Ghana coach Ratomir Dujkovic was elated after seeing his side clinch a place in the last 16 of the World Cup with a 2-1 win over the United States.

The Black Stars finished second in Group E behind Italy as a result of the win, with Dujkovic eyeing further progress.

He said: "It was a historic match but a nervous one for both teams. We've done it and we're satisfied.

"This is a starting point for all Ghanaians, for this group of players and myself. The first time in the World Cup and we come in the top 16 in the world.

"We didn't play as we usually do but the USA are a hard-working team. They pushed us hard all the time. We're very satisfied and very happy."

Midfield ace Michael Essien, who will miss the second round tie as a result of a second booking of the tournament, added: "We did our best today.

"We did it for Ghana and the whole of Africa, so they should keep cheering us."

USA striker Brian McBride was downbeat after his side's elimination, saying: "It was a strange game. I felt we were in control for quite some time.

"They had very few chances but the ones they did get they scored.

"We hit a post. We stuck together and tried to push forward. If we had just got that second goal there's no telling what would have happened."