“I Am Sorry for Controversial Penalty Against Ghana; I Love Ghanaians” – American Referee Expresses Regret

Though at first glance, it appeared to be a genuine penalty, subsequent replays proved that there was minimal contact from Ghana’s defender, Mohammed Salisu and that Ronaldo appeared to have gone down too easily.

The Moroccan-born American official refused to have a second look on the VAR monitor and judged Mohammed Salisu’s challenge on Cristiano Ronaldo as a foul. The referee has expressed regret at the penalty he awarded Portugal through Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to the referee Ismail Elfath, he was surprised by the criticism which he admits was unexpected and has also taken note of the contrary opinions expressed by renowned referees and pundits.

He went ahead by saying that; he has nothing against Ghana and that he loves Ghana because he used to play football with Ghanaians.

The reactions around the world was immense and mind blowing;