World Cup 66 RP Thread

[West Angola]

NAMIBE CHRONICLE

WORLD CUP 66: GROUP NINETEEN PREVIEW

Group 19:
West Angola (27)
Bears Armed (34)
Punum (111)
The Kytler Peninsulae (178)
Patistan (298)
Azabad (Unranked)

Group Preview

1. West Angola- (27) The top seed in the group, albeit not by much, West Angola is seeking to continue to bounce back from a disappointing World Cup 65 qualifying campaign. Despite a furious comeback, West Angola could not overcome a slow start and fell just short of second place in Group Eleven, finishing one point back of Sandwich Territories and four back of Osarius. Coach Phillip Garren blamed the lackluster beginning on overconfidence, saying “we didn’t take anyone except Osarius and Astograth seriously, and the rest of the group, especially Sandwich Territories, made us pay for it.” Garren vowed that West Angola would be a team reborn the next time they appeared on the world stage, and he backed up his words with action when the burgundy-and-white stormed to a Cup of Harmony victory, their first international championship of any kind. If West Angola can build on their success, they should do very well in this group, and the short schedule will work in their favor, removing the disastrous middle run that has hammered them so many times.

2. Bears Armed- (34) West Angola has played Bears Armed twice, both times in World Cup 64. In that Cup, Bears Armed was the top seed in the group, cakewalking their way to first place, and played like such in their first match against West Angola, crushing our team 4-0 at home. However, West Angola pulled off a stunner in the return leg, upsetting the Ursines 1-0 in a match which proved the deciding edge in a tight race with Ossidiacqua for the group’s runner-up slot. Now, the situations are slightly reversed, with West Angola holding the top spot in the group and Bears Armed attempting to play the spoiler. These two teams are so closely matched, however, that either one could come out of their head-to-head matches, leaving the deciding factor as how they each fare against the lower-seeded teams in the group, all of which are well in back of both.
Predicted Result: 1 Win, 1 Loss

3. Punum- (111) A potential sleeper within the group, Punum returns for their second World Cup. Their first international football appearance came in World Cup 65, where they finished sixth in their group, but only five points shy of a qualifying spot. They proceeded to pull off an unlikely result in the Cup of Harmony, drawing all four of their matches to finish fourth in a group which included Super-Llamaland, Svengarda, and Saintland. Punum could pull a surprising upset if either of the top seeds take them for granted, as they showed a propensity for upsets in both the World Cup and the Cup of Harmony.
Predicted Result: 2 Wins


4. The Kytler Peninsulae- (178) A burgeoning footballing nation, The Kytler Peninsulae is seeking to bounce back from a disappointing sixth-place finish in World Cup 65. The team appears confident going into World Cup 66, hoping to build on a promising showing in the Jeremy Jaffacake Jamboree, in which they stunned hosts Audioslavia on the third matchday 4-3. Although this was the team’s only positive result, the win was a much-needed confidence booster for this Kytler, and gave them hope for their future in international football.
Predicted Result: 2 Wins

5. Patistan- (298) A member of the most recent Baptism of Fire class, Patistan disappointed in their debut, finishing third in a noncompetitive group with only seven points. They will seek to improve on their underwhelming performance this time around, but they have their work cut out for them. The team appeared listless and disorganized throughout the initial stage, and several independent observers questioned their effort level as the team blew a chance to advance through with frustrating defeats in the latter half of play. If Patistan can play at a level above and beyond that which they displayed in the Baptism of Fire, they could manage to even steal third place away if Punum falters, but it is the opinion of this publication that they will not, and a bottom finish in the group is not out of the question.
Predicted Result: 2 Wins

6. Azabad- (Unranked) Very little is known about this team, as this is their first international footballing competition, and they did not participate in the Baptism of Fire. West Angola should be able to beat them twice, but the same danger prevalent in all matches between a top seed and a bottom seed, the danger of overconfidence leading to an upset, cannot be ignored. West Angola needs to stay focused against this team, because they know Bears Armed will be, and there’s no margin for error in this format.
Predicted Result: 2 Wins

[Gregoryisgodistan]

Here is Gregoryisgodistan's schedule for the World Cup 66, as well as projected results.

Game 1: vs. Tibbiville Tibbiville comes out of Pot 6 and was too incompetent to even send a roster for the media guide. They are the only team in Group 17 ranked lower than us. This should be an easy win in our opener. Result: Win 2-0

Game 2: vs. Shadowbourne This is a tougher game, against the team out of Pot 3. But it's at home, so that should help us. Shadowbourne, like Tibbiville, failed to publish a roster, and we should have more experience by then. It might not be enough for a win, but we should manage a draw. Result: Draw 1-1

Game 3: at Valnora This will be the hardest game of the group, traveling to its top team. We probably don't have much of a chance in this game, but hopefully we put up a good fight. Result: Loss 3-0

Game 4: vs. Tarsalia Hosting a team that's slightly higher than us in the ranks. This should be a fairly close game, and expect it to be an exciting 1. Result: Draw 0-0

Game 5: at Carpathia and Ruthenia C&R is too incompetent to publish a roster, so they might not play well. However, they are the second-best team in the group. By this time, however, we should have plenty of experience, while they'll still be incompetent. We'll keep it close, but this will be hard to pull off on the road. Result: Loss 1-0

Game 6: at Tibbiville Like in the first game, we should dominate this one against a weak opponent. They're ranked below us and apparently have no roster. Result: Win 2-1

Game 7: at Shadowbourne We should have improved by this point over our performance in Game 2, but now we have to go on the road. That will be tough, but we'll hang in there anyway. Result: Draw 0-0

Game 8: vs. Valanora Welcoming the best team in the group to Gregoryisgodistan should be fun, but we're still not going to win. They're too good. Result: Loss 2-0

Game 9: at Tarsalia Now we have to face them on the road. This will be a lot harder than facing them at home. Don't underestimate that team just because we shut them out at home. Result: Loss 2-1

Game 10: vs. Caprathia and Ruthenia Assuming C&R continues their incompetence throughout the entire group stage, we should have the experience to win or draw at this point. We don't know if that's going to happen, but this result assumes it does. Result: Win 1-0

Total results: 3-4-3 (W-L-D), 12 points.

[Andossa Se Mitrin Vega]

World Cup 66 promises to be a brilliant show in more ways than one. First of all is the qualification format that cuts the number of matchdays needed back to an easy ten rather than the 18 or so we have become accustomed to of late. All being said, we like the format as it will feel like the Cups of 160 years ago when the Sea Dragons were still newcomers to the international scene.

And then we add in an odd set of rankings where the two most consistent sides in the world over the last few cups sit easily atop the rankings. And yet for all that consistency neither Polar Islandstates nor our own Sea Dragons have claimed a championship. Defending champions, Wight, sit in third with historical powerhouses Valanora, The Holy Empire, and Audioslavia just behind. The top 15 in the rankings are loaded with habitual contenders and former Champions with ten of those sides having hoisted the title at least once.

Another interesting note is that 7 of the top 10 (and 9 of the top 15) hail from the greatest sporting region in history- Atlantian Oceania. And for all their boasting, the “little brother” region of Rushmore has just one in the top 10 although PIS is the number one side in the world. Even the Dreamed Realm has more top 10 nations (2) than our would-be rivals. And no, I will not stop berating Rushmore. They claim to be the best sporting region and heir-apparent to the throne. Granted, they have been given access to the Royal Feast, but they are still sitting at the closest table to the door. When their stats and numbers allow them to claim a spot at our private banquet table, I will be the first to welcome them.

*************************************************

The Sea Dragons have made a wholesale change in the squad for this World Cup. For the first time ever the doors have been opened to all peoples of the Empire to represent themselves on the pitch. And for the first time ever the ASMV national side will be led by a manager of non-Vegai heritage. The Khordahl (Dwarf) manager of Stonengatren UH, Tanis Bazmud, has been handed the reins and he has put together a young squad of players that have the Empire in a buzz over what will come.


Players to watch:
Arryci Ar'ath – the young Vegai forward is brilliant with both feet and can beat defenders to either side. With great power in each leg, she can shoot from nearly any angle or distance.

Fae Yahaira- true that Fae is a reserve forward, a lowly place on a defensive minded Sea Dragon side. But she is the first Khaza (Orc) player to where the Sky Blue & Yellow.

Ajessa Juu – A Vegai-born daughter of Starblaydi parents, Ajessa has chosen to play for ASMV. She has great instincts pushing forward from the middle and works seamlessly with Arryci.

Kulonu Mabahu – Could be the next great Zirakulii midfielder for the Sea Dragons. Strong and relentless and great pace.

Gracchus Pack – The son of a Falcanian military commander stationed in Falcione, Grachus has been granted dual-citizenship so that he can play for the Sea Dragons. As agile and quick as his race would suggest, he will be a thorn in the side of opposing attackers.

Dorminyk Harladar- A Boern (race of humanoids descended from ursines), Dorm is huge and powerful. He is reminiscent of legends Kimo and Timo. Just getting around him will be problem enough.

Yedauk Thokradul – the latest in a long line of hard-hitting, punishing center backs for the Sea Dragons, this Khordahl promises to live up to expectations. He will “bring the pain”

Anghel Traian- A Kagdaz player who relocated to ASMV following the destruction of his homeland, Anghel has proved to be brilliant in net. Perhaps he will be the next great Sea Dragon keeper.

****************************

And now for the Group 20 matchups & Fixtures

MD1 Home/MD6 Away – Southwick
Who are these guys? Well anyway… They do like to play very physical without trying to be dirty. Since we play that way as well, we look forward to some bone crunching play. As long as we don’t get a pansy official from say – Krytenia or some such – we should be just fine. And they have a modified formation know as the Cheveron. Nice. The Tidal Surge will swallow it up. Mr. Locklear, meet Dorm. And play nice you two.

MD2 Away/MD7 Home – Myeeria
We didn’t even know who Southwick was without looking. And these guys haven’t even given us anything to see. Might just play the reserves.

MD3 Home/MD8 Away – New Matawan
Again - We didn’t even know who Southwick was without looking. And these guys haven’t even given us anything to see. Might just play the reserves.

MD4 Home/MD9 Away - Maklohi Vai
I demand a redraw. We see these guys all the time and we don’t like it one bit. The key to these matches will be to score early. They don’t play nearly as well when trailing. Cant afford to drop points and this side loves to take them from us.

MD5 Away/MD0 Home – Zwangzug
This is perhaps the most intriguing pair of matches for us. Zwangzug is quickly regaining their former prowess and are a hard side to figure out. We have to stay true to our style and control the pace of the match. They would love nothing more than to ruin our run at a title.

[Valanora]

Some say that to change is a necessary thing in order to grow and become greater than what you are or have been. If that is the truth, then perhaps it stands to reason why myself and the team I lead have not tasted the spoils of victory in nearly ten years now. After winning the championship in World Cup 61, we thought we were invincible, that there was no one in the entire community that could stand up to the challenge that we provided. After all, we had just broken through to our record tying championship and had done so with relative ease, recording a record breaking scoreline in the Final in that triumph. It was only natural that we would let our prides swell more than they likely should have, even if we kept most of those egotistical boasts within the locker room.

