Germany match-winner Thomas Muller admitted the United States were a difficult team to breakdown after edging to a 1-0 victory in Recife last night.

The Bayern Munich midfielder took his tally to nine goals in as many appearances with his fourth World Cup strike.

That was enough to earn Germany top spot in Group G, with USA going through as runners-up.

“We were dominant,” said Muller.

“All the Americans did was sit back deep in their own half, and when that happens, it just becomes a patience game.”

USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann: “It’s huge for us to reach the last 16.

“We wanted at least a tie out of the game.

“Everyone said we had no chance, but we took that chance.”