Today in the first match of Group B in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, England's national team met Iran at the Al Thumama Stadium.

Southgate's squad immediately took control and launched attacks on the Iranian defenses, which held out for 35 minutes. Their strength was significantly weakened by the loss of goalkeeper Ali Reza Beiranvand, who sustained an injury and had to leave the field in the 20th minute.

On the 35th minute, Jude Bellingham leaped above everyone in the opponent's penalty area and opened the score with a header. Before halftime, England effectively decided the outcome of the match. Bukayo Saka scored first, followed by Raheem Sterling, both against Hossein Hosseini, who came on as a substitute.

In the second half, the situation on the field did not change significantly. Southgate's squad continued to attack and scored three more goals against Iran's goalkeeper through efforts from Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jack Grealish. The opponents managed two shots on target by Mehdi Taremi. Thus, 6:2 in favor of "Three Lions."

As a result, England's national team earned three points and topped Group B. In the other match in this quartet today, USA will play against Wales.

World Cup 2022. Group Stage. Group B

England — Iran — 6:2 (3:0)

Goals: Bellingham (35), Saka (43, 62), Sterling (45+1), Rashford (71), Grealish (90) — Taremi (65, 90+13, from the penalty).

England: Pickford, Shaw, Maguire (Dyer, 70), Stones, Trippier, Bellingham, Rice, Saka (Rashford, 70), Mount (Foden, 71), Sterling (Grealish, 70), Kane (Wilson, 76).