World champions Germany scored a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Malaysia to post their third straight victory and make sure of a berth in the final of the 12th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament, in Ipoh, Malaysia, on Thursday.
Asian Games bronze medallists Malaysia lost all the four matches they played in the five-team tournament.
Germany, who have won all their matches -- beating Pakistan 4-3 and South Korea 2-0 -- and will wrap its preliminary round campaign against New Zealand on Friday.
New Zealand and Pakistan, both with six points, are battling to meet Germany in the final while South Korea, on three points, have an outside chance of reaching the final if they beat Pakistan on Friday.
The Malaysians put up a gallant performance today but lacked the experience and fitness to overcome the Germans, who relied on their power-packed penalty-corners.
In the match, played after a heavy downpour, both teams created many chances in the first 35 minutes but failed to break the deadlock.
In fact, a superb display by Malaysian goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin denied the Germans on many occasions.
Germany looked more dangerous after the interval but it took them 20 minutes to penetrate Malaysia's tight marking.
Justus Scharowsky converted a penalty-corner in the 55th minute before Christoph Bechmamm strengthened Germany's lead with the second goal in the 64th minute after collecting a neat past from Michael Green.
Just two minutes before the end, Azlan Misron scored a consolation goal for the home side but it was too late to hold the Germans.
The final and the play-off will be held on Sunday.
Five teams took part in the tournament after India withdrew at the 11th hour.
