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England’s goalless World Cup draw against Ghana sparked attention both on and off the pitch after a Ghanaian witch doctor claimed he had placed a curse on England captain Harry Kane and later “released” it following the match.Nana Kwaku Bonsam, a self-proclaimed spiritualist who previously claimed responsibility for a knee injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo before the 2014 World Cup, posted a video after Kane missed a late chance in Boston.Bonsam said he had been working to stop Kane from scoring against Ghana but insisted he meant no serious harm.“I am the most powerful spiritualist in the whole world. Now, I am going to release Harry Kane so that, his next match, he can score,” Bonsam said. “Harry, I will come and visit you. Don’t be offended. We are friends.”Watch:Before the match, he had claimed: “I am working on Harry Kane. I have shown what I am capable of before, so I know what work I must do to stop him. I am very famous for my predictions.”The comments even prompted a response from illusionist Uri Geller, who vowed to counter any negative energy directed at the England striker.While the bizarre curse story grabbed headlines, England’s performance was heavily 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 largely agreed that England were fortunate not to lose after escaping a penalty decision and a possible red card for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.Despite criticism, most pundits urged calm, noting that England remain well placed in the tournament. Manager Thomas Tuchel and his side now turn their attention to a crucial final group-stage match against Panama.
