Ghana coach Otto Addo criticized the American referee who awarded the penalty that resulted in Cristiano Ronaldo’s report purpose on the World Cup on Thursday, calling it “a particular reward.”
Ronaldo received and transformed the second-half penalty, making him the primary male participant to attain in 5 World Cups. Portugal went on to beat Ghana 3-2.
“If any person scores a purpose, congratulations. However this was actually a present. Actually a present,” Addo stated. “What extra can I say? (It was) a particular reward from the referee.”
Addo’s criticism of American referee Ismail Elfath was so direct that it might put him into hassle with FIFA.
When requested what he thought was the explanation for Ghana’s slim defeat, Addo responded: “The referee.”
Ghana’s head coach Otto Addo gestures in the course of the World Cup group H soccer match between Portugal and Ghana, on the Stadium 974 in Doha, Qatar, Thursday, Nov. 24, 2022. (AP Picture/Hassan Ammar)
Addo felt Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu didn’t foul Ronaldo for the penalty, and he complained that the officers didn’t use VAR to ensure. Salisu’s thigh appeared to make slight contact with Ronaldo’s leg earlier than the Portugal captain went sprawling to the bottom.
The 37-year-old Ronaldo, who was beginning what’s anticipated to be his final World Cup, transformed the penalty for his piece of historical past.
“I feel it was actually the mistaken choice,” Addo stated. “I don’t know why VAR didn’t come up. There’s no rationalization for me. After which it’s tough towards a world-class crew when they’re main.”
Addo is a 47-year-old former Ghana participant who’s in his first worldwide teaching job and at his first World Cup. He stated he even tried to satisfy with Elfath after the sport to ask him concerning the incident. Addo additionally complained that Elfath had missed quite a few fouls on his gamers.
“I attempted,” Addo stated. “I requested some folks exterior with FIFA if I can speak with the referee in a peaceful and a quiet approach however they stated he’s in a gathering and it’s not doable.”