World Cup 73 - RPing Thread

by **San Jose Guayabal** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 5:08 pm

Roleplay Thread

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Welcome to the 73rd World Cup, hosted by Apox and The Royal Kingdom of Québec, with additional hosting support provided by Stvoto Latoli and San José Guayabal!

Apox is a large and relatively affluent country based in Southern Esportiva, a renowned force in international and domestic football, the country is ready to host the Biggest Football Tournament in the Multiverse. The country is well connected to much of Esportiva and the multiverse with four international airports scattered around the country, as well as having good internal transportation links, by road, rail, air and sea. In terms of footballing infrastructure, Apox has hosted multiple tournaments before, as well as being the home of the ANL, the top ranked league in the world. Apoxians themselves have established as a welcoming and interesting nation to see apart from football, with stunning nature and good beaches all around the nation, an economical powerhouse in the region and a good democracy settles them as one of the most stable nations in the region of Esportiva.

Talking about The Royal Kingdom of Québec, it's a nation located in Northern AO, being a nation well known for its environment, rich cultural diversity and claims one of its region's most educated and cultured population. Led by His Imperial Majesty the Jacques IX, the country is a semi-constitutional monarchy, with both the royalty and the democracy playing a huge role in Quebecois politics. With a high HDI rating and affluent economy, Royal Kingdom of Québec is an advanced nation with long years of peace and stability within the nation, while still allowing for societal and economic progress over the course of its history. With a beautiful environment, advanced economy, state-of-art infrastructure and love of association football, Royal Kingdom of Québec is your place to go for your once-in-a-lifetime voyage that welcomes every traveler with smile and cheer.

Throughout the two host nations, preparations are being made for the celebration of of this massive football event; but before the multiverse's most captivating show can get underway, 30 more teams must earn their place in the tournament. The start of World Cup Qualifying is drawing near, and 140 nations will fight until the end for those extremely wished spots in Apox and The Royal Kingdom of Québec.

This is where you should post your roleplays, whether they’re multi-part epics, short-but-sweet journal entries, or anything else that you might come up with. We'll be adding information regarding the schedule, group draws, and anything else we deem necessary to this post as the tournament progresses.

Pot 1:
Pasarga (1)
Eura (2)
Nephara (3)
Polar Islandstates (4)
The Holy Empire (5)
Osarius (6)
Vilita (7)
Audioslavia (8)
Free Republics (10)
Valanora (11)
Turori (12)
Farfadillis (13)
Saintland (14)
Equestrian States (15)
Valladares (17)
Ko-oren (18)
Mertagne (19)
Legalese (20)
San Jose Guayabal (22)
Barunia (24)

Pot 2:

Yttribia (25)
The Sarian (26)
Kirisaki (27)
Sargossa (28)
Kandorith (29)
Unified Sunrise Islands (30)
Super-Llamaland (31)
Sandwich Territories (33)
Nova Anglicana (34)
Star United States (35)
Gregoryisgodistan (36)
Chiata (37)
Brenecia (38)
Blouman Empire (40)
Cosumar (41)
Electrum (42)
Semarland (43)
Krytenia (45)
HopNation (46)
Abanhfleft (47)

Pot 3:

Ceni (48)
Polaaskan (49)
Kernansquillec (50)
Carialus (51)
Zenic (52)
Schottia (53)
Polkopia (55)
Crystal Empire (56)
Boring Paradise (57)
Quakmybush (58)
Greater Watford (59)
Starblaydia (62)
Omerica (64)
Eastfield Lodge (65)
Taeshan (67)
Timbermunich (67)
Jeruselem (69)
Patistan (70)
United States of Devonta (71)
Lymantatia (72)

Pot 4:

Bears Armed (73)
Nassau-Hessen (75)
The Fallenmark Islands (76)
West Angola (77)
Sameba (79)
Antoletia (80)
Stvoto Latoli (81)
The Sword Bloke (82)
Garifunya (84)
Albaie (85)
Flardania (86)
Ocistine (87)
Szavoda (88)
Matthewsiania (91)
Maklohi Vai (92)
Sarrbia (95)
Acronius (98)
Lons (101)
San Llera (108)
New West Guiana (109)

Pot 5:

Frenline Delpha (113)
Augusticinia (120)
Port Christopher (125)
Volcanoc (126)
Recuecn (130)
Maretta (132)
Estenia (133)
Norrehavn (133)
Hodife (145)
Torisakia (147)
Britonisea (159)
Associated Godlands (161)
New Gelderland (166)
Greater Vakolicci Haven (173)
Fluvique (175)
Eshan (180)
Skarosbrekka (180)
Khaldor (180)
Kaboomlandia (184)
Gim (191)

Pot 6:

Minecraft Miners (197)
Emirate of Akbarstan (209)
Natanians and Nosts (209)
Dainer (228)
Banguela (229)
Damukuni (229)
Burthnas (237)
Dreamplanet (237)
Alastonia (241)
Copper Cuprum (245)
Armeia (258)
Cruenatia (258)
Freedom Utopia 100 (258)
Googolsia (258)
Shtiar Bakal (258)
Witty Penguins (258)
Hot Skitty on Wailord Action (279)
Herberland (279)
Wakezia (279)
Chromatika (288)

Pot 7:

Estelar (288)
Scottopian Isles (288)
Aeqamustopia (303)
Banija (303)
Saaksvala (303)
The Lee Islands (313)
Transpadana (313)
Alpha Gamma Kappa (UR)
Bongo Johnson (UR)
Cuboneland (UR)
Ilasia (UR)
Keyne Island (UR)
Kyrjasmark (UR)
Mangetsujima (UR)
New Mission (UR)
Nui-ta (UR)
RealSquad (UR)
Swilatia (UR)
The Aztec Enclave (UR)
The United Kingdom of Zackalantis (UR)

Qualifying Groups

Group 1

San Llera (108)
Nephara (3)
Mangetsujima (UR)
Shtiar Bakal (258)
Nova Anglicana (34)
Timbermunich (67)
Maretta (132)

Group 2

Garifunya (84)
Kernansquillec (50)
Britonisea (159)
Barunia (24)
RealSquad (UR)
The Sarian (26)
Dreamplanet (237)

Group 3

Chiata (37)
Audioslavia (8)
Nassau-Hessen (75)
Nui-ta (UR)
Eastfield Lodge (65)
Emirate of Akbarstan (209)
Fluvique (175)

Group 4

HopNation (46)
Matthewsiania (91)
Herberland (279)
Banija (303)
Frenline Delpha (113)
Free Republics (10)
Ceni (48)

Group 5

Flardania (86)
Damukuni (229)
Yttribia (25)
Gim (191)
Swilatia (UR)
Pasarga (1)
Greater Watford (59)

Group 6

Keyne Island (UR)
Krytenia (45)
Alastonia (241)
Mertagne (19)
Volcanoc (126)
Schottia (53)
Sameba (79)

Group 7

Reçueçn (130)
Ilasia (UR)
Antoletia (80)
Ko-oren (18)
Dainer (228)
Starblaydia (62)
Brenecia (38)

Group 8

Banguela (229)
Legalese (20)
Lymantatia (72)
Electrum (42)
Acronius (98)
Transpadana (313)
Port Christopher (125)

Group 9

Chromatika (288)
Vilita (7)
Kyrjasmark (UR)
Sargossa (28)
Polaaskan (49)
Eshan (180)
Sarrbia (95)

Group 10

Farfadillis (13)
The Aztec Enclave (UR)
Greater Vakolicci Haven (173)
Super-Llamaland (31)
Albaie (85)
Crystal Empire (56)
Cruenatia (258)

Group 11

The Holy Empire (5)
Bongo Johnson (UR)
Hot Skitty on Wailord Action (279)
Blouman Empire (40)
New West Guiana (109)
Skarosbrekka (180)
Patistan (70)

Group 12

Quakmybush (58)
Bears Armed (73)
Estelar (288)
Polar Islandstates (4)
Estenia (133)
Googolsia (258)
Semarland (43)

Group 13

Kandorith (29)
Boring Paradise (57)
Equestrian States (15)
Augusticinia (120)
Saaksvala (303)
Copper Cuprum (245)
Stvoto Latoli (81)

Group 14

Szavoda (88)
Minecraft Miners (197)
Sandwich Territories (33)
New Mission (UR)
Polkopia (55)
Norrehavn (133)
Eura (2)

Group 15

Lons (101)
Thaldor (180)
Zenic (52)
Valladares (17)
Burthnas (237)
Kirisaki (27)
The Lee Islands (313)

Group 16

Gregoryisgodistan (36)
The Sword Bloke (82)
Associated Godlands (161)
San Jose Guayabal (22)
Jeruselem (69)
Aeqamustopia (303)
Natanians and Nosts (209)

Group 17

The United Kingdom of Zackalantis (UR)
Omerica (64)
Armeia (258)
West Angola (77)
Osarius (6)
Kaboomlandia (184)
Unified Sunrise Islands (30)

Group 18

Maklohi Vai (92)
Cuboneland (UR)
Saintland (14)
New Gelderland (166)
Witty Penguins (258)
United States of Devonta (71)
Abanhfleft (47)

Group 19

Freedom Utopia 100 (258)
Carialus (51)
Octinstine (87)
Torisakia (147)
Turori (12)
Scottopian Isles (288)
Star United States (35)

Group 20

Wakezia (279)
Alpha Gamma Kappa (UR)
Cosumar (41)
Valanora (11)
Taeshan (67)
Hodife (145)
The Fallenmark Islands (76)

Qualifying - Group Stage

World Cup 73 qualifying will consist of 20 groups, where each team will play the others in their group twice in a double round robin, one team will get a bye considering that we will have seven teams in each Qualifying group: once at home and once on the road. During the first leg of qualifying (MDs 1-7), Groups 1-10 will be scorinated by Stvoto Latoli at 11:00 PM CDT (4:00 AM UTC), while Groups 11-20 will be scorinated by Apox at 2:00 PM EDT (7:00 PM UTC). During the second leg of qualifying (MDs 8-14), Groups 1-10 will be scorinated by San José Guayabal at approximately 8:00 PM CST (Doesn't observes Daylight Saving - 2:00 AM UTC), while Groups 11-20 will be scorinated by The Royal Kingdom of Québec between 11:30 PM - 1:30 AM EDT (3:30 AM - 5:30 AM UTC). The first team listed in each fixture is the home team.

October 15th MD1 - 2v7, 3v6, 4v5 (1 bye)
October 16th MD2 - 6v4, 7v3, 1v2 (5 bye)
October 17th MD3 - 3v1, 4v7, 5v6 (2 bye)
October 18th MD4 - 7v5, 1v4, 2v3 (6 bye)
October 19th MD5 - 4v2, 5v1, 6v7 (3 bye)
October 20th MD6 - 1v6, 2v5, 3v4 (7 bye)
October 21st MD7 - 5v3, 6v2, 7v1 (4 bye)
October 22nd Rest day
October 23rd MD8 - 7v2, 6v3, 5v4 (1 bye)
October 24th MD9 - 4v6, 3v7, 2v1 (5 bye)
October 25th MD10 - 1v3, 7v4, 6v5 (2 bye)
October 26th MD11 - 5v7, 4v1, 3v2 (6 bye)
October 27th MD12 - 2v4, 1v5, 7v6 (3 bye)
October 28th MD13 - 6v1, 5v2, 4v3 (7 bye)
October 29th MD14 - 3v5, 2v6, 1v7 (4 bye)

The Finals

Group A

Flardania (57)
Electrum (35)
Apox (22)
Valanora (9)

Group B

Ceni (43)
Eura (2)
Free Republics (12)
Cosumar (31)

Group C

Polar Islandstates (3)
Schottia (46)
Farfadillis (11)
San Jose Guayabal (15)

Group D

Kandorith (20)
Osarius (6)
Abanhfleft (47)
Equestrian States (14)

Group E

The Royal Kingdom of Quebec (17)
Zenic (49)
Audioslavia (8)
Krytenia (39)

Group F

Semarland (42)
Saintland (13)
Barunia (21)
The Holy Empire (5)

Group G

Nephara (4)
Kernansquillec (48)
Unified Sunrise Islands (25)
Vilita (7)

Group H

Turori (10)
Starblaydia (48)
Pasarga (1)
Valladares (16)

Finals Calendar:

The group stage will consist of each team playing the others in their group once in a single round robin. Apox will scorinate his groups (Groups E-H) at 8:00 PM UTC. The Royal Kingdom of Québec will scorinate his groups (A-D) between 10:30 PM - 12:30 AM EST (3:30 AM - 5:30 AM UTC).. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage.

Sunday 8th Nov - MD1 - 1v4, 2v3
Tuesday 10th Nov - MD2 - 4v3, 1v2
Thursday 12th Nov - MD3 - 2v4, 3v1
Saturday 14th Nov - Ro16 - A1vB2, C1vD2, B1vA2, D1vC2, E1vF2, G1vH2, F1vE2, H1vG2
Monday 16th Nov - QFs - SR1vSR2, SR3vSR4, SR5vSR6, SR7vSR8
Wednesday 18th Nov - SFs - QF1vQF2, QF3vQF4
Thursday 19th Nov - 3PPo - SF1 Loser vs. SF2 Loser
Friday 20th Nov - Final - SF1 Winner vs. SF2 Winner

The posted schedule and cutoff times are subject to change by the hosts. Any changes to the original plan will be announced in the WCDT and will be edited into this post.

by **The Royal Kingdom of Quebec** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 6:42 pm

ROYAL KINGDOM OF QUEBEC

Transportation

To arrive in Quebec you'll likely just want to fly in to the city that you will be playing in. The 6 cities going to be hosting the tournament, with all of them possessing a major airport. If you insist on arriving via waterways, then there's nothing to worry, as all 3 holds a port able to hold most vessels.

While travelling inside country, there are main methods you can use for this. The railways here isn't as quick as it'd be with other nations(the maximum speed being 225km for the fastest train service), but they are extremely punctual/on-time, popular and frequent(one train per 30 minutes), making it a very cost-effective and attractive option. Quebec does possess a strong auto industry and cars are somewhat prevalent, so you can travel via cars if interested. Flying between those three cities are not recommended as there are not only very few flights, but also there's no need for them.

Lodging

There will be some hotels of high-calibre (at least 4 star ones) available in those cities. However, those 4 cities being medium-sized cities, there will be some issues. The same will not be guaranteed with the visiting fans as there will be mass influx of Quebecois citizens as well, to watch the games. Therefore it is recommended to make reservations 3-4 months ahead of the tournament, in order to guarantee your reservation in the hotels around the city.

If you are still in trouble of finding hotel or motel suites, there will be hotels, motels and other modes of accomodation available at your expense, on towns slightly far away from the venues(50km-100km). For more information please contact Tourism Quebec or for more specific information any tourism agency of the city/cities you'll be off to(OOC: TG The Royal Kingdom of Quebec if you have any questions or so).

Weather

Royal Kingdom of Quebec is located in Temperate and Polar regions, with the cities located in varying degrees of climate zones so all 4 seasons can be experienced each year, but with different extremes. As this tournament is held during the month of June, temperatures will be either around 18-25'C in normal days for all venues but those in Attawapiskat and Iqaluit. For information about how the Summers are like in normal Summer time for them, please look at the venues information. For those visiting Attawapiskat and/or Iqaluit, it's very likely that the snowfall will be extremely frequent. This will not affect the train services, though it'll do more than enough job of freezing people up, as all of the games will be held outdoors.

Languages

There are three official languages in this nation: English, French and Korean. All 3 languages are taught in school curriculum and with great depth, causing most of the population to be at least trilingual. Additionally, in this part of the nation there are some other First Nations languages being recognised as regional languages and are used+learned to great depth in schools, so please note this when you're RPing in Quebec. Most Quebecois you'll meet are extremely polyglot and that will show with way they speak.

When it comes to linguistic status on city that you're RPing on/about, you're more than welcome to TG The Royal Kingdom of Quebec about it.

Money

The national currency of Quebec is Quebecois Dollar, which is fairly expensive. The current exchange rate is $3 NS for 1 Quebecois dollar. With the nation being rich with huge economy, almost everyone will have at least has a good deal of money here. So please don't feel surprised if the products are much more expensive here than back home, excluding alcohol.

Things you'll need in your stay, prices in NS Dollars (NS$) and Quebecois Dollars (Q$)

-Hotel: NS$ 35-400, Q$12-135
-Public transport in the cities: NS$2-$5, Q$0.7-1.7
-Bus transport to different cities: NS$5-50, Q$1.7-17
-Train transport to different cities: NS$6-80, Q$2-28
-Ferry between lakes: NS$5-$12, Q$1.7-4
-Flights between cities: NS$65-150, Q$22-50
-Average cost of food: NS$12-45, Q$4-15
-Sports tickets: NS$60-600, Q$20-200
-Bottle of water: NS$9, Q$3 (Sale of bottled water extremely limited, with public fountains providing very low interest for the people)
-Public phone: NS$1.5 per call, Q$0.5 per call

Cuisine

Quebecois cuisine has evolved through centuries of social and political change. Originating from dominant Korean and elegant French cuisine that came with settlers, as well as materials and existing food of the First Nations living in the area, Quebecois cuisine has evolved through a complex interaction of the natural environment and different cultural trends and is the best mix of it all.

