Video footage circulating on social media and reports from several international media outlets showed Spence keeping his hand in his pocket as Partey approached during the customary pre-match handshake line. The Ghana midfielder appeared surprised by the interaction before continuing down the line to greet other England players.

The incident occurred ahead of Tuesday's goalless draw between England and Ghana in Boston, a result that left both sides well placed in the race for a place in the knockout stage.

While neither Spence nor the England Football Association has commented on the incident, the moment quickly generated widespread discussion among football fans and pundits. Reports indicated that most of England's players, including captain Harry Kane, exchanged handshakes or greetings with Partey before the match.

The attention surrounding Partey's participation in the tournament stems from ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. The Ghana international has been charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, allegations he has denied. His legal case remains before the courts, and no verdict has been reached.

Following the match, England manager Thomas Tuchel was prevented from answering questions about the incident, citing legal reasons, while Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz urged observers to focus on football rather than off-field controversies.

Although the exact reason behind Spence's apparent decision remains unclear, the moment has become one of the defining off-field stories from an otherwise hard-fought World Cup encounter between England and Ghana.

Photo credit: England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup photos