“The referee gave Ronaldo a gift.” – Ghana coach, Otto Addo

Ghanaian head coach, Otto Addo has criticised the decision of the central referee to award Portugal a penalty in their World Cup 3-2 defeat.

Moroccan-born American referee, Ismail Elfath awarded Portugal a penalty in the 63rd minute when Ronaldo was tripped by Mohammed Salisu inside the penalty area.

The 37-year-old who has been without a club since Tuesday, 22nd of November, when his contract at Manchester United was terminated by mutual consent, stepped up and converted from the spot.

Reacting to the penalty, Ghanaian coach, Otto Addo said ; “The referee gave a penalty which was not a penalty. Everyone saw that. Why? Because it’s Ronaldo or something?

“If somebody scores a goal, congratulations. But this was really a gift. A special gift from the referee.” Addo said.

Otto Addo’s men equalised through their captain, Andre Ayew, who fired in from close range when the squeezed through the legs of Portuguese Danilo Pereira before he fired in.

Fernando Santos’ men responded quickly by netting twice in under three minutes to regain their lead. João Felix delicate lob was complemented by Rafael Leão’s clean right foot finish, with both goals assisted by Manchester United Bruno Fernandes.

With Ronaldo’s 65th penalty goal, Ronaldo became the first ever player to score at five different World Cup tournaments. The win also ended Portugal’s run of three opening World Cup matches without a win.