Copa Rushmori XVIII (18) | Everything thread.

[Alianza Albos]

Here's the results, tables to be provided in MD2

EDIT: Information of Alianza Albos can be found here.

RP Opportunity: Describe the best thing of your nation, try to be specific, and also keep your normal RP ideas.

Group A *Scorinated by Valladares*

Alianza Albos 1-1 Isula ĝe Ru
Darmen 0-1 Taeshan

Group B

Mytannion 2–2 Svengarda
Charruterra 2–2 Saintland

Group C

Polar Islandstates 4–0 Electrum
Sameba 0–1 Sargossa

Group D

Eura 1–0 Eastern Sunrise Islands
Saugeais 1–0 Patistan

Group E

Irad 1–1 Itanpavia
Ancharmunn 0–0 Zenic

Group F

Cassadaigua 3–4 Dixhuitiles
Sicoutimont 2–1 New Ponyville

Group G

Valladares 4–3 Falcus
Astograth 2–2 Alitaba

Group H

Pasarga 4–1 Macquarrie
Filopines 2–2 Kernansquillec

[Valladares]

THE VALLADAR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL ROSTER FOR THE 18^TH COPA RUSHMORI

Style Modifier: +3
Formation: 3-2-2-3
Coach: Dimitri Campbell (Eura)

GOALKEEPERS
1. Luis Fuentes - GK - 39 - Metropolis Alligators (Captain)
12. Tom Moore - GK - 31 - AS Bezieres
23. Andrés Orozco - GK - 24 - Pradera FC

DEFENDERS
2. Jéremy Carrasso - DR - 31 - Olympique de Fontvielle
13. Luis Carlos Perea - DR - 29 - Canalave Dragons
3. Jerôme Perrin - DC - 37 - Olympique de Fontvielle (Vice-captain)
14. Patrick Courtois - DC - 22 - Abingdon Celtic (The Licentian Isles)
4. Freddy Edwards - DL - 31 - Marinos Metrópolis
15. Frank Lescott - DL - 25 - Tannenberg FC

MIDFIELDERS
5. Pedro Pedretti - DMC - 24 - Nacional
16. Alain Démont - DMC - 27 - Fontvielle Impact
6. Ivan Coupet - DMC - 28 - FC1. Surtsey Island Gulls (Polar Islandstates)
17. Jonathan Bosetti - DMC - 21 - Metropolis Alligators
7. Juan Pablo Reyes - OMC - 24 - Urbizania Wanderers (Astograth)
18. Manuel Santos - OMC - 30 - Olympique de Fontvielle
8. Rubén Morantes - OMC - 26 - Ulsa (Eura)
19. Abel Brücke - OMC - 20 - AC Tallin

FORWARDS
9. Yoan Gignac - FW - 27 - Baskita FC (Pasarga)
20. Néider Riascos - FW - 25 - Abingdon Celtic (The Licentian Isles)
10. Pedrinho - FW - 23 - SK Franz Josef City (Polar Islandstates)
20. Carlos Alberto Sáez - FW - 23 - Raynor City United (Valanora)
11. Frank Rozenthal - FW - 22 - Olympique de Fontvielle
22. Michael Tello - FW - 25 - Ulsa (Eura)

Starting Lineup:



RP PERMISSIONS:
In the event my opponent RPs first, they may...
Choose my goalscorers YES
Godmod scoring events YES
RP injuries to my players NO without permission. I'll determine the severity if granted permission.
Godmod injuries to my players NO without permission.
Hand out yellow cards to my players YES
Hand out red cards to my players NO I'll determine whether my players are sent off or not.
Godmod other events YES only if they involve weather conditions.

Special requests:
1) Please no killings
2) Try to be as realistic as possible, and last but no least...
3) Have fun.

KITS (Brought to you by Kirola Sports):

[Patistan]

Patistan national football team



starting Lineup:


GK: shaheer shazib
DF: ghani usman
DF: yousuf kerai
DF: tahla zahid
MF: rashid hussain
MF: arhum gulbaz
MF: abdullah umar
FW: zia haq
FW: zulqarin akbar
FW: yousah umar

my style modifier is +2

BENCH
GK: hanan yousuf
DF: abbasi tahuid
DF: jahnzeb narwal
MF: malik pat
MF: shazib akhter
MF: asad gurav
FW: ahsan ajmal
FW: sami guraveee


coaching staff
Head coach: nassaer murad
assistant coach: naveed jamal
goalkepping coach: zumun murtaza
coach: wassem farid
Trainer: fahad akhtar



Choose my goalscorers: YES
Godmod scoring events: NO
RP injuries to my players: no
Godmod injuries to my players: NO
Hand out yellow/red card:no
Godmod other events: YES


kit

[


About the team

Shaheer Shazib 19 years old Captain of team (25 caps 1 goal)

Shazib Came from a poor family in Tachi and was spotted by a scout when he was playing on the streets, he signed with Tachi federal team, impressed people in the league with his goalkeeping and then got promoted to the national squad

Ghani usman 26 years old (32 caps 7 goals)

Played football at collage level and was signed by Tamabad strikers f.c, after three years in the league he got spotted for his defending skills and was promoted to the national team

Yusuf kerai 34 years old (10 caps 2 goals)

A add-math teacher who played with the children during his free time, got signed to Tahore lions after being seen by a kids father who was a scout for the Tahore lions with 2 years in the league he got upgraded to national level

Tahla zahid 21 years old (0 caps 0 goals)

Tahla had signed with Legalese club and was spotted by Tachi federal team scout and was signed only this year but quickly got promoted this is his first year in the Nationals.

Rashid Hussain 27 years old (23 caps 16 goals)

Rashid intended to be a striker for Daslabad army F.C but because of his tackling and speed he was put at mid defense,he has participated in the last three world cups and will have a go for the Copa Rushmori..

Arhum gulbaz 20 years old (1 cap o goals)

Arhum got signed with Totta F.C when he was in University this will be his second International cup.

Abdullah umar 19 years old (12 caps 8 goals)

Abduallah is the only player in the national team to be sent off for bad behaviour, on the field he is one of the best goalscorers in the team but still his temper gets in the way of teamwork.

Zia Haq 19 years old (25 caps 19 goals)

Zia haq is the best friend of Shaheer and bothwere spotted at the same time Zia is not a stranger to injuries he does not play a match without Shaheer and Shaheer does not play a match without zia he is also the vice caption of the Patistan team.

Zulqarin akbar 20 years (15 cap 35goals)

Known as the one match wonder with only playing one match but scoring 4 goals.He left the team after death threats,he was persuaded to come back and this will be his second Internatinal match.

yousah umar 26 years old (8 caps 4 goals)

Yousah the only Chrisitian player in the team has proven to be the voice in sports for minoritys across patistan he has broken three records in the league and was the 3rd player to be a Christian and play in the national league

[Pasarga]

Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y

Pasarga Roster
Nickname: Wanderers

Kits

Home Alternate
Modifier: +1

Manager: Aidé Hernádez, age 52 (F)
Assistant: Jullian van Setten, age 48

GK: Josef Dvořák, age 35, Perntav Marna TU (Earent)
GK: Grubiša Jelic, age 21, Maximum City (New Sideburn)
GK: Raghid Faysal Halabi, age 30, Stilwater City (Northern Sunrise Islands)
LB: Timár Bendegúz, age 28, Tanrısal
LB: Lenka Randáková, age 18 (F), Stein-los Turkish
CB: Antonio Jukić, age 24, Real Ile Perrot (Sicoutimont)
CB: Szöke Tabor, age 29, Club Stein-los
CB: Raymond Hébert, age 26, Stein-los Turkish
CB: Marzuqah Taahira, age 22, Oyardo FC (Astograth)
RB: Anka Matić, age 29, Club Stein-los (F)
RB: Jitka Bláhová, age 29, Edmonton United (Valladares)
DMC: Vass Adrián, age 21, SK Franz Josef City (Polar Islandstates)
RW: Szánthó Nyék, age 23, Tanrısal
RW: Valentina Mijatović, age 25, CA Paulinthal (F)
MC: Farkas Szebasztián, age 29, Stein-los Turkish
MC: David Köhler, age 27, Canterlot Royals (Equestrian States)
MC: Guðleif Valgeirsdóttir, age 30, CA Paulinthal (F)
LW: Løver Storås, age 28, Stalliongrad HC (Equestrian States)
LW: Onésimo Alicea, age 26, Santos Luega
ST: Kállay Janka, age 22, Byrd Spitfires (Northern Sunrise Islands) (F)
ST: Mezei Orbán, age 24, Itzalovalle (Audioslavia)
ST: Tobias Möller, age 27, Northbrook Diamonds FK (Polar Islandstates)
ST: Michael Müller, age 18, Tanrısal

Dvořák
Bláhová           Tabor      Jukić           Bendegúz
Mijatović             Szebasztián          Valgeirsdóttir               Storås
        Möller       Orbán     

Captain: Guðleif Valgeirsdóttir
Corner Taker: Løver Storås
Set Pieces: Guðleif Valgeirsdóttir
Penalties: Tobias Möller

[Darmen]

Tor Tong Lee elected to World Cup Hall of Fame

World Cup Hall of Fame Election

FIRST ROUND
Name                        App Votes
Tor Tong Lee                3   22.3%
Bryan Faulkner              3   16.8%
Zach Preston                3   14.8%
Troy Osborne                3   11.0%
Tim O'Donahaue              3    9.1%
William St. John de la Ware 1    7.1%
Kenneth Nolan               2    7.0%
Bob                         3    6.0%
Adrian Kok                  3    3.9%
Dan Lipari                  2    2.0%
*App: Appearances on Ballot

SECOND ROUND-@ Royal Golf Club, Liverpool, County Liverpool
1 Tor Tong Lee           5 4 3 5 5 4 4 5 4 4 5 3 5 3 5 5 5 4   78 +6
2 Bryan Faulkner         7 4 2 6 4 3 4 5 4 5 4 4 4 3 5 5 5 6   80 +8
Par: 72

When the first round of voting ended, showing Tor Tong Lee and Bryan Faulkner in the lead, no one was really surprised. And when Tor Tong Lee and Bryan Faulkner took to the golf course in the second round, no one was surprised when they didn't even approach par. So all in all, it was a rather boring election. There were surprises in who didn't do as well as expected, with the likes of Zach Preston and William St. John de la Ware failing to advance to the Second Round. Troy Osborne also surprised people by doing much better than expected, finishing fourth in the First Round, ahead of Tim O'Donahaue and William St. John de la Ware.

