Campionato Esportiva 11 - Roster/RP/Results Thread

[Yttribia]

Match-Day Five Cut-Off for the Nepharim Half

Group E
Nephara 1–0 Emigla-Romana
Chrovan 2–0 Gloriax
Jecatria 2–0 Nurovo

Pld                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Nephara                 5    5   0   0     6    0   +6    15
2 Chrovan                 5    4   0   1     8    2   +6    12
3 Jecatria                5    3   0   2     7    5   +2     9
4 Gloriax                 5    2   0   3     3    6   −3     6
5 Nurovo                  5    0   1   4     1    6   −5     1
6 Emigla-Romana           5    0   1   4     2    8   −6     1

Group F
Felix 1–1 Bongo Johnson
Gregoryisgodistan 0–1 Buyan
Brasiliana 0–1 Ruentenbach

Group F                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Ruentenbach                   5   3  2  0    6   3  +3   11
2 Buyan                         5   3  1  1    7   3  +4   10
3 Felix                         5   2  3  0    7   5  +2    9
4 Gregoryisgodistan             5   2  0  3    4   5  −1    6
5 Bongo Johnson                 5   1  2  2    4   5  −1    5
6 Brasiliana                    5   0  0  5    1   8  −7    0

Group G
The Sarian 1–0 Itanpavia
New Wolfopolis 1–2 The Royal Barangay
Paymina 0–1 Apox

Group G                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Apox                          5   4  0  1    5   2  +3   12
2 The Royal Barangay            5   2  2  1    6   4  +2    8
3 The Sarian                    5   2  2  1    6   5  +1    8
4 Itanpavia                     5   1  2  2    2   3  −1    5
5 Paymina                       5   1  2  2    4   6  −2    5
6 New Wolfopolis                5   0  2  3    2   5  −3    2

Group H
Kazamatsuri 3–0 Kitsunia-Deesse
Southern Sunrise Islands 1–1 Brenecia
Super Llamaland 0–2 Slembanana

Group H                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Kazamatsuri                   5   3  1  1   13   6  +7   10
2 Brenecia                      5   3  1  1    7   4  +3   10
3 Slembanana                    5   2  3  0    9   6  +3    9
4 Kitsunia-Deesse               5   2  1  2    7   6  +1    7
5 Southern Sunrise Islands      5   0  3  2    4   9  −5    3
6 Super Llamaland               5   0  1  4    1  10  −9    1

Congratulations to Nephara, Ruentenbach, Apox, and Kazamatsuri for qualifying directly to the Round of Sixteen. For the other eight teams, the round of twenty-four awaits.

These are the match-ups for the Round of 24 for the Nepharim half
Chrovan v. Felix
The Royal Barangay v. Slembanana
Buyan v. Jecatria
Brenecia v. The Sarian

Opponents for those who've qualified for the Round of Sixteen shall be announced after the Round of 24.

[San Jose Guayabal]

THE GUAYABALIAN

G$0.50

Guayabal reacted quickly to win a crazy match against Chiata

Not always have the opportunity to watch a game with lots of goals as we could now see, the finest football appeared in seven occasions where the frenzy of fans at every goal appreciated, SJG won the game for 4 -3 to Chiata, a game that shows that ofensiv national team is back, but also indicates that the defense is fragile, something appreciated by the 10,706 fans who viewed SJG game at Estadio Casa Naranja at Yttribia .

Both coaches did not reserve anything for the game, considering we enter the last part of the group stage, where nothing could be given up considering the situation of both squads. Visibly more offensive, SJG took the field with the players more adelanados usual, according to coach the mission was pressing and retrieve balls quickly to counter effectively.

Chiata for your calves would use a square alternative compared to the one used in its most recent participation in the WC Finals, even though the alternative, his team kept threatening because of its strange neutrality playtime, playing balls in toward the middle the court with certain absence as a recovery tactic to score from midfield. Being Leo Cruz in the main reference of such equipment in the attack, the defense of SJG would pay special attention to avoid surprises and with the speed of Cruz.

