Joachim Low told Mario Gotze to outshine Lionel Messi

Germany coach Joachim Low has revealed that he told Mario Gotze to show the world that he was a better player than Argentina's Lionel Messi, minutes before he scored the winning goal in the World Cup final.

The substitute netted in the 113th minute to give Die Mannschaft a 1-0 victory over Messi's side in the Maracana.

Low has revealed that he gave Gotze a pep-talk during half time in extra time.

"I said to him, show to the world you are better than Messi," The Telegraph quotes the Germany boss as saying.

"Gotze is the miracle boy. He is the wonder who can play in numerous positions, he is the decider who can come on and make a difference and that is what he did."

Germany's success in Brazil was their fourth World Cup victory.