Mehdi Benatia: 'I'm not scared of Barcelona forwards'

Bayern Munich defender Mehdi Benatia has insisted that he does not fear Barcelona's front three ahead of the Champions League semi-final first leg.

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar have combined to score over 100 goals in all competitions this season, but Benatia is confident of making life difficult for the trio when the two sides meet at Camp Nou on Wednesday.

"I certainly respect those players, but I'm not scared," the Moroccan told the Bundesliga's official website. "I've played against Suarez in the Europa League when I was at Roma and he was at Liverpool so I already know him.

"Jerome Boateng and I are a strong defensive duo and if we manage to stay focused throughout the game we'll manage to do well at Camp Nou. I'm absolutely positive."

Bayern have lost just one of their eight competitive games against Barcelona.