The game began Chiata took possession of the ball quickly and with some efficiency even though it did not seem to realize that if you look from a tactical perspective of the game, Sam Finch was responsible for giving quick and filtered passes through the middle of the SJG defense of Leo Cruz, three minutes into the match took speed boost by taking advantage of your stride and finished powerfully to the goal of Henry Hernandez, who was aware of the ball's trajectory.

Twelve minutes, Ian Adams took the ball for a corner, Adams placed the ball into the path of directaente Timoti HA Leilani, who managed to take advantage of his height and scored the first goal, fans erupted Chiata in joy and Cougars went ahead in the result, 0-1.

The reaction of SJG would not wait in terms plays pressure, Rodolfo Zelaya made ​​a solo run, he took a pass from the right ector of the box to Jonathan Fana, who tried to off the ball without stopping but failed in the attempt to make contact Erick Garyson took all but swept Sebastián Núñez to retrieve and made a low shot towards goal from Garr Bricker, who held his shot preventing SJG score.

Twenty-three minutes, Leo Cruz was fouled in the area by James Moreira who received a yellow card. Cruz took the law into their own and scored the 0-2 for Chiata, Henry Hernandez was not even close to reaching the ball while performing SJG fans whistling in disgust at the poor performance shown by the players on the pitch .

Chiata was superior in every aspect, SJG had just made ​​a shot on goal, while Chiata had made two, one goal and become the penalty that James brought in an unexpected way, the percentage also showed, SJG had only 35% Chiata possession while the remaining 65% had possession, based on a game of possession and short passes.

SJG showed signs of reaction because in thirty minutes, Sean Fraser took a play kickback to give a pass to the feet of Bregoo Leonidas, who finished from in front of the box and overcame resistance Bricker, SJG approached in the result with the 1-2 but that was not enough.

Chiata had another opportunity that should be seized as Leo Cruz scored his second touchdown of the night, this time piece. Henry Hernandez stood still unable to react to the shot of Cruz. Chiata stood at more advantage to halftime, leading the result with a convincing 1-3.

The referifinalizó the first part of the game and the fans who supported the national team expressed displeasure with the team's performance with insults and catcalls, a simple action and simply mediocre.

Mathias Paatelainen performed substitutions, James Moreira was replaced by Mathias Pasarelli while Alan Álej made ​​his debut with the national team, replacing Saucedo tree that undoubtedly was not on his best day. The positions of each player, as opposed to be more offensive than Saucedo remained in the same state.

Chiata made ​​a substitution as Leo Cruz had respiratory problems and was the replacement Clarance Martin, who would play the same role in the same place and the moves made ​​by Cruz, after that Chiata national team made ​​no changes to his tactical system .

The game began its second part, SJG controlled the ball on a semi aso rushed considering they had overcome a two-goal deficit coming from the end of the first half, Álej revolutionized midfield doing this had a more offensive role and could put more pressure on the defense of Chiata.

Fifty-six minutes, Rodolfo Zelaya make custom free kick, but decided on making a special play, the kind that are tested on the workouts. Zelaya gave pass to Bregoo, who gave a long pass to Sean Fraser for this to score from the left side of the box 2-3 for SJG, Fraser ran to take the ball and place it in the center of the pitch.

SJG was beginning to show signs of confidence in themselves, the slogan was an equalizer and then the victory, but that would be achieved on the basis of effort and constant pressure, which yield fruit at sixty-nine minutes. Rodolfo Zelaya took a ball that had been taken from Joseph Conn. Zelaya advanced to being able to shape and finish so the goal poente Bricker, beating him and setting equalizer for SJG. The game was 3-3 with only twenty minutes left to end the game.

