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ENGLAND have thrashed Iran 6-2 to record their biggest World Cup opening game win!Teen star Jude Bellingham opened the scoring to head England in front for his first international goal before Bukayo Saka notched either side of a Raheem Sterling strike.
Super subs Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish then ran in England’s fifth and sixth before Iran scored a 103rd minute penalty.

Result: England 6-2 Iran
England XI: Pickford; Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Bellingham; Sterling, Mount, Saka; Kane
Iran XI: Beiranvand; Moharrami, Pouraliganji, Hosseini, Mohammedi; Nourollahi, Cheshmi, Hajsafi; Jahanbakhsh, Taremi, Karimi

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Rashford strikes again
Marcus Rashford scored just 49 seconds after coming on for England, the third-quickest goal by a substitute in World Cup history.
Credit: PA
England legend Teddy Sheringham reacts to Three Lions win

Jude Bellingham reacts
When speaking to BBC One, the England midfielder said: “I told you I was saving that goal, really good day game for us.
“Six goals in a World Cup game is really impressive, regardless of who you play against. They came out really well, really strong, hard to break down and we didn’t have anything clear for quite a while.
“With more goals we opened them up but the start was tough and we had to dig it out, even when we weren’t getting it all our own way. Important that we learned how to create chances against those kind of sides. Bit disappointed about the two goals to be honest.”
When discussing his goal, he added: “To be honest, I thought it had missed! Then it took ages to loop into the goal.
“I said I wanted to score more goals for Dortmund and England this year and to get in the right position. Brilliant ball in from Shaw and I was just there to flick it away. Really proud moment for me.”
Credit: Getty
Match Stats

Bellingham impresses after scoring his first international goal
Jude Bellingham has become England’s second youngest scorer at the World Cup (19 years, 145 days) behind only Michael Owen in 1998 (18 years, 190 days).
Credit: Twitter.com / @oilysailor
Bukayo Saka reacts
When speaking to BBC One, the England winger said: “I can’t describe the feeling, it is amazing.
“I am so happy and so proud. We got the win as well so it is a really special day.
“We needed that good start. We haven’t played the best coming into the tournament. There was a lot of talk and speculation about our form but we showed everyone how much quality we have and what we can do.
“It is amazing to get the win under so much pressure. But we have to be consistent because we have the next game coming up in a few days and we have to win again.
“I feel in a good place. I feel the support and love from the fans, the coaching staff and my team-mates. That is all I need. I feel ready to give 100% and I will continue to do that every time I put the shirt on.”
Credit: Getty
Saka shines on World Cup debut

Full Time – England 6-2 Iran
What a performance from England!
Gareth Southgate couldn’t have asked for a better start to the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign, especially considering it was the most triumphant of any opening game victory in the country’s history!
Saka and Bellingham were both outstanding throughout, causing numerous problems for Iran with their creativity.
Rashford and Grealish were also quick to make an impact when they came off the bench, along with Wilson who unselfishly claimed the assist for the sixth goal.
Full Time – England 6-2 Iran
That result marks England’s biggest ever World Cup opening game win!
Credit: Getty
Full Time – England 6-2 Iran
England take all three points from their opening game in style!
90+13. GOOAAAAAALLLLLLLL IRAN!!!!!!
Taremi slots the penalty into the bottom right corner, sending Pickford the wrong way!

90+10. England 6-1 Iran
Penalty to Iran!
Taremi goes to ground following a shirt pull from Stones.
It’s a soft penalty to give away – especially considering the one that Maguire was denied at the start of the game…
90+9. England 6-1 Iran
We’re 100 minutes into the game and we have our first VAR check!
Iran could have a penalty here…
90+8. England 6-1 Iran
Iran come close to scoring a second!
Teremi sends the ball through to Azmoun, who runs one-on-one with Pickford in goal.
Azmoun attempts a powerful strike, but the England goalkeeper makes an incredible save to tip it onto the bar!
90+7. England 6-1 Iran
You can tell that England are back at a major tournament – ‘Southgate you’re the one’ is ringing around the stadium!
90+2. England 6-1 Iran
10 minutes have been added on!
90+1. England 6-1 Iran
Wilson latches on to a through ball and runs into the box.
Just as he looks like he is about to shoot, he squares it to Grealish in the middle who taps the ball into an empty net!
Credit: Reuters
90. GOOOAAAAALLLLLLLL ENGLAND!!!!!!
It’s SIX thanks to Grealish!!!!!

83. England 5-1 Iran
Rashford comes close to scoring a second!
The winger receives the ball on the right before travelling into the box and unleashing a shot, but his effort is blocked.
78. England 5-1 Iran
Iran have made some changes.
Karimi, Noorollahi, Jahanbakhsh, Mohammadi and Cheshimi have all been subbed off.
Ezatolahi, Kanaanizadegen, Torabi, Gholizadeh and Azmoun are on.
Inside the ground – redemption for Rashy
Marcus Rashford has just scored with his first touches of the ball for England since missing a penalty against Italy in the final of Euro2020 at Wembley 16 months ago.
That is why all the players mobbed him, writes Charlie Wyett.
Credit: AP
77. England 5-1 Iran
Iran have another chance as Taremi travels into the box with the ball, but his strike flies way over the bar.
75. England 5-1 Iran
Another substitution for England.
Kane is replaced by Wilson.
73. England 5-1 Iran
Just a few seconds after being introduced, Rashford nets England’s fifth of the match!
The Man Utd star receives the ball on the right before cutting inside and slotting a low driven shot into the bottom left corner.
Credit: AP
72. GOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL ENGLAND!!!!!!
Rashford scores with his first touch of the game!

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HARRY KANE and England are fearing being strong-armed by Fifa over the choice to wear a OneLove armband against Iran.It was pointed out that wearing the armband would be a breach of regulations and could see him booked for doing so.
Conversations between the FA and FIFA have continued ahead of the game.
Meanwhile, James Maddison will be absent for the clash through injury and will be hoping to make his comeback against the USMNT on Friday.
And Qatar fell to defeat in the opening game of the tournament as an Enner Valencia double saw Ecuador come out victorious.
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The omen of ’66
IT’S coming omen! England’s first three players in the Lions Den darts challenge all scored 66.
Players in the series have unlimited darts to reach separate targets in 30 seconds — and Declan Rice, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount all hit the same year  England  last lifted the World Cup.
Credit: Getty
Mount, the last of the trio to pull off the spooky total, was stunned by the flight of fantasy ahead of Monday’s opener against Iran.
The Chelsea midfielder said: “That is just strange. .. wow!”
Southgate wants to get England smiling again
Cheer we go! Harry Kane and Gareth Southgate vowed to get England smiling again with a rousing World Cup battle cry.
Gaffer Gareth said: “We’re in the middle of an economic recession and life has been difficult for a lot of our people.
Credit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
“So we want them to enjoy their football and have a journey with the team that brings some real happiness.
“Our country expects. The team are excited.”
‘England need to be like Germany’
Gareth Southgate wants England to become a major reference point for world football domination.
For the nation’s manager, it is even a case of: The more German, the better.
Credit: The Sun
outhgate, 52, said: “It is hard to talk about form because you are always six weeks, two months between games in international football, so what actually is form?
“What there is, is pedigree. We want to be a Germany, who when I was looking at their Wikipedia page: four golds, four silvers, four bronzes.
“European Championships — three golds, three silvers, three bronzes.
“Yes, our page didn’t quite look like that but we’d love it if it did in 40 years’ time and that should be our aim, to be consistently challenging. We remind ourselves of the privilege of being here and the uniqueness of it. Only 16 England teams have ever been to a World Cup.
“A lot of the staff and players are at their second. Raheem [Sterling] is at his third. You have to remind yourself of this moment in time.
“Tournament football is different. Germany have always been one of the prime examples of that. That’s how we need to be, really.”
Kane roars
England captain Harry Kane roared into action in Qatar last night — pledging to end 56 years of World Cup hurt.
The striker is aiming to lead the Three Lions to victory in their first group match today against Iran.
Credit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
And he revealed he is willing to defy any Fifa moves to ban the “One Love” rainbow armband.
Harry, 29, said he was prepared to risk a fine or booking for making the gesture — and vowed to back the team’s core values.
He said: “We have made it clear as a team and an organisation that we want to wear the armband.
“I know that the FA and Fifa are talking and we will have a decision, but I want to wear it”.
Pickford using runners up medal as inspiration
Jordan Pickford uses his Euros silver medal to inspire the “hunger” to win the first major trophy of his career.

