20m UK viewers watched Germany win the World Cup for the fourth time

Germany was crowned world champions after they defeated Argentina in the 2014 World Cup final.

15:55 14 July 2014

Germany has once again defeated Argentina, whom they beat in Rome 24 years ago, to be hailed as World Cup champions.

The win was hugely attributed to Gotze who demonstrated flawless technique and commendable calm to chest down Andre Schurrle’s pass and sweep in a left-foot finish with the prospect of a penalty shootout only seven minutes away.

The win made Germany the first European team to win the trophy in South America.

After destroying hosts Brazil 7-1 in Tuesday semi-final, Germany proved that they were unstoppable. In the end their ecstatic celebrations were in contrast to the tears of the Argentines.

Argentina did not succeed in getting a shot on target in the entire game due to Germany’s strong defence and the four-time world player of the year Messi looked on increasingly jaded as the game went on.

Messi had been threatening to score and he almost put Argentina ahead seconds after the break, only to pull a poor finish wide of the goal with his normally lethal left foot.

As the final entered the closing 10 minutes, Kroos had Germany's clearest opening for some time but he sent a sidefoot off target after Ozil had laid the ball invitingly into his path.

For the game’s extra time, Gotze concluded the game by showing his class and composure.

It has now been confirmed that over 20 million UK viewers tuned in to watch the final.