Madeline Gier needed just two minutes to open the scoring for the European side, turning in a Jana Feldkamp cross at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

The South Americans levelled, however, when Marian Speckmaier slotted past Carine Schlueter for a well deserved equaliser with 26 minutes played.

Parity could not be maintained until the break, however, as Gier scored her second on the stroke of the interval with a close range finish after Venezuela keeper Franyely Rodriguez could only parry a cross.

Germany have reached the final at the last three editions of the tournament and sealed the points in the Group D clash six minutes after the break, courtesy of Lea Schueller's finish from outside the area.

In the second match in Group D, Mexico saw off South Korea 2-0 at the same venue.

Jacqueline Crowther fired her country in front after 56 minutes with Kiana Palacios sealing the success late on.

In Group C, the United States, considered as many people's favourites for the title, had to settle for a 0-0 draw with France.

A superbly organised French defence kept the Americans at bay in the stalemate at the PNG Football Stadium.

The draw meant New Zealand's 1-0 victory over Ghana has sent them top of the group.

Substitute Tayla Christensen broke African hearts in the 89th minute as she rounded the keeper before slotting home for a late winner.

Papua New Guinea was officially confirmed as the host of the tournament over a year ago after world football’s governing body agreed to let the country host all matches in Port Moresby.

There were concerns that the country may be stripped of the event due to sub-standard facilities outside of the capital but the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) addressed FIFA’s fears and were given the all clear.

After a rest day tomorrow Groups A and B is due toresume on Wednesday (November 16).