The Solomon Islands Bilikiki face the monumental task of beating the second best team in South America tommorrow if they hope to continue their dream run at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Rio de Janeiro 2006.

After Brazil, the undisputed kings of beach soccer, Uruguay have been the most successful South American side since they first took part in an international tournament back in 1995. Despite their proud record, however, the Charruas could do no better than a quarter-final berth at last year’s FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, which is why they are determined to make amends with an improved showing on their return to Rio de Janeiro this November.

Uruguay have enjoyed no less than five podium finishes at the Beach Soccer World Championship, the unofficial tournament that ran from 1995 to 2004 and served as the precursor to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

In 1996 and 1997, they lost successive finals to Brazil, with Rodolfo Rodriguez picking up the top scorer prize on both occasions and Venancio Ramos finishing joint top scorer with 11 goals in the second of these tournaments. In 1998 and 1999, the Celeste had to make do with third place, a finish they matched in 2002.

The Bilikiki currently sit on top of Group C by virtue of goal difference with world giants Portugal in second place. Uruguay lost their opening fixture 5-4 and need to beat the Bilikiki to ensure their future in the competition.

Uruguay will hope their star players can recover from that match and get the win that will get their campaign back on track.

Star player, Sarandi Sobral, better known as “Pampero”, has everything you could wish for in a beach soccer defender: physical presence, magnificent technique and a powerful shot from distance.

The 28-year-old has proved with his exemplary ball control and execution of free kicks that he has seamlessly adapted to the demands of beach soccer. “He is the most complete player we have either in attack or defence,” says his coach Venancio Ramos.

James Naka will provide the firepower for the Bilikiki if they are to cause another major upset in Rio.