SJG was pulling off the pressure imposed by Chiata, goals and plays that preceded helped possession or at least go up to 46%, while Chiata still superior, but much less than before with an acceptable and negligible 54% of possession, while SJG had five shots on goal and Chiata she was seven.

Chiata tried again to break the tie and secure all three points in their favor, Ian Adams crashed a shot off the post in the 82nd minute, Henry Hernandez custom prevent the goal to send the ball to the post. Matias Passarelli gave a pass to Jonathan Faña who atraesó much of the court to reach the area and ending his effort finished towards the goal of Bricker, Faña sent the ball into the goal, SJG earned thus the game with the 4-3 would be definitive that after leaving the national team to second place in the group.

The last game of the group stage would be against The Paradystopian Consanguinity, a team characterized by strong play and some rough times especially coming from Mr. Filthy, a player who should avoid contact at all costs because of their foul play, something that SJG seek to avoid is falling into provocations that player and thus have a good game.

[Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk gorod]

Ode to the storms

The great unknown,
that destroys everything in its path,
everyone fears
All the animals flee,
everyone hides.

Majestic in heaven
draw their lightning,
illuminating the dark night of the whole sky,
more peals of thunder,
all scared.

But truly heavenly music,
your water falling over,
destroys everything in its path,
crops, fields, and all that is,
you give free rein
and you hit us with all your soul.

We are full of water and care for us
our joy
cleaning our waste
and leaving the dirt dragging
all flooded, grabbing
and contamination.

As bad and cruel
but turn as sweet and effective,
you refresh our beautiful summer
you clean our city
we love you storms!

[Nephara]

MATCHDAY FIVE CUTOFF. It's squeaky bum time all around, lads.

GROUP A
Hicana 0–0 Jeckland
Sakhalin 0–1 Noburu Taiyou
Independent Grevacat 0–3 Yttribia

Pos                              P   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Yttribia                       5   4  1  0   11   4  +7    13
2 Jeckland                       5   2  1  2    4   5  −1    7
3 Sakhalin                       5   2  1  2    3   4  -1    7
4 Noburu Taiyou                  5   2  0  3    4   5  −1    6
5 Independent Grevacat           5   2  0  3    4   7  -3    6
6 Hicana                         5   1  1  3    4   5   0    4

GROUP B
Raussland 3–0 Nova Pruthenia
Kirigiri-no-Mikoto 0–0 Dandillis
United Alfheim 0–0 Paradystopia

Pos                              P   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Raussland                      5   4  0  1    8   3  +5   12
2 Paradystopia                   5   3  2  0    6   2  +4   11
3 Dandillis                      5   2  2  1    4   2  +2    8
4 Kirigiri-no-Mikoto             5   1  2  2    3   5  −2    5
5 Nova Pruthenia                 5   1  0  4    4   8  −4    3
6 United Alfheim                 5   0  2  3    3   8  −5    2

GROUP C
Lojal 4–0 Coconutstan
NAAZE 2–1 Boring Paradise
Carialus 0–2 Earo

Pos                              P   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Earo                           5   4  0  1   12   2 +10   12
2 Lojal                          5   4  0  1   10   3  +7   12
3 Boring Paradise                5   3  0  2   10   3  +5    9
4 NAAZE                          5   3  0  2    4   7  −3    9
5 Carialus                       5   1  0  4    3  10  −7    3
6 Coconutstan                    5   0  0  5    1  13 −12    0

GROUP D
Chiata 0–2 Star United States
Paradystopi Consanguinity 4–3 San Jose Guayabal
Rossana 0–1 Estope

Pos                              P   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Estope                         5   4  1  0   13   3 +10   13
2 Paradystopi Consanguinity      5   3  0  2   10   8  +2    9
3 San Jose Guayabal              5   2  2  1   11  10  +1    8
4 Rossana                        5   2  0  3    4   6  −2    6
5 Star United States             5   1  1  3    7  12  −5    4
6 Chiata                         5   1  0  4    6  12  −6    3

