The victory ends a six-match winless run that the Three Lions endured ahead of the tournament – with the misery of their Nations League campaign quickly dispelled as they laid a marker down for Wales and the United States.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring for England after ex-Sheffield United defender Harry Maguire had earlier hit the crossbar. The Manchester United man set up England’s second as he nodded the ball down for Bukayo Saka to volley home superbly.
Raheem Sterling made it 3-0 before half time as Saka soon claimed his second just after the hour. Southgate’s side were not be able to boast a clean sheet however, Porto striker Mehdi Taremi pulling one back for Iran with a fierce strike past Jordan Pickford.
Maguire was forced off with what appeared to be head injury in the immediate aftermath of the goal, raising doubts over his availability for the group games against Wales and the USA.
Marcus Rashford made it 5-1 after coming off the bench before Callum Wilson unselfishly squared the ball for Jack Grealish to tap into the empty net in the final minute of normal time. Iran were awarded a late penalty after intervention by VAR and Taremi kept his cool to slot past Pickford.
Following the impressive victory, here’s how we rated Gareth Southgate’s players in their opening match in Qatar...
1. Jordan Pickford - 6
Made one incredible save in second-half stoppage time. Was not given much else to do bar a handful of attacks from Iran. Photo: Matthias Hangst
2. Kieran Trippier - 7
Almost recorded an assist as Harry Maguire headed his corner off the bar. Made five tackles as 82 per cent of his 88 passes found a teammate. Photo: Matthias Hangst
3. John Stones - 6
The former Barnsley player gave away a late penalty - although it proved a contentious call. Photo: Matthias Hangst
4. Harry Maguire - 7
Was forced off by injury in the second half but not before hitting the crossbar and assisting Bukayo Saka's first goal of the afternoon. Photo: Clive Brunskill