PARIS, June 13 -- 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 extend 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.

China head coach Jia Xiuquan, however, was rather unsatisfied, with a desire for more goals.

"I think my players should still have been better at seizing the chances at the critical moment and should have been more calm. For the next game, the team needs to improve control of the ball," said the former head coach of China's men's U-19 national team.

"I hope that the players can exhibit their true ability. Their desire to win has impressed me the most over the year and I've been deeply moved by this. This has given me courage to lead them.

"I think they've done a great job today. And I think this is also a manifestation of their mentality. They want to win," he added.

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