Trump Questions Kane's Defensive Role in England Loss

President Donald Trump said England made a mistake by shifting Harry Kane into a defensive role during their 2-1 World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. Trump spoke at a reception at Trump Tower on Friday. He said Kane had been "fantastic" but questioned the tactical change after England took the lead through Anthony Gordon.

"I think they perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player," Trump said. Argentina scored twice late to reach Sunday's final against Spain. BBC Sport reported that several England players were disappointed with the instructions after taking the lead.

Pundits and supporters have also questioned the approach. Tuchel dismissed Trump's comments when asked at a news conference.

Trump also discussed his call to Fifa president Gianni Infantino about USA striker Folarin Balogun's red card. Balogun, 25, faced an automatic one-match ban after fouling Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic. Fifa suspended the ban for 12 months, allowing Balogun to play in the last-16 tie against Belgium.

Trump said he told Infantino he wanted to "wage a complaint" and described the outcome as free of controversy. "You made another great decision if you think about it, but you'll never get credit for it," Trump said.

Infantino said the World Cup had exceeded expectations and called it the greatest sporting event in history. He credited the United States for uniting the world during the tournament. " Infantino said Fifa is projected to generate record revenues of $9 billion this year.

He faces re-election next year.

“The American dream, Mr President, came to reality. We united the world in America.”