Germany tie Spain 1-1 in friendly

BERLIN, March 23 (Xinhua) -- World champions Germany came from behind to share the spoils with Spain in an international friendly in Dusseldorf on Friday.

Germany extended their unbeaten run to 22 games as Thomas Mueller's goal cancelled out Rodrigo Moreno's effort to secure a 1-1 draw in front of 50,653 spectators on home soil.

Spain started on the front foot and caught the Germans flat-footed as Andres Iniesta's through ball allowed Moreno to slot home the opener from the edge of the box with six minutes into the game.

The visitors controlled the ball but failed to extend the lead as David Silva squandered a good chance from inside the box with 18 minutes played.

As the match progressed, the hosts gained a foothold into the encounter as Timo Werner came close before Mueller capitalized on Sami Khedira's square pass to slot from 20 meters into the top left corner in the 35th minute.

After the restart, both teams exchanged promising chances. Julian Draxler tested Spain goalkeeper David de Gea with a long-rang effort, while Germany custodian Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied Isco from close range at the 56th minute.

Spain goalkeeper de Gea remained in the thick of things as he was on guard to defuse Ilkay Guendogan's well-placed shot on target with a diving save moments later.

However, both sides had to settle for the 1-1 draw as Toni Kroos' free kick rattled the woodwork before Jerome Boateng blocked Diego Costas shot on goal in the closing period.

"It was a very, very good test for both teams. We have gained many insights, however, both teams have some room for improvement," Germany head coach Joachim Loew said.

"It was a match of the highest level but I think we have had more and better chances. It has been a good test," Spain's Rodrigo Moreno said.

On Tuesday, Germany will encounter Brazil and Spain host Argentina for the next test match. Enditem