The Ghana Disappointment
Jude Bellingham (l.) covers his mouth while speaking with Jordan Ayew. According to the new rules, this should have resulted in a red card. © IMAGO/Allstar Picture Library Ltd
Jude Bellingham made headlines during England’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Ghana, and for a good reason. At least one incident during the match warranted a red card.
Following an exhilarating 4-2 victory over Croatia in their World Cup opener, the enthusiasm for the England national team quickly dissipated. Their second group match resulted in a forgettable goalless draw against Ghana.
Despite the lackluster performance, Jude Bellingham was named Player of the Match. However, controversy surrounds his on-field conduct that could have led to a red card. During an exchange with Ghana’s Jordan Ayew, Bellingham was seen covering his mouth with his hand—this action is a clear violation of the newly implemented game rules!
The Red Card Precedent
Since the beginning of the World Cup, this particular gesture has been punishable by a red card. Paraguayan player Miguel Almirón was already a victim of this new rule when he covered his mouth during a match against Turkey. He was subsequently sent off and banned for one match.
The impetus for establishing this rule arose from a scandal in the previous Champions League season, where Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni allegedly made a racist remark towards Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior while covering his mouth. This incident led to a significant suspension with three games under probation.
The current World Cup has seen various new rules implemented. Alongside the stricter management of this hand-over-mouth gesture, the VAR also received expanded powers. Until now, referees have generally upheld these new rules effectively. However, it seems that referee Said Martínez may have overlooked the incident with Bellingham, or the VAR team simply did not catch it.
Debates Surrounding the New Rules
Opinions among TV experts regarding the new red card rule have been divided. In a recent discussion on ZDF, former footballer Per Mertesacker and Christoph Kramer debated the implications of the Almirón incident. Kramer emphasized the importance of awareness for all players involved in the World Cup, while also defending that covering one’s mouth is a routine action for players. Conversely, Mertesacker firmly disagreed, marking it as an unacceptable gesture.
Kramer reflected on his playing days, suggesting that he could have easily faced a red card for merely asking for a player’s jersey in a similar manner. Despite his arguments, he ultimately acknowledged the rule’s validity.
Returning to Bellingham, we still don’t know what was said between him and Ayew; it could have been a harmless exchange. However, the fact remains that his action of covering his mouth raises questions about the intent behind the dialogue. If referees are to consistently apply these new rules as they have thus far, Bellingham should have indeed been shown a red card.
Tensions in the Tunnel
The Player of the Match generated more headlines when tensions flared just before halftime. Reports indicate that Bellingham clashed with Ghana’s assistant coach, John Paintsil, as they headed down the tunnel, exchanging heated words.
Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, also expressed his frustration, stating he intended to speak to Bellingham about his aggressive tackling. Their exchange subsequently turned heated with exchanged expletives.
Bellingham’s Disappointment
Despite being awarded Player of the Match, Bellingham seemed disillusioned. He later told the BBC, “I didn’t deserve this award. It should have gone to one of their players who defended so well.”
As the final group stage games approach, England remains in a tense position. Both the “Three Lions” and Ghana sit on four points, while Croatia has three after their victory over Panama. If England defeats Panama in their next match, they could secure their place at the top of the group. Bellingham, who should have faced suspension, will likely be in the starting lineup once more.
