Germany, who have rested several star names for the tournament, took an early lead against the Asia Cup holders in Russia.

A cut-back found Lars Stindl, one of the new faces in the Germany squad, and the striker produced a composed finish when free on the edge of the area.

Having conceded after just five minutes, Australia regrouped and nearly levelled but Trent Sainsbury could only head wide from a free-kick.

Australia would claw level when Tom Rogic’s shot from the edge of the box made its way through Germany’s goalkeeper Bernd Leno in the 41st minute.

Germany would go back in front on the stroke of half-time as Julian Draxler scored comfortably from the penalty spot, after Leon Goretzka was brought down in the area.

Goretzka would give Germany a cushion three minutes into the second half, with the midfielder firing beyond goalkeeper Matt Ryan from close range.

Australia remained in the contest and gave themselves hope when Tomi Juric scored, after Leno inexplicably allowed a Rogic shot to slip out of his hands.

The goal was eventually awarded, following consultation with the Video Assistant Referees, as Germany had appealed for both handball and offside.

Germany nearly settled the game when Timo Werner hit the post late on, but the world champions would cling on to secure a 3-2 win.

They now lie second in the Group B standings behind Chile, who beat Africa Cup of Nations winners Cameroon 2-0 yesterday.

Teams will enjoy a rest day tomorrow, before Group A returns on Wednesday.

Hosts Russia will aim for a second victory when they meet Portugal at the Spartak Stadium in Moscow, before Mexico take on New Zealand in Sochi.

The tournament is traditionally used as a warm-up for the following year's World Cup and features the home nation, the winners of six continental tournaments and the reigning FIFA World Cup holders.