Success is fleeting though and that is the lesson that we should have taken heed of despite the euphoria of having such a glamorous achievement. Here we are now five cycles later and we have not made it back to the Final again after winning that title, instead we have seen ourselves as a nation and our clubs hit a decline that is bordering on the unprecedented. While it is hardly a crisis yet, considering the trophy case that the Marauders and many Vanorian international clubs have, it is starting to become a worry. It is not that there is a lack of success that is such a worry, it is that everything that has been tried before now to rectify the situation on both fronts have failed to yield results.

As such, it was inevitable that there would be great changes when they finally came. I sit here as the captain of the Marauders and yet now as I look around the dressing room while we prepare for our first qualifying match, I don't recognize half of the players on the squad. They have been replaced by new faces that were not a part of the failures of the past few cycles, alongside a new manager that has us playing a new style. It is as attacking as our previous managers had us playing and in fact calls on a more defensive awareness. I am totally unsure that if this change in style will be beneficial to the side, but the manager believes that it suits the strengths of the players on the squad and in the player pool.

That player pool is now a real threat to all of us on the roster, even the likes of va Drake, Soldarian, and myself. Despite our tenures on the team, this manager seems more than ready to cause a stir if they think it will suit to strengthen the side and improve our chances. I do not blame for that, we all are striving to make the squad as good as we can be, but there is a small part of me that laments the situation. I, as well as all those who have worn the Marauder kit, have put in countless amount of hours training and working to earn our places on the national team. Not one of us is intentional not living up the expectations that we are burdened with as favorites for the tournament nearly every cycle. However we are treated as nothing more than assets to be discarded if we do fail, it seems quite unfair in a way.

Perhaps that is simply the nature of professional competitions, you are only as good as your last results. It may be right, it may be wrong, but it definitely seems to be the trend of the day as far as I can tell. If even Laborious Hawk has to worry about their position on the Vanorian national team. Maybe I too will need to change...

[The Licentian Isles]

Cyan-and-Gold Observer

Cyan-and-Gold Continue As Predicted In Friendlies

In two friendlies taking place before the beginning of the qualifiers on the road to Audioslavia and The Inevitable Syndicate for World Cup 66, the Licentian Isles got a win and a loss, continuing current form as they did so.

In their first game of the two, the Cyan-and-Gold hosted the Corsairs of Sargossa at LTI Stadium in Montfort. After some interesting banter between some fairly low ranking employees in both FAs, mainly about the Licentian Isles’ run of dominance over the higher-ranked Sargossa, both in previous World Cups, and the recent Orean Olympics, where the Men’s team beat Sargossa twice on the way to their bronze medal, a match was organised to see if Sargossa could break their bad run against the Licentian Isles, or if the Licentians could avoid that and get a win on the run-up to the World Cup.

In the first half, the play was quite tentative, with both sides looking to build up their fitness before going on any kind of serious kind of attack. The first real chance of the game went to the Corsairs, when Federico Ferreyra placed a shot past Shay Jamieson, but couldn’t beat the far post. The recently crowned Esportivan champions also had a couple of good chances; Aran Miller’s thirty yard free kick went closest, with the curling shot hitting the roof of Ezequiel Medrán’s net.

The second half was more exciting from the off, with the Cyan-and-Gold getting an early goal. Captain Ruaraidh Donaldson played in a lofted through ball, and Alex Keir was on the end of it, driving home the strike from just inside the six yard box. Late on, Sargossa had a goal disallowed, after Mariano Estrada was adjudged to be offside, and while the Corsairs fumed, the Cyan-and-Gold attacked, and substitute Fraser Docherty found himself easily beating Medrán for his first goal for the Licentian Isles.

After the two nil victory over Sargossa, the focus switched to a regular fixture on the Licentian calendar, the biennial Gardiner-Stewart Cup, contested between the Licentian Isles and Wight, a tournament to commemorate the life, death, and subsequent life (it’s a long story) of Licentian Hall of Famer, Alex Gardiner-Stewart. The Wightlings won the first edition of the Cup, which also involved Yesopalitha, then retained it with a draw in Spit last time out.

With the Cyan-and-Gold Army out in full force in Montfort, this was a serious fixture for many Licentians; though the rivalry with Wight is a friendly one, in most minds, a win over the Wightlings would be worth more than a win over the Cyborg Dutch or Apoxians. The Licentians who thought that Schwartz’s Boys could somehow beat the World Cup champions were quickly proven wrong; it only took five minutes for Saville Berie, the Septen Islander, to score for Wight, and put them on track to keep hold of the Cup.

While the Licentians began to fight back in the second half, with Alex Keir going very close just before the hour mark, but the Wightlings asserted their dominance fairly easily afterwards, with two goals for Cornelius van Daal, including a penalty given away by Sam Hill, and they took home the Cup, with much camaraderie between the two teams afterwards, as a friendly should end.

All in all, some good preparation for Joachim Schwartz’s side going for a record performance in the World Cup this time out. While the Wight loss was surely disappointing, they are the defending World Cup champions, and anybody who thought we could beat them was delusional, to be honest. The win against Sargossa, however, shows a lot of positives; it was a dominant side, and they beat a higher-ranked side, which has to be a good sign going into a World Cup qualification campaign where we will play the Holy Empire twice.

Speaking of the World Cup, our first game, coming in a few day’s time, will see Liventia come to Montfort to take on the Cyan-and-Gold, in a must-win game for the Licentian Isles, if they want to qualify, that is.

[Kalumba]

Pisstake Peg's Predictions for Group 18
So it's World Cup time again folks and we have consulted fabled mystic and friend of the 'spirits', Pisstake Peg, to give you her predictions for Group 18.

Hello again folks, after the glorious success of my predictions last year OTLWTL has commissioned me to once again let you know in advance what fate awaits Kalumba in this World Cup.

After a glorious winning start Kalumba fire first team coach Magnus Malan for negative tactics and trying to bring back the veteran BoF 43 team. Elsewhere in the group Vilita lie bottom without even scoring a goal leading to a public enquiry into mtch fixing and the execution of their manager. Western Cuba sit top after a high scoring start leading the Kudus by goal difference alone.

Magnus Malan leads a dressing room coup with rebel members of the veteran side, carrying out the summary execution of George Davies and the new Kahali Spears youngsters. In his first game in charge he grinds out a boring nil-nil draw handing Vilita a first pint and earning the Ire of the press at home. Iwanawin defeat group leaders Western Cuba and take second place.

Malan is himself deposed in a violent coup by disgruntled fans and reporters after a further three goalless draw. Vilita continue their recovery but are checked by suprise group leader Iwanawin. Despite the change of management Kalumba continue to struggle with both first team squads killed in dressing room civil wars.

After the entire rubber chicken population of Kalumba is sacrificed Magaret finally rewards the loyal Kudu fans with a stable dressing room regime under former reporter Bruce Mtwetwe, who rules with an iron fist and enforces severe punishment upon a still failing rookie team. Iwanawin continue to lead the group with Vilita and Sandwich Territories fighting for the play-off position.

Iwanawin win the group by a single point with Western Cuba making a late run to win the valued play off position. After snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, Kalumba pip Carialus to finish bottom and Mtwetwe's tyrannical rule is ended by a wave of popular protests from fans. In her infinite wisdom Margaret decides to resurrect George Davies and the executed Kalumban players, allowing a strong CoH finish for Kalumba.

Pisstake Peg

O, as usual the view expresed in this magazine, or online, are the views of the author alone and do not neccessarily represent the views of the editor, people of Kalumba or those of the street selling monkeys of this fabled tome.

[Zwangzug]

The Spenson Star
The route to 66

It wasn't that long ago that a Zwangzug national sports team was playing in Maklohi Vai. [How long, though? -ed] I'll get there.

Let's try this again. The Zebras of baseball exited World Baseball Classic 27 in the quarterfinals, losing out to Milchama at Koropai Field. The national football team, however, will get another chance to succeed there, as they travel to open the World Cup 66 qualifying campaign.

It's Group 20 for Zwangzug; 20 out of 30, in fact, as only the group winners will progress to Audioslavia and/or The Inevitable Syndicate. Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, second seeds in the world ranks, will hope to be winning the group, but perhaps they can be challenged. By the Vaians, anyway. For Zwangzug's part, they should have an entertaining diversity of formations to take in, from the Cheveron to the Tidal Surge. And, for a change, the fans will get to take them in at five different stadiums! Even the FTC has gotten its act together [have gotten their act together? -ed], with the national team visiting both parks there.

A short look at our new faces, then. A listing that fails to include the managerial position, as Bridget Scroves returns once again despite suspicions that she'd be passed over for a bigger name [or a slightly shorter but more well-known one -ed].

Either way, it didn't happen. Oh well.

Up front; our third starting forward in as many tournaments! Yes, Loris Muraro-Ughi has been dropped, which means Khamisi McCluey of Rovers United will take over as the lone striker. Some of you may remember that McCluey, despite only just being called up for the Cup of Harmony, is in some ways the most experienced player on the team--in that he played against other national teams before any of they did. The Rovers participated at the World's Fair Play Trophy tournament, which featured all sorts of teams--national, collegiate, all-regional, barnstorming. Another edition of a similar tournament is expected to be announced soon; interested parties should keep their eyes peeled for more information. Peak'n'Break, having already delighted hungry Vegan fans, will be providing this tournament's official muffins.

You, too, can particiate in the celebration.

McCluey's promotion means that Arlo Rais-Sonnen will take over on the bench, as his FTC United continue improving to the point where they can challenge for Globe Cup positions.

Defensive midfield sees the retirement of Ted Silla-Raty, due to Twineur's erratic dropoff as much if not more than his erratic health. Shula Bachchan-Laum, who filled in for him during his illness last qualifiers, should be a competent replacement. This also skews the gender-positional demographic even further, with all four women in the nominal starting lineup now boxing in Davi Keane-Liuprand in the midfield. Given that the midfield tactics really do play to his strengths anyway, he'll be fine. New to the bench is Vera Woredann, who had a breakout season as part of Excelsior Slogda's successful campaign.

Similarly rewarded for Slogda's climb to victory is Bruce Millar, leapfrogging Emily Winters-Neumann to the number one jersey on the cutting-slash-retirement of Joshua Farthing. The e-Lipogram will mourn his specific talents far more than I can; in the meantime, it's enough to say he was a decent guy and a decent goalkeeper who was able to get cut-slash-retire in the normal course of things, and we should really all still be grateful for that. Dominik Topi takes over on the bench, becoming Trebuchet Cham's first representative after they finished an unprecedented not-last in the most recent season, the results of which will be made known at some time.

That's all the turnover, but only four of these eleven were normal starters two cycles ago. And there will be more changes down the line as time passes. Players get older. This is the way of things. It's why time has passed up to the present point, and we are currently in September 2013, waiting for the eleventh anniversary of the creation of the world as we know it. [You can't print that kind of thing. -ed] Why we are currently in springtime 2074, hanging out. [Stop it. -ed] Why we are, as always, the strange sort of fans that know more about gamma factors than goal kicks. [That just comes from living in Zwangzug. -ed]

Okay, I actually don't know when the first matchday is going to be. I can tell you, however, when it is definitely not, and that is in August of 2176. I've had to kowtow in corners to get where I am today, I've had to tiptoe around big egos and been scared into silence too many times to count. I might be nobody special, I probably am nobody special. But the heck am I going to kiss Starblaydi chronometer.