Lee's induction ceremony will occur following Darmen's first match of World Cup 69 Qualification, as his spot in the World Cup Hall of Fame will not have even been officially obtained until then. Lee will be the third Darmeni member of the World Cup Hall of Fame, joining former managers Mikael Gibbons and Georges Thomas. Gibbons' election remains controversial to this day due to a vote buying scandal, but the two latest elections have been controversy free, following DSF President Tim O'Donahaue's decision to institute fan voting.

---

Darmen loses Copa opener to Taeshan

The All Green's offense was unable to muster any prolonged attacks at Taeshani Goalkeeper Nick Garden, managing only three shots on goal. Meanwhile, the Darmeni defense didn't fare much better, requiring luck to repel most of the Purple Knights' attacks, but failing to do so on several occasions, including Grant Fauejeau's goal in the 67th minute. Now normally a performance of this nature would not be terribly concerning, but with the Taeshani's using a "B" team in this Copa, an All Green victory should have been easily secured.

In fact, this was Nick Gardner's first cap with the Taeshani national team, and Darmen's offensive weapons were expecting an easy day. "With a defensive line that had limited international experience," stated Darmeni striker Bryan Faulkner, "and a brand new Goalkeeper, we expected to easily score three or four goals."

The Darmeni defense had an easier time explaining their troubles. "It's no secret we're not that great," commented Center-back Scott Rydzik. That comment was immeadiately followed by criticism from Defensive Midfielder Nur al Din Lambert, "In fact I'd say you guys suck." A scuffle between the two players ensued, and Manager William von Kriesler is expected to suspend both players for the match against Alianza Albos.

"Normally I allow things like screaming matches and some minor shoving to occur," said von Kriesler in the post match interview, "but in this case, punches were thrown, and I'll have none of that."

As such, Trevor Goodwin will take fellow Royal PFC teammate Rydzik's spot in the back line, while al Din Lambert's spot in the lineup will be taken by Josimar Son. With the addition of Son to the midfield, Darmen will return to its traditional 3-5-2, which may leave the Darmeni defense even more vulnerable than it already is. Javier Zakuani and Oguchi Findley will take spots on the bench, but are not expected to play in the match.

Following the conclusion of this match, Darmen and Taeshan have faced each other four times, with each team having two 1-0 victories. Darmen's matches against Alianza Albos and Isula ĝe Ru will be the first ever.

[Sicoutimont]

The Lac-Drouin Times
Sport: Sicoutimont Victorious on Day 1 of the Copa Rushmori

SAN SIVAR (ALIANZA ALBOS) -- Sicoutimont's national football team began another campaign today, hunting for the Copa Rushmori, and getting started in the group stage with a match against the team from New Ponyland. The match started at 5:30PM local time, 6:30PM back home due to the time zone difference between Alianza Albos and Sicoutimont. Although Alianza Albos is one of the northernmost nations in Rushmore, the weather was perfect for the match that kicked off the campaign for Sicoutimont.

For Sicoutimont, it is the 8th Copa Rushmori they have participated in. The 10th Copa Rushmori, in Valladares, was by far the most successful for the team, as they finished third. At the last Copa Rushmori, held in the nation of Ossidiacqua, they finished third in their group, but were one of the best third placed teams in the tournament. So, they qualified for the play-off rounds. In the first match of the Round of 16, they took away a huge victory over the host side, 5-0, the second biggest win in Sicoutian football history. In the Quarterfinal, however, they lost to the nation of Irad 3-1, taking them out of the tournament. They went 2-0-3 in the tournament overall. On the other side of the pitch, New Ponyland entered their second Copa Rushmori this time around. The first tournament was Copa Rushmori 16, where the team finished 3rd in their group as well, with a 1-0-2 record in the Group Stage. This however, was not enough for them to reach the next stage, and the side did not participate in the 17th Copa Rushmori.

So, with the history up to this point of both teams leading up to this moment, the start of the next Copa, the whistle blew to begin the match at the National Olympic Stadium, San Sivar, which seats 102,400 people in total. The first possession of the game went to Sicoutimont, and they moved the ball forwards. But, and this is the thing that Sicoutian fans dread, the jitters of the first game of a new cycle got to them. It always seems to, the biggest recently being the 3-2 loss to Rikatan at World Cup 64, and almost drawing at home to another low ranked team in Tirdasor. It's something every football fan has come to expect from this team, but something they have gotten used to. It was this that led to the turnover in the midfield that led to the first great scoring chance of the game from New Ponyville. A shot from the striker just missed the corner of the net, and it was Alain Rivcoucher's glove that knocked it out of bounds for a corner. The corner wouldn't result in another chance, however, as it was played out by Yves Savard.

Just 10 minutes later, in the 19th minute, Sicoutimont would go down 1-0. On another break, New Ponyville had the ball in the box. Neal Kent, however, was not about to let a goal in, and slid in for the tackle. Kent was booked with a yellow, which some thought could have been a red, and New Ponyville received a penalty shot. The penalty was well-placed, and Alain Rivcoucher could not stop it, giving the New Ponyville side first blood in the match.

But Sicoutimont would not stay down for long, and began to play their style of football, a dangerous possessive game, with strong crosses to get the ball in the box for the strikers. By the 30th minute, a hole was finally found in the defence, and the play was heavily balanced in favour of the Sicoutians. The first goal for Sicoutimont came in the 32nd minute. Louis Desjardins played the ball in from the left flank for a strong cross which was received by Gaspard Demaru just in front of the goal. Demaru could not get the shot off, but his pass to Alex Gannot was perfect, and the ball bulged the mesh, making the game a 1-1 draw. Although the scoreline read 1-1 at the half, it was Sicoutimont who had dominated, able to take their time and get the ball in behind the defence. Often times it was the keeper for New Ponyville who kept the scoreline close. Going into the second half, New Ponyville would want to play much better defensively, while Sicoutimont would need to keep doing what they were doing and getting better shots on goal to beat the keeper.

In the second half, at least early on, both teams stuck to this gameplan. It was much harder for Sicoutimont to play in the crosses from the flanks, as New Ponyville adapted to the game and began to play better defence. When Sicoutimont were able to get the ball in, the shots had better placing, even though the keeper still shone in goal. It seemed like the match would continue this way and end in a 1-1 draw, but Sicoutimont were determined not to let that happen in game 1. Substitutions for Sicoutimont included Martin Blais in for Oscar de Orebale in the 67th minute, and Fernard Girard for Yves Savard in the 71st minute. Both were vital to the result of the match, as Girard's strong play with the ball in his own end led to much more time on offence for Sicoutimont later in the match. Blais would put in the cross into space for Alex Gannot, who worked his way once again into the box. His pass came to Girard Giroux, catalyst for the offensive trio, and after faking a pass to Demaru, he drove the ball into the net past the keeper. 2-1 Sicoutimont in the 79th minute.

After that, Sicoutimont was able to keep and hold onto the lead. So, they took the first match of this Copa Rushmori campaign 2-1. On the other side of Group F, it was Dixhuitiles who defeated Cassadaigua by a 4-3 score. Sicoutimont takes on Cassadaigua in the next match of the Copa campaign for the two nations, an important match to both team's chances in the campaign. A loss for Cassadaigua would eliminate them from the next round, while a loss for Sicoutimont would put them into a must-win situation on Matchday 3. On the other hand, it would be a great confidence booster for players on both teams to win a match against their southern Rushmori neighbours.

Once again, the match will be at National Olympic Stadium in San Sivar. It will certainly be a hotly contested match, and probably the highest TV ratings for a match of the entire Copa for the team, unless Sicoutimont makes a deep run. Remember to come back to the Lac-Drouin Times, the only newspaper with full access to Team Sicoutimont!

[Zenic]

“Yes, Ms. Guyman? Ah, thank you for the information,” the Emperor said as he was handed a folder with some paperwork from one of his many assistants before heading towards his office.

Emperor Proctor had just come back from a visit to the north of the empire. There, he had been touring all the land to talk to the citizens and listen to their concerns. Sure, he could simply ignore their complaints or even eliminate the complainers and dissidents. But those were the old days of the empire; this was now an empire that actually cared for its citizens. Considering the political tensions in the northwest waters of Rushmore and the happenings in Astograth, Proctor needed the people on his side in case of conflict. That plus the happier the citizens, the less likely they will revolt.

Proctor proceeded to open the doors to his office and sat down at his desk on the other side of the room. He placed the folder he had received earlier neatly down on his immaculately organized desk, a habit he picked up during his days lecturing in university. Actually, the entire office was very similar to his office back at the University of Zeno with the large bookcases behind his desk for easy access, three plants placed at random areas of the room each week as well as very similar room proportions. The only differences were the two side walls being large windows (one looking out onto the beach and ocean with the other side looking out over New Citium) and the room being located in the Emperor’s Mansion as opposed to the university in the woods halfway between New Citium and Binar.

After briefly staring out the Oceanside window from his desk, he turned his attention to the previously mentioned paperwork and opened the folder. In it, there were several reports from General Caldone detailing increased military preparedness at the borders and the creation of multiple small stations to improve the protection of the borders, primarily on the Eastern front. Luckily, he had Sicoutimont, Vaugania and Cassadaigua to the West, on which the empire was in neutral or good relations with and rather peaceful and quiet neighbors to the North and South.

