Germany vs Argentina: Preview and predictions for World Cup final

After a long, grueling tournament, the 2014 FIFA World Cup is set to come to an end.

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On Sunday afternoon, all eyes in the sport’s world will be on the iconic Estádio Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the 2014 FIFA World Cup final as Argentina looks to become the first team to stop the powerhouse Germany squad in this year’s tournament.

While playing against a player of Messi’s caliber could force Germany to keep an extra eye on him, they have no plans to do so.

Germany has said there will be no man marking for Messi and they do not appear too considered about what little Leo will be able to on the pitch Sunday.

For today’s game, Germany is the designated home team which means we should see the European giants suited up in their white kits and Argentina in the navy blue.

June 16, 2014; Salvador, BRAZIL; Germany player Thomas Mueller (13) and Sami Khedira (6) celebrate a goal against Portugal during Group G play during the 2014 World Cup at Arena Fonte Nova. Mandatory Credit: Tim Groothuis/Witters Sport via USA TODAY Sports

Today’s final features two of the most creative attacking teams, so we should expect plenty of chances and a thrilling 90+ minutes of action to determine the champ.

Of course, this match also features two of the three finalists for the World Cup’s Golden Glove award that goes to the best goalkeeper in Germany’s Manuel Neuer and Argentina’s Sergio Romero, so we will have to see which attack is able to break down the wall first.

For the winner, it will be pure ecstasy as their ultimate goal over the past few years has finally become a reality, while the losers must go back to the drawing board and wait nearly another half of a decade before seeking redemption.

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It may be hard to picture Germany losing at this stage in the tournament and after a dominating 7-1 performance over Brazil, but Argentina may have that extra magic thanks to the foot of Messi.

With the added motivation of claiming a World Cup title on the soil of rival Brazil and the opportunity to be immortalized in Argentina’s rich soccer history alongside the likes of Diego Maradona, Messi will prove to be the difference maker and put the team on his shoulders to complete a wild and entertaining World Cup with an upset win.

Prediction: 2-1, Argentina

Who do you think will come away with the win on Sunday afternoon? Sound off in the comments section below with your thoughts and predictions.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the next few weeks for the latest news and results from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.