England were lucky not to concede a penalty during their goalless draw against Ghana, according to former Premier League referee Darren Cann. The incident occurred when Ezri Konsa lunged at substitute Prince Kwabena Adu inside the box, making contact with his knee but not the ball. Referee Said Martinez of Honduras waved play on, and VAR did not intervene.
Match Overview
The two Group L teams played out a 0-0 stalemate at Boston's Gillette Stadium. The match was devoid of clear-cut chances as Ghana defended diligently. Nico O'Reilly hit the crossbar late on, and Harry Kane blazed over, but Thomas Tuchel's men were otherwise underwhelming.
Former Referee's Verdict
Darren Cann, who officiated 579 Premier League matches before retiring in April 2025, said on BBC's post-match coverage: "Konsa makes no contact with the ball. He brings down his opponent. You can see it perfectly from this angle. He's airborne, he's out of control, he makes contact with the attacker and no contact with the ball. For me this is a penalty kick. We've had seven penalties in this World Cup so far. I'm very glad that wasn't an eighth!"
VAR Controversy
When asked by Joe Hart if VAR would have overruled had the penalty been awarded, Cann replied: "That's the dilemma for the VAR, Joe. In this tournament, most of the time, they've gone with the on-field decision. We had one last night in the Argentina game where it was overturned. But the general thrust of the tournament is such that they'll stick with the on-field decision unless it's clearly, clearly wrong."
Reactions from Former Players
Alan Shearer, who scored 30 goals in 63 caps for England, said on BBC commentary: "Not a disaster but it is absolutely a reality check." Wayne Rooney, with 53 goals in 120 caps, added: "We didn't get enough crosses in but Ghana were excellent and disciplined. England have qualified, that's the main thing. For Tuchel now, I expect changes on Saturday night." Micah Richards also commented: "On another day, that could have been a penalty."
Group Stage Implications
Despite the draw, England have already qualified for the next round. The team will face their next match on Saturday, where Tuchel is expected to make changes. Joe Hart summed up: "It's not a disaster. It's key we don't get too high and too low. Credit to Ghana, brilliant game plan and they could have nicked it."