Honestly, he was a bit thankful for the success of the Zenic national football team and now their current participation in the Copa Rushmori over in Alianza Albos; if the team hadn't been as successful, people might have noticed the increased military measures and started to raise more questions than they already had. It must have been hundreds of time the emperor heard questions regarding Zenic's possible future relations with Astograth, the Polar Islandstates, Pasarga, or Sargossa: heck, even with Eura. They questioned whether such future allies would be worth it or even be a safe at all. Honestly, Emperor Proctor would prefer to just mind his own business and that of the empire but he also didn't want to be caught off guard.

He honestly just hoped everything would just fade away and he could just sit back while enjoying some football.

[Polar Islandstates]

Petter Bielsen was considering his options. Privately at first, and then as publicly as possible when it was revealed to the press that his club, Iturributa United, would be accepting transfer requests from all foreign players should they wish to leave the country. It was a decision that would have to one time seemed abhorrent to the man.When the news first broke and the reporters started knocking at his door asking him if he wanted to leave, his initial disgust at the very thought was amplified by the shame he felt at knowing he'd already thought about leaving himself. It was a guilty thought, a dirty thought, and when he thought he'd been found out he'd wanted to distance himself from it as quickly as possible.

Torsten Wolff had already fled the troubles in Iturributa, moving to FC1. Surtsey Island Gulls and adding another name to the list of top strikers that would be adorning Divisjon One next season. Alexis Sand, Bielsen's own goalkeeper at United, had elected to stay - declaring himself one of those with a duty to uphold in the face of challenging environments. Bielsen could respect that, but it didn't make him want to stay any more than he already did.

The fact of the matter was, of course, that things weren't all well in the state of Iturributa.

He'd moved to the Jewel of the Modraine as a player in his mid-twenties. The Terns were in their infancy, as was Divisjon One, and when the opportunity came to move to one of the best leagues in Rushmore, he jumped at it, even if it meant leaving behind his beloved Red Star Severny. He'd played out the rest of his career with Iturributa United, and having achieved enough with club and country to be granted a place in the World Cup Hall of Fame, he then went on to become a coach, a senior coach, an assistant manager, and then manager of the club he'd given so much to. Iturributa United weren't just his employers, they were his life. Iturributa wasn't just a city, it was his home. He'd stuck by the club through the turmoil of the independence, and always thought privately that Iturributan or Astograthian, it didn't make much difference to him. So much so that on the previous occasions that Astograth started banging their swords together about retaking the province, he bore it little attention. He had a job to be getting on with, after all, and he didn't really mind which of the two nations he was living in so far as it made a difference to his day-to-day life.

But this, this was different. There was just something about the way that country was headed that he didn't trust. He had a gut feeling about it, and when Petter Bielsen gets a gut feeling about something, it's generally wise to go along with that feeling.

And so, with a heavy heart, he'd started making enquiries. Not just for him but for his young Iturributan family as well. This was their life as well as his. Of course, he would have been free to take them to the Federation any time he chose to, but a man has to work, and so discreet questions started being asked. So far, none of the answers had been to his liking.

The biggest profile managerial change likely in Divisjon One was the one that everybody linked him to at first, naturally. After decades at FC Torshavn and an important role stabilising and arrested the slump at East Franz Athletic to finish his career, Olaf Kurfuroy had retired at the end of the season with a squad full of stars that had just finished 4th in Divisjon One ready and waiting for whoever took over. in many ways, it would have been the perfect job, and yet, and yet. There was a history of bad blood between East Franz and Red Star; even though the two shared no geographical or ideological derby of any sort, a sequence of bad tempered matches season after season in the early days of Divisjon One had certainly left no love lost between the sides. From then on, it was a fixture that both sets of fans earmarked as a must-win. No, Bielsen could never take over at East Franz, and he very distinctly distances himself from the speculation.

He had for a while considered The Fallenmark Islands. The nation was taking its new Valhallan Union status and running with it, being the big push behind the formation of the new Minor Valhallan League, and the FCFA were going to be entering the World Cup qualifiers this coming cycle. They'd publicly courted the idea of selecting a member of the first ever Terns side as someone with huge experience in starting at the Baptism of Fire as the perfect managerial hire - a description that suited Bielsen perfectly - but that was a way off yet, and he'd get itchy feet waiting.

He'd even briefly considered giving Morten Rasmussen a call about the assistant's position at the Terns, but decided he wouldn't be happy if he wasn't in the big black hot-seat himself.

And then there was the option of staying on at Iturributa United. Starting in the lowest league of Astograth and working his way up wouldn't be particularly engaging until they reached the upper tiers, but it would mean staying in the city he loved and not uprooting his family.

The lack of decision either way served only to increase the press interest in the story however, and so when he received an invitation from the FPIFA to be one of their guests at the Terns' opening game of the Copa Rushmori in Alianza Albos, he leapt at the chance. Anything for a break from the constant speculation.

The room overlooking the pitch at the centre-circle was crowded with dignitaries from all over Valhallan football, and despite doing the circuit twice and chatting with lots of people, it wasn't until Jean-Eric Villeneuve's free kick in the twenty-fifth minute had given the Terns a two-nil lead over Electrum that Bielsen bumped into an old Terns team-mate of his.

"Petter!"

"Patrick, you old lanky sod! How are you?"

"I'm great thanks, yourself? I didn't even know you were in here!" exclaimed Patrick Ackermann-Finn, former striker and now television pundit.

"Oh, you know. I'm 'here'. That's a start." said Petter wryly, knowing full well what actions in Iturributa Patrick was talking about. "There are plenty of people in here I still haven't seen, to be honest. Including Mr Guus Tuulari!" replied Petter.

"Ha, why so keen to meet him in particular, eh?" winked Patrick, "You after asking him for his job?"

"Don't be daft," laughed Petter, "I just want to congratulate him. It's nice to see Red Star winning things again, and I'm glad he was able to have so much success in just his first season with the club."

"Aye," agreed Patrick, "he did really well. Look at him, though; he's mobbed. You'll be lucky to see him before half-time at this rate!"

"Indeed. Still; the food is good, the company is good, the football is getting steadily better, and I'm on holiday. So, it's not like I've nothing else to do."

"Quite." said Patrick, tucking into one of the many local delicacies the catering staff had laid on for the assembled guests in the FPIFA's suite. "So, between friends..."

"Between friends, Patrick?"

"Between friends, are you coming home?"

Petter looked around him before answering. "Well, I don't know about 'home', and I'm not even sure about leaving one hundred percent, yet, but yes. Possibly. Not guaranteed, mind, I've been talking to people all over Rushmore and nobody's biting at the moment, but things are getting pretty scary back in Iturributa. I might have to leave, yes. Alarm bells are ringing, you know?"

"Blimey," said Patrick, "I honestly hadn't realised things were looking so bleak down there, but if the great unflappable Petter Bielsen is thinking about leaving then I guess they must be."

"Yeah," agreed Petter, "I've had some rath-.. hey!"

The pair's conversation was interrupted by the sudden exit of Guus Tuulari from the room, deep in conversation on his mobile phone. He barged through the pair, fought his way to the door, and turned left with pace as son as he got into the corridor. Towards the exit.

"Yeesh, looks like you won't get the chance to congratulate him after all, Petter." said Patrick, brushing his suit to rid it of the worst of the wine he'd just tipped over himself in the confusion.

"You're not kidding!" said Petter with a hollow laugh, "Wonder what that was all about."

"I'm sure we'll find out soon enough," said Patrick.

Almost on cue, the alerts of several phones could be heard chirruping throughout the room. Suit after suit made their excuses to fumbled around in an inside pocket or handbag to find the offending electronic devices and see what they'd made a fuss about. Patrick's phone went off a split second later. He reached inside his jacket, his eyebrows shooting up as he saw what had prompted the chime.

"Well," he said, "I reckon you might want a look. This might change a few things..."

Turning his phone to show Petter, he pointed out the heavily re-blogged Chirpr post that had been the cause of the fuss. It was from a respected journalist back in Franz Josef City, and it claimed that East Franz Athletic had formally requested permission from Red Star Severny to talk to Guus Tuulari about their vacant managerial position. Petter's eyebrows also shot up, and he opened his mouth to reply when his own phone vibrated with a text alert. He opened it to discover it was from his agent.

"Tuulari as gd as gone. im talkin 2 Red Star now, they want to kno if ur interested."

Petter immediately hit the 'call' button on his phone, holding it up to his ear as he waited for it to connect and looking Patrick dead in the eye.

"You're right," he said slowly, "this changes everything."

[Isula ge Ru]

Ioa Maria Rusu Lara stared the ball straight in the face, or, at least, he stared where the ball's face would be if it had a face. Which of course it didn't. It was a ball, after all.
Ioa Maria Rusu Lara stared at the ball. With quite a bit of intensity. It was only the seventh minute of the Isulan team's first international match, and here he was. Usually, Bilha Saidomarcu Domique would be taking this free kick, but it being so far back, it was Ioa's duty.
The foul hadn't been much, just a grab of the jersey by an Alianzan player, but enough to warrant a whistle blow and a stern look. It was only the seventh minute.
Ioa looked at the ball, and gazed downfield. Now, it seemed eternally long to the other box and the precious cage in which the ball desperately needed to be put. He saw Ala Samuél Ĝea, battling a man who had him marked vigorously. But he knew Ala's technique, knew he would run from him as soon as the ball was in the air, and knew he could win it once it was.
Ioa was running before the whistle said he could.
The ball hurtled through the air, a perfect connection. Maybe a forty or fifty-yard kick. Ioa smiled. At the other end of the field, what seemed miles away, Ala made the run Ioa knew he would, soaring into the sky to trap the ball on his chest. The leap had done enough to provide Ala time to control the ball, which he did, half-turning to parallel the goal.
The moment Ala's feet had hit the ground, Elhu Micaila Saidosaquera, who had been waiting at the top of the box, took off. Thanks to the defender Ala had effectively knocked down, he was onside. Ioa's heart stopped for a second. Ala took another touch, let Elhu get closer.
Elhu had the pass at his feet just in front of the penalty spot, a little to the left. He didn't look. He didn't think. He took the ball in his stride, catching it on a small hop so it went a little higher than it looked like it should. Rafael Fuentes went low. The ball went high, and sizzled over his shoulder.
The gasp was enough to remove the oxygen from a small country. It came from Isulans and Alianzans alike. 8 minutes in, they had scored. They were up 1-0 in their first ever international. 8 minutes in. Ioa's heartbeats were indistinguishable from one another.

---

80 minutes 80 minutes they had played, and through it all, the Isulans had held their slim lead. Now, it was under attack for yet another time. Josué Flores was dancing down the sideline, controlling the ball with magnificent dexterity. Caĉiiu Ricadu Sinha, the keeper, watched him, crouched, with a tingle in his fingers.
Luckily, Ioura Masu Eĝia was tight on Flores. The crowd was tense. This could well be the Alianzan's final chance at an equilizer.
Then, Flores put on such a show as Caĉiiu had never seen. He stopped short, forcing Ioura to stop with him. But Ioura, without the gift of mind-reading, overstepped. It was only half a step, but it was half a step that Josué took full advantage of. As quick as he had stopped, he rocketed the ball down the now-empty sideline and took off in hot pursuit, leaving Ioura to wonder how he'd done it.
Only him and Caĉiiu were left, and Caĉiiu came out of the penalty box to head him off. As the two got nearer and nearer, Flores took his final touch, and Caĉiiu slid in.
If Flores had shot, Caĉiiu would have saved it. But Flores didn't shoot. Through the tangle of arms and legs and sweat that resulted from his slide, Caĉiiu could see the ball, lobbed across the box, seeking a connecting point.
Marcelo Bauza leaped over Ioa Maria Rusu Lara to provide just that.

There were four players on the ground in the six-yard box, and one hundred thousand fans on their feet in the stands. "Bauza!" echoed across the nation. They'd found their equilizer.

---

Memorandum

The Isulan Beaureu of Tourism and Culture
Attn. All
Urgent
Re: Copa Rushmori

Dear All,

With apologies for the short notice and perhaps difficult request,
As you know, the Copa Rushmori is being held in Alianza Albos, and the hosts have asked that those participating offer something "unique" to their country.
We were wondering if an abriged version of the Epic of Eréa could be obtained and published in an effort to showcase Isulan culture and values.
As you know, this is not just a football tournament, but is the largest event on the continent and our nation is one that could use exposure.

Thank you,

The Isulan Beaureu of Tourism and Culture

[Alianza Albos]

---

Welcome to the White Hell Magazine, official newspaper of Alianza Albos National Team

---

Time to be the real stronk host.

By: Karlsen Ruiz
@KaRuiz10 in Elephant
3:35 PM

Since we arrived in Rushmore, had been an inactive nation in the plane of the sport, from the inscription to Rushmori 18 Cup began, the federation decided to place no doubt , but few or rather no one in this country imagined host this edition of this prestigious tournament, I imagine who might think that would be branded as crazy, but that craziness delirium came true , where Saio money to create the infrastructure , no idea, the more it seems that this is cleared of a storybook because of how fast it worked the Fasistas, they finally did a good job, that scum of the nation, the filth of the world had the good kindly disposition to build this so fast, applause to the Fasistas, they finally left the wimp to side.

As for the group that we had in the draw, I can tell. Darmen is an old acquaintance for those who play or live some time in SJG , I remember when the All-Greens defeated SJG or when SJG lost the game at the last second , in conclusion Darmen is a very strong team that demonstrates its potential at the right time and press the opponent in a very intense way , lies in wait for the fotuna and beautiful gypsy who threw the cards , do not know but I hope so we smile fortune.

Other opponents will Taeshan, another old acquaintance for our brothers of SJG , very old acquaintance whom they beat twice 1-0 in the WC 67, before it took off in talent, from my perspective is Taeshan as a tough opponent and tradition, but a little loose and defense to beat and so we hope to move to the next phase, I hope the fans support the team and the team put Their balls in the game.

Finally, we have Isula ge Ru, a rival who apparently is hard but it is your first time like us , this team is a bit familiar to us because one of their teams in the domestic league of the islands, they beated, specifically Ultra Blanca AFC, the team that brings the player base for the national team, but hopefully not repeat the result.

Ouch, Isula ge Ru tied us.

A last minute goal from Marcelo Bauza gave the tie to AlianzaAlbos, who nearly suffered their first defeat in the tournament, with the goal Alianza Albos is in second place in Group A with just one point, the next opponent will durpo for players in a game where there is already packed full guarantee, as much a Fasista was arrested for making vandalism in typical expression to make a graffiti outside the stadium, in addition to a reckless act towards the props of the delegation of Valladares, which embraced Pedrinho but was instantly caught by the police.

In other news, the National Police is ready device in order to use the classic of Polar Islandstates vs Sargossa, which has very spiteful dyes due to political problems, according to the police to capture fan who plans to make public disorder.

[Alianza Albos]

It's the second matchday cutoff, can somebody qualify? or will somebody return to house? you'll discover it in some minutes.

EDIT: Grammar

Matchday Two Results

Group A

Alianza Albos 0-3 Darmen
Taeshan 1-0 Isula ĝe Ru

Group A                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Taeshan                 2    2   0   0     2    0   +2     6
2 Darmen                  2    1   0   1     3    1   +2     3
3 Isula ĝe Ru             2    0   1   1     1    2   −1     1
4 Alianza Albos           2    0   1   1     1    4   −3     1

Group B

Svengarda 1–3 Saintland
Mytannion 4–2 Charruterra

Group B                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Mytannion                    2   1  1  0    6   4  +2    4
2 Saintland                    2   1  1  0    5   3  +2    4
3 Charruterra                  2   0  1  1    4   6  −2    1
4 Svengarda                    2   0  1  1    3   5  −2    1

Group C

Electrum 1–1 Sargossa
Polar Islandstates 1–0 Sameba

Group C                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Polar Islandstates           2   2  0  0    5   0  +5    6
2 Sargossa                     2   1  1  0    2   1  +1    4
3 Electrum                     2   0  1  1    1   5  −4    1
4 Sameba                       2   0  0  2    0   2  −2    0

Group D

Eastern Sunrise Islands 0–0 Patistan
Eura 3–2 Saugeais

Group D                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Eura                         2   2  0  0    4   2  +2    6
2 Saugeais                     2   1  0  1    3   3   0    3
3 Eastern Sunrise Islands      2   0  1  1    0   1  −1    1
  Patistan                     2   0  1  1    0   1  −1    1

Group E

Itanpavia 0–1 Zenic
Irad 3–0 Ancharmunn

Group E                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Irad                         2   1  1  0    4   1  +3    4
2 Zenic                        2   1  1  0    1   0  +1    4
3 Itanpavia                    2   0  1  1    1   2  −1    1
4 Ancharmunn                   2   0  1  1    0   3  −3    1

Group F

Dixhuitiles 1–0 New Ponyville
Cassadaigua 0–1 Sicoutimont

Group F                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Dixhuitiles                  2   2  0  0    5   3  +2    6
2 Sicoutimont                  2   2  0  0    3   1  +2    6
3 Cassadaigua                  2   0  0  2    3   5  −2    0
4 New Ponyville                2   0  0  2    1   3  −2    0

Group G

Falcus 0–1 Alitaba
Valladares 3–2 Astograth

Group G                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valladares                   2   2  0  0    7   5  +2    6
2 Alitaba                      2   1  1  0    3   2  +1    4
3 Astograth                    2   0  1  1    4   5  −1    1
4 Falcus                       2   0  0  2    3   5  −2    0

Group H

Macquarrie 2–3 Kernansquillec
Pasarga 2–0 Filopines

Group H                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pasarga                      2   2  0  0    6   1  +5    6
2 Kernansquillec               2   1  1  0    5   4  +1    4
3 Filopines                    2   0  1  1    2   4  −2    1
4 Macquarrie                   2   0  0  2    3   7  −4    0

Key:

Qualified for Round of 16
Eliminated.

[Svengarda]

(OOC: Forgive me, I got caught up with other stuff )

Svenga Squad for the Copa Rushmori

The Coach: Luke Thompson (The Licentian Islaes) Style Mod: +2

He managed Colesham Athletic previously, but is most famous for his time as co-manager of the Licentian national team, along with Nathan Gardiner-Stewart. He is known as a tactician; while Nathan motivated the team, Luke made the tough personnel decisions that a former player couldn't. Thompson has since proven himself as a solo manager with some fairly successful seasons with Colesham Athletic, and is looking to get back into international management, in the hope that, in the future, he can manage the Cyan-and-Gold solo. He took Svengarda into the group stages of the World Cup for the second time, but will be disappointed that he couldn't take the Ice Hawks any further than the play-offs.

Assistant Coach: Kuri Levallånen (42 years old)

He came into the side in rather unfortunate circumstances. Former Assistant Coach Röben Eriksson, former soldier, has retired from coaching due to the injuries he sustained whilst fighting got worse. Kuri was coach of Stormskamer IGK before taking the assistant coaching role.

Squad

Goalkeepers

Vanja Albertsen (12 caps - 0 goals - 24 y/o - HJK Helsirn)

A new talent rising up through the ranks of the domestic league, Vanja stands at a staggering 6ft 10", and has the natural build for a goalkeeper. Since the retirement of 40 year old Pal Lorsen, Albertsen has had to step up to the plate and keep for the national team. A great physical presence in the box, but sometimes he can lose his position around the goal and leave himself open to mistakes.

Jarmo Jakinen (1 caps - 0 goals - 21 y/o - MTK)

Another young talent with fantastic vision and great hands, but lacks first-team experience and the commanding skills of a keeper. Will be immediate back-up for Albertsen, and the World Cup will be a huge learning curve for him.