Quebecois cuisine is largely based upon rice, other diverse kinds of grains, vegetables, and meats(in this area moose and caribou, and to rare cases bears). The meals are noted for the number of side dishes (banchan) that accompany steam-cooked short-grain rice. It varies on the personal preferences but often in every meal they eat at least some form of maple syrup, Kimchi and/or bread. Commonly used ingredients include sesame oil, doenjang (fermented bean paste), soy sauce, salt, garlic, ginger, pepper flakes and gochujang (fermented red chili paste). In this part of the nation, fish are caught off the rivers and lakes to be eaten in whatever the way one prefers as well.

Ingredients and dishes vary by region to region, with many. Many regional dishes have become national, and dishes that were once regional have proliferated in different variations across the country.
Meals are regulated by cultural etiquette, which are very hard to follow for even the average Quebecois due to all the processes they take.

TG The Royal Kingdom of Quebec for any questions.

Religion

Quebec is a religiously diverse country, though divided when it comes to dominant regions. In the cities where the World Cup of Hockey will be hosted, First Nations' religions are widely practiced, with Quebecois Catholic Church and Buddhism right behind. Due to these differences, all three levels of Government keeps some separation from any religions, though they still hold some influences in those levels and receive lots of funding. It is also not recommended to argue about politics or religion in Quebec, as political and religious apathy is not known....for most part.

Laws

Culturally and socially, Quebec is in bit of a mix. Another handy chart will be in place to explain some of Quebec's laws in place:

Recreational drugs: Legal, though selling them without licence can lead to up to $10,000 in fines and 5 years in jail.
Hard drugs: Illegal, with punishments up to $50,000 in fines and 15 years in jail for possession and consumption of the drugs
Prostitution: Legal, though people's attitudes about it will be very conservative in this part of the nation
Pornography: Legal, aside from child pornography(applies to any pornographic videos or anything else starring people up to 18 years of age). Possession of child pornography will land you straight in jail for 5 years, while production and distribution of it can lead to potential death sentence. So, don't try it as it's a big no-no.
Legal age for tobacco: Varies (16 in Val d'Or and Rouyn-Noranda, 19 in Churchill and Winnipeg, 18 in rest)
Legal age for alcohol: 16
Maximum BAC to drive: 0.03.
Saying the word 'Coconut': Legal

All the foreign citizens caught under the Federal and/or Provincial law will not be extradited, unless of a special order given by the Emperor, His Imperial Majesty the Jacques IX.

Host Venues

Winnipeg

Winnipeg, provincial capital and largest city of Manitoba province, is the true regional centre and gateway to Western Quebec. The city, having a large First Nations and Guayabalense population, is hotbed for most sports. Rugby is of no exception, with Western Force games always sold out and the team constantly raking me off the draws. Winnipeg is probably the most progressive city in the nation, with Greens dominating the provincial votes for past 2 decades. Expect the crowd to be largely consisted of the youth and early adults, but also with some countrysiders as well.

Winnipeg Stadium
Capacity: 30,000
City: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Home team(s): Winnipeg Spartak (LigAnaia II), Winnipeg United (LigAnaia II)
Matches:MD1- Turori vs. Valladares
MD2- The Holy Empire vs. Barunia
MD3- Zenic vs. Krytenia
Round of Sixteen E- Group E Winner vs. Group F Runner-Up

Trojanajara

Trojanajara is a city in Ontario, Royal Kingdom of Quebec, 1,500 kilometres northwest of Kingston and 890 kilometres east of Winnipeg. With about 178,000 inhabitants, Trojanajara is one of the province's smaller cities. However, it is one of the richest and most connected of Ontarian-Frontenacois cities, due to its significance and isolated location: the city is known for the world-class contraceptives company Trojana Co. (responsible for 97% of Multiverse's contraceptives market share) its associated sports club Trojana Condommakers FC. It is also the home of Trojanajara Country Music Festival, a huge fest that brings over 1 million people every year, for 7 days of country music, food and lifestyle.

The TrojArena
Capacity: 20,890
City: Trojanajara, Ontario
Home team(s): Trojana Condommakers FC (LigAnaia Calania)
Matches: MD1- Kernansquillec vs. Unified Sunrise Islands
MD2- Pasarga vs. Valladares
MD3- The Holy Empire vs. Saintland

Kingston

Kingston is a major city in the Southwestern corner of the nation, with the population of 3 million. an international centre for business and finanace. The city's cosmopolitan and international population reflects its status as one of most important destinations for immigrants to this Esquarian nation. The city itself is a mix of different periods and styles in history, which draws attentions to many visitors and residents. However, the city itself is quite weak on culture, a huge downer for one of Quebec's largest cities.

Pavel Wilson Stadium
Capacity: 47,560
City: Kingston, Frontenac
Home team(s): Kingston FC (Q-League Elite Division), Kingston Argonauts (Quebec Football League)
Matches: MD1- Zenic vs. Audioslavia
MD2- Nephara vs. Kernansquillec
MD3- Semarland vs. Barunia
Quarterfinals C- Winners of Round of Sixteen G and H

Attawapiskat

Attawapiskat (/ˌætəˈwɑːpɨskæt/ Cree: ᐋᐦᑕᐙᐱᐢᑲᑐᐎ ᐃᓂᓂᐧᐊᐠ Āhtawāpiskatowi ininiwak, "People of the parting of the rocks"; unpointed: ᐊᑕᐗᐱᐢᑲᑐᐎ ᐃᓂᓂᐧᐊᐠ) is an isolated city located in the northwestern corner of Northwest, Royal Kingdom of Quebec, at the mouth of the Attawapiskat River at Guerin Bay. Attawapiskat has been a mining city for its entire existence, owing its existence to two mineral deposits that were nearby. Royal Āhtawāpiskatowi Deposit, located northwest of the city of 750,000, was the World’s largest Diamond deposit, while Northland-Denver Deposit, which is 50km away to the northeast, was the World’s largest Emerald deposit. Recently however they have been diversifying their economy into telecommunications and trades, bringing the city additional economic boom. As a result, Politics-wise, it has been a conservative and traditional area, which was shown through the dominance of Parti Quebecois in last several provincial and federal elections.

When it comes to climate, it is a pretty cold city, with the average temperature of -4'C on a Summer day. So it is wise to wear some warm clothes.

City of Attawapiskat Stadium
Capacity: 48,330 (Seats: 32,460)
City: Quebec City, Capitale-Nationale
Home team(s): Zenit Attawapiskat (LigAnaia), Attawapiskat Rangers (QFL) , Northwestern University Marauders (QIS), University of Attawapiskat Nanabush (QIS)
Matches Hosted: MD1- Nephara vs. Vilita
MD2- Semarland vs. Saintland
MD3- Royal Kingdom of Quebec vs. Audioslavia
Round of Sixteen F- Group F Winner vs. Group E Runner-up

Montreal

Montreal is the largest city of the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. With the population of 12 million in the area, the city is the centre of Quebec's economy, culture,commerce, finance, industry, transportation and sports. The demographics tends to be younger and more educated than the national average, on top of being more ethnically diverse.

The Samseongoloondongjang
Capacity: 87,880
City: Montreal, Montreal
Home team(s): Koreana (Kibera Super Rugby), Montreal Koreana (LigAnaia Calania)
Matches:MD1- Royal Kingdom of Quebec vs. Krytenia
MD2- Unified Sunrise Islands vs. Vilita
MD3- Pasarga vs. Turori
Round of Sixteen G- Group G Winner vs. Group H Runner-Up
World Cup Final

Charlottetown

Known for its potatoes and beautiful scenery on countryside, Prince Laurent Island is an island small in population (350,000) but highly passionate in attendance and love of football. Since the early 70s the Islanders have been among the most supported out of all teams in a market its size, and its occasional successes in the former Q-League has made the team and island a small star among metropolis-based giants in the league.

Bannockburn Stadium
Capacity: 18,960
City: Charlottetown, Prince Laurent Island
Home team(s): PLI Islanders (LigAnaia II), PLI Islanders (Quebec Rugby League)
Matches: MD1- Saintland vs. Barunia
MD2- Turori vs. Starblaydia
MD3- Kernansquillec vs. Vilita

St.John's

Located on the easternmost and largest island of Quebec, this Newfoundland city of 3.45 million people is one of the largest in the country and largest in Atlantic Quebec by far. A city of Eireanners, it's a city that's been on hard times for large part of late 1900s, but has on a strong rebound session for most of 2000s due to offshore oil development. Nowadays the demographics are lot more diverse than it once was 30 years ago, and you'll be able to mix in with any groups of Gaelic descent you prefer to be around with. The corporate aspect is starting to be stronger in some places, but for most part the locals are still very welcoming, vibrant and gentle folks.

Unlike its status as a major Quebecois city, downtown St.John's is relatively low-rise, with the heritage laws placed to restrict destruction of heritage buildings in what's the oldest settlement on the Northeastern part of the country. With this, on top of hilly terrain and steep maze of residential streets, downtown St. John's is considered to be highly beautiful, with the houses painted in bright, vibrant colours.

Blue Point Stadium
Capacity: 77,340 (Standing room: 2,030)
City: St.John's, Newfoundland
Home team(s): St.John's Titans (Quebec Rugby League), St.John's Caribou (Kibera Super Rugby), St.John's Arsenal (LigAnaia Calania), Newfoundland Highlanders (Quebec Football League)
Matches: MD1- Starblaydia vs. Pasarga
MD2- Krytenia vs. Audioslavia
MD3- Unified Sunrise Islands vs. Nephara
Quarterfinals D- Winner of Round of Sixteens E and F

Iqaluit

Iqaluit is a city of 750,000 people, most of them Inuits. With average winter temperature of -27'C, It is by far the coldest major city in Quebec, located right in the Esquarian Arctic. Therefore, most of the transportation is done through subways and underground hallways, which are often well known for being insulating, as well as luxurious. The city is extremely well known for its love of hockey, having 25,000 hockey arenas and rinks in a city of 750,000, but football is well-followed with Iqaluit Red Army drawing huge attendance figures.

Iqaluit Stadium
Built: 1947
Capacity: 104,000 (Standing room: 34,280)
City: Iqaluit, Nunavut
Home teams: Iqaluit Red Army(LigAnaia II), Nunavut North Stars (LigAnaia II), Iqaluit Thanatos(Quebec Football League)
Matches to be hosted:MD1- Semarland vs. The Holy Empire
MD2- Royal Kingdom of Quebec vs. Zenic
MD3- Starblaydia vs. Valladares
Round of Sixteen H- Group H Winner vs. Group G Runner-up
Semifinals B

by **Apox** » Fri Oct 09, 2015 12:30 am

Apox National Information

Map of Apox

Congratulations on qualifying for World Cup 73! If you've been drawn into groups A-D, you'll be playing in the Esportivan nation of Apox, and thus your host information can be found below. Apox is a well established and accomplished host nation and we hope your stay here will be thoroughly enjoyable.

COUNTRY HISTORY

Apox was founded 588 years ago by migrants from the north of our continent in Esportiva, with a large influx of people coming from The Licentian Isles from the East and from Uitbregen in the West. The capital Dwile was established in 14 A.T (Apoxian Time) and has been the cultural and financial centre every since, in it's prime location in the middle of the country, whilst also being on the coast, therefore providing an extra level of accessibility for those who prefer to travel by sea.

After war against Cyborg Holland, for the southern county of Olfa, Apox in it's current form was established in the late 460's A.T. Since then, it has thrived in relative peace and freedom, with our semi-democratic state watching over. A civil war between 550-555 A.T led to Apox becoming more democratic, and it emerged from the ashes a stronger nation on all fronts, with our first leader, Lord Winklebottom, driving through a great deal of change. Apox becamse less isolationist and joined in the regional affairs of Esportiva, our standing growing in the region so much so that between the years of 576-582 the regional delegacy of Esportiva was held in Apox, with ambassador Jemima Cafrew, being Esportiva's representative in the World assembly. These days, we have less power in the region but are still an important nation.

TRANSPORTATION

Apox has a quite varied road system, with the roads around Dwile being very well maintained, but with the roads further away often being one-track and almost dirt paths. However, our railway system, the Apox National Railway is a very good service, and is one of the most reliable railways in Esportiva. Our four main airports Dwile Capital Airport, Mandon District Airport (just outside Dwile), Gwinevra Airport and Urbanista Regional Airport are spread out over the country and have flights from many countries.

SPORTS
This cup marks twenty six years since Apox emerged from the wilderness to compete in the 48th Baptism of Fire. You'd be amazed at the levels you can achieve in such a short time, with the Apoxian National Football Team set to compete in it's seventh World Cup Finals this time around, having reached a high of 19th in the KPB rankings a couple of cups ago after becoming the first team from Esportiva to advance to the knock-out rounds of the World Cup.

Domestically, the Apox National League is the biggest league in all of Esportiva, and nearly of the World, having attained a high of being ranked 1st in the UICA rankings in it's 16th season of professional organised play, staying first since then, up to the current 20th season of play, with five clubs; Dwile Warriors, Gwinevra Barbarians, Barbury Town, FC Endeavour and Exton F.C ranked inside the top 50 clubs in the UICA rankings.

Apox is also a key player in various sports organisations, having had the Presidency of the Rugby World Cup being in Apox, as well as the dual-Presidency of international cricket being in Apox, with Liventia being the co-President. Most excitingly, and most recently, the Presidency of the WCC, the organising committee for multiversal football has moved to Apox, with Miriam Whittaker, the President of the AFB, moving post as a result.

STADIA

GROUP A

MD1: Flardania vs Valanora
MD2: Valanora vs Apox
MD3: Electrum vs Valanora
Ro16A: Winner of Group A vs Runner-up of Group B

MD1: Electrum vs Apox
MD2: Flardania vs Electrum
MD3: Apox vs Flardania

GROUP B

MD1: Ceni vs Cosumar
MD2: Cosumar vs Free Republics
MD3: Eura vs Cosumar
Ro16B: Winner of Group C vs Runner-up of Group D

MD1: Eura vs Free Republics
MD2: Ceni vs Eura
MD3: Free Republics vs Ceni

GROUP C

MD1: Polar Islandstates vs San José Guayabal
MD2: San José Guayabal vs Farfadillis
MD3: Schottia vs San José Guayabal
QFB: Winner of Ro16C vs Winner of Ro16D

MD1: Schottia vs Farfadillis
MD2: Polar Islandstates vs Schottia
MD3: Farfadillis vs Polar Islandstates

GROUP D

MD1: Kandorith vs Equestrian States
MD2: Equestrian States vs Abanhfleft
MD3: Osarius vs Equestrian States
Ro16C: Winner of Group B vs Runner-up of Group A

MD1: Osarius vs Abanhfleft
MD2: Kandorith vs Osarius
MD3: Abanhfleft vs Kandorith

VENUES FOR EXCLUSIVELY THE LATTER STAGES

Ro16D: Winner of Group D vs Runner-up of Group C
QFA: Winners of Ro16A vs Winner of Ro16B

SFA: Winner of QFA vs Winner of QFB
3PPO: Loser of SFA vs Loser of SFB

by **Gim** » Fri Oct 09, 2015 8:36 pm

Football Magazine: Goal!

SATV HD - Friday 1:05 A.M. - 1:35 A.M.

Hosts: Chae Byung Ho and Ha Ga Eun

Camera moves down from an aerial view of the studio to facing the two hosts.

Chae Byung Ho: "Hello and welcome to Football Magazine: Goal! This is Chae Byung Ho."

Ha Ga Eun: "I'm Ha Ga Eun!"

Chae Byung Ho: "Finally, the day has come! World Cup is launching its 73rd season, after Baptism of Fire has launched its 60th season."

Ha Ga Eun: "Yes, and certainly our Gimian players are excited to play in the tournament, after getting to the Quarterfinals of Baptism of Fire."

Chae Byung Ho: "That's right, that's right. And tonight we have a special guest from the Gimian team. He is our captain and the most experienced player in our team."

Ha Ga Eun: "Let's welcome Defenseman Jeon Geon Tae!"

Camera switches to showing the entire studio, where Chae Byung Ho and Ha Ga Eun shake hands with the Gimian defenseman.

Chae Byung Ho: "He is definitely the crux of our defense and we see the defensive unit of Gim, and they are very successful at minimizing scoring opportunities for the opposition teams.

Ha Ga Eun: "Geon Tae, what is the formula for keeping your opponents at bay?"

