World Cup Final Match of the Day Live

will face the might of Germany. It's seven!

Spain are out. What a fantastic goal!

Rio, a special place on the ground, but even more special from the air.

Brazil has always drummed to a different beat, but the drama, the

twists and turns, the sheer excitement of this World Cup, it's

simply been beyond what any of us could have hoped for. Even here,

some things have remained consistent and reliable. Never, ever write off

the Germans. COMMENTATOR: Mats Hummels is there!

Looking for Goetze. Found him all right. And it's in. Miroslav Klose

runs away to celebrate. Thomas Muller with a beauty. And then

there's the little man from Rosario, Argentina, about 1200 miles that

way. So many world-class players never get the chance to play on the

ultimate stage, but Lionel Messi gets his chance tonight. Even

without hitting his extraordinary heights in this competition so far,

he's dragged his team, his country up the mountain. And now, there's

just one summit left. COMMENTATOR: Give it to him and pray

- oh, he's done it! Who else, Lionel Messi. We know who the locals will

be supporting, tango doesn't get much of a look in around here

amongst the samba, there's no Brazilian beat here tonight

COMMENTATOR: Brazil are being humiliated. It's

seven. But this is where the 2014 World Cup will end, the pulsiating

heart of a nation, the Maracana. It is the World Cup final between

Germany and Argentina, a final that's been played out on two

previous occasions, in 1986 Diego Maradonna led Argentina to victory.

Four years later the Germans got their revenge with a 1-0 win.

Germany are playing in a record-breaking eighth final, hoping

to lift the trophy for the first time since the Berlin Wall came

down. It's a fifth final for Argentina. Winners on home soil in

1978 and of course, in Mexico, eight years later. Here with us for the

final Rio Ferdinand, Alan Shearer and for the very last time, Alan

Hansen. You've covered many tournaments, any Bert than this one?

-- any better than this one? Not a bad place to go Gary! This has been

the best by a mile. I said at the start of the tournament that we

needed something after the last two or three competitions have have been

substandard and as far as entertainment was concerned, haven't

been great. They needed something to elevate it to the best sporting

event in the planet. We've seen it here. It's exceeded all

expectations, the goals, the games, the excitement, the drama. When it's

come to the knockout stageds, there's been heartache, euphoria.

I'm a great believer that winning is everything but you have to have

excitement along the way. We've had that in We have abundance. Two

giants in the final. Absolutely, I think Germany, superbly organised.

They have a record goal scorer up front. Muller is in the form of his

life. Argentina, a lot of the talk about the tournament was about the

Fab Four, Messi, di Maria, Higuain, Aguero, but of course, it's been the

back four and the goalkeeper that have been their safior. Four clean

sheets -- safior. -- saviours. Four clean sheets. A tough test against

Germany, a Germany that has gradually got better including that

astounding result in the semifinal. Earlier in the tournament they did

enough just to get through. As the tournament has gone to the last

stages, they've started to command games, dictate the pace of games and

I think that's what the Argentineans won't be expecting to command this

game or dictate the pace. I think they'll be looking to hit Germany on

the counterattack. That's their best bet with the players they have in

attacking areas. Germany will come out and do what they've done, trying

to attack, break teams down How big early. An advantage is it for

Germany to have had an extra day's rest and essentially a pretty

comfortable semifinal? The biggest thing is that you will pick up

injuries along the way. They will have done that. That extra day is

huge. Have you time to get in the ice bath, to rehabilitate your

muscles. It's an extra day. Wur doing loads of things to -- you're

doing loads of things preparing. They will be ready to go out there

and do the job. They are often tight affairs, finals. We could do with

one that's quite open, I suspect it won't be. It will be a cagey affair.

It could be a long evening. Two very, very good teams. Two very

different teams. A lot has relied on Messi for Argentina. He's produced

the goods, most of the time. Had a quiet time in the semifinal. But

Germany are the best team. It's the best team against the best player. I

think where Messi has struggled is where the teams have doubled up on

him. I don't think the Germans will. They might, but I'd be surprised

because I think the Germans will feel they can win this game. The

Argentineans have a great defensive record with Mascherano just from

front. An early goal and quids Rio has in. Been invaded by Argentinian

supporters this weekend hoping to see their side lift the World Cup

for a third time. They heavily outnumber the German fans, although

I suspect the locals will be cheering for the men in white. Our

man just a few miles from the fan park is Jason Mohammed. A truly

fantastic atmosphere here. Can you see the Argentina fans are here.

Where are you from? SanJuan. How excited are you? Excited and

confident Are you also. Going to lift the cup Yes of today? Course,

we have leanel. There -- Lionel. I think we can win this What would

cup. It mean to lift the trophy in Brazil? This is the dream of every

Argentinian. These guys have something to say

about that. Where are you from? Manchengladbach. I love Brazil. I'm

sure we take the fourth star today. I want you to meet this couple. They

look like German fans, but they're from Brazil. Why are you supporting

Germany? Because of the Germany. Same colours. Despite the fact that

Germany absolutely battered the host company. Yes, Brazilian has the best

soccer in the world, nowadays the Germans are playing the best soccer.

I don't think there are any Argentineans left in Argentina,

they're all here. SINGING

There is a fabulous and very friendly atmosphere right around Rio

de Janeiro. This has been one of the best world cups ever. Dan walker

reflects on a magnificent festival of football.

Questions, questions, could the five-time winners give us a World

Cup to remember? Statistics, logistics - sceptics said no. Brazil

said yes. This was different, the old kings quickly lost their crown.

COMMENTATOR: Spain are out. And what of England? Youthful vigour, yes,

but home long before bedtime. In the mighty jungle, the lions fell

asleep. COMMENTATOR: Balotelli is going to

get there. Zblt nightmare never stopped.

COMMENTATOR: Oh, Suarez has knock today in. He can dribble,

COMMENTATOR: Oh, Suarez has knock nibble. But this party isn't all you

can eat. We saw the two sides of another star, Robben the rogue.

Robben the ruthless, Robben the reliant. It was a World Cup of

wonderful number ones. Terrific save. Keepers, sweepers, swappers.

None shall pass. Saved, brilliantly saved. Football was frantic. Goal

after seemingly endless goal as the records came tumbling. Miroslav

Klose records came tumbling. Miroslav

record goal scorer. The world's most powerful nation fell in love with

the world's most powerful game. For the first time, two African sides

strode into the last 16, but their light was soon extinguished. We saw

the very best from the very best. He dance as way and he scores! Lionel

Messi. Messi on his way to the Maracana, the two together again.

His is not the only left sided one to weave and leave his magic.

His is not the only left sided one even loved by the locusts. His team

had class, style. Perfect rhythm, while others were dancing aloan and

had class, style. Perfect rhythm, left the stage without -- alone and

left the stage without an encore. Wood work, hard

left the stage without an encore. warmed the world up. Neymar broke

his back, but the broken Brazilian hearts will take much longer to

heal. Mullered. Humiliated, humbled and taken apart. Germany will always

remember. Brazil try hard to forget. and taken apart. Germany will always

Andre Schurrle, it's seven! We wept, we roared, we sang. They sang.

Andre Schurrle, it's seven! We wept, sprayed. They prayed. We watched.

Andre Schurrle, it's seven! We wept, watched. Millions of viewers.

Millions of fans. 32 nations down to just two. The best team against the

best player, only one can go home happy.

Indeed. Tone was set for this tournament right at the start with

that remarkable game between Holland and Spain. It went from there. Yeah,

we thought oh, it's not going to get better than this. Then the 7-1 as

well. We've had fantastic goals, great players emerging. For me,

playing in World Cups and coming here as part of this team, being

able to go out and see the fans and locals and how the different nations

are merging together, a carnival atmosphere. Very friendly as well.

Exactly. You don't see that as a player. You're in a hotel,

concentrating on the football and getting ready for each game. This is

so different and I've had a fantastic time. They've host today

brilliantly. That game, that five when Holland beat Spain, I thought

that was it. It set the tone. I thought that game won't be beaten.

But that semifinal was just absolutely incredible. Let's not

forget England, how great we were. Then the you had the underdogs,

Costa Rica were terrific. When you looked at their side and the

personnel in the side and you think, the lesser players usually will be

men behind the ball and defend deep and it will be a bore, but they had

quality as well in the final third. They didn't score a lot of goals,

but real quality and were a joy to watch. Even in the cagey games, the

tight games, the games that were perhaps in some ways dull ended up

exciting affairs, whether it was a penalty shootout, dramatic extra

time. It slowed down a little bit after the group stages and I couple

of games were 0-0. Even the extra time were just brilliant games.

There's always been something significant to talk about in most of

the games. Then even the norm was if you had a relatively bad game, the

next game you could bet your life was going to be sensational. Let's

hope the final lives up to the rest of the tournament. Argentina winning

tonight is every Brazilian's worst nightmare. Brazil's campaign started

brightly but ended in humiliation, thrashed by Germany on Tuesday,

defeat in the third place play-off yesterday has done little to ease

the pain. Will this be Luiz Felipe Scolari's

last game in charge? His CV is now tainted by the defeat to Germany.

It's probable lit end of the road for some of his squad.

Robben is pulled back. Penalty kick. Had to be.

Referee deciding it is inside the penalty area. After 90 seconds the

Dutch are awarded a spot kick. Arjen Robben was flying away. Robin Van

Persie can put the Netherlands in front here. 1 off #. -- 1-0. Super

cool penalty kick from Robin Van Persie. Good penalty. Arjen Robben

here. Van Persie arriving in the middle. Luiz away. It's 2-0.

Terrible defending by Brazil. David Luiz clearing heading straight to

Bulletined and it's in the back of the net. The home fans are silenced.

No foul by Dan. Good overlapping run. 3-0. Always been a suspicion

that Brazil would be armed on on the break and that's exactly what has

happened. Bash macro under armed. Brazil's World Cup is over and the

boos rained down on the selection and on Scolari. (STUDIO) they

imploded. Whilst they weren't brilliant early on, they completely

lost it from the semifinal onwards. Neymar and Thiago Silva being out

totally destabilise them. Emotionally, with the T-shirt with

Neymar on, it took too much out of them. We spoke about their defence

earlier in the tournament, as soon as they went up in quality, we saw

their weaknesses. I don't think enough of their defenders want to

defend. Conceding ten goals in two games. The way they capitulated,

I've never seen anything like it. They just gave up and collapsed. I

thought you were going to say you can't win anything with Fred! He was

useless. To wait so long to have the World Cup finals in Brazil and be

beaten 7-1... I was distraught myself! A great game to watch, but

unreal. I look at it and I think a country of this size, I look at the

centre forwards, I've had my say about Fred, but how can they not

produce a guy who can give them good quality, hold up the ball, run into

the corners? You see better players on the beach! Their midfield and

their forward line is the most unattractive in terms of football

flair you will ever see in a Brazil shirt. The first time they've lost

back-to-back home games since 1940. Without Neymar they had no flair

going forward. You still never saw 7-1 coming. Absolutely not. Four

goals in six minutes to go 5-0 down. Everybody was in total disbelief. I

did! You said it would be a tight game. Picking the team of the

tournament isn't easy, but we thought we would try. Mark Chapman

-- Mark Chapman cheddar discussion to pick a BBC 11.

Before we get to the players you've picked, the first thing you have to

do is whether you will have a back three or back four. You've gone with

a back three. If the majority go with a back four, you have to change

your side. Who is your keeper? Noye. He's the best the world. -

Manuel Neuer. The same. The full package. Right back?

Manuel Neuer. The same. The full best right back in the world. Never

gives it away, perfect full-back. He can defend, attack, that tackle in

the semifinal, perfectly timed, that some Tim up. Left back. Rodriguez,

Switzerland. Blind. Competition going on! He's an all-round

footballer and he is a must. Centre halves? Gonzalez of Costa Rica. And

how moles of Germany. Especially for the performance against France. -

Hummels. Thiago Silva brought them together and organise them. Thiago

Silva missed the semifinal. Take him out! The next six will be very

fluid. Mascherano, Toni Kroos, Rodriguez playing behind the

striker. I saw Mascherano for the first time playing for the Argentina

under 20 side and the harder it is, first time playing for the Argentina

the more he likes it. He's been sensational. You could take any one

of the German midfielders and you'd sensational. You could take any one

be happy. Have you all got Rodriguez? Yes, goal of the

tournament. Mascherano and Rodriguez. Who else? Mola up top and

they can all move around and do Rodriguez. Who else? Mola up top and

they want. - Muller. There hasn't been an outstanding centre forward.

Neymar had two excellent games and I think quite order was more important

in more games. No Neymar. Messi hasn't

in more games. No Neymar. Messi deep for Argentina. I've gone for

Thomas Muller up top. No doubt that without Messi Argentina would have

been out a long time ago. Who else have you got alongside Muller? Just

him, Rodriguez behind. Robben on the left. Muller has been consistent,

the chances he's created along left. Muller has been consistent,

the goals and his ridiculous workrate. Messi backed up by James

pulling the strings. One Midfield Place alongside Mascherano and one

right-winger. - midfield player. Schweinsteiger. Kroos. One winger.

Robben. It looks like he will hurt you. I'm not sure he warrants being

in there, others have been better. He was on fire. I can go with

Robben. Neuer, Lahm, Gonzales, Hummels, blind, Mascherano and

Kroos, Robben, Rodriguez, Messi and Muller. Can't argue with that. Can

we do this again on Monday morning after the final? Very attacking

line-up. You were having your afternoon nap. I watched them

filming fat and I got bombed out. You've got your chance now, do you

disagree with that? Kompany is the best centre-back. I thought he was

excellent. That would be the one change. Ron Vlaar! I'd get him in

instead of Gonzales. You just picked the team! We'll have another

discussion at the end of the final. We can now hear from David Beckham

who's here in re-over the final. - in Rio for the final. Beckham! It's

in! Beckham has scored for England. Great to see you again. Do you think

it's the best World Cup you can remember, either playing in

watching? Without a doubt. I've loved every World Cup, even 98.

People question that. There is nothing better than playing in a

World Cup. Where will the final B won and lost? It will be won by a

big moment, big player. I am a big fan of line all. - Messi. Germany

have a group of players that are great players and they perform so

well together and they have done for a number of years. They are a really

strong team. Footballers always want the best players to be at the

biggest events. You don't want a World Cup to be held without them,

particularly when they do what Luis Suarez did. I don't need to say

anything about what he did. He knows. I look at him as a player and

he's a huge talent. It's a shame he's leaving the Premiership because

the Premiership needs teams like him, players with character and

passion. It's sad to see him leaving. What is your assessment of

what went wrong? Small margins or a bigger problem? Roy has brought

young players into the team with a few experienced players. In the

future we will perform really well. When you look at the way the World

Cup worked out for Steven Gerrard, can you look at him as a captain and

feel he hasn't delivered or can you look at him as a captain and

case of just not working out? You definitely don't blame one player

for the early exit. I know as England captain you feel the weight

of expectation and the responsibility. When you are England

captain, you take that on board and Stevie knows that. You could see his

pain. I hope he continues as England captain. You've got to love Becks!

He knows a thing or two about our next subject. There have been four

penalty shoot outs in this World Cup. Two of the last five finals

have gone to shoot outs. We've prepared with a man who has taken a

few in his time. Representing your country and the whole nation is

watching, and the pressure is huge. Imagine there are 50,000 people

around you, you're walking from the halfway line to the penalty spot,

take it through what's in your mind. This is where your mind starts to

play tricks. What should you do? It's a very long walk and there are

a million things going through your mind. Try to stay calm, although you

can feel your heart beating faster. You have to believe in what you've

trained to do. And you have to stay in control of the situation. Looking

at the keeper? No. He will try mind games, we saw it with Tim Krul. He

was trying to get into their heads. I would have stood ten yards outside

the box and waited for Tim Krul to go back in his goal. Stay in

control. I always used a line up the ball and look at the opposite side

to where I was going to put it. I would always look to the

goalkeeper's left knowing I would go to the right. The valve at the top,

don't ask me why, I just had to do that. You already know where you're

going to put it and you should never change your mind. The Germans have a

word for the process of taking a penalty. It means strength of nerve,

nerves of steel. They aren't bad at it! If you're going to make sure you

score a penalty... I would rather wear a Sunderland shirt! What is the

last game that goes through your mind? Don't miss!

And then the walk back is better than the walk down. Two arms, unit

that from someone! You are under more stress than ever before and

they don't even count on your record. We have to get that changed.

Bobby Charlton wouldn't like that. Despite their success in this

competition, Germany are looking to end 24 years of hurt by lifting the

World Cup for the first time since beating Argentina in 1990. Their

victory over Brazil was quite possibly the most remarkable result

in World Cup history, but will count the little if they fail to winter

night. In the lexicon of football, thousands of words have been written

on the spirit of the game in this nation of that. One notable section

looks a little sparse. Because this isn't a romantic tale. You've heard

of boy meets girl, this is more boilie meets strategic grassroots

funding, good governance, learning. - boilie meets.

In 2010 we played decent football, sometimes very attractive, but

without delivering. The guys have matured and they know how to get a

result. It might not make for a blockbuster page turner, which is a

pity because German success could shouldn't be anything other than a

cause for celebration. It would also be a victory for humility and

respect. Bellow horizontal, Tuesday, half-time.

This was winning in the grand manner in every sense of the term. And the

knowledge month that a grieving Brazilian public had seen billions

diverted to pay for and finally build this World Cup. The land of

the last minute didn't expect to be 5-0 down after 29. We've been

brought up like this because in our history we couldn't afford to show

any kind of arrogance. We've been told don't humiliate people. It

would also be a victory back home for a packed stadium, cheap tickets

to watch home-grown players who also happen to be some of the most

skilled footballers on the planet. The current player of the year

dreamt of carrying his nation all the way and no posters ever needed a

World Cup triumph like Brazil. Fantastic storylines thrown on the

fire and now the world's finest talent of all could also see his

wildest fantasy go up in flames. Another polite act from this very

decent group of dream wreckers. Four Germans have been nominated for

the Golden en Ball. Ozil has created more chances than

any other German player. Up front Klose makes his 24th World Cup

appearance. He's the only player who was involved in the 2002 final.

Alan, you are focussing on the right was involved in the 2002 final.

side of the German side. They're a very strong side. Down the right

side, whether very strong side. Down the right

Kroos, in particular, Phillipp Lahm, they link up incredibly well.

They want to get into the space as much as they can. When

They want to get into the space as there, they want to deliver. It's

nice, neat, tidy. there, they want to deliver. It's

one-touch football. They're all moving, looking for the ball. They

all want the ball in, out, through. Very unlucky, with the thought to

get into the final third. pop to the Maracana, Clarence is

there alongside Jason. Thank you very much. A very good

evening to you. Welcome. The Argentinian fans have wasted no time

in mocking their Brazilian rivals. They're here. Where are you, they're

sing. They've been singing it at the beach all weekend. Good evening to

you, great to see you. I remember last year, when we met at the

Confederations Cup you said to me, the team that gets to the final an

the team that may win it is the team that gets it right on the pitch and

off the pitch. That team, Clarence, you were right is Germany. They

built their own training venue. They've been impeccable on and off

the pitch. Absolutely. Argentina have done their job as well. Great

players up front of course. It's going to be a great final. How do

Argentina stop the German machine? Well, I think this is the hardest

match for the Germans. Arg tona showed against Holland that they

have a very solid defence that they can defend very well in their own

half. Up front, we don't have to explain how dangerous they can be.

It is going to be very, very interesting to see how the Germans

will find the spaces. The big question that lots of people have

been talking about over this weekend is Lionel Messi. For many people he

is one of the great of the of all time -- greatest of all time. That

is guaranteed. If he wins the World Cup, do we start talking about Messi

in the same breath as Pele and Maradona? You know, they always have

to finish their career to make those kind of statements. But for sure

Messi is incredibly busy with going in that way. He achieved this final,

finally. He achieved a great performance in a few games in this

tournament. He scored finally also in a World Cup. Let's see was going

to happen. I think he's going to be brilliant today. I think he's going

to score today. Still, I think, the Germans normally, normally should

win this game. We'll talk more at halftime. Thank you very much. Gary,

a chilling message from the Germany coach, Joachim Low, in the news

conference, he says, "We're here to win the final and dominate world

football for years to come." Nothing new there then! They mentioned

Lionel Messi and he's been the man largely responsible for Argentina's

presence. The Argentinian genius is attempting to repeat the feat of an

Argentinian genius. Ten years ago, Spain wanted to call

up a tiny, timid youngster from the Barcelona academy. Lionel Messi's

response - I'm Argentine. Another old boy, briefly, was Messi.

Like so many in this city, his skills were honed with endless hours

playing on the Rosario streets. Always shy, always brilliant and

always compared to Maradona. As far as Argentines are concerned, he is

always in his shadow. Messi has shown signs of World Cup

greatness in this tournament. But there's only one outcome that will

cement his place in Argentine hearts.

We shall see shortly. There is the little genius. He's got four goals

in this tournament. He's not been quite as dominant in a lot of games

as perhaps we've seen in his days at Barcelona. Even in the semifinal, I

was at that game, he was pretty static for large parts of it. He's

always capable of something. static for large parts of it. He's

had the magic moments. I static for large parts of it. He's

Germans, they'll be looking to represent lip Kate what the Dutch

done. They crowded represent lip Kate what the Dutch

bodies in the way. They wouldn't let represent lip Kate what the Dutch

him get in the zone in the midfield. him get in the zone in the midfield.

He wants to run at them and cause problems. As a midfielder, Khedira,

they have to get back and help the defenders. The defenders will delay

him and the midfielders can help. One on one he can beat you like

here. See you later. You have to be diligent in your work, get back,

double up. He's capable of going past anyone on the planet one V one.

You double up and he's not as exciting and goes back. That's what

he was about, the Dutch done that very, very well and smothered him.

I've got a couple of stats. We talked about Thomas Muller br. I

know you love stats -- Thomas Muller before. I know you love stats. He's

covered 69,000 metres, Messi 52, he's not working as hard as in

previous times. He used to be a explosive player.

previous times. He used to be a too much from him? I watched him in

the early rounds and saw him score four goals, three world class,

the early rounds and saw him score got us off our seats. His passing is

incredible. He's got assists to go with that. I agree, he looked static

in the semifinal, with that. I agree, he looked static

scores the with that. I agree, he looked static

of the tournament. Nobody with that. I agree, he looked static

setting a team up against the Argentineans, you're doubling up on

Messi. Of course that should provide space elsewhere, but the great times

he had in this tournament is when he goes past the first man and the

second man isn't waiting. When the second one is waiting, he's tugled a

bit. He -- struggled a bit. Will the Germans do that today? I'm not sure

they will. We have seen wonderful moments from him. He's created more

chances than anyone at this tournament. If he gets the ball

higher up the pitch, and starts facing the back four, he will cause

problems, skipping past people. He gets his head up. Doesn't come off

here at end of it. But he's causing havoc in the Swiss back four. The

players here, look, everyone comes to him. That creates space for other

players. He sees that, goal. Assist. to him. That creates space for other

Devastating. This is the pass of the tournament. He gets his head up,

sees that. How he see that's pass, I don't know. The likes of him and

Maradona are probably the only people who can play that and are

devastating dribblers as well. And you, ruo! He -- Rio! He see that's

type of stuff clear, other players it goes hazy. But he does. I was at

this game. This was brilliant. I came to that game to see him do

something, have that. I mean, he's brilliant. That's beautiful. That

something, have that. I mean, he's pace is frightening. You can't

defend against it. He doesn't even have to beat you. It's a sign

defend against it. He doesn't even great player. Stand here and I'll

put it round you. He does more than anyone else. Maradona and he can see

passes, dribble. Here change of direction, see you later. Come back

together and I'm gone. That's watt kids want to see. YouTube is about

skills. This is his time. What a kids want to see. YouTube is about

chance he's got. That is in that box, the World Cup trophy. It's

being carried out by Carlos Pugol and Guselle. -- Guiselle.

It's only 12 irchls high. -- Inches high. I think the other guys haven't

performed. Aguero, Higuain, one goal. They haven't helped him a

great deal either. I think Lavezzi, this could be a good game for him.

He has the legs to get behind the Germans.

And here is the Argentinian team. The Germans believe that Mascherano

is Argentina's key player and Schweinsteiger says he is the leader

of a pack of Wolves. Messi has never scored in a World Cup knockout

match. Higuain has not hit top form in Brazil but he got the crucial

strike against Belgium. Mascherano, one of the great holding players in

world football. Without a shadow of a doubt. He has pace, a wonderful

tackle, anticipation, and he can pass as well. The complete midfield

player. This is timed to perfection. This against the Dutch was one of

the great performances, reading it, picking it up, possession is king,

never give it away. He looks, looks, and what a past that is. The great

players, the great passers in world football would be happy with that.

Again, not giving it away, looking all around, produces an inch perfect

pass again. This is what he's best at. Six Argentinian defenders in the

picture and he's in near the penalty spot. He's blocking, coming right

across. Spotting the danger and eliminating it. An absolutely

magnificent piece of play. Coming up, without a shadow of a doubt, the

tackle of the tournament. Seven or eight yards away from Arjen Robben.

Perhaps Arjen Robben should hit it earlier but to time that tackle to

perfection was masterful, brilliant play. I suppose that's five the

Argentinian defence and goalkeeper have been so good. He is a

defender's dream. I had Michael Carrick read the game in front of me

at Manchester United and that was a dream for a defender. But the first

thing he does is sniff out danger and snuff it out. The free kick is

for Germany have been hugely important in this World Cup and they

scored from a lot of set pieces. They have scored from five. This

does not just happened. It is from work on the training ground. Mats

Hummels goes in, Klose is blocking David Luiz for the run around the

back. Look at Klose blocking David Luiz. He realises but too late.

Muller has the space. They are very dangerous from set pieces whether it

is Muller or Mats Hummels. Dangerous. World Cup finals offers

players the chance to achieve footballing immortality. Thierry

Henry at pays homage to some of those who have triumphed on the

world 's biggest stage. What does it take to be a World Cup

legend? For me, if you want to go down in history you have to perform

in big games. It obviously helps if you win, but as long as you

perform, people always remember. Pele! Number three.

The walk up is the biggest thing for me that you can play in. -- the

World Cup. Especially if you are supposed to be that player that can

make the team win. People start to talk about you, other teams are

aware of your quality. You are going to get it, people will try to upset

you and take you out of the game but you need to do one thing, make sure

you don't let your team down. It is not only about scoring goals.

Beckenbauer with a delicate chip nearly surprises the goalkeeper. As

long as you can have an impact in the game people always recognise

that. When you have players of quality around you you become a

better player because of it. It is difficult to put your finger on it.

They have that little thing extra that will make them perform.

Ronaldinho! They are great players, obviously, but it is up there, how

will you perform under pressure when you know the world is watching? But

we have a legend already in this World Cup? We will see. We have 90

minutes ago. You might have a guy like Zinedine Zidane, he did not

score a goal before the final, then he came up with two goals and the

rest is history. So don't choose one yet. Wait until the final.

GARY LINEKER: The final is here, of course. And there is a great player,

without question. Walking down the tunnel. Will this be his day of

reckoning? We will find out. Somebody once said that great

players win football matches and great teams win tournaments. The

perfect example of one against the other.

