The Germans are three-time champions; the Argentines have won twice. Almost half of the 20 championship games have involved one of them, and for the third time, they are facing one another.
Finally Germany lifted the trophy with the help of Goetze, Mario Goetze produced the piece of individual skill that Lionel Messi couldn't muster.
Goetze, who wasn't born when West Germany beat Argentina in the 1990 final, controlled a cross with his chest in the 113th minute and in one fluid motion volleyed the ball past goalkeeper Sergio Romero and inside the far post from five yards out. It delivered Germany its fourth World Cup title, equal second with Italy on the list of all-time champions and just behind Brazil's five.
Finally Germany lifted the trophy with the help of Goetze, Mario Goetze produced the piece of individual skill that Lionel Messi couldn't muster.
Goetze, who wasn't born when West Germany beat Argentina in the 1990 final, controlled a cross with his chest in the 113th minute and in one fluid motion volleyed the ball past goalkeeper Sergio Romero and inside the far post from five yards out. It delivered Germany its fourth World Cup title, equal second with Italy on the list of all-time champions and just behind Brazil's five.