‘I didn’t deserve it’ – Bellingham says Ghana player should have won MOTM

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has admitted that he “didn’t deserve” his Player of the Match award after the Three Lions’ 0-0 draw with Ghana, suggesting the honour should have gone to one of the Black Stars players instead.

Bellingham was named the official Player of the Match following a dominant midfield display, but the Real Madrid star felt that Ghana’s defensive resilience deserved greater recognition.

“I didn’t deserve it. It probably should have gone to one of their lads,” Bellingham said after the match.

His comments come after Ghana produced a resolute defensive performance to hold England to a goalless draw, with goalkeeper Benjamin Asare making six crucial saves to keep his second consecutive clean sheet of the tournament.

The Black Stars were disciplined and compact throughout, frustrating England’s star-studded attack and earning a vital point that puts them on the brink of the knockout stages for the first time since 2010.

Bellingham’s humility in acknowledging Ghana’s performance has been widely praised on social media, with many fans commending the 22-year-old for his sportsmanship.

For Ghana, the recognition from one of England’s best players is a testament to their defensive masterclass and a sign that their performances are earning respect on the world stage.

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