England held to drab 0-0 by Ghana as Queiroz accuses VAR of 'going for a coffee'

England failed to secure their place in the World Cup knockout rounds after being held to a goalless draw by Ghana, with Thomas Tuchel’s side now needing a result against already-eliminated Panama in New York on Saturday to advance from Group L.

Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz was scathing in his post-match assessment, accusing the video assistant referee of failing to act on two key incidents. In the 66th minute, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford collided with Prince Ade outside the penalty area, and 12 minutes later Ezri Konsa brought down Prince Adu inside the box without making contact with the ball — neither incident resulting in a penalty or red card.

“I’m not sure VAR is still working in the World Cup. We still have VAR? It’s working?” Queiroz said. “I have some doubts about that. It’s a clear penalty and a red card. We had our chances to the point that they’re lucky. They’re very lucky.”

England’s best opportunities came late in the match. Nico O’Reilly headed against the crossbar, and Harry Kane inexplicably ballooned the follow-up over the bar from close range — a moment that summed up a toothless attacking display.

The result extends an unwanted England pattern: for the fourth consecutive major tournament, they have drawn their second group-stage match. Tuchel cut a frustrated figure on the touchline, while Queiroz celebrated the point with his players as though it were a victory — and given the circumstances, it very nearly could have been.

Jude Bellingham, named player of the match despite the performance, publicly questioned the decision. The result also means Croatia, who beat eliminated Panama thanks to Ante Budimir’s second-half goal, have piled pressure on England heading into the final round of group fixtures.

Thomas Partey’s return to the Ghana lineup drew boos from England supporters throughout the first half. The midfielder had missed Ghana’s opening match against Panama after being denied entry to Canada while facing a rape charge. Partey also appeared to be snubbed by Djed Spence during the pre-match handshakes.