ALAN HANSEN: Exactly, this is Messi's time. If ever he needed a

performance, that he alone in this Argentinian side could give, it is

right now. I think the Argentina 's side could win this. I think the

Germans were great in the semifinal but before that I was not that

impressed. They play a high line and leave space behind and that is a big

weakness. I would like to see him have a fantastic game. Some of the

moments we have seen before. His have a fantastic game. Some of the

great goals, that is what we want to see and it does not get bigger than

this. For him to be placed alongside Maradona and Pele, he has to to win

this game. I think everybody tuning in except the Germans and except

most Brazilians will want to see this man. They want to see him

produce a world-class performance and take this trophy with both hands

by himself. I think it will be difficult. I'm with the Germans

myself, as a team I think they are strong and commanding with a lot of

experience and I think they will get themselves over the line. A very

good team and they have a different goal-scorers, that tells them they

are a team. We said before the game that we wanted it to be a spectacle

and an early goal would help that. The World Cup final, Germany against

Argentina at Maracana. Your commentators are Mark Lawrenson and

Guy Mowbray. GUY MOWBRAY: Thanks, Gary. You have

been closer than most of us, but imagine how that feels. A group of

players about to realise the dream, a moment when the money really does

not matter. Look into the eyes. From the parks and playing fields to the

professional game, One of that number about to

the iconic Maracana field, Miroslav Klose, this is his chance to secure

a World Cup. Before the game we will have the national anthems of Germany

and Argentina. When all of the have the national anthems of Germany

the supporters from the two countries that have travelled to Rio

de Janeiro, their anthems will never sound so sweet.

# Danach lasst uns alle streben Bruderlich mit Herz und Hand

# Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit Sind des Gluckes Unterpfand

# Bluh' im Glanze dieses Gluckes Bluhe, deutsches Vaterland. #

ARGENTINA NATIONAL ANTHEM - INSTRUMENTAL

CHEERING APPLAUSE

GUY MOWBRAY: It will hurt Brazil hearing the Argentinian national

anthem ring gained out loud and proud around their national stadium,

their temple of football. It is time for Germany against Argentina part

three in finals terms, a record. We hope for something more like 1986

and a little less of 1990. The heads of state are in position. It was to

be the same German team for the final that beat Brazil in the

semifinal, but spare a thought for Sami Khedira who was injured in the

warm up. A first competitive start for 23-year-old De Rossi

Moenchengladbach man, Christoph Kramer. -- by Russia

Moenchengladbach. Miroslav Klose will be here for what

will surely be his final World Cup appearance. Three of his record 16

goals have come against Argentina in the last two tournaments. Nicola

Rizzoli has the honour of REFEREE: The biggest game, let's hope he has

a more routine job than Howard Webb last time around.

Angel Di Maria pulled up in training yesterday so won't be risked. Enzo

Perez will feature again. Sergio Aguero is only among the substitutes

again. This is a team yet to concede a goal in the knockout stages. It is

a team all about Mascherano to stop them, and Messi to star. The

proudest moment in the coaching careers of Joachim Low and Alejandro

Sabella. Both cut their teeth as national team assistants before

promotion. They are both looking for greater honours than their previous

incumbents. One of the modern wonders of the

world. What a setting for a game that promises so much.

The stars are out and ready to shine.

Everything is set for the 20th World Cup final. WHISTLE

The ultimate contest in the game and one of the ultimate teams against

another a lot more reliant on one particular talent. This is the

fourth time I've seen Argentina live, and they scrap for everything.

I think they will need some magic from the aforementioned little

fellow to win today. They've had a day less to prepare.

They won't be as fresh as the Germans. If you look at the Germany

game against Brazil, they only had to play for about 25 minutes, so a

massive difference. It went from 1-0 to 5-0 in under

seven minutes. They will find this Argentina defence harder to pick

through. Yeah, especially with Mascherano in front of them. They

start with Perez on the left, Lewandowski on the right. Higuain --

Lavezzi on the right. They tried to play a tricky one

through to Klose. Argentina very deep in the early stages.

Demichelis gave it away. Mascherano has only managed to move

that up to Muller. He claims he was blocked. Yes, the referee agrees.

That's a daft foul as well. Just clatters into the back of him.

There can be the touch of the reckless about Marcos Rojo. In two

years in Portugal he has seen five red cards, three of them last

season. red cards, three of them last

They score from set pieces, don't they, Germany? They have been doing.

More from the wider positions into the box, but they'll fancy this.

Committee meeting first. A smile on Schweinsteiger's face is

telling. Ramiro has kept three clean sheets.

He's hard to beat. So are Germany when it comes to free kicks.

This is interesting. What happens next.

They're all in the queue. Not a lot. A bit dancing round your handbag

really. Hummels has to retreat. Neuer wasn't entirely sure of where

his line was. It goes for a Germany throw. Argentina's first sorte into

opposition territory and they look dangerous. And from a very poor

German free kick. You could hear the change in noise

around the stadium as soon as You could hear the change in noise

men in blue broke forward. Argentina have by far and away the lion's

share of support, even though have by far and away the lion's

from Brazil are behind the They've come across the border in

any way they could. They're sleeping anywhere and everywhere. It's been

They'll be hoping for an Argentinian an Argentinian takeover.

They'll be hoping for an Argentinian take away, won't they? They aren't

the favourites. Might be worth

the favourites. last World Cup here, the only

previous World Cup final here, Brazil came into it

previous World Cup final here, seven past Sweden and six against

Spain. Then they lost as favourites to Uruguay.

Here's Ozil. Muller. Nearly came back to Ozil. He looked to

out, Muller, actually. It's a good deflection back to the

goalkeeper. The referee just saying that he

couldn't really get out of the way. The last touch was a German one. It

will be an Argentine throw. That's unfortunate there.

Senor Rizzoli, this is his fourth game at the tournament.

The noise around the place now, you could be watching BocaJuniors,

astonishing. Muller might get onto that.

It is Martin Demichelis who comes across to stop him in no uncertain

terms. A little bit worried that Argentina

down the left-hand side, that's three occasions, they're all coming

down here. Muller was there. Lahm has nobody opposing him at all.

Kroos dictating a lot of the passing in the German midfield. They look

sharp, Germany. Sharp and measured. They won't hurry

it. Can you see

it. out of every player in white.

it. -- you can see the confidence oozing

out of every player in white. Hummels was a doubt. Problem with

his left knee. But taken off at halftime against Brazil purely a

precaution. Look at the room Phillipp Lahm

There was no way through for Kroos. Messi will leave Hummels in his wake

here. He found Schweinsteiger in the way.

Messi was a little bit tired, someone was saying. Waky, waky.

Not now. There has been a feeling that he's

been saving something special.. We hope. So

-- something special. We hope so. Demichelis came out into the pocket

again. Demichelis came out into the pocket

The whistle has gone for a free kick. That wasn't the pinching the

ball off Messi, it was the first challenge by Hummels, I think.

Brilliant, though. He almost stops and then goes again. Hummels is

trailing in his wake. Perez was waiting. Higuain was the

man further over. In between the two of them! Turned

clear by Muller. Great play by Zabaleta. We haven't

seen him come forward that often in this competition.

Biglia had time to line it up there. He took plenty of time.

Decent block too by the Schalke man. Yeah, it was. We haven't got a ball

at the moment. There is a spare special final ball.

There's the man most consider to be the world's best goalkeeper, having

to keep out The Many think is the world's best player and co.

Now Argentina down their right posing problems. We thought it might

be cagey and lack pace early on. Not a bit of it. Certainly not.

Zabaleta hung Rhyl into the tack -- hungrily into the tackle. He doesn't

really tackle any other way. Kramer is playing a little bit

further forward than Khedira would be, certainly from that point of

view, it's given the Argentineans a little bit of problems when he tries

to come off the front man. Messi comes back to help out

defensively. Germany get the throw. Demichelis stout stuff. Yeah,

Demichelis just read it a Demichelis stout stuff. Yeah,

second before close close close. He just -- Miroslav Klose. He just did

enough to put him off. I think they might have conceded a

key free kick here. It's in the back of Klose. I'm not

sure it's a foul, is it? A little late.

It is another free kick in a very promising position for Germany.

Zabaleta read it. Germany's throw.

It squirted awkwardly off the head of Demichelis, the sun in his eyes.

Yeah, he Jess -- gesticulats that. fascinating to watch from the German

players. That was unlucky, it was meant for Muller. He came out around

the back. meant for Muller. He came out around

Perez tries to run away. That's twice they have broken from set

pieces, Argentina, and for the neutrals that is good.

pieces, Argentina, and for the Joachim Low spoke about at press

conferences, he was aware of the speed at the break. And wary of one

man in particular. We have speed at the break. And wary of one

darting run from him so far down the right-hand side, Lionel Messi.

Ezequiel Garay, a solid centre-back. Marcos Rojo was a little

off-balance. Looking down at the pitch. I don't think so, must have

been a worm! There has been a bit of rain around Rio in the last few

days. Perfect evening for the World Cup final.

Demichelis was shoulder to shoulder with Miroslav Klose. He has already

taken the throw. That was hefty from Kramer. Germany are a man lights

just now. They're not too worried, they're just keeping the ball.

