Germany lift gloom with 4-1 win over United States

DORTMUND, Germany, Mar 23 (Reuters) Germany produced a sparkling second-half performance to beat the United States 4-1 in a friendly international and lift the host nation's pre-World Cup gloom.

Bastian Schweinsteiger floated over a free kick that evaded everyone and crept past Kasey Keller for the opener just seconds after coming on as a substitute in the 46th minute, although Miroslav Klose was originally credited with the goal.

Oliver Neuville blasted in a half-volley for 2-0 in the 73rd minute and four minutes later Klose tucked in the third goal as a U.S. team missing most of their European-based players wilted.

Michael Ballack headed the fourth from Klose's cross in the 80th minute and although Steve Cherundolo pulled one back with a fortunate goal five minutes from time the display will ease the pressure on coach Juergen Klinsmann considerably.

Germany get the World Cup underway with a Group A match against Costa Rica on June 9 in Munich.

Reuters DH VP0428