Pickford said: “It’s at my mam and dad’s house.
“Other players don’t like them but I think it is a progression.
“It is a hunger to say that you have got the runners-up medal — it’s a hunger wanting to go and get the winners’ medal.
“You know what it takes to get to the final, now what’s the next step? So I think it is always good to have a look at. I’m positive about it, not negative.”
Southgate: ‘England can conquer for eight years’
Gareth Southgate reckons England are on Mission Possible at the Qatar World Cup.
The Three Lions boss, preparing for Monday’s opener against Iran, has told his 26-man squad to think big again after losing the Euro 2020 final to Italy on penalties.
Southgate said: “Maybe we’ve made the impossible just look possible.
“It’s exciting for other people and I can understand that.
“We want England to be competitive for years to come and I believe our academy system has got that.
“We have also got some good players and should be competitive for the next six, eight years with this group.”
Adams backs Rice for captaincy
England legend Tony Adams thinks Declan Rice would make a better captain for the Three Lions than Harry Kane.
Writing for SunSport, Adams began: “Harry Kane is a great player,  a top goalscorer, commands total respect from his team-mates and is rightly the first name on the England teamsheet.
So far, so good, but I have my reservations about him as captain.”
He added: “Personally, I’d have given the captaincy to Declan Rice. I love his character, he had a fantastic Euros, and you know he’s going to give you 90 minutes.
“Don’t forget the last time we won it we had a West Ham captain so it makes perfect sense!”
Wilshere backs Saka for penalties
Jack Wilshere has backed Bukayo Saka to make amends for missing a penalty in the Euros final, by stepping up to take one in a shootout if needed.
Writing in a column for SunSport, he penned: “He missed that crucial penalty in the final but bounced back and now he’s Arsenal’s penalty taker.
“I’m sure if there’s another penalty shootout he will step up. He won’t be bothered at all by what happened before.”
One Love armband could get Kane booked
FA chiefs fear they are being strong-armed by FIFA into ordering Harry Kane not to wear his One Love armband against Iran today.
England skipper Kane made clear his determination to lead Gareth Southgate’s team into battle with the armband on public display despite warnings that he could even be booked for doing so before entering the pitch.
The FA stuck to their guns after a meeting with FIFA match commissioner in which it was “pointed out” to them that wearing the armband would be a breach of regulations.
But the commissioner could intervene if Kane does try to defy FIFA and order it to be removed or attempt to physically strip it off the England skipper.
The astonishing row left both England and Wales officials frustrated and angry.
Conversations between the FA and FIFA were continuing into Sunday evening and could resume in the hours before kick off on Monday.

Qatar’s unwanted record
Qatar became the first World Cup hosts to lose their tournament opener as Ecuador’s 2-0 win produced a string of staggering stats.
Enner Valencia struck twice in a one-sided first half and had a third-minute opener ruled out by VAR as the first World Cup finals held in the Middle East kicked off with stifling heat and stuttering displays.
And amid all the debate about whether Qatar are suitable hosts off the field, the early figures suggest they are  unsuitable opponents on it.
Of the previous 22 hosts, 16 won their opening matches and six drew it.
In fact, Qatar had ZERO efforts on target against Ecuador – a feat achieved by teams only four times throughout the whole 2018 tournament.
In all, the game provided just 11 goal attempts – the lowest total for an opener since records began with England’s triumphant hosting in 1966.
England stars shielded from racist trolls
England’s World Cup stars will be shielded from racist trolls at the competition by cutting-edge tech that blocks abuse from their phones.
Football stars Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho were left in tears when they were bombarded with hate after missing penalties at the Euro 2020 Final defeat against Italy.

But FIFA world football bosses have confirmed players will be protected by an incredible new “Threat Matrix” troll-blocking system at Qatar 2022.
Boffins have perfected an artificial intelligence programme which scans millions of online messages and identifies abusive words and emojis.
Offensive messages will remain visible on favoured troll haunts like Twitter and Instagram and will not be erased from the web.
But the incredible technology will act as a filter built into players phones – making sick jibes invisible to stars before they turn on the mobiles after games.
4-3-3 for England
Gareth Southgate is set to ditch five at the back for England’s World Cup opener.
The Three Lions boss will revert to a back four against Iran for their curtain raiser in Qatar on Monday.
Here’s how the team could line up.

Enrique reveals daughter’s pick
Luis Enrique has joked his daughter will chop his head off if he does not pick Ferran Torres at the World Cup.
Ahead of Spain’s Qatar World Cup opener against Costa Rica, the former Barcelona boss was asked who he felt was an extension of himself on the field of play.
Luis Enrique’s daughter Sira is a fan of Ferran Torres
To this Enrique replied: “Very easy – It’s Mr Ferran Torres – otherwise my daughter will come after me and chop off my head.”
You’ve got no fans
Many Qatar fans left their World Cup opener at half-time after a shambolic performance against Ecaudor.
The Al Bayt Stadium emptied early with the host nation down 0-2 after the opening 45 minutes.

Qatar were picked apart by Ecaudor with Enner Valencia netting twice after seeing another strike disallowed for a close offside.
The host nation’s goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb put in a nightmare display giving away a penalty and was unconvincing throughout.
It was meant to be a big day for Qatar after the opening ceremony kicked off with a performance from BTS pop star Jung Kook and a narration from actor Morgan Freeman.
However the game did not live up to the hype as Ecuador took control early and Qatar rarely threatened.
Captain material
Tyler Adams will be the USMNT’s captain at the World Cup.
The Leeds star, 23, has been selected by coach Gregg Berhalter due to his “great leadership capabilities”.

Berhalter has employed a captain-by-committee approach during his time in charge.
Christian Pulisic, Walker Zimmerman and Weston McKennie have all worn the armband at some point during the USA’s qualifying campaign.
While Adams has captained the USA nine times in his international career, with seven of those games in the build-up to Qatar.
But now Berhalter has decided that the USMNT need a permanent leader, with Adams coming out on top.
Mount impressed England’s stars
Raheem Sterling reckons Mason Mount blew senior England stars away when he turned up for his first ever training session with them.
Speaking on Lions Den on the England YouTube channel, Sterling said: “I think it was the first camp after the World Cup in Russia.
Credit: Getty
“It was the best training performance I have seen to this day. He came up to join us and he was incredible.
“Left foot, right foot, dribbling, chopping, everything I am not exaggerating. I haven’t seen anything to top that.”
England will take the knee
Gareth Southgate has confirmed England WILL take the knee before Monday’s World Cup opener against Iran.
Southgate said: “We have discussed taking the knee. We feel we should.
Credit: PA
“It’s what we stand for as a team and have done for a long period of time.
“We understand in the Premier League, teams decided to only do it for the big games, the big occasions. We feel this is the biggest.
“We think it’s a strong statement that will go around the world to young people in particular to show inclusivity is important.”
Richarlison’s plans for retirement
Brazil forward Richarlison has claimed he plans to ” buy an island” and live there with a “bunch of women” when he retires from football.
He was asked by a reporter: “Do you have an idea of what you will do when you retire?”

