Arsenal star Aaron Ramsdale watched from the substitutes bench as England got off to the perfect start in the World Cup with a 6-2 win against Iran.
Bukayo Saka was chosen to start ahead of Phil Foden in attack alongside Chelsea duo Raheem Sterling and Mason Mount, as well as Tottenham star Harry Kane. Borussia Dortmund talent Jude Bellingham opened the scoring for England with a brilliant header after a slow start in Doha.
Saka had threatened early on before he grabbed the Three Lions' second with a fine volleyed finish into the top corner, becoming England's second-youngest goal scorer at a major tournament behind Michael Owen. The Gunners superstar then bagged his second goal, England's fourth, in the 62nd minute with a calm finish into the bottom corner after a mazy run inside the Iran penalty box.
READ MORE: England player ratings vs Iran: Saka and Bellingham impress as England romp to 6-2 World Cup win
Ramsdale has a task on his hands to displace Jordan Pickford as England's No.1 goalkeeper, but he was able to watch his prediction for Saka come true after discussing how the Arsenal star might perform at the World Cup in Qatar. Speaking at an England press conference on Friday ahead of their opening Group B game with Iran on Monday, Ramsdale said: “The kid’s (Saka) a lovely boy, he has time for everyone, he works super hard throughout every week.
"He used all that motivation of criticism but more so the love that everyone gave him. I can’t wait to see him take this stage and thrive over here."
Saka responded to Ramsdale's prediction with two goals as he looks to retain his starting spot for the game against the USA later this week. The Gunners duo were seen embracing after the final whistle following a strong opening performance from the Three Lions as they got off to the perfect start in Qatar.
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