Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Harry Kane Donald Trump golf talk became an unexpected subplot before England’s FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against Norway, after the England captain confirmed he played a round with the United States president in Florida around 18 months ago.

Kane spoke to reporters before England’s last-eight meeting with Norway, a match that carries major weight as two of the tournament’s top strikers prepare to face off.

For more World Cup tactical coverage, read Argentina vs Switzerland Tactical Plan: How Lionel Scaloni’s Side Can Reach the World Cup Semifinal.

Kane Confirms Golf Meeting With Trump

"I played alright to be honest," Kane said.

"We played about 18 months ago. He invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach [Florida].

"So when the president invites you somewhere … It was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him, and to play golf with him.

"His golf is pretty good, to be honest. I hope I can play golf as well as him when I'm his age, that's for sure. So, [it was] a unique experience. I'm just grateful he invited me down to play."

Donald Trump had already spoken warmly about Kane, calling him a "GREAT player" on Truth Social after England’s 3-2 win over Mexico.

"I think Kane is a great player," Trump said.

"See, I played golf with him and I like him a lot. He's a good golfer. He's really great."

England Focus Turns Back To Norway

The story added a lighter note before a tense quarterfinal, but England’s focus now shifts back to the field and the threat posed by Norway striker Erling Haaland.

Kane has scored six goals at this FIFA World Cup, while Haaland has seven in his first tournament campaign. Both trail Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi, who have scored eight each.

The official FIFA World Cup match centre lists Norway against England as a quarterfinal at Miami Stadium.

For England, the key will be service into Kane and control in midfield, while Norway’s direct supply into Haaland gives them a clear route to goal. In knockout football, one clean chance for either striker may be enough.