Al-Hariq Overview

Ghana’s government has launched a scathing attack on Canadian authorities, accusing them of flouting international laws after Thomas Partey was denied entry into the country due to ongoing legal proceedings over rape charges against him. The Villarreal midfielder was expected to lead his nation in their 2026 World Cup opener against Panama, but he remains stranded at the team's base camp in Boston following a visa rejection stemming from the allegations.

The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars