Ghana's missed penalty vs England sparks VAR and referee criticism at World Cup 2026

Ghana and England drew 0-0 in their Group L World Cup 2026 match, but the Black Stars argue they were denied a clear penalty when England defender Ezri Konsa appeared to bring down substitute Prince Kwabena Adu in the box. Coach Carlos Queiroz said, "It was a clear penalty," and criticized both referee Said Martinez and VAR official Guillermo Pacheco for not reviewing the incident.

The referee waved away the appeal and VAR chose not to recommend an on‑field review, prompting anger from Ghanaian players and staff. Former England figures, including Ian Wright, Gary Neville and ex‑assistant referee Darren Cann, echoed the view that a penalty should have been awarded. The controversy has placed Martinez and Pacheco under intense scrutiny as Ghana prepares for its final group match against Croatia.