To which he replied: “I’m going to buy an island and stay there with a bunch of women, just like that picture of Ronaldinho.”
Calamity keeper
Qatar goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb had a shocking first-half in the World Cup opening game versus Ecaudor.
The 32-year-old put in an unconvincing display in the early stages of the game as Enner Valencia netted twice to seal his side’s 0-2 win.

Fans could not quite believe how bad his Al Sheeb’s performance was as he failed to live up to the big ocasssion.
One fan said: “The Qatar goalkeeper might be the worst footballer I’ve ever seen.”
Another reacted: “Qatar’s goalkeeper genuinely looks like he’s won a competition on the side of a cereal box.”
More commented: “That keeper needs to change profession.”
First game is over
And it goes Ecuador’s way.
The South Americans have beaten hosts Qatar easily 2-0.
Credit: Reuters
Qatar become the first hosts ever to lose an opening game at the World Cup.
‘We want beer’
Ecuador fans roared their disapproval of Qatar’s last-minute alcohol ban during the World Cup opener
Hundreds of South Americans chanted “We want beer!” from the stands against the outclassed hosts at the at Al Bayt Stadium.
Credit: Getty
just 48 hours before Sunday’s big kick-off, Qatar’s tournament chiefs U-turned by refusing to allow alcohol at matches.
That could cost Fifa £40MILLION as Budweiser prepared to play hard-ball.
The American beer company is one of the World Cup’s official sponsors and were set to provide booze in grounds and fan zones in Qatar.
Fans zone
An impressive number of football fans cram into Al Bidda Park at the Qatar Fan Festival to watch the opening game.
The locals might not be happy with what they are seeing, but they are definitely supporting their country in droves.

Queiroz believes England can win World Cup
Iran boss Carlos Queiroz believes England have a huge chance of winning the World Cup.
The former Manchester United assistant manager stressed that the Three Lions have one of the best squads in the tournament and said it’s their best chance of winning since last time 56 years ago.

Queiroz said England “have a storm of talent” and it is “the most competitive squad since 1966.”
He continiued: “I worked with the generation of Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes and David Beckham but this national team is really different.
“They have a realistic chance to win any single game which makes them very, very dangerous.”
The real GOAT
Forget Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi!
A hilarious photoshop snap of Ecuador’s Enner Valencia imposed into the now famous Louis Vuitton ad campaign pic of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo playing chess is going viral on social media.

Valencia has got his World Cup off to a flyer with two goals against Qatar.
Golden Boot contender?
Bale is ready
Gareth Bale has dismissed injury concerns by announcing he is “ready to go” ahead of Wales’ World Cup opener against USA.
Speaking in a pre-match press conference, he said: “I’m right where I want to be. I’m ready to go. We’ve all been training hard in the week.
Credit: Getty
“Every World Cup there’s never been a Wales flag. For youngsters growing up now, to have Wales at a World Cup, they might not realise it now but it’s an incredible experience to have.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be here and an honour to do it for my country.
“We’re just our normal group having our normal jokes, working hard when we need to. The atmosphere is great at the hotel, at training.
“We’re really looking forward to the game and, when we’re in that mood, we normally give our best stuff.”
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BBC decided not to broadcast the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony as Qatar 2022 got underway.The ceremony at the Al Bayt Stadium in Doha was a spectacular affair, with Morgan Freeman part of the show.
However, the BBC did not show any of the ceremony and this left football fans up and down the country baffled.
We have all the latest from Qatar as the host nation face Ecuador in the opening game of the tournament.
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It’s nearly showtime
No shortage of Ecuadoreans here in the 60,000-capacity stadium.
The yellow shirts fill half of the lower section behind one goal, with plenty more scattered around the huge bowl.
At the other end and all around them, though, the traditional white robes, the “thobe”, with predominantly white head-dresses, are absolutely everywhere.
All the real fan noise, mind, is coming in Spanish and for “La Tri”.
There’s a giant World Cup Trophy above the centre spot with two huge flags about to be unfurled. Just over Five minutes to go…
Martin Lipton in Doha

Kane to wear One Love armband
Harry Kane WILL wear the One Love armband in the Three Lions’ opener against Iran – despite a threat that he could be BOOKED for doing so.
German FA chiefs were warned that there was a possibility that any team skipper wearing the armband in defiance of Fifa’s demand to only wear the official slogan could be cautioned before the game started.
With two bookings bringing a one-match ban, such a policy could have a major impact of the tournament.
England are the first of the eight European teams committed to the policy to go into action when they kick off against Iran on Monday.
Martin Lipton in Doha

Unhappy Van Gaal
Louis van Gaal has now insisted he will not be drawn on any political issues surrounding the World Cup and has ordered his players to do the same.
Van Gaal was the most critical off all the 32 managers leading their nations into the finals about the choice of Qatar as hosts.
Back in March he said: “It’s ridiculous that the World Cup is there. Fifa says they want to develop football there. That’s bullshit. It’s about money, about commercial interests.”
But yesterday in his pre-match press conference for Holland’s game against Senegal he refused to be drawn on the controversy surrounding some captains wearing the OneLove anti-discrimination armband. 
Van Gaal said: “I am no longer going to speak about political issues. I am focusing on this coming match, and I put a full stop on all these issues after we invited the migrant workers to watch our practice session.
“I have requested all my players to stop doing that too because I want them to focus on football and focus on the game against Senegal.”
In full flow
The opening ceremony is well underway.
My Arabic is slightly shaky, I confess. 
But I think he’s just welcomed the world to Qatar and declared the World Cup officially open.
Who do you think he’s cheering for?
Can’t see too many armbands on that dais, I must admit.
I was right: “Welcome and good luck to all,” the Emir finishes, the signal for a thunderclap of spectacular fireworks to light up the desert night sky.
Al Bayt is a giant Bedouin tent, with two honking great firepits as well outside.
But that’s it.
Quite nice but not exactly one to remember for ever.
There had been a whisper we would see Alicia Keys. We didn’t even get Richard Keys. And he lives here these days.
Oh well. Let the Games commence
Martin Lipton in Qatar

Team news
The teams have been confirmed.
Qatar XI: Al Sheeb; Al-Rawi, Khoukhi, Hassan; Miguel, Hatem, Boudiaf, Al-Haydos, Ahmed; Ali, Afif
Ecuador XI: Galindez; Preciado, Torres, Hincapie, Estupinan; Plata, Mendez, Caicedo, Ibarra; Estrada, Valencia

It’s loud
And the music.
Loads of fan chants from around the world.
So, “please don’t take me home” and a riff on the Crystal Palace chant. Holmesdale Road meets Al Khor. Lovely.
Meanwhile, giant shirts of all 32 teams bounce up and down, along with the flags of the competing countries. 
In case I didn’t say….it’s flipping loud, too.
Martin Lipton in Doha