Argentina's players are pointing to the touchline to tell Boateng to put

it out of play. They don't have to, it is their man. They've made the

decision on the pitch. Toni Kroos does that. They have the ball, they

can make the decision. It is the call of the referee whether he wants

to stop play or not. At sea ought to have done. Always when you are

looking the other way that you miss one. -- perhaps he ought to have

done. He took the full weight. Zabaleta took one the other night,

very similar. Clicking his jaw back into place. A

penny for the thoughts of Sami Khedira. Ruled out in the warm up.

He's a player who has had rotten luck with injury in last season.

Kramer will carry on for now. He only made his debut against Poland

it one of the warm up games in May. What a rise for the 23-year-old.

Sometimes it's just meant to be. Watching on anxiously in the town

where he's from, famous for making swords. I'm sure he's got plenty of

steel in him. He won't be coming off. Not if he

had has any say about it. He's fine, He won't be coming off. Not if he

jogging around the pitch now. Over two wards Lahm, but it won't reach

him. Rojo looked to find Higuain. A

nose of Alejandro Sabella. They nose of Alejandro Sabella. They

called him Alex when he was at Bramall Lane as a player. Standing

down, what may after this game. Kroos to Lahm. Muller this time

takes one. Get up, he's fine. Rojo went in. He was waiting for it, well

done, referee. Nothing wrong with him. There was a bit of that in

Germany's opening game, a 4-0 game against Portugal.

Germany's opening game, a 4-0 game enough to get himself off.

Germany's opening game, a 4-0 game take a lot to get Pepe sent off.

Excellent slide into win from Mascherano.

That was a risk, DME, a chance for Higuain! What a waste. He was

presented with a World Cup final gift. He obviously couldn't believe

it. He snatched at this. He waited to hit it and it almost came off the

ankle, above the boot. What an opportunity. Toni Kroos headed the

ball back without looking. A player who has hardly wasted a pass all

tournament long. For him not to make the goalkeeper made a save from that

position is criminal. What a let off for Germany. They now have a free

kick in the Argentine half. Kroos has just steadied himself. His heart

will be absolutely pumping. Just tries to hit it too hard, doesn't

he. Kramer was second to that ball,

Demichelis won it. A free kick to Argentina.

Demichelis won it. A free kick to when you look at it, looked around,

and he's just dragged it. Dear oh dear. The man wearing number nine.

Looked at Javier Mascherano's reaction. And the bench. Sergio

Aguero, number 20, he had his shirt over his head. What he would give

for a chance like that, if and when he gets on the field.

Acres of space for Philipp Lahm here. Not the best ball. It sent him

backwards rather than forwards. Past the midway point of the first

half. Cross by Philipp Lahm, Klose collapse, collected by Muller. Zappa

Letta, great on his left foot. -- Zappa Letta.

Benedikt Howedes was Germany's goal-scorer... As we look down

Benedikt Howedes was Germany's Copacabana beach. He was the

goal-scorer for Germany the last time

goal-scorer for Germany the last friendly in Frankfurt, it was a 3-1

Argentina victory, and we had something almost as breathtaking in

the Higuain mess in the first half, we had a missed penalty from Messi.

Germany getting a bit of order back about themselves.

All the way back to Neuer. He doesn't mind receiving the ball

anywhere in his doesn't mind receiving the ball

field. One of these sweeper- keepers.

A lovely take and turned by Mesut Ozil. Klose is stopped by Garay.

Just as This is good pressing from Rojo and

Perez, forcing Germany back. Germany bossing possession but not

going anywhere that quickly yet. Schweinsteiger is having too

going anywhere that quickly yet. the ball as far as Argentina are

concerned. Good closing from Lavezzi. On it again.

Didn't get that one right, not close enough to Kramer. I think he

stopped, thinking he was running offside. Thereafter some Germans

here. -- there are some Germans here. There have been plenty of

Germans wherever they have played, they have plenty of support in

Brazil. That killer Lee in the south of the country. -- particularly in

the south of the country. Even more today.

Forced out by the pressure of Kramer. Sabella's face tells a

story. A great one for reactions, Sabella will stop never left in any

doubt what he's thinking. A chip up towards Klose and Romero

had seen that developing. I think Klose realised if you went for that

he would get smashed. Just a split second, he's onside, has a look at

the goalkeeper and thanks, maybe not. The timing of the run was

exquisite. The veteran striker is looking to go out on the biggest

high of all having already broken the record for the number of goals

scored at the World Cup in this tournament. Lahm was through. Romero

gets it away but the flag is up. Would not have counted for Muller

even if he got his toe to it. The flag seemed to go up late. A clever

ball as well. Great decision. Renato Faverani wasn't just the right place

to see it all. Lavezzi is sent sprawling. A free kick. He wanted to

take it quickly but the referee was not ready because he's making a note

of the foul and we have the first yellow card of the World Cup final.

Asti and Schweinsteiger gets it. -- Bastian Schweinsteiger gets it. No

complaining. Stopped him in his tracks.

That was Daft as well because Boateng was just waiting to tackle

him. No surprise at all to see who's the

wall. Biglia with a touch to Messi to allow him to run. Can't get

through that way. to allow him to run. Can't get

keeps that in. Might have caused a problem but Romero is out to tidy

up. Rojo, that wasn't tidy from Germany. Lavezzi has Rojo and

Higuain is in there. Germany. Lavezzi has Rojo and

it won't count. He doesn't know yet. But Argentina have not taken the

lead. The flag went up very quickly. Great ball. This is a ball and a

half and an absolutely correct decision again. What a finish after

his miss as well. Curling away from Neuer. This time we give the thumbs

up to the other assistant referee, Andrea Stefani. I think Schurrle

could be coming on here. He's taken off his top. There's a subplot

within a big story. Kramer in at the last minute for Sami Khedira,

injured in the warm up. And now he's only lasted half an hour himself.

He's still very, very dazed. Yeah, he's groggy. I hope he's all right.

Christoph Kramer's dream hasn't quite gone to plan.

On will come Andre Schurrle, who when he has left the bench has made

impact after impact for Germany. You get the impression actually that he

is a real impact player. When he starts and thinks, not sure, when he

comes on, most definitely. The referee's assistant just explaining

what was wrong. Andre Schurrle, the Chelsea player, came on as a

substitute against Algeria in the last 16 to give Germany the lead, to

look really lively throughout. Then came on against Brazil, last

Tuesday. He got himself two of the seven. He's going to play on the

left. I think they'll probably just, I don't know if they're going to

drop Ozil in a little bit with Kroos and Schweinsteiger. Play a front

three. Joachim Low, even in his days as the assistant to Jurgen Klinsmann

was the tactition in the camp. He will have a plan for every

eventuality. This might improve Germany's attacking prowess. Howedes

is not particularly great about going forward. We know Schurrle is

all about attacking people in those areas.

keep rolling overment you got -- over. You got your foul, mate, get

over it. Mesut Ozil caught him. Let's see how many rolls we can

count. One, two, three... I think there were three-and-a-half.

Zabaleta has been taken out. That is a naughty one. Has Howedes. That

will be a yellow card. Maybe something brewing for

Argentina here. Maybe something brewing for

Two German names in the referee's note book. Germany having already

had to make one change in the game and one just before it. Oh, it's a

naughty foul, that. To be fair to Zabaleta, he's tough.

If he's going to catch any player in the Argentinian side that will note

it down for later, he's just caught him. Any player plus And him

Mascherano. . Just need to settle down a bit,

Germany, here. You might say

with Higuain missing that sitter. -- lightly.

Schweinsteiger is even more important to the Germany plans.

Lavezzi felt he was fouled. The Italian referee begs to differ.

Rojo almost getting in Perez' way. Both so eager to go in and make the

tackle themselves. Yeah, it's getting a little bit

spicy, which is always good. We are just over ten minutes from 45 being

played. This is good stuff. just over ten minutes from 45 being

Not edge of your Messi couldn't get it through to

there's a lot developing here. Messi couldn't get it through to

Higuain. He has won a corner. It was Schweinsteiger again, I think.

That's Lavezzi originally into Messi.

Schweinsteiger there just reads the situation.

Lavezzi has got a turn of pace from somewhere.

Starting his fourth game in a row with Sergio Aguero having been ruled

out. Oh, yeah we need one of them, mate, to carry on.

He's looking lively. It's Manuel Neuer's. The box belongs

to him. Muller gives Zabaleta the slip.

Good chance. Good save, Romero. Schurrle met it nicely. So did the

keeper. I think it's a corner. He's saying

no. a little nip at him. Ozil just got

out of the a little nip at him. Ozil just got

been given. No, offside. Yes, offside, Ozil. Romero taps it out to

Demichelis. Germany 0, Argentina 0.

Argentina have had the ball in the German net. Offside Higuain. He

should have had the ball in the German net earlier.

Messi ran straight into Schweinsteiger, who doesn't make a

meal of it just gets on with the Perfect ball to Lahm, just bounced

off his boot. He wanted to keep it a lot lower, obviously. But great ball

into him. That's gone out for an Argentina throw-in.

A rocky few minutes for Germany. They seem to have got their rhythm

back at the moment. So fantastically poised, this game.