ROUND OF 24 FIXTURES
Jeckland vs. Dandillis
Sakhalin vs. Paradystopia
Lojal vs. San Jose Guayabal
Paradystopi Consanguinity vs. Boring Paradise

[Buyan]

QUALIFICATION ENSURED
But several key players missing for next round

CRISISBLESS – Once again, the Chessboard was filled for what would become a key game in our Campionato campaign. Manager Reinhard Shale was forced by the circumstances to bring on an unprecedented midfield as Sverre Devold complained about back issues during the warm-up. In order to avert any further implications for the remainder of the tournament, Piotr Kluszak would fill in for him. With the trio Lammerschon, Kluszak and Knutsen playing in front of Zermin, Buyan almost looked like a B-team against a Gregoryisgodistan where Laredo Potato so far had been in splendid form.

“I expect nothing less than three points.” Although his line-up did not really give it away, considering the inclusion of the more prudent Lammerschon in lieu of a more adventurous Sil Moen, Shale had declared before the first whistle that he’ld rather see an early opening goal than a struggle to keep the draw on the board. None of that could be seen when the Hedgehogs opened the game and it were the man in red and black – after another splendid rendition of their national anthem – who moved forward, much against the nature of the Foot Slaves. Warlord McBurgerKing chose for a lot of pressure on the heart of our defence, that hadn’t been flawless so far and it almost immediately paid off when Prune Farmer 913881 darted it in the lowest corner. Fortunately for us, Ulle Seber was lying there as well.

While our squad struggled to get a proper combination off the ground, Gregoryisgodistan continued with unseen vigour. It was clear that their manager had made clear that victory was the only option and Fred Tables could almost please his fans, if it weren’t for the crossbar. When a third opportunity of the Foot Slaves – a chip from Potato landing on the roof of the goal – in less than fifteen minutes reached his goal, even Ulle Seber had enough of it. Whether it had been the loud and wild yelling towards his defenders or the cussing Shale on the sideline, Buyan finally started to get into it at well.

The first chance was even through surprise starter Kluszak, who cleverly moved between the lines, picked up a pass from Justs and almost made his way past Button. The Coastal Soccer Club defender could not let this go unpunished and brought our proverbial number ten down. Despite some protest, the ref kept his cards in his front pocket – so far. The subsequent free kick from Kluszak was easily held by Prune Farmer 3818F, quite possibly the most promising element of this Gregoryisgodistani line-up.

With this, most of the story of the first half is told. For the neutral fans, it hadn’t been the most exciting forty-five minutes and on points, the advantage was for the opponents. But football goes by goals and that’s where Duco Dalmshelf came in the picture few minutes after the break. The Blau-Weiss striker had been as invisible as the yeti so far but if someone knows how to bring ‘The Duke’ in a lethal position, it is undoubtedly Kluszak. The combination started with Espen Knutsen – quite possibly one of the best for us – who raised the pressure on Executioner 98481 on the right side of the pitch. Knutsen passed back to Kluszak who lifted it over the defence in one time and out of nowhere, Dalmshelf emerged behind Godsam. With a marvellous volley, he surprised Prune Farmer 3818F, shaking off both the pressure for our squad and repairing his own fragile confidence.

“Of course I haven’t been insensitive for all the criticism so far,” Dalmshelf spoke afterwards, “I’m only human. But some was correct, other parts not. This hasn’t been my best tournament so far, but today it really clicked with Piotr.” For the followers of Lord Gregory, there was nothing left to lose and at once, an additional striker replaced Lordborn Godsam. Shale had a minor adaptation in store as well, Damien Balnerii appeared for the second time for the national team. The Foot Slaves shifted in a higher gear but lacked the cool to finish off at important moments. Possibe completely missed an easy shot on goal, a header from Guy Who Cleans Up found Seber on its way and even in front of an open target, Fred Tables managed to miss. The sign for McBurgerKing to fire on his guys some more.

