In Mexico and the world, the name Giovani dos Santos is synonymous with goals.

From the time he was a child, his ability with the ball captivated all who saw him play. He won youth scoring titles seemingly at will, but it wasn''t until 2005, when Dos Santos was 16, that he became a national hero by helping Mexico beat Brazil to capture the FIFA U-17 (under 17) World Championship. From that point on, the eyes of soccer fans have been on him.

Dos Santos led Mexico to the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Football''s 2009 Gold Cup title, and he was named player of the tournament. Two years later, a dazzling Dos Santos goal late in the final match locked up another Gold Cup for Mexico.