Gilles' set-piece goal gives Canada a rare win over Germany at Arnold Clark Cup

Centre back Vanessa Gilles' early goal lifted Canada past the third-ranked Germans, a 1-0 decision that moved the Olympic champions atop the standings at the four-team Arnold Clark Cup. It was only Canada's second win in 17 meetings (2-15-0) with Germany.

Centre back Vanessa Gilles' early goal lifted Canada past the third-ranked Germans, a 1-0 decision that moved the Olympic champions atop the standings at the four-team Arnold Clark Cup. It was only Canada's second win in 17 meetings (2-15-0) with Germany.

The sixth-ranked Canadian (1-0-1) women face No. 9 Spain (0-0-2) on Wednesday at Wolverhampton's Molineux Stadium with a chance to capture the inaugural tournament title. While Spain has yet to win at the four-team competition, it has impressed and Canada will have its hands full against the likes of world player of the year Alexia Putellas and her cohort.

With captain Christine Sinclair back home after the recent death of her mother, Adriana Leon unavailable through injury and Jordyn Huitema ruled out on the night for an undisclosed health issue, Canada coach Bev Priestman was short on options on attack. But Gilles, a force in the air, stepped up to provide all the offence needed.

The goal came in the seventh minute when Gilles headed home Janine Beckie's corner to open her international account. The Angel City FC defender soared above Klara Buehl before beating goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger with her downward header.