The 2014 World Cup comes down to the meeting that many of the purists might have wanted prior to the tournament as Germany take on Argentina.

While the Germans served up a historic thrashing for Brazil, the Argentines slogged their way through a tight semi-final against the Dutch and had to endure extra time before prevailing on penalties.

Germany have form, fresher legs and an extra day's rest in their favour and will be the favourites. In that context, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi on his date with destiny to see if he can help his country overcome the odds and repeat the outcome of the 1986 Final.