The host nation had come into the contest off the back of a thumping 9-1 victory against Switzerland in their opener yesterday but were given a much tougher test by a battling German team at the De Oosteveren Sport Hall.

After an even first half, the Dutch began to pull away in the second period and managed to edge over the winning line to maintain top spot on Group A.

"It was a tough match," Dutch coach Paul Mennink said.

"Germany is always tricky and it still gives extra pressure, just like football."

In the opening clash on day two, Italy secured a shock triumph as they defeated Belgium.

The Italians were considered the outsiders against the second seeds, who lost out to their Dutch neighbours of the final of the 2012 event, but proved too strong on the day as they emerged with an 8-6 victory in Group B.

Elsewhere in Group A, Switzerland bounced back from their loss at the hands of the reigning champions by thrashing Spain 14-4.

The result keeps their hopes of reaching the last four alive and they will take on Germany tomorrow in what could be a straight shoot-out for second place in the group behind the host nation.

Another six matches are scheduled for tomorrow.