PARIS - Forward Li Ying's first-half volley saved China from the brink of exit as the 1999 runners-up claimed their first win here on Thursday against FIFA Women's World Cup debutants South Africa.

With the 1-0 victory, China extends the aggregate score against South Africa to 29-0 and keep their hopes of entering the knockout stage alive.

The China-South Africa game also sent Group B leaders Germany to a secured spot of qualifying to the last 16.

China and Spain are hopeful to join the world No 2 with both having lost 1-0 to Germany. Spain came from behind to beat South Africa 3-1 earlier.

As 24 teams are divided into six groups, the top two of each group and the four best third-placers qualify for the round of 16.