England Bellingham says he didn't deserve Man of the Match

England midfielder Jude Bellingham expressed surprise and humility after being named the official Man of the Match following his team's 0-0 draw with Ghana in a FIFA World Cup group stage match in Boston. The Real Madrid star, who was substituted in the 73rd minute, stated he felt the award should have gone to a Ghanaian defender.

The result, played on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, saw England dominate possession but struggle to break down a disciplined and deep-lying Ghanaian defense. The match produced the first half of the tournament in which neither team registered a shot on target. England's best chance fell to captain Harry Kane in the closing stages, but he fired over from close range after a teammate's header had struck the post.

Bellingham, a standout performer in England's opening 4-2 win over Croatia, was candid in his post-match assessment. He told FIFA's in-house media that he did not deserve the fan-voted honor, suggesting it recognized Ghana's defensive effort. He also referenced a pattern of "second-game fever" for England, who have now drawn their second group match in four consecutive major tournaments.

Teammates echoed the sentiment of frustration mixed with...