The VAR referee was on vacation in the second half – Carlos Queiroz after Ghana held England in goalless draw

Carlos Queiroz launched a furious criticism of match officials after Ghana’s goalless draw with England, claiming two controversial second-half decisions denied his side victory and questioning the effectiveness of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

The Ghana coach said England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford should have been sent off after colliding with Prince Adu outside the penalty area in the 66th minute.

“It was a clear shock,” Queiroz told reporters. “He should have been sent off, there is no doubt about that.”

Ghana’s frustrations deepened later in the match when England defender Ezri Konsa challenged Adu as the forward appeared to be through on goal. Queiroz believed the incident warranted both a penalty and a red card, while former England striker Wayne Rooney also questioned the challenge, saying Konsa had taken a “huge risk” by making contact with the player rather than the ball.

The Portuguese coach repeatedly aimed his frustration at VAR, suggesting the technology failed to intervene when it mattered most.

“Is VAR still working in the World Cup?” he asked. “Do we still have VAR? I have doubts about that.”

He added sarcastically: “The VAR referee was on vacation in the second half, apparently. Once again, the VAR went for coffee.”

Queiroz continued: “It’s a clear penalty and a red card. Do you have any doubts about that, or am I the only one who was at the game?”

Referee Said Martinez dismissed Ghana’s appeals on both occasions. Pickford’s collision resulted in a free-kick in England’s favour, while Konsa’s late challenge also escaped punishment after no intervention from VAR.

The two decisions left Ghana convinced they had been denied crucial opportunities to break the deadlock, with Adu appearing well placed to score in both incidents.

However, some analysts argued the decisions were not entirely clear-cut. They suggested Pickford may have avoided a red card because of defensive cover behind him, while replays indicated Konsa made partial contact with the ball before bringing down the Ghana forward.

The result leaves Ghana frustrated after a disciplined performance, with Queiroz insisting the officiating, rather than his team’s display, proved decisive in preventing all three points.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

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