Germany won their fourth Football World Cup (1-0) beating Argentina in the finals of FIFA 2014, as mentioned in ‘Stop Press’ of our report in our July 15, 2014 issue.
It was Germany’s first win since 1990, making it the second-most successful team overall at the premier Football event with Italy behind five-time champions Brazil.
In a closely contested final at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on July 14 (New Zealand time), where fortunes ebbed and flowed, it was Germany that held their nerves better and played solid Football. It was their determination and relentlessness that earned them the coveted World Cup at extra time.
Strong defence
Defence was the forte for the Germans with Kevin Prince Boateng as the most formidable player. Mario Gotze struck the title-clinching goal for the Germans in the 113th minute of the game, after both teams were goalless at the end of regular time.
Gotze only came on the field at the 88th minute of the match after a now famous pep talk by Coach Joachim Low, who encouraged the youngster to eclipse Argentinian star Lionel Messi on the field.
No player epitomised Germany’s fighting qualities better than midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger. He was twice led off the field for injuries occurred during the match but soon returned to guide his team to football’s ultimate glory.
Judicious mix
Germany had an excellent squad at the event, with a good mix of experience and youth. Nearly half of Coach Loew’s squad are less than 25 years old. When players of the calibre of forward Lukas Podolski get limited game time, it speaks volumes about the team’s depth.
Players of the Argentinian team were left to rue their over-dependence on their Captain, and Player of the Tournament Messi, who failed to score and missed two close chances in the 46th minute and a free kick in the dying stages of the match.
Poor Argentinians
Forward Gonzalo Higuain also missed an easy chance in the 21st minute. Though their defence was good, it was the attacking third (the third of the field that is closest to the opponent’s goal) where Argentina played poorly. It was the first time that Argentina trailed in this event –sadly for their fans in the game that meant the most.
Good Tournament
FIFA 2014 was a spectacular tournament watched by millions across the globe. It was a high scoring affair which saw a record of 171 goals, equalling the 1998 World Cup.
Brazil proved to be excellent hosts of the event, which saw a European team win the World Cup for the first time in a South American country.
FIFA 2014 ran smoothly, with the infrastructure and security arrangements up to the mark.
Brazil showed the World that it is ready to host major sporting events.
Russia with love
The 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil will be a worthy follow up to this Football carnival.
As for soccer fans, all eyes now turn to Russia which will host the next edition of the FIFA World Cup.