[Pasarga]

Torgos Tribune ~ More of the Same?

That's the question circling the pubs and internet chat rooms before this weekend's kickoff of the qualifiers for the World Cup, with the Wanderers having come off a successful hosting are back into the fray. The question is, will it be more of the same from last tournament, where they used their hosting advantage to secure their passage into the knockout stages of the competition, only the second time the Wanderers have ever made it that far in twenty cycles of competing. Or will it be more of the same from previous cycles where inconsistencies had them fall from a top 20 nation in the world to a outside the top 40 following their failed qualification attempt in World Cup 64 and from being unable to string together qualifications in the past.

For that matter, the manager has decided to take a gamble and retain the entire squad that was part of the last World Cup and Copa Rushmori squads. It's a risk, not even replacing some of the aging players of the squad, and giving just a sense of complacency. However it also has the chance to show that the chemistry and comraderity that was built up between this group of players during those two tournaments last cycle is enough to stamp out some of the faults of the squad. When the players know each other and the tendencies, they are able to augment each others games and cover each others flaws in a far better fashion. So is the hope of the Wanderers manager at any rate.

The qualifiers themselves are up for some shake ups, as the group sizes have been drastically cut down, resulting in not only a short qualifying campaign but also that only one nation advances from each group. There is some pros and cons to this, as the shorter campaign is definitely a welcome from the marathons of late, but it also means each result is magnified. With only one nation advancing, the margin for error become quite minimal, as each point is now a huge matter. With the likes of Milchama and the up and comers Sova Empire in their group, this does not seem advantageous for the Wanderers given their own past. Being one of the weaker first seeds was always going to make life difficult, but the group draw certainly has compounded the issue, handing them such stiff competition.

Given the composition of the group and the squad's own strengths, I expect to see games where the Wanderers are going to have to outscore their opponents to pull the points that will be needed to advance. This has got to be infuriating for the manager, who had said during the last World Cup of their desire to turn the side into a more defensive orientated unit. As much as she may wish it, it is the wing and striker play that has been the traditional Pasargan strength and it will take far more than two years to change that around. Her task should simply be on preparing the side mentally for each matchday, as it can ill afford to come into any match in the wrong mindset. While they will be favorites in all their matches bar the away match to Milchama, she has to make sure that the squad is ready to play, ready to perform up to their known quality or even better than that.

At the end of the day, I think that despite the challenges that both Milchama and Sova will give the Wanderers, it will be our side that manages to win the group and take the trip to Atlantian Oceania, where Audiosalvia or the Syndicate await. These are the building blocks of the future, the seeds to a better tomorrow if you will, and the Wanderers shall need to tend it deftly. For there is a bright and glorious future for those who make their own fortune and luck.

[New Montreal States]

The last time an Audioslavian had been hired as the NMS head coach, it had involved burly men with firearms, unmarked white vans and inter-regional grade helicopters. This hiring was entirely voluntary on both sides, and the only risk of injury was if Klimt got a paper cut during the act of depositing his paycheck. It was therefore much, much more expensive.

At least, thought Filon, Klimt wouldn't follow in William Branstone's footsteps by downing a pint of scotch and flinging it at the head of the first reporter to ask him a question.

He had, however, asked Filon to keep his hiring a secret until the very last second, and she had obliged him. The Paladins beat reporters had gotten an urgent e-mail at 10 P.M. the previous night informing that there would be an earth-shattering press conference at 9 A.M. the next morning. Klimt had said that this was because he didn't want the Audioslavian press attending the conference.

Filon had told him that he would eventually have to face them down. Klimt had agreed with her, but had said that he wanted to set the tone for his tenure in the Paladin Dome without having Jeremy Jaffacake or his sidekicks constantly interrupting him.

Klimt had explained this via e-mail: "If Jaffacake turns up, he's just going to try to make it all about him, like he's been doing since before your grandpa was a gleam in your great-grandpa's eye. He starts drinking at nine in the morning, and he's always trying to drive everyone he interviews into joining him. I'd like a word in edgewise for once." Filon was more than willing to oblige him.

Filon arrived backstage three minutes early, stopped, and fidgeted for three minutes while checking a nearby wall clock every fifteen seconds. Klimt - Coach Klimt now, she supposed - leaned back and smiled She faced the crowd of reporters at precisely 9 A.M.

"Mesdames et messieurs, thank you for coming out this morning. I'm delighted to introduce our new manager today. He's won two World Cups. Without further ado, Mr. Israel Klimt"

Mme. Filon finally achieved a goal she'd had ever since becoming Minister of Morale: make an entire room full of newspaper reporters skip a beat.

"Thank you, Madame Minister. And thank you all for coming out on such short notice. The entire history of the Paladins has consisted of coming up short in one way or another. I've been down that road once, and I'm here to bring the Paladins to the promised land."

"The Paladins can score goals. That's indisputable. And it's just as indisputable that they can't stop them, either. Just ask someone from Boring Paradise if you think otherwise. The farthest the 'States - did I pronounce the apostrophe right? (nods from around the room) - have ever gotten during their current stint of international play was last tournament. And that was when they were coached by a dirty hippie who took a bunch of acid and saw orange and blue defensive formations dance across his eyelids. I'm here to apply the same defensive principles that won the Bulls two AOCAFs and two World Cups and see how far that gets the Paladins."

"Also, I'm not done winning World Cups. I'd be delighted to take your questions. Up front, marigold blazer, Ms.-"

"Cindy Cuthbert-Evans, Moncton Sands Extremely Free Press. What led you to chose the Paladins over another side or a quiet retirement?"

"It's got everything I was looking for: tradition, a good team, devoted fans, and an FA with some backbone. And a press that consists of normal people, not vampires who draw their life energy from footballer's careers. Next question."

"Roman Berthelette, Journal Libre de Sorel. You quit in the middle of a game. What do you have to say for yourself about that?"

"I owe my players an apology, and I owe Bulls fans an apology. I should have done better by both groups and toughed it out, and it's something I'm going to have to live with. That said, I wasn't looking forward to a postgame flagellation, followed by a sacking at the hands of Audioslavia's FA, which is completely at the beck and call of the local media. The gentleman in the bright green polo."

"Alise Ducharme, Radio-Valdemont. Do you think we're all going to roll over at your command?"

"No. Of course not. What I am expecting, and what I've found out about your work since I was offered this job, is that you have a sense of perspective on things. I've read back issues of the New Montreal Presse-Journal Devoir, of the other big-city papers when they cover the World Cup, and they report what happened on the pitch, and then the columnists praise what's worth praising and trash what ought to be trashed. What they don't do is eat their own, shit it out and then go back for second helpings."

"John Smythe, Sporting Chonicle. Do you have any regrets about how things turned out in Audioslavia?"

"I wish I had stood up for my team and myself louder and sooner. I wish I'd tried to get the FA to put on their grown-up pants and not just do whatever the back pages tell them to. And I wish we'd won a third World Cup. I'm honored to have a second chance to achieve all these things. The chap with the old-timey dark gray fedora and matching mustache, up front."

"Jacques-Noel Beauchamp, New Montreal Presse-Journal Devoir. You're the only Audioslavian in the room right now. Why?

"They'll show up, or maybe they won't. I just wanted to have at least one peaceful day on the job. Jaffacake is the classic failed manager. Didn't he get to manage the side, once, way before any of the rest of us were born? And it was a bit of a shitshow then. Those who can, manage, and those who can't just try to get the managers fired."

"Danielle Beaupré, Presse Extremement Libre de Valdemont. What are your thoughts on the group?"

"I can't say I know that much about these teams. Barunia will give us a run for the money, though. They've gone through with their threats and given us 30 groups with one playoff spot apiece, so we're going to have to treat every game like it's Krytenia on the pitch. Erm, Milchama. Last question."

"Loretta Marchbanks, St. James Inquirer. Who will be your assistant?"

"Someone who can speak French. Thank you all for coming out this early. I'll be seeing all of you around later, I'm sure."

And Klimt made his way off the podium, as everyone in the room began engaging in the pointless, end-of-press conference hubbub that is a ritual at such events.

[Mangolana]

Mangolana Gazzette

Mangolana disappoints in friendlies, drawn against defending World Champion

The Mangolana national soccer team will have a very difficult time qualifying for the World Cup this time. Following a magical run through qualifying during World Cup 65, Mangolana, which was ranked in the 89th for the World Cup proper and was the lowest team in the rankings by a whopping 40 positions, does not look like a good bet to make it two straight trips to the proper as they have been drawn into group 15 with the defending World Cup Champions Wight. Mangolana based on their rise in the rankings from their performance last cycle had Mangolana in the second pot of teams drawn, which makes up of the 31st through the 60th ranked teams in the draw. Also in group 15 with Mangolana and Wight is rising nation Free South Califas along with Kintratar, Tarrigan, and Olastor. Not only is Mangolana's draw for the World Cup tough, but most hope that Mangolana could once again pull it off, went out the window with their Pre-Qualifying performances.

Mangolana began their Pre-Qualifying tour off on the right not as they hosted and defeated San Jose Guayabal by a 3-1 scoreline in front of the sold out Mangolanites Stadium crowd. The match also served as the first Mangolana national team match at Mangolanites Stadium, which serves as the home of Mangolana premier side Arsenrall and is also one of the biggest stadiums in Mangolana. Mangolana got the scoring going early in the game with Brett Mallon and Gregory Nena scoring goals at the 8th and 14th minutes respectively. San Jose Guayabal would claw a goal back just before half-time thanks to a Jonathan Faña Free-kick. Mangolana would continue their domination into the second half and would receive a third goal from second half sub Antonio Ventera to give Mangolana a 3-1 lead and win. Mangolana next two matches became extreme disappointments as they pulled back a goal in the final minutes of the match against Boring Paradise to draw the game 1-1 at Grego-Johnson Stadium. The goal was scored by Jordan Morgan, which marked his first with the national team in over 3 years. Mangolana would next play at Embassy Park in Edinburgh against Nouvel Ecosse. The match was once again one where Mangolana was forced to come from behind in, trailing 2-0 after 30 minutes of play. Mangolana would not get on the board until the 2 minute of injury time as Gregory Nena found a slot and fired the ball low and hard and into the net. Mangolana would equalize in the 76th minute with a goal from second half sub Shaun Line. Mangolana would continue to pry for a late winner, but to no evail as Mangolana drew Nouvel Ecosse 2-2, setting Mangolana into the World Cup qualifiers with two draws and one win, looking and hoping for another berth in the World Cup proper.

[Aslotten-Behtherborg sa Cesky]

OOC: Realized cutoff was hitting at an awful time for me, so this is being written in transit. As with my main, the quality here is lower than I'm aiming for. Waaaay lower, and apologies for that. I'm disappointed that it starts this way.

