Which side will the history books favour when Germany face Argentina in the final of the World Cup in Brazil on Sunday? The Local looks at past clashes between the two great footballing nations to find out.

A global fever built up Sunday ahead of the World Cup final between Lionel Messi's Argentina and a formidable German team seeking a fourth title.

The Argentina great insists he would be glad to see the Barcelona forward take up his mantle if he emulates his 1986 World Cup win, urging him to put his tiredness to one side.

Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger said on Saturday that his side will be under "no pressure" when they tackle Argentina in Sunday's World Cup final at the Maracana.

The two goalkeepers set to face off in the World Cup final have joined the Costa Rica hero on the shortlist, with Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa and USA's Tim Howard missing out

The Italian, who was criticised by Belgium coach Marc Wilmots for favouring Argentina earlier in the competition, will take charge of the Albiceleste's clash with Germany.

The Barcelona stars have been named among a shortlist dominated by Argentina and Germany, who will contest Sunday's World Cup final at the Maracana.

Tearful Brazil star Neymar says he is prepared to set aside the historical rivalry between South America's two footballing heavyweights as he wants four-time world footballer of the year Lionel Messi to win the World Cup when Argentina meets Germany in Sunday's final.

Brazil star Neymar broke down in tears as he claimed the challenge that ended his World Cup could have left him paralysed.

Lionel Messi can secure his place among the game’s greats with a World Cup triumph after Argentina defeated the Netherlands on penalties on Wednesday to reach the final.

Fifa has rejected Uruguay and Liverpool striker Luis Suarez's appeal against a four-month ban from all football-related activities for biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini.

Brazil's injured striker Neymar will attend Saturday's third place play-off when the battered World Cup hosts take on the Netherlands.