Defoe gives England 1-0 lead against Slovenia in must-win Group C match after 30 minutes

England up 1-0 against Slovenia at 30-minute mark

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa — Jermain Defoe scored to give England a 1-0 lead against Slovenia its must-win World Cup match at the 30-minute mark.

Defoe knocked in James Milner’s cross in the 23rd minute from close range.

England had started nervously but soon recovered its poise, with striker Wayne Rooney showing form for perhaps the first time in this World Cup. Frank Lampard also went close in the 27th minute.

Slovenia had the best chance of the early exchanges when midfielder Valter Birsa cut in from the left in the seventh minute but his shot was saved easily by goalkeeper David James.

England needs a win to guarantee advancing to the round of 16 while surprise Group C leader Slovenia only needs a draw.