Favourite England dominated Iran 6-2 in their opening match of the 2022 World Cup at Khalifa International Stadium in Qatar on Monday.

Jude Bellingham opened the scoring with a well-taken header before Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling extended England's lead in the first half.

Star-studded England, a contender to win its first world title since 1966, dominated the whole game.

Iran were awarded a penalty for a minor shirt pull, given after a VAR review, which Taremi converted in the 13th minute of stoppage time.

England’s cause was helped when Iran’s influential goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand was forced off the pitch after 20 minutes following a sickening clash of heads with a team mate but they took full advantage.

England came into the tournament without a win in six games.

England will next face the United States on Friday, while Iran will play against Wales.

Bd-pratidin English/Golam Rosul