LUIS Godinho, the referee, is facing criticism for issuing a yellow card to Harry Kane, the England captain, during England’s Euro 2024 qualifier win against Malta on Friday. In the match, an own-goal from Enrico Pepe and a goal from Kane secured a 2-0 victory for England at Wembley.
Kane was fouled in the box by Henry Bonello after the goalkeeper gave away possession to the host. However, instead of awarding a penalty, referee Godinho blew for a free-kick and booked Kane for simulation. Despite the use of VAR, the on-field decision was not overturned.
Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermaine Defoe expressed his disagreement with the referee’s decision, stating that he initially thought it was a penalty and that upon reviewing the incident, there was clear contact. Chelsea star Joe Cole also supported Defoe’s view, commenting that Kane had manipulated the situation, which still warranted a penalty according to the rules of the game. Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott added that he did not believe it was a yellow card offense, but acknowledged that if a penalty had been given, it would have been justifiable.
The contentious decision made by referee Luis Godinho has sparked widespread discussion and debate within the football community.
