Thomas Tuchel’s England were held to a goalless draw by Ghana in Boston – but the night was dominated by a penalty controversy and a pre-match handshake snub that has reignited debate around Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey.
Before kick-off, most of England’s players followed FIFA protocol and greeted Partey, who faces a rape charge. However, Djed Spence appeared to refuse to shake the 33-year-old’s hand, drawing frustration from fans as cameras cut away from the exchange.
“England's goalless draw with Ghana marred by penalty controversy and Djed Spence's handshake snub of Thomas Partey”
On the pitch, Ghana manager Carlo Queiroz was left fuming after his side were denied what he believed was a clear penalty late in the game. Prince Kwabena Adu charged into the box before Ezra Konsa came across and appeared to bring down the midfielder. Replays showed Konsa caught Adu on the knee and made no contact with the ball, but no spot-kick was given – and VAR did not intervene.
“Once again VAR went for a coffee,” Queiroz said sarcastically. “I’m not sure VAR is still working in the World Cup. We still have VAR? It’s working? … It was a clear penalty, red card.”
BBC pundits agreed. Wayne Rooney said: “I think that’s a penalty. Konsa takes a huge risk … He gets the man, not the ball.” Micah Richards added: “On another day, that could have been a penalty.” Former assistant referee Darren Cann felt the incident should have been referred, noting Konsa made no contact with the ball.
The decision was consistent with Fifa’s higher threshold for VAR intervention, as outlined by head of referees Pierluigi Collina.
Hours later, Croatia capitalised on England’s slip. Ante Budimir’s 54th-minute goal – fired home from close range after a cross from Josip Stanisic – gave Croatia a 1-0 win over Panama. Luka Modric’s side now sit just one point behind England in Group Stage, leaving Tuchel’s men needing a result in their final group fixture to secure top spot.