More from the opening ceremony
Way, way, way below me, on the pitch, traditionally-clad women are swaying rhythmically, creating human sand-waves, lit in gold.
The music harkens back to a distant time.
Then again, this entire nation was still sand, bedouins and pearl fishers 50 years ago.
Before they found oil, then gas, and became a nation transformed.
A nation of 300,000 Qataris – and 1.8m migrant workers – who can hold the biggest prize in sport.
Now I can see that Morgan Freeman is down on the pitch too.
Lots of talk about unity, learning from each other, bringing nations together.
“With tolerance an respect, we can live together, in one big home”.
Unless you’re gay, presumably…
You can see there’s been no expenses spared on this ceremony.
Then again, it’s been calculated that Qatar has spent £220BILLION getting to this point since the World Cup was awarded to them in 2010.
I’d want to be excited at that price.
Morgan again: “Through our different languages, there is a common thread of understanding and respect.” Mmmmm 
And: cue the dancing soldiers…
Martin Lipton in Doha
Credit: AFP
Opening ceremony
But first, it’s down to the opening ceremony.
Those at home are watching a video of Arabian tribesmen in the desert. I think that was just basking sharks, too. Nice music, mind.
Oh, by the way, did I tell you about the absolute nightmare I had getting in? No. Well, I’m here, just.
And, to be fair, there is a lot of excitement.
Now for the show.. 
Martin Lipton in Doha

75 minute warning
After all the talk, we’re just one hour and 15 minutes away from the start of the World Cup.
Fans of Qatar and Ecuador are inside the ground and ready for action.
We will have team news coming shortly.

Update from outside the ground
Total chaos at Al Bayt stadium with gridlocked traffic causing mayhem and raising the prospect that thousands of fans and media will miss the opening ceremony.
Cars being stopped to allow vip’s early access has meant a huge backlog of traffic in the stadium 30 miles out of Doha in the Qatar desert.
World Cup officials and troops are equally perplexed with nobody quite sure where anybody is supposed to go.
So much for 12 years of preparation…
Martin Lipton in Doha
Booze ban hack exposed
SunSport has exposed a World Cup cover up by supporters.
This is a photo doing the rounds revealing an ingenious way to beat the stadium booze ban which has caused so much controversy.

Fans are ready
The excitement is building and supporters of both Qatar and Ecuador are beginning to arrive for the opening game of the tournament.
We’re just over two hours away from the 22nd edition of football’s greatest show and the first ever in the Middle East.
It kicks off at 7pm local time, which is 4pm in England.

Credit: AFP
Maddison misses training again
Things aren’t looking good for James Maddison.
Once again he’s not part of England training and this time he hasn’t even taken part in the huddle before the work starts.
But the Foxes schemer can’t be replaced because the deadline has passed (24hours before the first game) and in any case it was an existing knee problem that he felt in the game at West Ham.

Chaos ahead of opener
The World Cup isn’t off to the best start.
Qatar against Ecuador is less than three hours away, but there’s severe traffic outside the Al Bayt Stadium.
As you can below, this was around 3pm local time, which is around four hours before the game gets underway.

Captain America
Leeds midfielder Tyler Adams has been named as USA’s captain for the World Cup.
The armband has been shared around in the lead up to the tournament, but Adams has been given the honour in Qatar.
Adams has captained the side on eight occasions previously, but not since the draw with Mexico back in March.

Living crisis reaches Qatar
The cost of living crisis has reached the desert sands of Qatar.
‘Gold’ petrol is the elite brand sold at the pumps out here in Oil land where apparently there is enough crude beneath our feet for the next 402 years.
But in a shock move the price of Gold on the forecourt has rocketed from 2 to 2.1 Rials per litre in the past few days.
That is the equivalent of going from 46p to 49p.

France won’t replace Benzema
Didier Deschamps has confirmed that he will not be calling up a replacement striker for injured superstar Karim Benzema.
The 34-year-old world player of the year has returned home after suffering a thigh strain in training yesterday and will play no part in the competition.
Deschamps said: “Of course it’s a big blow. Karim had done everything to be fit, he was in a training session and with an almost innocuous action he hurt his left thigh.
“It wasn’t even the same leg as the hamstring injury he’s had before. So it wasn’t a relapse, it was a new injury.  It wasn’t even on a sprint or a kick. 
“It’s never good when an injury like this happens. It doesn’t make you smile. We’d already lost Christopher Nkunku and everyone was very sad.
“But this is Karim, and unfortunately the examinations have confirmed that the tear is too big in relation to the deadlines facing us.
“So he has already left the squad and I have decided that I will not replace him because we have enough attacking players.”
Fifa not providing team-sheets
Any World Cup fans wanting Qatar 2022 team-sheets will be left disappointed – because Fifa will NOT be printing any out.
The initial team list for Brazil’s 1998 Final side against France – which did not include ronaldo – became a prized possession for collectors.
But in a break from tradition, Fifa will send ALL match information only by computer link.
Fifa’s Hans hultman said: “We’re trying to be sustainable and all the information can be downloaded.”
Martin Lipton in Doha
Wales train ahead of USA clash
Gareth Bale and co are training this morning for the final time before their meeting with USA on Monday night.
Joe Allen aside, Rob Page has a full bill of health ahead of the opener.
The Swansea City midfielder is in attendance, but isn’t fit enough to take part.

Kehrer to put West Ham woes to one side
Thilo Kehrer refuses to let Premier League struggles with West Ham dent his dreams of winning the World Cup with Germany, writes Andy Dillon.
The robust defender has played more minutes for Die Mannschaft than anyone else in the squad since Hansi Flick took over as national team boss last year.
Kehrer joined West Ham for £10.5 million in the summer and came to Qatar with The Hammers just a point off the relegation zone.
He insists it was still the ‘perfect’ move for him and looks certain to be a main part of Germany’s campaign to win a fifth World title.
“West Ham have been underperforming and we haven’t got the number of points we would have wished for. We haven’t got what we deserved.
“Nevertheless I come here brimming with confidence because I have my rhythm. While the results haven’t been there we have played reasonable football.
“It has not dented my self confidence in the least with the national team and I come here ready to contend with any of my team-mates and with any opponent.
“I am playing in the best league in the world and feel fit for the World Cup. One of the biggest reasons for signing for West Ham was to play in the Premier League and I have played in 13 Premier League games.
“I am very well prepared for whatever task is thrown at me.  It was the perfect move for me.”
Wales’ World Cup debut is coming
All the focus today is on Qatar against Ecuador and then England vs Iran tomorrow.
But Wales’ first World Cup match for 64 years is also on the horizon.
The Dragons are in action on Monday at 7pm and will take a giant step towards the knockout stages with victory, especially with the Three Lions up next.
Everything you need to know about the clash is right here.
White didn’t watch Colombia shoot-out win
Ben White has revealed that England’s 2018 World Cup penalty shoot-out victory over Colombia wasn’t on the TV in his house.
When asked about his World Cup memories, the Arsenal man said: “There are not many that stick out.
“Obviously the disappointments and I remember Eric Dier’s penalty against Colombia and the feeling.
“But the game wouldn’t have been on in the house.
“I didn’t grow up watching football in my house as it wasn’t on. It’s never been in my life or my mum and dad’s.”

Lewandowski hoping to achieve dream
Robert Lewandowski says scoring at a World Cup would be a dream come true.
The Barcelona striker played at 2018 but failed to find the net in three appearances as Poland finish bottom.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I think about the last World Cup for sure.
“To score at a World Cup would be a huge dream and I’m going to do everything for this dream. I hope in this World Cup it will happen.”
Sterling set to start against Iran
Raheem Sterling is expected to start England’s World Cup opener against Iran, according to the Telegraph.
The Chelsea winger has struggled following his move from Manchester City, scoring three goals in 12 Premier League outings.
Regardless, Sterling, who started all seven games at the Euros, looks set to get the nod tomorrow.

