Black Stars Players Call Out Match Officials for Failing to Check Penalties

As the Black Stars prepare to face Croatia in their final group game on Saturday, Antoine Semenyo has expressed frustration with the match officials after two incidents of possible penalties were ignored in their draw against England. The Ghana forward believes his teammates need to be more aggressive with the officials.

Speaking ahead of the final group game, Semenyo said, "Funny you mention that because we actually talked about it in training today. As players, we need to dangle around the referee and complain." He was right next to the incident when Ezri Konsa fouled Prince Adu Kwabena in the box, but the referee ignored the incident and instead awarded an offside penalty to the Manchester City star.

This is not the first time the match officials have failed to check and review possible penalties for the Black Stars. In the first game against England, a potential penalty was also ignored after Jordan Ayew was fouled in the box. Semenyo believes that his teammates need to be more vocal in the game and complain to the referee about any fouls.

"Players need to stay down a bit longer if they're fouled, and obviously the coach is on the touchline putting pressure on the fourth official," Semenyo said. "It's frustrating because they've now failed to check it on two occasions."

The Black Stars currently sit on four points together with England in Group L, and a win or draw against Croatia could keep them in second position if the Three Lions defeat Panama in the other game.

Semenyo's comments come as the Black Stars look to bounce back from their disappointing draw against England. The team has shown great spirit and determination throughout the tournament, and Semenyo is confident that they can make a comeback against Croatia.

"We need to be more aggressive around the officials," Semenyo said.

The final group game against Croatia will be a crucial one for the Black Stars as they look to secure a spot in the knockout stage of the tournament. Semenyo and his teammates will need to be at their best if they are to overcome the Croatian team and make it to the next round.