England coach Fabio Capello was pleased with the spirit his side showed as they sealed their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup finals with a 1-0 win against Slovenia.

England had looked sluggish in their draws with the USA and Algeria earlier in the tournament but were far sharper against a side that had taken four points from their first two group encounters.

Jermain Defoe scored the only goal of the match in the 23rd minute to end Slovenia's run in the competition.

After the victory, former AC Milan and Real Madrid coach Capello said:"We played together, fought together and I am really, really happy for the result.

"This was the team that I know. This team can go forward. All the team, the coaches, their mind is free. We can go forward without fear, without everything."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email