Signed by Bayern Munich from Olimpia de Asuncion, he has lived up to the reputation he established in South America only fitfully in Europe.

The performances of the teenage prodigy in Paraguay certainly deserved the hype.

Aged just 17, Santa Cruz netted a hat-trick for Olimpia against Argentinian giants Velez Sarsfield in the quarter-finals of the Mercosur Cup.

The man between the sticks on that occasion was compatriot and goalkeeping legend Jose Luis Chilavert, still in the Paraguayan team but losing the battle in popularity against Santa Cruz.

He attracted the interest of Europe’s big-hitters after making his debut on the world stage at the Under-20 World Championships.

And another sterling role in the 1999 Copa America, where his five goals carried Paraguay to the quarter-finals, prompted Bayern to make their move.

Santa Cruz arrived in Germany amid much excitement prompted, in part, by former Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes’ claim that the Bavarians had discovered the new Van Basten.

Santa Cruz for his part was bemused by the fuss, arriving at Munich Airport with a guitar under his arm before taking a small flat which he shares with his father and younger brother who is working his way through the Bayern system.

But if Bayern expect great things of the modest 20-year-old, that is nothing compared to the hope vested in him back home.

Traditionally robust in defence, the Paraguayans now believe they have unearthed a striker capable of dazzling the world’s best defences.

Pele, Franz Beckenbauer and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge are among the football luminaries to have paid tribute to his talents, but it remains to be seen whether he can justify the praise.

Spain, for whom he could have played due to a Spanish grandfather, will be daunting opponents but the defences of South Africa and Slovenia should not intimidate him.

Beyond the second round, should the Paraguayans progress, Germany are likely opponents and what price then that Santa Cruz will take the opportunity to bite the hand that feeds him.