England beat Iran 6-2 in their opening match at the World Cup in Qatar
(Picture: Getty Images)England were too cowardly to make a statement with an armband against Iran but Gareth Southgate’s bravery was rewarded with a statement performance as his side began the World Cup with a 6-2 dismantling of Iran.
All of Southgate’s big tactical and selection decisions were vindicated at the Khalifa International Stadium, as Jude Bellingham, a Bukayo Saka double, Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish earned England a routine victory which puts them firmly in control of Group B.
