England player refuse shake hand with opponent at World Cup
US: Defender Djed Spence reportedly ignore Thomas Partey during handshake ceremony before England-Ghana match in round two of Group L, World Cup 2026.
At Boston stadium June 23, referee direct 26 Ghana players to shake hands with England side. Djed Spence only player refuse to shake hand with Thomas Partey.
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Ghana vice-captain start match, after miss opening 1-0 win against Panama in Toronto because co-host Canada refuse entry visa. Decision stem from Partey face seven rape charges, one sexual assault charge, await trial in London, England. However, lawyer Jenny Wiltshire say client "continue deny all allegations against him".
England defender Djed Spence (white shirt, left) refuse shake hand with Thomas Partey (yellow shirt, right) in England 0-0 draw against Ghana in round two of Group L, World Cup 2026, at Boston stadium in US, June 23, 2026. Photo: PA
Before match, England FA inform players they can decide handshake with former Arsenal midfielder. Moment players shake hands not fully shown on TV broadcast.
Boos ring out from group of England fans when Thomas Partey name show on big screen at Boston stadium during lineup announcement. However, group of Ghana fans, some wear shirts with Partey name and number 5, cheer loudly to support midfielder born 1993.
At post-match press conference, when ask about Spence action, England manager Thomas Tuchel of England refuse comment due to legal issues.
Thomas Partey (right) celebrate with teammates after Ghana draw England 0-0 in round two of Group L, World Cup 2026 at Boston stadium in US, June 23, 2026. Photo: AP
Partey defensive midfielder, rise to fame play for Atletico Madrid from 2015-2016 season, then move to Arsenal in 2020. In July 2022, Partey arrest relate to sexual assault allegations, but still play for Arsenal until contract expire at end of 2024-2025 season. Currently, he play for Villarreal.
Djed Spence, born 2000, play for Tottenham. Though club almost relegate this season, defender with Jamaican father and Kenyan mother still earn trust from manager Tuchel for call-up, make Spence first Muslim player to play for "Three Lions".
On August 28, Partey and Ghana play decisive match for knockout stage spot in Group L against Croatia. If Ghana finish second, they must go to Toronto – where Partey deny visa.
Decision of Canadian Government condemn by Ghana side as "extremely unfair". Meanwhile, FIFA cannot interfere with national laws.
Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz maintain stance Partey innocent until proven guilty. "This not for me or anyone to judge," 73-year-old manager say. "Let things take natural course. Let river flow. One day, when river reach ocean, we find truth".
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