World hails Germany as World Cup winner - PHOTOS

Supersub Mario Gotze scored a dramatic extra time winner as Germany won the World Cup for a fourth time.

Germany hero Gotze struck in the 123rd minute with a wonderful finish as Joachim Low's men also wrote their names into the history books.

They became the first European team to win the trophy in South America as they won a thrilling final in the Maracana last night.

It shattered Argentina's hopes of winning the World Cup in the home of their greatest rivals as Lionel Messi was left heartbroken.

The final appeared to be heading towards penalties when the Germans struck as Andre Schurrle broke down the left and put over a cross for Gotze.

Gotze controlled the ball on his chest and then lashed home a wonderful left foot shot into the far corner to bring the Maracana to life.

Germany boss Low and his players celebrated wildly at the end as they toasted another success on the back of one of the greatest World Cups football has ever seen.

Germany defender Benedikt Hoewedes headed against the post just before the break.

But Argentina had more openings as Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain both squandered good opportunities.

It was a nervous finish but the game dragged into extra time when tiredness and fatigue took over to present both teams with good chances to win the game.

Germany substitute Andre Schurrle should have scored but his shot was well saved by Argentina keeper Sergio Romero.

Argentina substitute Rodrigo Palacio also went clean through only to chip Germany keeper Manuel Neuer but he saw his effort drag wide of the post.

But finally, Gotze decided matters with his wonderful finish to leave

Argentina shattered and Germany's fans celebrating wildly in the Maracana.


/DailyMirror/