Jeon Geon Tae: "Well, our teammates have this special camaraderie that enhances our team play, and, as a result of that, we are able to communicate well and stick together well, providing a successful barrier against our opponents."

Chae Byung Ho: "Blocking all those shots and not feeling any sort of pain seems quite incredible to most of us here. What is your secret to that?"

Jeon Geon Tae: "Well, our players work out four times a day, and we focus on all parts of our body, not just our legs and thighs, which are essential in handling the ball. I'm pretty sure all of our players have defined bodies."

Ha Ga Eun chuckles.
Ha Ga Eun: "I remember when we thought [nation]Copper Cuprum]/nation], a team we faced in the Round of 16 of Baptism of Fire, had players with defined bodies. We soon realized half of their defensemen have a great deal of fat."

Jeon Geon Tae: "Yes, that is the exact reason we were able to win over them, although their offense was formidable."

Camera switches to an aerial view of the studio for three seconds, and switches back to the straight view of the studio, showing all three people.

Chae Byung Ho: "Geon Tae, you are not only a much needed presence in our team, but also a funny guy, as we saw you in our SATV's exclusive shows."

Ha Ga Eun: "Yes, we saw you in Runners, which is our Sunday prime-time show. The episode when you starred in the show goes back a couple of years, when you declared your love for your future wife. How is your family life?"

Jeon Geon Tae: "Yes, our family is very harmonious. My wife and I get along pretty well, with hardly any fights. My wife, who used to be my fiancé at the time, watched the show and was awestruck. She liked the parts when I was able to have fun with the Runners' members, especially Yoo Jae Seok, and we know he is the best comedian in the Gimian Empire."

Chae Byung Ho: "Yes, I do agree. Wow, time has really passed as we really had fun having you here. Last but not least, what do you think about the team going into the World Cup?"

Jeon Geon Tae: "We believe we can use our defense as an advantage in advancing into the Elimination Rounds. Hopefully, we have no serious injuries, allowing all of us to try and get out the most in what is our first World Cup appearance."

Ha Ga Eun: "Thank you, Geon Tae. Okay, this is it for Football Magazine: Goal! We hope to see you next Friday with greater news. Thank you."

Chae Byung Ho: "Thank you, ladies and gentlemen!"

Camera switches to an aerial view of the studio, where the three people shake hands with one another.

by **Keyne Island** » Sat Oct 10, 2015 3:31 pm

THE ISLANDER
Back To The Coalface

Keyne Island is, to most, a mere footnote in World Cup history. It was a little over seventy years ago that the Islanders entered the international scene. To say that they came out of that campaign with their tails between their legs is, perhaps, a little bit of an understatement. They were, after all, the victims of what was at the time the biggest shellacking in the tournament's long and storied history, losing 11-0 to Valanora.

Nobody would have blamed them for coming back. Credit to the plucky men from Keyne Island, though, they did - twice. A decent (if fruitless) World Cup 36 campaign helped to heal scars before the team disappeared from the radar, only to resurface for the competition's fiftieth edition. This entrance was mainly due to insistence of the normally hands-off Krytenians, the nation that (though you wouldn't know it at first glance) have Keyne Island under their protection. Another disaster ensued, with the nadir being a six-nothing reverse against Starblaydia.

So why now?

One simple answer: Andrew Swann. Son of Cygnus Technologies founder Anthony Swann, the youngster has opened a new manufacturing and research plant in Tongwell, and is also investing in the nation's footballing infrastructure. Cygnus cash will be bankrolling what Keyne Islanders hope will be a rapid rise to the World Cup hopefuls; for now though, only time will tell.

by **The Saint James Islands** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 11:25 am

reliable and trustworthy | 11 january 2021

world cup 73: the draw for the road to apox-quebec
64th-ranked omerica sat in pot 3, though it would not help them avoid a nightmarish draw

Québec City, Québec — Omerica will be lifted out of Pot 4 for the first time in ages ahead of the qualifying draw for the World Cup in Apox and Québec, though fears that the country could still languish in fourth-place after the dust settles remain.

Omerica’s place in Pot 3 will assure that no rematches against Jeruselem will happen, nor was Omerica in any danger of facing the likes of former champions Starblaydia, who sit just two places above Les Oiseaux in the rankings. Matches against Ceni, Polaaskan, Kernansquillec and Carialus were similarly ruled out by the Commonwealth’s place in the seeding pots.

qualifying format
The qualifying format remains much the same as before: 20 group winners qualify for the final tournament alongside the co-hosts Apox and Québec, while 20 runners-up go into two-legged play-offs to fight for the remaining ten places at the world’s premier football tournament. 32 teams that didn’t make the cut will take part in the Cup of Harmony, presumably going to San José Guayabal and Stvoto Latoli to do so.

The most significant change is that only seven teams will be in each group this year, meaning that only five and a half teams per group (five in groups with play-off winners and six in groups with play-off losers) will miss out on qualification. While it sounds like this would make qualifying easier, this also means that there will be two fewer games in qualifying this year, giving teams fewer opportunities to make up for early errors.

Another change comes in the fact that Omerica will not play any two games in the same venue. The TAO have opted to choose six venues to host qualifiers this cycle, instead of the usual three or four.

worst possible group
Pot 1: Nephara (3)
Pot 2: Unified Sunrise Islands (30)
Pot 3: Omerica (64)
Pot 4: Bears Armed (73)
Pot 5: Frenline Delpha (113)
Pot 6: Minecraft Miners (197)
Pot 7: Estelar (288) or Scottopian Isles (288)

It may seem as if we’ve simply been picking high-ranked teams, but there is a reason Nephara are in the “worst possible group” scenario instead of reigning champions Pasarga. There was little more than pure rankings put into consideration for the bottom three teams, but the top three have some bad “ju-ju” for Omerica. Few will forget how Sunrisians steamrolled Les Oiseaux back in WC71 qualifiers or the stinging draw against Bears Armed that started Omerica’s downward spiral in the last Cup of Harmony. Not to mention that close neighbours Omerica and Nephara have faced each other more times than anyone in Omerica would like to remember, with Omerica’s best result against the Cormorants being a home draw. History simply wouldn’t bode well for the men in blue in this kind of group.

best possible group
Pot 1: San José Guayabal (22)
Pot 2: Semarland (43)
Pot 3: Omerica (64)
Pot 4: Lons (101)
Pot 5: New Gelderland (166)
Pot 6: Hot Skitty on Wailord Action (279)
Pot 7: Swilatia (unranked)

The bottom teams weren’t hard to pick. HSOWA and Swilatia are simply too stubbornly proud or horridly incompetent to do the job, while Baptism champions New Gelderland will head into the tournament reeking of overconfidence. The pain of a fourth-place finish in last edition’s qualifiers will still be fresh on Lons’ minds and Semarland and San José Guayabal, while admittedly incredibly capable teams, are well within the reach of Jean-Baptiste Archambault’s team.

omerica’s actual group: group 17
Pot 1: Osarius (6)
Pot 2: Unified Sunrise Islands (30)
Pot 3: Omerica (64)
Pot 4: West Angola (77)
Pot 5: Kaboomlandia (184)
Pot 6: Armeia (258)
Pot 7: Zackalantis (unranked)

Now time to blow the country’s bubble. Qualification from this group will be a challenge. It isn’t a hopeless endeavour though. Osarius are ranked lower than the Holy Empire side that lost in Port Michael, giving the team hope for the game in Philibiscostal, while the Sunrisians have fallen hard to right around the position of the Sargossan side that Les Oiseaux beat away. Nonetheless, Omerica has the bad luck of getting one of the highest-ranking sides out of Pot 4, something that the Birds Beak Banner seems to be able to attract very well for whatever reason. Drawing lowly Kaboomlandia, who just barely scraped into Pot 5, would seem like a dream, but the local association have poured a metric-shitton of time and money into developing a kind of brick wall that will make any football-blooded Omerica want to riot in the streets and those tactics might sadly prove effective.

Omerica will have to face one of the bogeymen immediately in the form of the Sunrisians before heading off to face unranked Zacklantis. After a week off, Omerica will face Armeia and West Angola before staring down former back-to-back champions Osarius. Qualifying will close with a game against Kaboomlandia. Nothing looks guaranteed, but getting hopes up might be ill-advised.

Omerica open their qualifying campaign against Unified Sunrise Islands at the Stadium Saint George, to be aired on UCN1 at 18:00 OST.

breaking: federal government falls after budget vote fails
staci laurent’s failure to get a budget through parliament will likely send omerica to the polls

Georgetown — The rejection of the annual budget by the House of Representatives will very likely send Omericans to the polls for a federal election. The budget, considered a matter of confidence in the eight-year Socialist government, was rejected by the lower house of Parliament today in a 145–139 vote, with the opposition Nationals, Liberals and Confederation joining forces to topple the cabinet of Staci Laurent.

Laurent rose to power late last year when she successfully staged a party room coup to topple then-Socialist leader and Prime Minister William Lee Hennessey, who had presided over the Socialists’ loss of their parliamentary majority in 2019. Hennessey had previously guided his party to two successive parliamentary majorities in 2013 (the first time the Socialists had won a federal election) and 2016.

In spite of losing the Socialists’ parliamentary majority, the 2019 election produced a strong enough minority for the party that only a Socialist-led government could have expected to maintain confidence and supply. However, in light of strong results and an opposition unlikely to work together to topple the Socialists, Hennessey chose to reject negotiating a coalition, opting to form a “slalom government” that would negotiate majorities on an issue-by-issue basis. Despite initial scepticism, Hennessey’s government proved able to work with all three opposition parties—the centre-right Nationals, centrist Liberals and left-wing Confederation—to pass legislation in the lower house, something Laurent has proven less adept at.

Laurent’s refusal to negotiate on excise taxes for alcohol, tobacco and cannabis was the red line that brought the economically left-wing, yet socially conservative Confederation of Peoples to vote against the government, depriving the Prime Minister a successful vote on the budget. The possibility of three opposition parties cooperating to form a government is considered unlikely and House Speaker Thomas Caldwell (National — Alexandria) will likely advise President Anatarea Mahana that a dissolution of parliament, and thus a fresh election, is the only feasible option to resolve the current political impasse over the budget.

Laurent is due to visit Mahana at the Victoria House tomorrow, where she will formally ask for Parliament to be dissolved and the writs of election to be dropped.

for your reading pleasure

World Cup Challenge 73: Pick your qualifiers for Apox-Québec ▶
Landslip in Mid-Provence leaves two dead and six injured ▶
TAO announces six venues to host Omerica home qualifiers for the World Cup ▶
Cruise ship off the coast of Braadwund backtracks to find overboard man ▶

comments
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by **Polkopia** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 11:46 am

ALBERT: "Hello everybody. You're watching the group draw for the 73rd World Cup, which is joint-hosted by the four nations of Stvoto Latoli, The Royal Kingdom of Quebec, San Jose Guayabal, and Apox. I'm Albert Kalev, and with me as always is Valentin Matej. Today, we will bring you the live coverage of the Qualifying Group Draw. Plenty of excitement and drama here, folks. Everyone will want to know who they'll be playing against and the online betting websites will have their hands full by the end of the night."
VALENTIN: "Yep, and the Polkopian team will surely be hoping for an easy group so they'll finally be able to move on past qualification for the first time in their history."
ALBERT: "Yeah, well only time can tell how Polkopia will do in this one."

Eura Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "The very first pot has just been drawn into their respective groups. Everyone will be looking to avoid Group 5 now."
VALENTIN: "Alright, now the second pot is coming up..."

Sandwich Territories Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "...And Yttribia is the one to fall into Pasarga's group."
VALENTIN: "Sucks to be them. But so far, Group 2 looks like first place will be heavily contested. Group 8 may be interesting as well."
ALBERT: "Can we just mention the fact that San Jose Guayabal and Gregoryisgodistan are in the same group?"
VALENTIN: "Ouch, that's rough. A bit funny and ironic, but rough nonetheless."

Polkopia Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "And we're in a group with Eura."
VALENTIN: "That's a hard pill to swallow."
ALBERT: "Yeah. Not sure how we'll fare against them, but maybe we'll be able to pull through against the Sandwich Territories, and if so, we can manage second place in the group."
VALENTIN: "Least we're not against Pasarga. We're just up against the second best. No big deal."
ALBERT: "Hell, we might be able to even beat Eura. You never really know with this sport, do you?"

Szavoda Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "And Szavoda is drawn with us, Eura, and Sandwich Territories. They may prove to be a tough opponent as well, what do you think?"
VALENTIN: "They might be, sure, but still, there's no reason Stenin can't lead the Polkopian team past them."
ALBERT: "Maybe, but as you said before, you never really know with this sport. I'd put my money on us to beat them too. Doesn't mean it'll happen though. Last time, we drew against Vettrera, a team we should've easily beaten, and we lost at home against Starblaydia."
VALENTIN: "Good point."

Norrehavn Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "From here on out, we have teams who we really should be able to beat. This team is no exception."
VALENTIN: "Let's peak on over to the other groups. See, in Group 16, we have quite the controversial group."
ALBERT: "Jerusalem and The Sword Bloke with Gregoryisgodistan and San Jose Guayabal? Oh, that can't end well..."
VALENTIN: "Maybe not, but it'll certainly be exciting to watch!"

Minecraft Miners Is Drawn Into Group 14

ALBERT: "Minecraft Miners joins us in Group 14."
VALENTIN: "Yeah... Again... I'll be rather shocked if we lose to these guys."
ALBERT: "Associated Godlands meanwhile, has also been drawn into Group 16. Honestly, I feel like these guys are rigging the draw to make this happen. No way is this a coincidence."
VALENTIN: "Better them than us, that's all I have to say."

New Mission Is Drawn Into Group 14

VALENTIN: "And that's the last of the teams to be sorted out into their respective groups. Polkopia has a challenge ahead, if they are to qualify for this prestigious tournament, but it's definitely not impossible."
ALBERT: "What is impossible, however, is nobody from any of the nations in the 16th group dying in the stands or on the pitch between now and when qualifying ends."
VALENTIN: "Right you are. And with that, that brings the end of the Group Draw for this World Cup. I'm Valentin Matej."
ALBERT: "And I'm Albert Kalev, goodnight everyone."

by **Gregoryisgodistan** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 11:50 am

Gregoryisgodistan Drawn Into Literal Group of Death

Gregoryisgodistan's Foot Slaves, coming off their first ever World Cup appearance, return to Qualifying having been drawn into the literal Group of Death. And we do mean literal, because there could very well be lots of death in this tournament. In addition to insignificant minnows Aeqamustopia and Natanians and Nosts, the Foot Slaves have been drawn with The Sword Bloke, led by Shop Owner the Lord Almighty Gregory wannabee, Associated Godlands, featuring a team of heathens who worship Eye-ee-zus and hate everyone who doesn't, their archnemesis San Jose Guayabal, and the pretty pretty naked princesses of Jeruselem. Let us examine these teams one by one, excluding the two minnows who nobody cares about who the Foot Slaves should easily dispose of four times.

The Sword Bloke, as we mentioned above, is led by Shop Owner. Shop Owner, who apparently owns a Kentucky Fried Chicken, is a Lord Almighty Gregory wannabee. He keeps threatening to nuke everyone while publicly executing people, but never has the guts to actually nuke anyone. Even in the Great War, he could have nuked our mutual enemies but chose not to, while Lord Almighty Gregory, in his infinite wisdom, nuked Hicana and San Jose Guayabal. But Shop Owner does publicly execute people, and could publicly execute his team if the Foot Slaves win. That would be awesome to watch. But it is no shame to lose to the Foot Slaves because they are a glorious and holy team who will one day control the World. Lord Almighty Gregory has blessed them, so now they will win World Cup 73. Lord Almighty Gregory has willed it, so it must be so.

Now on to Associated Godlands. Associated Godlands is ruled by Shirley Phelps Roper, the evil queen. Its soccer team claims to have a player claiming to be "Our Lord And Savior" Jesus Christ. Of course, Jesus Christ is dead, and is not, and never has been, our Lord and Savior. That honor goes to Lord Almighty Gregory. But that is, apparently, this heathen's legal name, so we must refer to him as such, albeit with little quote thingies. After all, it's not like that Riddick football player with the forbidden word first name. Those are all non-forbidden words, you just can't present it as a fact or that's blasphemy. But it will be interesting to see how he's introduced in Gregoryisgodistan when he walks onto the field. The Associated Godlands team will certainly be booed, and may even have gruel and prune juice thrown on them. I wouldn't be surprised. I also wouldn't be surprised if Enemy Crusher Fatty Footy tries to crush the "Savior". He's an Enemy Crusher and now he's starting. But Associated Godlands are heathens who worship a false God who claims to play for them and scores all the goals. Well, not against the Foot Slaves. Since nobody else is apparently capable of scoring a goal, Horse Beater KFIU9140 plans to have everyone except the goalie mark him when Associated Godlands have the ball, preventing him from getting it. And then once they try to pass it to him, someone will get the ball for the Foot Slaves and they'll counter. Alternatively, someone else will shoot and miss because the rest of them are beyond incompetent, and then it will be a goal kick after goalie gets it or it goes out. So we should win that game easily, and the one in that horrible land as well.

