Mario Goetze scored a superb extra-time winner as Germany beat Argentina 1-0 to become the first European team to win a World Cup held in South America on 13 July 2014 (Sunday).
Bayern Munich star Goetze struck in the 113th minute to finally break
Argentina's resistance as Lionel Messi's dream of emulating Diego
Maradona ended in defeat.Germany has now won four World Cups, putting the European powerhouses just one behind Brazil's record tally of five.
“It's unbelievable what we have achieved. Whether we have the best
individual player doesn't matter at all, you just need to have the best
team,” said delighted Germany captain Philipp Lahm. The decisive moment of the World Cup brimming with wonderful goals came in the close of the extra time with penalties looming
in front of 74,738 fans at Rio de Janeiro's famous Maracana Stadium.
Andre Schuerrle burst clear down the left flank and crossed for Goetze.
The 22-year-old took the ball on his chest and then volleyed past
Sergio Romero to spark delirium amongst the largely pro-German crowd.
 |
| winning goal by Mario Goetze in the 2nd half of extra time |
Germany
earned a much-deserved World Cup, finally topping a wonderful era for
this generation, who had lived the past eight years in the shadow of
Spain's imperious reign. It was a fitting passing of the baton. Germany also became the first European country to win a world title in the Americas, and only the second country after Brazil (1958, 2002) to win a World Cup outside their respective continent.
Awards
The following awards were given at the conclusion of the tournament:
Golden Ball : Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Golden Boot: James RodrÃguez (Colombia)
Golden Glove: Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Best Young Player: Paul Pogba (France)
FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Colombia
The Winner team Germany will be getting US$35 million as prize money.
