Until today, I wasn’t aware a Women’s World Cup existed (or that the U.S. has twice hosted the FIFA championship), but thank goodness, since this year’s Germany-held event heralds a new single from former Spice Girl, Melanie C.

I admit I haven’t paid much attention to Melanie C since “I Turn To You” took over dance floors in 2000, thanks to Hex Hector’s urgent mix. “Rock Me” is something of a return to her dance-pop days, its catchy melody grounded by electric guitar. The song is being used to promote ZDF’s upcoming television coverage of the 2011 Women’s World Cup — how apropos for Sporty Spice — and serves as the first taste of Melanie C’s forthcoming fifth album, The Sea, out in early September.

The music video for “Rock Me” premiered yesterday. Filmed in Manchester in May, it features some fancy footwork of both the soccer (football) and dance varieties. (Also, graffiti is having a moment. I’m looking at you, Coldplay.)

“Rock Me” gets a single release in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on 6/24. No word on a UK or U.S. date, so why lament that fact even more by listening to a snippet of B-side, “Stop This Train.”

UPDATE 6/27: Melanie C’s “Rock Me” EP is now available via iTunes.

Fun fact: “Rock Me” isn’t the first Melanie C song to be associated with soccer (football). “I Turn To You” was featured in the 2002 film, Bend It Like Beckham, though it wasn’t included on the soundtrack.