Eremeni Saari (1 caps - 0 goals - 26 y/o - Valkeavuoren SK)

The reserve keeper drafted into the squad after Lorsen's retirement, Saari has shown several good performances in the domestic league, and as a reward has gained a place in the World Cup Squad.

Defenders

Tommi Nikula (26 caps - 2 goals - 26 y/o - Helsirn CSKA)

One of the several new young players in the squad, Nikula is regarded as the natural successor to Strostrand. A talented wing back as well as a dominant defender in the box and around. Possessing incredible power and extreme acceleration and having the ability to lay killer crosses, Tommi is always the one to spark a counter-attack.

Reko Saari (43 caps - 2 goals - 37 y/o - PPMPA Korska)

One of the ageing stalwarts in the squad Saari is a big man who creates a big presence in the centre of defence. Saari, despite being one of the elder players, he still has a youthful energy about him. He can also be a threat down the other end of the pitch when it comes to corners and crosses. Seriously ageing now, but has one qualifying campaign left in him.

Georg Raske (62 caps - 2 goals - 35 y/o - GKS Erem) CAPTAIN

Georg went from fringe player in earlier World Cups to team captain, rather surprisingly, in the last edition of the competition. Andfossen announced this shortly before the rest of squad annoucement, much to the surprise of the press and just about every fan in the country. After Strostrand had retired, winger Rihards Ruotsalainen was made favourite to be made captain, with Raske at 250/1. Raske is a brick wall in defence, not known for his pace, but able to shut down any play from any number of attacking players.

Saar Bjørnsen (18 caps - 0 goals - 31 y/o - FCK Lupa)

Bjørnsen long has been tipped to be the new Torbjorn Lindstørm, who led the side to their Baptism of Fire victory. He is bigger than his predecessor, standing at 6ft 4" inches, he is not someone you want to run into at speed. We've seen him in two World Cups, and he hasn't quite fulfilled his huge expectations. He has played one or two blinders, but otherwise he has been average. The fans are expecting big things from this man.

Luka Jarvinen (50 caps - 4 goals - 31 y/o - GKS Erem)

He moves with incredible pace when chasing down opposition attackers, and is always in the right place to block a shot or make that last ditch tackle which he has done plenty of times in the past. Good friends with both Raske and Levallånen, they like to joke around and the occasionally don't take the game entirely seriously.

Mikkel Strand (31 caps - 2 goals - 29 y/o - PPMPA Korska)

He's spent a lot of time warming the bench, wrapped up in the numerous layers of SFA-supplied kit, but this might be his breakthrough, with some very talented performances in the domestic game. When he has played, he has shown an adept ability to use the ball from deep and create situations from defence. If he perhaps gets a bit more game time, he could develop his skills and become a real talent, perhaps playing in Defensive midfield or even Midfield.

Eemil Tähtinen (6 caps - 0 goals - 23 y/o - Helsirn CSKA)

An ex-long distance runner who chose football over athletics, Eemil's epic stamina has already been demonstrated in the Superliga. He can just keep going, hour after hour, week-in-week-out. Although his defensive skills might not earn him a regular starting place, he has the potential to become the 'super-sub' for the squad, able to fill in every game.

Midfielders

Hakan Lager (45 caps - 4 goals - 33 y/o - Stormskamer IGK)

A dynamic footballer, Hakan is powerful on both the wing and in and around the area. He has been second place to Jazēps Vang in recent times, and it looks to continue like that as Vang has put in some particularly good performances over the last few months. But nevertheless he has everything a good winger needs: pace, power and good passing ability.

Aatu Jokela (13 caps - 2 goals - 22 y/o - Stormskamer IGK)

Another product of the Stormskamer youth system, Aatu is your typical defensive midfielder, hard hitting tackler and great at spying the long balls required to beat the offside trap and release the forwards. Endless energy and stamina mean that he can cover every square inch of the pitch, make a tackle then track back, before running forward with the counter-attack.

Loreen Steffanssen (21 caps - 7 goals - 23 y/o - Rasmussen SK)

Although Women have always been accepted into the men's national side, the appearance of the two Steffansson's (Kari and Loreen, unrelated) is the first occurrence of this. A perfectly all-round footballer, she is considered to be a lot better than her male counter-parts. Height, strength, a good touch and pace are just some of her many assets which make her a great footballer. Young, still only 19, experience might be her only weakness.

Timo Laathi (28 caps - 2 goals - 26 y/o - West Skal City SK)

Former captain of the U21s, Timo is one of the few players who make the leap from U21 regular to first team regular. No one is sure why there aren't more. Timo is a good roving midfielder, who can operate both in a central role or as a winger or attacking midfielder, but can also drop back and defend like a centre back or a sweeper would. Good close control and excellent footwork make him troublemaker for opposition defences, and also has a good close range shooting ability.

Lukas Aarnsen (1 caps - 1 goals - 20 y/o - HIFK)

Having lived most of his life in the Polar Islandstates, Aarnsen used his mother's Svenga heritage to make himself eligible for selection for Svengarda, as it seemed like an easier option. He originally started out as a striker, but found his strength and creativity better served in the midfield.

Jazēps Vang (51 caps - 7 goals - 30 y/o - DGNC Helsingborg)

A versatile midfield player, he likes to experiment with the ball, and will often try outrageous tricks, just to see if they work. When on form, he is unstoppable, every trick seeming to come off and every reverse-spinning-backheel finding its target. Combine this ingenuity with proper winger's pace always make him a joy to watch for any football fan.

Jame Laukkanen (2 caps - 1 goals - 21 y/o - HJK Helsirn)

Another U21s player, Jame combines searing pace with great vision and good ball control to make him into a formidable winger on the pitch. Young, without much experience, he might be asked to drop straight into the national side on the other side of Kari Steffanssen.

Strikers

Truls Waaserson (68 caps - 38 goals - 35 y/o - Morata Valley (Vilita)

Svengarda's goal factory, and main source of goals for the entire Andfossen regime. A superb first and final touch make Truls deadly as soon as he picks up the ball in the area. He works a lot off his team, taking crosses from the wingers and through-balls from midfielders, and works well by himself or with fellow strikers. In this case, he will be working in front of Svein Danielsen/Kari Steffansson as the sole striker. Another player coming to the end of the line, he will want to finish with one last qualification.

Svein Danielsen (54 caps - 19 goals - 31 y/o - Ferdullaele FC (Farfadillis)

A striker on the same par as Truls Waaserson when it comes to goal scoring ability, but Svein has had to live most of his footballing life in the attacking-midfield role, and that's where he'll play for this WC. Good speed and strength make him ideal for this role, as well as the skill of placing a pass, which is key for playing a single striker. Making a name for himself overseas in Farfadillis, scoring more goals for Ferdullaele FC than the legendary Val Kylx.

Serko Jansen (19 caps - 7 goals - 26 y/o - FCK Lupa)

Serko has gained his place on the merit of his domestic performances for FCK Lupa. His appearance in the side is much to the distaste of the player he replaced; Boghos Danielsen. Serko doesn't expect much play, but when he does, he adds an element of the sublime to his play, and has a habit for scoring some quite brilliant goals, from 25-yard screamers to deft chips.

Kari Steffanssen (9 caps - 3 goals - 23 y/o - DGNC Helsingborg)

The second of the Steffanssen's (again, not related) in the squad, Kari is a small and nimble winger/attacking midfielder, using her surging pace and lightning quick feet to create trouble for any defence. Her ability to get into small spaces in the box always makes her a nuisance to opposition.

--Albertsen--

--Nikula--Saari--Raske (c)--Jarvinen--

--Lager--L. Steffansson--Jokela--Vang--

--K. Steffanssen--

--Waaserson--

Choose my goalscorers - Yes
Godmod scoring events - Yes
RP injuries to my players - Yes
Godmod injuries to my players - Yes (but no killing)
Hand out yellow cards to my players - Yes
Hand out red cards to my players - Yes
Godmod other events - Yes (TG me if silly/extreme)

[Kernansquillec]

Kernansquillec close to qualification

The Green and White won their second must-win game to get within a point of making it to the knockout stages on their return to the Copa Rushmori. Group leaders, Pasarga, have already secured a place in the round of 16, but if they want to win the group they will need at least a point against Kernansquillec. Meanwhile, Filopines need to win against eliminated Macquarrie to stand a hope of qualifying.

Around 20,000 Kernansquillecans made the trip to Alianza Albos to watch Kernansquillec Macquarrie in the all-important match. After a 2-2 draw against Filopines in their first game, the Kernansquillecan was once against exposed, conceding two goals. A combination of Yegos hitting a bad patch and Stoke's lack of confidence mean that the central partnerships of Dubois-Yegos or Dubois-Stoke haven't been working all to well. Some eyes will be turning towards the Di Bradini Cup to take a look at who could make the step up to the first team at this rate.

Thankfully however the forwards have been on fire yet again. Lilac got himself a goal to level it all at one all. Fengouli scored a second to give the Kers the lead. But it took a third from Iris to seal a nervy win. The Green and Whites will need to do better if they want to qualify and go a bit further in the Cup.

Some 25,000 Kers supporters are expected to be in the stadium for tonight's clash and KERFA have just released the line-up: Ellysa (GK); Yegos, Kellah, Dubois, Cressac; Fengouli, Quaby (C); Iris, Noupen, Poutre; Lilac

Around Alianza Albos: 7 teams have qualified for the round of 16 already, namely Polar Islandstates, Taeshan and Valladares. 6 teams are only looking forward to a nice summer break with their tournament over. Cassadaigua is one of the big name casualties in a Group F where only it's only a question of who will finish 1st and 3rd rather than who will qualify or not.

