England midfielder Jude Bellingham says a Black Stars player should have been named as winner of the Man of the Match Award and not him.
Bellingham was picked as the winner of the award in Ghana’s goalless draw with England in the second round of games in Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars largely frustrated the Three Lions with a very defensive approach that kept England’s vaunted attack led by captain Harry Kane in check.
Speaking to the BBC after scooping up the award, Bellingham said a player on the Ghana team deserved the award not him.
“I didn’t deserve it, to be honest. It probably should’ve gone to one of their lads who defended so well. Had a couple of moments but couldn’t get in the game. I’m grateful to whoever voted” Bellingham said.
Bellingham played 73 minutes and was replaced with Morgan Rogers in his second game in this year’s World Cup. He scored in England’s 4-2 win over Croatia.
Jude Bellingham says he didn’t deserve to be named Player of the Match in England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana. pic.twitter.com/AUN5AA4Ywa
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) June 23, 2026
