US President Donald Trump praised Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Kane before the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina. Speaking at an event in New York on Friday, he described Messi’s assist in the semifinal against England as nearly flawless and noted that elite players possess exceptional qualities. Trump also called Ronaldo a fine athlete and person, commended Kane’s ability, and suggested England erred by shifting Kane to defense after taking the lead. He recalled watching Messi’s pass that proved decisive. England’s manager had made defensive changes that allowed Argentina to control possession and score twice late in a 2-1 defeat. Argentina and Spain reached the final after victories over England and France respectively. Messi leads the scoring charts entering the title match.
