Coach Joachim Low said Germany "dominated again" as his side eased into the round of 16 as Group G winners by beating the United States 1-0 on Thursday.
Germany controlled 63 percent of possession as the U.S. sat back in an attempt to preserve their advancement to the round of 16. The tactics proved successful as Portugal fell three goals short of catching the U.S. for second place.
"We were ready for a difficult match," Low said. "The team played well the first two matches and would've had the team to be a bit more active today.
"The other teams defended very deep and we dominated again today. We had a good organisation and setup. We knew we would have to fight."
The match offered Low an opportunity to coach against his former boss, U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who led Germany at the 2006 World Cup. After the match, Low praised the U.S. for advancing from a difficult group.
"This was a tough group and the Americans were outsiders," Low said. "I'm happy for the U.S. and this simply means that they have quality. They can fight, and are tough for the opponents.
"If you beat Ghana, draw Portugal, then you deserve to be in the Round of 16."
Thomas Muller's goal was the difference on Thursday, and Low said his forward is difficult for any defenders to handle.
"Thomas Muller is mentally very strong and is difficult for any opponent to figure out," Low said. "It's difficult to stand against him because he is a very smart player."
Muller's fourth goal of the tournament puts him level with Lionel Messi and Neymar at the top of the World Cup goal charts.
"It feels great when you know that you can rely on your abilities and you're so lucky that the match goes well," said Muller, who was named man of the match.
"I feel mentally and physically fit. I try to do my part in each match and I hope we go as far as possible. On the way there, of course, we have a couple of difficult matches ahead."
Low brought on Miroslav Klose for Lukas Podolski in the second half, saying the Arsenal man will benefit from the rest.
"Lukas over the last few weeks was very committed. He was in great shape," Low said. "I felt that he wasn't as interlinked with the team in the first half. He has played such a lot that he deserves a rest."