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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Sports

White House backs England to win World Cup

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The White House has expressed support for England to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the United States' elimination.
  • A US representative cited England's potential victory as a "great storyline" during America's 250th anniversary celebrations.
  • England faces defending champions Argentina in the semi-finals, with the winner advancing to play either France or Spain.

The White House has publicly backed England to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the host nation United States' exit from the tournament. Andrew Giuliani, a representative for US President Donald Trump on World Cup matters, suggested that an English victory would provide a compelling narrative.

If the United States canโ€™t win on our 250th birthday, then a great storyline would be the English coming to America and winning during our anniversary celebrations.

โ€” Andrew GiulianiUS representative on World Cup matters, explaining the White House's support for England.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Giuliani stated, "If the United States canโ€™t win on our 250th birthday, then a great storyline would be the English coming to America and winning during our anniversary celebrations." He noted England's 60-year wait for a World Cup title, calling it a "beautiful victory" if they were to triumph.

Giuliani expressed confidence in England's chances, identifying them as one of the top remaining teams. He also mentioned that President Trump has been closely following England captain Harry Kane's performance, highlighting the striker as a key player capable of leading the team to victory. Giuliani recalled playing golf with Trump and former England captain Wayne Rooney, underscoring the US president's keen interest in football.

Itโ€™s been 60 years of hurt, I gather, for England, so that would be a beautiful victory for them if they won the tournament.

โ€” Andrew GiulianiUS representative on World Cup matters, commenting on England's long wait for a title.

This endorsement comes after Kane himself revealed he had played golf with Trump in Florida in late 2024, describing the experience as "pretty surreal." England is currently preparing for its toughest challenge yet: a semi-final match against defending champions Argentina. The Three Lions reached this stage after defeating Norway, while Argentina advanced by beating Switzerland.

I do absolutely think England can go all the way. They are one of the top teams left now.

โ€” Andrew GiulianiUS representative on World Cup matters, expressing confidence in England's chances.

England's quest for a second World Cup title, their first since 1966, faces a significant hurdle in the upcoming match. The winner of the England-Argentina semi-final will proceed to the final to face either France or Spain.

I hope I can play golf as good as him when Iโ€™m his age.

โ€” Harry KaneEngland captain, commenting on playing golf with US President Donald Trump.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.