Bangkok: U.S. President Donald Trump jokingly suggested that the England national team might have made a huge mistake by redirecting captain and striker Harry Kane into a "defensive player" during their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.
According to Thai News Agency, the US leader, speaking at a FIFA reception in New York, commented that Kane, who had played golf with him in early 2025, was a great player. Trump then questioned the late-game tactical approach of England coach Thomas Tuchel, suggesting that while he may not have in-depth knowledge of football, he noticed England's decision to focus on a defensive strategy with their top players.
England faced a 2-1 defeat despite taking an early lead in the second half. This strategic decision led to heavy criticism of Tuchel, whose defensive substitutions created opportunities for Argentina to overturn the game and secure their place in the final against Spain.