Melanie Leupolz (8) of Germany scores her team's 3rd goal during the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup 2012 group D match between USA and Germany

AP

The United States was beaten 3-0 by defending champion Germany in Group D at the women's under-20 World Cup on Monday but still advanced to the quarterfinals.

After taking a 1-0 lead on a goal by Lena Lotzen in the first half, Germany doubled the advantage in the 54th minute when Lotzen scored again, pouncing on a rebound off a shot by Silvana Chojnowski, reports The Associated Press.

Melanie Leupolz scored from close range just two minutes later to give Germany a commanding 3-0 lead.

China beat Ghana 1-0 in Group D's other game. China and the United States both finished the group stage with four points but the Americans advanced thanks to superior goal difference.