Argentina beaten in only one of the last 25 games. Germany can do

better, one defeat in their last 27. Perez has swapped sides at the

moment. Yeah since Lavezzi took the corner before, he's not gone back to

his original position. Another one, they're creeping forward.

This time it's Germany's. Ticking around towards halftime.

Strange to think after today it's all over. Luckily you don't have to

wait too long for the football to start again. Match of the Day

returns in 34 days, Saturday August 16 for its 50th year.

Messi has managed to get through. It's turned away from goal.

It's Boateng. He got through unbelievably easily, Messi.

Hummels is feeling the pace of the races he's having to have against

the brilliant Argentina Number Ten. He has largely been kept quiet, but

you know it's there. Hummels and Howedes had big guys.

Messi is causing them problems. No free kick. Well done, ref.

Late challenge there. Germany appeal for a free kick.

Muller is down again. Referee didn't see it.

Muller back to his feet. Biglia caught on the ball and needlessly

fouled by Schurrlement A -- Schurrle. Schurrle and Rojo having a

little set-to here. Lavezzi is across to have a word and

Mascherano is here too. Thomas Muller can rub opponents up the

wrong way and he's doing just that here.

This will play into Argentina hands. I would have thought so.

That's just a Schurrle foul. We know that all day. It's amazing when they

don't see it. This is the one. What's that? It was something rather

manufactured by Thomas Muller. It was indeed, for the second time.

Rojo is lucky. He tried to be too clever. In the end, he just let

Muller have a simple cross and thanks goodness for Zabaleta, for

Argentina. Thomas Muller has to be careful. If he wants a battle, he's

playing the right team for it. Or the wrong team!

It goes Argentina's way. Contested by Schurrle. He's come on full of

fire. Yeah, he's getting a little bit rattled, the Germans, which

would suit Argentina. They don't have a problem with this.

It was the right call. straight at Romero from Kroos. Klose

did really well here, great awareness, out of his feet. That's a

back pass. Not his thing today. That's two though, isn't it? Germany

just showing signs approaching halftime of knocking it around

again. They're going over too easily as

well. Muller had to make sure he stayed in front of Lavezzi.

Could Miroslav Klose have flung himself at that? I think he thought

about it. Great ball, isn't it? No. Even though we're goalless, for a

World Cup final, it's actually been good, the first half.

Schweinsteiger has run most of the first half.

Germany corner. We move into two minutes of first-half added time.

That's such a good relationship down the right, Muller and Lahm. Perez

puffing there. It's difficult. It will be Kroos with a corner.

puffing there. It's difficult. It and Howedes have made their way into

the Argentina penalty area. - Hummels. Romero started to move

towards the ball and he retreated and he will stay

towards the ball and he retreated corner kick. Hummels is a danger.

Two goals in the World Cup at already, one against

Muller is the target of the referee's attention again, pushing

and pulling between him and Pablo Zabaleta. Expectant German fans.

Against the post! The flag has gone up. It hasn't gone in. Romero has

the ball in his grateful gloves. Such a great header as well, this

was, from Howedes. It comes off the post.

I'm saying it's a good header, he should have scored. He

I'm saying it's a good header, he run at it. Got great leveraged at

I'm saying it's a good header, he the header as well. Good officiating

once again. A stroke of luck for Argentina. Schurrle caught by

Zabaleta. Half-time at the Maracana. We haven't had a goal, but we have

seen a glaring miss from Gonzalo Higuain, who then did put the ball

in the net only for it to be ruled out for offside. Right at the end we

had that Howedes header. I think out for offside. Right at the end we

will get goals, we just don't know out for offside. Right at the end we

score them. Goalless it may be, but fascinating

it certainly is. A contrast in styles between attack and

counterattack. Classic, German pass and move and they tried to thread

their way through a resilient defence. The Germans are then

playing high up the pitch, distinct lack of pace and susceptible to the

counter attack. It's very, very open. Argentina have probably had

the better chances, apart from the one that hit the post at the end. It

was tough to call before the game, but it becomes increasingly

difficult. Still tough to call. Germany have had a lot of

possession, a lot of play down the right-hand side. Both teams have had

two great chances. Higuain should score and Howedes at the end is a

sitter from the set piece. Thoroughly enjoyable first half.

Yes. Argentina are looking very dangerous on the counterattack. I

can't believe Germany are playing with such a high line in possession,

with the lack of ability their centre halves have. Lavezzi and

Messi are having a field day. You said that throughout the tournament,

but you'd suspect with the class Argentina have got... Algeria did

the same thing, but this is against Argentina. If they continue to take

chances like that... There's no great recovery pace so when it's

played pass them, Messi gets in on the right-hand side and he's in.

Conceivably should have done better. Germany went very close to scoring

just before half-time. Before the game you said set pieces could be

crucial. They are very good at it and they know their jobs, Germany.

That is a fantastic ball in and Howedes should score, five yards

out. You've got to score. Eventually gives offside. It's a great ball in.

Argentina haven't defended brilliantly. Higuain has had an

interesting first half. He had the best chance before that. Just before

Mascherano had made a great tackle. He takes about three days to get it

under control. Then a gift of a chance. He's onto it, but he is

slow, pedestrian, laborious. Just nudging forward with your head and

make the chance easier. It sat out really well for him. He can take it

on. Because it's so nice to hit, and it's a sitter, you dream about one

of them. I don't think he needs to go so early here. He needs to check

his run to three yards. It's a very, very good ball in and a great

finish, but he doesn't need to make the wrong so early. He can see the

defenders. He should see a cross the line. Messi getting the ball between

the lines and he puts someone else in. Fantastic to see. You said

before the games that Germany are strong down the right and that is

predominantly where their threat has come from. Almost everything is

coming down the right-hand side. Lahm starts it off the vast majority

of the time. Whether it's Muller, they get in there and they have a

habit of getting in there. They find pockets of space and eventually

Argentina will get punished if they don't stop the cross coming in. They

are not prepared to rush, they wait. They get into the final third

and they are dangerous. You can tell that their favourite side because

and they are dangerous. You can tell the vast majority of it is there

whether it is Muller and Lahm or the others down there. It's a dangerous

area. You have to stop the cross. Defender lets him cross it to be

easily and at the moment Argentina are getting away with it. They are

creating half chances, Germany. The final ball hasn't been great. This

is fantastic from Ozil. Bit of a backpass, but they are working the

spaces really well. If they can find the final ball, they will punish

them. We've talked about the high line and the lack of pace of

Hummels, is it possible to exploit that? Yeah. He's been protected

really well this tournament, they haven't been left isolated man for

man. He has a lack of ability. He can't live with him. Comes inside.

The next one shows it even more. Neuer knows exactly where he is,

great goalkeeping. One on one, he identifies who he is up against, see

you later. Stop start. That's what they have to do. Great players

identify a weakness and they sit on it. The thing about a high line, and

we've seen Neuer are coming and sweeping, sometimes you can't come

and sweep. You just need one little ball in and the player to make the

right run and the goalkeeper is out of the equation. The game springs to

life when it gets to Messi. Three occasions in the first half,

including this one. Not only that, his vision and to execute the pass

also. He is top, top drawer. That is a very good tackle from

Schweinsteiger, who comes across and cuts out the danger. Him running at

you, you fear the worst. For the first time, his final ball let him

down. This is the one over the top I was talking about. A simple ball. So

dangerous. Boateng does well. So much space behind that Neuer

account, and get this one. When the ball is good enough like that, the

goalkeeper will be in no man's land if he dares to come out. If you are

giving Messi that space, he will punish you. Eventually. We shall

see. Time to pick your goal of the tournament.

Great ball, he's onside, van What a fantastic goal! What a

fantastic goal! The underdogs have made such a good

start. Is there a response? K Hill! What a strike! Tim K Hill has done

it again for Australia. - Give it to him and pray. And he's

done it! It had to be Messi. He's broken in rainy and hearts. -

Iranians. Now Jones. Jones! The equaliser!

Jermaine Jones. James Rodriguez! Moment of magic!

The outstanding James Rodriguez has once again lit up a game at these

World Cup finals. David Luiz! Brilliant! What a goal

from David Luiz! Absolute perfection. David Luiz Hammers home

a sensational free kick! A lovely reverse ball. Schurrle!

Andre Schurrle, seven! Seven to choose from and we know which one we

like. To vote, head to the BBC World Cup website and click on the goal of

your choice. Voting closes on the full-time whistle and we'll give you

the result towards the end of the programme. Plenty more sport to look

forward to this summer, starting with the live coverage of The Open

Championship from Hoylake on Thursday morning. But what about

next month? Thursday morning. But what about

next month? Life returns. I don't think I know

who the doctor is any more. I'm the doctor. I've lived

who the doctor is any more. I'm the years. I've made many mistakes. It's

about time I did something about that. Where are we going? Into

darkness. Here we go again. Am I a good man? I don't know. Dr

Who. Let's pop back, not in time, but

right now to the Maracana to hear the thoughts of Clarence Seedorf.

Just before kick-off I spoke to Lothar Matthaus. He says he's very

confident, although I'm not sure how relaxed he was when Higuain was

clean through. Is this the World Cup finals you expected?

clean through. Is this the World Cup Cup final, great quality, great

game, exactly what we expected. Argentina waiting for the Germans,

great possession from the Germans, but Argentina are knocking on the

door. Do you think Germany need to speed up their midfield? Yes, and

use the left side more. They are ignoring the left side. They have to

be more adventurous. They came out quite dangerously a couple of times.

