Trump offers words of encouragement to US World Cup squad ahead of inaugural game

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President Donald Trump called the US World Cup squad ahead of their debut match against Paraguay, the team said Friday.

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In a video shared on social media, the US Soccer Men’s National Team said the 79-year-old leader called Thursday night with a message of support.

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Andrew Giuliani, the head of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, can be seen speaking with Trump on speakerphone, telling the president: “I’m standing in front of 26 champions and a great coach,” before handing the phone to US head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

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“I just called to say you’re a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach, and you’re all about your record and your success, and I know how great the players are. I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way,” Trump said.

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“I just want to wish you a lot of luck,” he added.

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“Thank you so much for your support, Mr. President,” responded Pochettino.

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Team USA faces off with Paraguay in Los Angeles for the first game in the tournament held on US soil in 32 years.

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Trump will not attend the match on Friday, but told an AFP reporter earlier this week that he will attend the World Cup in some capacity.

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FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has previously said he expects Trump to present the trophy to the winning team at the final on July 19.

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