A Hastily Written World Cup 66 Preview
by Karol Ruvek, Ostrava Times

Starblaydia: There is no doubt that Starblaydia is the best team in the group, and certainly the most likely to advance. The best we can hope for is a draw, but even that seems out of reach. 0-1 points predicted.
Sicoutimont: A team not quite with the same prowess as Starblaydia, but a stalwart nonetheless, the Sicoutis provide a challenge to our national squad that may not be parallelled in its type. They play an even style of play, something that is not as common as you might think. Olsen likely will have to rally his troops a great deal in order to pull something out. 0-3 points predicted.
Estope: This is where we start to get a chance. While Estope is ranked decently, they are by no means a consistent team, and absolutely not on par with the top two seeds. They don't have great energy, so we should look to stay back and tire them out before attacking in the late stages of the match. Ultimately, it just comes down to who practicies harder, and ultimately that's us. 3-6 points predicted.
Fiendish Snackers: We have abolsutely no idea who this team is or where they came from. Baptism of Fire, sure, but nothing spectacular. Expect two easy wins from a squad that's much more talented and has a much greater work ethic. 6 points projected.
Eviscatomatoes: Baptism of Fire group casualties, our own group actually, they were easy both matches then. Now, with the benefit of experience on our side, two more wins should come. 6 points projected.

Overall, 15-22 points, not a bad showing for a new team. It should prepare us well to qualify for the next World Cup, and hopefully gain some sort of bid to the Cup of Harmony.

[Osarius]

Since officially taking over as national team manager last month, Jermain Lewis has wasted no time at all shaking things up. Taking a leaf out of the book of Aquilliano manager Alfredo Herrera, Lewis has insisted on the release of his "primary pool" on a regular basis for training excursions. These excursions are extremely unpopular with leading club sides, who feel that Lewis' extraordinary drive is pushing their best players too hard.

"It's just not right that we're forced to release our top players when they don't have an important international match to be playing in. They come back to us fatigued, and it adversely affects performance" said Trothwands Evolution manager Jonathan Herd, one of the most fervent opponents to Lewis' methods. "For a smaller squad like ours, this can dramatically affect our chances at the title. It's not right."

Others would point out that Herd's dilemma stems from the fact that he has four players in Lewis' elite selection. Effectively, this makes them one of the best teams in the country. Arcaea County manager, and former teammate of Lewis, Orlando Florian, was quick to make this point. "It's not a big problem. Of course, I don't have four or five internationals leaving to train with the national team, but I think this kind of sacrifice is necessary if we want to be the best in the world. I'd love to be in a position where half of my starting eleven are so good, they're being called up to international duty."

Lewis himself remains unfazed. Of his "primary pool" -- which he defines as "the thirty-five elite players that would likely make up my preliminary finals squad" -- almost half play for clubs managed by former teammates or people he is close with. He has encountered no resistance from any of them. His former Firewood City teammate, and eventual replacement as captain (for both club and country), Benni Watson, currently manages Hastmead Diamante. The Diamonds have released a whopping six members of their squad to Lewis' excursions, and it has had a noticeable effect on their league and cup form. Watson, however, refuses to make excuses. "Of course it's tougher, but that's the whole point. We work really hard on youth development here, and having senior players unavailable at times means you have to prepare the younger ones to step up and fill the gaps. It means we can't afford to waste three or four years of a young player's development loaning him or her out to Duchess League sides. We need him or her ready to play Golden League football as soon as possible."

Watson's commentary has some merit. The reigning champions of the Golden League are Utica United. The club with the most prestigious youth academy and reserve team in the country. In fact, even the senior squad has a heavily youth-centric policy; very rarely are players retained beyond their 28th birthday. Utica's success can be attributed to the less noticeable drop in quality when their star players were off on an international excursion. Lewis' methods had been unofficially in place for the majority of last season, while he was acting Osarius boss, and saw the Firebirds absolutely dominate the revived Rabastor Trophy -- even more brutally than they had been expected to -- with a squad made up almost entirely of Utica, Hastmead and Firewood players. While Hastmead's smaller squad struggled a little during the season, Utica and Firewood were the top two in the league, and were both finalists in one each of Osarius' two domestic cup competitions.

Hall-of-Famer and former Osarius boss Alain Montblanc, who is now Chairman and Head of Football Development at the Osarian Football Association, praised Jermain Lewis' "bravery" in trying to implement a controversial, yet hugely beneficial system for Osarian football. In the absence of serious competition and truly strong opposition thus far, however, it remains to be seen how long the OFA will back up their man. One thing is certain, every mistake this side makes will be scrutinized mercilessly.

[Equestrian States]

World Cup 66 Qualifying: Group 12 Preview
by Steve McNotapony

Well, another World Cup qualifying campaign is about to begin. So who's the favorite we've got to upset to qualify this time? What's that? We're the top seed? Oh, sweet Celestia, you've got to be joking...

Yes indeed, hoofball fans, the Equestrian States is a top seed in qualifying for the first time in history, and it sure is a good thing that they are, given the format this time around. Audioslavia and The Inevitable Syndicate (yes them, that team we faced last year) successfully won the hosting rights with a rather peculiar 30 groups of 6 format in which the group-winners qualify and everybody else gets to watch the World Cup from the sofa. But with 30 groups, this also meant Pot 1 would contain 30 teams, and the Ponies' top 25 ranking ensured them of a place as the top seeds.

The Equestrian States had a good run as the underdogs, only failing to do better than their seeding suggested in their first campaign over eight years ago. In the 60th World Cup, the Ponies smashed their way into the playoffs for the first time, narrowly missed them a year later, and haven't finished lower than second in their group ever since. Last year, the Equestrian States won their group, edging a declining Bears Armed team for the automatic berth in the finals. But this year, a group title is the only thing that can get a team into the World Cup. Granted, the Ponies never did qualify via the playoffs, so their omission is hardly seen as a hindrance, but it still removes the margin of error many have taken for granted in years past.

For the first time, there will be no room for mistakes, and by no means is the Equestrian States safe from their opponents. The groups may be smaller, but the challenge of qualifying is still there and the lower seeds will be eying upsets with a lustful gaze; upsets the Ponies cannot afford to concede.

Who will the Equestrian States face in the upcoming campaign? And what are their chances of succeeding in stunning the Ponies? Let's take a quick look...

#317 - Colombian Britannia
Well, well, well; look who the rabid dog dragged in. Yep, it's Colombian Britannia, a nation Equestrian fans know as being full of speciesist referees who don't know the first thing about officiating matches with sapient ponies involved. The Equestrian States faced Colombian Britannia shortly before the latter went off to play in the Baptism of Fire, and thanks to a number of highly-questionable calls by the local referees, the match finished as a 0-0 draw. But now, CB will face the Ponies under different circumstances. Colombian Britannia was eliminated from the Baptism of Fire in the group stage, and as such has a rather miserable ranking outside of the top 300, one place lower than the Equestrians' ranking after their own Baptism of Fire. With no help from their own referees, the Ponies fielding a better team than in their last meeting, and one match being played in Cloudsdale, CB could very well find themselves on the losing end of at least one massacre. Two wins are expected here for the Ponies.

#304 - Alkoul
Quick question: Does anypony remember Alkoul? No? Let me enlighten you then... Back when the Equestria Cup was still a regularly-running regional championship, Alkoul participated in the second edition and disappeared from public view after the Equestrian reserves defeated them 2-1 in the group stage. Now Alkoul is back, and making little to no impact on the international community once again. Another Baptism of Fire debutant, Alkoul did slightly better than Colombian Britannia, though still failing to advance to the second round. Precious little is known about the team from Alkoul, though what is public knowledge isn't anything to scare the Equestrian supporters. Another pair of victories should be the end result of the Ponies' matches against them.

#203 - Welsh Cowboy
What do you know? Another team with a short history against squads from the Pony Lands! Welsh Cowboy also made its debut in the last Baptism of Fire, but did considerably better than those mentioned earlier, winning the tournament. Along the way, the so-called "Roaring Dragons" defeated the Crystal Empire 1-0 in the semifinals to earn their berth in the final. Welsh Cowboy has faced teams with sapient equines in the past, and as such the Equestrians will not have the shock value that they sometimes have when playing teams for the first time. But the Ponies are also much better than any team the Baptism of Fire champs have faced in the past, and have to play their first match against the Equestrians here on the very first day of qualifying. The Equestrian States should be able to win both matches against Welsh Cowboy, but cannot take anything for granted.

#103 - Iturributa
Seriously? Iturributa is only ranked 103rd in the world? Wow. You'd think they'd be higher with such a well-known domestic league... Ah well. The third seed in Group 12 is none other than Iturributa, where unicorn forward Pristina Shine recently became the first female and the first non-human to play in the Iturributan league for none other than famous Iturributa United. Pristina Shine could very well be given the nod to start against the Iturributans, as she is familiar with their style. But familiarity is a two-sided blade, which could also backfire against the Ponies. And with the "Albatrosses" drawing players from a deep well of talent in Iturributa, the Equestrian States will surely face a fierce challenger here. Optimists might give the Equestrians two narrow wins, but I don't consider myself to be among them. A win at home and a draw on the road are the most likely results in my eyes.

#52 - Northern Sunrise Islands
Oh, you've got to be kidding me... Rounding out a group familiar to Equestrian supporters is the Northern Sunrise Islands. No foreign league has more players from the Equestrian States in it than the Sunrisian League, where six Equestrians regularly are among its best players. There will be no shortage of scouting footage for the Vaporeons, and the only Sunrisian international to feature in the United League is their third-string goalkeeper, Mellody Sioux. The Ponies will face a stiff challenge from the Northern Sunrise Islands, intent on qualifying for the nation's first finals. Personally, I see these matches going either way, so: a win and a loss for the Equestrian States against the second seed.

#22 - Equestrian States
The Equestrian States will face a slew of recognizable challengers in their qualifying campaign, none of which can they take lightly. Though the Ponies may be the favorites, it is not by a large margin. I do expect the Equestrians to win the group in the end, but it will be close. Just like every other qualifying campaign the Ponies have been in. If the team starts to slip into complacency, they will do no better than the Cup of Harmony this year. Given the Equestrians' less-than-admirable history in that tournament, it's a fate I would like to avoid.

[German American States]

The German American Broadcasting Corp., the #1 radio and TV provider in the GAS presents a series about each state in the country. Next up is Mannefeld.

Mannefeld

Mannefeld is the second-smallest state in the German American States, lying just north of Milwaukeesburg. Due to its small square mileage, there are not many people that live here, except in Strafenburg, the state's main population center and capital. Strafenburg is a largely industrial city, and has been since the country's founding. In 1902, a wealthy business, Hoffman Ltd. & Co., a well known developer and factory construction company, made several deals with large businesses at the time to build factories in Strafenburg due to the system of railways that converges at Strafenburg. They set to building the factories right away, and in 5 years immigrants and others from all over the country flocked to Strafenburg in pursuit of new opportunities and jobs.

One of the new industries that opened up factories in Strafenburg was meat packing. The railroad cars came very quickly from Kaesedorf and Weisenfield, so meat packing sprung up. Meat packing is and was such a big industry in Strafenburg that they renamed it from Mannendorf to Strafenburg in 1943 to honor it. At one point, meat packing employed over half of the city. In the recent years however, meat packing has seen a fall in employment because of new health and safety laws that made meat more expensive.

Another big industry in the city is arms manufacturing. After the so called "Gun Rush Act" made guns more available than ever, gun manufacturing went through the roof. From handguns to hunting rifles to ammunition, it became one of the main contributors to industry in Mannefeld and Strafenburg.

