Thomas Partey handshake snub by England's Djed Spence at World Cup 2026

England defender Djed Spence declined to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their 0‑0 World Cup group match in Boston, a moment that quickly spread on social media. Partey, who missed Ghana’s first match after being denied entry to Canada over sexual‑assault allegations, faced boos from English fans, while the rest of the England squad exchanged handshakes as usual.

The liveblog also noted other tournament sights, including a Congolese fan dressed as a statue of Patrice Lumumba supporting the DR Congo team, and Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz’s criticism of a VAR decision. FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump will present the World Cup trophy after the final in New York.