World Cup 66 RP Thread

by **Barunia** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 7:22 am

Second seed. So? it was just a number. Numbers meant little in football. Castolo looked across the room where his shirt hung over a chair, the dark red "9" clearly visible. News was the BFA would retire it whenever he decided to call it quit. Because he was the best. Or so they said, while at the same time deciding he wasn't good enough to start anymore. Too dangerous they said, shaking their heads. Fuck them.

Joric Ruskin was also looking at his game shirt. Number three. This was the shirt he'd worn that game, his world cup debut. His last match for the Suns. His last match ever, as it turned out. They'd retired his number too. Joric still couldn't work out why. Seven games. Seven games. That was all it took for him to be considered one of the greatest footballers in Barunia. Two wins, two draws, three losses.

"Some great", Joric muttered, and got on with his work. Facts and figures now. Opponent rankings, team strategies. Unfortunately, their opponents were being cagey and hadn't submitted any material about their players to the WCC, so Joric had little to work with. New Montreal States were the biggest threat. They were ranked number ten in the side, and qualified for the last two cups. Worryingly, while in previous cups Joric might have been content to let them have top spot and fight for the play-off, not this time. This time only one spot was open for qualification. It was do or die. Joric thought back to those days, right after his injury, when the Suns had fought themselves into the play-off spot. They'd done it for him, it had seemed, and he'd been on top of the world. Even after the devastating loss to West Angola, he'd still felt a sense of pride in his team. Now, would they take it all the way this time, and win it for him? Not as a fallen teammate, but as a coach? Stephen had confided in Joric that he would step back this year, and let Joric take a more commanding role. It was all part of Wiggens rather indefinite plan to retire. Joric suspected he was hanging on until he got into the World Cup. Or won some silverware, whatever came first. Something to leave his mark. Joric thought back to his own career. He'd already made his mark, but he wasn't comfortable with it. Maybe he could do something he'd be proud of as coach. That would be his aim. He could start by helping to get the Suns to the World Cup. Picking up his sheets, he returned to his work with renewed vigour.

by **Saintland** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 7:57 am

World Cup 66 qualifying draw: Saintland draws Group 7, Saugeais

(SP) For the third time, the Kingdom of Saintland has entered the World Cup. That means that another World Cup qualifying campaign is now upon us. Coming off their first ever victory in a Strongnesse Trophy match, the Saintland National Soccer Team is red-hot at the moment. The main reason is the emergence of Herakles Karoki, the striker who recently immigrated to our Kingdom from Acedonia. During the Games of the VIII Olympiad, in the Godless land of Liventia, Karoki led the Sanctii to an Olympic Gold Medal, defeating the Licentian Islands in the semis before stunning the Inevitable Syndicate in the gold medal match. After falling in the playoffs last time, the Sanctii will be hoping to break through and qualify in this World Cup. "Right now, our only priority is defeating whoever the WCC sees fit to put in front of us. Whether it is a perennial qualifier like Saugeais, a team on the rise like Neo Lemmitania or some nobodies straight out of the BoF, all of that is irrelevant to us. For the first time in a long time, my head is clear and I am single-mindedly focused on qualifying for the World Cup, for the Glory of God and His Kingdom. While Saugeais are certainly the favorites to qualify from this group, I believe that we can defeat Saugeais, as my brother Petrus defeated Qazox in the World Bowl, and I believe that we can win this group. By winning this group, we will advance to either Audioslavia or the Inevitable Syndicate. Despite what some unbelievers may say, the only thing that is inevitable is the Will of God. They can stack the deck against us as much as they want, but if it is the Will of God, we will overcome anyway. After we get done teaching those Republican youths how to play at the international level, we will open qualifying at Royal Stadium against Neo Lemmitania and we will defeat Neo Lemmitania with God's help." - Prince Andreas

Audioslavia and the Inevitable Syndicate were elected hosts of World Cup 66, beating out a bid from Cup of Harmony 56 co-hosts Apox and the Licentian Islands and another bid from Aels and Ossidiacqua. The new World Cup hosts pushed through a bizarre qualifying format that would see qualifying reduced to a total of 10 matchdays. In this World Cup, qualifying will be conducted through 30 groups of 6. Only the group winner will qualify for the World Cup. The other 5 teams from each group will have to sit back and hope for an invitation to the Cup of Harmony, which will not, let's pray, be hosted by either Cassadaigua or the Equestrian States this time around. If the Sanctii somehow end up stuck in the Cup of Harmony again, the last thing we need is another host like Cassadaigua that encourages their citizens to toss apples onto the pitch. Thanks to the foolish decision by the WCC to award those nations a Cup of Harmony, the National Soccer Team faced a shocking group stage exit.

However, there is not a single man on the National Soccer Team that doesn't believe that this team is going to qualify for the World Cup. The Olympic Gold Medalists not only hope to qualify for the World Cup, but also to win the entire thing in their first Finals appearance. Just 3 World Cups ago, a nation finally qualified for the World Cup and, in their first World Cup Finals appearance in an eternity, won the World Cup. For good measure, this very team went on to win the following World Cup as well. That is the blueprint that the Sanctii will attempt to follow in this World Cup.

The Group Draw was held earlier today at the WCC headquarters and broadcast live on worldwide television. Royal One carried it live in the Kingdom of Saintland. The Sanctii were, based on their 57th ranking in the latest KPB poll, a #2 seed for this World Cup. They were drawn into Group 7, where they will open at home against #104 Neo Lemmitania. Long ago, the nation of Lemmitania was a power in world soccer. They won World Cup 10 and hosted 3 World Cups. After solo-hosting World Cup 6, the last ever World Cup to be solo-hosted, they co-hosted World Cup 7 with Audioslavia. This was Audioslavia's first ever World Cup as a host. Audioslavia would also co-host World Cup 25. Lemmitania would go on to host World Cup 12 with Kaze Progressa, which was also Audioslavia's co-host for World Cup 25. Then, Lemmitania disappeared from the world of international soccer, only to re-emerge at BoF 52 as Neo Lemmitania. They would finish in 21st place in the Casaran stage, failing to qualify for the second round. In their first World Cup qualifying campaign back, Neo Lemmitania finished in 5th place, with just 28 points, behind Legalese, Starblaydia, Zwangzug and Krytenia. In the Cup of Disharmony, as the farce of a Cup of Harmony hosted by Cassadaigua and the Equestrian States has come to be known, Neo Lemmitania finished even with Taeshan atop Group G, eliminating Northern Sunrise Islands, Qazox and Neu Engellon from the CoDh. In the Round of 16, they would be eliminating by eventual champions West Angola and now enter their second World Cup since their return, hoping for a breakthrough. The Sanctii will be doing everything in their power to prevent such a breakthrough.

In their second match of World Cup 66 qualifying, the Sanctii will travel to Savski Venac. Savski Venac are currently ranked 146th in the world by KPB. Savski Venac is an on-again off-again World Cup entrant, seemingly entering or not entering World Cups at random. That is not the way to earn a spot in the elite of international soccer. Their first World Cup cycle was the 56th cycle, where they entered the BoF, winning 1 match and losing 4 in the group stage and finishing last. The SP has never even heard of any of the other nations from their BoF group. Bizarrely, 32 teams, the top 4 in each group, advanced out of the group stage at BoF 43. True to form, Savski Venac finished 7th in a group of 8 in World Cup 56 qualifying, staying out of last only on a tiebreaker. The only thing notable about that group was the mid-table finish of Legalese. After skipping out on World Cup 57, Savski Venac attempted to qualify, once again, for the 58th World Cup. They finished in 8th place in a 9-team group, edging out the last place team by a single point. After missing World Cup 59, Savski Venac returned for World Cup 60, actually released a roster and finished 5th in a group of 8. For some reason, Savski Venac wasted that momentum, sitting out World Cups 61 and 62 and, in World Cup 63, they returned to their customary second-to-last position in their group. This time around, they finished 9th in a group of 10. After again missing a World Cup, they returned at World Cup 65 and finished 7th in a group of 10. Now, for the first time ever, they have entered consecutive World Cups. They will be hoping for their first ever top-half finish in a WCC event, but you'd be hard-pressed to find any gambler in the Free Republics that would bet on that.

The third match of World Cup 66 qualifying for the Sanctii will be unranked Masentur. Masentur is a nation that is competing in their first international sports event. Little is known about them and it appears that little will be known about them. As of this writing, they have yet to release their roster and the SP is unaware of any media coverage of their team whatsoever. If this continues to remain the case, this team will likely be an easy win for the other 5 teams in this qualifying group, judging by the past history of such nations in the World Cup.

Matchday 4 is the first of the 2 matches that will likely decide who wins Group 7 and advances to Audioslavia or the Inevitable Syndicate. Yes, on Matchday 4, the Sanctii will travel to Saugeais to face the co-hosts of World Cup 65. Saugeais made their debut in the 53rd World Cup cycle, entering BoF 40. At a time when the level of competition in the BoF was not as high as it is today (OOC: Judging by a quick glance at some of the RPs.), Saugeais finished 1st in their group, but fell in the Round of 16, called the Regional Quarterfinals for some reason, to some nation that has long since disappeared from the international sports world. Saugeais went on to finish 9th in a group of 10 in World Cup 53 qualifying. Somehow, Saugeais was still invited to Cup of Harmony 45, where they finished 6th in a group of 7, only beating out Qazox. Under the bizarre format for that CoH, there were 4 groups of 7. Saugeais returned for World Cup 54, where they finished second in Zone 29, a group of 5, barely advancing on a tiebreaker over Western Cuba and a now-forgotten nation. They advanced to the Interzonal in Qazox, where they finished 4th in a group of 6, ahead of Osarius. Jeru FC, Sarzonia and Queer Poco el Mono Ara advanced to the World Cup out of that group. At the 46th Cup of Harmony, Saugeais would finish last in their group of 4, behind Western Cuba. World Cup 55 wasn't any more promising for Saugeais, as they finished 7th in a group of 11. Co-hosting Cup of Harmony 47 with Sarzonia, Saugeais was not invited to their own CoH. They had hit rock bottom.

Saugeais again entered in World Cup 56 and, this time, they finished 3rd in their group, being eliminated on the final day. Saugeais would return to the Cup of Harmony in the 48th edition, finishing 3rd in a group of 3, yet another disappointment for them. In World Cup 57, they again finished 3rd, this time just a point back of Dorian and Sonya, now known as the Sylvanaes Queendom. Saugeais finally advanced out of the group stage at Cup of Harmony 49, finishing second in a group of 5, just behind Osarius. Somehow, Saugeais would knock out their future World Cup 65 co-host Pasarga in the second round before falling Erathore, who would finish 3rd in that CoH, in the quarterfinals. This was a sign that Saugeais was finally beginning to become something other than a joke in the world of international soccer. Indeed, they would edge out Vilita for a playoff spot in their very next qualifying campaign. After defeating a now-forgotten nation in the playoffs, Saugeais qualified for the World Cup. 3 days later, they had lost to Aguazul, Valanora and Pasarga.

After such a humiliating exit from their first World Cup, they still found a way to make it right back to the very next World Cup, where they defeated Valanora in their 3rd match to advance to the Round of 16 as a group winner. They fell to Jeruselem. They would co-host World Cup 60, qualifying for a third consecutive World Cup. This time, they would again advance out of the group stage finishing first in their group. However, they would defeat Cassadaigua on penalties to get out of the Round of 16 before falling to eventual champions The Holy Empire AET in the quarters.

In World Cup 61, Saugeais would finish 3rd in their qualifying group, being stunned by Kiryu-shi. This proves that they can be sent to the Cup of Harmony. Saugeais would be stunned again in the Cup of Harmony, finishing 3rd in their group behind West Angola and Stachland, with Stachland eliminating Saugeais on the final day. In World Cup 62, they made it back to the playoffs, where they were summarily eliminated by Aguazul. This time around, they made it out of the group stage in the CoH before going on to defeat Apox, Jeruselem and Milchama. They would fall 2 goals to nil in the finals against Andossa se Mitrin Vega. In World Cup 63 qualifying, Saugeais would finish behind the FSSO, now known as Eura, and United Gordonopia, once again heading to the Cup of Harmony. Saugeais would dominate their group at Cup of Harmony 55 and defeat Ossidiacqua in the Round of 16 before falling to Jeru FC. In World Cup 64, Saugeais would make it back to the World Cup and advance out of the group stage before falling to the Sylvanaes Queendom. After finally making it back to the World Cup, Saugeais wasn't taking any chances in qualifying, as they hosted World Cup 65. On the final day of the group stage, they finally got back at Kiryu-shi for sending them into a lengthy slump, defeating Kiryu-shi on the final day of the group stage to advance. After knocking out Starblaydia in the Round of 16, they fell to the Holy Empire in the quarters, just as they did in the other World Cup that they hosted. Now, ranked 12th in the world, Saugeais is favored to qualify for this World Cup, but they will not do so if our National Soccer Team has anything to say about it.

Finally, the Sanctii will finish off the first half of group stage by hosting Kitsuneshima at home. The 317th ranked nation in the world, Kitsuneshima's only experience in international sports was at the recently-concluded 53rd Baptism of Fire. Kitsuneshima finished 5th in a group of 6, edging out only the Kingdom of Costa Luna. Judging by their lack of success in the Baptism of Fire, Kitsuneshima will likely be competing with Savski Venac and Masentur to stay out of last place in this group.

As usual, the schedule will be repeated for the second half of qualifying, with the home and away teams flipped. The spot in World Cup 66 could very well come down to Matchday 9, when Saugeais visits Royal Stadium. With King Paulus XV the Great and Wise taking measures to prevent domestic terrorist organizations from disrupting upcoming World Cup matches, it appears that the Sanctii may finally be able to focus on qualifying for the World Cup, without having to worry about evildoers that want to turn our Kingdom into yet another wicked nation. Given the history of Saugeais and the lack of any compelling opposition in the lower half of this group, it appears that this may be our time to qualify for the World Cup. While we know that it is God's Will that we will eventually dominate the World Cup as much as Aguazul, the Holy Empire and Audioslavia have dominated the World Cup in recent years, we do not yet know when that will come to pass. One can only hope that the Olympic Gold medal, the Strongnesse victory and the emergence of Herakles Karoki are signs that it is now time for the Sanctii to advance to the World Cup and to do so with a relentless aggression reminiscent of the National Gridiron Team, a National Gridiron Team that is, as of this writing, undefeated in the current World Bowl. All of the signs certainly indicate that it will not be much longer before our Kingdom takes its rightful place among the international soccer elite.

