Xtra Time Web Desk: Heavyweights England and Netherlands registered wins in their opening fixtures of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. England began their World Cup campaign on an emphatic note as they thrashed Iran 6-2 in Group B fixture at the Khalifa International Stadium. Bukayo Saka (43’ & 62”) scored a brace for the Three Lions while Jude Bellingham (35’), Marcus Rashford (71’), Jack Grealish (90’) & Raheem Sterling (45’) were also on the scoresheet. Iran managed to reduce the deficit with dual strikes from Mehdi Taremi (65’ & 90+13’).
In Group A fixture late strikes from Cody Gakpo (84’) and Davy Klassen (90+9’) helped Netherlands register a 2-0 win over Senegal at Al Thumama Stadium on Monday. Gakpo broke the deadlock with six minutes left on the clock, as he perfectly headed a cross from Frankie de Jong. Moments later Klaassen pounced on a weak Mendy save to score on the rebound nine minutes into stoppage time.
In another Group A fixture on Monday USA and Wales settled for a 1-1 draw. Tim Weah gave United States the lead in the 36th minute while Wales equalized through their talismanic captain Gareth Bale who scored from a penalty.