Six minutes later, German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger shook off three opponents and cut the ball back to Arne Friedrich, who tapped in while falling down.

Klose, playing his 100th international game, scored his second goal - his fourth in South Africa and 14th in his three World Cups - as he volleyed Mesut Ozil's cross into the net in the 89th minute.

Germany coach Joachim Loew said the youth and speed was the key to their lopsided victory.

"Argentina are an experienced and aggressive side but they are inconsistent in defence," said Loew. "The German team are young and speedy enough to take advantage of their defensive loopholes."

Loew's more famed counterpart lamented the dashed dream but said he was proud of leading the Argentine team.

"We gave the Germans too many ideas," said Maradona, who also praised Messi as "a great player", disclosing that his heir apparent cried at the locker room.

Messi, the most shinning star in world arena, had to go home empty-handedly. He did not score a single goal in the World Cup.

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