There are also our arch-nemeses, San Jose Guayabal's evildoers. This nation actually launched a nuclear attack against Gregoryisgodistan during the Great War, temporarily crippling us and sending us back to the Stone Age. Which never actually happened because the world was created 2014 years, 11 months, and six ays ago by Lord Almighty Gregory in his infinite wisdom. Creation Day is November 5 and should be a memorable time to remember Lord Almighty Gregory creating the Multiverse in November 5, Year 0000. But back on topic. San Jose Guayabal has apparently requested we play them in a stadium named for their evil Queen, Queen Margaret I. Also, the game will take place in the xylocarp (OOC: synonym for coconut, a forbidden word in GGS) capital of the country, Sonsonate. This is obviously done to anger the Foot Slaves, knowing that a certain fruity word is banned here. Well, we will not stand for it. I have it on good faith from a source close to the team that the Foot Slaves plan to smash xylocarps on the field before the game, and possibly even throw some at the Guaya Bean (OOC: derogatory term for citizen of SJG) fans. And that will be fun. They may also burn portraits or statues of Queen Margaret I at the stadium that bears her name. That would be fun as well. Queen Margaret is evil, San Jose Guayabal is evil, we nuked them once and are not afraid to do so again. Gregoryisgodistan will defeat the Guaya Beans, home and away. And our fans will show up in large numbers for the away match, cheering on their glorious team while heckling the Guaya Beans.

And that leaves the pretty pretty naked naked princesses. Well, they won't be naked in Gregoryisgodistan. Not if they want to live at least. Lord Almighty Gregory issued a statement today, a copy of which was sent to the Jeruselemite FA, warning that any naked players, coaches, fans, reporters, or others would be executed for their crimes. If they are male, they will first be dickapitated and castrated by a Pervert Chaser. But since the Pretty Pretty Naked Naked Princesses are female, they will be spared that fate and simply executed. After being given clothes, of course. (OOC: see note at bottom) But hopefully the Pretty Pretty Princesses show up at least reasonably clothed and are able to compete, at which point we will defeat them.

This should be a very exciting World Cup Qualifying, featuring the Literal Group of Death. Who will come out of it alive? We will be rooting for the Foot Slaves, as must all of you or you will die. Go Foot Slaves! All praise Lord Almighty Gregory!

OOC: See Discussion threat and TG I sent Jeru, we won't actually execute any naked Jeruselemites who are part of the official delegation unless they do something particularly flagrant (and nothing flagrant in the context of public nudity would comply with forum policy, so it's really a moot point as long as they don't also hold a Howard Stern-style farting contest or something like that) but they'll be immediately arrested, deported, and banned from reentry without being allowed to reach the stadium, so please follow the law.

by **San Llera** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 12:39 pm

The San Llera Player Ranking, Part 1
With the World Cup drawing near, who can we expect to step up for San Llera? Viva Dicce presents the first World Cup San Llera player rankings, numbers 23-11.

23. RB Amerigo
At 23rd, the worst player on the San Llera roster, is Amerigo. He's not bad. Just not great. Amerigo certainly wouldn't have been the worst player when San Llera played in the 58th Baptism of Fire, but times have changed and standards have been raised, and Amerigo is simply a step below the other players on this team. He is a pretty good crosser, but not at a Saragosa-level, and he's young. Marko Vujvic is very excited about this kid; young, talented players who seem eager to learn and who work hard are always liked by coaches. Next World Cup, this player likely will be much higher on this list. But for now, he's not good enough to be higher than 23rd.

22. GK Denis Thoda
The third-string goalkeeper for San Llera, and the player with the smallest chance of playing in this World Cup, is Denis Thoda. The former Chell SC man is, like Amerigo, a very promising player who could go on to start at his position in the future. Now at Cenial Liberty, Thoda is a solid player, but is still very raw. His reflexes are there. His length is there. Thoda has all the tools to be great, but he will remain near the bottom of this list until those tools start to come together.

21. LB Pau Milla
Milla is a great story but not necessarily a great player. Now playing for easy-to-root-for Cremando Llera, Milla became a professional at the age of 28, previously having been consigned to playing soccer on the street. Since then, he's emerged as a solid San League Soccer player. But let's be honest - if not for the incredibly shallow pool of players at left back, this player probably wouldn't be on the roster. San Llera have to hope that nothing serious happens to Jacque Olivier.

20. ST Bellemurillo
20th best on the San Lleran roster is another young player who will move higher on this list as time goes on. That player is free agent striker Bellemurillo, who scored a ton of goals in the Di Bradini Cup but hasn't assured anyone that he can score at higher levels. Bellemurillo has a rare combination of athleticism and intelligence, but unfortunately is a subpar finisher for his position. If he improves his shooting a bit, he will score buckets of goals at any level, but it might be several years before that becomes a reality.

19. LB Jacque Olivier
Illustrating the lack of good San Lleran left backs is the fact that the starter at the position is the 19th best player on the roster. Jacque Olivier isn't a great player. He's not bad either. In fact, he's pretty much the champion of mediocrity. Which is what San Llera will have to settle for at this position.

18. GK Marcel Fons
Had the events of the Copa Rushmori not occurred, Marcel Fons would definitely be higher on this list, perhaps even ahead of his older brother Chimo. But unfortunately for Marcel, and myself, previously one of his biggest supporters, the 27-year-old was given the starting position in that tournament. To me, and him, and Marko Vujvic, it was a fantastic opportunity for him to shine and permanently earn the position of starting goalkeeper for the San Llera National Team. Unfortunately, he did the opposite of shine, instead leaking 13 goals over 3 games and taking a major step back in his career. Most fans, including myself, thought that he would be a star by now, but he's still the 18th best player on the roster.

17. CB Robert Rivello
Robert Rivello, the backup center back, was ruled by myself as being the 12th best player participating in the last Di Bradini Cup, in which San Llera finished 4th. He is, as it turns out, not the 12th best player on San Llera's senior roster, rather 17th. Rivello is the cream of San Llera's Di Bradini crop, and an excellent player for his age. He is certainly willing to play with anybody at any age, and he will continue with his studs-up tackles and subtle elbow jabs no matter the level of the play. The older he gets, the fiercer he will be. Marko Vujvic can't wait for the future of this player, but he won't play too much now.

16. ST Oscar Potus
Someone not liked very much by San Lleran fans is Oscar Potus, who some feel lacks the talent necessary to make the squad. But aside any questions about talent, it is undeniable that Potus scores goals. He is a classic goal-poacher, finding pockets of space, finding opportunities, and converting them. When fans see his goals on TV, the chances he scored off of are often so easy that fans could have easily converted. But what makes Potus special is how he finds those chances. As long as he's finding chances and scoring goals, fans can't say anything. Recent slumps knock him down to 16th, but this guy takes too much flak for a good player.

15. RW Guifre Gil
If he wasn't always injured, Guifre Gil would likely be a top 10 play on this list. Alas, he is always injured, and hence is 15th. Gil is an incredibly exciting player when healthy, speeding around or nutmegging through defenders, back heeling and rain bowing and all that other fancy stuff. If only he was healthy more often.

14. Marc Abello
Briefly one of the best five players on San Llera, too much of Marc Abello's career has been consumed by injuries for him to be a mainstay starter for San Llera. He was a defensive prodigy as a teenager, but went on to spend ten years constantly injured, nearly paralyzed, and diagnosed as never being able to play the game again at 25. But he slowly worked his way into form, and eventually played like a healthy player. He was then called up to San Llera's World Cup squad two cups in a row, starting nearly every game in the second. He now is heading into his third, but is too old to start. some go the pace and power he regained is gone, and he will, sadly, ride the pine for most of this qualification.

13. CM Oscar Cardona
Oscar Cardona is a slightly worse version of Enric Bou, which is pretty good. Cardona is a young central midfielder with beautiful passing and too much intelligence for his age. Unfortunately, Bou is that too, except slightly better and two years younger. Oscar Cardona is an excellent player, and he will have a successful club career, but he may never start for the San Llera National Team.

12. ST Jan Capo
Jan Capo is young, talented, and somewhat a hothead, having been suspected for the drug-induced murder of a a man outside of a nightclub. When interviewed about him, Marko Vujvic stated, "he leaves all that behind when on the field". Vujvic better hope his starting striker does, because there are even bigger concerns. Capo, who began his San Llera career very young, seemingly has not progressed at all in terms of talent in the past 4+ years. He'll score a few goals in this tournament, but Vujvic needs him to break out.

11. CDM Teodor Alemany
If Oscar Cardona is the lite version of Enric Bou, then Alemany is that of Hector Fonda. Except in this version. Alemany is the truly elite one of the two, and four years younger. Teodor starred in San League Soccer and the Di Bradini Cup, and is now loping to bring his success to Klyde in Cosumar. Already a starting-quality center mid, Alemany is still behind Fonda and will be for a while but is developing into a star, ruthlessly halting opposing attacks.

That is it for Part 1! Stay tuned for the top 10 in the second and final part.

by **Dreamplanet** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 1:36 pm

DTV.com - World Cup Qualfier News

Dreamplanet's Group.

11th October 2015/11th October 2001 (Dreamplanet years)

Today was the World Cup Qualifier group pots, we were expecting hell to come over but no, apparently we got in a non group of death (not group 16) and we have been set in a group which we are not sure if it will be hard for us, now we're still a bit upset about our early exit of the BoF 60 after just escaping the group stage, now, we are facing fellow WorldVision competitors The Sarian, Barunia and Britonisea. Enough to call it home? we're not sure. How is Dreamplanet gonna go? I guess we gotta "Dream" that we can do it.

In other news
F Aaron Hungar is even more popular in FC Libon after he refused an offer from Sporting CD.
F Sporting CD Manager joins Adina CF which leaves the Sporting CD seat vacant
W Dreamplanet finish in a record 17th after recieving 42 points (10 points in the last round of voting).
B New Gelderland wins the BoF 60 after winning Fluvique 3-2.
WCQ World Cup Qualifier Stadiums are selected for Dreamplanet, see here.

by **Free Republics** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 7:31 pm

Sporting World

Rule Theriault Strikes Back!
by: Angelina Zito

The legend has returned. Yes, in just a few days, Rule Theriault, the greatest manager in the history of international soccer, will once again lead his Republican National Soccer Team onto the pitch to face a World Cup opponent. While it is just Herberland, a minnow whom nobody has ever heard of, it is still a World Cup opponent. I know absolutely nothing about Herpaderpaland or whatever they're supposed to be called and I don't give a flying fuck what they call themselves because I can't name a single player who plays for them (and I bet you can't either

). Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if they were a bunch of male chauvinist pigs who need to be taught how to respect strong, independent, women like us Republican girlz.

Well, this year's Republican National Team will feature a heroic young woman by the name of Connie Chase. Connie was kept off of the team for the past 2 years due to the misogyny of Petrus Fadius. In the meantime, she became an absolutely dominant player for Trojana Condommakers in the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. Trojana products, of course, were banned by that woman-hater Reino Kulseth as part of his War against our Reproductive Health. Well, after living under that awful Holy Misogynist Empire for a few years, I'm thanking the Great Goddess [Violet], who created this Multiverse, that Republican Women aren't gonna take that shit no more.

But, I digress. I'm supposed to be talking about Kyle Bolton, Koby Theodore, Levai Imre, Connie Chase and the rest of Theriault's team. As always, they look great and have a real chance of winning it all this year. Journalists throughout the multiverse have been saying that every year since their breakthrough performance at the Greatest World Cup of All Time: World Cup 68. World Cup 68 was a glorious day for our nation, as we told everybody that we were the Best in the Multiverse and we proved it night in and night out until we had to go to Legalese to face Vilita in the Final at a neutral site. We needed just 1 more win to cement our place as the unquestioned Best, but on that night, everything went wrong and our nation went into shock. Soon, both Consuls lay dead and the "Holy" Party would rise to power, claiming to do the Will of God. Well, everybody knows that the Gods kneel at the feet of the Goddesses on a nightly basis. Indeed, Margaret, the Goddess of Sport, loves to humiliate those who worship the so-called "One True God" Eye-ee-zus. Well, even Gregory Almighty, the least of the mighty Gods, was able to swat away the followers of Eye-ee-zus Chree-ztus with barely any effort, so worshiping that dead fraud did us absolutely no good whatsever!

Well now we have Consul Nicholls in power, but it is about damned time that we put a woman in our highest office. Yes, I Stand With Sibylla. Sibylla has spent her whole life fighting for women and girls and now there is a New Path that needs to be laid. By the way, if you don't own a copy of New Path yet, click either of those links and buy one for yourself. Even if you already own New Path, be sure to click the link anyway. By doing so, you'll help increase its ShoppingZoo ranking and more people will buy it! (OOC: She's lying. These links actually refer people to ShoppingZoo so that they'll give Sporting World a cut of the proceeds.) More importantly, make sure you vote for Sibylla in the coming elections because she's spend her life fighting for Progressive causes and it is time for out nation to go down a new, more Progressive, path. Besides, its long past time that we started to do something to bring about Reproductive Justice, Economic Justice, Environmental Justice and every other kind of Justice other than the boring and lame unhyphenated kind.

But back to soccer. The second opponent for the Republican National Team is Banija, another nobody from the BoF. If you can make it to the MilaneseDome in Wortana, you can see them on the second matchday. By the way, before I forget to mention it, Herbertlandia will be playing on the Islands of Falatulu at the IslandDome on the eighth matchday. This gives Rule Theriault's Republicans an excuse to have some fun on the islands that never stop partying during the mid-qualifying break. Third up for us is a visit to Frenline Delpha. Frenline Delpha isn't even in Rushmore or Atlantiania Ocean [sic], much less the Great Region of Esportiva where all of the truly great nations are. Seriously, those Delphiends need to be taught some respect for their betters because they just suck compared to us and everybody knows it. Seriously, fuck this group. After visiting Frenline Delpha, of all places, Rule Theriault's team gets a much-needed break from the Group of Suck. Then, they'll get another much-needed bye after Frenline Delpha visits the Soccer Palace and 111 thousand screaming Republican fans.

Post-bye, the first opponent on our schedule is Ceni, who will be visiting Olympic Stadium. You know, I sort of like Ceni because they're like the only opponent in the group that I even half-like. They're ranked 48th and are one of the best third seeds in this cycle. Yes, they're actually a serious opponent and the fans at Olympic Stadium should be in for 90 minutes of good soccer. Still, I honestly can't remember them ever qualifying for the World Cup before, so they may not really be much of a threat.

Unfortunately, the Republicans will have to play fucking HopNation yet again. HopNation is famous for making the World Cup at their expense in World Cup 70, providing Kulseth with the pretense he needed to steal Rule Theriault's property! HopNation would go on to fluke their way to the semi-finals. In the past 2 cycles, they've fallen back to their natural place in the multiverse. Like the greatest physician (or whatever you call a professional physics scientist) who ever lived said, things return to their natural place in the universe. That's just the way things are, so don't argue with that. That is like so all I remember from Physics class because that class was boring as fuck. Like, seriously, why did I ever take that class as an elective? Sure, it sounded like fun, but it was too much work that got in the way of drinking and having sex with as many studs as I could find, Consul Kulseth be damned! Well, if you want to watch HopNation for some reason I cannot fathom, you can see them at Nejan Stadium in the Great Republic of Nejax. As far as this Nejan is concerned, they messed with Nejax when they screwed Rule Theriault out of his property for 2 years!

The final Republican opponent is Matthewsiania, who are ranked in the top 100. However, I don't know shit about them and I don't feel like looking that stuff up because I want to finish this article and hang out with my friends, so just know that you can see them, whoever they are, in Republica at the Gem of the Oceans Stadium. World Cup soccer starts soon. Be sure to check it out and be sure to drink plenty of Dixon Light while you're watching soccer! Because It Ain't a Party if you Ain't Got No Dixon Light!

