Spain's World Cup winner Joan Capdevila has been refused entry to the United States ahead of the final and has appealed to Donald Trump for help. The 2010 champion posted on social media: 'I NEED HELP @realDonaldTrump! They just told me that I can't travel to the final with my kids because my ESTA has been denied.' He added that he was 'excited to be there with all my 2010 teammates' and cannot believe he will miss the moment with his children.
US Backs Argentina in Falklands Banner Row
The United States government will oppose any suspension for Argentina players during a FIFA investigation into the display of a banner regarding the Falkland Islands. World Cup chief Andrew Giuliani insisted Argentina were exercising their right to freedom of expression. The banner, which referenced the disputed islands, has sparked controversy, but the US has sided with Argentina.
Infantino Hails 'Greatest Cultural Event'
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hailed the tournament as 'the greatest human, social and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed'. Speaking at Trump Tower in New York, he thanked Trump and said: 'This has not just been – and is not just – the greatest FIFA World Cup of all time.'
Trump Criticises Tuchel Tactics
Donald Trump took a swipe at Thomas Tuchel's strategy against Argentina, ridiculing the Three Lions for converting Harry Kane into a defender. 'I think they perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player, but what do I know about soccer?' Trump quipped. Tuchel retorted: 'Do you use Donald Trump as your witness for the case, or? I was just asking.' He added: 'If it's easier if someone takes the blame, I take the blame.'
Trump Claims He Stopped Controversy
Trump also asserted that his phone call to Infantino ensured no controversy after Folarin Balogun's red card. 'It's so much better the way it worked out because there's no controversy,' he said. However, major fallout occurred when Balogun was not banned for the USA's clash with Belgium.
Messi and Yamal Photo Resurfaces
Lionel Messi discussed the photograph of him bathing a baby Lamine Yamal: 'I took a picture with him when he was a baby ... the fact that we're both playing in the World Cup now is crazy.' Yamal is expected to be available for the final after returning to training following a day off. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said: 'He's fine, there are no problems with him. He took a heavy knock, but he coped with the match perfectly.'
Saliba Injury
William Saliba is expected to miss out for France after Didier Deschamps disclosed that discomfort became 'unbearable' for the defender. The Arsenal star was substituted during the semi-final against Spain.
