Hockey: Germany score late winner

Richard Mantell of Great Britain (R) reaches out to tackle Tobias Matania of Germany during the match. Photo / Getty Images

Germany snatched a dramatic late winner against Great Britain at the Champions Trophy this afternoon but could end up playing the same opponent in the battle for fifth place and the all-important final automatic spot for next year's tournament.

The Olympic champions were pushed all the way by the British but skipper Jan-Marco Montag scored from a penalty corner after the final hooter had sounded to give his side a 2-1 win.

It capped off a disappointing few days for Great Britain, who went into the match on the back of an embarrassing 8-1 schellacking by Spain on Tuesday.

They had their chances to win the match, coming close in the final few minutes, but couldn't repel the second penalty corner on the stroke of full time - Germany's first goal from a penalty corner at this tournament. They disputed the goal, asking for a TV replay, but the decision stood.

The win took Germany's unbeaten run over Britain at the Champions Trophy to 13 games.

The two teams could meet again on Sunday in the playoff for fifth and sixth, with the winner earning automatic qualification for next year's Champions Trophy.

Germany meet Pakistan and Great Britain play Korea in their final group D matches on Saturday and, should both win as expected, will face off again on Sunday.

Pakistan routed Korea 6-2 earlier today.