In a tight first half England showed more aggression and were rewarded a minute before the break when Michael Owen was fouled in the box by Mauricio Pochettino.
Captain David Beckham took the responsibility himself and buried the ball in the back of the net to give England a half time lead.
Argentina pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half but could not break down the stubborn English defence. England had chances from Beckham, Scholes and Sheringham to seal the victory but had to settle for the solitary goal.
England will quailfy for the second round if they avoid defeat against Nigeria on Wednesday in Osaka, so set them alarm clocks it's a 7.30am start.