The result? Six minutes before the final whistle, Pervert Chaser revenged a harsh but fair tackle by Zermin. At once the atmosphere exploded with rows, fights and cocky behaviour all over the pitch. When the dust had settled, two Gregoryisgodistani could hit the shower early on, but unfortunately were joined by Zermin and Tufte who picked up a second yellow card. “In all fairness,” Tufte spoke, “I did hit him but if that were the criteria for a card, we should’ve ended the game five against five.” Zermin on the other hand declared that he had done nothing. “Just the wrong guy at the wrong moment.” Either way, we will miss two experienced key players for a vital confrontation in the round of 24 – and with the injuries of Halmiini and Devold in mind, those might cost us.

Indeed, a next round as the Foot Slaves did not make use of the available space after the cards. Laredo Potato came close, but the captain was seen offside by the linesman. With this hard-fought score – a typical Buyanese one, in that sense Shale is picking up habits from Hope -, the Hedgehogs can prepare themselves for an encounter with Jecatria. A more favourable draw than the previously expected Chrovan as Felix failed to win against Bongo Johnson. Shale nonetheless warned for the opponent but refused to call in the absentees as an excuse. “Not the toughest of opponents in a way but they’ve proved their worth two years ago, when they even managed to send Apox home with red cheeks. They’re a side that can always shock us on any given day. Nonetheless, we’re favourite and should act as such. Whichever eleven are on the pitch, they should be able to bring us to the octofinals.”

Line-up against Jecatria

Ulle Seber (31 caps)
Giedius Justs (7 caps) * Rafal Giertych (12 caps) * Antanas Mamontovas (11 caps) * Kazimieras Zemaitis (76 caps)
Harald Naess (59 caps)
Espen Knutsen (11 caps) * Vridrich Lammerschon (2 caps)
Piotr Kluszak (14 caps)
Duco Dalmshelf (33 caps) * Andrey Rettinger (12 caps)

Bench: Schmidt (27), Saldlund (4), Dziuba (2), Ruutu (0), Smetona (14), Suhr (0), Rootare (0), Plovnarov (13), Moen (29), Havelund (44), Balnerii (0)

This side gets further and further away from the regular squad. Especially the trio that forms the core of defence, regularly Bartkus-Tufte, turned into a duo with a serious lack of experience. As a consequence, Harald Naess reappears in the team and that has been quite some time. In the eyes of Shale, he fell down to third spot in the order of defensive midfields, but with Zermin suspended, Frederik Suhr is a bit too young to carry a shaky midfield. Shaky indeed, as we will have to trust on the same trio that brought us passed Gregoryisgodistan, despite Plovnarov returning. Both Knutsen and Vridrich Lammerschon did quite well and Shale wants to reward their fragile yet effective collaboration with Kluszak. Piotr Kluszak will be the man with the pressure, especially as the injury from Devold is worse than expected. As much as Knutsen is a good player, it’s Kluszak who will be the creative heart of this squad. In attack, it’s fingers crossed for Dalmshelf, who hopefully found back his pace with that determining goal.

[Apox]

Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four

Artur Jaavinen was terrified. He'd driven the jeep around wildly for a number of hours, desperately trying to avoid any yellow spotted spasms that may be lumbering around, whilst also desperately trying to find the FOB and hoping that they were all alright there, and that they might be able to get him out of this hellhole.

Eventually however, he found the clearing. And, exactly what he found there didn't fill him with hope. The remains of both a number of military personnel, dead spasms and the camp were to be found, with shock blasts and burning tents all around. It looked, quite literally, like a warzone. It was also completely deserted, which didn't much help Artur from getting help in leaving the Commune. If he was to leave, it would have to be under his own steam.

Aware that the jeep would be key in returning to the safety of Apox, he wandered around the camp for a while, seeing if he could find any fuel, food or a map. He eventually found a couple of jerry cans which were both moderately full of petrol, as well as a couple of ration packs, and a map which looked outdated and half of which was charred from the fire it had half been in.

