White House let slip they want one nation to win World Cup more than rivals | Football | Sport

England have a new supporter in the White House, with Donald Trump adviser Andrew Giuliani hoping for a Three Lions triumph next weekend. Thomas Tuchel’s side must first overcome Argentina to win a place in the final, but the executive director of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 wants to see them go all the way.

With the United States now long gone from the tournament, the White House official has been lured in by the narrative of England arriving in America to claim victory on the 250th anniversary of the US’s independence. The 40-year-old fancies England’s chances despite them not tasting success on the global stage since 1966.

Argentina and then Spain or France still lie in the way of World Cup glory for Thomas Tuchel’s squad. Giuliani is confident Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham can guide the team to success.

“You know, if the United States can’t win on our 250th birthday, then a great storyline would be the English coming to America and winning during our anniversary celebrations,” Giuliani told the Daily Mail.

“‘It’s been 60 years of hurt, I gather, for England, so that would be a beautiful victory for them if they won the tournament. I do absolutely think England can go all the way, they are one of the top teams left now.”

“Harry Kane is the number one goal scorer for the England team, and if they are going to win the tournament, he will be the main reason,” he continued. “He is one of the main players on the team, and he and Jude Bellingham are fine athletes.

“England strike me as being an exceedingly well-balanced team you have to be confident and what the coach has to drill into them is that they have the potential to win.”

England captain Kane is a particular favourite of US President Trump, who is scheduled to participate in the trophy presentation on Sunday. Trump has previously described the former Tottenham striker as a “great player” and a “great guy” on social media.

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The England captain enjoyed a round of golf with Trump in 2024 after receiving an invitation during his time in Palm Beach, Florida. “I played all right to be honest, but 18 months ago he invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach,” said Kane.

“So, when the president invites you somewhere, it was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him and obviously play golf with him.”

Kane continued: “His golf is pretty good to be honest with you. I hope I can play golf as good as him when I’m his age, that’s for sure. A unique experience, but I was just grateful that he invited me to play.”

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