Ghana should have been awarded a penalty against England – Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney believes England defender Ezri Konsa took a “huge risk” during a controversial second-half challenge that became one of the defining moments of the Three Lions’ goalless World Cup draw against Ghana.

The incident unfolded in Boston when Ghana substitute Prince Kwabena Adu raced through on goal before being brought down by Konsa inside the penalty area.

The Aston Villa defender launched into a sliding challenge that appeared to catch the Ghanaian forward, prompting immediate penalty appeals from the Black Stars.

However, the protests were cut short after officials ruled that Adu had been marginally offside in the build-up, meaning any potential penalty or disciplinary action against Konsa was cancelled.

Speaking on BBC television after the match, former England captain Rooney questioned the defender’s decision-making, insisting Konsa had been fortunate to escape punishment.

“I think that’s a penalty,” Rooney said.

“Konsa takes a huge risk. His feet are off the floor when he comes flying in and he gets the man, not the ball.”

The decision proved a major turning point in a tightly contested Group L encounter, with England ultimately holding on for a 0-0 draw against a well-organised Ghana side.

While the offside call spared England from conceding what could have been a decisive penalty, and potentially being reduced to 10 men, the incident has sparked fresh debate over the team’s defensive composure under pressure.

Ghana, who produced another disciplined display, felt aggrieved by the outcome but earned a valuable point that keeps their hopes of reaching the knockout stage firmly in their own hands.

For England, the result maintained their position in Group L, but Rooney’s criticism highlighted lingering concerns over defensive lapses as the tournament moves into its decisive phase.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

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