After 75: Defoe gives England 1-0 lead against Slovenia in must-win World Cup Group C match

England 1-0 up against Slovenia at 75-minute mark

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa — England pressed hard to add a second goal to Jermain Defoe’s first-half opener, as it took a 1-0 lead over Slovenia going into the last 15 minutes of the teams’ final World Cup group match.

Defoe volleyed in James Milner’s 23rd-minute cross as England chased the victory it needs to advance to the second round.

Wayne Rooney hit the post in the 58th, a minute after John Terry’s header from a narrow angle was saved at the near post by goalkeeper Samir Handanovic.

Slovenia forward Milivoje Novakovic was close to tying the game but his effort in the 68th minute was blocked.