OOC: Needless to say, the criticism of the last CoH hosts is entirely IC. I probably got carried away doing the WCC history of my groupmates, but I did it during the last CoH and I decided I'd do it here for qualifying.

by **Free Republics** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:30 am

Sporting World

We're back in the World Cup
by: Rule Theriault

Although the staff at this magazine will no longer permit the beautiful and talented Nova Hellstrom to cover us, your Di Bradini Cup champions are returning to the World Cup for another shot at qualification. Somehow, the Evitable Syndicate, a nation that inevitably fails to qualify for the World Cup, has been elected a co-host of the World Cup, along with Audioslavia. Apparently, after we picked up a draw to deny them a spot in the last World Cup, they decided to host a World Cup to sneak in through the back door. Maybe, if things don't work out in this World Cup, we can talk to those Sanctii about a bid to co-host the next World Cup. If we can sneak that by the WCC, maybe we'll be able to appoint Sanctii officials to all of the matches to ensure that the World Cup field is made up of nations like the Kingdom of Costa Luna, Britonisea and the Evangelical Islands of Altai. That would be the perfect way to ensure that our 2 nations met in the final which, knowing our luck, would be yet another 2 to 1 defeat at the hands of the Sanctii. Unfortunately, that would never happen. The rest of the world hates our Federation because we are free, so they'd never let us host a World Cup. Well, I'm proud to be a Republican because at least I know I'm free.

Actually, now that I'm thinking about Nova, I remember how disgraceful it was that Sporting World re-assigned her, just because she wrote a hilarious satirical article about the Internet instead of writing about a soccer match. When her soccer reporting was met with an endless flood of trolls, including alleged "journalists" from some foreign media outlets, it is no wonder that she snapped. In her final article, she wrote about something called the adbot, a special kind of online commenter that was drowning out the trolls with links to call girls, free credit reports and even music. In her article, she mentioned Cantvs Feministvs, a musical group formed by Feministvs Sanctvsterra, a radical women's organization in Saintland. While I must admit that women in Saintland have fewer rights than they should, I also think that this organization, from what I've heard about them, is probably too extreme. Personally, I wish the King of Saintland would listen to reason and allow women to seek employment and leave his Kingdom without being accompanied by a husband or male relative. I respect their right to live in the way they are accustomed to, but they go a little too far, in my opinion.

Regardless, you have probably heard, by now, about the recent arrests of several Feministvs Sanctvsterra members for computer hacking. Other members of the organization, as you would know if you read the details, were arrested for operating adbots, which was made a Federation-level felony several years ago. I have been closely following their trial and can inform those of you that are not that the Federation courts are currently considering whether to deport the feminist activists to Saintland or to prosecute them under Republican law. Obviously, this is a very difficult decision. The Sanctii are notorious for their excessive punishments, although they are downright civilized compared to the Gregoryisgodistani barbarians. However, these women are Sanctii nationals and have committed serious crimes in Saintland. Fittingly, the decision is going to come down to a jury of their peers, all of whom are women. Personally, I think it was rather foolish of them to insist on an all-female jury, but that is their right and the prosecution was all too happy to go along with that request. If I had been their attorney, I would have counseled them to ask for an all-male jury and try to charm the men of the jury into letting them off. That just seems like a much better option to me, but they are the ones whose bodies are on the line.

More to the point, you may be wondering about the outcome of our regional championship match against the Sanctii, held yesterday at Church of Saintland Stadium in Albertope, Roxawa. I'm sure everybody reading this wants to forget that friendly against the Felix Trolls from 2-3 months ago, so I apologize for reminding you about it. The Sanctii struck first, as the Sanctii Prince put up a goal just 33 seconds into the match and he did it from long range. Eventually, we fought our way back into the match, as Kyle Bolton equalized in the 31st minute. Due to our mutual respect for one another, it was a clean match with both sides repeatedly trying to score the winning goal. In the end, Karoki came through for the Sanctii, giving them a goal in the 72nd minute. We were unable to equalize, as the Sanctii suddenly went defensive against us and we lost 2 goals to 1, just as we did in our previous match against the Sanctii.

This means that our international soccer program has faced disappointment after disappointment since our glorious Di Bradini Cup victory in Wight several months ago. The less said about my assistant's performance in the U-15 World Cup, the better. Going into this World Cup qualifying campaign, I have serious concerns about my team's desire. They just don't seem motivated to compete at a high level. I can only hope that competing in the World Cup lights a fire under them.

There are 182 nations that entered this World Cup. As hosts, Audioslavia and the Inevitable Syndicate qualify automatically. That means that the other 180 nations are going to be divided into 30 groups of 6. This just makes it more difficult to get into the World Cup, since there is a large difference in class between Polar Islandstates and a team like West Angola or Valladares that didn't even qualify for the World Cup last time. However, all 3 of those nations are top seeds. While those Sanctii are a second seed and are hoping for Saugeais to struggle, just as they did in World Cup 61 after co-hosting the previous World Cup, the FFR is a third seed. That means that we are picked to finish 3rd in our group, out of 6 teams.

However, things are not what they seem. We will start off the group stage by visiting Super-Llamaland. They are an established mediocrity in the world of international soccer which means that we will not have to upset a future power to get into the World Cup. We will then travel to Riojasia. Riojasia is a newcomer in this World Cup cycle, who went out of the BoF in the Round of 16. Fortunately, they don't appear to be one of the more dangerous teams from the most recent BoF. Then, we will finally get a home match, as we will host Kalusia at Olden Stadium in Falkamore, Nejax. While Kalusia are ranked around the same spot where we are ranked and also competed in last year's BoF, they were not invited to the Cup of Harmony, indicating that they are not seen as a potential power of international soccer. Our 4th opponent will be the Evangelical Islands of Altai. Little is known about them, but they are not expected to amount to much.

If everything goes right, that means that the 2 most important matches of qualifying will be our matches against top seeded Gyatso-Kai. Gyatso-Kai has qualified for 7 World Cups in a row, but has only made it out of the group stage on a single occasion, in World Cup 61. Although they have qualified for 7 consecutive World Cups, I have been scouting them closely since the draw and I think they look vulnerable. On the 5th day of qualifying, we will find out when they visit the Soccer Palace in Petrograd.

I have chosen to keep the same team that has been intact since Di Bradini Cup 27 for this qualifying campaign. I believe that their superior team chemistry will help them win Group 29 and advance to the World Cup. Despite their struggles in recent friendlies, I remain confident that this side can find their form in time to defeat Super-Llamaland in the opener. From there, we will have another 9 matches to go. I am looking forward to this. While we are the underdogs, we are confident of our ability to shock the world and qualify for the World Cup. I will be rooting for our neighbors at the north pole and I am hopeful that our region will send 2 teams to the World Cup Finals this year.

Rule Theriault is the manager for the FFR's National Soccer Team. He was the manager of Petrograd United. After a disappointing end to his tenure there, he entered a team in the 27th Di Bradini Cup on behalf of the Federation of Free Republics. His mostly unheralded team finished 2nd in that competition, losing to the Equestrian States in the final. He led the National Soccer Team to a 17th place finish in the 52nd Baptism of Fire and a 6th place finish in Group 20 during World Cup qualifying. In the Cup of Harmony, the National Soccer Team overcame having to play in the Equestrian States and came back to win their final 2 matches, including a shocking victory over Jeru FC, one of the true powers of international soccer. In the 28th Di Bradini Cup, he led the FFR right back to the finals, this time finishing on the right note. He will be managing the Free Republics in another World Cup qualifying attempt.

by **Sandwich Territories** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 12:13 pm

Quite a bit has happened since the 57th Cup of Harmony. The lads had gone to the Olympics. Patrick Ward retired officially. That was a big deal. He had his #19 retired and was inducted into the Sandwich Sporting Hall of Fame. The biggest news of all was that Bruce Ments was able to come back from cardiac arrest, and is in the starting line-up, to much shock, and to the dismay of some people. One person was quoted as saying, "He just had a cardiac arrest, there is no way he ought to be playing one bit in the WC66". Max Bellerd insists that, "Bruce himself has told me he wants to try it out, and I will let him do so. If anything seems wrong, we will take the steps needed to get him off of the pitch ASAP".

We will have to wait and see what happens next for the Royals, as not much has been said by the squad. However, we expect much more to come in the following days.

by **Apox** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 12:14 pm

OOC: This match took place ICly before the friendly against NSI, they've just been RPed the other way around due to the times Eura and NSI posted their rosters.

Dravid Scott had to wait for his second match in charge of the national team for a victory, and what a victory it was! Apox vs Eura, Apox hoping to do what Eura did and surprise everyone with a good run in the World Cup. Admittedly, Eura have been a footballing power for some time now, having reached the final of World Cup 60, their first appearance in a finals tournament, in the tournament before the Apox National Football Team even existed. How things change.

For Apox, they fielded a side full of a couple of debutants, Jack Lerryn most notably in right defence for Jack Forster - keeping the Jack trend alive and well there. Matthias Sindelar had his first game as captain of the national team, with only 11 starting caps to his name. However, as he walked out onto the field, he was greeted by a roaring full house of people who had come to see this first of two friendlies to warm up for the shorter World Cup qualifiers for a place in Audioslavia or The Inevitable Syndicate next year.

Eura were instantly pressing, with Sam Thomas being a threat upfront from the off, with a couple of well hit shots right from the off. The strike partnership of Tolgus Tregajorran and Keri Ularu, took some time to gel, the two players having quite different styles of play. However, it was in the 15th minute when Tolgus Tregajorran proved to the entire watching nation why he is considered the hottest prospect in Apoxian football at the moment, receiving the ball in the centre from Ivo Trevowah, another hot prospect, before dinking past Michael Robertson, who was gaining his 100th cap, before blasting a most excellent shot past Daniel Belgrave, by far the most experienced player on the pitch, into the top right corner. Apox had an early lead, and as you'd expect, the fans went wild. This is what Dravid Scott needed.

However, the momentum was all Eura's as they restarted, they were relentless heading forward, and Jack Lerryn performed well under the pressure, where you'd expect most young debutants to crack. It was nearly 1-1 when Tom Riley headed a good ball in from a corner, which bounced off the crossbar and out of play.

The Euran equaliser would come soon enough though, as Sam Thomas played a glorious ball through to Skorji Olsograd on the edge of the box. Oslograd took a shot which was clearly aimed for the far right post, which is where Will Hewitt dived to, to stop the ball. Unfortunately for Hewitt, and luckily for Eura and Oslogard, he mishit the ball, with skidding into the net at the bottom left corner. 1-1, and Eura were back in the game.

A couple of minutes later, there was a good chance to equalise by Apox, after a yellow card to Craig Sinclair and a free-kick 35 metres out. However, Sindelar was unable to convert it, the ball whistling harmlessly over the crossbar. A couple of minutes later, and with no further exciting action, the whistle for half time was blown, the match poised to fall one way or the other.

Unusually for a friendly, there were no changes at half time, with the same sides heading out for the second half. Not for long though, as Fran Gracie was replaced for Armando Quillisi after 50 minutes, having picked up a minor calf strain, something the coaching staff did not want to turn into a greater injury.

However, it soon became clear that it would require a stroke of luck for one side to grab a winner, things were so evenly balanced. Both sides had a couple of shots on goal, but no real chances, and for the most part it was a thrilling midfield battle, with Eura coming out just on top in the midfield. Both sides made a number of tactical changes at this point, the most controversial of which was Keri Ularu's substitution to give the 32 year old Grant Pickton his debut, especially as Ularu had been playing well up until that point.

What an inspired decision it would turn out to be, with a free-kick to Apox in the 76th minute due to a foul on Ivo Trevowah by Chad Parsons. Matthias Sindelar stepped up to the ball, and floated a difficult ball into the box. Grant Pickton was in the centre, and somehow, he managed to lose his marker and launch his 5 foot 7 body into the oncoming path of the ball, striking it well and sending it flying into the back of the net. The crowd exploded, it was a dream debut for Grant Pickton. Goal with on of his first touches.

From then on, the task seemed easier, the Euran's had less fight left in them. They still had a lot of fight though, Sam Thomas putting a shot just wide with 3 minutes to play, but at the end of time, Apox were winners, a good sign for Dravid Scott and the team heading into the Vermouth Trophy and into qualifiers themselves.

Team Sheet from the Match (scorers in bold)
GK - Will Hewitt
RD - Jack Lerryn
CD - Fronden Abel
LD - Hans Nielssen
DM - Matthias Sindelar (c)
RM - Ivo Trevowah
CM - Will Fich
CM - Jack Moses
LM - Fran Gracie sub Armando Quillisi 64'
ST - Keri Ularu sub Grant Pickton 70'
ST - Tolgus Tregajorran

Apox Group Draw Announced

Apox have, for the first time, been drawn as the top seed of a group, being drawn in Group 26. There we will face Mapletish, Hutt River, Quakmybush, Camerania and the weirdly named, Above My Pay Grade. After a quick examining of the teams we will be facing, experts have decided that group 26 is a moderately easy one, with Mapletish and Hutt River being tough games, but ultimately one where a good result should be achievable. The games against Quakmybush and Camerania should be easy, though never underestimated; many a good team have been caught out by an unsuspecting underdog before. As for the game against Above My Pay Grade, the AFB are worried as to whether that game will take place, as they have not heard from the authorities in that country to even tell us where it is, the AFB are eager to avoid a shambles similar to the Penileanium games last cycle which were forfeited, ultimately in Apox's favour. No tickets are being sold yet for the home game against Above My Pay Grade, and none will be until their government gets in contact with ours.

by **Sicoutimont** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 12:59 pm

The Lac-Drouin Times
Sports Report
On the Eve of World Cup 66, what's in store for Sicoutimont?

