factor in his decision to take on the coaching role.

The FA finds itself in a challenging position, aiming to balance football traditions with the sensitivity surrounding the ongoing legal proceedings. The governing body is expected to finalize its stance on the handshake protocol before the highly anticipated group stage encounter in Boston on June 23.

Upcoming World Cup fixture

The match between Ghana and England will be their second group stage fixture in the 2026 World Cup. The encounter is scheduled for June 23 in Boston.

Coach Queiroz remains determined to keep the team focused on their performance, stating, “Let the events run their normal course; let the river flow, and one day, when the river meets the ocean, we are going to find the truth.”