In their first-ever finals, Benin have been giving a fair-share more than steady account of themselves at the FIFA World Youth Championship Netherlands 2005. The West Africans are undefeated with two points from two matches which puts them second in Group A ahead of a short trip north to take on the sizzling hosts with a second-round berth on the line.
With a goal apiece, Razak Omotoyossi and Abou Maiga have been sharp as tacks up front in the Lowlands. And diminutive French boss Serge Deveze has surely got the best out of his inexperienced first-timers so far in Kerkrade.
Two 1-1 draws against Australia and Japan have seen Benin into second place after two matches. The most-recent result, against the Japanese, was doubly impressive considering the Squirrels were reduced to ten men for the last twenty minutes.
Razak Omotoyossi (Benin)
One of the finals' revelations, muscular striker Razak Omotoyossi brought more than just a touch of class to the debutant Baby Squirrels of Benin. His goal against Australia in their first match saw him make history for the West African nation. With a keen ability to pick out holes and terrorise defenders with his blustery running on and off the ball, young Razak - who began playing football in Nigeria - is still plying his club trade back home in Benin. But considering the class he showed in a respectable debut, one wonders how long it will take for the youngster to be lured out of Africa.
Feng Xiaoting (China)
Like his idol, AC Milan's Paolo Maldini, China's captain Feng Xiaoting has displayed leadership, responsibility and energy from his centre-back role in his own team. The 1.87 m tall 19-year-old, has proved a dependable mainstay in China's defence so far in this FIFA World Youth Championship with his vision and coolness. His pace, dribbling and balance also makes him a potent weapon on the break when he pushes forward.