England ‘very fortunate’ vs Ghana as ex-refs chief re-analyses controversial footage

England were "very fortunate" not to concede a penalty against Ghana on Tuesday on a night when their frustration could have been magnified by a bruising World Cup defeat.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Ghana could have been awarded a late penalty in the 0-0 group stage clash.

Ghana could have topped the group with a victory, and had a golden chance to snatch all three points when Prince Kwabena Adu raced into the box after being played one-on-one before he was taken down.

Ezri Konsa put in a risky challenge in the 79th minute on Tuesday to take out the attacker, but was left unpunished.

Ghana themselves then had plenty of heart-in-mouth moments as England went on to have several chances for themselves at the end, but not even Harry Kane was able to break the deadlock.

At full-time, many Ghana fans are certain that a penalty should have been awarded for the West African side, and Hackett believes England are fortunate this was not the case.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “England were very fortunate not to concede a penalty kick for the foul challenge.

“The England player jumping in from the side, making contact with his opponent, and really making no attempt to play the ball.

“The referee was out of position and unable to see and act.

“Immediately after that challenge, the flag was raised for offside.”

Despite the draw, England will still be the favourites to win Group L.

A victory over Panama on Saturday should be enough to secure this, with the Three Lions expected to claim three points against the Central American side they beat 6-1 in the 2018 World Cup.

Now, after every side has played two matches, England are currently on course to play Cape Verde in the round of 32 as each nation prepares for their final group game.

The West African nation have drawn their opening two matches, and are on track for a third-place finish in Group H.

This match would take place on Wednesday, 1 July at 5pm, with a potential tie against Mexico or Scotland awaiting them in the round of 16 if they progress.