VALENCIENNES, France — Germany is finding it far from easy going at the World Cup.
Against a skillful Spain, the two-time world champions relied on Sara Däbritz’s goal in the 42nd minute for the win Wednesday.
It was second-ranked Germany’s second successive 1-0 victory in Group B. Germany earned three points for an opening round 1-0 win over China.
The Germans, who have always reached at least the quarterfinals at Women’s World Cups, had to overcome slack defense before taking the lead.
Spain’s lack of production spared Germany an upset to the 13th-ranked team that is playing in only its second World Cup.