England’s World Cup draw against Ghana sparked attention both on and off the pitch after a Ghanaian sorcerer claimed he had placed a curse on England captain Harry Kane and then “released” him after the match.Nana Kwaku Bonsam, a self-proclaimed spiritualist who earlier claimed responsibility for a knee injury sustained by Cristiano Ronaldo before the 2014 World Cup, he posted a video after Kane missed a late chance in Boston.Bonsam said he had worked to stop Kane from scoring against Ghana but insisted it meant no serious damage.“I am the most powerful spiritualist in the whole world. Now, I have to release Harry Kane so that, his next match, he can score,” said Bonsam. “Harry, I’m coming to visit you. No offense. We’re friends.”Take a look:Before the match, he had said: “I worked on Harry Kane. I showed what I am capable of before, so I know what work must be done to prevent him. I am very famous for my predictions.”The comments also prompted a response from illusionist Uri Geller, who promised to counter any negative energy directed at the English striker.While the strange curse story grabbed the headlines, England’s performance was much debated. Former defender Micah Richards described the display as “a Southgate performance”, saying the team lacked energy and creativity compared to their opening win over Croatia.Former England stars Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Joe Cole, Gary Neville and Roy Keane widely agreed that England were lucky not to lose after escaping a penalty decision and a possible red card for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.Despite the criticism, most pundits urged calm, noting that England remains well placed in the tournament. Manager Thomas Tuchel and his team now turn their attention to a crucial final group stage match against Panama.
