The Three Lions face their first foe of this winters World Cup at 1pm on Monday the 27th November, as England kickstart their campaign against a tricky Iran side ranked 18th in the world.

The opening game of an international tournament is always a cagey affair, such is the importance of being able to hit the ground running, neither team dare to lose. Yet since Southgate’s appointment as manager, he’s undefeated in curtain raisers – winning both by fine margins. If England can overcome their poor Nations League form and start strong on Monday, morale amongst a close-knit squad will be higher than ever, and it could set the stage for an exciting few weeks ahead.

Iran head into this tie after a number of impressive results – the highlight of which a 1-0 friendly win over Uruguay. Manchester United fans with be familiar with their man in charge – manager Carlos Quieroz was Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant for a number of years, and carries an acute knowledge of the game, well known for his rigid and well organised defensive approach.

Iran aren’t blessed with stand out players like the Three Lions, but they do have a sense of home turf advantage – and should head into this match a well-drilled unit, that’s tough to break down and ready to counter attack given the opportunity. It may not look it on paper, but Monday presents a dangerous first test for Gareth Southgate and England.

Unfortunately for Quieroz and his players, Iran’s pre match build up has been blighted by political unrest in the country – sparking interrogation from journalists present at the tournament. When questioned over the Iranian governments stance on women’s rights, Queiroz slammed journalists, before storming out of his press conference after stating that ‘the whole world is against us, so it’s us against the world.’

The same kind of siege mentality was reflected in captain Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who accused the English media of trying to undermine and unnerve his team by asking questions about the chaotic protests raging on back home. It’s unconfirmed whether the players will sing the countries national anthem or not, yet one thing is for sure – the Iranian squad will be fired up and ready to restore pride in their country, so things could get feisty.

Predicted England Starting 11:

GK: Pickford – Everton’s number one hasn’t been in great form this season, yet never lets his country down when it matters most

RB: Kieran Trippier – One of England’s stand out players in 2018, Trippier’s performances for Newcastle have cemented a starting place at right back, yet expect a switch to left back once Walker returns to fitness

CB’s: John Stones and Harry Maguire – Both men have become accustomed to playing with each other in previous England tournaments, Maguire’s inclusion has sparked much debate, but if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it?

LB: Luke Shaw – Injury to Ben Chilwell was a sore loss for Southgate, yet Shaw has delivered in the past. His role in the build up to attacks on the wing could be crucial against a deep lying Iran side

CM (Holding): Declan Rice – West Ham’s star man has been hit and miss this season, but his ability to break up play and kickstart sustainable attacks is vital in this England side

CM: Jude Bellingham – Appearing in his first World Cup, Bellingham has quickly become an important figure in England’s midfield. His energy and persistence as a box to box maestro could be key in finally breaking down tough defences

CM: Mason Mount – Southgate has continually put his faith in the Chelsea midfielder, who at his best can help press from the front and spring the attack

RW: Phil Foden – Simply down to the supreme talent of the City attacker, he must be included. Foden’s flair and vision is irreplaceable, yet his willingness to press for a full 90 minutes is what Southgate will admire in his forward

ST: Harry Kane – Usually a slow starter, Kane has been flying this season for Spurs, if he can replicate that form, England’s front line could finally click when it matters most

RW: Bukayo Saka – Arsenal’s exciting youngster has only excelled at club level since his fabulous Euro’s last summer. His pace and direct runs in behind can be a problem for any team. Sterling could take his place instead, yet poor form for Chelsea could prevent him a start

Prediction:

Iran’s resilience will be a test for Southgate’s men, but there’s still enough quality on the pitch to take the victory. England should dominate, and have long periods of the ball in which they’ll have to be patience in order to break down their opponents. In what could be a slow game – corners, free kicks or a penalty may be the game changer.

At the last two tournaments, the Three Lions have scored and created a hatful of chances based upon the delivery and movement on set pieces. Iran might not be able to cope with the aerial threat of Maguire and co – yet Kane has also shown a frequent knack of finding himself in the right place at the right time for Spurs to finish rebounds and loose balls recently, so don’t be surprised if the captain delivers the killer blow later on, after a frustrating first half.

The midfield battle will be key and England must continue to play at a high intensity for the full 90 minutes – the heat will be searing in Qatar on a Monday lunchtime, so expect changes made proactively, rather than reactively by Southgate as energy levels begin to fade amongst the squad. Fresh legs could be a crucial factor in the dying embers of a tight affair – the pace of Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling could be damaging on the counter attack if England were to take the lead. Whereas Grealish’s ball carrying abilities and Henderson’s experience can help dictate the game and dominate possession.

If Southgate’s decision making is on point, and he uses his substitutes well, England should be able to sustain pressure throughout – and eventually Iran’s stubborn resistance should crack. Given the stakes, and the style of both teams, a high scoring game is highly unlikely – but the Three Lions should have enough to edge a narrow 1-0 win, kickstarting their campaign with a hard fought, morale boosting victory.

Verdict: England 1-0 Iran