Germany penalise profligate US

World and European champions Germany added the Algarve Cup to their impressive trophy collection after a penalty shoot-out success against the United States at the Estádio Algarve, denying their opponents a fourth consecutive victory in the competition.

Crucial misses
Petra Wimbersky scored the decisive spot-kick to give Silvia Neid's team their first ever win in the tournament after Shannon Boxx and Abby Wambach had both failed with their efforts. The result was tough on the US, who forced Germany on the back foot for much of the game and squandered a number of good chances in the opening period.

American domination
After 15 minutes Aly Wagner shot just wide before she rattled the crossbar with an effort from the edge of the penalty area on the half-hour. Three minutes later, they saw another effort hit the woodwork - this time Carli Lloyd the unlucky player with captain Kristine Lilly unable to convert the rebound.

Rotherberg heroics
A minute before the break Boxx saw another chance for the holders go begging, Germany goalkeeper Silke Rotherberg making a remarkable save from a close-range volley. Penned into their own half for much of the encounter, Conny Pohlers forced Hope Solo into a fine stop with the European side's only real chance. The momentum remained with the US after the break, however, Wambach and Lilly forcing saves and substitute Lindsay Tarpley flicking the ball over the top with the goalkeeper stranded.

No breakthrough
With both sides failing to find a breakthrough after 90 minutes the match went to extra time and despite further dominance from the USA - Natasha Kai putting an acrobatic attempt wide - the match was ulimately decided by penalty kicks and Rotherberg was again the hero. She saved Boxx's effort while Wambach shot against the underside of the bar, allowing Wimbersky to confidently strike in the winning spot-kick.

German character
A delighted German coach Silvia Neid said: "We fought well and were a bit lucky with the US hitting the crossbar twice, but you make your own luck. The team showed good character and a big will to win the game, and in a penalty shoot-out anyone can win. I'm very happy."