A four-man breakaway suffered a tough task on the 213 kilometre stage, which began in Troyes, with the sprinters’ teams motivated to chase.

They had a mere one minute advantage at the 40km to go mark, but they were eventually reeled with 6km to go.

Dimension Data, who lost their main sprinter Mark Cavendish of Britain due to injury on stage four, aimed to deliver Boasson Hagen to the finish.

The Norwegian, who has two Tour de France stage wins to his name, looked to have triumphed in the sprint as he crossed the line with Kittel.

But victory would be awarded to the German rider by a narrow margin, giving him back-to-back stage wins.

"When I crossed the line, I really had no clue if I won or not,” said Kittel, who has equalled Erik Zabel as the successful German stage winner at the race, with 12 successes.

“Before the finish, I knew it was going to be close.

“At 150m to go, I thought it was still 200, but luckily, the door opened on the right side I could pass Edvald.

“To reach twelve stage wins at the Tour is an incredible success.

“I'm in a great shape, I'm super happy.

“I already have three wins in this Tour, I'm so happy about that."

The general classification remained unchanged, with Britain’s Chris Froome maintaining the yellow jersey.

The three-time winner is 12sec clear of fellow Briton and Team Sky rider Geraint Thomas.

Italy’s Fabio Aru is two seconds further behind in third.

The International Cycling Union WorldTour race is due continue tomorrow, with a 187km hilly stage from Dole to Station des Rousses.