Partey booed by England fans as Ghana hold Three Lions to World Cup stalemate

Thomas Partey was booed by England fans when his name was announced over the PA system ahead of Ghana’s 0-0 World Cup draw with England at Boston on Tuesday, with Tottenham Hotspur full-back Djed Spence also choosing not to shake the midfielder’s hand during the pre-match formalities — a gesture that stood out as most England players followed the customary handshake protocol.

Partey, who pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault between 2020 and 2022 and is due to stand trial in the UK next year, had already been denied entry to Canada for Ghana’s Group L opener against Panama. An appeal that led to a court hearing in Ottawa eventually cleared the way for his participation in the tournament.

Speaking before the England fixture from Ghana’s training base at Bryant University in Rhode Island, Partey broke his silence on the visa complications, describing the situation as “part of football” and something beyond his control. He said he felt physically ready, was in good spirits, and that the squad had been preparing well.

On the pitch, Partey played the full 90 minutes in his familiar defensive midfield role for the Villarreal player, helping Ghana secure a clean sheet against a heavily dominant England side. England midfielder Declan Rice, a former Arsenal team-mate of Partey’s, praised his footballing qualities at a pre-match press conference and was seen embracing him at full time.

England’s performance raised serious questions for head coach Thomas Tuchel. Despite controlling 80 per cent of possession and completing 347 passes to Ghana’s 98 in the first half alone, they failed to register a shot on target until the 57th minute. Ghana’s disciplined low block and physical approach repeatedly disrupted the rhythm of Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Declan Rice, among others.

England’s best opportunity arrived late when a Matt O’Riley header struck the crossbar, leaving Tuchel to reflect on how his side can break down defensively organised opponents. Among the few encouraging individual displays were Noni Madueke, who offered directness and creativity on the wing, and Spence, who contributed a vital recovery run to deny Anthony Gordon an early second-half opening.