Ivorian striker Elye Wahi will miss his country’s crucial FIFA World Cup Group E clash against Germany after being denied entry into Canada amid an ongoing match-fixing investigation in France.
The 23-year-old forward, who started Ivory Coast’s opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador, is currently the subject of a probe by French authorities over allegations of spot-fixing during a Ligue 1 match involving his former club Nice.
According to multiple media reports, Wahi is accused of deliberately seeking a yellow card during Nice’s league fixture against Metz on May 17.
The booking reportedly attracted suspicious betting activity across several countries, prompting an investigation by French football authorities and law enforcement agencies.
French prosecutors have previously confirmed that the striker was arrested and questioned in May as part of an investigation into alleged organised fraud, sports corruption, money laundering and handling criminal proceeds.
However, Wahi has not been charged with any offence and remains under investigation.
The latest development is a major setback for Ivory Coast ahead of Saturday’s showdown against Germany in Toronto.
Wahi played an important role in the Elephants’ opening victory over Ecuador and was expected to feature prominently against the Group E leaders.
Neither FIFA nor the Ivorian Football Federation has officially commented on Canada’s decision.
It remains unclear whether the denial of entry is directly linked to the ongoing investigation or whether other immigration considerations were involved.
Wahi switched international allegiance from France to Cote d’Ivoire earlier this year and has quickly become an important figure in the national team setup.
His absence leaves Ivory Coast coach Emerse Faé with a significant selection dilemma as the African champions prepare to face one of the tournament favourites.
Germany head into the contest full of confidence following their emphatic 7-1 victory over Curaçao in their opening match.
Cote d’Ivoire, meanwhile, will be hoping to build on their winning start despite the off-field distraction surrounding one of their key attacking players.
The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for Wahi’s future, but for now the striker’s World Cup campaign has suffered a major blow with his enforced absence from Saturday’s high-profile encounter.
Credit: Africa Soccer