Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz unleashed a blistering attack on the match officials following the Black Stars' goalless draw with England in the FIFA World Cup 2026, insisting that VAR failed Ghana at two pivotal moments in the second half.

Queiroz argued that both England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and defender Ezri Konsa deserved punishment for challenges on Ghana forward Prince Adu — yet neither incident drew a card or a penalty. The Ghana bench made their displeasure clear throughout both incidents.

The two flashpoints

The first controversy erupted in the 66th minute when Pickford collided with Adu outside the penalty area. Queiroz described the contact as a "clear shock" and maintained that the England goalkeeper should have received a red card.

The second incident saw Konsa appear to bring Adu down as the forward bore down on goal. Former England striker Wayne Rooney, watching on, questioned the call and argued that Konsa took a "huge risk" because he "gets the man, not the ball."

Queiroz turns his fire on VAR

The Ghana coach expressed particular frustration that the video review system did not intervene in either case, arguing both incidents had a direct bearing on the result.

"Is VAR still working at the World Cup? Do we still have VAR? I have my doubts."

Queiroz continued his pointed critique, stating that "the VAR referee was on vacation second half, apparently," before adding: "Once again, the VAR went for coffee." He capped his remarks with a challenge to those present — "It's a clear penalty and a red card. Do you have any doubts about that, or is it only me who was at the game?"

What's next for the Black Stars

Despite the frustration, Ghana's point keeps them in a strong position. The Black Stars currently sit second in Group L and will face Panama in their final group-stage fixture on Saturday, with a place in the knockout rounds potentially within reach.