England's World Cup players shook hands with former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey before their Group L match against Ghana, but the BBC television feed did not show the handshake. The Three Lions faced Ghana in Boston on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, after a 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening match.
Pre-Match Handshake Controversy
All 26 England players participated in the pre-match handshake with Partey, who currently plays for Villarreal. However, BBC coverage cut away from the handshake line, sparking criticism. Partey, 33, is due to stand trial in the UK next year after pleading not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault between 2020 and 2022.
FIFA had altered the pre-match routine for this World Cup, requiring all 26 squad members to line up around the centre circle for national anthems and handshakes, rather than only the starting XI.
Partey's Visa Issues
Partey missed Ghana's 1-0 win over Panama in their opener after being refused entry to Canada. He had incorrectly stated on his visa application that he had never been arrested or charged with a crime. Immigration officials denied him entry, and an appeal was rejected by Justice Roger Lafrenière in an Ottawa courtroom. Ghana defeated Panama 1-0 with a goal from Caleb Yirenkyi.
England's World Cup Campaign
England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, are seeking their first World Cup title since 1966. The match against Ghana was crucial for qualification to the round-of-32 stage. Fans in Boston expressed anger over Partey's presence, with some booing the midfielder during the game.