I think Argentina have had the better chances. I know how impressed

you've been with Thomas Muller, whose movement has been fantastic.

He's fantastic, always doing the right thing. He's a bit out of the

game because they are forcing the game on the right-hand side, which

ups Argentina to defend better. - helps. The atmosphere is incredible,

what will happen helps. The atmosphere is incredible,

what will in the second-half? Is it going all the way? I expect

Argentina to sit back and Germany to push forward, with more movement up

front. They have to be aware of the speed of Argentina up front. Messi

is in the game and I'm liking what I'm seeing. Who will lift the

trophy? Very hard question. The logical thing is Germany, the best

team of the tournament. But Argentina are knocking on the door.

Thank you. Brilliant way of saying he has no

idea! More of the same in the second-half? I can't see it

changing. Germany will have the lion 's share of the play, but Argentina

have looked dangerous. If they introduce Sergio Aguero, he could

have a big say. We don't always say this but you have to say the Germans

have been a little bit unfortunate so far, losing Khedira before

kick-off and then losing his replacement, Kramer. It is one of

those were you can't see him coming. You take the full force of it. I

feel sorry for him there, You take the full force of it. I

introduced to the game and then for that to happen to him. Normally when

you can see somebody coming you can prepare yourself, you tense up, but

there is nothing there. Nasty one. How do you see it going, Alan? I

agree with Clarence. The Germans had a lot of possession in the first

half. Because Argentina can see Germany are susceptible to the

counterattack they will sit back and try to hit them on the break. They

have the pace of Messi. It just needs one ball over the top. I agree

with Rio, if Aguero comes off on, he can make the difference. Is it

fate? You just wonder. We have had a first half with no goals but it has

been end to end. We expected Argentina to get men behind the ball

but we did not expect a first half as good as that. Both managers will

be happy at half-time with all players carrying out their

instructions. Argentina will be looking for more of the same. Mats

Hummels, they have been in your team of the tournament. He has been slow.

It's still 0-0. They just look relaxed and happy in this situation.

It is a World Cup final, 24, 25 years old, but they're just chilling

before they go out. He looks pretty cool, with his family by the looks

of it. Looks like he's supporting Argentina. How can he let them wear

Argentina shirts? I don't understand it. Diego Simeone told him he had

to. One goal for Thomas Muller and he would grab the Golden Goal. James

Rodriguez has six at the moment and there will be watching closely. The

first goal will be vital. I think there should be more of the same but

with goals. The first half was absolutely excellent. Great watch.

Cancer attacking play against a classic passant move team. Cash

counter attacking play. -- passage and move team. Germany will

definitely be hoping to get that first goal. The two sides walking

back out onto the pitch at the fantastic Maracana Stadium. Back to

Mark Lawrenson and Guy Mowbray. GUY MOWBRAY: Thanks, Gary. A change

to start with. Ezequiel Lavezzi is going off to be replaced by Sergio

Aguero. A change for Argentina. Lavezzi came into the side after

Aguero was ruled out with injury. He has started the last three games.

Aguero still looking for his first World Cup goal. He has half a dozen

international appearances without a goal but is not a bad player to have

coming on at We did see him in S?o Paulo and he

looked a bit ring rusty. Growing problems? I'm not sure you could say

that. He's had a number of muscular problems since New Year with

Manchester City. His first touch in the World Cup final, sending it back

to Javier Mascherano. Messi is running already. Howedes is beaten

by Higuain. Aguero An interesting story developing in

that Argentina kept the Germany players waiting for some time in the

player's tunnel. Mascherano lists it three for

Higuain but he's offside again. -- lifts it through for Higuain.

Probably four or five different occasions down that side now.

Looking at what Argentina have done, I think Higuain will play on the

right, Messi in the middle and Aguero on the left. Aguero and

Higuain Hattie tucked in from those sides. Perez is playing as a

right-sided midfielder. Aguero will try to run onto this but Jerome

Boateng combines with Neuer. It was easy for Boateng. A positive stride.

Positive start for Argentina. Biglia has gone to the left of Mascherano.

Messi, the flag has stayed down but he has missed! Right across the face

with the crowd waiting to roar. Of all the people. He is on the side. A

massive intake of breath. You are just waiting for the net to bulge.

How close was that? Very. Neuer was beaten. He was stranded. Another

It has got those blue and white Argentina opportunity goes by.

It has got those blue and white striped shirted

It has got those blue and white feet and waving the flag

It has got those blue and white They like what they have seen since

the break but they might not like Muller the ball now.

A little bit of a waste. But a really bright start by Argentina. He

is not just feeling his left hamstring? I'm hoping it's just an

itch. So is he. He knows where the camera is, Alejandro Sabella. Still

0-0, still a lot of Argentina fans wondering how that is

Fired all the way through by Mascherano. Not quite sure

Germany players. They were waiting in the tunnel except Philipp Lahm.

He came out onto the field but was in the tunnel except Philipp Lahm.

called back in by the referee. Lahm ignored him and had the Maracana to

himself for a couple of minutes. Zabaleta was caught by Klose. The

sunset in Rio, not many finer sites in the world.

That is a picture. Staggering, isn't it. To think we have been up there

as well. Argentina free kick. Mistake by Perez.

Javier Mascherano for bailing him out there. Perhaps he was lucky that

Javier Mascherano for bailing him it was Klose who

Javier Mascherano for bailing him quickly as he used to. Don't mind

seeing the odd mistake, it usually means goals. Aguero climbed early

and five. Higuain went in with Howedes, but the defender did

enough. A swing and a miss from Higuain.

Messi, defenders doubling up on him. Messi couldn't get involved there,

he was wandering back rather lazily from being offside. At the moment

every time Argentina come forward, they are posing problems for the

Germans. Its lack of football now, isn't it. That is amazing. Almost as

though it was planned that way. It isn't it. That is amazing. Almost as

just doesn't look real. That is how amazing it is.

Ozil got it out to Howedes who showed too much of its two Pablo

Zabaleta who took a bit of everything. He looked like a

centre-back playing left-back then, Howedes. The second touch was almost

a header. There is room on the right for

Philipp Lahm should Germany choose to go that way. Lahm, threatening to

under all busily through, to go that way. Lahm, threatening to

instead he will have to get back pretty quickly. -- to bundle. Great

tackle by Boateng on Aguero. They will have a rest and set off

again. The game is quickening up, which is great. Even Mascherano

threatened to break forward then which is great. Even Mascherano

he was ignored. They will try another way round. Zabaleta sets

off. That was wasted by Mascherano. Two

in a row for him, most unusual. He goes down, tripped by Zabaleta.

The advantage is played and it's turned behind by Garay for the

corner. Schurrle asking for the free kick. But the referee gave Germany

the advantage. Foul, yeah, but look what a good position Germany are in.

They will have to settle for the corner, which they are pretty good

from. No card for Zabaleta, incidentally. Howedes is making the

run to the near post. Well over him. And there was a bit of pushing and

pulling with Muller grabbing hold of some shirt.

Well, yeah, right. After his was pulled. I think the free kick has

gone against his reputation. Mats Hummels was getting a hug from

Garay. Thomas Muller was unlucky there.

Germany. Quite clever when you are under the cosh a little bit.

Argentina quickening the tempo once more. Zabaleta looking for the run

of Higuain. Outcomes Neuer, a long, long way. Big collision. He's given

a free kick the other way, the referee. Was Neuer inside the box

when he made the connection with his fist? That's exactly what Sergio

Aguero is arguing about. Higuain has a look, he knows he's coming, he can

hear him. That doesn't tell us, does it? I think he's just all right,

just. Higuain might not be. It's his knee coming up into the side of the

face. Is that dangerous play from the goalkeeper? He does get to the

ball first. What's he going to do with his knees when he's that high

up in the air? You make contact with the ball and then worry about

everything else later. German goalkeeper Polak Singer boy in blue,

we are back to Schumacher! Not quite in that category, thank goodness.

we are back to Schumacher! Not quite Higuain is half accepting the

apology. Hard to know how it can be a free kick to Germany. Very harsh.

He got his head in the way of a six German. - six German. You can

understand his anger and his business. Quite a few breaks for

blows to the head throughout this World Cup. He's having a go at the

fourth official as well, Higuain, on the touchline. Sub ballot is joining

in. Not getting a lot of movement from

Klose, are they? Finding it really difficult to get into the game at

the moment. A cross towards Klose. He's got one

on target, there's always once a match. That's what he's good at,

within the confines of the 18-yard box. A good league, but not a great

connection. It seemed to slide down his face rather than

connection. It seemed to slide down temple. Echoes the way he got off in

2002 when Schurrle runs into Pablo Zabaleta.

five goals Just kept in. It will be an

Argentina throw in. They claim it should be a goal kick, but not the

case. Joachim should be a goal kick, but not the

with a few words to say, it Lahm couldn't quite slide it

the feet of Muller. No. Did Muller stop thinking he was offside, maybe?

the feet of Muller. No. Did Muller Clever play by Lahm. No,

the feet of Muller. No. Did Muller moment it looked like Bayern

He is forced a slice from the keeper. What a touch!

