England Demands Penalty for Harry Kane in World Cup Match Against Congo, Referee Rejects Call

During the Round of 32 match at the 2026 World Cup, England faced an early and surprising deficit against Congo. The game intensified from the start, culminating in a controversial moment in the 42nd minute involving England striker Harry Kane. Kane was played through on goal, reached the ball before the Congolese goalkeeper, and then fell inside the penalty area. Kane and the English team immediately appealed for a penalty, claiming he was fouled. However, the referee dismissed the claim, stating that Kane had jumped onto the grass before any contact occurred. After a lengthy review, the VAR team supported the referee's decision, sparking widespread anger among English fans and commentators.

The Spanish sports outlet tletico condemned the decision, calling it a clear penalty and accusing the referee of injustice against England. Former England striker Alan Shearer also criticized the call, asserting that there was definite contact and that the goalkeeper's actions justified a penalty. Shearer explained that when a goalkeeper rushes out with his hands, the attacker has the right to initiate contact and fall. The incident has fueled debate over whether Kane was genuinely fouled or if he simulated the fall before contact. The controversy remains a focal point of discussion as England seeks to recover from the early setback in the tournament.