Germany defeats Brazil 2-0 to keep World Cup title

SHANGHAI, China (AP) -- Germany won its second straight Women's World Cup on Sunday, defeating Brazil 2-0 behind second-half goals by Birgit Prinz and Simone Laudehr.

Prinz scored in the 52nd minute and Laudehr added a cushion late in the game, helping Germany become the first women's soccer team to successfully defend its title in the World Cup or Olympics.

Brazil star Marta, who had seven goals in the tournament, had a chance to tie the game in the second half, but her penalty kick was stopped by diving German goalkeeper Nadine Angerer.

Germany managed to hold off flowing attacks by Brazil, which routed the United States 4-0 in the semifinal. In the third-place game Sunday, the U.S. defeated Norway 4-1 behind two goals by Abby Wambach.

Germany set several records in winning the top prize in women's soccer. Germany is the first team to go through a major senior competition without yielding a goal, outscoring the opposition 21-0.

Germany has not given up a goal in 619 minutes in World Cup play. The last goal was scored four years ago in the finals against Sweden. China held the old record of 442 minutes.