Angelina Zito is a recent graduate of the University of Nejax School of Journalism and our new international soccer correspondent. A former high school soccer player at Yellow Bay High School in Yellow Bay, Vorita, Angelina attended the University of Nejax on a scholarship but was unable to participate in college soccer due to the sexist policies of the Holy Party. Focusing on her studies, she graduated with a 4.0 grade point average in her journalism courses and served as the Secretary of the Student Government for 3 academic years. Like a true blue-blooded Republican girl, Angelina loves partying, having fun and getting wasted every night!

by **United States of Devonta** » Sun Oct 11, 2015 7:57 pm

Loss of the Century
_{Higher ranking Devontan team falls to unranked Armian team in Emperor Cup One finals}

United States of Devonta 1-1 (1-1 AET) (2-3 pen.) Unified Armeia

United States of Devonta (4-4-2 Diamond): Cooper, Brooks, Benton, Kindred, Liam, Russell, Abdullah, Edwards, Owens, Johansen, Adams
Unified Armeia (4-1-2-2-1): Jordyn, Ivo, Fertig, Sander, Berringer, Bayer, Michel, Abrammson, Toure, Hamsik, Dragic

Quick Stats:
54% Possessions, 10 Shots, 6 on goal
46% Possessions, 7 Shots, 5 on goal

Goals:
Johansen (30', P), Abdullah (P)
Cruz (76', P), Toure (P), Byquist (P)

CAUTIONED: --NONE--
EJECTED: --NONE--

Table: N/A

Schedule:
MD1: United States of Devonta 3-0 Unified Armeia
MD2: United States of Devonta 2-0 Kaboomlandia
MD3: United States of Devonta 1-0 Migli
QF: United States of Devonta 2-0 95X
SF: United States of Devonta 0-0 (1-1 AET) (4-3 pen.) Frenline Delpha

Other Games: Abanhfleft 2-1 Frenline Delpha
----Match Summaries: The Final----

Finals | Unified Armeia | Unranked | @Ostianae Magnaem Centre, Heiwa, Kirishima | 80,493 attendance | Ref. TBA
The Emperor Cup One final was the most anticipated sporting event in the empire of Kirishima for some time. The two best teams throughout the tournament were going head to head in front of the emperor of Kirishima Masahi Shirakawa and Devontan president Josiah Jones who made a surprise visit to observe the game and his Devontan players play. Both teams came from Group D, Unified Armiea and the United States of Devonta.

WIP

by **Witty Penguins** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 12:51 am

FOOTBALL: World Cup Qualifying Groups Announced, AUWP in Group 16

12 October 2015

Football representatives from 140 countries were waiting anxiously earlier today for the announcement of the qualifying groups for the 73rd World Cup. For those in the lower ranked teams, the wait would have been especially nerve-wracking. They knew that inevitably, a team ranked in the top 24 would be standing in their way regardless. But it was a matter of exactly how highly ranked that team was. And among that crowd of low-ranked teams was the Penguinish team, who, like most of the Pot 6 group, were fresh out of the recent Baptism of Fire. Though they had failed to advance past the group stage, the Penguins were still able to secure a draw, as well as a surprising victory over New Gelderland - the team who would later go on to win the tournament. The Penguinish side had also departed with a world rank of 258, a small piece of credit to their name, but nonetheless, it places them higher than 24 other teams in tournament, and on equal ranking with a further 5 teams.

When it came to Pot 6's turn to find out their fate, Penguinish supporters and representatives would have been on the edges of their seats. Groups 1, 5, 14 and (worst of all,) 16 would certainly be death sentences for the team's dreams, with each group holding one of the world's top 3 teams. Ultimately, to some relief, Witty Penguins was placed in Group 18 - not the worst outcome no doubt, but Richard Peak and his team would have preferred a better outcome. Saintland, ranked 14th, is their biggest opponent in the Group. However, also in the ring is New Gelderland (166th), who will definitely be seeking to avenge their 2-1 defeat against the Penguins in the Baptism of Fire. And with their boost in self-esteem from winning the tournament, the Penguinish team will have to work hard to break through their defenses again. But not all is bad however, with the un-ranked Cuboneland likely to be easy game for the side.

Though the statistics may not be in our favour, it's not to say that luck isn't either. The World Cup is a tournament of shock, surprises, and miracles. If their determination is as strong as their hearts, the Penguinish players could potentially pull again another surprise or two this time. And unlike in the Baptism of Fire, the team will play 6 of its matches at Unitia City Stadium, and will be able to enjoy the support of a proper home crowd for once. But only time will tell, and the team has an intense fortnight ahead of them, having to play each team twice. The group match schedule for the team is:

OCTOBER 15: New Gelderland v Witty Penguins
OCTOBER 16: Bye
OCTOBER 17: Witty Penguins v United States of Devonta
OCTOBER 18: Abanhfleft v Witty Penguins
OCTOBER 19: Witty Penguins v Maklohi Vai
OCTOBER 20: Cuboneland v Witty Penguins
OCTOBER 21: Witty Penguins v Saintland
OCTOBER 23: Witty Penguins v New Gelderland
OCTOBER 24: Bye
OCTOBER 25: United States of Devonta v Witty Penguins
OCTOBER 26: Witty Penguins v Abanhfleft
OCTOBER 27: Maklohi Vai v Witty Penguins
OCTOBER 28: Witty Penguins v Cuboneland
OCTOBER 29: Saintland v Witty Penguins

by **Szavoda** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:47 pm

NS' longest, most drawn-out RP lines returns for it's third WC, and we haven't touched halfway yet. Hold onto your hats.

continued from here

Katarina's homeland felt different. For the first 22 years of her life, she'd felt a certain sense of humble pride about Szavoda - yes, it was imperfect, but it was a special brand of imperfect. But now, working for a Euran firm, under the control of Eurans, working alongside Eurans, with the prime opposition being her countrymen, she felt a certain tinge of sadness - the flaws of her country seemed to press further to the front of her mind: the poor governance, the rampant social ills, the terrible weather, and the things she had held dear seemed more insignificant.

The weather, as usual, was poor as the cargo jet thundered into Szavoda airspace over the northern border of Eura. The plane banked through sheets of grey cloud, and the windows were criss-crossed with streaks of rain. The landing was smooth, if agricultural, and tentatively the technical staff began to unload the numerous crates which were stacked in the latter half of the hold. Katarina was the last to leave the compartment, re-packing her bag a second time, before she stepped out of the door and into the spring air. It was warm, and the air was heavy with rain. She handed her bag to a technician, who placed it along with the others in the back of an on-waiting Clyne SUV, which had been driven up separately. Katarina met up with Molly, who gave the team a quick briefing before the team from Harther arrived. She’d drawn a crude map on the back of some official document of the route they were taking, and a table which allocated various shifts to be on protection duty, and when they could work perimeter duty and generally relax, or if it were between 11pm and 5am, sleep. Katarina scanned for her name. She winced slightly when she saw it; on protection duty from 1am to 6am. But surely the head of the Harther team would be asleep at this time. She raised this point.

“Yeah, but when would be the most opportune moment to attack? When he’s asleep. You’ll just be on guard outside his quarters.”

The other members of the squad arrived shortly after and they split off into their operational squads. The other two members besides Molly and Katarina were Garfield, who wore an oversized camo sunhat and mirror sunglasses, and Fjordor, the Polarian giant, whose facial features looked rougher than ever. He nodded gruffly to the trio. Molly led them over to one of the crates, whose lid was removed by a technician, revealing a cache of assault weapons. The technician took out one rifle after another and handed them to each of the squad. Katarina took hers and weighted it in her hands. She looked it up and down; it was a modern, Euran model, far superior to the rusted Communist relics which she was equipped with back in the army in Szavoda. It was sleek, with a fancy curved stock and a scope which looked like something out of science fiction.

“Top of the range” The technician said “Off the production line in the spring. They’re slowly going to replace the old one with this one as the Euran standard battle rifle. Clip of 40 rounds, semi-automatic and automatic modes.”

The technician did a quick demonstration of the rifle, raising it to his shoulder and squeezed the trigger. The gun fired off several blank shots, clicking emptily. Katarina did the same thing, getting used to the feeling of the rifle in her grip. The rifles they used back in the army were clunky, outdated contraptions which sat awkwardly in any grip and had a habit of overheating after only a brief period of fire. She took the strap of the rifle and hauled it over her shoulder, before taking a handgun from the crate and placing it in the shoulder holster which she wore. Most army personnel preferred the hip holster, but Katarina was convinced it allowed her quicker reaction times, and it was concealed better. She slid a couple of clips into her backpack, and attached a third one to her belt. She then followed Molly off to a small bluff away from the airstrip, which overlooked a chain-link fence which surrounded the compound. There was a road which tracked through the forest around the airstrip, coming to a small booth to the right of the bluff, allowing entry to the compound. They talked for a moment, before Molly pointed out a small shape in the sky.

“That must be our guys. Arriving by chopper.”
“Looks like. Apparently their lead guy is an asshole.”
“Probably. But it’s your job to keep him alive. You’ve got to set aside your personal distaste for people to survive in this job. One time on Op in Eura, the guy we were guarding kept coming onto me, really creepily, and I just wanted to put a bullet in his head myself, but you've gotta calm yourself.”

The shape arrived, slowly forming into a helicopter, it’s blades slicing through the autumn air. It ducked to just above the tree-level where it hovered above a patch of open grass to the side of the airstrip. It kicked up a storm of leaves and dust as it touched down, the door opening almost instantly. Molly and Landen greeted the two men who got off the vehicle, one of whom presumably being Hardy. He was a tall man, with a slender figure, and an almost intimidating aura about him. He had shortly-cropped hair, like someone out of the army, and his eyes were hidden by sunglasses, but an unfazed expression showed his emotions bluntly: this was work. Katarina stood with Fjodor and Garfield, the latter of whom had lit up a cigarette; something apparently not against the rules. Molly led Hardy across the airstrip towards the group, where Hardy was introduced to the three. He had a cold, hard handshake, and he didn't remove his sunglasses.

“Mr. Hardy, this is your personal detail, Fjordor Jensen, Garfield James and Katarina Krevic. Ms. Krevic is a Szavda national and is our link to the inside. She’s assisted by Lauren Nichols, who’s on the perimeter detail.”

Hardy remained silent, eyeing up each of the detail from behind his sunglasses. It was difficult to put an accurate figure on his age, he could have just turned 30, or he could be pushing 60. By his side was another man in a dark suit, with identical sunglasses. He muttered something in Hardy’s ear. He nodded. The other man returned to the helicopter where he unloaded a couple of bags, and was followed by two men and a woman, all in their fifties and possessing that same hardened business exterior as Hardy. The other three went off with Lauren and her team, whilst Hardy and his aide remained with Molly and her team.

“Sir, if you’d please follow me to our SUV, we’re on a tight schedule.”

Hardy said nothing, rather nodded to his aide, who hauled up the two bags and followed Molly to the SUV. Their section of the convoy had two vehicles, the lead one, which would be the third in the four-vehicle convoy, and the driver snapped open the door to allow the Harther executive to enter. The driver took the bags from the aid and dropped them in the boot of the vehicle.

“Ms. Krevic, can you ride shotgun, we need you to read street signs for us.”
“Sure.”

The driver opened the front door and Katarina climbed in. The interior of the vehicle was dark, and where the centre console would normally be, there was a metallic rack, designed to hold the rifles, and Katarina placed hers in there, before removing her pistol and placing it on the dashboard. In the back, Hardy entered, followed by Fjodor. Molly and Garfield were riding in the final car in the convoy. There were two cars in front of them in the convoy, the front of which was adapted to have a mounted machine-gun on the back, in which an operative was stood, leaning on the rim of the opening, smoking. Katarina removed her baseball cap and took the clip out of her hair, shaking it outwards from the bun. The driver turned the key and the engine roared into life and the convoy began to move off out of the airfield. Katarina gripped and ungripped her hand from the butt of her pistol subconsciously as she watched the grey Szavda landscape roll by. Her mind raced with a sea of thoughts, all her loyalties called into question. She was about to go to war against her countrymen, she thought, and whilst it was strictly work, it felt unsettling. Of course, she let none of this seep through to her exterior, her eyes hidden behind sunglasses, and she spoke only in clipped English to the driver. The highway itself, built by Communist government as a through-fare through the country, running west to east but hadn't taken into account connecting roads on either side, so it took forever from the major cities to reach. The driver had unfurled a map and placed it on the dashboard and pointed a circled village on the map: Kirkecjeza.

“Keep an eye out for street signs, I can’t read shit.”

Katarina stared straight ahead and nodded. About an hour passed before a sign for the village appeared, on the smaller, regional signpost as opposed to the national signposts. They turned off the deserted highway and came onto a single track road with high hedgerows on either side. They drove for a further 10 minutes, when the convoy ground to a halt. There was a confused silence, before the radio crackled through.

“Err, Katarina, we’ve got a car coming down the other way, can you have a word with them?”

She looked at the driver, then at Fjodor, and they both nodded. She nodded back and opened the door of the car, making sure to holster her handgun but left her assault rifle. She stepped out into the moist summer air. There were flecks of rain in the air, and she pulled the baseball cap low over her eyes. She passed the two cars further ahead and came to the front of the convoy. There was a small, battered vehicle facing her. She raised a hand in greeting to the truculent man behind the steering wheel. She waited a second, the man didn’t move, so she removed her cap and walked over to the vehicle. She leant down and knocked on the window, and the man begrudgingly lowered it.

“What the fuck are you city types doing all the way out here?” He said gruffly.
Katarina smiled “We’re not from the city.”
“Then who are you?”

She paused. She flicked back to the convoy, where Molly looked questioningly at her from the front seat of the lead vehicle.

“We’re from the Army, Special Defence.” She lied. She reached into her back pocket and brought out her wallet, presenting the man with her now defunct Military Identification card. He scrutinised it.

“What are Special Defence doing down here?”
“Just standard stuff, following up leads and the like. But sir, we’re going to need you to reverse, we have to get this convoy through.”

The man nodded and obliged, shifting his ancient car into reverse. Katarina thanked him and walked back to the convoy. Molly lowered her window as she passed.

“What did you say; he was pretty insistent he wasn't going to move.”
“Just told him we were Szavda army, showed him my old ID. If there’s one thing all Szavdas have in common, it’s respect for their armed forces.”
“Nice work” Molly smiled. “Head on back, we've got a schedule to stay on.”

by **Vers-Gelderland** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:54 pm

OOC: This RP is over the final of the Baptism of Fire.

New Gelderland vs Fluvique: Report

It was one of the toughest challenges of their Baptism of Fire career - yet the New Gelderland team managed to prevail in a tense thriller over Fluvique in a magnificent three to two win to win the trophy of the Baptism of Fire 60. It was an amazing moment of celebration for the Rushmoris as they won the trophy in front of a packed stadium in Bastion, Eura, relatively close - when considering the vast distances of the multiverse - to their hometowns in New Gelderland, and the nation where football is one of the most popular sports erupted in celebration. Yet it almost never happened as Fluvique pulled out some of its best football for the final, scoring a late goal and missing a chance - just barely - to equalize and go to extra time. However, New Gelderland pulled out some of its best football as well, and even though touted goalkeeper Eliot Horn conceded five goals throughout the competition - and two during this match - the defensive capabilities and opportunistic play still held out.

It all started with a bang as Fluvique - determined to win the cup for their supporters at home, fiercely patriotic - found a way to infiltrate the New Gelderlish midfield with short, clinical passes. Witty Penguins had used the same strategy to much effect - scoring their two goals off of those kinds of passes - and New Gelderland though they had developed a response to the tactic. However, their efforts were to no avail, as Fluvique rushed around the field, passing to a teammate close by every time New Gelderland thought they had a good opportunity to dispossess Fluvique. They further managed to get around New Gelderland's defense by making use of angles, angles, angles with their short passes. Making it to the penalty area, Fluvique passed around until Fede had a nice shot at the goal, sending it into the left corner - barely - straight pass the outstretched arms of Eliot Horn.

It took a while for Fluvique to penetrate the defense, but they did it - and they looked to do it again. However, New Gelderland had other ideas in mind and they took control of the ball off of a long pass by Fluvique. New Gelderland then took the opportunity to head forward into the Fluvique area of the pitch, but Henry Mhago won the ball fairly and stopped New Gelderland's advance. In spite of this concession, though, New Gelderland found a way to dispossess Fluvique's Sam Gonza in the midfield, turning the tables back in its favor. Louis Rhodes marched forward with the offense along with right midfielder Jamie Wolf and they sent the ball flying down the sideline. However, Fluvique knocked the ball out of bounds so the ref motioned for a corner kick. Rhodes took the kick; Luke Virgo passed and crossed to Ben Griffin, who nodded the ball in. New Gelderland had equalized.

A pitched (but thankfully not bloody) struggle erupted for control of the midfield as the crowd egged both teams on to be more aggressive. However, it seemed like neither team wanted to head much into the other's territory as both had defenses of iron and attacks of steel - meaning that anyone with control of the ball would get dispossessed and his team would be now on the defensive rather than a battle of equals in the midfield. Louis Rhodes made a good run down Fluvique's territory but was tackled by Gabriel Varelovsky; Varelovsky sent the ball back to the midfield, where the stealing, advancing, and then counter-stealing battle continued with no real winner emerging when the whistle for half-time ran. New Gelderland and Fluvique both knew that one goal would be enough to win the battle, yet one blunder or mistake could cost the team the match and the trophy - therefore both teams knew they had to be opportunistic in the second half, with no room for attacks that left the flank open or strategic blunders of any kind.

