Centre-back Carlos Puyol’s bullet header from a Xavi corner sent Spain to their first-ever World Cup final at the expense of the ultimately outplayed Germany.

Chances were at a premium in the first half, despite Spain dominating early possession. Significantly, in view of later events, their best chance fell to Puyol who headed over Andres Iniesta’s cross from close range.

Piotr Trochowski’s low drive was saved by Spanish keeper Iker Casillas before Mesut Ozil crumpled under a Sergio Ramos challenge in the penalty area, the referee ignoring Germany’s penalty appeals.

Spain upped the tempo after half-time, with Pedro and David Villa going close. While German substitute Toni Kroos shot straight at Casillas with his first touch.

But moments later, an unmarked Puyol broke the deadlock, and Pedro spurned a golden opportunity on the break to make the game safe as Germany poured forward in a futile search for an equaliser.