Trump hails ‘great player’ Harry Kane after England’s dramatic World Cup win over Mexico
England captain Harry Kane appears to have emerged from the Three Lions’ World Cup last-16 victory over Mexico with a new supporter – US president Donald Trump.
Kane scored what turned out to be England’s winner from the penalty spot in the 60th minute of the game at the Azteca in Mexico City as Thomas Tuchel’s side dug deep to book their place in the quarter-finals where they will face Erling Haaland’s Norway.
A quick attack from midfielder Jude Bellingham put England ahead in the first half, while Julián Quiñones scored for the tournament hosts just before the break.
Bayern Munich striker Kane increased England’s advantage by scoring from the penalty spot after Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon.
However, Kane then conceded a penalty by kicking Brian Gutierrez in the England penalty area, and Raul Jimenez halved the lead to 3-2 in the 69th minute.
Down to 10 men after right-back Jarell Quansah’s red card in the 54th minute, England held firm under intense pressure from Mexico and managed to achieve one of the most extraordinary results in their history – arguably their best at the World Cup since 1966.
Amidst the many rounds of applause for Kane’s team, Mr Trump said he was impressed by the England captain, who scored his sixth goal of this tournament – his 14th of his World Cup career.
“England’s Harry Kane is a GREAT actor!!!” the US president wrote on the Truth Social platform on Monday morning. he wrote.
But this is not his first intervention in the World Cup, which is being held partly in the United States.
Mr Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of a US striker’s suspension ahead of his controversial suspension.
Folarin Balogun was ejected from the game in the USA’s last 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina after it was revealed that he accidentally contacted defender Tarik Muharemovic.
On Sunday, the FIFA disciplinary committee announced that Article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code had been applied to postpone the red card; This means Balogun will serve a one-match suspension if he commits a similar offense within the next 12 months.
Trump welcomed the news, writing on Truth Social: “Thank you Fifa for doing the right thing and reversing a great injustice!”
The Associated Press reported that Mr. Trump called FIFA boss Gianni Infantino after the game and asked for the card to be reviewed.
