US-Germany Semifinal

The United States have never failed to reach the final four of the Women's World Cup, and they can thank their captain for continuing that streak.

Against a dogged China, Carli Lloyd scored the lone goal of the match in Ottawa to seal a 1-0 win for Team USA.

"These are the moments I live for," Lloyd told reporters after the match. "Having the freedom to attack and do what I do best enabled me to create some chances."

US coach Jill Ellis was pleased with an outing that saw her charges rack up a 17-6 advantage in shots and enjoy 56 percent of possession.

"It was a highly energized performance," Ellis said. "We took care of the ball well, still created a lot of opportunities."

The US now moved into the semifinal in Montreal on July 1 against Germany, who owe a lot to keeper Nadine Angerer after beating France on penalties.

Angerer pumps up Germany

"It was a very intense match for everyone, mentally and physically," Angerer told DW after the match. "After the first half, I thought, if we don't step it up, we're going to get slaughtered. But we collected ourselves during the break and said, 'Now our quarterfinal can get underway.'"

The two teams were level at a goal apiece after 120 minutes, but Germany prevailed after Angerer saved the fifth French penalty.

"No one will be going to bed before three or four in the morning;" Angerer said. "After such a hardcore match, you're completely exhausted, but there's no way you can get to sleep because your body is full of adrenaline."

The Germans now have a few days to relax and get their adrenaline levels back to normal before facing fellow title favorites, Team USA.