So, here we are again. The eve of the World Cup Qualifying, the biggest event of the 2021-2022 tournament. April-September. 2021. Our national football team recently completed a few friendlies in the pre-season, but the SFA has been cutting back on those matches. The only ones played, in fact, where the Des Monts Ila Vai Cup matches with Maklohi Vai. Game 1, in Maklohi Vai, saw sunny, warm weather, perfect for the game about to unfold. The match was quite even, with both defences struggling: 5 chances each for both sides in the first 30 minutes. Girard Giroux thought he had put his side up 1-0 in the 7th minute, with a hard shot over the keeper, but Numatao Makai was able to get a glove on it. Speaking of that, both keepers were stellar early on. Pier-Luc Dion and Makai stopped every shot they faced in the first half, which happened to be quite a lot. The end of the half, Sicoutimont thought that a play should have been called a penalty shot, however, the tackle from Wono Kalopai happened just outside the box, giving the visitors a free kick that went over the net, ending the half. To the second half now, in this part of the match, you knew that the home side were going to pull away at some point. They got much more shots than Les Royales, and basically outplayed them for the better part of the match. Sicoutimont almost got lucky on a corner in the 54th minute, but the header went over the net and out of play. Finally, in the 68th minute, the hosts got their break. Klaus Lomupakani-Wagner broke away from Yves Savard's coverage, being fed a pass from a midfielder. Lomupakani-Wagner got in close, and was finally able to get the ball behind Pier-Luc Dion. 1-0 Maklohi Vai. And, 4 minutes later, it was Tumo Makanopalani, the all-time leading scorer at the DMIVC, getting the ball, and you knew he would score. 2-0. Sicoutimont tried to bounce back late, with good chances in the 88th minute, but it wasn't enough. Maklohi Vai took the first match 2-0. The second game, at Stade St-Pierre, in Lac-Drouin, was played on a rainy, cold spring day. Well, maybe not 'spring': March 23rd, the 2nd day of spring, but it still felt like winter, with a -2 temperature and snow still on the ground around the stadium. Regardless, the game got underway. It was quite painful to watch early on. The ball barely moved past midfield. But, when there were breaks, there were quality chances for both sides. Vaian striker Makanopalani thought he had scored in the 4th minute, but it went off the post. He wouldn't be fooled again in the 6th, however, and a powerful missile of a strike made the net bulge. 1-0 for the visitors. Sicoutimont would, however, ever so surely claw their way back, taking over the possession charts later on in the match. That culminated in the 52nd minute, with a cross from Fernard Girard, subbed into the game for Yves Savard, getting on Jean de Terre's chest for a volley and a chip that would tie the score. But that was all they would do, and the second game proved to be meaningless, as Maklohi Vai took the friendly cup with 1 win and 1 tie. Congrats to the winners!

Match Ratings For: Des Monts Ila Vai Cup, vs. Maklohi Vai

Name        Match 1          Match 2
P-L. Dion     7.9               6.6
Y. Savard     5.8               8.6
N. Kent        6.4               6.8
L. Leduc      7.4               8.3
O. de Orebale  8.1           8.1
A. Urbaille   5.7               7.1
J. de Terre  6.8               9.1
H. Richelieu  6.1              7.3
G. Giroux   7.4               8.8
A. Gannot  8.1                7.8
C. Savard   6.3               7.1
F. Girard    --                 6.7
G. Allonts   7.1               --
S. Sarault  --                 8.1
MotM: O. de Orebale (M1), J. de Terre (M2)

Oscar de Orebale came up big in the first game, outshining a less than stellar defence in the first game with 3 blocked shots, a few interceptions and 1 shot on target. In the second game, it had to be Jean de Terre, with the only goal of the match, but also a strong defensive effort in the second half.

For our next order of business: the groups for World Cup 66 have been drawn! Sicoutimont are in Group 3, along with....well, you'll see.

Starblaydia
Last World Cup: Round of 16
World Ranking: 11th
What should we expect: It's Starblaydia. Expect the best, from one of the best.

Estope
Last World Cup: Qualifying (5th in Group 18)
World Ranking: 77th
What should we expect: In 1 game previous with the side, Sicoutimont won 3-1. Now, expect a tight match from this Estope team.

Åsløtten-Bëðerbørg så Česky
Last World Cup: Baptism of Fire 53, Quarterfinals
World Ranking: 216th
What should we expect: A new nation on the scene, ABsC (Yes, we copy-pasted the name originally) look to be a challenge for the top nations to get past in Qualifying.

Fiendish Snackers
Last World Cup: Baptism of Fire 53, Group Stage (3rd in Group G)
World Ranking: 291st
What should we expect: Not much. A low-ranked team from the BoF, but be on your guard playing them, in case of an upset.

Evisceratomatoes
Last World Cup: Baptism of Fire 53, Group Stage (Last in Group D)
World Ranking: T-372nd
What should we expect: It was hard to find this team, partially because it can be spelt many different ways. But, they're here, and it's the same as above: still play them as hard as any other team, as they could be an upsetter.

Group Stage Schedule
MD1-April 20, 2021-Sicoutimont vs Estope, @ Stade St-Pierre, Lac-Drouin
MD2-April 27, 2021-Åsløtten-Bëðerbørg så Česky vs Sicoutimont
MD3-May 4, 2021-Sicoutimont vs Evisceratomatoes (May 4 Day Match), @ Pierre Beach Stadium, Pierre Beach
MD4-May 13, 2021-Starblaydia vs Sicoutimont
MD5-May 20, 2021-Sicoutimont vs Fiendish Snackers, @ Stade St-Pierre, Lac-Drouin
Mid-Qual Break
MD6-June 21, 2021-Estope vs Sicoutimont
MD7-July 4, 2021-Sicoutimont vs Åsløtten-Bëðerbørg så Česky, @ Stade St-Pierre, Lac-Drouin
MD8-August 17, 2021-Evisceratomatoes vs Sicoutimont
MD9-September 4, 2021-Sicoutimont vs Starblaydia, @ Pierre Beach Stadium, Pierre Beach
MD10-September 10, 2021-Fiendish Snackers vs Sicoutimont

The first half of qualifiers takes place from April 20-May 20, 2021. The second half, played over a much longer period of time, lasts from June 20-September 10, 2021. Play-off dates will be announced if they are needed.

So with that, we leave you. Will Les Royales finally break into the World Cup? Can they upset the 5-time World Champion Starblaydians to advance? Find out with us, as The Lac-Drouin Times brings you World Cup 66.

by **Ko-oren** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 1:05 pm

Group 28

Ko-oren 24th (40 points in previous Qualification, 3 points in WC)
Kinitaria 36th (44 points in previous Qualification, 15 points in Cup of Harmony)
HorusLand 109th (26 points in previous Qualification, 2 points in Cup of Harmony)
Albaie 161st (18 points in previous Qualification)
Furellum 275th (10 points in Baptism of Fire)
Kidlantis 330th (4 points in Baptism of Fire)

Ko-oren - Albaie (KIN-HOR, FUR-KID): 3-4-3, 20:30 @ National Stadium, Ko-oren City
Kidlantis - Ko-oren (ALB-KIN, FUR-HOR): 3-5-5, ?
Ko-oren - Furellum (KIN-KID, HOR-ALB): 4-S, 18:00 @ Wind Arena, Tangku
Ko-oren - Kinitaria (FUR-ALB, KID-HOR): 4-2-2, 21:00 @ Thunder Arena, Esthauan
HorusLand - Ko-oren (KIN-FUR, ALB-KID): 4-3-4, ?
Albaie - Ko-oren (HOR-KIN, KID-FUR): 4-4-5, ?
Ko-oren - Kidlantis (KIN-ALB, HOR-FUR): 4-6-2, 20:00 @ Wind Arena, Tangku
Furellum - Ko-oren (KID-KIN, ALB-HOR): 5-1-2, Duke's Place, Altsby
Kinitaria - Ko-oren (ALB-FUR, HOR-KID): 5-2-4, ?
Ko-oren - HorusLand (FUR-KIN, KID-ALB): 5-M, 20:00 @ National Stadium, Ko-oren City

Kinitaria finished second after Mapletish in their CoH group, advancing to a Round of 16 game against Milchama, who came from a group with Paradystopia, Kandorith and HorusLand. The latter finished 4th in this group, and were 7 points away from qualification. A 1-0 victory over Milchama put Kinitaria in the third round overall, the quarterfinal, against Filopines. The team even bested them (1-3), and only in the semifinals they were eliminated (1-3) against Jeruselem. Furellum did not manage to get past the group stages of the Baptism of Fire, but only barely. Rabbitomia and Alitaba did qualify from their group. Kidlantis ended up in fourth place, behind qualifiers Monozygotia and Vaugania and third placed Patistan.

Ko-oren only has a record against Kinitaria, from all teams in Group 28: two games, one in two consecutive Cup of Harmonies.
(CoH 54/WC 62)Kinitaria 2-2 Ko-oren (2-2 AET, 9-8 PK)
(CoH 53/WC 61)Ko-oren 0-1 Kinitaria
The first was played after the qualification phase for World Cup 61, which was won by Kinitaria 0-1. The other was victory for Kinitaria as well, in the Round of 16. The teams were separated by one penalty kick after 17 of them were already scored! Hopefully we get two more of these close games, for those will surely have the fans cheering for both teams, and hopefully attract some neutral supporters as well.

For this qualification cycle, we start and end the entire thing with a home game. As for our chances: we should be able to come out with a victory against the three lowest teams. HorusLand and Kinitaria are surely more difficult, so we expect a 7-3-0 record at the end: seven victories, three draws (both games against Kinitaria, and the away game against HorusLand). That, combined with our defensive playing style, could still give us the first place in the group and a World Cup ticket.

So in preparation for this World Cup, again no friendlies. Sadly. Other countries are always looking for opportunities to make their team stronger, and often invite teams that did better than themselves during the last few tournaments. In the Ko-orenite camp, as always, the focus lies solely with the qualification itself. No need to make yourself any weaker by playing friendlies and exhausting yourself.

by **Catholican Catholica** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 2:01 pm

CCSN World Cup 66 Coverage
Tournament Preview

James: Hello and welcome to CCSN's coverage of World Cup 66. I am football analyst James Kelly, and I am reporting live in CCSN Studios here in New Hope, Catholican Catholica. We are here to talk about the upcoming World Cup, the World Cup 66 Roster for the Blue Eagles, and the group draw which took place yesterday. Firstly, the group draw. Yesterday, the group draw for World Cup 66 Qualifying was held yesterday. It was broadcast on CCSN, and attracted hundreds of thousands of viewers to see which teams the Blue Eagles will play against. The Blue Eagles were drawn in Group 11. The five teams in the group with them in order of ranking are: Polar Islandstates, Paradystopia, Alexanderburn, Crystal Empire, and Sameba. Now, here to talk to me about the teams in our group is Sports Recap co-host and CCSN football analyst Thomas Gillingham. Thomas, tell our viewers about the teams in the group.

Thomas: In our group, we have first the Polar Islandstates. The Polar Islandstates are ranked #1 in the world at the moment. They are a very formidable team, with very strong players. Their players have very good skill, and are good on offense as well as on defense. One player on that team, Alexsandr van Sorensen, is a very strong player on the attack. He can pretty much do anything with the ball. He is a great striker, and can be there when you need him, and is very reliable to get the job done. Our team's defense needs to really look out for him because he is a very good player, physically and mentally. The next team in our group is Paradystopia. They are ranked 43rd in the world. In last year's World Cup, they finished in 2nd place in their group, Group 15. They finished just behind Gyatso-Kai. Although they are ranked 43rd, they can still be a bit of a hassle to our team, the Blue Eagles, because our team is just growing, and they have only participated in one world cup, World Cup 64. Our team finished dead-last in their group, getting no wins. Paradystopia is still a real threat. Next on the list we have Alexanderburn. They are ranked 108th in the world at the moment. They finished in fifth in their group, Group 18. They are not a big threat, but they still are a better team than ours, because they have a little bit more experience. Next, we have Crystal Empire. They are ranked 214th in the world, and they aren't much of a threat to us because I have faith that we can at least draw with this team. Crystal Empire have a little bit more experience than us. Their players are a bit more better trained and more skilled than the players on the Blue Eagles, but I have faith in our team that we can at least draw with them. They are a little more defensive, relying on their midfielders to provide support, which is how the Blue Eagles play. The last team in our group is Sameba. They are unranked, and are one of the newest football teams to have formed. Since they probably haven't played any matches yet, their players are probably inexperienced. The Blue Eagles can easily beat this team with their speedy offense, and their strong defense. Overall, the Blue Eagles are drawn in a group with 3 teams being a major threat, 1 team being a minor threat, and 1 team which we can win over easily.

James: What can we expect from our roster, and from our World Cup Qualifying Campaign in general, Thomas?

Thomas: Well, our roster has a lot of new faces. The CCFA have come up with a whole new team and a whole new coaching staff. There are many players here that play in the Catholican Catholica Football League. Now, let's look at our starting roster. We have our forwards, Wyatt Adams and Juan De La Cruz, who are known for playing very well. They are not that skillful, but their shots are pretty powerful. We have the midfield consisting of Darren Harding, Luis Santos, Rodrigo Velasquez, and John Quincy. Luis Santos and Rodrigo Velasquez work very well together with each other. They have shown that when they both played these positions in the Catholican Catholica Football League with New Hope United. They are both known for having great vision, too, especially Luis Santos, who can dribble while looking to see who's open, which leads us to our left and right outside midfielders, Darren Harding and John Quincy. John Quincy, who is very speedy with the ball, is a threat because of his ability to handle the ball in the air and his crossing. Darren Harding on the other hand, can receive a pass, make an overlap play with Luis Santos, cut in, and have a shot on goal. We have seen that many times when he played with Freetown United. Now, on to the defense. Playing the left and right back positions, we have James Harrison and Edison Rodriguez. Although they are not that strong, they are speedy and can catch up to any player at any moment. They are also known for perseverance. They don't give up on the ball, they stay with the man they're marking, and they try and steal the ball away. Playing the center back positions, we have David Vera and Harris Thompson. These guys are the last men that could either save us or doom us. Both of them have very good strength and marksmanship. They can quickly steal the ball away from the opposing players, and can easily set up a counter-attack which could lead to a goal. Our goalkeeper, Morgan Adams, is a very good goalkeeper. He can save very powerful shots, and can punt really far, up to 2/3 of the field. He can easily see who's open and who's not. In terms of our skill, he is a very good goalkeeper. This roster is ready, and can easily prove to the teams in our group that we have improved, and that we will keep improving and making our team stronger, so that one day, we can reach the Promised Land, and can give our nation, the coveted World Cup Trophy. We are set for a very tough qualifying campaign ahead of us, but we can do what we have to do to succeed in winning against the teams that think that they can beat us.

James: Now, tomorrow, we have a game tomorrow against Sameba. What do you predict will be the result for that game, Thomas?

Thomas: I predict that it will be a 5-0 thrashing against Sameba, seeing that our team is more advanced and more experienced.

James: Now, that's all the time we have for today. As always, I am your football analyst James Kelly...

Thomas: ..and I am your Sports Recap co-host and football analyst Thomas Gillingham....

James: ...reporting live here in CCSN Studios in New Hope, Catholican Catholica as part of CCSN's coverage of World Cup 66. So long and goodbye.

*End of program*

by **Chiata** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 2:06 pm

Roster Continued Part II

(Team: Goals, Assists, Goals Allowed)

Subs:

Goal Keeper Fill Stewert No. 35
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Many people believe Fill Stewert should be the starting Goal Keeper. Last year, Starting Goal Keeper Ron Gross allowed 30 goals.