Heartbreak for Benzema
Karim Benzema has been ruled out of the World Cup.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner suffered a muscle tear in training and will now miss the tournament.
The French football federation said: “Karim Benzema is out of the World Cup.
“After hurting the quadriceps on his left thigh, the Real Madrid striker is forced to give up on taking part in the World Cup.”
“He went for an MRI scan in a hospital in Doha, which unfortunately confirmed a tear.”
According to o L’Equipe, Anthony Martial, Wissam Ben Yedder and Moussa Diaby are the frontrunners to replace him in the squad.

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France have been dealt a huge blow as Karim Benzema is out of the World Cup with injury.The Ballon d’Or winner is having to forfeit from the squad after picking up an injury in training.
It remains to be seen as to who will replace the forward, as the French team have been dealt a huge blow.
Elsewhere, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have come together with Louis Vitton and released a joint Instagram post.
The pair are pictured together over a chess board ahead of the tournament that gets underway on Sunday.
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Lucky escape for Phillips
Kalvin Phillips dropped a clanger that almost wrecked his Qatar hopes.
The Manchester City star, 26, recovered from shoulder surgery just in time to be named in England’s World Cup squad.
Then he risked it all by letting a 5kg weight fall on his foot ahead of City’s clash with Brentford last week!
The midfielder, who has cut up his left flip-flop to stop it rubbing on the wound, said: “It’s a good story to be honest!
“So before that game, being the professional I am, I went to the gym before the match and was just doing loads of Achilles work on the leg press.
“I’d gone to pull a weight off the rack and there must have been one stuck behind it and I pulled it off and it landed on my foot and cut it all.
“I stood for about ten seconds and thought, ‘Oh my God — what was that?’
“If it wasn’t a 5kg plate, if it had been heavier, I think it would have been a lot worse.
“Imagine that, that is what you get for being professional!
“But it’s not too bad, the blisters from training hurt more.”
Dier sticks up for Southgate
Gareth Southgate does not deserve the berating he got for a dismal Nations League campaign this year, Eric Dier says.
The defender told a press conference : “It’s crazy talk and perceptions change so quickly.
“You’ve got to remember what England were doing before.
“He has taken England to a World Cup semi and the final of a Euros and we’re talking small margins that change the outcome of those results.
“The criticism is crazy after a small run of results given how England performed at those tournaments — and he was at the forefront of that.”
Defiant Kane
Harry Kane today defied a last-ditch bid by World Cup chiefs to stop him wearing a rainbow “One Love” armband.
His team-mate Eric Dier also became the first England player to speak out on Qatar controversies, calling stadium worker deaths “terrible”.
Fifa’s rattled chief Gianni Infantino had earlier launched into a bizarre defence of the World Cup, which kicks off tomorrow afternoon after a succession of cock-ups.
Three Lions captain Kane will sport its anti-discrimination armband when England play Iran tomorrow after the FA rejected a late Fifa alternative yesterday.
In its latest startling move, Fifa chiefs unveiled its own “approved” armbands including one emblazoned with: “NoDiscrimination.”
But the FA hit back: “We respect the Fifa armband but are committed to the One Love armband and intend to wear it.”
Benzema out of the World Cup
Reports are coming late tonight that Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema is out of the World Cup.
The France striker, 34, was earlier reported to be missing out on his country’s first game against Australia.
However, now it’s been said that he will miss the whole tournament with a tear to his left thigh, according to Le Parisien.
French journalist Julien Laurens has also tweeted: “Karim Benzema is out of the whole World Cup!!!!”
Southgate to resign?
Sam Allardyce reckons Gareth Southgate will quit as England manager even if he wins the World Cup.
Ex-Bolton and West Ham chief Allardyce said: “If Southgate doesn’t win the World Cup, he will step down from his role as England manager.
“Even if he does win it, he will walk too as he can leave on a high.
“It’d be a great way to bow out.”
Forest keen on Keane
Everton want to off-load England defender Michael Keane — and hope Nottingham Forest make a big offer.
Keane is out of favour under Frank Lampard and the Toffees plan to cash in on the 29-year-old ex-Burnley centre-back.
Forest have money to spend and want to boost their survival battle.
But Steve Cooper will explore other options first and Everton may have to settle for a fee around £15million at best.
Sancho wipes his Insta
Man Utd fans have been left baffled after Jadon Sancho wiped out his Instagram account.
The 22-year-old winger moved to Old Trafford last year after a stunning few years in Germany at Borussia Dortmund.
That had led to him becoming a regular in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
However, a drop in form for his club has seen him lose his Three Lions place which has resulted in him missing out on the World Cup.
Whether or not that is the reason that Sancho has decided to have an Instagram blackout remains unknown.
But fans were quick to spot today that he had deleted all of his previous posts from the account.
Benzema doubt
France could be without Karim Benzema for their opening World Cup game against Australia after he limped out of Saturday’s training session.
The reigning world champions begin the defence of their title in Qatar on Tuesday.

But they have received some bad news just days out from getting their campaign underway.
According to L’Equipe via Get French Football News, the Ballon d’Or winner is still being plagued by both a hamstring problem AND knee strains.
Those reports gained further credibility just hours later when Benzema, 34, pulled up and promptly ended his training session before the rest of the France squad.
His fitness issues now make him a doubt for their opening game against Australia.
Messi injury worry
Argentina are worried over the fitness of star man Lionel Messi after he was spotted training alone just days before their first World Cup game.
Lionel Scaloni’s side trained in Qatar together but Messi was notably not involved sparking injury fears amongst fans.
The 35-year-old appeared for practice later than the rest of his teammates and took part in a one-on-one session with a coach rather than joining in with the full squad.
Marca report that Messi did “solo exercises” and did not touch the ball in his session but he will be okay for the team’s opening game.
Argentine journalist Gustavo Yarroch rushed to calm down worried supporters saying that the PSG star has a small calf issue and that he is reducing his workload to ensure he is fit to play.
Check mates
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been snapped playing chess against one another ahead of the World Cup.
The long-time rivals took part in a Louis Vuitton photoshoot which was released just days before the start of football’s biggest tournament.

It showed the pair analysing where to go on a Louis Vuitton bag that was being used as a chess board.
Both men posted similar captions alongside the photo – which the pair shared on Instagram.
They read: “Victory is in the Mind. A long-standing tradition handcrafted trunk-building photographed by @louisvuitton.
“For @annieleibovitz Victory is a State of Mind. A long tradition of crafting trunks photographed by @louisvuitton.”
Friedal claims US don’t fear England
Former American goalkeeper Brad Friedal has claimed England does not scare US – but Wales do.
The ex-Tottenham keeper wrote in the Mail: “A lot of people think the US should beat Wales but this Welsh team is good. They have some excellent players and I’ve seen up close how special their star man, Gareth Bale, is.
“A lot of people think the US should beat Wales but this Welsh team is good. They have some excellent players and I’ve seen up close how special their star man, Gareth Bale, is. Watching him in the MLS Cup final showed me how the fire still burns inside.”
FIFA’s potential £40m Budweiser bill
Qatar’s beer ban could cost Fifa a staggering £40MILLION with Budweiser prepared to play hard-ball.
The American beer company is one of the World Cup’s official sponsors and were set to provide the booze in grounds and fan zones in Qatar.
However, footy fans attending the tournament will have a dry World Cup after authorities performed a stunning U-turn on alcohol this week.
It had previously been promised that beer and other drinks would be available at all eight World Cup venues.
However, Fifa chiefs bowed to pressure from the Qatari authorities and confirmed they will not be selling alcohol at any stadiums.
It’s bad news for official beer sponsor Budweiser, who are now looking for compensation following the shock U-turn.
They currently have a deal worth around £65m with Fifa for this World Cup.
Budweiser also has a deal for the 2026 World Cup worth up to £95m.
Dier asks fans to enjoy ‘without alcohol’
Eric Dier believes England fans can enjoy the World Cup in Qatar without any booze.
“I’d like to think you can enjoy yourself with or without alcohol,” Dier said.
“It’s up to us as a team and every team in the tournament to bring great football, exciting football and that’s what is going to create a great atmosphere in the stadiums.”
Unicorns are back!
Harry Maguire has revealed the inflatable unicorns are back for England.
The blow-up animals became iconic in the last World Cup when several players were pictured riding them joyfully in the swimming pool.

