Maxi Rodriguez: 'Argentina must take World Cup chance'

Maxi Rodriguez is hopeful that Argentina can complete their dream of winning the World Cup on Brazilian soil.

The 33-year-old midfielder scored the winning penalty against the Netherlands following a goalless 120 minutes in Sao Paulo, sending La Celeste through to their first final in the showpiece event since 1990.

"We know the pain we have been through, and we deserved some kind of happiness," Rodriguez is quoted as saying by FourFourTwo.

"Now we have to play the final but that is what we have dreamed of ever since we left Buenos Aires. We must make the most of it and let's hope that the last 90 minutes are on our side.

"I dedicate this to my family and all of Argentina, to everyone who is crying like us, who have had a dream since they were little and now might be able to see it fulfilled."

Argentina will face Germany in Sunday's final at the Maracana.