Goal Keeper Julius Netherhill No. 37
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Julius Netherhill did not get to play last season.

Defender Frank Zimm No. 46
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Frank Zimm replaced George Chriss when he was injured. As a result, Zimm got some valuable play time.

Defender Lee Robertson No. 40
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Lee Robertson didn't get a lick of play time last season. He is behind Frank Zimm on the roster.

Defender Noel Stevenson No. 57
Season 1
Pumas: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Noel Stevenson started with the Chiata Pumas, Chiata's secondary team. He showed great talent and was hired by the Suns.

Defender Buck Miles No. 54
Season 1
Pumas: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Like Noel Stevenson, Buck Miles did his first season with the Chiata Pumas. He was good enough to be noticed by a talent scout and is now playing for the Suns.

Mid Fielder Logan Britt No. 33
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Descriptions: Logan Britt did not get to play last year. Although he is a good mentor to rookie Roger McGeehe.

Mid Fielder Ethan McGreen No. 20
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Ethan McGreen did not play at all last season. He is competing just to stay on the roster.

Mid Fielder Roger McGeehe No. 52
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Roger McGeehe did not play last season. This is because he is a rookie.

Forward Tony Stewart No. 49
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Tony Stewart has little chance of playing this year because he is behind Swade and Ringer-Toso. To top it off, he is also a rookie.

Forward Rick Vickerson No. 10
Season 1
Suns: 0, 0, 0
Season 2
Suns: NA, NA, NA
Description: Rick Vickerson did not play last season. He has an even lesser chance of playing than Roger McGeehe.

*All season 2 stats are marked NA because it has not been completed.

by **Wight** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 2:55 pm

OUT OF CHARACTER
Invocation

Well, what goes around, goes around, as they say in Wight. And sure enough, it was around again.

I’m glad to be home, says Búa, I’ve missed you crazy kids.

A great cheer went up in the stony hall, cups of Wightbeer were raised and emptied, songs broke out and The Clone of Brian Blessed laughed like thunder on the heath. At long last, in the granite fortress under suicide grey skies, in the court of Wight Spit, Búa King of Uncertain Dimensions was back at his throne and speaking in that way he does, without speech marks, and in the wrong tense.

“And we have missed you,” replied Hassan i Sabbah the Master Assassin, First Lieutenant of Búa and halal butcher, “my King and friend, welcome home!” Hassan smiled his white and dangerous smile at the Welder of Realities.

After making a small and inhospitable volcanic island in Atlantian Oceania of the Enness dimensional plane twelve years ago¹, for reasons yet to be satisfactorily explained, he promptly disappeared on an adventure. The sentient bubble universe who materialises as the mischievous and wholly disorganised avatar Búa had then not even sent a postcard home to the denizens of Wight. The poor Wightlings who not so much worshipped him – or it – as relied upon him for their nightly entertainment, lacking anything better to do with their evenings, had no choice but to go out and steal a World Cup from the Polar Islandstates, for fun.

Let them get Lillehammer & Skye detectivating on that one, exclaims Búa, but omitting the exclamation mark on purpose, and inventing a nice sounding word in the process. You can have too many of them, he says, referring to the exclamation mark.

Hassan i Sabbah laughed his joyous laugh, the one he usually employs just before skewering someone, and slapped his thigh. “Yes indeed,” he said, as many courtiers frowned in an attempt to work out what Búa had actually said, and what he meant by it, “indeed we have missed you, Oblique One.”

In The Holy Asylum² unnumbered monks shook their heads judgmentally at the gramatically [sic] erratic phraseology of the King of Uncertain Dimensions. Some things never change, they are thinking (here is another place where time and tense shift like quicksands). But while some things certainly hadn’t changed, Búa most definitely had. Gone was his handsome pirate look with the tattooed face, the jewelry, the bald head and bronzed chest and baubles and bangles and attendant army of little adoring golden tamarins (with those teeth, like needles, and their atrocious attitudes). Now before them was, though the whole court was reluctant to admit it, a slob. A yellow-skinned, fat-bellied, three-haired comb-over oaf. Búa had returned as a materialisation of Homer Simpson. It was most out of character.

It’s an Asylum thing, says Búa, by way of explanation. Now what’s all this about winning the World Cup?

They presented their Imaginator-in-Chief with the World Cup trophy, which of course has never been illustrated in all the long years of these forums, and therefore has an elusive form, so that if you look at it straight on, you can hardly see it³. Búa held it up, and looked away slightly. Joy washed over him.

Woohoo!!! Says Búa, using up all his exclamation mark allowance in one go. Someone get Doctor Sunshine on the phone, I need to brag⁴. Will the Cup show up on FaceTime, do we think?

There was much jollity and facetiousness in the court at granite Wight Spit then, way out in the Uncertain Dimensions where Búa keeps his home, at the expense of Doctor Sunshine and of the monks of The Asylum, with a few jokes about elves thrown in for good measure. Finally that oafish avatar of a sentient bubble universe called order on the frivolity. After all, he said, the writer of this story is beginning to fall asleep at his desk, and his eyes are unfocused, and he needs to go to bed, since he has work in the morning. Plus someone else wants to use the computer to post roster.

The people of the court looked at each other baffled – there were always strange things to wonder about in grey Wight , but Búa was not making any sense. The Fourth Incarnation of Tommy Cooper prodded the airspace in front of him, suspicious that there was some invisible wall that Búa was pushing up against. And later, that great Tamarindian, Masvidal, would read about this Invocation, and things would fall into place for him, and end badly. But that is a story for another matchday.

Now then, says Búa, where is my –

“Here!” called out Michele de Nostrodame, the court Geometer and good at predicting things. He knew what was coming next, and wasn’t inclined to wait politely for it to be vocalised. “You wish to know our fate in this coming World Cup, and do that thing that nations do, when they predict things.”

Hmm, mutters the King of Uncertain Dimensions, am I that predictable?

“Inevitably,” said Logikal Mick, as we call Nostrodamus here in Old Wight, “inevitable as jokes about the host nation” – he was of course referring to the land of the Nevs & Syndies.

Just you cut to the mustard, says Búa, and then: mmmmm must-ard…

“Yes, well, harrumph, so, I did the mathematics, applied the physics, threw in some mysticism and drew out a random drawing. And herein lies our fate…”

He unrolled the scroll and revealed it to the court with a flourish

There was a polite round of applause. ‘Every time’ thought Logikal Mick, ‘they fall well under my whelm. I don’t know why I bother.’

Hassan asked the question nobody wanted to ask.

“No,” replied the irritated court Geometer “I did not grab an image of an assembly diagram off the internet. How very dare you?”

by **Northern Sunrise Islands** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 4:48 pm

DE PLACA
Insert Destruicity Here

SUPER SMASH BROTHERS CLASH
Vaporeons dominate, 5-2

After playing outside, the Sunrisian squad travelled to Northern Sunrise Islands for their second pre-qualifiers match. This time, facing an easier challenge, as the team faced the Serbian Empire for another of those themed friendlies that the Sunrise tends to have. The Greil Mercenaries, a lesser side struggled against the over-dominative force that the Northern Sunrise Islands team used.

In the first half, the supporters could already see at the DuBeaux Stadium, located at Arrendine, Northern Sunrise Islands, that there was no real battle for the start. At the mark of the eleventh minute, Quinn lifted the ball over Baltor Maravich's head. She took a small minute to wait for her marker to return, only to lift the ball over him again. As the ball finally fell down, she would hit the ball on the back of the net. Two minutes after the ball returned to the middle of the field, Patiy would score from outside of the box.

In the thirtieth minute, Velimir Tvrtkovic would score after a mistake of Trent Millard, but that wouldn't stop the Sunrisians from scoring. Laval would score after a counter-attack conversion well done by the Sunrisian side. On the second half, Velimir Tvrtkovic would score again, but almost five minutes later, the Sunrisians would score back, with Duda, after dribbling the ball over Dario Vukovic.

The last tent, however, would come from the talented feet of Quinn, as she once again shown her skill. She would speed through the middle of the defensive sector of their opponents, lifting the ball and turning backways, to shoot it with the back of her left foot. The ball reached the net with huge strength after the powerful shot, and finally finished the score.

NORTHERN SUNRISE ISLANDS - 5
Millard; Souza, P. Mangalonga, Hanekawa, de Sousa; Laval(36'), Crawford, Smith (11', 83'), Duda (59'); Patiy (13'), Montblanc

THE SERBIAN EMPIRE - 2
Mirkovic; Maravich, Aronic, Vukovic, I. Petrovic; Krunovic, Dusanovic, Grugric; Tvrtkovic (30', 55'), Cizek, Pavlovic

CARVALHO UP FOR THE QUALIFIERS
Forward Mateus Carvalho has left the Medical Center of Lynder last night. Following the match against Apox, the Sunrisian player made a separate travel to Lynder, for a more qualified examination of his injury from the Vermouth Trophy match in which the Sunrisian squad won 2-1.
However, it seems that the injury wasn't a huge deal and Carvalho reported to the NSIFC as "fit" for the qualifiers. He will be available for the match against Iturributa for the first matchday of the Qualifiers.

LINE-UP FOR THE MATCH AGAINST ITURRIBUTA
Sioux; Redwing, Hikari, Hanekawa, Hawk; McCloud, Laval, Nagatomo, Smith; Travis, Patiy

OTHER NEWS
> Pezcemá Golden Magikarps: Kylx returns to be a human, plans to marry a Waillord
> Madureira Parrots: Start a season with -15 points is a disgrace, says owner
> Vulpine Sportif and the SBL come to an agreement of sponsorship for five seasons
> Boston United confirm Darwin Ceren for the 2022 season of the Sunrise League
> Sunrise Gridiron League could be seeing ressurection
> nsi.baseball: Non-international season of the league to start next week

by **Polkopia** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 5:00 pm

"... And that'd how we'd better play in this tournament. Nobody in our seed really poses any real major threat to us, except maybe Jerusalem, but I think we have a good shot at this. Any questions?" Coach Stenin had called together the team to discuss the formation that the Polkopian team was to play in the World Cup. Nothing much had really chanced, except for some of the players' roles in the game, but nothing serious.

"Oh, and Immanuil, can I talk to you for a minute? The rest of you can go." The rest of the team had grabbed their things and made their way off of the field, and Immanuil Serevo stayed behind, only half-paying attention to what Coach Stenin had to say. He already knew what was coming; he heard this speech before every major tournament.

"Serevo." He began. "This is the first time Polkopia has ever qualified. Do you know what this means?"

"Yes." Serevo responded. "I get it. It's nice and all, but when we lose-"

"No, then you obviously don't get it. We didn't come here to lose. We didn't come here to expect the worst result. We didn't come here to pussyfoot around the other teams like a bunch of pansies."

"Listen, coach. I put forth enough effort for the team. I do what I can to help Polkopia and the team. I train just as hard as everyone, I condition just as much as everyone, and I play just as hard as everyone. I think I speak for everyone when I say that we're tired of losing. We need something new."

Coach Stenin chuckled a bit and stepped closer to Serevo. "Really? You're going to tell me how to coach MY team? I coached the Valinkova Rangers from 15th in the league to 2nd. All that was in 3 years. I coached Peeto United for two years and won the League Title both years. I had countries begging on their knees for me to coach for them, but I came here. Why? Because I loved the team and I loved the spirit you guys put on the pitch. Now, I see none of that. I see more passion for football in the reserves in one day than I've seen from you in two tournaments. Now, if you're going to bullshit this tournament like you did the Baptism of Fire, so help me God, you won't see your sorry ass ever being called up for the national team again."

Immanuil Serevo took a step backward, bewildered that his own coach had talked to him in such a manner. He was right though. The reserves try so hard to be a part of the team and to be on the starting lineup. They're out there on their off-days practicing technical skills and basic fundamentals together for 3 hours at a time while he was at home, watching a game or two. He hadn't realized how far his attitude fallen. Years and years ago, when he first picked up the sport, he vowed that he would never turn out like Viktor Smalnikov, a Polkopian footballer, notorious for being extremely arrogant. Now, he was becoming the exact thing that he despised. He wouldn't let this happen. He was going to show his coach and his team that he was done with his usual arrogance. He was going to go out there and play the sport he loved as a kid. he was going to play football.

by **San Jose Guayabal** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 7:45 pm

Childhood Dreams
Near or far

Raul returned home after finishing the art class, where he had to make a comic about the subject he wanted.

After eating and resting for a moment, Raul did not imagine that I could draw, looked and thought for a moment I could do, but found nothing to distract decided to watch TV to see if there was something very interesting that inspire him.

But after several hours after sunset (it was the night) saw something that she likes and motivates the heart not only his, but that motivates the heart of nearly one billion Guayabalenses, joining in a mission, a sense an inexplicable passion (the official jersey of SJG NT and a poster of their favorite players of the SJG NT) that crazy unexplained and consistent we can not control the Guayabalenses, was his inspiration to do the comic for the art class apart that he remembered something very important that motivated him even more.

The inspiration of Raul

What motivated him more?, The simple fact that tomorrow will be the first game of SJG in the WC Qualifiers and the first game of SJG would in House, that motivated him to create a comic where he imagined he was a player of SJG, who scored valuable and important goals that clinched the classification of SJG to the WC, then scored more goals and confirmed their progress to the final of the WC.

SJG fans celebrating the Qualifying to the WC Final

As he wrote in his comic and what he imagined, SJG joined entirely in one uncontrollable passion and great joy, attended by thousands of spectators from SJG, to the stadium which will host the final, then he drew the score was 2-2 at the last minute of the game and it was fouled in the area, which the referee awarded a penalty.

Raul getting ready to kick

Raul ventured into the area and caught the ball with incredible serenity, placed on the penalty spot, before dedicated a prayer to God and kissed the National Flag of SJG, the referee whistle and Raul grabbed momentum to execute the penalty, and with a superb penalty executed with the Panenka Style, Raul scored the 3-2 in favor of SJG, then the ref to blow the final game ... SJG won the championship of the WC, Raul knelt and prayed to God, giving thanks for the victory achieved and the story he wrote, then colored his comic and adorned with glitter and he kept it to bring it to your teacher.

Raul kicks the penalty

A new day dawned, Raul was prepared to go to school and show their comic of the SJG NT, Raul waited anxiously when arts class ... The moment he waited, arrived, the teacher asked an exhibition of comics of students, but asked Raul to present his comic.

