Bender ready for Messi challenge

Germany midfielder Lars Bender is eagerly anticipating Wednesday’s international friendly against Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder previously took on the Barcelona star in last year’s Champions League, when the Argentine netted a stunning five goals in one game.

Nevertheless, despite the memory of Messi’s impressive performance last term, the gifted forward will not be the only player Bender will be keeping a close eye on.

“Of course, I am really looking forward to this game,” Bender told the DFB website.

“But not just because we will be facing Messi. He has the ability to single-handedly decide games and has extraordinary qualities.

“However, he is only one component of a very strong team. A match against Argentina is something very special. They have a big reputation and a lot of quality in their squad.

“They have some outstanding individuals such as Messi, (Gonzalo) Higuain and (Angel) Di Maria. They struggled a bit at the 2010 World Cup, but they are back now.”