England kick their World Cup campaign off against Iran at the Khalifa International Stadium. They won’t have things all their own way, with the Asian minnows boasting some very capable playing personnel. Ryan Liberty previews.
The Three Lions might be favourites here, but I’m not crazy about their overall chances, and I think Iran have some hidden gems up front.
It’s the second match of the tournament and you better believe these two sides will want to see their Group B campaign off to a flyer.
To Win Match
England 7/20 | Draw 36/10 | Iran 10/1
England
Whenever the international stage is set and England are an actor, opinion on their chances is split. Opinion on their squad is split.
Their fans are hungry to see success in Qatar, and given that it has been a long haul since their last success in 1996 – I’m sure the pressure to be crowned the world’s best is felt in their squad.
Looking at their last 10 games, they have scored an impressive 27 goals and only conceded eight – but their defensive vulnerability is where I think they could come undone at this tournament. They are often too rigid and I suppose the one negative to having arguably the best local league in the world… is that all of your players are exposed to similar styles consistently at club level.
Iran
Obviously, Iran is the underdog in a match such as this, especially when you factor in the fact that they have never progressed past the group stage in their country’s history. To be fair to the Iranians, they were one of the first teams to qualify from Asia and make 2022 their third FIFA World Cup appearance on the trot!
Iran will be led by manager Carlos Queiroz – a rather controversial decision considering his tumultuous spell in charge of the Iranian national side last time out. He will certainly hope for a different World Cup experience this time.
Iran seem to favour an approach which gives plenty of cover defensively and leaves just the one attacking option up front. Sardar Azmoun is likely to be that striker – and with his ability, I wouldn’t be betting against Iran not to at least ask questions of their opponent’s final line.
Verdict: Both Teams to Score – Yes 37/20
Iran will certainly be the more comfortable of the two teams in the conditions.
I think England win the game, but I can see Iran scoring. England’s defence is fragile and lacks confidence. Added to the likes of Sardar Azmoun is Alireza Jahanbakhsh and Mehdi Taremi who, on their day, can cause issues for the very best defenders in world football.
If you want, go England to win and both scoring – but for me, both teams scoring at this offer is good enough.