The second half started much the same as the first half - yet it was New Gelderland doing the advancing this time as they decided to adopt the tactic of short passes that had worked against them so well in the past - with the use of the tactic by Fluvique a strong reminder of its efficacy. Cory Morgan-Brown led the charge with this new strategy, receiving and sending quite a few passes as the team advanced down the midfield and into Fluvique's defensive zone. Morgan-Brown, though, found himself surrounded by numerous defenders and sent a long shot into the top half of the goal. Surprisingly, this shot made it into the top half of the goal, above the head of Fluvique goalkeeper Andy Paribas. It was an extremely shocking goal - Morgan-Brown had no idea that he was actually going to make the goal, and such a low percentage shot would not have normally been attempted. Nonetheless, New Gelderland got lucky.

Fluvique, determined to make up for the lucky goal, seemed to attack now with a vengeance and wanted to regain lost ground. But unfortunately for them their attack failed as New Gelderland was able to gain the advantage with a nice steal from Harry Landis, who passed the ball to his younger brother Ian in the midfield. With Fluvique's midfield out of position, hoping to capitalize on their advancement, New Gelderland had the perfect opportunity to capitalize themselves with a good counterattack. Again New Gelderland used the strategy of the short passes to send the ball straight through the Fluvique line, but they also added on the tactic of sending the ball along the sideline to force set pieces if the Fluvique team managed to send the ball out. By this time, Ben Griffin had become a little bit tired and his stamina was flagging, so manager Ross substituted in striker slash left winger Tom Auros, of Greek descent, in his place.

Auros soon proved himself in the fray. After Luke Virgo received a pass from Louis Rhodes, he shot wide to the right of the goal, sending goalkeeper Paribas in that direction as well. But Auros, catching a good tactical drift, sent the ball into the open part of the net instead. It was a classic feint, pulled off with two young strikers - Virgo twenty-two and Auros only nineteen, showing the youngsters' knowledge of the game and good tactical eye that caught David Ross's attention in calling them up for the national team. And the youngsters still have at least five more World Cups to go, so they'll be easily able to pass on their skills and tactics to the next generation of New Gelderlish footballers. However, a lot of the minds of New Gelderland's football players was still focused on the now - preventing Fluvique from coming back to win the match.

Fluvique, however, did not have that particular though on their minds. Instead, they were thinking exactly the thing that New Gelderland hoped to avoid - a comeback from three goals to one to win the Baptism of Fire championship. They wanted it bad - but New Gelderland did too, and New Gelderland wasn't willing to go down with a fight. In fact, they probably weren't willing to go down at all. They wanted the Baptism of Fire trophy as well, especially in front of Eura, their close regional neighbor and Rushmori friend. Yet it was Fluvique who started to dominate play after New Gelderland's third goal. Their defense suddenly shut like a clamp - New Gelderland could no longer get through. And their offense was starting to pick apart New Gelderland's famously strong defense, exploiting a multitude of gaps as well as holes in the formation.

Their work was not in waste - as fifteen minutes remained on the clock Fluvique still remained in force. Sam Gonza moved forward and passed the ball forward to Adam Wilde, who passed back to fellow striker Fede. Fede shot, but goalkeeper Horn managed to get his gloves on it and send it flying away. However, Fluvique didn't want to give up that easily and looked to mount another attack on New Gelderland's goal. Adam Wilde got control of the ball and sent it flying to the goal, but again, Horn stopped any notions from the Fluvique team that they were going to score a goal. It looked like, though, Fede still had some of those notions, and he fired off an angle to the right of Horn. Horn, again, stymied the kick, but Sam Gonza moved in to send the ball into the left of the goal, finally ending the parade of saves.

Fluvique, however, was still a goal down with eight minutes remaining on the clock, and they badly wanted to force the game into extra time. Learning some lessons from the strategy in the last seven minutes, they attempted to score another creative goal by feinting, trickery, or any other means for that matter to give them another chance to win the match. However, New Gelderland's defense, including right back Liam Kirkpatrick, proved too strong, with Kirkpatrick blocking a Gonza shot, sending it far away. After a period of time where New Gelderland had the ball, though, Fede ran the ball down, drew Eliot Horn away from the goal, and almost scored - yet his shot bounced off the crossbar and Jason Rogue cleared the ball away.

The final whistle blew and New Gelderland had won the sixtieth Baptism of Fire. The victory capped a very good run on the Baptism of Fire, with only one loss and five goals conceded. New Gelderland erupted into ecstatic celebration - the players hugged each other and shouted and jumped in celebration, while David Ross congratulated the players from Fluvique for a job well done. Not only had Fluvique played well throughout the entire tournament, they had almost pulled off a comeback and sent the game into extra time, and who knows what the result could have been then. Despite Fluvique's immediate disappointment at coming away without the winner's trophy, though, they still were confident about their World Cup chances and knew that they had good things to come for them in the future. New Gelderland knew that the future would be bright as well - yet there were challenges to face and obstacles to overcome. New Gelderland knew - and knows - it can overcome those obstacles.

by **San Llera** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 9:57 pm

The San Llera Player Ranking, Part 2
I the second part of the San Llera Player Rankings, Viva Dicce brings you the top 10 players on San Llera's roster.

10. GK Chimo Fons
A player of wide public disagreement in San Llera is Chimo Fons. While some fans think of him as a star who should be near the top of this list, others seem to think that he should have been thrust out of the starting spot ages ago, and has no place in the top 10. We here at Viva Dicce have decided to split the difference. Fons is far from perfect, but he's reliable, and not a terrible option at goalkeeper.

9. CB Alexandre De Gonia
"The Soviet Swan" Alexandre De Gonia once treated this reporter to a fine meal at a fancy Esportivan-style restaurant in Llerana. The Guayabalense pork dish with a prune reduction was awful, but I was quite shocked with the etiquette of De Gonia. When you see him on the pitch, it's difficult to imagine such a dirty, aggressive player would be so polite and gentle face-to-face. If De Gonia mixed a little of that politeness - just a little - maybe he could have been better, as cards have become a problem. But beyond that, being feared by strikers is about as high of an honor as you can get as a center back.

8. CB Gerard Quella
The partner of Alexandre De Gonia and his polar opposite is Gerard Quella, who comes just above him at 8th. Quella doesn't show nearly the aggression De Gonia does, and he's been criticized for being too soft. However, he makes it up with other qualities, mainly his awareness and passing ability. The Scottopia City man is an incredible distributor of the ball, and is always at the right place at the right time, things that De Gonia could use to learn how to do.

7. LW Pelechamchas
The most lovable, and surprisingly talented, player you'll find on San Llera is most certainly Pelechamchas. His blazing speed and joy with which he plays the game is only rivaled by his highly entertaining sideline interviews. He has a habit of matter-of-factly stating how great he is at soccer and then proving it on the field. Pelechamchas dribbling the ball is far faster than any defender, and his strategy usually revolves around dribbling past everyone. Once he has done that, he can shoot or cross the ball pretty well. Unfortunately for him and most fans, not quite as well as Martini Saragosa, who you'll meet soon. Pelechamchas is easily the highest backup on this list.

6. RB Antoni Belles
Playing in the Northern Sunrise Islands is Antoni Belles, a speedy, exciting, and talented right back. Belles, at times, is the most potent offensive threat San Llera has, despite his status as a defender. He makes bursting runs up and down the wings, sending in dangerous crosses or even shooting on goal. Belles does need to work a little on tracking back defensively, as many opposing goals have been scored without him in sight, but when he turns on, he turns on, and impossible to defend.

5. LW Martini Saragosa
Martini Saragosa, currently (and always) playing for AS Mantegapa, has thirteen career assists for San Llera by far the record, in 41 caps, which is tied for the lead. A veteran of San Lleran soccer and perhaps even a future manager (as speculated by Marko Vujvic), Saragosa is wise and a terrific passer of the ball. He may not be speedy like his backup, but Martini Saragosa can pass the ball anywhere on the pitch he'd like, and he has the vision to find the perfect spot. Once again, his speed handicaps his defensive skills, but all the times he's set up goals easily makes up for that.

4. ST Carles Mestre
Carles Mestre is, by nature, a very streaky striker, and he had a good streak during World Cup 72. After a poor 71, Mestre's 72 was highlighted by a hat trick versus The Holy Empire and boosted his goal tally to 17 in 38 caps, not bad for someone who stands just 65 inches off the ground. The leading scorer in San Lleran soccer history and second in San League Soccer history, the only reason he's not number 1 is San Llera's lack of reliance on strikers. Though if 73 is anything like the last, he may very well be the best player.

3. CDM Hector Fonda
When foreigners think of San Llera, many think of hatred of the color red or fine cheeses. But soccer fans, like we here, think of something else: tough defensive midfielders. Unafraid CDM's have been a staple of San Lleran soccer since time immemorial (BOF 58, that is), and Fonda is the epitome of all that. He is hard-working and completely unfazed by any challenge thrown his way, even if it means going to battle against Timo Skye or Laborious Hawk or whatnot. He plays up to his competition, and will go toe-to-toe with anybody. If only the same could be said for the entire national team.

2. RW Don Llorens
At number 2 is somebody who will certainly cause a lot of controversy with his placement not at number 1. That person is legend of San Lleran soccer, Don Llorens. Llorens is an all-around superstar, the captain of San Llera, a brilliant and kind person in real life, a success story. And we can't deny that he is very good, because he is very good. At pretty much everything. But at this age, he has been eclipsed by Enric Bou.

1. CM Enric Bou
Finally, we arrive at number 1. San Llera, if I do say so myself, has a lot of good players, but none quite as good as Enric Bou. Still just 22 years old, Bou is the best player in San Llera now and is poised to be one of the best in San Lleran history. He is precise on the ball, hitting each pass very methodically but also perfectly. He swiftly and easily slides the ball past defenders, making them seem as if they are playing in slo-mo. He sees everything, from Belles running dow the right side to Fons ordering De Gonia forward. And his shots are powerful, with just the right touch. He is Enric Bou.

Thank you for reading! That is the Viva Dicce ranking of all players on San Llera's roster. We've got a good squad this year, and hopefully we can do a lot. See you next time!

by **Thaldor** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 6:03 am

For queen and country - WC 73 Qualification:

Sarah Lund for Soccermania.th
What a year for the Confederacy of Thaldor, after racing towards the 4th Place of the Baptism of Fire Tourney the party was short, disturbed by the dead of the old High King Magnus Christiansen of Nordenhagen. His dead leading the confederacy into an aura of distress and desperation. Even with the new Highqueen there are still some depressions of the past.
But there is light on the horizon, like the last time the national sport could unite the confederacy again. Football it is and the Thaldorian Football Association (TFA) is hopefull to manage at least a good placement if not the qualification for the World Cup.
An unlikely goal for a nation new to the circuit but as shown earlier in the year football is madness at some times. Nobody expected anything from the Baptism of Fire as well and everyone could see the results.
Now with new courage, with new confidence. Anything could be possible for the Thaldorian Dragons if they manage to get the momentum from the BoF.
This qualification is not about sport, not about haughty results. This time the team must unite the confederacy again. They are playing for the sake of Thaldor and for Highqueen Susan of Londra who allready expressed her wish to visit at least all home games of the Dragons.
Her first visit is on thursday the dragons will be playing against the Team of the Lee Islands in Milano. A rather small scaled football nation with place 313 in the World Ranking but neverethless a opponent that shouldn't be underestimated.
Watch the full game live on Channel 1, broadcasting from 5 pm from the Riveira of Milano.

by **Port Christopher** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 6:38 am

Port Christopher will go into their second World Cup cycle with what is in truth, very little chance of making the finals. For the small Schottic overseas territory, it has never been much about winning, rather it was about standing on their own feet. The Sea Lions have had moderate success in their first two years on the world stage, albeit only in smaller tournaments. They finished third in the Baptism of Fire 59, and reached the last eight of the Runner Cup in Santaclausisgodistan, in what was probably a decent first showing.

Credit where it is due, Jimmy Mitchel's players have always taken the game to teams, even when it has ended up being their undoing, their Runner cup quarter final with New West Guiana being the best example of this. When a more metered response might have gotten them to the semis, they instead found themselves on the wrong end of a 5-3 scoreline. This is typical of the way the sport has always been played in the league back home, where there has always been an emphasis on free-flowing attacking football. When Celtic Noviodunum's Tim Maitfield fires the ball home after a lung bursting run to the edge the box, or Elisa Rivera throws in a couple of chip-passes in the middle of the pitch, the team can be very entertaining to watch. This can be great when the team are in the ascendency, but there is always the feeling that there is no plan B, and put simply, Port Christopher just aren't good enough to pull this off against top-70 sides.

The question then, this time round, is whether they will crash and burn the same way when they come up against Group 8's top ranked side Legalese in the opening fixture. Approaching the game with their usual mind set is surely only going to yield a negative result, as defending so far up the park will be like waving a red flag in front of a bull to strikers of that sort of quality. There is no doubt in anyone's mind that Tony Uist and Franz Müller is a pretty decent strike force by the standards of a side ranked 125th in the world, however the second part of that statement is important to note. Uist's goals in the Super-League over the last three seasons might have helped him win a seven million dollar move to Marinos Thimpodopoulos, but that is still a long way short of the ability required to take his side to the World Cup finals.

It is for these reasons that the Christopherans need to try to box clever this year, if they are to give themselves the best chance possible of making it through to finals in Apox and Quebec. There have been unranked, or lower ranked sides who have the achieved the unthinkable before, but the same will not be said for the tiny team from the West Pacific, if they continue with the same approach. Teams such as Acronius and Lymantatia are not a hundred miles ahead of them in terms of the rankings and they will be hoping that they can go toe-to-toe with them at the Willox Street Stadium. The most important thing, however, is what they do when they face these sides on the road. Do they open up and suffer results like in Santaclausisgodistan, or do they keep it tight, and hope that a few hard fought draws on the road will help them over the line?

We caught up with former Christopheran international Jim Reid, a man instrumental in establishing the territory's international side. We asked his thoughts on this topic, and the side's preparations for their opening qualifier:

Reporter: So Jim, more so than anyone out there, you must be looking forward to this. Do you look at the team with a sense of pride, when you think about the work you put in, when many people thought it wasn't something worth doing.

Jim Reid: Yeah, absolutely. I think when you see the following we have already got, and the excitement back in Port Christopher, you can see it was something well worth doing. But let me tell you this; it's not just my doing, of course I feel a sense of pride, but everyone involved in the team is entitled to feel that way too. Right from the top players in the side, all the way down to our fantastic supporters. I think the match organisers are expecting a big turn out for some of these matches, and we've also had a proportionately high number of fans making the trip to the away games.

Reporter: It's interesting that you talk about the top players in the side, how do you feel when some sections of the media suggest that you're a B team, and that these players would have never been capped by Schottia anyway. I mean, what do you think of the standard of the current playing squad?

JR: Yeah, I think that simply isn't true. John Scooner has been capped for Schottia, as has Nori Boudan that's the reason they haven't been called up. I can also tell you that Aredhel Neil and Elisa Rivera both turned down the chance to play for Schottia after I had spoken to them about the prospect of playing for the Port Christopher, even when it was just a rumour. There are plenty of great players in the squad, and I actually think the way Tony [Uist] has been playing, he would probably be in the current squad now.

Reporter: ...And obviously it was you who contacted Jimmy Mitchel about taking on the management side of things, do you think he is doing a good job so far? What do you think he needs to do in the up and coming matches, in order for the team to book their places on the plane?

JR: I think he needs to keep going to be honest. Jimmy is one of the best managers I've ever worked under, and I'm in full support of management of the team. I know that a lot of people will have written us off in terms of whether or not we can qualify, but I know for a fact that will not be Jimmy's attitude, nor will it be the attitude of the players. I imagine we will go into every game set up to try and win, and maybe we'll give a few of the mid-ranked sides a bit of a fright. I really think that some positive energy goes a long way in football, the fans appreciate that kind approach, and so do the fans. And look, I don't think you'd catch Jimmy making any apologies for the way he sets up his side. He is our most successful domestic manger, and he's taken the side to the last-eight in Santaclausisgodistan, and third place in the Baptism of Fire.

Reporter: No no, fair point. So finally if you had to pick out one player, or a couple of players that could make all the difference this time round, whom would you say we should be looking out for? Who do you expect to really shine?

JR: Och... It's never a nice thing to do, singling people out like that. That's the thing with collaboration; you might contribute 90% you might contribute 1%, everyone is different, but it doesn't mean that they are less important. I think... eh... Diego [Bandos] will be a big player again this year, as will Elisa, Tony, Tim [Maitfield]. It's also going to be interesting how Jacques gets on, and really encouraging to see a good young player coming through the ranks, it's good to see the first green shoots.

