FIFA World Cup: Germany Defeat USA, Both Teams Qualify For Knockouts
Germany's single goal helped the side beat USA and top Group G of FIFA World Cup. Portugal's 2-1 win against Ghana in the other match of the group ensured USA too qualified for the next round.
Thomas Mueller scored his fourth goal of the World Cup on Friday as Germany defeated the United States 1-0 to win Group G ahead of the Americans, who also advanced to the knockout stage of the World Cup despite losing. (Germany vs USA matchcentre | Portugal vs Ghana matchcentre | Full standings | Complete coverage)
With two wins and a draw, Germany topped the group with seven points, while the U.S. progressed with four. Portugal beat Ghana 2-1 but both were eliminated.
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Mueller scored in the 55th minute with a side-footed shot from the edge of the area as tropical downpours drenched the Arena Pernambuco. (Match highlights)
Both teams knew before kickoff that a draw would see them through, but neither held back. The game pitted Germany coach Joachim Loew against his good friend and predecessor Juergen Klinsmann, now in charge of the U.S. team.