The cup

Raul stood up and said: "I have a great story to tell, seems so close as far, but have faith in God that this day will come, the SJG NT winning the WC, something we want to happen, and that is not only fruit of my imagination ... "

The comic

Then, the teacher stopped the class and said: "Raul, your story is so beautiful it should not be only heard or exposed, to be admired and contemplated so.

-All, please give me an S

-S

-Give me a J:

-J

-Give me a G

-G

What did you say?

- (Students shout): SJG!, SJG!, SJG, SJG!

And that's how football and the SJG NT generate a passion, a feeling that can not stop, a fervor, a power unit, comfort and call where we are all one with the voice and strength of a billion people that supports the screaming in unison.

SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG! SJG!.

Let's go SJG!

by **Super-Llamaland** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 7:53 pm

Group 29
Gyatso-kai (19)
Super-Llamaland (90)
Free Republics (114)
Kalusia (122)
Riojasia (255)
The Evangelical Islands of Altai (UR)

In a Cup where winning the group was the goal, beating out Gyatso-Kai and warding off hungry upstarts like Free Republics and Kalusia, not to mention Unranked Karma, mused Samuel Dijon.

Unranked Karma was simple: If you won a ton of games while unranked, you lost a ton of games to unranked people later. Unranked and without RP'ing doubly so.

The Tigers had had a good campaign in WC63, their first. But Unranked Karma was biting back now. Hopefully it would not strike.

WC66 was a turning point. Sam Dijon's famously straight Committee of National Soccer Progress had appointed a sadistic manager. Arismendy Luteno, who had already completely overhauled the coaching staff, bar Lee Hayes, so less voices would speak up against him.

Just when things were picking up, Bryan Ferguson leaves.
Just when things were picking up, Luteno decides to overhaul everything.
And a year or three earlier was the famous Marshes Scandal of the World Baseball Classic. Marshes, the Evil Llamanean Terrorist who had put a star player in the hospital!

But WC66 would be different. Luteno had ramped up security.

The doorbell rang to his hotel suite. "Come in," Dijon called.

A visibly shaken Trevor Duncan walked in. Trevor was now 29, the centerpiece of the national squad since WC63, when he was a prodigy. Now, he was staring at WC67 as his last. Five world cups wasn't too shabby, but Duncan hungered for a taste of post-quals, the "real" World Cup.

But Duncan was obviously worried.

"Hello, Trevor."
"Hello...Mr. Dijon." Trevor must have run here. He was breathing heavily.
"Yes?"
"Luteno is going to bomb your hotel room...you gotta get out."
Dijon was in shock.
"Get out. GET OUT!"
Dijon got up and Duncan escorted him to the door.
BAM!
The window to the suite shattered in a blizzard of shards.
BLAM!
The door was kicked open. Sam Dijon screamed, and Trevor pulled him down. It was Bryce Brink, the new coach.

Bryce Brink, holding a gun. And trailing him was Michael Luteno, Bryan Harp, and the very manager himself. Arismendy Luteno.

"Mr. Duncan."
"Yes?" Trevor remained calm externally, somehow.
"Why do you find yourself in Samuel Dijon's room?"
Mr. Dijon was trying to crawl away.
BLAM!
Bryce Brink's shot missed Dijon by a foot.
"I wanted to talk strategy with him. We were going to send Bryan Ferguson a postcard."
"...Ah. Well, we'd better be going. That window will be one big hotel bill. Rest up for the game."
Luteno left. Fifteen minutes later, a stunned Duncan did the same. Dijon stared at the wall and began to sweep up the glass shards.

by **Vaugania** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 8:10 pm

VauganiaSportsToday
Busy Month for National Football Team

The last few weeks have proved hectic for Kurt Hlasek and his Golden Eagles. After debuting in the 53rd edition of the WCC's competition for newcomers, the Baptism of Fire, the team has gone on to play 4 friendly matches. This is in addition to the 6 played during the BoF. In these 10 matches, the first 6 of which earned immortalization as a BoF quarterfinalist, the Golden Eagles have won 5, drawn 3, and only lost 2. The team will be playing 10 more matches in the World Cu's qualifying stages at the very least before the players can return to their clubs. Also of note is a big time move by Vauganian RB, Patrick Kerr.

The first of 4 friendlies was against the Crystal Empire and this one was played away from home. The match took place in front of 69,740 fans at Imperial Arena in Crystopolis. The Crystal Empire got things going early and put a goal by Stefan Blanc in the 21st minute. Amber Waves made a great pass to set up Esmerelda for the goal. The Crystal Ponies didn't slow down and a mere 8 minutes later, Crystal Arrow tacked up another goal on a nice cross from Sapphire Rose. The Golden eagles wouldn't go down without a fight however. As the first half came to a close, the Vauganians got received an opportunity on a corner from the left side. Dennis Schmidt launched it across the box, but Partick Kerr came flying in from the outfield and intercepted the cross with his head and it found the upper corner of the goal. The game remained stagnant for a while, but in the 73rd minute, Berry Splash, coming off of the bench, gave the Crystal Empire an insurance goal and the game ended there. This was the first time the Crystal Empire won a match in which they conceded a goal and it was the only one of their 3 friendlies where they conceded a goal.

The second friendly on the schedule came against Alitaba at Sporting Park in front of 89,000 people in downtown Yzerberg. At this point, Kurt Hlasek started rotating in some of the subs and reserves to keep everyone's feet warm on the roster. For this game, Lorne Gardiner was staring in goal, Farnerud went off of the team sheet and Sykora was brought in to start and PK Castel to be subbed in. Frankie Malloy and Peder Helland were also replaced by Oveson and Erstweiler respectively. Dmitri Blotski also played in place of Dennis Schmidt and took over corenr kick duties. Sykora proved himself to be productive as he opened up the scoring 14 minutes into the match. The Alitabans were quick to respond and fired back with another goal in the 18th minute. Lars Baltzersen zoned in on the net in the 37th minute and poked the football past the Alitaban goalie. Blotski found himself with the ball at the top of the box in the 43rd minute and he fired a blazing shot into the back of the net and made the score 3-1. From then on, the Golden Eagles switched to a more defensive mindset and kept the score the same and picked up a W.

The Golden Eagles next found themselves in the German American States playing at Norbergen Arena in Kaltstadt. For this particular matchup, all of the midfielders were changed with Battle, Kraft, Kovalchuk, and Lunde replacing, Althusser, who recently recovered from injury, Vorotaev, Karlan, and Schmidt respectively. PK Castel also filled in for Lars Blatzersen, a sub for this match, and Joshua Farnerud found himself back in the Starting XI. Svenoy stared in goal instead of Blanc or Gardiner. The final sub was Gregor Blake filling in for Patrick Kerr at right back. Joshua Farnerud broke the ice in the 38th minute with a goal by way of volleying a looooong cross by Petr Kovalchuk. The half ended without further commotion. GAS refused to stay down and scored their first goal in the 75th minute and struck back with another to take the lead in the 78th. Down 2-1, Miloslav Vorotaev was subbed in to take a free kick 24 yds from the goal in the 87th minute. Rather than play it in to the box, he went for the home run and launched the ball to the bottom corner of the goal frame. It hit the post after passing the diving goalie, but the spin on the ball guided it into the net for the tying tally. The game wrapped up a few minutes later at 2-2.

The final game of the 4 game tour was also on the road against San Jose Guayabal. Kurt Hlasek returned to his normal eleven for this final warm-up before the World Cup Qualifiers began. Morten Karlan found the back of the net early and got Vaugania out to a 1-0 lead. the next goal came from Joshua Farnerud with Karlan on the assist in the 44th minute. The half came to a close at 2-0. The score remained unchanged for a while into the second half, but Farnerud made space and finessed his way to a second goal, this time in the 81st minute. Moments later, Christoph Sykora who had earlier been subbed in for Lars Baltzersen, was victim to a slide tackle from behind that earned SJG a yellow card and awarded a free kick to the Golden Eagles. Miloslav Vorotaev put the ball into the box amongst the throngs of footballers and Joshua Farnerud got to the ball before anyone else and put in his 3rd goal for a hat-trick. The game ended 4-0 and Vaugania's Pre-Qual campaign ended 2-1-1.

Some of the biggest news to come out of the last few weeks is Patrick Kerr and his new club. Kerr's career has been under scrutiny following a drunken car accident that injured another driver, got him an 18 month prison sentence, a 6 month ban from football from, and led to him being cut the roster of SC Yzerberg. Following his prison sentence and ban, he played two years for Prairie Knights, followed by 4 for Mt. Dostoyevsky Eminence, and the last 4 with Abel FC. The 32 year old Kerr was elected to be part of the Baptism of Fire XI and was offered contracts for Astograth's South Factory and United Gordonopia's Basin Plain. Eventually he decided that he would leave Vaugania to escape all of the judgment and play for Basin Plain, ranked 18th in the world according to the UICA rankings.

by **Saugeais** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:05 pm

Throw Your Predictions Out The Window
Guest Writer: Brandon McPharson, Football Weekly Magazine

No, seriously. I mean get up out of your chair right now, take whatever sheet of paper you scrawled your predictions on, open your nearest window, and chuck said paper out of said window. That's exactly what I did, because that is what Group 7 feels like to me, and I'm a half decent journalist whose been following the sport for over 10 years. With the likes of Saintland, Neo Lemmitania, and hell even Savski Venac looking to make waves on the international scene, if I can't think of a proper outcome, more than likely the commoner viewer wouldn't be able to either.

The World Cup qualifiers this time around have been made drastically shorter than in past years, as 30 groups holding 6 teams each will play in just 10 matches to determine who will advance. Those of you who aren't good at math need only look at the amount of groups to see that 30 plus the two hosts will give you your Finals lineup. Therefore, only the group winners will be accepted to play in the Finals this time. No home-and-home playoffs, no "zonal grouping" nonsense, just a straightforward answer to a question that's long been plagued with uncertainty. But even more so adding to that uncertainty is the fact that the squad now lacks a role model to look up to. Casimir Archambault was, by far, the glue that held the team together. His demeanor and personality on and off the pitch were the stuff that you'd go home and preach your kids about. Without Casimir, you now have at least 5 other players that could take over that role as clubhouse mentor, which could lead to unwanted skirmishes within the group; being this close to World Cup qualifiers, the team needs to be on the same page if they have any hopes of qualifying. Now I know the Knights are top ranked in their group, but as what has been seen many times before, being the top seed doesn't always mean you will qualify. One need not look any further than Saugeais back in the 61st qualifying campaign: 10th ranked team, but was defeated twice by Kiryu-shi and ultimately ended up in third place, missing the playoff zone by several points.

Getting to the group itself, former world champions (now reformed) Neo Lemmitania have brought themselves back into the spotlight, after a mid group finish in the 65th World Cup. A second round showing in the following Cup of Harmony has seen the Lemmings continue to make solid progress. Of course, they'll be looking to rocket into the Finals using that progress, and could sneak several surprises on Saugeais. Saintland, in comparison, should be taken seriously no matter the circumstances. The Sanctii have demonstrated tenacity in the face of adversity several times in the past, and their near qualification last World Cup is proof of that. Being more in a position to overtake the Knights than anyone else, Saugeais manager Powell Pieran should be employing as many counterattacking strategies as he can think of to overcome the Sanctii attack while exploiting their weakness at the back.

Add Savski Venac to the mix as a team who can play spoiler to any of the three mentioned above, and you have a group that could change as quickly as the weather in Montbenoit. It'll come down to whoever loses the least amount of points among the top three contenders, but where, when, and to whom that'll happen to is anyone's guess at this point.

by **Crystal Ponies** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 9:44 pm

The Crystal Courier
The Official Supporters' Newsletter of the Crystal Knights

BAPTISM OF FIRE, PART II: CRYSTAL EMPIRE @ POLAR ISLANDSTATES

CRYSTOPOLIS - Don't you just love it how things work out like this?

The Crystal Knights went into the "Baptism of Fire" not having won a single match. Since then, the team has gone an impressive 9-1-2, including three pre-qualifying friendlies arranged to test them against higher-caliber opponents in which the Crystal Empire went unbeaten. But now, the Crystal Ponies must prepare for a true "Baptism of Fire".

Let the records show that the Crystal Empire's first World Cup qualifying match will not be an easy one. Heck, it's literally the most challenging matchup possible. The Crystal Knights will open their (probably brief) campaign against none other than top-ranked Polar Islandstates, on the road no less. Yeah, let that sink in.

Even here in Crystopolis, nobody expects the Crystal Empire to win, draw, or lose by less than three goals. Sure both teams would be considered more defensive, but still...top-ranked. The team remains optimistic though, and captain Sapphire Rose responded to the press with the following statement: "To be honest, I'm more than content with the draw. Sure, we'll be facing the best-ranked team in the world in front of their own fans, but I'd rather get our greatest challenge out of the way quickly."

Be careful what you ask for, Sapphire Rose. The Equestrian States may have only beaten us 6-0 on the road, but remember that the Polarians beat them 2-0 in Wight a couple years back. The Terns are familiar with the pony way of play, and have proven to be capable of beating it in the past.

Personally, I can't see this ending well. My prediction? A merciful Polar Islandstates 5-0 Crystal Empire.

by **Vilita** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 10:20 pm

Back Where They Belong!

Vilita & Turori Remind Audioslavia What it's like to Lose a Final

The 41st AOCAF Final :: Anyone who thought the atmosphere was electric at the Bird Cage in Magnaeus during the AOCAF Semi-Final would likely have been electrocuted by the atmosphere at The Flynn Arena as Audioslavia looked to re-claim their crown as Atlantian Oceania champions with the upstart Vilita & Turori Eel-Cat things standing in their way. The sporting animosity between the two nations ran deep, very deep. However, those tensions had cooled in recent seasons. After 40+ runnings of the World Cup, Audioslavia finally broke the curse and made up for the defeat that Vilita had handed to them in the World Cup 20 Final by winning the World Cup for the first time ever, and doing so on Turorian soil. It was the end of a tumultuous time for Audioslav sport, and all the knots were tied when the trophy was lifted on the small island of Turori, midway between Vilita and the former lands of Druida, where that fateful World Cup 20 final had played out.

Now, however, the two had the opportunity to renew that rivalry. For Vilita & Turori, it was the first appearance for either association in the final of a major competition since the 19th AOCAF Final in Bettia. For many of the Vilita & Turori youngsters, this was their first major international tournament, and now they would be stepping on the pitch looking to taste championship glory on the first attempt.

Goalkeeper Nycflala Kater once again led Vilita & Turori out onto the pitch taking charge of both the duties between the sticks, and setting the team sheet at the start of the match. The Eel-Cat Things lined up in a traditionally Vilitan 3-1-4-2 formation with Arcticala Inlet's Vilitan starlet Nili Ylimaiina partnering with Strike FC starlet Enluta Makakio in attack.

