Who Won the 2014 FIFA World Cup? Full Breakdown

By Sarah Miller · September 26, 2048

Germany won the 2014 FIFA World Cup in football, defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final held at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on July 13, 2014. The decisive goal was scored by Mario Götze in the 113th minute, securing Germany's fourth World Cup title and making them the first European team to win the tournament in South America.

Overview of the 2014 FIFA World Cup

The 2014 FIFA World Cup was the 20th edition of the international men's football championship, hosted by Brazil from June 12 to July 13, 2014. A total of 32 national teams competed across 12 host cities, playing 64 matches that featured dramatic upsets, record-breaking performances, and one of the most memorable finals in history.

Key Tournament Highlights

Host country: Brazil
Dates: June 12 – July 13, 2014
Champion: Germany (4th title)
Runner-up: Argentina
Number of teams: 32
Total matches: 64
Total goals scored: 171
Top scorer: James Rodríguez (Colombia) with 6 goals
Golden Ball winner: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Germany's Path to Victory

Under the leadership of head coach Joachim Löw, Germany delivered a balanced and disciplined performance throughout the tournament. Their journey included a historic 7-1 semifinal victory over host nation Brazil, one of the most shocking results in World Cup history.

Germany's Match Results in 2014 World Cup

Group Stage: Germany 4–0 Portugal, Germany 2–2 Ghana, USA 0–1 Germany
Round of 16: Germany 2–1 Algeria (after extra time)
Quarterfinal: France 0–1 Germany
Semifinal: Brazil 1–7 Germany
Final: Germany 1–0 Argentina (a.e.t.)

The Final Match: Germany vs Argentina

The final match took place on July 13, 2014, at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. With both teams displaying strong defensive discipline, the game remained goalless through regular time. The breakthrough came in the 113th minute when substitute Mario Götze scored with a stunning left-footed volley from a cross by André Schürrle.

Key Moments in the Final

90 minutes ended 0-0; no goals during regular play
Mario Götze scored winning goal in 113' (left-footed volley)
Lionel Messi had limited impact despite being named Golden Ball winner
Manuel Neuer made crucial saves and was pivotal in buildup play
Neuer received the Golden Glove award for best goalkeeper

Team	Matches Played	Wins	Goals For	Goals Against	Goal Difference	Points
Germany	7	6	18	4	+14	18
Argentina	7	5	8	2	+6	15
Netherlands	7	5	15	4	+11	15
Brazil	7	5	11	14	-3	12
France	5	4	10	3	+7	12

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows Germany's dominance in the 2014 World Cup, particularly in goal difference (+14) and total goals scored (18). Despite Argentina reaching the final with a strong defensive record, they scored only 8 goals throughout the tournament. Germany's ability to score in critical moments, especially in knockout stages, set them apart from other top teams.

Legacy and Impact of Germany's Win

Germany's 2014 World Cup victory marked their fourth title, placing them among the most successful nations in football history. It was also significant as it unified a new generation of German players, including Manuel Neuer, Thomas Müller, Toni Kroos, and Philipp Lahm, who were already established stars but now cemented their legacy on the world stage.

This win also highlighted tactical evolution under Joachim Löw, blending youth with experience and emphasizing positional play and high pressing. The 7-1 win over Brazil remains one of the most discussed results in sports history, symbolizing both Germany's efficiency and Brazil's collapse under pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2014 FIFA World Cup

Who won the 2014 FIFA World Cup?

Germany won the 2014 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final after extra time. Mario Götze scored the winning goal in the 113th minute.

Where was the 2014 World Cup held?

The 2014 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Brazil, marking the second time Brazil hosted the tournament, the first being in 1950.

Who scored the winning goal in the 2014 World Cup final?

Mario Götze scored the winning goal in the 113th minute of the final match. He controlled a cross from André Schürrle with his chest and volleyed it into the net with his left foot.

What was the score in the Brazil vs Germany match in 2014?

Germany defeated Brazil 7-1 in the semifinals of the 2014 World Cup. This match is famously known as the "Mineiraço," referencing Brazil's traumatic loss at Estádio Mineirão in Belo Horizonte.

Who was the top scorer in the 2014 World Cup?

James Rodríguez of Colombia was the top scorer with 6 goals, earning him the Golden Boot award. His performances, especially a stunning volley against Uruguay, earned global acclaim.

Which player won the Golden Ball in 2014?

Lionel Messi of Argentina won the Golden Ball award as the best player of the tournament, despite Argentina losing in the final.

Did any European team win the World Cup in South America before 2014?

No European team had won the FIFA World Cup in South America before Germany's 2014 victory. Germany became the first European nation to win the tournament on South American soil.