Despite this however, Mannefeld and Strafenburg are in decline. Long gone are the days of the Gengenbach & Suedland Land Rush of 1908, where settlers needed farming equipment and trucks to settle, and with the increase of public transportation, cars have become less popular. Also, other manufacturers are springing up elsewhere in the country, like Eisenport and Gunwhale Pier in Milwaukeesburg. Strafenburg is being slowly but surely abandoned, with the population down from 1 mil. to 800,000 in the past decade.

However, football is flourishing in Strafenburg. The previous reigning club of the city, Strafenburg 26, is falling in the tables, and lowly Die Kirchestrasse 11(DK11) is gaining in their skill and support. All is not lost for this great city.

Extra: Map of the German American States

[San Jose Guayabal]

OOC: Sorry if I break cut off time (Time affected me a lot)

Matchday 1 vs Ilovebenderdotcomland:

SJG has been prepared with all the strength for this match, it is always important to win the first game and start on the right foot, against an opponent that is easy in theory but not in practice know, Ilovebenderdotcomland is a virtually unknown opponent worldwide football, making play unpredictable what will be your approach and attack, which is always useful to know to put together a good outline of attack, but what is certain is the support of 180,000 people supporting the SJG NT (in the Estadio Nacional Vladivostok-Alianza at 8:25 PM SJG Time) with all their heart and lungs ready to scream SJG!

Final Prediction: 5-1 wins SJG

Matchday 2 vs Yesopalitha:

This is a rival with some force, something for SJG is played at Estadio Cuscatlan (El Monumental) with the backing and support of 163,000 people attending early (Party will be at 7:45 PM Time of SJG) , we know that they have a rather strong approach with good players, but SJG already has a scheme that will decrypt the tactical approach sternly and forcefully.

Result. SJG 2-1 Yesopalitha

God Bless you NT, and remember: Plus Ultra!

[The Inevitable Syndicate]

Alright guys, this is it... the cutoff for Matchday 1 of the 66^th World Cup has arrived!

Scores Thread

[Polar Islandstates]

Week One

It was the way he didn't even seem to pause for thought before throwing himself off the edge that unnerved me the most, I think.

I mean, of course, you hear about the mental toil this job can take on you, but as far as introductions to the job go, seeing your superior engineer go the same way as the guy you're replacing went, from your helicopter flight on the way in no less, has to be one of the more extreme.

I didn't even want the job, but Dad suggested I do something that means I get to stay working outdoors. I just couldn't do that office life anymore. After playing for Kerrisgorforth in the Seasogs championship, nothing ever comes close to that amount of excitement again. Sure, it was only two games at international level, and sure my injury saw to my prospects after that anyway, but it's still a high that you have a hard time forgetting. Even seeing my little brother Moses make his debut for the Terns wrenched at my heart evilly. I'm proud of him, and so happy for him, but there's always going to be this part of me wishing it had been me who'd gotten as far as representing my country.

Fired from three office jobs in the last year, Dad finally suggested I do something with my hands. So, here I am. Sat on the squeaky cabin bed in my cramped quarters on board the Hoyhusoy. Six months of training and qualifications for this. Seems hardly worth it. The walls are wipe clean. The floor is bare concrete. The window is barred shut. I can hear everything that's going on down the corridor and I've already seen one guy kill himself.

His name was Robert Jonsson. Apparently. I was speaking to Johan once we landed, my escort on the chopper, and according to him Jonsson hadn't been himself for weeks. Still doesn't make it any less weird though. As we were flying in towards the looming hulk of the Hoyhusoy, floating patiently besides one of the giant masts we're meant to be applying blades to, I could pick out a figure climbing onto the roof of the bridge. I had assumed it was one of the sailors, engineers and sailors leading generally separate lives on board most wind farm rigs, and I only found out I was wrong later. At the time, the figure just climbed up, took a few steps backwards, and then ran towards the edge. No sprinting urgently, but at the same time there was no hesitancy. Just a casual steady jog. He reached the end, and as if it was a slow motion scene from a film, we watched the minute speck of humanity plunge off the edge and into the choppy waves of the blue abyss.

Nobody on the boat even noticed.

We rang in the alert from the chopper, but by the time anyone appeared on the scene with a life ring, there was no sign of life at all. We got closer, landed on the rolling deck of the ship, and I had my first experience of the Hoyhusoy filling out witness forms and incident report sheets, though to call a suicide an 'incident' hardly seems appropriate.

Now Jonsson's jumped there's nobody to give me my induction or sign my safety certificates, either. At least, not until one of the other shift leaders has a spare hour or two under the regulation shift quotas allowed to go through things with me. Just sat doing nothing until then. Bored. I went to the mess hall, and the recreation room.

Both were empty.

Jesper.

←Prev - Next→

[Mytannion]

This is the first of three role-plays that will conclude the storyline that I began last World Cup cycle. I have enjoyed writing this immensely and I hope those who have stuck with it from the start have enjoyed reading it too. If you are new to the story, I advise you to begin from the start, it won't make any sense unless you do and will simply look ridiculous (insinuating it isn't already, I know). The links below catalogue every single role-play in the story. Thanks.

Part One.
Part Two.
Part Three.
Part Four.
Part Five.
Part Six.
Part Seven.
Part Eight.
Part Nine.
Part Ten.

“Thanks a lot Kitzbuhel, you smashed it tonight!” I said, throwing my tambourine into the crowd and walking to the left side of the stage and clapping. The crowd had been fucking mental and we had been supporting The Switch. This would do wonders for our career but I didn’t really mind following that. This was enough. If we didn’t do another gig following that I could die a happy man. My father would be proud I knew that much. Both him and the crowds we played to deserved just as much credit as we did for our success, is what I believed.

They were both integral to it.

I congratulated the other side of the stage with a few seconds of clapping and then walked off the stage, The Switch would follow us and they’d have a job of it too. The headliners of a show are usually meant to be the ones who get the reception we got after playing, but I’m not sure a crowd of 16,000 could get much louder than they had been following our performance of ‘Resurrection’. Stefan’s solo on guitar had been completely ad lib.

He hadn’t told us about it, he just burst into it following the end of the usual song. He carried on for about three minutes and both Laz and Polak joined in too. The song stretched out from three minutes to eight minutes, the chiming guitar and bass keeping the song going as Laz did an incredible drumming solo I didn’t even know he had in him.

It was massive, mega, no other word for it. Fuckin’ incredible man. The crowd loved it as well, dancing along in a trance like state as we continued our set for a good ten minutes longer than we were supposed to (we had already ran over by the time we had started playing Resurrection, but who the fuck cared about that). I can’t say that The Switch themselves were too pleased, but we didn’t care at all. We went back stage, didn’t watch their performance, got hammered and hung out with a couple of other bands and some girls. I’m not sure we can call them ‘groupies’ anymore, doesn’t sound very fucking cool does it? Nah.

Polak was getting very close to one of them very quickly. That boy Polak is a smooth operator, let me tell you and he was in there within minutes. You could see it happening, his classic tactics, they were all set out quickly and they worked like a well oiled machine once again. Me and Stefan began taking bets on how long it’d be until they left the room to pursue a few ‘other activities’ somewhere a little quieter. I won the bet, Stefan handed me a fifty Corun note.

“Where the fuck did you get that la’?!” I exclaimed in surprise, he hadn’t said he was putting that much on it, or even that he had ever – had – that kind of money! I snapped it off him as quickly as I could and he grinned. He knew the score, evidently. He had gone behind our backs or something, I could see from the look on his face. It wasn’t even important though, I didn’t care that we weren’t present in whatever he had organised or sorted out. He’d done well, that was evidenced by the roll of cash he had pulled out of his pocket.

“Well mate, let’s say I didn’t waste any time in organising something with the record label.” He said and I clapped him on the shoulder, normally I’d be well pissed off, but the fact I was pissed probably helped a fair bit. Stefan wasn’t the sort who had a good business brain, who’d have earned us plenty of money but he seemingly had managed it.

“How much? What for? I don’t get it mate.” I said, simply, for once our positions were reversed – I was confused about something and Stefan had to do the explaining for me. I mean, I understood that some sort of deal had been struck, but for an album? For some gigs? For performing before The Switch? What for? I didn’t understand. What bugged me more than anything though was the fact Stefan had managed this himself, jammy sod, he’d really pulled it out of the bag and when the other pair heard about it they’d welcome him as a hero.

“Shhh.” He said, glancing around, “Keep it quiet mate. We’re gonna be massive. The fella told me that we need to keep it quiet because we’re going to do a big release of it all. He told me that if people knew about our money and shit they’d be straight onto us, ‘keep going purely for the fame at the moment, it’ll suit you’se better’ is what he told me.”

“Ah, right, so money mate, talk to me.” I had a mind for one thing, my songs about red stars and not selling my soul seemed to have gone out of the window. But this was huge, this fifty Corun note was more money than I had ever seen in my whole life. I was sure my family had never had this sort of money lying around and now Stefan was using fifties to bet! Madness.

“Fucking shut up will ya.” Stefan said shortly, a brief look of anger flashing across his face, “It’s a fair bit trust me, we’re gonna be rich man. I know it. But first we need to record the album for these fuckers and then we need to go do a tour of some sort. I don’t know the full score but the fucker gave me a briefcase full of cash – ten thousand Coruns Svet!”

“The fuck?!”

“Yeah mate, no word of a lie, it’s at home now, dipped into it a bit of course – bought some new shoes for my sister and gave Laz some money to buy food for his lot, felt sorry for him, having to look after all those siblings because of his Mum.”

“Yeah fair enough la’.” I sat back and whistled, “Ten thousand Coruns?!” I shouted in surprise again, whistling a second time.

“I know pal, I had the same reaction.” He said, then looked at me straight in the eyes, seriousness creeping across his face like a dark shadow, “I want to donate some to give your Pa a proper headstone you know, for his grave. It’s the band’s money after all, we’re not taking personal wages or whatever. It’s for all of us and I think the band should give something back to your Pa.”

“Seriously man?” I asked, of course I’d like to accept it, it was a nice idea but it wasn’t really the right thing to do to just jump and accept it. I’d have to ask Mum as well and Silvana, their thoughts would be valued massively. “I don’t know, it’d be sick yeah but I’ll have to speak to Mum and stuff y’know.”

“Trust me man, I know Polak and Laz would agree one hundred per cent on this.”

“Yeah. They probably do mate, but still, not just my call is it.” I said, “Thanks though, I’m sure they’ll be pleased and it might even bring Silvie to forgive Laz,” I laughed. Stefan did as well, he pulled out a cigarette paper from his pocket and then a small packet from the other. Weed. The drugs don’t work, they just make you worse. I didn’t know why I was already considering taking a drag from his spliff when he had constructed it all. I suppose it’s just the rock and roll lifestyle, really, it infects you – your every fibre of being sort of pulls you into it and doing things that are a part of it.

“Learned this from Polak, he’s a fucking genius man, no idea how he learned it so quickly. I do suppose his brother is a proper stoner though. Absolute waster i’n’t he if you think about it.”

“Ah, dunno man, does his own thing doesn’t he.”

