Higuain starts for Argentina with Aguero on bench

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero was left on the bench by Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella for the FIFA World Cup final against Germany at the Maracana Stadium here Sunday.

Gonzalo Higuain started as striker for Germany.

Aguero started Argentina's first game of the tournament but has been injured after that, playing a bit-part role in the South American team's route to the final.

The striker came on as late substitute in Argentina's semifinal win over the Netherlands.

Real Madrid winger Angel di Maria, who missed the semis due to an injury, is also on the bench.