They then made a comeback last year as England managed to fight their way through to the Euro 2020 final.
And now for the third major tournament in a row, the inflatable unicorns will make an appearance.
Maguire confirmed the beach toys have returned with a Instagram post.
With a pic of the unicorns sat on a pool edge, the defender wrote: “nice to meet you again.”
Wenger backs England for semi-final
Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger says England will reach the World Cup last four – if they can banish their inner doubts.
Wenger, the leader of the World Cup Technical Study Group, told SunSport: “If you look at the last few years, England should be in the semi-finals at least.
“They got to the semi-finals in Russia and then the Final in the Euros.
“But the doubt comes from what has happened over the past year.
“If they can get over that doubt in their own minds, they have the team that is good enough to reach the semi-finals.”
Neymar respect
Brazil forward Richarlison physically moved teammate Fred after he sat in Neymar’s seat for a squad picture ahead of the World Cup.
The five-time world champions are heading to Qatar as the favourites to lift the trophy.

Tite’s 26-man squad boasts a plethora of superstars led by Paris Saint-Germain’s Neymar.
And it was Tottenham’s Richarlison who reminded Manchester United midfielder Fred of the hierarchy among the players on the eve of the tournament.
As they prepared for a photo together, Fred sat down in the middle of the shot.
If he had stayed there, he would have been situated next to Brazil captain Marquinhos and Newcastle man Bruno Guimaraes.
But Richarlison was having none of it and proceeded to move the 29-year-old.
He walked over to Fred and dragged him to the side, before sitting him down in a different spot in between Raphinha and Alex Telles.
It was a hilarious moment which caused a huge reaction on social media.
One person said: “😅 Poor Fred. Good to see players respect Neymar”.
Smith Rowe tips England to win World Cup
Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe reckons England will win the World Cup.
Smith Rowe was part of the squad this time 12 months ago, but injuries and a lack of form has seen him miss out on the last couple of squads.
Regardless, the attacker is confident his teammates will get the job done in Qatar.
He told Sky Sports News: “I’m really confident in the team, obviously we missed out at the last minute in the last big tournament.
“I believe the boys are going to bring it home this time. The squad is really strong, it’s looking good.”
Free access for supporters
The technical nerve centre of the 2022 World Cup has been revealed – as an office full of stats geeks in Newport, writes Martin Lipton.
A team of 78 analysts, date engineers and scientists based in the Welsh town will detail every second of each player in all 64 matches.
The detailed breakdowns, including the number of time a player DIDN’T receive a pass when they were open, as well as sprinting, line breaks, tackles, distances and accuracy of passes, will be available to anyone via just four hours after the final whistle on the Fifa Training Centre website.
It means the armchair fan will have free access to all the information available to Gareth Southgate and the other 31 World Cup coaches – and be able to show where England got it right OR wrong.
Unbeerlievable
Budweiser have been left with thousands of canned beer they cannot sell at the World Cup after Fifa’s last minute U-turn, writes Martin Lipton.
And that comes after a genuine booze cruise from the firm’s three breweries in London, Lancashire and Wales.
Tankers made the 8,000 mile sea route to Doha – a voyage taking 30 days – via the Mediterranean and the Suez Canal, arriving just in time for Qatar to slam down the shutters on the planned stadium bars.
No wonder it is anticipated Budweiser will be looking for a £40m reduction on the new sponsorship dela that takes in the 2026 tournament in the US, Canada and Mexico.

Wenger tips England for semi-final
Arsene Wenger says England will reach the World Cup last four – if they can banish their inner doubts, writes Martin Lipton.
The former Arsenal boss, now Fifa’s head of global football development, is backing Gareth Southgate’s to go deep in what he predicts will the “World Cup of the last chance – and the high press”.
Wenger, the leader of the World Cup Technical Study Group, told SunSport: “If you look at the last few years, England should be in the semi-finals at least.
“They got to the semi-finals in Russia and then the Final in the Euros.
“But the doubt comes from what has happened over the past year.
“If they can get over that doubt in their own minds, they have the team that is good enough to reach the semi-finals.”
No Christraction
Christian Eriksen has said that Cristiano Ronaldo’s interview with SunSport columnist Piers Morgan hasn’t proved a distraction for him ahead of the World Cup.
The 37-year-old said he has no respect for Erik ten Hag and also slammed the club’s owners, but Eriksen hasn’t been in contact with the Portugal ace recently and his focus is solely on football’s showpiece.
He said: “It hasn’t been any distraction for me, all my thoughts are on the World Cup.
“I haven’t spoken to him in the last couple of weeks.”
World Cup a dream for Eriksen
Christian Eriksen will complete his ‘dream’ journey back to football’s biggest stage here in Doha when he takes to the field against Tunisia next week, writes Neil Custis.
In June of last year Eriksen said he had ‘died for five minutes’ when he collapsed in the 42nd minute of Denmark’s Euros opener against Finland in Copenhagen.
He returned not only to club football with Brentford last season and now Manchester United this but as the talisman for his national side.
He said: “I think one of the first conversations I had with the doctor in Amsterdam, who participated in all the testing, was about it being my goal to play in the World Cup if everything went well.
“That was the dream at the time. But things went as they did and I was back playing in March and have since played a number of matches. I never expected that. It’s just great.”

Portugal presser
Our man Jordan Davies is on the ground in Qatar covering Portugal and said there’s a nervous feeling ahead of their pre-tournament press conference.
For the first time this World Cup, there was a nervy clamour and a long queue to get into a press conference. No surprise which one.
Portugal only landed last night but manager Fernando Santos, as well as an unnamed player, are set to speak at 5pm local time at their training base in Al Shahaniya.
Would be surprised if every question was not in some way related to Cristiano Ronaldo and the impact his blockbuster interview has had on Portugal’s focus in Qatar, with their opening group game against Ghana on Thursday.
Training follows at 5.30pm local time, and all eyes will surely be on one man…

Cafu showing support for Wales
Wales stars were buoyed by Brazil legend Cafu giving his backing to Wales in their first World Cup in 64 years.
A Budweiser advert emerged featuring the smiling Samba star – a two time winner of this competition – wearing a bucket hat and speaking in Welsh. 
Cafu said: “Welcome back, Wales, you last played in the World Cup 64 years ago and your return has been an inspiration for everyone – including me. Good luck boyos!”
Long-serving midfielder Jonny Williams revealed it had been the talk of the Wales hotel, saying: “We were completely surprised, we had a bit of a joke about it at dinner. Wishing us well, with his bucket hat on.
“I got tagged in to an Instagram post from Budweiser too. Everyone couldn’t believe what they were seeing.”
Spurs defender Ben Davies – himself a Welsh speaker – said:  “I saw the video and it’s class! 
“It’s strange to see someone like Cafu wearing a bucket hat and trying to speak a bit of Welsh but it’s great, and it shows we’re doing all the right things on and off the pitch.”