[Taeshan]

http://chirb.it/y1gzam

[Ancharmunn]

Charmunnry representative team

Goalkeeper – Shane Burke – 47 y/o
Goalkeeper – Iarfhlaith Ó Nualláin – 30 y/o
Right back – Declan Murray – 36 y/o
Centre back – Teague O'Donnell – 20 y/o
Centre back – Donal O'Doherty – 40 y/o
Left back – Aidan Wilson – 25 y/o
Utility defender – Fintan Ward – 32 y/o
Right wing – Kenny Keane – 28 y/o
Centre midfield – Ciarán Mac Craith – 32 y/o
Centre midfield – Finn Burke – 24 y/o
Left wing – Rory O'Carroll – 23 y/o
Utility midfielder – Ruadhrí Ó Néill – 47 y/o
Forward – Oran Duffy – 39 y/o
Forward – Rory MacDonald – 17 y/o
Forward – Donagh MacDonald – 49 y/o
Utility player – Finn Maher – 54 y/o

RP Permissions

I give my opponent permission to:
Choose my goalscorers: Y
Godmod scoring events: Y
Give my players yellow cards: Y
Give my players red cards: Y
Give injuries to my players: Y
Godmod injuries to my players: Y
Godmod other events: Y

[Zenic]

“Okay. Yes, Yes. Glad that worked out. I’ll talk to you soon. Good bye.”

Emperor Proctor hung up and leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on the armrests. The person on the other land had been his Minister of Finance, Kyle Butler. The call concerned the allocated funds for the Acquan refugees after the second time wall incident. With a sudden population increase of 2%, all budgets and spending had to be revised and since it was on such short notice, Proctor had feared that the empire would be short on money. Luckily, there was a bit of a surplus this year so there was no need for too much of a revision of budgets.

The Acquans had been delegated a slice of land on the west coast across the bay from New CItium as a refugee camp until the Acquans decided on what they wanted to do. The camp was a work in progress but bearable to live in. For now, they got along well with the citizens of Zenic but Proctor knew it would not last If too much of Zenic’s money went to supporting the refugees. Unfortunately, that added just another things on his list of issues to deal with.

Luckily, they were times the Emperor could just sit back, relax and watch some sports. He turned his television on to the Lyger broadcasting channel to watch the highlights of the Zenic vs. Itanpavia match. The main highlight proved to be the header by Reichton star Daniel Oliver Barnsley in the 57th minute of the game to put Zenic up 1-0, which is score the game ended with. Now, they just needed to win or tie with Irad and Zenic would advance.

“Let’s hope a Zenic squad coming home early from the Copa Rushmori isn’t another I have to worry about,” Emperor Proctor said as he shut off the television and went back to work.

[Sargossa]

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition - Sport


World Cup Hangover


Blanco Borrayo reports from Saint Joseph;

The qualification campaign for the recently completed sixty eighth edition of the World Cup was a particularly galling experience. More so given the cruel nature of the Corsairs exit, an away goals defeat to Neu Engollon in the final playoff round. And that disappointment seems to have manifested in a national side leaning queasily over the metaphorical toilet bowl, clutching the metaphorical porcelain for dear life, hissing in pain at even the slightest metaphorical noise and once again vowing to never ever indulge in a World Cup football binge ever again. Metaphorically speaking.

Laboured would probably be the best description of Sargossa’s opening fixture in Group C of this Copa Rushmori. Opponents Sameba are hardly a name in international sport but the Archipelago’s finest still struggled to break down a limited yet resolute defence, despite enjoying some 68% of the possession. The final delivery was the problem, as ball after ball sailed wide or dropped short or were simply cut out by a defender. Even the normally so reliable Rodrigo Defederico struggled to find his range, best exemplified when substitute Stefano Bustos’ knockdown found the Oyardo FC midfielder unmarked inside the penalty area only to see Defederico’s shot fly unerringly into the face of an overweight child sat in row G. Three points were eventually secured, when big Bustos headed in Ávila’s corner, but it was hardly a display to strike fear into the collective heart of the wider region.

Against Sameba the below-par Corsairs just about found a way to win, against a spirited Electrum effort sub-par simply wasn’t good enough. There was really only one side in the first half but The Butt Kickers, as they’re probably not known, managed to waste a number of decent chances before Electrum forward Alexander Krane took full advantage of a sluggish offside trap to give the underdogs a deserved lead. Admittedly that goal did seem to spur Ernesto Farías’ charges into some semblance of life and the second half was a much more even affair. Electrum defended stoutly but for the first time in this tournament Sargossa were actually playing like six time Copa finalists. Ferreyra missed one good chance, Defederico another but the Corsairs wouldn’t be denied and bagged a point after Saturnín Quinteros lashed home a fierce drive from the edge of the penalty area.

Four points from two games isn’t exactly form to intimidate the rest of the field but qualification to the next round is still there for the taking, something winning game three would ensure. And joy oh joy look who it is. It’s only the ruddy Polarians. How lovely. Somehow, after the embarrassment of not even reaching the World Cup Final, Morten Rasmussen has clung on to his job and leads the Terns in their biannual efforts to prove even more unbearable than usual by lifting Rushmore’s most prestigious prize. And they’ve not started too badly, with two wins on the board and no goals conceded. Faced with the much vaunted ‘Pythagorean’ Farías’ boys will probably employ the traditional Sargossan response to such tactical complexity, by resorting to ill temperament, spitting and the occasional sharp kick right to the Nethertopians. Or ‘El Burro’ as we’ve never called it. Out of defence will go tricky fallbacks Damían and Abeyta, in will come the much larger Matías Sosa and José Toranzo. In midfield Ivan Ávila is set to be dropped, with Defederico pushed further forward and Matías Escobar coming in to partner Lucas Ramís in the centre. Both Ramis and Escobar have been described in the pre-tournament team literature as ‘midfield destroyers’, which should give you some idea as to the thought processes involved within the team management.

Given its relatively close proximity to both the Sargossan heartland and the Polar Islandstates Alianza Albos has enjoyed (or endured depending on your point of view) a healthy influx of fans from both nations and consequently there looks set to be a packed house at the National Colisseum for the matchday three encounter. Something which hasn’t escaped the attention of the local authorities whose national police have been placed on high alert ahead of the fixture. Although they need not worry too much as unlike our Polarian neighbours (who hate you and everything you stand for) we happen to be conscious of the fact that the actions of Sargossans abroad reflect on the nation as a whole. Accordingly the government has sent a small team of security personnel to liaise with the local police and, prior to the match, the Foreign Ministry in Soluca issued a stark warning to any would-be troublemakers. It stated that any Sargossan national found guilty of contravening Alianza Albos law would be expelled from the country and, upon their return to Sargossa, would face consequences that would make your eyes water.

[Sicoutimont]

The Lac-Drouin Times
Sport: Sicoutians Victorious In Match With Cassadaigua

SAN SIVAR (ALIANZA ALBOS) -- The Copa Rushmori continued today, with important group stage match-ups. Today for Sicoutimont was Cassadaigua, in a match highly anticipated by the media and the players. ''They (Cassadaigua) have a strong side, as they always do, and it'll be a tough match-up for us, but I think we can pull it out,'' dropped Yves Savard in the pre-game interview. ''It's always fun to play a team geographically close to you, and this is no different,'' Girard Giroux continued. Today's match was very important for both teams.

Sicoutimont came into the match off a 2-1 victory over New Ponyville. Strong goals from Alex Gannot and Girard Giroux and strong play on defence helped the team to the win. With Cassadaigua losing to Dixhuitles as well yesterday, that put the Sicoutians and the team from Dixhuitles in a strong position on day 2, able to ensure qualification to the Second Round. Sicoutimont were fighting for a top 2 spot in the group, but on the other hand, Cassadaigua were fighting for their lives at this Copa Rushmori. Sicoutian and Dixhuitle wins would eliminate both Cassadaigua and New Ponyville. While in Copa Rushmori ranks, Sicoutimont has the advantage, our western neighbours have us beat in football history, with 2 World Cups and a Cup of Harmony to put on the mantle. The first match between the teams in a competitive environment was on this date for football, although baseball and hockey teams have met up before in other tournaments.

It was another great day at the National Olympic Stadium in San Sivar as these teams took to the pitch. Strong crosses were once again the key to Sicoutimont's success, but they were not executed well early on. Too many times a cross from the sides didn't reach its target, and too many more was the cross not properly received in the box. For the first 20 minutes, Sicoutimont were scrambled and scattered on offence, while the defence held on well in the back field. Alain Rivcoucher was also solid in goal, providing some strong saves in the goal. Sicoutimont were quick to adapt what wasn't working and fix it, and eventually got some good chances in the later bit of the first half.

The first of those good chances came in the 38th minute, with a strong run by Girard Giroux, who found Gaspard Demaru just outside the box. A strong shot, however, wasn't enough to beat the keeper, and it was kept aside. On the ensuing corner, danger was once again caused by Sicoutimont, Alex Gannot putting a perfect cross in from the corner and the goal just missed by Giroux, who nailed the cross bar instead. The goal kick, however, took the pressure off, and the danger was mostly averted by Cassadaigua for now.

Only 3 minutes later, however, Cassadaigua were putting the pressure back onto Sicoutimont. A slide tackle by Oscar de Orebale was the only thing that stopped the shot from just outside the box, and de Orebale was swiftly booked with a yellow card. It was admittedly a dirty play, and de Orebale agreed and did not fight the call. The ensuing free kick was a close call for the Sicoutian defence; the shot curved just above the wall and Alain Rivcoucher was very lucky to get a glove to tip it out of play and keep the score knotted at 0-0. When the whistle blew to end the first half, two main stories stood in the game for Sicoutimont; the success of Alain Rivcoucher, who has shown he is one of the best keepers in the region since he earned the shirt last Copa, and the offensive struggles early on.

The second half began much better for Sicoutimont. Strong offence was found, and they began to move the ball faster and quicker up the field. Crosses were once again utilised, and in the 52nd minute, Sicoutimont found the back of the net. A long ball from Yves Savard made its way to Martin Blais (Subbed for de Orebale at the half), who played it in to Gaspard Demaru. It took some time to move around the defenders, but he played it perfectly, and soon enough, he had sent the ball into the goal. Now, the scored was 1-0 for Sicoutimont.