“Diplomatic as ever la’,” replied Stefan as he lit up and took a long drag and then a long, deep inhalation. He sighed with happiness, “’Ere, take some.” He said, holding the spliff out for me. I considered it for a few moments, if I took it it probably wouldn’t have all that much effect. I was completely used to it and had used it fairly regularly with Polak. But I was feeling delicate and my experiences after using the crack had potentially put me off illicit drugs forever. Stefan thrust the spliff further towards me.

“Fuck it.” I said and then proceeded to take a drag from the spliff and I mimicked Stefan, inhaling deeply. I coughed a little, first time I’d done that in a while. The effects hit me instantly – it was the first time that that had happened in a while too – Stefan had a relaxed grin appear on his face. I lay back and took another drag, relaxation flooded over me and I didn’t even move as too girls in ludicrously short dresses came over and sat with us. I pretty much could see their arses. Not much self-respect, obviously. Or they just weren’t as well paid as the big name models who dressed well no matter what.

I looked one over, redhead, she was. Skinny enough, seems like more had cottoned on to the whole look that was in right now. She had an interesting face to be fair, angular cheekbones, a pointed chin. It was a... small face. Strange way to describe it yeah but it was, looked good though I suppose. I had Alina though, didn’t fucking need no one else. Stefan was straight onto the blonde who had joined him on the old, worn out sofa he was sat on. A little disappointing really, I had nobody to wager with on how long it’d take him to get in there.

I passed the redhead the spliff. She gratefully took it and inhaled, people were still milling around us and we could hear the sounds of the gig pounding through the backstage area. Nobody seemed to pay us any notice though, even if we had just played to 16,000 people and had fucking killed it. We’d signed what sounded like a fairly lucrative deal with a record company and yet we still appeared fairly anonymous, only being bothered by two girls. I suppose they were doing it on purpose though, not bothering us so as to not get the same reaction as they might get off other bands for that sort of thing.

She looked across at me and smiled, I gave what felt like an absolute gurn right back to her and this elicited a little giggle from her, confirming my fears that I had probably just given her a facial expression akin to that employed regularly by someone who is a little bit of a maniac. She edged a little closer to me though, seemingly unfazed by the facial expression I had pulled mere seconds before.

“You were great out there you know,” she said, taking another drag and blowing the smoke out. Unorthordox sure, but hot... Oh yes. It always got me when Alina did it, this girl was fairly similar I suppose. “You guys are so fucking hot when you get going, my friend really liked him,” she pointed across to the girl who was now combined with Stefan, they had seemingly formed one person and were intertwined it what seemed to be the most uncomfortable position I could have ever imagined. They didn’t seem too bothered though.

“Ah right...” I replied, not too sure of what to say, “So, what’s your name?” I asked, trying to start something to let Stefan have his time and to try and get somewhere myself. Alina wasn’t here, we weren’t too serious about each other anyway, it was all casual with her. She wouldn’t care even if she – did – find out, but she wouldn’t anyway, so it was all great. Even Laz had fucking pulled, I had to try and save face, even if it meant undoing some of the work I had done to get as far as I had with Alina.

“Mila.” She replied. “I don’t really need to ask yours.” She laughed, “We’ve seen you at every single gig you have played you know?”

“What? All five..?” I laughed and she did too and the conversation went on like this for a little longer, both of us having a good laugh – sometimes at the expense of our respective friends and at others it was at different stuff, we were getting closer, both literally and in the other, emotional manner. It seemed to mainly be her edging nearer to me though and at times I wasn’t sure whether I wanted what seemed to be inevitable outcome of this or not. I really couldn’t tell and this time it was definitely nothing to do with the alcohol or drugs, I hadn’t drank much and I was so used to weed by this point that it was beginning to have little to no effect beyond a mild feeling of relaxation. I didn’t feel that much different than normal.

I felt alarmed by something, but I couldn’t tell what. It was as if something was happening, a chain of events had been set off by someone and I couldn’t stop it. Stefan was all over this girl’s friend, this girl – the redhead – was edging closer to me and had fiercely tried to engage me in conversation for a good twenty minutes. Polak had seemingly already done his thing with a third girl and was now sat with us with said girl in a similar locked-in state as Stefan was with the Mila’s friend. Even Laz was with someone!

I couldn’t tell what exactly was going on, but it all seemed highly planned and rehearsed, scripted. Something was going on. I just couldn’t put my finger on it. As I had been deep in thought, not focusing in the slightest on what Mila was saying and just murmuring the occasional assent to make it appear that I actually was concentrating on her every word. I couldn’t hack droning girls and although she probably wasn’t, I had other concerns going through my head. Whatever it was that was going on, I didn’t fucking like it.

It was a weird feeling, slightly indescribable; it was as if we were under surveillance. I could feel someone’s eyes on me, from somewhere – something was happening and I felt highly uncomfortable – scrutiny wasn’t very much fun and I suppose people in the music industry were very regularly but it was strange. I couldn’t see anyone who looked unusual, people were walking past us all the time – milling around, going to the stage, running with instruments and drinks and all manner of other stuff was going on around us. I just felt... strange, weird, uncomfortable.

Mila was pretty much on my knee by this point. She had edged closer and closer and her simpering tone was beginning to get annoying, if I was honest, even if I wasn’t fully listening. She was sat so close and her voice had changed a little, it was a little huskier. More gravelly. She was whispering in my ear and one half of me wanted to recoil and the other half just wanted to give into the drink that was in my system, even if it wasn’t in as high an amount as I was used to when I was either grafting or getting grafted at an event such as this.

Mila put her hand on my face, almost cupping it in my hand, turning it to her and she looked at me. Something was fucking going on! Then she moved in closer and I didn’t know whether to jerk away or not, I didn’t have time to make my choice – by the time I was actually making my decision her lips were already locked onto mine and I was struggling to move away. A camera flashed and then there was a cheer from someone.

I fucking knew something was going on! Fucking media. A photographer or some journo had snapped the photo, with all four of us with a girl in some manner or another and there would be some headline screaming some ridiculous thing in a newspaper or a music magazine tomorrow. Fuck’s sake. Alina would see it too, things always did seem to get worse and just the wrong time. I was sober enough to realise that this thing was taking a shine off the gig we had just pulled off, I felt awful inside. It was guilt. I’d proved Alina’s parents right as well. Shit.

The other lads were having fun and I wasn’t about to stop them, let them have their fun. I felt shit though, I was empty inside. It could genuinely have been a lack of food – but it was more an emotional thing and for the first time in a long time, the thing that had left me empty wasn’t my Pa. That was a good thing I suppose. Glass half-full and all that. Well yeah, but Alina being in a mood with me was pretty shit in itself, they weren’t on the same level obviously but it was awful when Alina was in a mood. It wasn’t like other girls, or even other people in general. She had her own way and it made you feel tiny, it made you feel really fucking bad. The worst thing? She didn’t even intend to make you feel this way, she wasn’t malicious.

I got up and walked out, I wasn’t sure where we were meant to be staying or what the next thing was for us. Stefan seemed to know what was going on, which was a first in itself, but ah well, this was his big thing really.

...


“What the fuck is that?!” Alina slammed the magazine on the pillow next to me, a popular music magazine, plastered on the front cover was a photo of us. The band. The Aurora. Each of us with a girl, bottles lying around us and one of the girls holding what looked suspiciously like a spliff in between her fingers. Fuck. I could have predicted this. It was amazing how quickly we had become popular, become known. I mean, six months ago and we were completely unknown – now the whole of Thessia pretty much knew who we were and people from all over the show had listened to us. Mental.

“Alina, it was set-up...” I sighed, not really wanting to argue with her and not feeling in the best of moods to be able to explain myself to her either. I just wasn’t in the mood – perhaps I had drank more than I thought I had the night before – my head was certainly complaining, anyway. Alina wasn’t impressed with my answer though, she glared at me, she was fuming, furious, really angry.

“Set-up? What are you on about? How can somebody set that up? You’re all over each other, I can’t fucking believe you!”

“Alina,” I sighed again, this was all too much for me, my head was pounding now. I really had drank more than I believed I had, “They had cameras all over the room and they plied us with drinks and the girls spoke to us loads and it just happened. I tried to avoid it but she was pretty forceful,” I chuckled a little.

Wrong move.

“Svet just shut up, uhhhh, you are so frustrating.” She said, seemingly breaking off and having the last word on the discussion and then suddenly starting up again: “Why didn’t you just walk away? Especially if you knew it was a set-up or whatever! You didn’t have a clue, you were wasted when you got home and fair enough yeah you’d just played a massive gig or whatever but you got home at like seven in the morning and you were still smashed. That’s after a four, five hour train journey from Kitzbuhel.” I didn’t really want to break her off, that’d be a dangerous move, especially as she was in full flow and showing no sign of letting up any time soon whatsoever. “You were just smashed, didn’t have a clue what you were doing and kissed... kissed whatever that is.” She spat the final words with such venom that I nearly jumped away from her, the aggression was dripping from her. I was actually a little scared.

What reply could I realistically come up with? The situation was so obviously set-up but Alina seemed to care more than I had thought she would. I didn’t really want her to see it, but that was more for my own ulterior motives anyway. I didn’t want her to see it so that if she did have genuine feelings for me this wouldn’t cloud that. But her reaction was a little more... I don’t even know, aggressive? It doesn’t seem to be the right word for the situation. It was just more than I expected. I didn’t expect her to be so bothered by it, but she was, she was angered by it and she was pretty much letting fly at me in a manner I hadn’t really seen before. Not directed at me, anyway.

“I can’t really say much to you, Alina.” I said. She instantly spluttered, seeming to want to scream at me straight off the bat, every single time I opened my mouth. I stopped her though, ignoring her protest and carried on with what I was going to say in the first place. “Look, I know what went on, whatever state I was in. It was hazy yeah, but they had it set-up, I know that. She came onto me and I pulled away as quick as I could. Believe what you like, I’m going back to sleep.” I said, pulling the duvet over my head again and she thumped the magazines into me – to no real effect given the duvet between me and them, but I was hardly going to say anything the mood she was in.

“Fame’s fucking gone to your head already,” She muttered as she left the room. My heart pounded faster. Fuck that. I couldn’t take people saying that sort of thing and I instantly reacted, throwing the duvet off me and jumping up off the bed as she moved out of the room.

“What the fuck are you on about?! First thing you blame it on is that? It doesn’t even make sense Alina, I don’t understand how you can even say that. If it had gone to my head, surely I wouldn’t be here. Surely I’d be off somewhere, flashing cash and getting high every minute of the day or something.”

“Why – are – you here?” She said harshly.

“Wha– What?” I couldn’t formulate a proper response, what was she trying to say.

“You heard me, why are you still here? You were only meant to be here for a short time, you weren’t meant to make it your second home and stay here for weeks and weeks. Or is it just convenient for you to come back to somewhere where there’s a girl waiting for you? Is it too much effort for you to go out every night so you just come back to me?”

“Alina, what? What are you talking about?”

She laughed. It wasn’t her usual exclamation, laced with happiness and fun, it was hollow. An empty laugh. It was completely different. “I feel neglected Svet,” She said, sniffling. Please don’t cry, I thought, whatever you do please don’t cry. I couldn’t deal with girls crying. I’d rather deal with the fucking dibble on a daily basis. No really.

