Miroslav Klose has admitted that winning the World Cup after coming close in previous years has made the achievement even sweeter.

The striker was involved when Germany were beaten in the 2002 final by Brazil, before being a member of the squads which finished third at the next two tournaments, and he admits that it is difficult to believe they were able to lift the trophy with a 1-0 win over Argentina on Sunday night.

"It's outstanding, this crowns everything," the 36-year-old told FIFA.com. "We finished second once, were third twice, but this is world-class. I can hardly comprehend it.

"It was always a dream to once be up there and not just having to stand around and have to applaud others. The team's performances were important, we wanted to keep our calm because we knew we had the better quality to win it."

Klose is the only player remaining in the German squad who played in the 2002 final.