Antoine Semenyo appeared to breach FIFA rules when he wore grip socks of a different color to his country’s all-yellow kit during Ghana’s World Cup match against England. The Manchester City player took to the pitch wearing white grip socks, which were clearly visible between the socks and boots, but officials found no violation.
FIFA regulations require that additional clothing items must match the color of the kit, as formally stipulated in Article 4, Section 2 of the IFAB Law. It specifies that “the tape or material applied to the outside of the sock must match the color of the part of the sock it covers.”
Former Premier League referee and PGMOL chief Keith Hackett weighed in on the issue after it was brought up to him by Photos of the 26-year-old from Ghana’s opening game against Panama reveal he was also wearing white sock grips, yet again evading sanction.
Had Bellingham been sent off, it could have been even more damaging for England, with Ghana defending admirably as both teams were locked in a 0-0 stalemate. Heading into the final round, the only draw between the two teams is goal difference, with Ghana facing Croatia, while Thomas Tuchel’s side face Panama, who have already been eliminated.
Despite dropping points, England are the favorites to finish top of Group L, and will advance to the Round of 32 against the third-placed team from Groups E, H, I, J or K.
On current form, England’s next knock-out opponents are likely to be Mexico, with the game to be played at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
However, Tuesday’s performance against the Black Stars was a timely reminder that England cannot look too far ahead as their immediate priority is to pick up the three points against Panama. This result should be enough to see England through as group winners.
