England vs Iran: Predictions, tips & betting odds
England begin their World Cup campaign on Monday evening at the Khalifa International stadium when they face Iran in the opening match of Group B.
Gareth Southgate's men are well-fancied to reach the latter stages of the competition but could be in for a tough opening game against the side coached by former Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz.
England vs Iran latest odds
Iran are the number one Asian side in the latest FIFA world rankings, with Queiroz guiding the team to 20th place in the standings.
Iran have lost just one competitive fixture in three years but remain clear outsiders against England with bet365 offering them at 10/1 (11.00).
England meanwhile are priced at 1/3 (1.33) with the draw available at 15/4 (4.75).
England vs Iran first goal scorer odds
Harry Kane was the top scorer at the last World Cup and is the favourite to win the Golden Boot in Qatar.
The Tottenham striker is also the favourite to break the deadlock in the group opener at 11/4 (3.75), while Raheem Sterling can be backed at 9/2 (5.50).
Elsewhere in the market, Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka are available at 13/2 (7.50).
For Iran, Porto striker Mehdi Taremi has been in excellent form this season excelling in the Champions League where he has scored five goals in five appearances.
The 30-year-old is offered at 14/1 (15.00) while former Brighton midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh can be backed at 20/1 (21.00).
England vs Iran preview
The Three Lions come into the tournament following a disastrous UEFA Nations League campaign where they failed to win a match and ended up getting relegated from League A.
Southgate's side were convincing in World Cup qualifying, winning their group with relative ease although Hungary and Poland both managed to claim draws against England and Iran will feel they can get something from the game.
England rarely come flying out of the blocks at the World Cup and history would show that opposing a big win for the Three Lions makes plenty of sense.
In 2002, England drew 1-1 with Sweden in their first match, while in 2006 they sneaked past Paraguay 1-0 and in 2010 they drew with the USA.
In 2014, England lost to Italy, while their opening match in Russia four years ago saw them score in injury time to beat Tunisia by a 2-1 score line.
England vs Iran tips and predictions
Iran are priced at evens (2.00) to win with a +1.25 Asian handicap which looks like an excellent option.
This bet pays out in full if Iran win or draw while providing a half win if Iran lose by one goal.
England have not won their opening game at a World Cup by more than one goal since 1998.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
