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The Scout: World Cup Matchday 2 Preview, 21 Nov

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Group B – England v Iran

The England squad is without potential starters Reece James and Ben Chilwell through injury, but they are expected to overcome Iran in their first game and ultimately top the group.

Team Melli coach Carlos Quieroz will be hoping that quality forwards Sardar Azmoun and Mehdi Terami can cause England problems and ultimately lead to a shock.

However, with Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka and Jack Grealish among their attacking options, Gareth Southgate’s side should start with a convincing win.

Group A – Senegal v Netherlands

This contest could decide who tops Group A. However, the absence of talisman Sadio Mane is a huge blow for Senegal and makes them a far less threatening prospect.

The Dutch, unbeaten in 15 games, have a strong spine in Virgil van Dijk, Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay and look the better side on paper. Cody Gakpo is an excitement machine and could be a difference maker in the tournament.

Louis van Gaal’s men are rightly huge favourites going into the game.

Group B – USA v Wales

Both nations harbour aspirations of making the knockout stage so a win for either puts them in a strong position. The USA side have some exciting youngsters in Sergino Dest, Brenden Araronson, Giovanni Reyna and Yunus Musah but they lack a star like Gareth Bale.

At 33, this will probably be Bale’s last World Cup and he seems to go to another level whenever he pulls on the Welsh jersey. Joe Allen is doubtful for this one but Aaron Ramsey remains part of the supporting cast and will look to play off target man Kiefer Moore.

Expect a close contest decided by the odd goal.

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