England's Spence refuses handshake with Ghana's Partey amid rape allegations at World Cup

Pre-match incident

Djed Spence kept his right hand in the pocket of his tracksuit top as Thomas Partey walked past during the pre-match ritual at Boston Stadium. Television coverage cut away at the crucial moment, but footage circulating on social media appeared to show the gesture. Partey briefly glanced back at the Tottenham defender before continuing, while all other England players reportedly shook hands or fist-bumped the former Arsenal midfielder.

The Football Association had declined to issue guidance to the squad on whether to greet Partey. The snub occurred after British media had openly debated whether any England player would publicly distance himself from the Ghanaian.

Partey's legal situation

Partey is scheduled to go on trial next year at Southwark Crown Court, where he faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He was initially charged last year with five counts of rape and one of sexual assault; two further rape charges were added later. The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2020 and 2022, when Partey was at Arsenal. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his lawyer has stated Partey welcomes the opportunity to clear his name.

Canada denied Partey entry

The 33-year-old missed Ghana's opening World Cup fixture against Panama in Toronto after Canadian immigration officials refused him entry. A judge rejected his appeal. In the United States, however, he was permitted to play, though he was booed by sections of the crowd during player introductions and whenever he touched the ball early in the match.

Queiroz hits back at English fans

“Unfortunately they bring their politics and all these issues into the game. It is our duty to ignore it. That's football, that's entertainment. But we knew we couldn't expect anything else from English fans.”

Queiroz added that he respected the English supporters, but expressed hope they would display more moral conviction on other world issues. Ghana held England to a 0-0 draw.