ENSCHEDE, Netherlands (AP) -- Freddy Adu added technical sparkle to a physical performance by the U.S. team in a 0-0 tie against Germany on Tuesday at the World Youth Championship.

The Americans, who upset Argentina 1-0 in their first match, have four points, trailing Germany on goal difference. Argentina beat Egypt earlier Tuesday to move to three points, while Egypt remains last with zero points




Adu, the youngest, smallest and lightest player on the field in the Group D game, set up teammate Eddie Gaven with a perfect pass in the 39th minute, but German goalkeeper Rene Adler smothered the first attempt from the MetroStars midfielder.

When Gaven went for the rebound, it looked as if he was pushed down by a German defender but the referee failed to give a penalty.

"I thought it was a PK," Gaven said, but blamed himself for not finishing off the first chance. "If I had made the first shot, there would have been no need for that."

German coach Michael Skibbe agreed it was a narrow escape.

"It was a situation where the referee can take the decision to give a penalty or not, and I am happy he did it the way he did," Skibbe said.

In a goalmouth scramble following the corner, Gaven again was denied by a sterling reflex save by Adler.

Adu, who missed a penalty shot in the opening win over Argentina, used his roving role much better Tuesday and often threatened with crosses as he pulled more of the game toward him.

"We played great and we were unlucky not to score," Adu said.

The United States, which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament, and Germany both moved closer to qualifying for the second round with the tie.

The Americans, who upset Argentina 1-0 in their first match, have four points, trailing Germany on goal difference. Argentina beat Egypt earlier Tuesday to move to three points, while Egypt remains last with zero points.