England boss Gareth Southgate makes World Cup history with 6-2 win over Iran

Gareth Southgate has come under mass scrutiny in recent months but his England side once again proved they are a force to be reckoned with as they started their World Cup campaign with a bang. 

The Three Lions strolled to a 6-2 victory over Iran in their opening Group B clash, while rivals USA and Wales will play tonight, with Bukayo Saka starring as he claimed an expertly-taken brace. 

In victory, Southgate claimed two highly impressive accolades, having now won more games than any other Three Lions manager at major tournaments, while setting the record for their most goals scored in a World Cup opener by any England side. 

Gareth Southgate has more major tournament wins than any other England manager after his side’s 6-2 win over Iran

Bukayo Saka (right) and Raheem Sterling (left) were both on target in a comfortable victory

Southgate has now won nine games at major tournaments, consisting of the World Cup and European Championship, having previously shared the record with Sir Alf Ramsey on eight. 

Ramsey, of course, is the only manager to guide England to a World Cup triumph, though, coming back in 1966. Southgate will now look to emulate that feat in Qatar. 

Meanwhile, Southgate now holds the title for the best-ever return in a World Cup opener, in what was the second time his side have scored six at football’s most prestigious competition. 

England hit Panama for six in the second game of their 2018 World Cup campaign, with Harry Kane scoring a hat-trick, John Stones claiming a brace and Jesse Lingard also getting in on the action. 

More to follow…