England vs Iran build up
England’s World Cup opener against Iran is drawing ever-closer.
The Three Lions kick off their campaign against Carlos Queiroz’s side in Al Rayyan on Monday at 1pm.
Gareth Southgate’s charges will be expected to get up and running with a routine win, which will put them in good shape to reach the knockout stages
But while Iran have only managed two victories in 15 previous World Cup games, but they almost qualified from a group that included both Portugal and Spain in 2018, so shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Here’s everything you need to know about England and Iran ahead of their meeting.
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ARGENTINA have gone into panic mode as footballing hero Lionel Messi misses training just four days before their opener.The Argentine head coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that a number of his men are struggling.
Scaloni said: “There are some players who are physically troubled. The truth is that we are not sure that these 26 players are all in the squad, luckily, we have days to decide if we have to make any modifications.
Meanwhile, Qatar has confirmed that alcohol will NOT be served in or around stadiums at the World Cup in a shock U-turn by organisers.
Beer was supposed to be available in the concourses of grounds in Qatar but the powers that be have reversed that decision.
And James Maddison has been training on his own away from the rest of the England squad as he continues his quest for fitness.
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Shaw thing for Luke
Luke Shaw has made the bizarre revelation that he has a tattoo of the Coco Pops monkey on his left arm. 
The England and Manchester United left-back is in Qatar preparing for the World Cup as the national team looks to end 56 years of hurt.
Shaw, 25, says the image of the popular cereal-selling primate is a tribute to his two-year-old son Reign.
The goalscorer in the Euro 2020 Final told the Lions Den YouTube channel about the unique ink.
He said: “My son is obsessed with Coco Pops, he has a lot of them in the morning, I thought it would be quite cool because he is interested in my tattoos.”

Southgate’s spot-kick practice
Keeper Aaron Ramsdale, 24, revealed: “It can become detrimental if they are taking them against goalkeepers because we then start to know where they are going.
“If I know where you are going seven times out of ten and I start cheating and going early and start saving them, you might start worrying about it.
“We have something which is called a skills net where the corners are open.
“At the moment the lads are just working on technique.
“Everybody can take penalties, it is just those fine pressure-margins which we can’t recreate out there unfortunately.”
Southgate’s attention to detail helped the Three Lions beat their spot-kick hoodoo in the last-16 win over Colombia at the last World Cup.
It was their first penalty shootout triumph in a World Cup — at their fourth attempt.
Ramsdale reveals England penalty prep
England are practicing penalties WITHOUT goalkeepers in a bid to avoid more shootout heartache, reveals Aaron Ramsdale.
Gareth Southgate does not want his stars’ confidence plummeting because his keepers are saving too many in training.
So the Three Lions, who agonisingly lost the Euro2020 final on penalties to Italy, are training for spot-kicks using a skill net that forces players to hit corners.

Maddison could be the game-changer for England, says Cole
Joe Cole believes James Maddison has the “personality” to be a World Cup game-changer for England.
The former Three Lions star said: “The big one for me was James Maddison. Form-wise and quality-wise he should be playing, but also because of his personality – he’s an England player.
“He won’t shirk the responsibilities; he’ll get on the ball.
“There will be times later in the tournament when the game might be in the balance and you need to be brave and accept the ball as a midfield player and he will do that.
“You can play number 10s deeper now and we need to set the tempo of our games. I’m so happy he’s in.”
Three Lions open with Iran
England boss Gareth Southgate will be hoping for nothing but a good result in the Three Lions’ World Cup opener.
But he goes into the game without Kyle Walker for Monday’s World Cup starter against Iran.
Midfielder Kalvin Phillips is also unlikely to be ready for a starting role.
Both players could be in contention for the Three Lions’ second game with the USA on Friday November 25.
And the duo will certainly be anxious to be at peak fitness in time for the group finale with Wales the following Tuesday.

Ronaldo puts aside United qualms for Portugal
In the second part of the incredible interview released yesterday, Ronaldo shockingly revealed he wants bitter rivals Arsenal to clinch the title if United can’t.
That was after stating that he believes his side are three years away from challenging themselves.
But for at least the next fortnight the superstar is focused on trying to land the one crown that has so far evaded him.
Portugal kick-off their World Cup campaign next Thursday against Ghana.
They then face Uruguay and South Korea in Group H.

ICYMI – Qatari authorities stamp booze ban on World Cup games
World Cup fans will be hit with a stadium booze ban today as FIFA buckles under pressure from the Qatari authorities, writes SunSport’s Martin Lipton and Nick Parker.
Despite months of promises that beer and other alcoholic drinks will be available at the eight World Cup venues, SunSport can confirm that NO booze will be sold at all in any of them.
And it means that the only official World Cup site where fans can have a drink will be the Doha city centre official Fan Festival – selling just Budweiser at almost £12 for less then a pint.
Even as late as yesterday, FIFA had promised that fans could buy drinks inside stadiums on match days but not between kick-off and the final whistle.
But that policy was scrapped after Qatar’s Supreme Committee put the squeeze on FIFA – although it will cost the world governing body millions of pounds in compensation to official beer sponsor Budweiser and parent company InBev
More on Ronaldo touching down in Qatar
CR7 and his international colleagues were suited and booted as they landed at Hamad International Airport on Friday.
Ronaldo, 37, missed last night’s 4-0 friendly victory over Nigeria due to a stomach bug.
However, he showed no ill-effects as he looked a picture of concentration in front of the camera upon arrival in the Middle East.

Ronaldo ARRIVES in Qatar
Cristiano Ronaldo has arrived in Qatar with his Portugal national teammates.
The 37-year-old icon has more or less severed ties with “disrespectful” Manchester United.
But his focus is now on World Cup preparations.

Son reportedly fit for South Korea
Son Heung-Min WILL be fit for Korea’s World Cup opener against Uruguay – according to one of his closest pals in football.
The Spurs has been training in a specially adapted face mask after suffering a fractured eye socket in a Champions League clash with Marseille a couple of weeks ago.
He was only able to rejoin his team-mates for anything approaching a full session earlier this week and it is still far from certain that he will be risked in Thursday’s Group H opener against the South Americans.
Yet Korean legend Koo Ja-Cheol, who is working in Qatar as a TV pundit for his homeland, insists it is unthinkable that his big buddy will not be in the line-up.
Ja-Cheol, who won 76 caps before his international retirement in 2019, said: “He plays with such passion that I don’t think anyone would be able to stop him.
“He never wants to miss out and although he’s not been able to do any heading yet, he will push himself very hard. I expect him to start.
“With the mask it’s uncomfortable of course, it wouldn’t be 100 per cent condition. But from what I know of him that’s the way it will be.
“Look, we need to score – I think we will need two to win and who can score for Korea? Everyone says Sonny.”
Southgate to reveal team on Saturday night
Foden, 22, is reported to be in line to start after scoring seven goals and providing three assists in 14 Premier League games this season.
The Manchester City ace has already ruled the world with England at U17 level.
And he has the same winning feeling as he prepares for his first World Cup with the senior side.
Although Southgate won’t reportedly confirm his starting side until Saturday night.
Foden set to start opener vs Iran
Phil Foden is reportedly set to be given the nod for England’s World Cup opener against Iran.
The Three Lions boast plenty of options in attack and Gareth Southgate has a selection headache ahead of the game.
But Foden has impressed the boss and assistant coach Steve Holland with his recent form, according to the Daily Mail.
Although Bukayo Saka and Mason Mount are also pushing for starting berths in attacking positions.
Southgate is believed to have told his players that a 3-4-3 system remains his preferred formation for the tournament.
With Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling both likely to be in from the off, there is only set to be one more place up for grabs.

