Loew and Tabarez both happy with teams' World Cup efforts.

Germany coach Joachim Loew hailed his battling side as they came from behind to finish third in the World Cup.

Germany were 2-1 down against Uruguay but Sami Khedira's goal capped off the comeback as Loew's men won 3-2 to finish third.

"In the second half, when we were forced to dig deep, we saw the mental strength the team had to resist and then snatch victory," said Loew.

"I'm pleased with that, the team deserves it. Altogether, what we've achieved, we never would have expected it eight or nine months ago.

"We knew it was important to finish off with a win, but champions rise again, we rose to the occasion again and my players are satisfied. Our objective was to travel to Soccer City (for the Final), but tonight we saw so much joy."

Oscar Tabarez, the Uruguay coach, was proud of his side despite the disappointing end to what has been an impressive tournament from the two time winners.

"We showed our purpose and intentions, on a level playing field against a great opponent," said Tabarez.

"The match was contested by two teams who really wanted to finish in third place, by two teams who gave everything.

"We showed we can play any team in the world, there's nothing above this. We lost, but we could have won."

Ahead of the World Cup Final, Holland coach Bert Van Marwijk has urged his side to show courage in their clash with Spain.

Holland are currently on a 25 match unbeaten run ahead of Sunday's showdown in Soccer City.

"They have to be themselves and have to have the courage to play football against Spain," said Van Marwijk.

"They are two of the best teams and I emphasise the word 'team'.

"We beat Brazil and Spain beat Germany. Spain have played more attractive football than we have but the teams have the intention to play in the same way. Both teams have their own style but they resemble each other.

"I'm not going to tell you how I'm going to play. We just have to be ourselves."

Spain manager Vincente Del Bosque said:

"Holland are a very strong side but we won't be changing our style to play them. Whatever team I choose, we will have a group of excellent players on the pitch."