As it happened – England beat Iran in World Cup 2022 group stage opener

England and Iran began their World Cup campaigns on Monday afternoon as the sides met at the Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan.

Many would have expected a tight encounter with Iran sitting deep and looking to frustrate the Three Lions, but that is not how it played out.

Gareth Southgate’s men scored six goal in a World Cup game for only the second time ever, while Iran managed two late consolations, with the clash finishing an incredible 6-2.