She continued, the sniffles occurring more and more regularly. “I just feel like you don’t care, you go off and do gigs and whatever and after everything that’s happened I just feel like shit.” She started to cry and I pulled her close and she buried her head into me.

What could be done?

...

There were times when I nearly became depressed again you know, Alina seemed to care more about what I did on one occasion than about her own feelings. Her own feelings didn’t seem to come into account at all. To me, from my position, from the outside looking in at her feelings – it seemed as if she was taking it all too casually herself. Of course, her reaction to what I had done should have suggested otherwise but it was just different for her. She didn’t seem bothered largely, day-to-day she just treated me the same as anybody else.

Stefan came to me a few days later with a proper interesting story though, apparently Alina had come to him and discussed things. I instantly felt possibly the most awkward I had ever felt in any situation. This was my best mate, Stefan Zimmer, a lad I’ve known pretty much since I was born coming to me and talking to me about a conversation with a girl who he liked, who happened to like me and was discussing that very subject with him. All very complicated I know but in easier terms he likes Alina and she likes me. Tough for him, but apparently he put this aside and had a proper discussion with her... about me.

He told me the bare basics though and said I needed to discuss it with Alina, which I did – and I didn’t feel quite as bad then.

“I told him how I feel about you Svet and he said I should go for it.”

“Go for what, exactly?”

“Us. Together.” My heart thumped a little harder. Stefan must have been heartbroken when he had had this discussion with Alina. He really must have been. We all knew how he felt about Alina, all the lads, he was fucking crazy for her and I often felt guilty because of how I carried on with her in such a non-serious, casual manner when if he had his way he’d treat her perfectly. Of course, I don’t think he knew how I actually felt about Alina either, though I imagined he was finally getting some sort of idea on the topic.

“I do have feelings for you Svet. I don’t know why you haven’t believed me, I mean, who’d put up with some of the shit you’ve put on me?” She said and the penny dropped a little, I’d been a whole lot dumber than I believed I was, “We’ve both been stupid about this, I know, we’ve both treated it too... casually. But that’s okay now, we can make it right.” She put her hand on my cheek and it wasn’t like when Mila did it, after the gig in Kitzbuhel. Warmth flowed through and emotion as well, it was amazing.

Sent to me from heaven, Alina Arnhaev, you’re my world.

That night was the best one of my life.

[Welsh Cowboy]

The sunlight almost blinded Ian as it poured through his bedroom window, signaling that it was time to arise and leave the lovely, dreamy land of sleep. Groaning with the effort, he rolled himself out of bed, rubbing his eyes wearily and looking around in an attempt to orient himself in the day.

After several seconds of self-pity and muttered insults to everyone he could think of, Ian hobbled out of his single bedroom and into the living room, turning on the lamp that stood by his couch for no other reason than sheer habit. Still groggy and unsure of his footing, he shuffled like an old man into the kitchen, where he turned on the coffee maker and waited for the wake-up call he truly needed. He turned around and looked to the front door, or indeed, the only door in the apartment. The delivery boy had evidently been diligent this morning, for usually he only delivered the weekly Sports Register hours late, if at all (in the last two months, Ian had received only 4 issues), but this Saturday, he'd decided to fulfill the terms of his employment.

This train of thought occupied enough time that Ian could retrieve the cup of coffee that sat tantalizingly underneath the machine and bring the soothing aroma to his lips, where he drank as if he was able to partake of the fountain of youth. Alas, he wasn't in heaven, as after standing there in solitary bliss for several seconds, he looked down at the clock that he placed on his kitchen counters, and nearly spit out his drink. He had less than 20 minutes to get to the field, or else he might miss the start of the match and end up stuck on the end of the bench, watching as other players took his shots, collected his passes, and went to the ground to perform his tackles.

The coffee was placed on the countertop, half-consumed and still releasing seductive waves of angelic, sensory-pleasing aroma. Ian raced back into his bedroom, laid out his team kit, with its lime green shirt, white shorts, and red socks, before grabbing the one good towel he owned and dashing into the adjoining bathroom, where he soaked up the warm water as it poured down his body. Of course, he could not linger long in the shower, though, and before he would have liked, he was out of the shower, drying off, and slipping on the fresh, crisp, new clothes that sat on the edge of his bed.

He had 11 minutes left when he was fully dressed, except for his shin protection and boots, and ready to depart the apartment. He made sure the leaky shower faucet that always cost him precious waldoons was turned off, the lamp by the couch was turned off (why he turned it on in the first place never seemed to enter his mind), and then the light switch that controlled the entire apartment was in the "off position" before walking out the door and into the halls of the Grand Oaks Apartments complex.

As he turned left out of his door to take the stairs, since those would be exponentially quicker than the creaking elevator, James, his neighbor who lived two doors down, came out of his room, with a notebook under his arm. Ian groaned inwardly, knowing that there was no way he could make it past James without conversing for at least three minutes. Although he tried to put his head down and walk silently past him, his footballing attire and the backpack slung over his shoulder with boots sticking out of the top gave him away. James placed his hand on the fleeing Ian and turned him around.

"Hey there, Ian. You going to a football match?"

"Yep, James. I actually have to get there right now," said Ian, hoping and praying that James would understand the blatant connotation in his tone, that is that he wanted, and needed, to leave now.

James didn't seem to notice.

"I think football's a great sport. Why, did you know that I used to play, up until I was about thirteen or fourteen? It was one of the best times of my life. There was such camaraderie, teamwork, it was a real brotherhood, to the letter of the definition. In fact, there was one time...."

And then James was off, talking about a time, when he was eight, that a teammate had been so tired from a training session that he'd begun vomiting, and his mom had been forced to come to the field and take him home, and how he'd left behind his beautiful, expensive, green and orange boots, and how James, being just an innocent but noble young kid who rarely got in trouble at school (oh and did you know that he also took out the garbage before his parents even asked every Monday?), had picked up the cleats and sprinted, as fast as his little legs could carry him, to the car where his teammate was just getting in, and how his teammate, whose name was either Daniel or Joey, had thanked him so much, and patted him on the back, and promised that he would go to his birthday party, and promised that he'd buy him the coolest toy that he would ever have seen.

"So anyway, I don't want to keep you long, Ian. Nice seeing you."

Ian looked down at his cellphone. He had less than six minutes. It would take him at least eight to drive there, regardless of the traffic conditions. He couldn't believe it. James, the person who attended chemistry seminars for fun on the weekends, and couldn't tell you Alec Vordeau from the ice cream vendor down the street, had made him late for his football match. And to add insult to the already excruciating injury, James hadn't made him late because he'd been talking about carbon bonding or isotopes. No, he'd been talking about football.

Thirty seconds later, Ian was in his car. He turned on the radio, and although he was only half listening as his car sped through moderate traffic on Humdeia's streets, this is what he heard....

---

Getting to Know the Competition:
Equestrian States

Hello, I'm Richard McElvers, and welcome to Sports Register Radio's newest feature, Getting to Know the Competition, which will take you inside some of the nations that are favored to compete in this World Cup and are considered leaders on the world football stage. First up, today we cover Equestrian States, the 22nd ranked team in the world, where of course the Welsh Cowboy national football squad is right now, preparing for their World Cup 66 opener. So let's jump right into it, shall we?

The Equestrian States' defining feature is that 85% of its population is composed of various species of sapient ponies; as a matter of fact, football isn't played in Equestrian States; instead, they term it hoofball. While we don't have time to describe all of the various species and subgroups present in the nation, let's highlight pegasai, which make up a plurality of the ranks of hoofball-playing ponies. They have wings, and while various rules prevent them from flying everywhere, they often use their wings when chasing down balls, which gives them an extra burst of speed; undoubtedly, the Welsh Cowboy coaches are instructing players on how to respond to new wrinkles and happenings like these, although Welsh Cowboy has something of an advantage, having played Crystal Empire in the Baptism of Fire.

While sapient equines playing "hoofball" is the most recognizable aspect of the Equestrian States, we here at Sports Register Radio want to give you, the fans, some deeper background and history on each opponent. So here we go:

The Ponies, as they are rather obviously called, play in purple and orange. The team made its World Cup debut during the 58th World Cup cycle, after participating in the 45th Baptism of Fire. Some Welsh Cowboy fans might be familiar with other debutants from that cycle, which include Wight, which of course is the reigning world champions, as well as opponents of Welsh Cowboy in our final friendly match before the qualifying cycle. The Ponies have qualified for the World Cup proper in the last two tournaments, although they finished third in their group both times. Throughout their World Cup career, the team has become known for fast, attacking and relentless "hoofball," as well as a penchant for holding on to late leads.

Which players and other figures should you be familiar with? Firstly, there's manager Twilight Striker, who has guided the team since its formation in the 45th Baptism of Fire. And then there's two leaders of the team, forward Fire Dash, the captain, and midfielder Starlight Sparkle, the vice-captain. They've combined for 221 goals, and Equestrian States will be looking for even more.

We will of course cover tomorrow's World Cup qualifier, as we're sure that you are looking forward to that big match. And in the future, we're going to keep bringing you information on other notable nations in the World Cup; next time, we're hoping to bring you a report on Apox, although this is subject to change.

For now, good night, Welsh Cowboy.

[Sangti]

OOC: It should have been a group preview or a review of the pre WCQ friendlies, but the computer fucked up, so, a makeshift RP also to introduce Perlasilangan.

A Night in Perlasilangan

Before the Agilang Dilaw's trip to Osarius for their first match, they had to make an emergency stopover to the land of the Mulawins, Perlasilangan. The nation is a member of the Fipino Federation, a federation that also involves Sangti and other nations, so the pilot thought it would be alright to make an emergency stop there, and get some fuel. What they did not know is that Mulawins and musangs that are members of the Perlasilangani military are waiting for the plane to stop. The team saw the humanoid creatures, they started to laugh.

"Are there really these type of creatures? I can only see ponies, bears and some weird human, but a humanoid eagle? Oh my goodness, I cannot stop laughing." Carl said.

"Could you stop laughing? We might be in danger." Adrian replied.

"See, their eyes look like they are predating, and wait, isn't that a gun? Goodness me these are terrorists!" Marty said, covered in fear.

The door was almost forced open, then they saw the humanoid lions, tigers and birds come into the plane, and get hold of each team member. A Mulawin said, "Who are you?"

"Sir, you see. We miscalculated on our fuel calculations, so we ended up here instead of Osarius." Jaime explained that they were in fact playing Osarius next day.

"OK. get off the plane while we find jet fuels for your flight to go through." the mulawin replied.

They were stunned at what he said. find? Isn't it get?

"As we see here, we have just inhabited this land, and any foreign creatures in this land, the Federation Included, will be subject to an appearance in our makeshift court. But since you are already harmless, maybe we could have a feast in a field nearby." he added.

The team asked his name. He replied.

"My name is Jomyr Sam Izac Asi y Remigio, Izac for short."

They met with the mulawins and musangs for a night, and ate food, but not so much. They were even discussing their tactics for the next match, when the bad news arrived.

"Sir Izac, we could not find any jet fuels for now." said the musang, who is believed to be Izac's second in command.

The team panicked. Does it mean that they will miss the match against Osarius? The mulawin had other ideas.

