Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz voiced strong criticism of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system following his team's 0-0 draw against England in a World Cup match on Tuesday. Queiroz stated that VAR appeared to miss crucial calls, including two potential red cards and a penalty that he believed should have been awarded to Ghana.
"I’m not sure VAR is still working in the World Cup. We still have VAR? It’s working?" Queiroz told reporters after the match. "I have some doubts about that because another penalty that they need to give to Ghana, a clear penalty against England [was missed]."
His frustration centered on two incidents in the second half. Approximately 66 minutes into the game, England's Jordan Pickford collided with Ghana's Prince Adu. Queiroz asserted that Pickford should have received a red card for the challenge.
Later in the match, with about 12 minutes remaining, Ezri Konsa tackled Adu inside the penalty area. Queiroz described this as a "clear penalty and red card" that was not called. He sarcastically remarked that VAR "went for coffee" during these moments, a comment he clarified was meant with sarcasm.
Despite being significantly outshot by England, with Ghana managing only two attempts to England's 19, the Ghanaian defense held firm to secure a draw. Both teams had won their opening matches, with Ghana defeating Panama and England overcoming Croatia. The result leaves both teams needing a positive outcome in their final Group L match to advance to the knockout stage.