Makakio proved his worth as the first half neared its end, urging his teammates away to ensure he was the one that would take the well-positioned free-kick 37 minutes into the match. After all, it was Makakio that earned the kick in the first place, and he intended to finish it.. The defensive wall that Audioslavia had created simply stood there, staring at the goal and at the ball that nested comfortably in the bottom corner of it. Audioslavian goalie Kajaxo Imaslavii, Makakio's teammate at Strike FC, picked himself up, dusted himself down, and booted the ball out. The contrasting emotions of both sets of players was echoed in the behavior of both sets of commentators. In Audioslavia's booth, the commentator was trying to remain neutral, commenting on how the free-kick was 'beautifully struck', albiet in a somewhat melancholy way. Vilita's commentary booth is a riot of colours and excited voices. "A superb free-kick... and the Eel-Cat Things.... are a goal up in the AOCAF final! Makakio stepped up and curled it beautifully round the wall... Imaslavii was well beaten, its in off the bar! Vilita & Turori are one step closer to the championship!"

The Bulls kicked off again, but couldn't muster up enough energy to get any decent attacks before the half-time break.

At half time, Audioslavia manager Alvaro Mozo tried to get his team back into the match in an exchange that was replayed after the match. "Ok guys" he said, looking around at the Bulls team, all of which look tired. "This is it. This is where all the practice we've been doing has to pay off. We're a goal down, that's it, its not the end of the world. We outplayed them for the first twenty minutes and then we let them get back in with a few chances, we've got the midfield, lets use it. Instead of just knocking it up to Karsten and making him do all the work, lets play it about, make the bastards run. You notice how, when you two get the ball in midfield, Txordin? You notice how they're onto you like a shot? That is NOT a cue to try and take them on, thats a cue to pass it around them. They're man-marking you, so don't start fannying about when you have the ball! Knock it around, get into space, THEN fanny around, as long as it comes to something? You understand?"

And so, just like the opening minutes of the first half, the Bulls came out firing on all cylinders for the second. Vucidini Zekani and Txordin Zerubeltzak started knocking the ball out and opening up the Vilita & Turori midfield, and all of a sudden the Bulls were getting chances again. In the 51st minute, a through ball from Zekani found Eiger who turned his man beautifully and with a sweet, low drive, smacked the ball past Kater. The entire region stood up to get a better look at the television, and then slumped down to eats more crisps as the shot nicked the outside of the post and went out of play. In the 55th minute, the Bulls had a corner and Eiger, extending his body upward like a slimey Eel, nodded the ball down for the Zerubeltzak. Zerubeltzak hit the wide-open shot about as well as you'd expect from a six-foot centre-half and the posterior rising exercises around the region continued. However, this time Nycflala Kater was equal to the task, getting his hands in the way and palming the ball over the bar. Typically, however, the Bulls would waste the ensuing corner, and it looked as if the match was destined to be a repeat of the 1-0 result that Audioslavia suffered against Vilita in the World Cup 20 final. The clean-up bill at Audioslavian pubs was going up with every squandered opportunity, fans smashing glasses and bottles on the floor as Audioslavia came close time and time again.

After 75 minutes, the substitute Jean-Luc Cézanne launched the ball into the box, but his attempt missed its target, and was intercepted by Endur Rotropii. Rotropii's simple hoofed-clearene attempted quickly turned out to be a perfect fifty-yard pass to Lopaki Kilpter on the left wing. Lopaki sprinted upfield, cutting in towards the goal, and looked to beat the back-tracking Jean-Luc Cézanne and John Ryan to get a clear shot at Imaslavii's goal. Cézanne went for the intercept but slipped and fells on his arse. Lopaki juggled past him and played the ball square to the centre-forward Nili Ylimaiina. With one touch, Ylimaiina carried the ball in front of him and set himself up for a shot. With Imaslavii off his line and in no-mans land he contemplated a lob, but instead thinks 'fuck it' and decided to bury the ball in the corner. Taking a determinent swing, Ylimaiina moved to bring his foot to the ball, but, before his foot can follow through and sweep the ball in for 2-0 his leg is kicked away by a desperate Anders Euler. Ylimaiina tumbled to the ground and the ball bobbled toward Imaslavii who doesn't even bother picking it up. The referee is already pointing to the spot, whilst reaching for a card. Its red, Euler was sent off for a professional foul and it looked like the Eel-Cat things were about to ice the Audioslavian Cake.

The players crowded around the area. With a quarter of an hour to go, a two-nil scoreline would definitely put the Eel-Cat things in the drivers seat. Surprisingly, it was the youngster Kigaoua Oalalka who stepped up. The winger had apparently won the 'penalty kick' contest at the training ground the day before, for the right to be the penalty taker for the match. The referee blew the whistle, and Oalalka turned around with eyes bursting out of the sockets, visions of AOCAF glory ahead of him. With a blistering crack he let rip and sent the ball crashing towards the goal. Its another moment for the region's heart to skip a beat, and for a split-second the guy-in-charge-of-the-scoreboard goes to change the scoreline to '2-0'. However, Strike FC's Kajaxo Imaslavii had a different idea, and with a gallant leap he spread himself across to the left hand side of the goal and knocked the ball away for a corner. Cézanne and Zerubeltzak jumped on the netminder in congratulations, whilst Oalalka looked at his feet for a second before getting ready for the corner. Oalalka whipped it in. Zerubeltzak rose for it, but couldn't out-jump Endur Rotropii who beat him to it and diverted the ball towards goal with his forehead. Imaslavii was left rooted to the spot, forced to watch the ball dip over him, off the bar and into the air. The goalie, now back-peddalling, was off balance and it was anyone's ball. Bulls defender Larenna narrowly beat Makakio to the ball and cleared to safety, denying the Eel-Cat things the critical 2-0 goal.

With ten minutes to play, The Eel-Cat Things had taken control over the 10-man bulls. Vilita & Turori super-star Kristofer Kilpter was introduced to the match and immediately made an impact, outpacing the Bulls midfield whilst his namesake Lopaki Kilpter provided a plethora of crosses for the Eel-Cat Things to attack. Ylimaiina had a half-chance from a deflection, and a Kristofer Kilpter header was cleared off the line. The Bulls had enough energy to mount one more attack, however, and it was Cézanne who dispossessed Banda on the edge of the box with a brilliant sliding tackle and knocked the ball along to Zonnestraal Jansen. Jansen's electric pace had not waned over the ninety minutes and he set off, skinning Lopaki Kilpter and getting the ball up down the right hand side. A square ball sent Eiger through, and it was three on three at the Vilita & Turori end with every player on both teams sprinting up behind them. Even Audioslavia's goalie, Kajaxo Imaslavii, was making his way up the pitch. Eiger played a one-two with Zerubeltzak and, with the return pass, nut-megged Tlikao Muratai to let in Jansen again on the right hand side. Jansen's cross was fast and perfectly placed, coming to Eiger like a dart. Eiger let the ball run through his legs, looking a poor decision but Inaosnaa Klanoa couldn't clear the danger, only deflecting the ball to Vucidini Zekani.

Zekani made no mistake from the gifted opportunity, converting calmly from a shallow angle, leveling the scores just moments before the final whistle was to come. If Audioslavian pubs had been indebted by glass-smashing earlier after missed opportunities, they were about to get some of it back, as patrons splashed their beverages up in the air in delight, and would have a further 30 minutes to indulge as the 41st AOCAF final was going to extra time.

With only 10 players on the pitch, however, Audioslavia were at a disadvantage from the start and it showed. The Eel-Cat things kept the Bulls pegged back for most of the opening 15 minutes and broke through with 2 minutes to play in the first half of extra time, re-taking the lead.

It was a true Kilpter-Connection in the 103rd minute as Lopaki found Kristofer who rose - perhaps climbing but not called, over Ko Larrena to head past Kajaxo Imaslavii and put the Eel-Cat things back in front at the mid-point of Extra time.

The match was slower when play resumed, with Vilita & Turori content to hold on to possession and not give their rivals a chance to get back into the match. With only minutes to play in the extra session, the Bulls were pushing everyone forward, looking for one last effort to send the game into a penalty shootout.

A great individual effort from Zonnestraal Jansen would give the Bulls the chance, finding a wide open substitute Arturo Hudson-Blake in the penalty area. The youngest player on the Bulls roster, Hudson-Blake had the fate of the nation on his back as he looked to collect the ball with the goal wide open for his shooting pleasure - but the eyes of an entire region waiting on his kick. Hudson-Blake steadied himself, nine yards away from goal, parallel with the right-hand line of the six-yard box. The goalkeeper was covering the opposite post, scrambling to get accross. The three defenders had been torn apart and the midfielders weren't anywhere near the goal. The ball bounced towards him slowly, and all he had to do was direct it into the goal. The youngster set himself up for the easiest goal he'd score in his life, and with a swift movement of his left foot, moved to sweep the ball into the center of the goal to get the match into extra time.

And then the ball hit the post.

And went out of play.

And the referee signaled for the end of the match.

Hudson-Blake sunk to his hands and knees and smacked his fist against the floor, cursing in every Audioslavian word under the sun.

After two-cycles of unfathomable success for Audioslavia, balance and order had been restored in the world of sport.

The Vilita & Turori players piled on top of each other at the edge of the pitch near the Eel-Cat things supporters. The Vilita & Turori Eel Cat things were champions of Atlantian Oceania, and, once again, tamers of the Bulls.

	Audioslavia
:: Goalscorers :: :: 37' Enluta Makakio :: 103' Kristofer Kilpter	:: Goalscorers :: :: 90' Vucidini Zekani ::
:: Best Player: Enluta Makakio :: Worst Player: Kigaoua Oalalka :: Shots on Target: 6 :: Corner Kicks: 3	:: Best Player: Vucidini Zekani :: Worst Player: Anders Euler :: Shots on Target: 6 :: Corner Kicks: 7

Vilita & Turori Eel Cat Things ::
[GK] Nycflala Kater, [D.] Endur Rotropii, [D.] Tlikao Muratai, [D.] Inaosnaa Klanoa, [D.] Balariita Muzmaara, [ML] Lopaki Kilpter, [MC] Etamara Kulkkiia, [MC] Kiroki Mitaroka, [MR] Kigaoua Oalalka, [FC] Nili Ylimaiina, [FC] Enluta Makakio
BENCH::
[FC] Kristofer Kilpter, [FC] Inamari Altariiz, [M] Inlite Makakio, [M] Dalian Magagula, [U] Matlya Eelador, [D] Ricata Amakra, [GK] G.Q Disterfred II

Vilita Substitutions::
(68) - Tlikao Muratai >>> Matlya Eelador
(73) - Kiroki Mitaroka >>> Inamari Altariiz
(78) - Kigaoua Oalalka >>> Kristofer Kilpter

by **Felix** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 10:52 pm

World Cup Qualifications: The Events Leading Up To The Draw.

By: Steven Smith

The national returns from the Felix Multiverse Tour with a whole new group of players in the team. Some players were in the 52nd BoF team, others, are new to the national team and hope to make it to the final roster should Felix qualify to the finals event of the World Cup or at least participate in the regional event that will happen along the road sometime in the future. Despite the games not counting the mixed bag of results gave some doubts for the team faithful. And after a series of bad friendlies many Felixians are a little bit worried about the team as consistency issues seem to plague this team as they couldn't beat lower ranked rivals Sangti, losing 5-4, drawing against rookie nation to the World Cup event, Crystal Empire, 0-0 and finally drawing against the German American States 2-2. You would think that Felix would beat those team but as mentioned earlier, they had problems maintaining consistency. Here is a quick recap of the events leading to the World Cup, starting off with the Felix Multiverse Football Tour.

The Felixian tour started off in a above average way as the Felix A team faced off against the Apox team, the A team proved to cause trouble for the new head coach of the Apox team and Apox as a whole as the two teams drew, 0-0. Some highlights of the goalless match were the amazing performance Matías Ciriaco of Santa Maria City pulled off a clean sheet against the favoured Apox national team. Unfortunately for the Felixian side the scoreless tie showed that the Felixian team needed some work on offense as Yun Dong Lee was the only good man of the forwards side. Moving on to the next match, the Felix A team faced off against Sangti. Felix couldn't pull off the win against hated rivals as Felix lost the match 1-0. The whole team struggled to make any inroads against the Sangtian team as the only bright spot of the whole match was Chloe Álvarez's performance in the match. André Bonheur also seemed to impress the coaches as he made some accurate shots that were blocked by that pesky Sangtian goalkeeper.

Next up on the tour was Boring Paradise, the B team was up and "ready" to face them. Now the reason why I put quotation marks on the word, ready, is because that side of the B team wasn't. They were smashed by the Paradisian side as Felix fell 4-0. The goalkeeping job made by Tryggve Klemens was horrendous. Some bright spots were at defense and forward positions oddly enough, with Alexis Garcia and Manuele Provenza being the best in the match. Sebastian Krister did a great job as well with passing and gave the goalkeeper from Boring Paradise something to think about with some well placed shots. Next match was against hated rivals Free Republics. This time the Felixians came in victorious beating them 3-1. Many Felixians cheered as they beat the team every one hated with a passion. Yes, even more. Anyways, the scorers of the match were Miquel Vivas, scoring in the 8th minute and 22nd minute. The Free Republics scored a goal in the 56th minute. Trygve Lund of Cato scoring in the 79th minute, giving any hope for a comeback impossible.

Finally on the last leg of the Felix Multiverse Football Tour the C team was up to bat as they got ready to face off against the Northern Sunrise Islands. The game was played in Brentwood, NSI as the C team faced off against the NSI Pokémon team. The match ended in a 1-1 draw with Simo Roni scoring the game tying goal with a nice chip over the goalkeeper's hands. The match showed a lot of good marks on all sides of the field as all the players played well. Next up was Aels, another hated rival (notice how we have a lot of hated rivals, huh?) the team that defeated us and denied Felix from achieving first place glory in the BoF. And while this match wasn't official it still sparked passion on both sides and each team wanted to win. Well, Aels won, again. 1-0. While the loss ends the tour in a way Felix least wanted it to finish the players were picked and everything was ready to go. To the friendlies and where we saw the Felixian national team struggled with newbies (well maybe not GAS or Sangti, but whatever).

