Rio De Janeiro: Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano said his side had "the best chances" of the World Cup final despite his side failing to hit the target in 120 minutes.
Argentina were beaten by an extra-time goal from Germany substitute Mario Goetzein the 113rd minute - after the South Americans failed to register a single shot on target in the game.
Tough-tackling Barcelona man Mascherano said: "It is difficult to explain. We did everything to win and we had the best chances of the match, for as long as we could last physically."
Argentina won the title in 1978 and 1986, the latter coming at the expence of West Germany
The tournament in Brazil is the third time they have had to settle for second after runner-up spots in 1930 and 1990.
Coach Alejandro Sabella expressed his pride in defeat for his Argentina players.
The 59-year-old said: “I feel sadness not to have been able to win the tournament but pride in the team that played a great game.
“I congratulate the players. They are a pride to the nation for the efforts they made and the tournament they played.”
