FIFA World Cup

United Germany claim their first ever World Cup with a 1-0 win against Argentina in the final.

The biggest sporting event in the world, the 20th World Cup hosted in Brazil, witnessed countless breathtaking moments. Germany lifted the title after a hiatus of 24 years, having finished as runners-up in the 2002 World Cup and third in the 2006 and 2010 editions.

The Germans enjoyed an undefeated run in the mega event, finishing on top in their group and romping on in the knock-out stages to lift the trophy at the Estadio do Maracana in Rio de Janerio. The run also included a 7-1 thrashing of hosts and five-time world champions Brazil, a memory which is likely to last for a long while.

For the fans, the World Cup kick started with Robin van Persie’s spectacular headed equaliser for the Netherlands as they beat defending champions Spain 5-1.

But even before the 7-1 disaster, Brazil fans had to endure heartache as star striker Neymar fractured his vertebra in a match against Columbia, which meant he was unable to be a part of the Brazil side in the fateful semi-final.

Another star that forged his name in the history of the cup was Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who netted twice in the competition to break Ronaldo’s record of 15 goals and become the all-time leading goalscorer in the World Cup.

Columbia’s James Rodriguez, meanwhile, was the breakthrough superstar, winning the Golden Boot for his six goals, including a spectacular turn and volley against Uruguay in the round of 16.



Argentina skipper Lionel Messi won the player of the tournament award but was left heartbroken as Mario Gotze’s winner confined his side to a loss in the final.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 31^st,  2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.