Reporter: Okay Jim, thank you very much, we'll all be watching very closely. We wish you all the best on what you are doing now, whether you decide to stay in the game next year or not.

JR: Yeah thank you. Obviously that's a big decision for me and one I'll have to make at some point very soon.

Reporter: And if the Port Christopher manager's job came up some time soon, Jimmy Mitchel has indicated he doesn't want it forever, would that temp you? You'd be the logical choice?

JR: [laughs] Goodness no, that's something that would need a lot more thought. I make a habit of not answering hypothetical questions.

Reporter: Okay Jim, thank you.

by **San Llera** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 9:57 am

Agusti Llano's Speech
Llerana Square, 8:21 AM

[cheers] "Hello. Please, their is no need for cheering. This is not a day in which we cheer."

As you may already know, my father has been a very sick man. Lymphoma has taken a serious toll on him. And as you probably also know, my father died this morning. Our Great Leader Alejandro Llano has died, ending his fierce battle with lymphoma. He would have turned 54 tomorrow. This is a very sad day for the San Lleran people. The strong leader who symbolizes all we are made of as San Llerans is gone. We will never forget my father. We must always remember the heroic deeds he has done for this country. Alejandro Llano took us out of the dark ages; he will go down in history as one of the best leaders this country, and the world, has ever seen."

But this is also not a time to dwell in the past. We, the people of San Llera, need to use this tragedy to surge forward, rather try to go back to the days of Alejandro Llano. Which leads me to a very important announcement, one which may not surprise some, but may shock others. On his deathbed, my father chose his successor to the throne of San Llera, and that successor is me."

I will never forget my father. In fact, the first act I will do in office will be to establish the Alejandro Llano Remembrance Day, celebrated on this date every year. But then I will do a lot of other things. As painful as it might be, the right thing to do for this country is to keep the train chugging and leave my father behind. He has done great work for this country, but there is still work to do, and that is work I intend to do. We need to end oppression in this country. We need to set the press free, to let citizens wear any color freely, because I am Agusti Llano and I want freedom."

My dad did so many great things, I can't echo that enough, but I want to give you, the people, all the freedom you deserve. If you want to go on strike, do it. If you want to criticize me, do it. If you want a fair trial, I'll give you one!" [The crowd erupts in cheers]

No need for that. Thank you. We'll never forget Alejandro, but it's time for Agusti."

by **Gim** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 10:34 am

SATV HD - Monday ~ Sunday 9:30-10:00

Jo Jin Ri

Camera is at an aerial view of the studio with Anchorwoman Jo Jin Ri in the center of the studio.

"Hello, I'm Jo Jin Ri, and this is WATV 8 Sports. Today was an important day for the Gimian football team as the group teams have been decided. Gim received a favourable group orientation during Baptism of Fire, but did they receive a favourable for this coming tournament? Here is the orientation:

Group 5

Flardania (86)
Damukuni (229)
Yttribia (25)
Gim (191)
Swilatia (UR)
Pasarga (1)
Greater Watford (59)

After seeing this orientation, Gimians call this the 'Group of Doom', especially with the No.1 seed, Pasarga, in this group. Moreover, this World Cup is the very first World Cup tournament for the Gimians. Matchup will not be easy.

Certainly, there is an advantage for the Gimians in that they are able to face Damukuni and Swilatia, that are, respectively, 229th and unranked. However, that is only two out of the six teams they would have to face.

There are people who contend this World Cup would be a worthwhile experience for the team, whereas, others contend that this World Cup is meant to showcase their talent and to prove that Gim is a powerful football team. What will be the case in this season of the World Cup? I think we will have to wait until the beginning of the group stages to decide on that.

Meanwhile, in ice hockey,..."

by **Krytenia** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 6:11 pm

K1K: The Game Of History

MATCH #1: IT HAPERD ONE NIGHT
Krytenia 1-1 Haperd, Baptism of Fire II
KaMaRi kali, Rejistania, 10 June 1992

Welcome to the K1K Retrospective, where we look back at notable games from Krytenia's history in the run-up to the nation's historic thousandth senior game against the combined might of rivals Audioslavia and Starblaydia. Where better to start, then, than at the beginning?

THE BUILD-UP
Football fever had well and truly gripped the Krytenian people as the team prepared to take their bow on the international stage. The squad had been given a heroes' farewell as they set off for Rejistania and their first international tournament, the Baptism of Fire. The second iteration of the competition, and the first to be officially sanctioned by the WCC, Rejistania were co-hosts along with the SLANI - or Commerce Heights as they were known back then. You may know them better nowadays as the home of UICA...Krytenia wouldn't know them at all, at least not yet. But we're getting ahead of ourselves.

Given the size and scale of modern Baptisms of Fire, it may surprise some of you that Krytenia were one of just eight nations to compete in the competition. Names like Morriganavia, Calientia, and Ascensia will probably raise zero memories to most, but there were familiar names. Turori, for one, provided a local derby for the Celestials (the Aces soubriquet would not be assumed for quite some time). There was Oaker, who reached a World Cup Final back in the day, and Lykaia, who qualified for World Cup XVI out of precisely nowhere. But again, we're getting ahead of ourselves.

Lastly, there was Haperd. A nation famous on these shores (and most others) for precisely one thing. They were the first to face Krytenia, and all eyes in the United Provinces fell upon KaMaRi kali for that opening game...

THE MATCH
As opening gambits went, it didn't start to well for the Krytenians. The men in sky blue were caught flat-footed by an energetic Haperd side, and Kris Haperd Jr scored with a crisp volley to give Haperd the lead on eleven minutes. Get used to that surname, by the way, all of the Haperd team had the surname Haperd. Oddly enough, Oaker had the same naming convention, though obviously with Oaker substituted for Haperd. One thinks that Ronnie Krytenia just wouldn't be as popular in Farfadillis...but I digress. Haperd dominated in the first half, with Wes Byers and Alex Cujetkovic given a torrid time in the middle of the park. Kallana Haperd (seriously?)could have made it two but for a superb save from future Krytenian manager Alan Munitis, and Courtney Haperd (sigh) sliced a fierce shot wide of the post. With backs to the wall, it was up to captain Will Guarado to marshall the troops. Defensive action led to no further goals, and the Celestials went into the break a single goal behind.

Things simply had to change for the second half, and the change was a bold one, with defender Clayton Lormer replaced by midfielder Steve Ellis, providing an extra man in the middle of the park Haperd had dominated. The changes worked, as Krytenia began winning more of the ball in the centre of the park, and creating a few chances of their own. Roger Celsen skewed one wide, whilst Cecil Poldov almost fluked a cross into the top corner. Krytenia knew they had a way back into the game; Haperd knew they needed to hold on to the lead. They pushed forward looking for a second...but doing so left gaps at the back, and Cujetkovic took advantage, playing a swift ball to the famous Ari Smith, who beat the offside trap and slotted past the keeper to equalise on the hour.

With the scores level, the game opened up. Kris Haperd Jr forced a couple of good saves from Munitis, whilst both Smith and Celsen went close for Krytenia. In the end, though, there were to be no further goals, and both sides escaped their opening international with pride intact and honours even.

THE AFTERMATH
The point would turn out to be the only one of Haperd's BoF campaign. For the Krytenians, meanwhile, came two further draws and an emotion that they were about to get used to: heartbreak. A refereeing howler in their final group game against Morriganavia, where Cecil Poldov was adjudged to be offside despite receiving the ball from a stray backpass, meant a nil-nil draw and elimination without losing a match. Krytenia and Haperd (and, indeed, Krytenia and Morriganavia) would never cross paths again, but this one match, this building block of history, would forever etch the name of Haperd into the Krytenian psyche. There would be great games - and great rivalries - ahead, but they, dear reader, are stories for another time.

by **Witty Penguins** » Wed Oct 14, 2015 1:37 am

WC QUALIFIERS: Matchday One Preview

14 October 2015

For the past fortnight we have been seeing a large-scale migration from Witty Penguins to the nation of New Gelderland. However, we aren't talking about one of the multitude of bird species that reside here, rather, we are talking about football fans wanting to see tomorrow's 73rd World Cup qualifying match. At the 55,000 seat Olympic Stadium in Nassau Bay, the Penguins will be hosted by their New Gelderlish opponents in their opening match. Both sides will be eager to seize first blood in their debut appearances at the World Cup Qualifiers.

Air Arctica, sponsor of the Witty Penguins football team, would certainly have been enjoying the extra revenue over the last couple of weeks. In contrast to the Baptism of Fire, the airline was prepared well in advance for the tournament, adding additional flights to New Gelderland in anticipation of the supporters hoping to see the match live. As expected, they were extremely popular, with tickets selling out weeks ago. For those staying home tomorrow, numerous public venues throughout the country will be hosting live viewings of the match on large projectors. Unitians can view the match at Progression Park or the Grand Auk Centre, while Roseans can see the match at Rosea Central Park.

Of course, many Penguinites will remember the previous victory over New Gelderland in the 60th Baptism of Fire held earlier this year. After a disappointing start to their campaign, the Witty Penguins team were hoping to score at least a single victory. A 1-0 defeat against Googolsia followed by a goal-less 0-0 against Estelar meant that this victory would have to be made against the group-leader. An intense battle by both sides was had. Yet, the Penguinites that day were the superior, able to break through the New Gelderlish defense and seized the two goals that handed them the win. It was a bittersweet outcome though; the Penguins ultimately failed to progress to the next round and ended their Baptism of Fire campaign with that match. Still, to have won against the side that would later go on to win the tournament was certainly an achievement to be proud of. However the outcome of that match back in Eura means little now. The Penguins are without Les Dehart, the captain that had brought them to their first victory. Dehart had been lucky to escape harm after a nasty tackle in his match against Googolsia, however, his luck had run out playing for FC Unitia. Neither Richard Peak nor the PFF have commented on when he'll be fit enough to play again, although rumours have spread that he won't be fit until the Qualifiers have concluded. Ben Knight has taken the reins as captain; as to whether he can lead the team to victory is something that we can only know until tomorrow. New Gelderland knew where they went wrong against our team. And they have demonstrated that they have the capacity to overcome the tactics we used that day - shown in the BoF final against Fluvique. To add, they have the esteem boost from lifting the BoF trophy. It is a matter of whether they can implement that capability this time around - unless the Penguinish team has something else up their sleeve to break through the tough New Gelderlish defenses again.

After this match the Penguins will have a bye for the 16th giving them an opportunity for rest and a review of their match performance. The next day they will then face the United States of Devonta at their homeground, Unitia City Stadium.

by **Schottia** » Wed Oct 14, 2015 5:58 am

ooc: This is part one in a series of 'day in a life' style RPs featuring Schottia's national team. Over the course of this cycle, I will try to get through most of them.

Their Lives

Starting again for the first time.

#-- Jane Gullie. Manager

The click of her front door closing was one which satisfied Jane Gullie greatly. The was the sound of a day finishing, a full stop, an audible cue informing her that she was now in the relative sanctuary of her own home. This was something that she constantly tried to tell herself, in a futile bid to leave her work at the training ground. However, for a young woman in charge of the league champions, the burden that came with the job were near impossible to shake. As her career gathered momentum, so did the level of scrutiny she was subjected to. There was pressure from every direction, plenty of people were desperate to see her slip-up, but there were also legions of fans who held her as an awe-inspiring icon of gender equality. For Jane, it was often impossible to tell which pressure was worse; and on a bad day, working out which journalists were here supporters, and which were her critics was equally difficult.

She slipped off her jacket, and hung it on the hook in the hallway beside an assortment of hats, scarves, coats, and other outdoors garments. Immediately after this she slumped down against the inside of the door, causing a few items of clothing to become dislodged, and fall on her head like a landslide of wool and cotton. Jane kicked off her shoes, then ran her hands through her shoulder length auburn hair, finally gripping her scalp with her finger tips, trying to relieve some of the pressure she had built up over the course of the day. She had promised her partner that she would phone him as soon as she got out of the interview, however she had not yet done so. He would be at work, and as he was a teacher, she didn't like calling him out of class just to take a phone call. He taught history at a secondary school on the outskirts of Handon, so he normally got back to New Belfast by half-four anyway.

Jane checked the time on her phone and then pulling herself up, ambled through into the living room proper. She didn't want Derek to find her flaccidly leaning against the cupboard door like some teenager, and besides, she still had work to do, it was still technically the working day. She turned on some of the table lamps dotted around the living room and sat down at the desk in the corner, pouring herself a glass of red wine. Losing Elisa Rivera to Marinos Thimpodopoulos had been a tough blow for the Warriors, and something Jane was going to have to deal with if her side were going to retain the title next season. She would have never sold Willie Erskin had she known the board would have accepted the six million deal on her behalf. She had stuck Scott Cooper in there in the meantime, but she knew he wasn't a central midfielder, and simply not good enough for the Schottic Premier League champions.

She took a sip of her wine then tapped the end of her pencil against her teeth, looking down the shortlist of players she had drawn up. The board had given her a paltry three and a half million to bring in a replacement, calming that it was more that the two point seven they had spent on the Christopheran one season earlier. What was she meant to do with this? How was she meant to keep pulling top signings out of her backside time after time. Jon Fotan had gone to Fadrön Flight for sixteen million, and she had replaced him with Rivera; Jane knew that she couldn't keep this up. Where was the money going? Anyone could see that the numbers just didn't add up, and the transfer fees coming in were not being reinvested in the playing squad.

She was swithering as to whom she should call first, which manager she approach in terms of making an enquiry. There were a number of players she had her eye on, however she doubted any of them would be in her price range. Just then, as she unlocked her phone, there was a jingle of keys and the sound of the front door swinging open. Jane's partner Derek Elsman was forty-three with prematurely grey hair, and a short-clipped beard. He always dressed immaculately, and wore a suit and tie to work, with black shoes that you could see your face in. He and Jane had been together for six year, and had met back when she had been a physio doing her coaching badges. Derek too, was a big football fan and amongst other things he coached one of the local under-twelves teams.

Management was something that Jane fell into, rather than it being some sort of a calling. After picking up her coaching badges, she left New Belfast Warriors for the Handon Amazons, where she took on an assistant manager's role. It was only once she and Derek moved in together that she made the tough decision to go back to being a Physio, beginning her second term with the Warriors only four years ago. After making the step up to coach a year later, she very quickly rose through the ranks at the side, until when the then manager Tom Rodgers was sacked, Jane was handed the caretaker role.

'So.' He said standing in the doorway arms open wide, eyebrows raised.

'So, what?' Jane asked awkwardly rubbing the back of her neck and pulling a face like an embarrassed teenager.

'What do you mean; so what?' Derek smiled, but it was only to mask concern. 'You've just had an interview for the Schottia manager's job, and all you can say is; so what? I mean, how did it go? What did they say? Did they give you any indication of how things went?'

Jane felt bad for acting this way. At the risk of sounding cheesy, she considered Derek her rock. He was so understanding, he was genuinely interested in what she did, and helped her out whenever he could, asking nothing in return. The man ate, slept, and breathed football, and he was an excellent sounding block for any wild ideas she might want to run past someone.

'Eh... yeah.' She looked down at the page, biting her bottom lip, trying hard to concentrate. 'They offered me the position.' She added in a matter of fact way.

'Oh my god, Jane. That's amazi...' Derek made to rush over the floor to give his partner a hug, before he picked up on her body language, stopping him in his tracks. 'Wait, you're happy about this aren't you? You told them you wanted it, no?' Derek's face had become worn with lines all of a sudden.

'I said that I needed to sleep on it Derek, I needed some time to think.' She looked up at him smiling, hoping that would be enough to get him to drop the subject. 'Anyway in the mean time I need to get cracking with finding a replacement for Elisa. That's more important.' All the time Derek was shaking his head in disbelief. 'What is your opinion on Kevin Morton at Hillstreet?'

'Not good enough, he's not the type of player you need...' Derek answered quickly, wanted to keep things on topic.

'Meh... damn it!' Jane grunted and rested her chin back on the palm of her hand.

'But why did you tell them that you wanted to sleep on it?' Derek wasn't letting her off the hook. 'Can you at least talk to me about it?'

'Look Derek, this transfer business is kind of pressing.' Jane snapped, but in truth she didn't mean too. 'If you don't want to help me then why don't you go and see if there's something in the fridge for dinner.'

'Jane?' Derek stood there in disbelief.

'What?' She asked, not looking up from her notes.

'Jane, what is it?'

She was quiet for a moment, putting her notepad down and picking up her wineglass. 'What happens if I can't do it?' She asked finally, looking distraught with worry. 'What if I fluff the whole thing up?'

'Why on earth would you not be able to do it?' Derek said walking over and pulling up a chair next to his partner’s desk. 'You're the best manager in the league, and obviously the SFA think so too otherwise they wouldn't have offered you the job.'

