World Cup 2026: Black Stars didn’t protest for penalty against England because we were focused on a draw – Kwasi Sibo

Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo has admitted the Black Stars’ cautious approach prevented them from pushing for a famous victory against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking to Lawson TV after the controversial 0-0 Group L draw at Boston Stadium, Sibo revealed that Ghana’s mindset of protecting the result affected their reaction to a late penalty incident that could have changed the outcome.

The key moment came in the closing stages when Prince Adu Kwabena went down inside England’s penalty area after contact from defender Ezri Konsa.

However, instead of immediately appealing for a penalty and demanding a VAR review, Ghana’s players reacted as though their teammate had missed a chance.

The referee allowed play to continue, with the match eventually ending without goals.

Sibo explained that the team only recognised the seriousness of the incident after reviewing footage and images in the dressing room following the final whistle.

Replays appeared to show Konsa making contact with Adu without winning the ball, with several analysts arguing the situation warranted a penalty.

“We didn’t protest because we were focused on the draw. Coming up against England, the focus was to pick up a draw or a win. If we had a 100% mentality to win, we would have all protested for a penalty,” Sibo said.

Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign ended in the Round of 32 under manager Carlos Queiroz. Playing an ultra-defensive style, the Black Stars advanced from Group L after beating Panama 1-0, drawing 0-0 with England, and losing 2-1 to Croatia.