Germany triumph 2-0 over Brazil at the women's World Cup

SHANGHAI, Sep 30 (Reuters) A solid defence and clinical efficiency in front of goal allowed Germany to triumph 2-0 over a desperate Brazil to become the first back-to-back winners of the women's World Cup today.

German midfielder Simone Laudehr's headed goal in the dying minutes sealed the win, after evergreen captain Birgit Prinz had coolly slotted home a crossed ball early in the second half.

German keeper Nadine Angerer proved sublime in front of goal, maintaining her clean sheet for the tournament with several extraordinary saves in the second half.

Despite dominating possession, Brazil's talent-studded attack failed to breach the German defence, with breathtaking runs from Daniela and tournament top-scorer Marta repeatedly cut off at the last moment.

Germany's win follows their 2003 triumph over Sweden in Los Angeles.

Reuters SSC DB2110