Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has added his voice to those saying Ghana should have been given a penalty in their controversial World Cup draw with England.
The key moment came when Black Stars substitute Prince Kwabena Adu seemed to be fouled by England defender Ezri Konsa in the penalty area. However, referee Said Martinez dismissed the appeals and VAR did not step in.
“Ezri Konsa was incredibly lucky not to concede a penalty. He didn’t play the ball and caught Prince Adu on the knee,” Halsey told SunSport.
Halsey also wondered why VAR did not review the incident, saying England were lucky to come away with a point.
His comments are similar to those made by former England players Wayne Rooney and Micah Richards, and former World Cup final assistant referee Darren Cann. They all felt Ghana had a strong case for a penalty.
Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz was also critical after the match, saying: “We still have VAR? It’s working? It was a clear penalty.”
If the penalty had been given and scored, Ghana could have qualified for the Round of 32. Now, the Black Stars need a good result against Croatia to make it to the knockout stage.
