England have a lot to live up to in their opening match against Iran after reaching the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup and the EURO 2020 final, but Gareth Southgate’s side has failed to win a single game in their last six matches. England were unbeaten in their campaign to qualify for Qatar while their total of 39 goals is their highest tally in a single World Cup qualifying campaign.
Gareth Southgate has put out a more attacking lineup than usual, perhaps a corrective measure after their dismal recent results with the back five – they are winless in six games. The four-man defence allows Mason Mount to come into midfield, who alongside Jude Bellingham will look to work the spaces to create attacks more effectively, with Declan Rice as the pivot. It’s a lineup that has likely been influenced by the opposition, Iran are unlikely to keep a hold of much of the ball.
Southgate has also gone for Raheem Sterling and Bukayo Saka in the wide areas, as opposed to the in-form Phil Foden, suggesting width, particularly on the right flank with full back Kieran Trippier, will play a crucial role for their attack today.
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