South Africa (5)* v (5) Germany

By Fiona Crawford

South Africa defeated Germany in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 5-5 draw at Federation Square stadium today.

In front of a stadium packed with cheering fans, including one fan with a cow bell that he put to good use, South Africa and Germany played a physical, frenetically-paced game.

South Africa scored first, with Luvuyo Mehlo's tight, corner-skimming shot. He scored again by sneaking the ball through the German goalkeeper's legs, but was given a blue card shortly afterwards for a late, leg-sweeping tackle against Germany's Patrick Helliger.

Outnumbering the South Africans for two minutes, Germany failed to capitalise on their advantage and in fact it was the South Africans who managed to score.

Germany trailed 2-4 at the end of the first half but clawed their way back with some skilful goals from Denny Iwan. Germany equalised with one minute to go and, as the teams prepared for a penalty shootout, the mood around the stadium was electric.

Artur Walencik stepped up first to deliver a strong shot down the middle for Germany. The South African keeper just managed to deflect it with the tip of his shoe.

Thapelo Moses Kalpens faked and then snuck the ball under the German keeper's armpit to secure the win for South Africa.

South Africa are now ranked first in Group G of the Preliminary Stage, with Germany right behind them in second place.

Photos: Photoworx