Samoa have been involved in many upsets and courageous results on the world stage and there is every chance they can do that again in the 2011 World Cup.
They have played in every tournament since 1991, reached the quarter-finals in 1991 and 1995 and the quarter-final play-offfs in 1999.
The team had a disappointing showing in 2007, finishing fourth in their pool which required them to qualify for this year's event in the Oceania division.
They have beaten Wales twice at the World Cup over the years and will probably need to do it again this time to get out of a strong pool that also includes South Africa, Fiji and Namibia.
South Africa will prove too much for them so the final qualification from the group could well be decided by bonus points
Some famous names have played for Samoa, including Frank Bunce, Stephen Bachop, Pat Lam, and Brian Lima, and this year they have some players well known to New Zealanders in Ti'i Paulo, Anthony Perenise, Mahonri Schwalger, Kane Thompson, Kahn Fotuali'i, Seilala Mapusua, Tasesa lavea, George Pisi and Paul Williams.
Wales and South Africa will certainly not underestimate the danger of the Samoans, especially after the Islanders stunned the Wallabies in Sydney last month with their physical style and desire to succeed.
A standout performer that day was Alesana Tuilagi, one of five brothers to have played international rugby - all for Samoa, bar the youngest Manu who is in England's squad.
