After 60: Defoe gives England 1-0 lead against Slovenia in must-win World Cup Group C match

England 1-0 up against Slovenia at 60 minute mark

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa — Jermain Defoe’s 23rd-minute strike kept England 1-0 ahead against Slovenia at the 60-minute mark of the teams’ final World Cup group match.

Defoe volleyed in James Milner’s cross from close range as England chases the victory it needs to advance to the round of 16.

The Tottenham striker also had a great chance to add a second goal in the 46th minute but his flicked effort from Gareth Barry’s header went just wide of the Slovenian post.

Wayne Rooney also hit the post in the 58th, a minute after a John Terry header was brilliantly saved by Slovenia goalkeeper Samir Handanovic.

England needs a win to guarantee advancing from a group that also contains the United States and Algeria. Surprise Group C leader Slovenia only needs a draw to be assured of advancing.