The friendly matches were a frustrating one as Felix faced against Sangti again with the brand new national team yet that didn't matter as Felix lost again (this time it was official) in a high scoring shootout, 5-4. Felix had a three goal lead by the first half. Yes, THREE GOAL LEAD. With goals from Simo Roni in the 7th minute, Sebastian Krister in the 25th minute and Yun Dong Lee in the 42nd minute. The Sangtian home side was left shocked. The faithful stayed while the regular fans began to exit the stadium. It seemed Felix was in full control, but they weren't as Sangti scored three goals to tie up the match starting off with one in the 48th minute, 53rd and 66th minute. 3-3 tie. Sangti eventually took the lead in the 77th minute with a free kick shot into the net. 4-3 and the whole Sangti side was screaming and rooting for their home team. Felix responded with another goal tying it all up in the 80th minute with a goal by Simo Roni. Finally in the 88th minute the Sangti took the lead with a header into the net. 5-4, final score and Felix was shocked.

It was going to be a tough set of friendlies as Felix as a scoreless tie on the World Cup newbies of the Crystal Empire and a 2-2 tie against lesser ranked German American States started to cast doubts on the team and if they can do well in the qualifying stages. Surely if Felix couldn't beat those two easy teams what chance do they have over higher ranked teams such as Saintland or Wight (ok, bad comparison but you get the gist of what I am talking about). Anyways, going back to the scoreless Crystal Empire-Felix game, Felix seemed to dominate the other side but failed to produce goals as the Crystal Pony goalkeeper did a fantastic job at blocking shots causing much frustration for the offensive side. The next game was a improvement but still, not win for the Felixian side that deserved it so badly. So now Felix hasn't won any late friendly matches and the outlook looks rough for Felix. What will they do? And what will happen to them during the World Cup qualifiers? Will they flop or will they rise up and erase the evidence of those struggles?

And now the announcements for groups in the qualifying stage has been announced, Felix has been placed in a super difficult, Group 22. Our Group features, 28th ranked Sargossa, 58th ranked New Sideburn, 121st Brenecia, 227th Omarios, and finally Bypass814 which is ranked 330th. Well this group is going to be hard as Sargossa (obviously) look to be the favourites of the group. But Felix has a chance to make it through despite the difficult requirements to go to the final stage, the requirement, win the group, get first. Easy, right (sarcasm)? Well it is going to be a bumpy journey as we start off by facing against New Sideburn at their home. They are in Esportiva and they are a damn good team expect Felix to lose against them if the team doesn't start off well from the get go. After a tough opponent we face Omarios at their home, following that we face New Sideburn's former colony Brenecia at our home. After that we face off against Bypass814 at their home and finally, we face Sargossa at our home. The schedule for the next 5 matches will be the opposite.

So that is all from this edition of The National I hope we can do some magic here in Group 22 as it is going to take a special type of effort in order to qualify and make it to the finals of the WC. But I have faith that this team will do wonders, all we need to do is focus and play like we did in the last qualifications (just scratch off the part where we loose in tight matches) or in a better comparison, like the U-15 World Champion team did. Either way, the Felixian people is rooting for The Phoenix and will be sure to watch the game against New Sideburn in their brand new stadium, Farham Arena. Or you can watch it live on TV, with Channel 7 Sports. So common players show what you can do! Impress the multiverse! That is it from Santa Maria, Felix, this has been Steven Smith reporting for The National. Until next time, ciao.

by **Tasrailia** » Mon Sep 16, 2013 11:21 pm

Tasrailia / Theaoie Blog 1
With a feeling for the ages coming for Tasrailia. The feeling of qualfying has once again hit the nation of Tasrailia and this time it's puppet Theaoie. At first glance the groups was a simble tough glance but when they had look a bit more detail. They were happy to see what they got. Yeah they may have no clue on most of the teams espicallely in Group 17 where Tasrailia is located.

At least in Theaoie group there is a couple of nations that they do know. Eastfield Lodge and Groteberg being the nations. Lets only hope that this won't be a compete bored fest. #sleep.

by **Maklohi Vai** » Tue Sep 17, 2013 1:20 am

OOC: I'm writing this at 1 am due to an unexpected storm of work that passed over me ~~today~~ yesterday. Quality below average from where I'm going to be aiming. I hope to get up a DMIVC recap later, but not tonight.

Group 20 Preview - World Cup 66
The Inevitable Syndicate and Audioslavia- Because when you thought you had seen it all...

Whence an opportunity comes along like this, it is not prudent to pass it up. Standing 44th in the world football rankings and first in every Vaian's heart, the Maklohi Vai National Team embarks tomorrow on its fifth World Cup Qualifying quest. Having reached the playoff stage for the first ever time in World Cup 65, the team is prepared to move onto the next step: the finals. Here's who will stand in our way in group 20:

2. Andossa Se Mitrin Vega - Ah, ASMV, how we've missed you. Actually, not that much, because we were in the same qualifying group for last World Cup as well. Funny how that goes. ASMV will forever be remembered as Maklohi Vai's first ever World Cup match, a 2-2 tie in the 62nd edition. Followed by a 0-0 tie with The Archregimancy, Maklohi Vai was catapulted onto the world stage from an early age. ASMV subsequently became a friendly name in Maklohi Vai, a name associated with opportunity and hope. Yet as we stand here today, the difference between the two teams is still large. Although the Vaians have risen up to 44th in the world, the Vegans have, after some fluctuation, maintained a number 2 world ranking, a ranking we feel is very representative of the quality of their team. The Vegans continue to play excellent, if uninspiring, football no matter the stage. They are undoubtedly the largest threat to Maklohi Vai's hopes of advancing, and it would take Bush-like imprudent conduct to ignore their prowess. The Vegans present a challenge, but it is not one that cannot be overcome. Winning against them would put Maklohi Vai in a highly advantageous position, and so that is what we wish for. In all reality, however, we'll settle with a pair of draws. 0-4 points predicted.

83. Zwangzug - There's something about this team that just doesn't quite sit right. They seem innocent enough, playing their multitude of weaker frontline pawned players and occasionally sacrificing them for the greater ability of the bishops and knights of the back line, but ultimately they leave you in a situation where your obligation to react is serious and undeniable. There's something unsettling about that. Regardless, this team has more talent than their rank suggests, having been mentored by the Aguazul squad. Their talent is undeniable, but their experience, in relevance to the Vaians, is lacking. As such, the goal should be to put them in uncomfortable situations where they can no longer execute on their board of precision. If the Vaians can properly do that, they should be able to take a couple games. 4-6 points predicted.

218. Southwick - The third place finishers in the Baptism of Fire, Southwick present a unique challenge. They undoubtedly have potential and talent, but what is most impressive is their drive. Practicing for many time a day during the Baptism of Fire ultimately made them more prepared and better. This clearly payed off for them, but the big question now is burnout: can they sustain that same fervent level of practice? If they can, they will undoubtedly be a trendy dark horse pick for the group, and they'll be worthy of serious study by the Vaian crew. If not, they'll be an easy win, little more than another check in Ishmael Walker's notebook and a glimmer in the players's eyes. Maklohi Vai must watch closely to see which of these two scenarios plays out. 3-6 points predicted.

259. New Matawan - This is a Baptism of Fire playoff team, but don't let that fool you: they're not very good. Coasting more on a poor group than anything else, New Matawan is devoid of superstar talent but also a strong work ethic. They're competent but not amazing, and as such there shouldn't be any issues with dispatching them. 6 points projected.

343. Myeeria - Oddly enough, the team that's ranked lower and has a worse history may be more of a threat. Myeeria is a wholly unremarkable team except for one thing: the Yesopalitha factor. The Myeerian team was under the mentorship of Yesopalitha, and as such has inherited some of their work ethics and skills. The deciding factor, however, is whether or not Myeeria can apply these valuable lessons to the game. They've been inconsistent so far, that is to say the Baptism of Fire, so it really depends on how they turn out. If they come out strong, we won't be able to discount them. If they don't show up, we'll be able to run them over. 4-6 points projected.

Overall, 17-28 points projected is quite a large range. The difference essentially boils down to executing against teams we need to execute against and not screwing up against those which we cannot afford to screw up against. Solid play across the board and no losses to any seed below us could land us in the correct position. Just as easily, a couple bad losses can make it all go downhill. Once again, Maklohi Vai enters a World Cup on the brink of something big. And once more, it's just a question of which way the ball drops.

by **Mizuyuki** » Tue Sep 17, 2013 1:59 am

"We're going out for training, cap. Wanna tag along for some keepy-uppy before Kurumi descends on us like so many fruit flies?"

My face still buried in a fluffy down pillow I'd especially brought from home, I groaned inaudibly.

"Oh, by Amaterasu. I have no idea why we have to get down to training so damned early in the morning. Right, tell Kurumi I'll be down in a sec or two; and keep a spot for me if you're gonna play a practice match - I don't wanna play kick the can all by my lonesome while y'all have the fun scoring goals."

"Will do, cap, but no guarantees - you know how Kurumi is when it comes to tardiness. Just get yourself geared up and full steam ahead to the pitch, I'd say."

I mentally sighed with frustration. Yeah, right, right; I know how Kurumi is when it comes to taking training. She's not gonna let anything slip past her, especially not while we're on the brink of yet another World Cup campaign. Frankly speaking though, I have no idea how we'll get past Ossidiacqua without shipping a boatload of goals, let alone Jeruselem, the top seed in our Group 5.

It is just going to be the perfect World Cup campaign for us this cycle.

And if you didn't catch that sarcasm flying over your head, shame on you. Here's a dunce's cap; go sit in the corner and put it on.

"Okay, got it, I'll just grab five more minutes before I go get cleaned up ... "

"Fair warning, captain - you're not going to be pleased when you see Kurumi-chan this morning if you're late in for training. We're using the indoor pitch today, you know."

Struggling to clear the last vestiges of sleep from my fuzzy mind, I tried to place the owner of the calm voice that had just spoken. Was it Izawa? No ... Izawa was far less composed than that - I think she'd sooner step on a landmine and get her legs blown off before she dared to interrupt me while I was sleeping. Not that I'd mind her waking me up though - she just has some morbid fear of offending her seniors on the team.

How about Saten? Can't possibly be her - Ruiko never gets up earlier than me unless she's got some odd craving for ramen or pickled radishes in the middle of the night. You're liable to be cleaned out of any food if she works one of her infamous cravings up.

Ah, got it - it's got to be Ishibashi. Or Tomoe, as I like to call her. Only in the privacy of my own mind, though.

My brain slowly whirring back to life, I rubbed my eyes and slowly straightened myself into a sitting position on my bunk.

I gingerly prop my favourite teddy bear, which I'd been hugging while I slept, onto a plush cushion that was conveniently lying right beside me, and turned to address Ishibashi, who was standing before me with a frown on her face, looking like a veritable pro.

She looks good in sportswear, I'll give her that.

"So what's up, Ishibashi? What's possessed Kurumi to use the indoor pitch for today's training? I was under the impression that we'd be working on our set-piece routines today, and you can't do that in the indoor pitch. Not since I slammed a rocket of a free kick into our GK coach and knocked his teeth clean out - I think he had to get a full set of dentures after that."

"Nah, we're not having things easy today. Kurumi just told me that we're to grab a ball each from the stores and make our way over to the indoors. I don't think we're getting off with just set piece routines, because Kurumi was smiling with relish when she told me to deliver her instructions. Can't imagine she's planning a surprise birthday party for someone ... "

A weary, cynical smile twisted itself around my lips as I stretched myself luxuriantly and got up from my bunk.

"Well then, let's set forth and see what our dear manager has in store for us poor sods, shall we?"

"Okay .... will someone please tell me what this means?"

Kitted up in full gear and holding a ball under my arm, I stared down the length of my nose at a bunch of weird looking mechanical contraptions that were strewn around the indoor pitch. A couple of the brave ones warily made their way towards the contraptions and inspected them in detail, occasionally giving the things a kick or two just for good measure.

This is a bloody peculiar way to go about football training, if you ask me, with things like these lying all around the place.

"Captain Tsuchimikado! Glad you found time to drop in for a training session today!"

I instinctively turned around to locate the person addressing me, and behold - there was our very own Kurumi-chan, stalking towards me with a glint in her eyes.

"I cannot emphasise how much of an honour it is to have such a dignified personality grace our humble training facilities today, Tsuchimikado-san. We're just about to start training; would you like me to bring you some cheesecake, of which you are so partial, or perhaps a glass of lemonade to take the edge off the heat of the day?"

I couldn't help but sigh again. "Kurumi, cut the sarcasm out, will you? I'm sorry I'm late, okay? Now can we just get to training already?"

"These mechanical robots - they will be your training partners today."

"EHH?"

The entire team yelped in some surprise, having been taken aback by Kurumi's outrageous statement.

"Our training partners, you say, yet they don't seem to be moving at all ... "

"I knew she had a couple of bolts loose in her head, Kurumi-chan does."

"Okay, calm the hell down, people. These are, as you will observe, mechanical robots."

"Mechanical robots? Looks more like a pile of junk iron to me."

"That reminds me! Can I drag this lot over to my place after training? I'll give you a cut of the profits from the local scrap metal collecting facility too, Kurumi!"

"Heh, you won't get peanuts for these rusting heaps of metal. Probably have more luck trying to get a boyfriend."

"OI! WILL YOU LOT JUST SHUT THE FUCK UP WHILE I TRY TO EXPLAIN!"

At Kurumi's sudden bellow out of the blue, I nearly jumped out of my skin. She does like to frighten people like that, with one of her maniacal fits of temper.

"NOW! These are .... hold the hell up, I need a drink of water before I continue talking to the likes of you imbeciles." Kurumi ripped a bottle of mineral water out of the clutches of one of the squad members, who squeaked in fear, and proceeded to take several long gulps of the chilled water, before hurling the empty bottle into a nearby trash can with some fury.

"As I was saying, these are mechanical robots, designed to be utilised in football training by one of the trinity zaibatsu - Miria, with the blessing of the Ministry of Science and Technology. You should be aware that the Government usually keeps a watchful eye over the state of sports in the Auroral Union - and your ... outstanding performances in the Market Cup has prompted them to speed this project down the development queue for your train-"

"Question!"

"Did I allow questions from the floor? Think nothing of free speech or any such shit like that! This camp isn't a democracy, it's like my very own Mother Knows Best State!*"

"Oh boy, she's finally snapped into dictator mode."

"Now, picking up from where Misaka interrupted me, these robots are state of the art tech, so to speak. They are made of titanium interwoven with carbon fibres, so I imagine they're going to be as hard as nails. People, your job is to dribble past a succession of these robots, ten to be precise, and score past a specially designed goalkeeper robot right at the other end of the pitch - with one catch."

"And that is?"

