‘England Are Lucky!’, Black Stars Boss Disappointed By 'Clear Penalty' Snub

Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz claimed that his side should have been awarded "a clear penalty" against England, suggesting the Three Lions were fortunate to escape without conceding.

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Thomas Tuchel's men came into the encounter knowing that victory would secure their place in the Round of 32, but they were frustrated by a disciplined and resilient Black Stars side as the two teams played out a goalless draw.

The result leaves England at the summit of Group L with four points, while Ghana are level on points in second place, separated only by goal difference heading into the final round of fixtures.

'Points Are Terribly Expensive' At The World Cup

Reflecting on the encounter, Queiroz highlighted the sacrifices required to earn points at football's biggest tournament.

"To collect points in this World Cup, you have to pay a high price; the points are very expensive," he said, according to Citi News Room.

"When you get three points and one point, you have to celebrate because it was a lot of runs, a lot of sacrifices, a lot of commitment during the game."

Black Stars Stand Firm Against Three Lions

Ghana produced an impressive defensive display throughout the contest, limiting England to six off-target efforts during the first half. Declan Rice's header, which failed to trouble Lawrence Ati-Zigi, was arguably the closest the Europeans came before the break.

England increased the pressure after halftime and forced Ati-Zigi into action on several occasions, but the Ghanaian defence remained organised and difficult to break down.

While they spent large spells defending, the Black Stars arguably created the better opportunities late in the game.

With less than 10 minutes remaining, Abdul Fatawu burst forward on a dangerous counterattack, only for his effort to be blocked by Ezri Konsa. The rebound then struck Antoine Semenyo near the goal line, denying Ghana what looked like a certain opener.

Moments later, Prince Kwabena Adu drove into the penalty area before going down under a recovery challenge from Konsa. Despite strong appeals from the Ghanaian players, the referee waved play on.

The Portuguese tactician did not hide his frustration after the final whistle, insisting that Ghana were denied a clear opportunity to claim all three points.

"We had our chances to the point that they are lucky, they are very lucky," Queiroz said.

"It was a clear penalty and a red card. At the end of the day, that's why I say it was a fair result."

Croatia Clash Awaits As Qualification Beckons

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to a crucial final Group L encounter against Croatia.

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Ghana remain in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 32, with a draw likely to be enough to secure second place and automatic progression to the knockout stages.