Germany finally claimed its first victory at this year’s World Cup slipping past Thailand 2-0 in Group B action this past Sunday.

Both starting pitchers opened the game with six scoreless innings before Germany hit paydirt against Thai hurler Krissada Heebthong in the seventh inning with a pair of runs. Michael Otto struck out six en route to the victory with Cologne Cardinals ace Dirk Fries registering the final six outs.

The pitching duel – which limited both squads to a grand total of five hits – saw Heebthong (0-1) throw a two-hitter and still suffer the defeat. Thailand will next meet Cuba on Tuesday before a date with Venezuela the following day.

Germany will finish the tournament against two formidable opponents when they battle Australia on Tuesday before squaring off against Korea on Wednesday in Group B action.

Tags: World Cup