PORTO SEGURO, Brazil – For a man about to face one of the game's most prolific scorers, Benedikt Hoewedes is remarkably calm and composed ahead of the World Cup final.
Even more so considering he'll be playing out of his usual position.
Hoewedes has been used as left back by Germany coach Joachim Loew during the tournament and the Schalke defender is likely to be the one trying to stop Lionel Messi's runs on the right wing.
Stopping Argentina's top star will have to be a collective effort, though, according to Hoewedes.
Hoewedes already has had to deal with another star and scoring sensation, Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. Ronaldo was held scoreless and Germany won its World Cup opener 4-0.
Normally a center back, Hoewedes has defied skeptics and has played a solid tournament.
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