Sicoutimont kept pushing hard in the next minutes, but it was not enough to extend the lead. Great attempts were foiled at both ends, a strong shot from the edge of the box kept out by Rivcoucher and a similar attempt by Giroux stopped by the keeper. Outside of those chances, it was a rare shot in the final minutes, and Sicoutimont were rather uneventfully able to hold onto the victory. Earlier in the day Dixhuitiles had defeated New Ponyville, which set up the last matches of the group stage in Group F.

Cassadaigua and New Ponyville are both eliminated, and will play on Matchday 3 for pride. On the other hand, Sicoutimont and Dixhuitiles have assured qualification to the Second Round, and will play to see who comes first in the group. The winner of the group will play second placed in Group E, the qualifiers of which have not yet been decided. A draw would give the group to Dixhutiles, who have the better goal differential between the two teams. ''It's certainly a big match, we know we're going through, but that number 1 position is always beneficial later in the tournament,'' said Marc Denis.

It'll certainly be an important match, so watch and remember that The Lac-Drouin Times is the only newspaper with inside access to Team Sicoutimont!

[Polar Islandstates]

Bielsen Charters Flight To Severny
Charter Flight Company Shows Flight Booked From Saint Joseph To Severny

A charter flight company based in Alianza Albos has caused a stir in the Federation tonight when users on the social networking site Chirpr noticed they listed their availability publicly on their website. This list of dates they were unavailable also included information on why, with the key flight of interest being a flight from Saint Joseph to to Severny for this evening in the name of a 'P Bielsen'. With speculation over the vacant Red Star Severny managerial position looking to have therefore been proved correct, this information has seen odds on the former player being installed officially as manager in the coming days.

For Red Star fans it has been a turbulent few seasons. After Mathias Paatelainen was whisked away by San Jose Guayabal to lead them into the World Cup for the first time, it was much to the dismay of fans who'd grown to trust the stability he provided. The appointment of Viipuri manager Guus Tuulari had then not only cost the team money they could ill afford to spend, but would also divide the fan base for the first half of the season. Things picked up of course, and the highest league position in many seasons was supplemented by a famous Latitude Cup win. Tuulari had well and truly won over the fans.

Things are so rarely that simple in football of course, and Red Star fans have been vocally angry about the way Tuulari's apparent tapping up by East Franz was handled by both clubs and the FPIFA. The pain of this betrayal will be soothed significantly should club hero Bielsen put pen to paper on the dotted line. As soon as the position became open again the speculation on Bielsen's employment status began, twice as intense as it was last season given the current political turmoil in Astograth and Iturributa. Second time would appear to be the charm however, and with a series of phone calls between Novaya Zemlya and Alianza Albos - where Bielsen is one of a number of guests the FPIFA is entertaining at the Copa Rushmori - understood to have take place in the days since Kolehmainen's goal against Sameba, it would appear that Bielsen is off to the Federation to move things along. Odds have shortened dramatically.

Such a flight is poorly timed for a football fanatic like Bielsen, as it means he will be in the air flying over Oygruppen during the climactic group decider against Sargossa. Particularly so as a number of youngsters in the squad including Red Star Severny players are expected to be given a run-out by Rasmussen with progress to the knock-out stages already guaranteed, despite the high-profile nature of the opponent. These include new signing from Mytannion Vasek Frederiksen, goalkeeper Leif Ulsletten, and known Bielsen target from his time at Iturributa United, Willem Otkupshchikov. Midfielder Jens Niemanen and former Severny star Victor Larsen are also expected to start the match, with Rasmussen apparently deciding to fight fire with fire when it comes to the big players. Willem Otkupshchikov in particular is noted for his size, whilst Svenbjorn Einarsson - who will retain his place in the line-up - has previous against Sargossa, having been sent off against them in the past. It should make for an entertaining hard-hitting match, and Bielsen will no doubt be pained to be missing it.

Matches against Sargossa are always must-win matches for the Terns, and those players with an investment in the Bielsen-to-Severny story will just have to put it out of their heads for the time being. Rasmussen will expect nothing but professionalism from them on the pitch, and that's how you win games. Particularly against a side like Sargossa.

Off the pitch there are no such requirements however, and we do have one final question for our esteemed international colleagues over at SSM, however... - "If third place is 'embarrassing', how do you look your mothers in the eye?"

[Isula ge Ru]

Dabiit Ducau Ĉiaba backpedaled, seemingly for the twentieth time that day. There was no doubt, this Taeshan side was tough. Very tough.
The man Dabiit was marking, Jansen Cardinal, shifted yet again, forcing Dabiit to compensate. As it crossed his mind that this was a stupid idea, Jansen made a run, forcing Dabiit to run with him.
Thank God it was almost halftime, anything more might be a little too much.
Dabiit caught up with Jansen, just as the ball came his way. He trapped it, using his body to shield it from Dabiit. Dabiit's tackle, while legal, was hard, and as he cleared it, he heard Jansen's slight gasp of pain. The game went on, but soon the fourth official indicated the first substitution of the game, removing Jansen and replacing him with Lysander Ying Uing.
It took Dabiit about twenty-five seconds to realize that he wanted to mark Lysander Ying Uing about as much as he wanted to replace the grass under his feet with nails. Ying Uing flitted across the field, screwing up Dabiit's routine royally, and tearing apart the entire fabric of the Isulan defense.

In the forty-first minute, there was a massive gash torn.
Ying Uing had the ball in the middle, as usual, making things difficult for the defense. Suddenly, he tapped the ball to striker Gregory Fawkes and took off. When Fawkes played the ball right back to him, it was a simple matter of two touches before he had a shot straight into the corner.
Caĉiiu Ricadu Sinha leaped magnificently, but the majestic jump was futile. The ball hit the back of the net, and Taeshan had a 1-0 lead, which they would hold for a Round of Sixteen spot.

---

Qualification Scenarios

Group A                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Taeshan                 2    2   0   0     2    0   +2     6
2 Darmen                  2    1   0   1     3    1   +2     3
3 Isula ĝe Ru             2    0   1   1     1    2   −1     1
4 Alianza Albos           2    0   1   1     1    4   −3     1

Perhaps uniquely, going into the final matchday, every team in Group A can still qualify. As Taeshan takes on Alianza Albos and Darmen prepares to play Isula ĝe Ru, the results of the next game are critical.
Taeshan is already qualified, but their result against Alianza Albos is still an important piece in the qualification picture.
For Darmen to qualify, they need a victory against Isula ĝe Ru. A draw and a Taeshan draw, win, or loss by less than five points is also possible.
Isula ĝe Ru is eliminated with anything but a win against Darmen, and if Alianza Albos wins as well, Isula ĝe Ru's margin of victory must be more than two less Alianza Albos'
Alianza Albos needs to defeat Taeshan, and also needs either a Darmen win or draw or to make up a goal differential deficit of -2 if they and Isula ĝe Ru both win.

[Alianza Albos]

Matchday Three Results.

EDIT: To add details about the fixtures.

Group A*Scorinated by Valladares

Taeshan 1-0 Alianza Albos
Darmen 1-1 Isula ĝe Ru

Group A                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Taeshan                 3    3   0   0     3    0   +3     9
2 Darmen                  3    1   1   1     4    2   +2     4
3 Isula ĝe Ru             3    0   2   1     2    3   −1     2
4 Alianza Albos           3    0   1   2     1    5   −4     1

Group B

Charruterra 2–0 Svengarda
Saintland 1–2 Mytannion

Group B                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Mytannion                    3   2  1  0    8   5  +3    7
2 Saintland                    3   1  1  1    6   5  +1    4*
3 Charruterra                  3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4
4 Svengarda                    3   0  1  2    3   7  −4    1

*Saintland ahead of Charruterra in H2H Goal Difference.

Group C

Sameba 0–1 Electrum
Sargossa 1–2 Polar Islandstates

Group C                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Polar Islandstates           3   3  0  0    7   1  +6    9
2 Sargossa                     3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4*
3 Electrum                     3   1  1  1    2   5  −3    4
4 Sameba                       3   0  0  3    0   3  −3    0

*Sargossa ahead of Electrum in H2H Goal Difference.

Group D

Saugeais 0–0 Eastern Sunrise Islands
Patistan 2–5 Eura

Group D                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Eura                         3   3  0  0    9   4  +5    9
2 Saugeais                     3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4
3 Eastern Sunrise Islands      3   0  2  1    0   1  −1    2
4 Patistan                     3   0  1  2    2   6  −4    1

Group E

Ancharmunn 4–0 Itanpavia
Zenic 1–2 Irad

Group E                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Irad                         3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7
2 Ancharmunn                   3   1  1  1    4   3  +1    4*
3 Zenic                        3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4
4 Itanpavia                    3   0  1  2    1   6  −5    1

*Ancharmunn ahead of Zenic in H2H Goal Difference

Group F

Sicoutimont 3–2 Dixhuitiles
New Ponyville 1–3 Cassadaigua

Group F                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sicoutimont                  3   3  0  0    6   3  +3    9
2 Dixhuitiles                  3   2  0  1    7   6  +1    6
3 Cassadaigua                  3   1  0  2    6   6   0    3
4 New Ponyville                3   0  0  3    2   6  −4    0

Group G

Astograth 3–2 Falcus
Alitaba 1–1 Valladares

Group G                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valladares                   3   2  1  0    8   6  +2    7
2 Alitaba                      3   1  2  0    4   3  +1    5
3 Astograth                    3   1  1  1    7   7   0    4
4 Falcus                       3   0  0  3    5   8  −3    0

Group H

Filopines 1–0 Macquarrie
Kernansquillec 1–2 Pasarga

Group H                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pasarga                      3   3  0  0    8   2  +6    9
2 Kernansquillec               3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4*
3 Filopines                    3   1  1  1    3   4  −1    4
4 Macquarrie                   3   0  0  3    3   8  −5    0

*Kernansquillec ahead of Filopines in H2H Goal Difference.

