Germany maintains perfect record with narrow win over Spain

Germany edged closer to the knockout stage at the Women's World Cup after beating Spain 1-0 on Wednesday, maintaining its perfect record after two matches.

The two-time Women's World Cup champion broke the deadlock when Sara Daebritz pounced on a loose ball inside Spain's penalty area and hammered in the winner from close range.

Germany will book a place in the round of 16 if there's a draw between France and Norway in Wednesday's late match. Manager Martina Voss-Tecklenburg's side can also progress if China wins or loses, or if Australia and Brazil draw on Thursday.

Germany takes on South Africa in its final group stage match June 17, while Spain will face China for a chance to advance past the opening phase of the tournament for the first time in the country's history.