England beat Nigeria 2-1 in a World Cup warm up game at Wembley Stadium on Saturday evening, writes DEAN WORKMAN.

Both teams came into the game looking for a competitive clash ahead of their respective World Cup campaigns.

The Three Lions got off to a great start. Kieran Trippier forced Francis Uzoho into a great save from a free-kick. England then struck from the resulting corner as Gary Cahill rose highest to send a bullet header into the top corner. 1-0 to the home side with after seven minutes.

Gareth Southgate’s team were looking threatening, with Raheem Sterling particularly proving difficult to handle.

After missing a number of good chances, England finally got their second six minutes before half-time. Harry Kane picked up the ball outside of the Nigeria box and produced a powerful strike which flew past Uzoho in the Nigerian goal.

England 2-0 up in half time and seemingly in control.

Nigeria came out firing in the second stanza and it did not take them long to pull a goal back. Odion Ighalo’s powerful strike rebounded off the post and fell into the path of Alex Iwobi who finished brilliantly, leaving Jordan Pickford with no chance. 2-1 with 47 minutes gone.

The home side were no longer enjoying the freedom and space they were afforded in the first half as Nigeria pushed forward in search of a leveler.

Despite this pressure the Super Eagles could not take advantage of any of their openings.

England held on for the 2-1 victory and Southgate would be pleased by the overall performance of his side. Gernot Rohr would also be encouraged by the good second half showing by his teams.

Both teams will have one more friendly before heading off to Russia to compete in the World Cup.