U.S. loses to Germany, but still advances to final 16

A US fan wears a US flag before a Group G football match between Ghana and US at the Dunas Arena in Natal during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 16, 2014.



BRAZIL -- Mission accomplished -- Team USA booked its place in the last-16 of the World Cup after escaping from one of the tournament's toughest groups.

Jurgen Klinsmann's men slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Germany in its final Group G game but still qualified despite Portugal defeating Ghana 2-1.

Thomas Muller's second half strike condemned the U.S. to defeat following a rain soaked contest in Recife.

But Cristiano Ronaldo's late strike for Portugal inflicted defeat on Ghana and ensured the U.S. qualified in second place on goal difference.

Much of the build up to the game centered around coach Klinsmann and the battle with his native Germany.

Klinsmann, who led Germany to the semifinals of the World Cup in 2006, enjoyed a stellar playing career on the international stage.