England through to face Germany

Jermain Defoe grabs the only goal as England beat Slovenia 1-0 to reach the second round of the World Cup.

England produced a much improved performance to beat Slovenia 1-0 and progress to the last 16 as Group C runners-up.

Fabio Capello's side needed to win after being held to dire draws by USA and Algeria in their opening two World Cup games, and responded with a fine display full of urgency and slick passing.
Two of the players brought into the side by Fabio Capello combined for the crucial goal on 22 minutes as James Milner delivered an excellent cross from the right and Jermain Defoe provided the finishing touch.
England continued to dominate possession and carved out many opportunities to double their advantage, with Samir Handanovic repelling Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney with athletic saves, and Defoe also flicking an effort wide.

Slovenia did carry a threat on the counter-attack and anxiety would have been spreading among England supporters as their team failed to take a more comfortable lead. However, England stayed solid in defence and held on to the final whistle to make it through to the next round, with Slovenia dramatically bowing out as a result of USA's last-gasp winner against Algeria.

Rooney played much better than in any other World Cup match. Still looking a little slow but when he links up with Gerrard things happen. He's not in best in the world form but getting better.