"And that is, you're disqualified if you let the robot get even a single touch on either your person or the ball, or you fail to put the ball past the 'keeper robot. That means, you idiots who can't even dribble past these clunky monsters will find yourselves repeating this routine until you finally manage to stick your goddamned ball into the back of the net. That includes you too, Takanashi! Don't even think of sneaking away off to the cafeteria or somewhere!"

I glanced up from my feet, only to see our *human* goalkeeper, Takanashi Kiyoko, start in alarm. She never had the flair for dribbling - but then, to be fair, she was a 'keeper.

"This will help you develop your footwork, to the point where I can utilise you as a sweeper keeper without relying too much on the defence to mop up errant attacks."

"Everyone clear? Got the instructions drilled into your dumb skulls? Then ... get moving already, you dimwits!"

* - A nod to good ol' Max.

by **Kitsuneshima** » Tue Sep 17, 2013 3:18 am

Mihashi Chiyo was an enigma of a football manager, that much was sure.

She'd done it all during her short three year spell in the Mizuyuki domestic leagues - so much so that even the current flavour of the month back home in Kirayuki, Shirakiin Kurumi, could not hope to compare with the reputation Mihashi had earned herself in those three years in charge.

Infamy was something that Mihashi was used to, something that she embraced with welcoming arms and an open heart, for it was what personified her, made her one of the best damn coaches ever to manage in Mizuyuki. She was a pro coach, what locals called an old hand in football management despite only earning her badges and taking the plunge into managing a top club, all at the tender age of 22, and it showed in her bearing, in her actions.

Mihashi looked every inch a legendary manager in handling the day-to-day business of football, and she excelled at it - be it fiddling with her strategy to counter difficult teams looking to outplay Mikan, taking press conferences, in which she often liberally sprayed the press with a healthy dose of vitriol laden with a smattering of choice expletives, taking daily training, yelling at an errant ballboy for not returning the ball back to play quickly ... the list was endless.

On one memorable occasion, Mihashi perpetrated an incident that would have been a national scandal by anyone's standards except hers - she heaved a durian - still in its thorny shell, conveniently located on a fruit bowl beside her, at a daring journalist who had had the gumption to berate her for not being professional in carrying out her duties as manager of a respectable club. The journalist ended up in hospital with a broken nose and several stitches, while Mihashi herself was given a suspension of six months from her managerial duties for her trouble, only escaping prosecution on a charge of battery because there wasn't enough evidence to establish a prima facie case against her.

Eventually, the press, who were tired of being peppered with Mihashi's rages and soaring tempers, relieved her of her media duties - they instead chose to defer to her assistant for her take on the day's play, info on a team's transfer prospects; in short, the kind of footballing gossip one would normally expect a manager to dispense. Nonetheless, Mihashi was not deterred by this - rather, it was like manna to her - she much preferred delegating what little obligations she had with the press to her more than capable assistant.

Of course, that was in days long past - Mihashi was now the manager of the Foxes, the Kitsunian national football team.

In a way, Mihashi missed the old days so much that there was a persistent dull ache in her heart - it seemed as though her heart was leading her back to where she truly belonged, sitting in the manager's office back in one of the posh facilities of a top domestic club.

She missed coaching the best players there were in the Miria League - those of Mikan Wave, two-times double winners under her tutelage. Those heady days were alluring indeed - she used to imagine herself five years ago, bellowing tactical instructions from the sidelines, shoving the officials in protest against rulings that went against Mikan, and of course, battling it out with the Mizuyuki football legend, Ishikawa Haruka, when she was in charge of Little Busters, a team brimming with potential and hunger for glory, for the league title - Mihashi eventually edged Ishikawa out on goal difference, and a razor thin +4 at that, to lift her second championship with Mikan Wave.

Mihashi sighed as she contemplated just dropping her post with the national team and hustle back to the hurly-burly of domestic football, where she could once again challenge for major honours with a major club.

She already regretted taking up the post of Kitsunian national team manager - there was no prospect of lifting silverware of any relevance, nor was there an interesting project in place that was capable of occupying her time . She would have to rebuild the entire team from scratch to her precise specifications. The only worry she had was that the Scattered Isles might not contain enough footballing talent to enable the national team to make its mark on the world stage.

"So ... Mihashi-kun, I think it is safe to conclude that we are going to be eliminated from the World Cup at the qualifying stages, and we're not going to be able to put up a fight at all?"

"I'm afraid I have to be honest with you, President; the current Kitsunian team is clearly insufficient in terms of talent to enable me to make a tilt for World Cup qualification, let alone any other footballing competition of note in the world."

"We're basically granting you free license to run this team as you see fit - carte blanche is not something I am usually inclined to entrust employees of the FA with. Is there anything you'd need to ensure that we, the Kitsunes, emerge as a football superpower? I warn you - I will not take impossibility of an endeavour as an argument to excuse you from carrying out what I'm sure are somewhat onerous duties."

"I am of course aware that rebuilding a football team takes time - years, possibly decades, but we at the FA are ultimately committed to ensuring that Kitsuneshima's football squad stands up there with the rest of the world. Thus, do not hesitate to inform us of anything that might be needed - be it your requirements, institution of any measures on our part, or the handling of any bureaucratic affairs regarding the national team. I'm sure you now understand our position, Mihashi-kun."

"I do, President, I do. However, the time has come for me to be blunt with you. As it stands, the Kitsuneshima talent pool is simply too shallow for me to have any chance to developing a strong team from scratch. To be honest, we've lost all future competitive edge since our secession from Mizuyuki, simply because most of our current players originate from Mizuyuki's far more developed football talent programme."

"Thus, you will excuse me if we do not perform well enough to merit a place in the World Cup finals - as I've said, the Kitsunes are not up to scratch, and they are certainly in a different class compared to the Auroral Union's squad - a far inferior one, that is."

The President clasped his hands together.

"Mihashi-kun, you could not possibly think that we didn't take all these factors into account when we first approached you to take on the position of manager? Indeed, one could say that this is precisely why we hired you - to negate any disadvantages the Kitsunes may have through your coaching. You are in effect the head of matters concerning national football. Why isn't it possible for you to develop the current crop of players into a team capable of winning at least a minor tournament? I'll reiterate that you have our full support in all matters, extreme circumstances notwithstanding."

"Please, President, do not insult my intelligence. I am of course aware that it is part of my job description to form a team that's going to do just that - but the brutal truth is that we're basically infirm in the world of football. Heck, look at Mizuyuki - they even managed to finish in a respectable mid-table position in their maiden World Cup campaign - I'll be bloody surprised if we manage to keep clear of the bottom of the table this cycle. Despite you pledging all your support, I'm afraid that this is not enough. Realistically, we cannot hope to even qualify for the World Cup finals for a minimum of ten cycles, which will give me ample time for the development of a talent programme that I will personally oversee - this will hopefully place us in a far more advantageous position come then."

A slight frown crossed the President's wrinkled face.

"And if I were to tell you that ten cycles is far too long a grace period?"

"Then you can expect my resignation letter to be on your table by nine o'clock sharp tomorrow."

There was a pregnant pause for a while, although it seemed like an eternity to Mihashi. She was essentially putting her job on the line by going toe-to-toe against the President of the FA like this - it was a battle she might not survive.

" ... very well, Mihashi-kun. I'll give you your ten cycles - with a sole proviso."

"And that would be ... ?"

"You'll have to lead the Kitsunes against the Auroral Union's Nova in a couple of days. Think of it as a warm up of sorts for the upcoming World Cup campaign. I'll personally be at the game, and what I expect is this - you'll have to make the Kitsunes perform as well as they possibly can, to the extent that I am satisfied with their play and am convinced that you are the right person to continue occupying the manager's hotseat."

"If you don't meet my expectations ... let us just say that you'll be clearing out your office the same day."

Mihashi gritted her teeth. She had expected the President not to accede to her demands, but to play hardball with her ... this was an unexpected response from the usually sanguine, pacifist President.

"Gotcha. I'll make them play out of their skins for one match. One match is all I can promise. After that, I won't be responsible for what repercussions that my methods will have on the players' long term careers."

A wan smile surfaced on the President's normally impassive face.

"I expected as much from you, Mihashi-kun. I'm looking forward to see the Kitsunes play. You may leave now."

by **Mizuyuki** » Tue Sep 17, 2013 5:05 am

Live Commentary : Mizuyuki versus Kitsuneshima
Nova against Kitsunes - who will prevail and earn the bragging rights?

Komiya Kyousuke, Special Correspondent

KKomiya@sekaishinbun

Welcome to a session of live commentary, brought to you by the Mizuyukian premier media franchise, Sekai Shinbun! I, Komiya Kyousuke, will be your commentator today, and it gives me great pleasure to welcome another equally luminous footballing personality who has deigned to join us today as a guest commentator, all the way from Goryo, where she is having her sabbatical.
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

I'm guessing that the description is familiar to many of our faithful viewers back home, amirite? Yes, our special guest today is none other than Mizuyuki's very own Ishikawa Haruka, the current manager of the Mizuyuki national football team!
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

Hey there, Mizuyuki football fans! This is Ishikawa Haruka, your friendly guest commentator ... and also the manager of the Mizuyuki football team. Eh, I'm on my sabbatical anyway, so for all practical purposes Shirakiin Kurumi is the manager, but well, let me have my moment of glory ... ^^
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

Well, Ishikawa-san, what do you think of this ... intriguing matchup today? Kitsuneshima are being led by your erstwhile rival during your spell coaching Little Busters in the domestic league, now rebranded as the Miria Aurora League. Will she be able to defeat a Mizuyuki team that's looking very strong today?
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

Personally, I favour Mizuyuki to win, of course! The team has been under my guidance for a considerable amount of time already, and it'll be interesting to see how Shirakiin has managed to mould the squad into a fluid team with its own distinctive style and philosophy. However, if we're going by hard facts alone, I can't see any way for Mihashi to squeeze a victory out of this match barring any considerable upsets. I mean, the Kitsunes have went on a dismal run in their debut tournament, the Baptism of Fire, and look how that went. Excepting Jinnai Minatsu and Toyota Kaori, the performances that the Kitsunes served up was absolutely abysmal.
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

It can't be a coincidence that our experts are also favouring Mizuyuki to grab a morale boosting win ahead of what should be a promising, yet gruelling World Cup Qualifying campaign ahead of them. However, I'd just like to see Kitsuneshima upstaging Mizuyuki for a win. No offence, Ishikawa-san, but I think the Kitsunes need this win far more than the Nova do; they'll likely crash out with a whimper in the World Cup if they have their team morale shattered by a trouncing at this point in time.
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

are

KKomiya@sekaishinbun

My apologies then, Ishikawa-san. I assure you that I was ... joking, in a manner of speaking. Ah, looks like the match has kicked off - if you, our viewers, aren't aware of this, we'll be covering the match live!
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

As the teams kickoff, Mizuyuki are in possession, thanks to Tsuchimikado winning the coin flip. Ball being passed around in neat little triangles here ...
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

Isshiki slips past the attentions of Sakanoue! She wriggles free from the free for all that ensues on the right flank, with Nishio getting stuck in to cover for the stranded Sakanoue ... she delivers a peach of a cross into the area!
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

And very close there by Izawa - nimbly springing up to meet the ball, good contact there, with excellent power, but it just shades the outside of the post and is out for a goal kick.
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

Goal kick is quickly taken by Maruyama, who seems a bit shaken after that early assault on his goal. The ball soars up into the air and is met by Saten, whose powerful header deflects off Jinnai and into the path of Tsuchimikado. Tsuchimikado lines up a shot ... we all know what she can do from here!
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

She's not gonna shoot! Tsuchimikado just about edges past a sliding Fujioka and floats a ball straight into the path of Izawa. She blasts the ball straight at goal!
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

Brilliant save from Maruyama, whose exceptional reflexes there allow him to spring to his right and divert the ball away, where it is immediately booted away from danger by a panicky Shimura. I must say, the Nova are enjoying a blistering start to the game - even though this is just a glorified friendly, they're still playing at the very top of their game, which is more than can be said for the Kitsunes, who are being subjected to continued pressure - looks like they're gonna get dominated if they don't step their game up sharpish.
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

Knowing my rival, Mihashi probably has a trick or two up her sleeve. She's familiar with Mizuyuki's style, having coached in the Miria Aurora League's previous incarnation, and you can be sure that she'll do everything to maximise her chances of getting one over on Mizuyuki. This is, after all, a much bigger match for her than it is for the rest of us.
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

That may very well be so, but it remains to be seen whether her players can execute her gameplan to perfection. After all, Mizuyuki are in a completely different class to them - and they might well be defeated by a cricket score if they do not manage to curb the relentless waves of attacks that Shirakiin's teams are so renowned for.
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

Komiya-san, if I'm not badly mistaken, I know what Mihashi is planning now, from the way the Kitsunes are playing right now.
KKomiya@sekaishinbun

And what might Mihashi's master plan be? It's gonna have to be a masterstroke if they're planning to defeat the Nova today!
ishikawaharuka@mizuyukifa

Give me a few secs - I need to check up on my files on Mihashi!

by **Eura** » Tue Sep 17, 2013 5:42 am

OOC: Sorry for the lack of description of Apox and Wight, I haven’t had access to their rosters.

OOC edit: COCK, didn't see Apox's RP. One sec...

Emplor Blog: Friendlies reveal weaknesses

Kelly Sporadic’s team experienced a tough run in to their World Cup qualifying campaign, playing more than one pre-qualifying friendly for the first time in a decade.

Their first game was an outing against Apox, a difficult challenge, and after such a congested summer fixture list for the players at their clubs, the fatigue showed. Eura fell to a lacklustre 2-1 defeat, despite a Skorji Oslograd goal. Eura came home to face world champions Wight a few days later, the team who overcame Polar Islandstates in the last final – an extra incentive for Polarian assistant manager Johannes Kallstrom and Polarian born striker Skorji Oslograd. Oslograd was presented to the crowd with the much vaunted number ten shirt before the game. As he is seen by many as Lee Sharp’s natural successor, it was a big moment for the 28 year old. Sam Thomas also finally inherited the number nine jersey from Sharp’s deadly strike partner Sam Needle. Despite the hype Eura created few chances other than a missed sitter for Craig Sinclair, firing wide from 6 yards. Wight scored a goal on the counter in each half to win the game.

They were more successful against rivals Sameba, giving Roman Ayebler a torrid time as they scored four goals. Oslograd got on the scoresheet with a tap in before Tom Riley thumped home a 20 yard strike. Sinclair then curled in a free kick after a bad foul by Aldardo that really deserved a red, and Thomas completed the victory with a diving header. World Cup qualifying awaits in a group that maybe isn’t as difficult as feared – Boring Paradise being the most feared opposition – but after a slow start that is no reason to be complacent.

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