"OK guys, you might heard the news, you cannot use your jet as we cannot find any here. But I have a plan." Izac said.

A horde of mulawins and ravenas went to their area, around a hundred of them.

"We may take you to Osarius with our bodies. Get all your belongings and we will fly out of Perlasilangan as soon as possible."

The team accepted the offer and rode the humanoid birds along with their stuff, to Osarius. They saw lands and seas as they approached Osarius. Upon entering Osarian territory, people there were shocked at what they saw, as humanoid birds carrying humans were seen. They landed near the hotel that they should have stayed in before the match. They thanked the Mulawins and Ravenas and they exchanged remembrances. As the birds leave, they started to enter the hotel, but to their dismay, the reservation has already expired due to their late arrival.

"Guys, I think we will sleep at the streets." Jaime said.

Fortunately they found an accommodation. Better late than never. They opened the remembrance. A map of Perlasilangan.

"Oh, they already had a cities map for their nation. Just... inhabited?" Daren wondered.

They would stop talking about Perlasilangan as they discussed their plans against the world number seven.

[Qazox]

yay. qazox won a match vs. german american states 2-0.

of course we won, we're better than them. what do germans know about anything anyways? we're off to a winning start, and unfortunately so is the archregimancy who won 3-0 over haute cuisine or savoir faire, some silly french team.

we lost our schedule, as the hosts screwed it up. so we have no real idea whom as to we shall face next. shouldn't matter, as long as it is the archregimancy.

SCORING
Justin Steyn- 22'
Lorne Brady- 53'

[Northern Sunrise Islands]

DE PLACA
Insert Destruicity Here

WORLD CUP 66 QUALIFIERS
Sunrisians start with a tie against Alkoul, 1-1

After a, well, confusing start; mostly because of a lack of an efficient intelligence sector at the Northern Sunrise Islands Football Confederation, the Sunrisians started their qualifiers facing off a rather simplistic side, Alkoul. In fact, they were so simple, that they decided to avoid naming their players and simply just play their match. Kinda strange, but at this point, we are used to it. They are not the first, and will not be the last to do it, that's life.

Also, it shouldn't surprise a lot that they scored before the first half, thanks to a dubious free kick, which really needed more examination. Instead, the free kick was converted and Alkoul started well. Another of those moments in which the referee would probably need police help to leave the stadium, but the Sunrisians were pretty calm about it, ignoring the possibly biased referee and continuing with the match.

In fact, the Sunrisians were so calm that they scored only on the second half, after a great cross from Duda reached Montblanc's head. She headed the ball to the goal without much trouble and found the net. No real need for a comemoration, as the team was still focused on scoring and taking it home.

It was a disappointing end, obviously, when the ref signaled it off, 1-1. Mostly considering the fact that the top team of Group 12, Equestrian States, came out with a win against Colombian Britannia. Even worser, Welsh Cowboy and Iturributa managed to tie 2-2, which meant that NSI and the Humbletopia named Alkoul were on the end of the list until Matchday 2. Well, that's a good way to start. I guess.

NORTHERN SUNRISE ISLANDS - 1
Rosário; De Souza, P. Mangalonga, Hanekawa, Souza; Laval, Crawford, Smith, Duda; Patiy, Montblanc (77')

ALKOUL - 1
As requested by Alkoul, we aren't going to list their players. Strange, but accepted, we guess.

OTHER NEWS
> Sunset League Two is no longer a possibility, but a "certain reality", says Minister Allejo
> Project +90 trashing opponents in friendlies, beat Esportiva de Madureira by 5-1
> Sunrise Gridiron League will have two conferences, declares new Comissioner
> Sens and SV Granger Bratislavaek possibly looking at their farm teams for newbies
> Handball: Why not allowing the world to know about our league's results?
> nsi.baseball: Tivoli Green Sox beats Stilwater 5-2 at league's "non-international" season

[Sangti]

OOC: I had to write a follow-up RP to put the scheduling woes behind us.

The team were already planning to sleep in their new hotel, when Jaime's phone rang. It was Jerous Almirante.

*ring*

"Hello?"

"The Football Commission of Aels have called me. The team should be playing there. Where are you?"

"In Osarius."

"Wait, what? You didn't receive an updated schedule?"

"No."

"Where's your plane?"

"It's stuck in Perlasilangan."

"Perlasilangan?"

"The dumb crew miscalculated on fuel consumption, so we landed in a land that was 'just inhabited' by some very weird creatures."

"OK. I'll send in a plane to Osarius to pick you up."

"You better be fast, or we'll be fucked up in Aels."

The team were in state of confusion. They packed up their belongings and were at the receptionist of the hotel, waiting for the rented bus to go to the airport. It was nine in the evening in Osarius, and they have no idea what time would the match in Aels take place. Fortunately for them they were able to fly to Aels in time for the first match of the qualifiers. However, the jet lag got the best of them.

Aels 3-2 Sangti - at Aels

Scorers: Corsiga (55'), Magcaleng (70')
Played: Villejo, Bautista, Pablo, Docdoc, Ang (Arceo 48'), Sor (K. Khan 60'), Sanchez, Pasamonte (E. Khan 80'), Linsangan, Magcaleng, Corsiga

The jet lag caused the Agilang Dilaw to lose momentum in the first half, and concede two goals in a span of thirty minutes. Their goals made Sangti like an unranked team, due to the easy nature of the goals. At halftime though, manager Jaime Faltado gave the players a tongue lashing about their performance.

"I don't care whether that's jet lag or whatever, I want you to perform well in this stage of the game!!!"

The match resumed with vigor from the Sangtians. Ten minutes later, they finally broke their duck as Daren Corsiga launched a half-volley that kept the Aelsh goalkeeper rooted to his spot. There were a lot of chances Sangti made after that - all off target. However, in the 70th minute, the Agilang Dilaw finally leveled the match as Adrian Magcaleng picked up a pass from substitute Keith Khan, dribbled the ball past three defenders and lashed a low drive that caught the keeper by surprise, again. 2-2.

However, the tide of the match would turn around again as Aels managed to sneak in a goal from a corner kick at the first minute of added time, after their goals in the 5th and the 29th minutes. It was a hard fought match for Sangti, and they could even have stolen the match if not for that flight mishap that took them to Perlasilangan and Osarius. In the next match, they will travel again, this time to a totally unknown land called as Partially Blind People.

Authorities at Sangti have changed their plans, as the scheduling fiasco now sees Sangti vs Aels at matchday six. Security will be high when the Aelsh team arrives in the Imelda Marcos International Airport in some months time.

[Chiata]

Chiata Sports Network

Frank- Hello, I am Frank Zian.

Jordy- And I am Jordy Upwalker.

Frank- Today is a beautiful day to start World Cup 66.

Jordy- The match we are covering is 204th ranked Chiata Suns (0-0-0) at 76th ranked Yesopalitha (0-0-0).

Frank- I will do the play by play while Jordy does the color commentating.

Frank- Here is the opening kick. Kicked by Swade.

Jordy- Boy that sucker flew.

Frank- The Yesop forward picks it up and drives up feild.

Frank- He is met with a crushing wall made up of R.T., Willis, and Rickers.

Frank- The Yesop forward does a few tricks and swings right by. He has room! Charging down the sideline!

Jordy- There he goes!

Frank- Here comes the defenders however.

Frank- He gets past Foer. Yales trips and falls down. It's only Chriss between the Goal Keeper, Gross, and the forward.

Frank- Chriss slides trying to pick the ball out. The forward tumbles down. Whistle blow.

Jordy- Yellow card on Chriss, I think.

Frank- It is indeed. Yesop now has a corner kick. The defense crowds into the box.

Frank- The kick goes up. Hit the head of Huburt. And the ball is flying up.

Jordy- Oh boy....

Frank- The Yesop midfielder jumps high enough and hits the ball with his head.

Frank- And...........

Jordy- GGGGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Frank- Yesopalitha with an early score in the 3rd minute. 1-0.

Jordy- This doesnt look good for the Chiata Suns.

Frank- Your right. They seem to lack the ability to come from behind...........

...

Chiata Times
"Suns loose 2-0 to Yesopalitha"
In a game that wasn't as close as the score suggests, 204th Chiata (0-0-1) lost to 76th Yesopalitha (1-0-0) 2-0. Yesop put up a good offensive attack and dominated the game. Chiata did not get very many chances to score against Yesop. However, the defense did fairly well against the high-powered Yesop offense by holding them to 2 goals. "Yesop played a tough game. They were the worthy winners. I would like to see Gross do a better job at Goal Keeper", said Coach Fillmont. Clearly the Chiata Suns have some work to do if they want to improve from last season.

Game Summary:

Chiata 0 - 2 Yesopalitha
2'- Yellow Card (Chiata)G. Chriss
3'- Goal (Yesopalitha) Mid-Fielder
25'- Yellow Card (Yesopalitha) Forward
44'- Goal (Yesopalitha) Forward
45'- Half
71'- Yellow Card (Chiata) S. Swade
90'- End Match

[Levivania]

It was a tough match for Levivania as they lost 2-0 to the Sova Empire, Goalie Mike Laznbey struggled greatly during the match, and there defense looked like a disaster. But the team could not lose there sprit. The coach was thinking about benching Mike but after a good scrimmage where his scrimmage team scored 5 and allowed 0, the coach decided to keep him. Meanwhile, star player Levi Goldman was in his hotel room washing his face in the sink. His face was bloody and bruised after all the hits he took. Since he was Levivania's star player the Sova Empire team would constantly slide tackle him. Levi was married to his wife Lauren the Levivania pop star. Levi Had some troubles in his life. He was a type one diabetic and had to carefully monitor his blood sugar or he risked death or going into a coma. Exercise like playing soccer made his blood sugar drop dangerously. In fact his blood sugar dropped so much that his head started pounding. Whenever his blood sugar dropped a lot he would get a head ache. As he stood by the sink his head pounding he thought about his mother. His mother was very sick when he left to play in the world cup. She was suffering from many illnesses as she got older. He decided to look at his phone which he had not checked for a while. He noticed there were 9 missed calls from the same number in the past day and a half. He decided to call the number. A woman's voice picked up.
"Hello,"
"Hi who is this"
"Oh my, Your Levi Goldman"
"My name is Heather I work at lush meadows hospital,"
Oh my God! Levi thought the hospital where his mother had been for the past month! The woman continued.
"I'm very sorry to say, you mother has recently passed away,"
Levi dropped the phone in shock. He began to first just think that it was some sick joke. But it was no joke. He then began to himself: "No, No, No," He then began to scream and cry. Tears were gushing from his face. He picked up a bedside lamp and threw it against the wall while crying, He picked up the land line phone and threw it against the wall to. Al those years his mother had taken such great care of him as he was a type 1 diabetic. Every night his mom would sacrifice her sleep to check his blood sugar in the middle of the night. Tem Mate Danny Muller rushed in the room to see what was going on. he found Levi crying and throwing items across the room. Immediately he knew what hat happened. Levi told Danny about how his mother had been sick on the plan ride there, so he knew that she must have died. Eventually he calmed down and with Danny they went out on a run. When Levi was upset or sad that could calm him down, This time he ran like there was no tomorrow not feeling fatigued or tired. When he was done he trained as hard as he could. He would win the next game for his mother.