Miroslav Klose's record-equalling goal rescued a point for Germany as they drew 2-2 with Ghana in a thrilling Group G encounter at Estadio Castelão in Fortaleza.
Mario Gotze's early second half opener was cancelled by Andre Ayew a few minutes later before Asamoah Gyan put Ghana in the lead at the hour mark. But Klose came off the bench and levelled the scores with his first touch.
The tap-in was a milestone goal for the 36-year-old, who has now equalled Brazil legend Ronaldo's all-time record of 15 goals in the World Cup.
The game started with Christian Atsu testing Manuel Neuer with a well-struck effort in the 13th minute. The Germans soon responded as Mesut Ozil picked up Sami Khedira in a dangerous position near the box but the Real Madrid midfielder's effort went straight down to Fatau Dauda's throat.
Ghana again went close at the half-hour mark as Neuer was again tested by a venomous effort from Sulley Muntari. However, the Geman goalkeeper rose to the effort and palmed away the shot.
The first half ended with Mario Gotze getting a good chance to put Germany in the lead. However, the attacking midfielder's well-struck volley went straight at Dauda.
The Germans finally went ahead in the 51st minute through Gotze. Thomas Muller sent in an excellent cross into the box and Gotze, who made a smart run, found the net with a header that bounced in off his thigh.
However, Germany could not celebrate for long as Ghana found the equaliser just four minutes later through Ayew, who glanced his header past Neuer after connecting with Harrison Afful's cross.
Ghana piled more pressure on Germany soon after by getting a second through Gyan, who slotted the ball past Neuer after a good pass from Muntari.
And just when it looked like Germany were heading for their first defeat of the 2014 World Cup, Joachim Low introduced Klose in the 69th minute and the veteran striker made an immediate impact by grabbing the equaliser two minutes later.
Kroos' corner was flicked on by Howedes and the 36-year-old guided the ball home after freeing himself from his marker.
Check out the highlights of the match below:
