Indianapolis ? George Karl sighed as he dug his fingers into his forehead, struggling to find the correct words to express his disappointment. Next to him sat Michael Finley, his chin resting on his fist and his eyes barely open.

The Americans were a picture of failure and frustration Thursday night after their second loss in two nights at the World Championships.

In yet another stunning outcome, Yugoslavia came back from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter and defeated the U.S. team 81-78. The loss ensured that there will be no medal gold, silver or bronze for the host team at the World Championships.

“Last night was much more discouraging. Tonight is disappointing,” Karl said.

After going 58-0 using NBA players in international competitions, the Americans have shockingly lost twice in a row.

The best they can do is finish in fifth place in this topsy-turvy tournament.

“Obviously it’s embarrassing, on our home turf. We have to walk away from it as a learning experience,” U.S. guard Andre Miller said.

Cheered on by a raucous crowd of flag-waving, frantic fans who drowned out the home country’s supporters, Yugoslavia advanced to the semifinals against New Zealand.

Miller had a chance to force overtime, but his long three-point attempt just before the final buzzer came up short.

Much like Argentina did after defeating the United States on Wednesday night, the Yugoslavs celebrated, danced and hugged at midcourt as the stunned U.S. team could only watch.

“I still think it’s a tremendous celebration of basketball,” Karl said. “You’re seeing the rest of the world playing better basketball, special basketball. I’m not sure it’s the end of an era so much as it’s a celebration of basketball.”

Peja Stojakovic, one of five NBA players on Yugoslavia’s roster, scored 20 points. Vlade Divac added 16, and Milan Gurovic had 15.