Key:

Advanced to Round of 16.
Eliminated of contention.

Round of Sixteen, Fixtures.

To be played in Saturday, May 17th

Stadia listed with the assigned key number to the match can be found in the IC post.

Ro16 N°1: Taeshan vs Saintland
Ro16 N°2: Darmen vs Mytannion
Ro16 N°3: Polar Islandstates vs Saugeais
Ro16 N°4: Sargossa vs Eura.
Ro16 N°5: Irad vs Dixhuitiles
Ro16 N°6: Ancharmunn vs Sicoutimont
Ro16 N°7: Valladares vs Kernansquillec
Ro16 N°8: Alitaba vs Pasarga

[Taeshan]

http://chirb.it/yaehzP

[Sargossa]

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition - Sport


Tern For The Worst


Blanco Borrayo reports from Saint Joseph;

In recent days national coach Ernesto Farías had attempted to play down the importance of the Copa Rushmori group game against the Polar Islandstates, suggesting that the real focus for his transitional squad was the not-too-distant sixty ninth World Cup. Try as he might it just didn’t seem to take. Of course the sheer number of Cosairs fans in Alianza Albos may have played a part in that. The fellow Hispanic archipelago has long been a popular destination for Sargossans, thanks largely to its relative proximity, low costs and similar cultural background. So it was no real surprise that for this Copa the travelling support, the Blue Armada, were out in force. In fact nearly three thousand of them were present for just the final training session, at which point Farías gave up the pre-tense.

Because it is actually quite a big fixture. No one is pretending that the respective national teams have been on similar trajectories, the Terns were unquestionably favourites, but any chance to stick it to them t’up north was an occasion. Not that there’s been much sticking in recent years with the two most recent fixtures between the nations seeing the Corsairs beaten in the final of Copa Rushmori 15 and then dumped out of the sixty sixth World Cup by the pesky Polarians. But with the stakes in St Joseph not so high, as Electrum’s 1 – 0 win earlier in the day meant only a further four goal swing in favour of Electrum could prevent Sargossa advancing, perhaps the pendulum would drift back towards the south.

The National Colisseum is a name that conjures up images of gladiatorial combat from epochs gone by, which would seem appropriate as the Group C fixture kicked off with a flurry of challenges that could best be described as ‘full bloodied’. Although Saint Joseph, whoever he might have been, probably would not have approved. Only impressive leniency on behalf of the Astograthi referee prevented an armful of early bookings. In terms of play it was the Polarians who started the better with Victor Larsen in particular causing all kinds of problems. And it didn’t take too long for the healthy crowd of Twitchers to make their voices heard as the opening goal came with just nine minutes on the clock. It was the big beast Larsen who created it, towering above Matías Sosa to nod down a long pass from his captain squarely into the path of Jean-Eric Villeneuve. The experienced midfielder maestro slipped through the gap and calmly clipped the ball past Ezequiel Medrán.

Medrán was beaten again ten minutes later and once more it was Larsen who bullied the Sargossan defence, only to see his lopping header clip the post and bounce wide. Svenbjorn Einarsson too was a whisker away with a speculative effort from distance while Guillermo Lucena was forced into a last ditch challenge to deny Villeneuve a second as the Terns turned the screw. Although it wasn’t entirely one way traffic, with Saturnín Quinteros’ cheeky lob turned over by a furiously backpedalling Kirilaunen and Federico Ferreyra stinging the palms of the Polarian keeper from twenty yards.

Ernesto Farías has never been one to employ the hairdryer treatment but, with his charges lucky to just be a single goal down at the break, you can bet your last dinera that he’d made his unhappiness clear. Certainly the Corsairs looked sprightlier after the interval and claimed the first effort of the half as fallback José Toranzo tried an optimistic cross-shot. As the minutes ticked by the referee’s patience slowly eroded and cautions were dished out in quick succession to Fernández, Sosa and Cifuentés for the Corsairs and Polarians Einarsson and Vauxhall Jansen. But Sargossan frustration would turn to elation on sixty eight minutes as the relatively quiet Rodrigo Defederico finally slipped the shackles of Jens Niemanen long enough to collect a clever pass from Ramís. The Sargossan captain drove towards the edge of the box, feinted one way to wrong foot the covering Otkupshchikov before playing the ball across the area to the waiting Ferreyra. The Urbizania Wanderers striker was coolness personified as he slide the ball low into the bottom corner of Kirilaunen’s goal.

As the net bulged the substitutes and coaching staff erupted off the bench, all except the coach whose gesture was very clear, ‘stay calm and stay focused’. Neither of which happened. It was Vauxhall Jansen who would catch the Corsairs on the back foot, driving down the left and drilling a wicked low ball across the penalty area. Inside the box was a mass of bodies but it was an outstretched Polarian boot that took the ball beyond the reach of a despairing Ezequiel Medrán. The replay showed the touch had come from Svenbjorn Einarsson, sweet justice for the midfielder who had been sent off in the last meeting between the rivals. And inevitably another red card was forthcoming with Sosa shown a second yellow for a petulant shove on a celebrating Polarian.

That was the signal for the Corsairs to shut up shop. Reserve centreback Aurelio Pascual came off the bench to replace main creative influence Defederico with the side knowing now that even a defeat would see them through provided no more goals were leaked. Two navy blue banks of four were erected between the Terns and Medrán’s net as Sargossa saw the match out. The battle may have been lost but the nation was still very much in the war.

And that’s something only half of the field can claim as the group stage came to an end. With only sixteen nations left standing there are some cracking matchups to come as the knockout rounds kick off. The top half of the draw in particular is utterly ridiculous, with the winners of world championships, Cups of Harmony and regional titles a plenty in attendance. It’s a tough call to identify the real glamour tie of the round, with both Darmen v Mytannion and the Polarians against Saugeais capturing the imagination. Elsewhere new power Saintland take on old stagers Taeshan and our own Corsairs face the small matter of Eura in what is a nightmarish potential path to the final. The other half is a much more sedate affair and looks like being a straight fight between Pasarga, Valladares and Sicoutimont.

[Kernansquillec]

Kers sneak though thanks to goal difference

It was a very tight finish for Kernansquillec. A 2-1 defeat to group winners Pasarga meant coupled with Filopines' 1-0 win against Macquarrie meant that both they and Pasarga finished on 4 points each. Thankfully for the Kers their goal difference was breaking even, while Pasarga were at -1. It was a close call but by getting into the last 16 Kernansquillec have bettered their previous finish at the Copa Rushmori when they failed to get past the group stage 10 editions ago.

The mighty Valladares will be up next. They are so far undefeated, winning Group G by 2 clear points. The good news for Kernansquillec is that despite the unbeaten run, Valladares have an almost identical scoring record to the Kers, with 8 goals scored (2 more) and 6 goal conceded (same) over the 3 group games. It's still looking like a very tough game and there is no question that Valladares are the favorites, but there is still reason to hope for an upset.

In other news, the UICA have released their new ranking. The progress of Kernansquillecan football is once again there for all to see. The Kernansquillecan League System's ranking is up 15 places to 59th place. Guingamp remain Kernansquillec's number one club ranked as the 123rd best club in the UICA system. Rennes are by far the most improved, climbing just under 150 places. Their local rivals, Rennes du Nord are keeping up with them however; they are ranked 553rd after their début Globe Cup season. 6 Kernansquillecan sides are now ranked in the UICA club ranking. The KERFA have also announced a new ranking formula will be used for Season III of the League System. The domestic league system is also expected to start opening itself up to foreign players as the league looks to improve its image.

There is also a question over the future of the Green and White's kit. MytaStar Sportswear have provided the now famous kit for Kernansquillec since the side made their international début in the 42nd Baptism of Fire. However with the new K Kits' take on the famous shirts for the Copa Rushmori there is wide speculation over the future provider of the shirts. K Kits already provide kits to all professional sides in Kernansquillec and may be looking to expand operations world wide. The KERFA has not responded to any speculation on the subject by some in Kernansquillec are hoping that such changes to take place as it could give an added boost to Kernansquillec's industry. However, opponents fear for the traditional Green and White kit of Kernansquillec which has become synonymous with the Green Stallions.

[Darmen]

Darmen to face Mytannion in Round of Sixteen

Darmen defeated Alianza Albos, 3-0, and drew 1-1 with Isula ĝe Ru to secure qualification into the Round of Sixteen, where they will face none other than Mytannion.

Darmen's return to the 3-5-2 following Scott Rydzik and Nur al Din Lambert's suspension by Manager William von Kriesler for a dressing room scuffle, payed off immensel. Josimar Son, who took al Din Lambert's spot in the lineup, scored twice for the All Greens, as Tor Tong Lee and Gene Turko provided some stunning passes to setup Son's goals. Darmen controlled the ball quite well, having 58% possession when all was said and done, with the five midfielders playing a key part in that. Forward Bryan Faulkner added the third and final goal, which came off of a corner kick that was sent in by fellow striker Roberto Gregio.

With the return of Rydzik and al Din Lambert to the lineup for the match against Isula ĝe Ru, Darmen returned to a 3-1-4-2 formation and defensive football. Darmen claimed the early lead in the 8th minute, as Tor Tong Lee scored his first goal in this competition. But Darmen's defense has always been questionable, and Ala Samuél Ĝea was allowed to equalize in the 78th minute.

Despite the draw, Darmen's three matches in the Group Stage had gone well enough to advance them into the Round of Sixteen, where Group B winners Mytannion will meet them. Darmen and Mytannion met not long ago in the Group Stage of the 68th World Cup, where Darmen lost in an offensive exhibition that ended with a 5-3 scoreline. Darmen would go on to lose its two remaining matches in the World Cup, while Mytannion would advance too the Quarterfinals, where they lost to eventual runners up Free Republics, 4-5.

The Round of Sixteen match between the All Greens and the Mytannar's will be the fourth all-time. Prior to the meeting in the World Cup, Darmen won both matches, which took place in 15th Copa Rushmori.