Hockey World Cup 2018: England vs China - 3 standout players from the match

#2 Guo Xiaoping

The Chinese have made a strong statement in their opener

It was one of the best goals we have seen in recent times. One fleet-footed 25-year-old striker dancing his way past a host of English defenders to then display remarkable ball control and skill at the goalmouth and beat one of the most accomplished goalkeepers of the World Cup.

As a result of the opening strike, Harry Gibson replaced the immensely-experienced George Pinner at the end of the first quarter and continued to guard the England citadel until the end of the match.

Guo Xiaoping continued to display his sublime skills on the pitch and will be closely watched by the opposition benches when China continue their World Cup campaign.

It would be fair to say that Guo's opening goal set the tone for the rest of the match and depending on results that follow, may have enormous repercussions in terms of which of the teams make it through to the knockouts from Pool B.