Although the United States kicked off their FIFA World Cup campaign Friday night, President Donald Trump wasn't in attendance at SoFi Stadium.
The United States didn't disappoint the home crowd in California, securing a 4-1 win over Paraguay. Despite only playing in the first half, Christian Pulisic left his mark by setting up two goals for the Americans. Talented striker Folarin Balogun also came up huge for the U.S. national team, securing his first two World Cup goals.
"Yeah, it was definitely a statement, three goals in the first half opening game," Balogun said. "I felt like it was a real statement, and that's what you wanted to do. So I'm very, very delighted with the overall performance, especially the first half."
Before the U.S. stepped on the pitch for Friday's game, Trump called manager Mauricio Pochettino and gave him some words of encouragement.
“I just called to say you’re a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach,” Trump told Pochettino. “I know about your record, your success and how great the players are. I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way so I just wish you a lot of luck.”
© Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images.
Will Trump make an appearance at the World Cup?
According to NBC News, the president of the United States is expected to attend the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on Jul 19. However, those plans could change over the next month.
"A White House official confirmed to NBC News White House was “holding it” on Trump’s schedule," Monica Alba reported. "He attended the Club World Cup final at the same venue last summer."
The United States, meanwhile, will return to action June 19 to take on Australia. Their final group stage match will be on June 25 against Türkiye.
