England started off their 2022 World Cup campaign with an impressive 6-2 win over Iran. The Three Lions started scoring right from the get go and were able to keep the momentum going for the remainder of the game to take three important first points.
Bukayo Saka was named the man of the match for scoring a brace in his first outing at the biggest stage. Alireza Beiranvand, the Iran goalkeeper, had to be substituted off only 20 minutes into the game, after suffering an injury to his face, with his nose bleeding profusely.
England start World Cup campaign in style
Raheem Sterling, Jack Grealish, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford were the other players to score against Iran. Bellingham became the one to open the scoring in the 35th minute, and the goals followed frequently afterwards.
Mehdi Taremi was able to score a consolation in the 65th minute. He doubled up with a successful penalty 13 minutes into extra time, conceded by John Stones.
Iran were always the underdogs heading into the game, but the margin of defeat might be a huge blow to their morale. England are next in action against USA while Iran face Wales in their next match.
