Ivory Coast winger Elye Wahi denied Canada visa amid match-fixing investigation

Canada have denied entry to Ivory Coast forward Elye Wahi, ruling him out of their crucial Group E World Cup clash against Germany as a separate investigation into alleged match-fixing continues in France.

The 23-year-old, who featured in Côte d’Ivoire’s narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their opening fixture, has reportedly been barred from travelling with the squad after Canadian authorities refused his entry application.

The decision comes amid an ongoing probe in France linked to suspected spot-fixing during his time in Ligue 1 with Nice.

According to reports from French media, investigators are examining allegations that Wahi deliberately picked up a yellow card in a league match against Metz on May 17, 2026.

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That booking is said to have coincided with unusual betting activity detected across multiple regions, prompting French football authorities and law enforcement agencies to launch a formal investigation into the incident.

While no formal charges have been confirmed, the case has already had immediate sporting consequences, with Wahi now unavailable for one of Ivory Coast’s most important matches of the tournament.

The absence is a major setback for the Elephants, who had counted on the young forward’s pace and movement following his involvement in the opening win over Ecuador.

Ivory Coast now face the challenge of adjusting their attacking options ahead of a decisive Group E encounter against Germany.

The situation remains under investigation in France, with authorities yet to release further details as the case develops.

FKA/JE

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