Germany held onto their European crown in a thrilling final against Sweden that was decided by Claudia Mueller's golden-goal winner.

The hosts and tournament favourites were made to work hard by the Swedes who can be proud that they took Germany to extra-time.

Sweden had chances to steal a win in normal time, but Germany were always a threat in attack.

And their fine form throughout the tournament ultimately held them in good stead as they clinched their third successive European title in front of an 18,000-strong crowd.

The game got off to a slippery start with heavy rain making conditions difficult for the players.

Sweden's Hanna Ljungberg threatened the German defence early on but Stefanie Jones tidied up at the back.

At the other end, Sandra Smisek saw her toe-poke slip just wide.

Sweden were keen to improve on their 3-1 defeat at the hands of the hosts in the group stages.

They hustled Germany and were certainly not overawed by the occasion.

And as the game wore on, the Swedes grew in confidence.

Victoria Svensson clipped the top of the bar on 52 minutes but only after she had strayed offside.

Germany's Pia Wunderlich wasted her side's best opportunity in the 54th minute when she miscued a shot with the goal at her mercy.

Germany, sensing they were on the back foot, brought on Mueller and the substitution proved an inspired one.

She was soon denied by keeper Caroline Jonsson from close range.

But Jonsson was unable to stop Mueller from slipping the ball under her in extra time to grab the all important winner for Germany.