Demichelis was caught by Klose. Muller wants it in the middle.

Mascherano didn't really get it away and then it was behind from Ozil. It

shot up at him, a bit unlucky. Klose was also behind Ozil. Looks like a

deflection off Mascherano. A little bit unfortunate, not a lot Ozil

could do. Running at full pelt. The World Cup final remains

intriguing. Still don't think you would want to

firmly put yourself in one camp, saying one team will win it over the

other. Hummels against Aguero and that's getting tetchy. Well done,

Aguero. He fought three different people to win that corner. He is

strong. Looks far more ready for this than he was the other day. He

was undercooked the other day, no doubt about it. Clever too. Didn't

let Hummels anywhere near that. Demichelis and Geraint Hughes and

row Joe up from the back. - garra right.

My first thought was it was another corner for Argentina. I think I was

right, it came off Klose. Schweinsteiger is

want it. Doesn't want it there. I don't think he wants it anywhere.

Really messy between Neuer and Howedes. Neuer are saying to

Howedes, you have to accept the ball. Zabaleta will take the

Argentina throw in. Threatening to have a good spell with Aguero

instrumental. Mascherano has made another mistake. And then plunging

into a tone for the error and he will get a yellow card. He knew

straightaway as well. Doesn't complain. OK, I'll take that, my

mistake. Argentina in the final, you might say, largely down to his lots

this chick tackle to deny Arjen Robben. - last-ditch tackle. Most

definitely. Stretched so much he almost did himself a mischief in

that game, but fit today. Aguero was in late and he will be

yellow carded. He has ended Schweinsteiger and there is a lot of

feeling creeping into this now. Echoes of when they meant in the

World Cup in Germany in 2006, when it went all the way to penalties. At

the end, Schweinsteiger was punched in the back by Maxi Rodr?guez after

the penalty shoot out. It all went off, as they say. I think it's

because you've got that undercurrent in this game as well, which is why

it's so intriguing. Lots and lots of Argentinian noise again. I thought

they had been quiet for a while. Overruled. Ozil took it. Not to any

great benefit for Germany. Biglia was caught waiting for it. Free kick

for Argentina. Klose as well, back a long way. He

couldn't stop himself. Germany have six or seven players warming up

behind the goal. Can't bring them all on! Played in. Neuer was the

only player ready for that. Very coolly done by Demichelis. He

had to get that absolutely right. Schurrle and Romero have words. We

had a player sent off in both of the last two World Cup finals, why

shouldn't this one be any different? I think Romero is the biggest player

Argentina have in terms of height. Not a tall team at all. Free kick

for Germany and Biglia is contesting that. Many duels developing all over

the field. Returned to Ozil by Muller. Zabaleta doesn't take any

chances. Kept by Higuain. Perez claims handball and gets it against

Toni Kroos. Not sure what Kroos can do in that circumstance. Is he

supposed to chop it off at the shoulder?

Great run from row Joe down the left-hand side. Higuain is in the

box. left-hand side. Higuain is in the

Schweinsteiger. Who else? Three separate

Schweinsteiger. Who else? Three he's come in and saved Germany. Nice

turn by Enzo Perez and then he drove straight at Hummels. Demichelis out

to Zabaleta, who can put in a cross, but it was too close to Neuer R.

The game is opening up. Here we go. Lahm breezes past Biglia. And then

he is unceremoniously taken down. He bought it, didn't he? He wasn't

turning round and running back to his own goal.

Lovely passing Germany players. Howedes with a

cross that is anything but lovely. It goes for a throw in. That's why

he's a centre-back. It's also why we've seen no goals to determine who

will be closer to lifting that trophy at the end of the day. You

can still focus your goal of the trophy at the end of the day. You

Cup website. The vote Clark says - closes at full-time. It has run

away, Rome are row has it. Poor touch. Lovely play.

much longer there, he ran straight into Kroos. He had a couple of

moments in the first half, most definitely. But you could have said

that about ten in some of the other games until the last couple of

minutes. And then we saw games until the last couple of

Particularly in the last 16 game against Switzerland when he made the

winner for Di Mar?a in the nick of time. Perez and Schweinsteiger

having a falling out. To be considered with Maradona and Pele,

does Messi have to start performing before this game is done? Yes.

does Messi have to start performing answered that! Did you want the

longer version? Yes will do. A little bit of anxiety at

German end but they seem relaxed by and large. Argentina supporters have

been anything but relaxed. I'm amazed they all made it four

kick-off because of the noise made in Rio last night, until 6am,

fantastic stuff. Aguero towards fantastic stuff. Aguero towards

Higuain. Away by Howedes. Mascherano went in bravely, some might say

foolhardy. I'm not sure it was a free kick. He goes download to head

it. You are allowed to challenge him.

Higuain can't get past Mats Hummels, one of the defenders of the

tournament. Howedes asked a lot of Andre Schurrle there. Schurrle went

stride for stride with Zabaleta. Looked like the assistant was about

to give a free kick to Germany. He undoubtedly was. It is a throw for

Perez to take. Now it is Zabaleta to take.

Messi can't take it. Looked as though he was about to burn away

from Howedes. I think he had a little luck before the ball was due

to arrive at his feet. Must have just taken his eye off it. They all

look old enough to have enjoyed Maradona at his best. This is not

Messi at his best on night. The touch from Perez somehow bounces

through to Messi. Messi bounces past a couple of tackles to shoot but he

couldn't quite wrap his left foot around. But here he comes. Amazing,

isn't it, defenders seemed mesmerised when he's up against

them. His movement is so quick, short steps, fantastic control. He

was thinking of Iran all over again. That goal in injury time moments

after Iran had had their own chances to win it. Argentina are yet to be

behind in any game in this World Cup.

Klose did well to keep his balance but couldn't quite keep the ball in

the end. Neither could Lahm. Joachim Low is contemplating what

move to make next but I think Sabella will make the next move. It

will probably be Palacio. He seems to come on quite regularly. Has come

on in four of the games. He could have won it against the Dutch.

We don't know if Di Maria is fit to play any part at all. You would

think if he was he would be involved. Howedes beat Perez to

that. Schurrle loses out to Mascherano and in fact was impeding,

stopping Mascherano getting away. The referee in the right place. The

question is, who does he come on for? This will be a statement. If

it's not the like of Higuain, you're not taking Messi Ofcom is on. He's

either taking off Higuain or he's going for it with everything,

Sabella. The board says nine, Higuain will be coming off.

Throw for Argentina. They will make the change before play is reserved.

-- resumed. Higuain was put through by, of all people, Toni Kroos with a

backward header. He won't be getting a goal in this World Cup final.

Rodrigo Palacio takes over. Aguero had to be strong. Messi

trying to hold off Schweinsteiger. It won't quite run for Palacio and

Neuer is there to pounce. A good bit of distribution as well, Muller was

screaming for the ball. Looked for a split-2nd like Messi would burst

through everybody. Muller got himself in a mix up. They

have managed to get a corner from it. I think what Argentina have

done... Look at that, fantastic. Just stumbles and then

off-camera... He turns to the rest and thought he had been caught. He's

now playing through the, Messi. Argentina looking all the more

dangerous for it. It will be Germany who could threaten from this,

though. Garay is trying to go where ever Mats Hummels wants to go. It is

towards Muller. He could not get off the floor to challenge for it.

Argentina in no hurry to get out here.

A lovely ball from Muller. Had defenders swarming around Howedes,

the chance was gone. Again, it went to the wrong man. But he was the

the chance was gone. Again, it went only man in there for Germany. Won

back by Mats Hummels. Lahm lists it towards Muller but it looks like a

push. Everybody's down. It was like Beaches Brooke. -- beach

I think they just clattered into each other. Howedes could not get it

out of his feet and under control. It has been the story of his game.

He broke free from Demichelis... No, he didn't, he just fell over. The

referee said that all of the German players lining up behind the goal,

it's a distraction. For whom? I think for him.

Less than ten minutes of the 90 to go. We are yet to see a goal in the

first World Cup final played Palacio never really had a handle on

where that was going over his head. The game continues to be reasonably

open and The game continues to be reasonably

both teams. Can Ozil create something? Behind Schurrle. Kroos!

He passed it wide of the post. Well wide. Never felt like he would make

the net bulge. Ozil cuts inside, head up and a great ball. No. Didn't

even bobble or anything. No excuse. There was no conviction in me shot

from a player who scored twice as Brazil were bulldozed in Belo

Horizonte Leeds on Wednesday. I wonder if were getting to the

stage I wonder if were getting to the

pressing and Argentina forced to sit back, where the toil of Argentina's

semifinal against the Dutch takes control. Goalkick. Ozil thinks it's

a corner. So did I at first. Good decision. Ozil was in front of

Mascherano. Ozil Ben claims he should have had a free kick. But it

will be a goalkick. -- Ozil Ben Joachim Low is unruffled. There is a

delay for an intruder. That is a far better site. Absolutely. Some

village has just lost its idiot. It looks so close, doesn't it. We can

see it with the naked eye from where we are sitting, just on top of the

hill. Germany 0-0 Argentina. Nodded on towards Klose. A combination of

Demichelis and Garay can bind to keep him away. Romero was very cool.

And a lack of pace Palacio is on the move down the