During a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in New York on 17/7, US President Donald Trump commented on England's loss to Argentina on 15/7 and questioned coach Thomas Tuchel's player deployment strategy.

"You have a great player in England, someone I played golf with, you know? That's Harry, he played exceptionally well. I think perhaps they made a mistake pulling him back to play defensively", Trump said, referring to England captain Harry Kane, with whom he played golf in Florida 18 months ago.

President Donald Trump at Trump Tower in New York on 17/7. Photo: AP

The American President continued, stating that in the 15/7 match, England had led Argentina but then allowed their "best player playing defensively".

"We should have attacked, shouldn't we? But no, I won't say that. What do I know about coaching? It was an unusual situation, but Harry is still a great person", he added.

England coach Tuchel faced heavy criticism for withdrawing two forwards and bringing in defenders during the final 30 minutes of the match against Argentina. This move forced England into deep defense, even with Kane remaining on the field. Lionel Messi capitalized on the space, assisting two passes that led to two goals for Argentina, securing the South American team's spot in the final.

Despite a wave of criticism, coach Tuchel affirmed his tactical decision on 17/7.

"I don't regret my decision. I am trying to help the team", he stated.

England will face France in the World Cup third-place match at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, on 18/7 (4 a.m. on 19/7 Hanoi time). While often considered a "match no one wants to be in" by players and coaches, the third-place match remains a World Cup tradition. FIFA has maintained this match since the 1934 World Cup to fully determine the tournament's rankings, rather than joint third place or using tie-breakers to decide third and fourth.

Ngoc Anh (AFP, Reuters)