Germany counting on 'secret plan' to defend Messi's attack in WC final

Germany has reportedly revealed that they have a secret plan to defend Argentine ace Lionel Messi's attack on Sunday's World Cup final at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

Germany's assistant coach Hansi Flick said that there is a special plan to cope with Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or award four times, but refused to give details on the same.

According to Sport24, Flick said that the Germans saw how Netherlands managed to keep Messi out during their semifinal clash, but he added that they too have a special plan for the striker, although he said that he would not give that away.

Messi reportedly had a relatively quiet match against the Netherlands as Wednesday's semifinal was settled by penalties that saw Argentina advance to the World Cup final.

Flick also said that the German squad is looking forward to meeting a compact, organised team and in Messi, Argentina has got one of the outstanding players of the tournament.

He further stated that they know plenty about Argentina, adding that Germany has to accept the role of favourites, but the final would write it's own script.

German defender Benedikt Hoewedes said that his side's defence would pay Messi the same close attention Cristiano Ronaldo received in the 4-0 victory against Portugal in the group stages.

Hoewedes added that Messi is one of the best players in the world, but they have to defend as a team.