Germany beat Saudi Arabia in final friendly

World champions Germany failed to hit top gear as they edged to a 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabia in a lacklustre World Cup dress rehearsal yesterday, less than a week before the tournament starts.

It was their first win in six matches but the Germans, who leave for Russia in four days, rarely put their foot on the gas, seemingly fearful of any last-minute injuries, while the Saudis confirmed their good form heading into the World Cup.

The Saudis pulled a goal back when Taisir Al-Jassim scored on the rebound after Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a penalty in the 85th minute and he missed a golden opportunity to level in stoppage time.

Germany is in Group F along with Sweden, S Korea and Mexico. Saudi take on hosts Russia in the opening match on June 14 and also play Egypt and Uruguay in Group A.