Germany's Thomas Mueller (L) celebrates a goal scored by team mate Mesut Ozil during the 2010 World Cup Group D soccer match against Ghana at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg June 23, 2010. [Agencies]

Germany's Mesut Ozil (L) celebrates with team mate Bastian Schweinsteiger after scoring against Ghana during a 2010 World Cup Group D soccer match at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg June 23, 2010. [Agencies]

JOHANNESBURG - Germany nipped Ghana 1-0 in their last World Cup Group D game, a result which sent both teams into the last 16, while both Australia and Serbia crashed out of the World Cup after an entertaining 2-1 Group D match going for Australia here on Wednesday.

Germany garnered six points to top the group and Ghana had four points and a better goal difference over Australia, who also collected four points after beating Serbia 2-1 the same day.

Ghana attacked straight from the whistle and their second minute move ended with Andre Ayew firing wide.

Germany responded quickly as Cacau broke down the right, only to send his volley into Richard Kingson's arms.

The Black Stars nearly gifted the Germans an early lead when defender Johathan Mensah tried to clear a German cross out of the area and instead he turned it goalwards. Kingston was quick enough to palm out the ball.

Ghana had a superb chance in the 25th minute when Ayew broke through two German defenders to face keeper Manuel Neuer, who bravely collected the ball at Ayew's feet.