From Russia with hope

Tense campaign
Now they compete in the final round for the first time at Under-19 level, but only after a tense qualification campaign. Placed in Group B in Finland with holders France, last year's runners-up Norway and ever-dangerous Italy, Russia will need to be at their best to progress to the knockout stages.

THE COACH:
Born in January 1941 in Moscow, Valentin Grishin played for FC Metallurg Cherepovets and FC Lokomotiv Moskva in addition to turning out for Krylya Sovetov Moskva at ice hockey. A qualified referee, he worked as a coach at Moscow's Electronic Institute from 1967-89, enjoying a number of successful campaigns. Grishin took charge of women's team FC SiM in 1990 and two years later was appointed coach of Russia's women's youth side, guiding them to the quarter-finals of the 1998 championship. He also presides over the Russian women's Olympic football team.

ROUTE TO THE FINALS:
In Lithuania for first qualifying round Group B7, Russia followed a 4-1 win against Northern Ireland with a conclusive 8-0 victory against the mini-tournament hosts. First place was then secured as they came from behind to hold Italy 1-1. Another final-round opponent, Norway, awaited as hosts of second qualifying round Group A4. Russia began by beating Ukraine 5-0, then defeated Austria 4-1, meaning they needed just a draw against Norway to qualify. But two second-half goals gave the hosts a 2-0 win and a finals place, leaving Russia to go through as one of the two best runners-up from the five groups, their record being second only to Switzerland's.