In a tense World Cup encounter at Boston Stadium, Ghana and England played to a goalless draw, leaving Ghana on the verge of a knockout-stage appearance for the first time since 2010. However, the match was marred by controversy, particularly regarding a late penalty appeal from the Black Stars.

Queiroz Questions VAR Decisions

Ghana's head coach, Carlos Queiroz, expressed his bewilderment over the officiating, suggesting that the VAR officials were inattentive during a crucial moment in the match. He pointed to a challenge by England's Ezri Konsa on Ghana's Prince Adu in the 79th minute, which many believed warranted a penalty. Queiroz remarked, "I'm not sure VAR is still working in the World Cup. Do we still have VAR? It's working?" He emphasized that the incident was a "clear penalty" and even a potential red card, questioning whether he was the only one who noticed the infraction.

Match Statistics and Performance

Despite England dominating possession with 78.8%, the highest recorded by any team in a World Cup match without scoring since 1966, Ghana managed to hold their ground. The Black Stars were limited to just two shots and an expected goals (xG) value of 0.17, while England had 19 attempts and an xG of 1.36. However, Ghana's counter-attacks posed a threat, with one instance leading to a collision between Jordan Pickford and Adu just outside the penalty area, which also went unpunished.

Queiroz acknowledged the draw as a fair result, stating, "They played more time with the ball, we fought more, we fought better, we created our chances." He added that while England was fortunate, he was content with the outcome. Ghana now faces Croatia in their final Group L match, knowing that a draw will secure them a top-two finish, while even a loss could see them advance as one of the best third-place teams.

As the tournament progresses, both teams have their sights set on the next challenge, with England needing a win against Panama to secure the top spot in the group.