'Oh but Derek, this is a totally different ball game - pardon the pun.' She put the glass down and placed her face in her hands. 'This isn't the SPL, this is international football. And Barry Gorman was meant to be the best manager in the league a few years ago and look at him, he cracked. You actually saw him age on the camera. You could almost pinpoint the key moments leading towards his mental collapse!'

It was one of the SFA's best kept secrets, that the real reason for Barry Gorman's departure was a stress induced breakdown. Towards the end his position had become impossible, and even a run to the last sixteen of the Cup of Harmony in Quebec couldn't keep him in a job. By this stage the board were already livid with the once golden boy of Schottic management. In arrogantly promising qualification within three cycles, he had excited the small nation's fans with unrealistic aspirations. In short, he had signed his own death warrant. Now coaching in Port Christopher, it was perhaps fitting that he currently worked on the island where many Schottians went to retire.

'Jane, you are not Barry Gorman.' Derek Said as he re-emerged from the kitchen, quickly fetching himself a glass. 'Even if, when he won the title with Port Sebastian, I sometimes wished you were.' Jane raised an eyebrow, his joke bringing a smile from her for the first time since she had gotten home.

'If I end up managing some bunch of part-timers in Port Christopher in a year's time will you still love me?' She asked, seeming a little more at ease.

Derek poured himself a glass from the bottle. 'I'd still love you even if you ended up working in Novitera.' Derek sat himself back down. 'Now are you going to tell me what they said at your interview, for example what did they ask you?'

'Well.' Jane looked to the sky, as if remembering some traumatic childhood event. 'It was one of those things where you could tell that it was the same set of questions for everyone. So, like, I gathered I was being graded in some way on how I answered.' She looked over to Derek who was nodding along, stooped forward with his elbows perched on his knees. 'The first one was, eh: What is your footballing philosophy.' Jane puffed out her cheeks and laughed. 'I was a bit like, wow what a starting question. I mean, how broad a question can you ask?'

'But you didn't say that, right.' Derek took a sip of his wine.

'Oh my God, of course not.' Jane laughed again. 'No I didn't find that too bad really, I mean you know how I feel about the sport, and how I, like, don't believe in over complicating things. You know, round pegs in round holes, and the old: You've got to be relaxed to make a good pass kind of thing.'

Derek was nodding again, not doubting for a second that his partner would have handled that question with little trouble. It was her approach to the game, which her players responded to, and it was going to be a stark difference to that of the departing Gorman. Where her predecessor had a near management by numbers, clinical style of coaching, Jane employed more of a fluid, holistic, learning through experience method.

'Nice.' Said Derek finally. 'Well that one is your strongest suit, definitely. Come on, what else did they ask you?'

Jane was doing a bit better now, coming out of her attack of nerves and starting to enjoy herself. 'So... Next they asked me how I felt about replacing a successful coach.' She smiled. 'And I was thinking to myself: I'm guessing that's your opinion and not the fans' know what I mean?'

Derek laughed. 'But I mean he did take us from a side which finished qualifiers with no points, to a team capable of reaching the knockouts of the Cup of Harmony.'

'Yeah yeah!' Jane lifted a hand acknowledging that she was joking. 'I know, and that is the weird paradox with Barry Gorman, despite how unpopular he was in the last twelve months, he still did a fantastic job. Most of the pressure came from the rod he had made for his own back. That was kind of how I answered the question; I think they seemed reasonably happy.'

'What else then...? Asked Derek sitting back with his wine as the couple continued to relax.

'Next one... was.... eh... Oh yeah! What is your biggest mistake in sports management?' She looked at Derek and raised both her eyebrows. 'I know, right! But I'd kind of given it a bit of thought, as I had a feeling they would ask me something like that.' She took a sip from her wineglass then continued. 'And I said it was the way I approached the final third of last season. I said that I took it for granted that we would finish strongly because we had been playing well all season. I underestimated what it was going to take to get over the finish line. It took something that neither the players nor me had at the time, and that was a winning mentality. But... As I told them, we certainly have it now, that grit you need to succeed.'

'Yeah, I think that's fair.' Said Derek, impressed with her honesty. That was one thing about Jane, she was if anything, just too honest.

'Then they also asked me all that crap about who I'd want on my backroom staff, or if I intended to work with any of the current staff.' She shrugged. 'And I was like, well I want to bring John Murray with me, but other than that I'm happy to look at the most suitable candidates available, to get the best team around me.'

The whole way through the interview there had been this peculiar air of knowing. It was one, which gave Jane the distinct impression that they had wanted her for the job all along. These interviews could end up being a bit of a farce, where they were reduced to a mere formality. She didn't think that this was what had happened here, rather it felt like they were willing her to impress them. There was nothing particularly wrong with that, however, Jane would have been surprised if they had the same attitude to all the applicants.

'So they were all just the kind of questions you might expect really?' Derek's curiosity had now been satisfied, as had is desire to see his partner give herself the credit she deserved.

'Yeah, pretty much.' Said Jane nodding. 'I mean they asked follow up questions obviously. And they asked me things like: Would you plan to bring any new faces in? and Who impresses you most in the current squad?'

'Who did you say impressed you?' Derek cut over her, curious. 'Sorry it interrupt.'

'Tis cool. Eh... I said Kim Coultan was a player I would really like to work with. I would have loved to have signed her as a replacement to Fotan, but Jottnar Kallsmudden would have never accepted the money I had to offer.'

'Fair point. And did you speak to any of the others?' Derek asked finally. 'The other interviewees? Did anyone else say how they had found it?'

'Aye, yeah.' Jane nodded. 'I saw Jimmy Mitchel on my way out, he just asked how I was, etcetera. I wished him luck.' Jane shrugged again and had another sip of her wine.

'So they've offered you the job? Just at the end of the interview?' Derek inquired. All the time aware that it sounded unusual.

'Oh my God no!' Jane laughed. 'No. Haha. They called me when I was on my way home. I was just outside our front door actually. I sat on the step to take the call and then when I got in I, like, pretty much just collapsed.' She gave a demonstration of the action for dramatic effect and then laughed again.

Derek was smiling warmly now, as he got up to head through to the kitchen. 'So you're going to sleep on it?'

'Yup.'

Derek cast a look of pride in his partner's direction. 'I'm going start the dinner. Oh, and Tommy Wilson at Granton Vale, or Len Oban who plays for Sarrburgh Town.'

'Huh?'

'Both hugely underrated players, who could definitely make the step up to the next level.' He gave her a wink, as he turned to head into the kitchen. 'You asked me earlier about players.'

Jane pursed her lips together, quietly impressed as always, with her partner’s encyclopaedic knowledge of football. She pulled out her not book and added the name Len Oban to her list.

by **Freedom Utopia 100** » Wed Oct 14, 2015 8:57 am

International Post-Freedom Utopia Section-Sports Issue 1 on Freedom Utopia 100
FREEDOM UTOPIA 100 DRAWN IN WORLD CUP FIRST TIME, COMMENTATORS:"NOT BAD"
Today is the first time that Freedom Utopia is drawn into the 19th group and is the second lowest in the qualifying matches.
There are 140 nations total in this World cup, with qualifications starting tomorrow.
The 140 nations are divided into 20 groups and 30 more teams must earn their place in the tournament. The start of World Cup Qualifying is drawing near, and 140 nations will fight until the end for those extremely wished spots in Apox and The Royal Kingdom of Québec.
"Apox is a large and relatively affluent country based in Southern Esportiva, a renowned force in international and domestic football, the country is ready to host the Biggest Football Tournament in the Multiverse. The country is well connected to much of Esportiva and the multiverse with four international airports scattered around the country, as well as having good internal transportation links, by road, rail, air and sea. In terms of footballing infrastructure, Apox has hosted multiple tournaments before, as well as being the home of the ANL, the top ranked league in the world. Apoxians themselves have established as a welcoming and interesting nation to see apart from football, with stunning nature and good beaches all around the nation, an economical powerhouse in the region and a good democracy settles them as one of the most stable nations in the region of Esportiva.

Talking about The Royal Kingdom of Québec, it's a nation located in Northern AO, being a nation well known for its environment, rich cultural diversity and claims one of its region's most educated and cultured population. Led by His Imperial Majesty the Jacques IX, the country is a semi-constitutional monarchy, with both the royalty and the democracy playing a huge role in Quebecois politics. With a high HDI rating and affluent economy, Royal Kingdom of Québec is an advanced nation with long years of peace and stability within the nation, while still allowing for societal and economic progress over the course of its history. With a beautiful environment, advanced economy, state-of-art infrastructure and love of association football, Royal Kingdom of Québec is your place to go for your once-in-a-lifetime voyage that welcomes every traveler with smile and cheer. " The organizer said.

This is the end of this issue.____________________Borderline_________________

by **Estelar** » Wed Oct 14, 2015 10:20 am

The Stargazers are preparing for their first international match at home. The streets of Observatório are fully decored: planets, stars, the signs' symbols, their representative deities, which although are not worshipped have their images constantly used... and some football balls in order to at least include something related to the competition in the middle of this astrologic decoration. The stadium itself, Arena do Observatório, mantains its simple style, without any stadium coverage so the fans can see the starry sky. The city is always very active during the nights thanks to all the bars and clubs, but this day you can feel something different, an anxious city representing an anxious nation ready for an important moment in its history.

Observatório is the biggest city in Estelar, but the city planners of the country, when it was first developing, decided that minor cities located close to each other would be better. Therefore, the capital city, the same mentioned just before, was supposed to have only half a million people by now, which would be already be more than fifty percent more than most of the other cities of the country. However, the skies of Observatório are excellent for both astrology and astronomy, and due to this people flocked to it and its neighbouring cities, which are now only neighbourhoods: these cities grew so much that they merged with Observatório in what became the only metropolis of the entire country, with two million inhabitants. The ban on cars means that the streets at this time of the night at filled with bicycles... there are many people, not interested on football, who are returning home after work, but for several other people this is a special day for Estelar.

Bars are getting filled, with a majority of women which Estelar is known of. Conversation gets louder, laughter as well... at least now, before the match, you can do a lot of noise and laugh without getting nervous during a tense game or sad because of a bad performance of the Stargazers. Drinks come and go, glasses arriving full and leaving empty. Some people can't calmly wait for the end of the soap opera for the beginning of the match and stand up or go to the corner of the street in order to smoke a cigarette, although there are plenty of people smoking on the tables too. Some are already planning what to do after the game, as even if Estelar loses the first international match of the football team at home is an event important enough to commemorate... close to the bars, nightclubs are already restocking the bars and cleaning the dance floors, drugstores, which sell drugs prohibited in many other countries, are anxious for the profits. It is really hot in Observatório right now, and some people are exchanging brandy for beer in order to stand the heat.

And you can see several women, in the bars or on their bikes or reaching the stadium, wearing the violet-orange shirts of the Stargazers. We cannot predict their astral signs, but we can notice some pattern depending on the name and number of the Estelar player chosen on their shirts. It is curious that we have several goalkeeper shirts, which are completely black with orange numbers, with the name of the team captain Dani written on it. The several controversies in which the starting goalkeeper of Estelar participated, suspended for this game and the next of the qualifiers, didn't lessen the love of the supporters for her. Usually the fans of Dani love her playful attitude and her love for the nightlife. Vesta fans, proudly wearing her number eight shirt, are considered to be more fanatic for football, due to the fact that Vesta is considered the more talented player... or they just like her looks and hope that one day they meet their idol, like the fans of a pop star. Imogene has a lot of fans as well, being third placed in number of shirts sold, and this is more due to the fact that she plays in a different club than the one that both Vesta and Dani play, Gemini Rising, a team which has a lot of anti-supporters, so these end preferring to cheer for Imogene. Finally, the fourth most popular player is Beatrix, and some people are considered to be nerds just by being fans of her and her mathematical approach to the game... but this ends being just a playful joke as academics and Beatrix herself are much respected.

The stars look well aligned tonight, which would be excellent to give Estelar a good start in the match. The Mercury Retrograde period is over, and now there is an interesting conjunction of planets in Virgo: Mercury, Venus and Jupiter. Perhaps this can be a sign that the communication problems in the squad are finally over and the team will be able to get more organized and follow better the strategies of Jupiter Lynx, a coach who is not having the best of her moments after the poor campaigns in the Copa Rushmori and the Baptism of Fire. The new moon will also surely have a huge effect on a lot of people. For example, the new moon hitting the fifth house of Dani's astral map would indicate a moment of a very positive attitude which could help her performance but also her intent to party... but well, she's suspended and will be substituted by Vênus...

"We can feel the excitement on the streets today, Dani. We'll be under a lot of pressure tonight, but it is our responsibility to do our best", said Beatrix. "We can only hope that the planets are in our favour today, but it seems that the end of the Mercury Retrograde and the conjunction we are currently experiencing can be the key to a secure game. Also, my calculations have showed the weakest points in Googolsia's positions, thanks to the fact that we have already played against them during the Baptism of Fire."

"Well, we can just hope", said a frustrated Dani. "That game against Googolsia was the one which got me suspended. I can't believe that I am going to miss this match. I think I'll go home and just drink while watching the game."

"Please not today, Dani. Don't leave us alone. Stay with us before the match and meet us after. More than that, your presence on the stands will be a great boost for the supporters."

"You're right as always... well, it is always good to please the fans after all", she laughs. "And I can drink at the stadium anyway... we'll party after, right? We can do some contest in which the fans with the best songs for the team go to the nightclub with us, what do you think?"

"Well, maybe... let's think about the match first, shall we?"

"Sure... but I can't avoid thinking about something else, and I had an idea that I have to write down"

THE DANI GUIDE FOR ESTELARIAN BEVERAGES

Since I am suspended and everything and you know why and all the other stuff involving it that I really don't want to talk about right now, I decided to use some of my free time in order to write this small but nice guide for visitors in Estelar! Of course if you are coming to Estelar you want to drink a lot! Or maybe you just want to know our lesbian nightclubs or even just like astronomy, astrology and stargazing... but anyway, even if you want to do these other stuff you'll always want to drink something, I promise you won't regret! So, in order to help you tourists here in our nice country, I have listed five beverages which you must try once here in Estelar:

1- Constellation® Brandy: the most popular beverage of the entire country - Brandy - and the most bought brand - Constellation. There are some cheaper options on the markets but I wouldn't recommend buying them unless you want to miss your entire next day with headaches while forgetting about what you've done in the previous day at the same time. There are also more expensive brands... they are excellent if you can buy them, as after all Estelar is famous for the brandy. But you can't do wrong with Constellation: smooth and with a sweet taste, is one that you can not only drink pure, with ice for hotter days, but also mix with black tea! Brandy + cold black tea is the most asked drink in the entire country, so when in Estelar you can't leave without one glass.

2- Sinastry® Beer: I could choose several different beer brands here. I am not too fond of beers, but Vesta is and I have tasted many different options together with her and this is the one which she enjoys the most. Sinastry has a large pool of beer options, although the two most sold ones are lager and pilsen, the second one being the cheapest option and therefore the most popular. As Estelar is a pretty hot country, people love to spend entire days sitting in a bar and drinking Sinastry. But you can also find other options like pale ale and dunkel from the same brewery... that's why I've chosen this one, you can surely find your preferred beer with their label.

3- Moon in Scorpio® Cachaça: this one was named as a joke, not that accurate but fun and ended being one of the positive things of this cachaça together with the label with a red scorpion surrounded by flowers. The idea is that this cachaça will go down your throat and make you feel very hot, nearly hurting you like a sting. This is for people who really like strong drinks, and I for example really love it. Mix it with lemon juice and serve it chilled and you have a perfect drink for barbecues. This can be also an excellent option when you and a friend want to do a drinking competition: who can drink the biggest number of Moon in Scorpio shots is a popular game.

4- Chiron® Rum: not one of the most popular beverages in the country actually, rum loses in popularity to tequila and vodka, for example. But the Chiron brand is really a top quality one, and I simply couldn't leave it out of this list. What makes Chiron a quality rum is that it is delicious to drink it straight but it really shines when you want to include it in drinks... wow, you can make amazing Daiquiris and even one drink which is popular here in Estelar: rum, orange juice and redcurrant syrup, some kind of adapted Tequila Sunrise. By the way, it is important to note that, if I could include non-alcoholic beverages, surely orange juice would take the place of this rum: we use orange juice for everything, we can just drink it or include it in drinks, food or even as a salad dressing.

5- Sweet Conjunction® Chocolate Liqueur: ah, what to say about Sweet Conjunction... you will only be able to drink one really small dose of this liqueur at a time, as this is extremely sweet although strong, but you'll also never forget its taste. Some people hate it because of this, but I like it. It is also used in some different drinks, but I prefer to talk about the experience of drinking it alone. Estelar is famous for its chocolates, and Sweet Conjunction uses the chocolate from one of the most famous producers in the whole country, the North Node®. However, it really seems that they have put too many sugar on it, I must admit.

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