Controversial Penalty Decision Sparks Debate After England's World Cup Victory
Penalty Controversy in England's World Cup Match
Atlanta [US], July 2: A contentious penalty decision involving England's captain Harry Kane has ignited a heated discussion in the football community, with starkly opposing views from former England striker Michael Owen and seasoned Premier League referee Graham Scott.
This incident took place during England's intense 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, where the Three Lions made a remarkable comeback.
The pivotal moment occurred in the 43rd minute when Kane charged towards the goal, skillfully evading DR Congo's goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, only to seemingly be fouled as the keeper attempted a sliding tackle.
Jordanian referee Adham Mohammad Tumah Makhadmeh promptly dismissed England's fervent appeals. A quick Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, overseen by Khamis Al Marri, upheld the original decision.
According to the VAR protocol for the tournament, the review team determined there was no 'clear and obvious error,' concluding that there was uncertainty regarding whether Mpasi's contact was the main reason for Kane's fall.
This decision triggered a storm on social media, particularly inciting a furious response from former England international Michael Owen.
Owen expressed his outrage on X, stating, 'What chance have you got? If that’s not a penalty on Kane, I don’t know what is. Absolute disgrace.'
In contrast, Graham Scott, a former Premier League official, defended the referee's decision, arguing that Kane's actions weakened his case.
Scott elaborated on X, stating, 'Harry Kane only has himself to blame: by dragging his left foot into the onrushing goalkeeper, he created doubt in the referee’s mind, and his penalty claim was waved away. Initially, England fans – including myself – were undoubtedly shouting 'penalty' at their screens, and many referees would have concurred.'
'There is a strong argument for a penalty, as goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi undeniably made significant contact with Kane. However, Kane went to great lengths to ensure that contact occurred, planting both feet and falling dramatically – all signals to the referee that the England striker was exaggerating. Kudos to Makhadmeh for remaining firm. Had Kane continued running normally, he might have been fouled anyway – earning the penalty he sought – or he could have reached the ball and scored into the empty net. I wish he had.'
The penalty drama unfolded during a tense first half for England, who fell behind early when Brian Cipenga scored a historic opener for DR Congo in their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout match.
Despite controlling possession, England struggled against a well-organized Congolese defense until manager Thomas Tuchel made tactical adjustments. On the hour mark, he brought on Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka, which significantly shifted the game's momentum.
Kane eventually broke through in the 75th minute and completed his brace in the 86th minute, securing a 2-1 victory and advancing England to the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico. Nevertheless, the debate surrounding the first-half penalty decision continued to dominate discussions after the match.