England kick off their World Cup campaign against Iran on Monday as they go in search of a first major trophy since 1966. We’ve previewed England vs Iran and picked out some of the best betting tips based on the latest odds.
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England vs Iran
Monday 21st November, 1pm
Khalifa International Stadium
Live on BBC One
England vs Iran Football Preview
With tough games against USA and Wales coming up, this is the one match England can’t afford to drop points in. We saw Gareth Southgate’s side labour to a 0-0 draw against home nation Scotland at Euro 2020, as well as needing a stoppage time winner to beat Wales at Euro 2014. It is far from a foregone conclusion that England top this group.
Southgate hasn’t exactly overseen the perfect preparation. The Three Lions have played six Nations League games since the end of March, losing three and drawing three. A 4-0 battering at Wembley against Hungary was a low point, with fans calling for the manager’s head just months before a major tournament.
When you look at the talent at their disposal, you’d think England have enough to get back to winning ways, but Iran can’t be overlooked. A very impressive 1-0 win over a full-strength Uruguay in September stands out. Their defensive resilience was admirable and in-form Porto striker Mehdi Taremi managed to nick them a winner.
England have prior issues with breaking down a low block, which they will undoubtedly come up against in their opener. The full-backs will need to play high and wide to pin their opposite numbers and create space in the centre for midfield runners to exploit. The likes of Jude Bellingham and James Maddison could be pivotal in those areas.
England vs Iran Odds
There’s not much value in England at 1.34, with a draw (4.20) and Iran win (10.00) offering far greater returns. England win and under 2.5 goals (2.37) looks a tempting bet, with Southgate’s side sure to dominate proceedings but struggle to create chances. If you think Iran are being massively overlooked, both teams to score at 2.70 is a great shout.
England vs Iran Betting Tips
*Odds correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
England win and under 2.5 goals – 1.80
You have to consider two factors: Southgate is a defence-first coach and Iran will defend for their lives in a low block. In the Euro 2020 group stages England only scored twice and kept three clean sheets. In fact, this bet would have landed in two of three group games and the round of 16 win over Germany.
Given their poor form this year, it’s tough to see England comfortably cruising past any nation in the group.
1st half result: draw – 2.16
In a match that doesn’t have too many big markets, we like the look of a draw at half-time. As mentioned before, Iran are defensively solid. When you also consider England’s struggles with creating against a low block in the past, there’s every chance this is even going into the break. Could be a good opportunity to double your stake.
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