World Cup Player Could Be Blocked From Knockout Round if His Team Finishes Second

World Cup Player Could Be Blocked From Knockout Round if His Team Finishes Second reports that Ghana’s Thomas Partey may be unable to play in his nation’s first knockout match if Ghana finishes as runners-up in Group L. Ghana is “almost guaranteed” a spot in the Round of 32 after earning four points from its first two fixtures, following a narrow win over Panama and a goalless draw with England. Partey started against England, but his availability for the next round depends on the group’s final standings and where Ghana would play. If Ghana tops Group L, the Round of 32 match would be in the United States at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and Partey would be expected to be able to play. However, if Ghana finishes second, the Round of 32 would be at Toronto’s BMO Field against Portugal or Colombia, where the report says he could again face entry complications. Partey has denied rape and sexual assault allegations and is awaiting trial in the UK.