More on England’s hot training session
Harry Kane led the team out followed by goalkeepers Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale and went through drills ran by former Manchester City and Wales ‘keeper Martyn Margetson.
But Kyle Walker, who will be absent for the Iran clash, again trained despite his groin injury.
Once again several stars including Declan Rice and Jordan Henderson wore sleeveless shirts and shorts in an attempt to keep cool under the watchful eye of assistant boss Steve Holland.
Kane and his team-mates took on board plenty of fluids shortly after training began, with the players also making use of “The Heat Shack”.
That is what the squad call the tent cover at the side of the training pitch, which includes a misting fan that players can use to cool down.

Incredible Messi ad released
Adidas have revealed an incredible new advert to celebrate Lionel Messi’s final World Cup that features him playing against FOUR versions of himself.
The German sporting giants, who sponsor both the 35-year-old and the Argentina national team, released the stunning clip today.
Titled “The Impossible Rondo”, they describe it as a celebration of Messi’s World Cup career over the years.
And it features shots of him from each of his outings at past tournaments and his modern-day self enjoying a kickabout – which would make a pretty much unbeatable five-a-side team.

Spain call up for Balde
Spain have called up Barcelona rookie Alejandro Balde as a late replacement for injured defender Jose Gaya.
Valencia skipper Gaya, 27, picked up an ankle problem on Wednesday and was sent home two days later.
Boss Luis Enrique has now turned to 19-year-old Balde, who has not represented his country at senior level before.
The left-back has only become a regular for Barca this season, playing just 23 times in total.
A statement from Spain’s national team read: “Luis Enrique has taken into account his brilliant start to the season to replace Gaya.”
Credit: AP
Fans prefer Prem title over World Cup win
A YouGov survey of football supporters on behalf of Betfair has revealed that a significantly larger proportion of fans would prefer their team win the Premier League rather than England lifting the World Cup.
A large 65 per cent of the 1,116 supporters surveyed would rather their team win the Premier League, with just 29 per cent saying they would sooner see Gareth Southgate’s side triumph in Qatar.
Three out of five Manchester United supporters (60 per cent) would rather their side add a 21st Premier League title, while a third (32 per cent) would prefer England win the World Cup.

Ramsdale on top
Aaron Ramsdale keeps being trolled by his England team-mates over Arsenal topping the Premier League table.
The Gunners goalkeeper is with the Three Lions squad as they prepare for the World Cup in Qatar.
Ramsdale has revealed that players are winding him up about him going on about Arsenal being top.
The 24-year-old said: “Most of the banter is coming from Conor Coady and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
“They keep walking around pretending that I’ve said, ‘Five points clear’, every day.”

Maddison sweating over fitness
James Maddison is facing a race to be 100 per cent fit for England’s opener with Iran on Monday.
The Leicester midfielder missed training for a second day on Friday with a knee problem sustained against West Ham on Saturday.
Maddison trained with the 26-man squad on Wednesday but complained of soreness so was told by medics to manage the issue.
He was out on the pitch on Friday – although without boots – for a pep talk from assistant boss Steve Holland but then returned down the tunnel.
The Three Lions are acclimatising to the 33-degree weather and appeared to be feeling the sun.
Fortunately, temperatures will drop to around 26C by 4pm – the local time for kick-off for the Iran clash.

EXCLUSIVE: Williams on Bale
The Swindon midfielder told SunSport, via SkyBet, that they are well equipped to take on the best on the globe.
He said: “Bale’s achievements and career speak for itself. The important goals in big finals, he’s a five-time Champions League winner, and what he’s done for Wales since coming into the senior team.
“I think he’s probably the best British player of all time.
“I can’t speak highly enough of him as a player and a person, so down to earth, a pleasure to play alongside.
“Even when I was kid coming through and he is the same now, you can’t always say that about players.
“It is a credit to him and amazing to see what he did in America, but I am not surprised. He is a winner, a big game player and he always turns up.”

EXCLUSIVE: Bale is Britain’s best, says Williams
Gareth Bale is the best Britain has to offer, according to international team-mate Jonny Williams.
The winger also warned England that superstar Bale’s title success in America was the perfect warm-up for the World Cup.
Williams, 29, and the rest of the Wales squad flew out to Qatar on Tuesday to begin preparations.
They kick off their tournament against USA on Monday before facing Gareth Southgate’s side on November 29.
Lucozade pulls branding from World Cup
England sponsors Lucozade has pulled all its branding from the World Cup in a snub to Qatar.
The drinks maker says its bottles will not be seen at matches, in training or at press conferences following rows over the Gulf state’s brutal laws.
Harry Kane and his teammates will still be given drinks but they will carry no branding or logos.
The firm said today: “Lucozade is a proud long-term sponsor of the England team but we are not an official Fifa World Cup partner.
“We continue to support all England teams, who celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion.
“While the England team have access to our drinks for hydration purposes we will not have a brand presence at press conferences, training session or on pitches.”

Angry fan reactions to booze ban
Not every fan had such a sunny outlook on the booze ban.
One supporter said: “To be honest I am very annoyed.
“The whole time they have been telling us that you can buy booze in the stadium, which we were all very excited about.
“Now the day before the World Cup starts we have been told we can’t buy booze there.
“Everyone knows that English people love a drink”.
England fans vow to still “get p****d” in Qatar despite ban
Defiant England fans have vowed to still “get p****d” before games in the wake of Qatar’s sudden stadium booze ban.
The announcement comes despite supporters previously being promised they could drink beer in stadiums throughout the tournament.
The stunning booze ban comes just two days before the tournament kicks off.
But while Fifa buckled under pressure from the Qatari authorities, it appears Three Lions fans won’t let it get in their way.

One supporter told The Sun: “It won’t dampen my experience too much because I will just get p****d before the games.
“That’s the way the cookie crumbles.”
FIFA booze backlash
FIFA President Gianni Infantino will face the global pushback against the World cup booze ban on Saturday, writes SunSport’s Martin Lipton.
But Infantino was in full kit w***** mode as he wore the Qatar 2022 maroon referee’s tracksuit as he hailed “Team One” of the tournament.
He said: “The 129 officials do an incredibly difficult job and I have so much esteem for them.
“They have to take instant decisions that change the lives of entire countries, under immense pressure” 
Phillips on the naughty list
Kalvin Phillips has followed Peter Crouch into Fifa’s bad books – before kicking a ball at Qatar 2022, writes SunSport’s Martin Lipton from Qatar.
Ahead of the 2006 tournament in Germany, videos of Crouch’s aerial approach was used as an example of what should be penalised by referees, making the striker a marked man.
And now Phillips’ block to create the space for Harry Magurie’s opener in the qualifying win over Albania last November was the example of play that officials should clamp down on in the World Cup.
Phillips moved back from an offside position to clear the way for Maguire to power home.
Refs’ chief Pierluigi Collina said: “That would be disallowed here. It would be interfering with an opponent from an offside position”
Credit: Getty
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