US President Trump criticises England's tactics: Kane used defensively
Donald Trump has joined criticism of England's World Cup semi-final tactics, saying Harry Kane was wrongly deployed as a defensive player. He also commented on the Folarin Balogun red card controversy and praised FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
US President Donald Trump has criticised England manager Thomas Tuchel's tactics in the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, questioning the decision to use striker Harry Kane in a defensive role in the second half. England lost 2-1 after a late Argentina comeback, with Tuchel switching to a back five and making defensive substitutions after Anthony Gordon's goal.
Trump said England may have made a mistake by turning Kane into a defensive player. "We got to be a little offensive, right," he said, though he admitted he knows little about football. Tuchel dismissed Trump's remarks during a press conference.
Trump also addressed the case of US striker Folarin Balogun, who received a straight red card but had his automatic one-match ban suspended for 12 months by FIFA, sparking controversy. Trump revealed he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to recommend a review, while Infantino previously denied political interference, insisting the disciplinary committee is independent.
The president's comments have fuelled suspicions of political meddling in FIFA decisions, undermining trust in the tournament's integrity. Trump and Infantino praised each other at Trump Tower, calling the World Cup the most successful sporting event ever. Despite controversies over visa issues, commercialisation, and the Balogun case, Infantino remains confident thanks to FIFA's projected record revenues of $9bn, which secure him widespread support and likely re-election next year.
