England hammered Iran 6-2 in Qatar today to begin their 2022 World Cup campaign with a bang. The Three Lions pulled away in the first half with goals from Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling.
Saka was the star of the show as the Arsenal starlet produced a fine display on the right edge of the attack. He added his second after the break as Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish also scored. Iran pulled a goal back in the second half thanks to Mehdi Taremi’s effort and he grabbed a brace by converting a late penalty.
NationalWorld are in Qatar thanks to Rahman Osman’s presence and the football writer has provided his take on proceedings with his player ratings. The gallery below includes game pictures aplenty from the win too.
9. CM - Mason Mount, 8
The centre on which the explosive England first first was built on. Worked hard and tracked the ball with so much ease. England profited from his relentless pressing | AFP via Getty Images
10. LW - Raheem Sterling, 6.5
Scored after a well timed run. Showed great awareness and proof of his lethal combination with Kane | Getty Images
11. ST - Harry Kane, 7
Started the game brilliantly. Off the ball movement was class as always | Getty Images
12. Sub 1 - Marcus Rashford 6
Scored with his first touch of the game. Literally two touches, one to get himself in a great position and the second to plant the ball beyond the goalkeeper | Getty Images