He pulled out the pistol he'd been supplied with when he arrived at the FOB, checked to make sure it was fully loaded, had a final check to make sure everything was inside the jeep, before turning the key. As the jeep roared into life, he heard a very distressing noise. It was the cry of one of the spasms, close, but still in the distance. With that, he engaged the gears and rolled out, due East by his compass. It was approximately 400 miles to the Apoxian border from here, and he was damn well going to keep driving until he got there.

OOC: Sorry for the short RP, inspiration is somewhat lacking.

[San Jose Guayabal]

OOC: Feeling in an poetical mood, context of the poem is based on SJG's independence day.

Oh precious freedom,
not compared to gold
or the greater good of the spacious earth!
Richer and more joyful
the precious treasure
the South Sea pearl between his closed
with guns, blood and war,
with the lives and reputations,
conquered the world;
sweet peace, deep love,
that evil and turn away your well call us,
in you alone is nested
gold, treasure, peace, well, glory and life.

When human
darkness saw the sky
Light, sweet my early days,
those three sisters
our human veil
knitting bear by way uncertain,
mine the harsh penalties
they changed the glory
freedom that I possess,
with always the same desire,
where you will see my happy story
who else reads it
Freedom is sweet della least.

I therefore, Mr. exempt
of this mountain and meadow,
glory joy and freedom that I have.
superb thought
has never shot down
the poor and humble life that I entertain;
when I come to blows
with the blind boy,
making embisto face,
I overcome, triumph and resist
arrow, bow, poison, fire,
and free will
schadenfreude weeping and singing mine.

When the aurora bathes
with cold dew
pearling celestial mount and meadow,
leave my cabin
banks of this river,
to give the new pasture my cattle;
and when the golden sun
shows its serious forces,
inclined to sleep chest
under a willow or pine
they hear the sound of birds gossips,
or already enjoying the aura
which restores the lost breath.

When the cold night
with your starry mantle
clear day in his darkness encloses
and sounds in the woods
the dark song
Nocturnal sons of earth,
at the foot of mountains aquesta
with rustic words
cattle of my story;
and a happy heart
Government of sheep and goats,
fearful account
King careful represents me.

Here green pear
with beautiful apple
of nuanced grapes and red blood
and colored wax
odorous pines
have, and endrin in purple color;
here the bower
vine to the elm links,
lame honeyed grapes;
I collect and quantity,
while the unlinked branches
the hot summer,
quinces that crown this river.

It gives me discontent
costly habit
that lecherous noble chest swells
is my sweet sustenance
generous field
these wild fruits spilling;
my gracious bed
of soft skins and sheets
that a king's envy;
and you, light source,
that the sand and throw simmering water,
these pure crystals,
poor, but very sure livelihoods.

Abide courtly
trying to taste
the soft bed and the best support;
kiss your hand ungrateful
unjust powerful
forming towers of hope to the wind;
live and die thirsty
by the honorable office,
I enjoy your soil
to air, sun and ice
my rustic busy year;
you better poverty
in peace than in war meager wealth.

Nor fear the mighty
not flatter the rich,
I'm not ruling chameleon;
I have not envious
ambition and desire
of alien eternal glory or fame.

Tasty and tender meat,
aromatised wine
white bread that day,
in grassland, cold source,
finds a weary pastor hunger;
the great and the small
we are equal what does the dream.

[Yttribia]

Round of Twenty-Four Cut-Off for the Nepharim Half

---

Round of Twenty-Four
Chrovan 1–0 Felix
The Royal Barangay 1–2 Slembanana
Buyan 1–0 Jecatria
Brenecia 0–1 The Sarian

Round of Sixteen Matchups
Nephara v. The Sarian
Ruentenbach v. Slembanana
Apox v. Chrovan
Kazamatsuri v. Buyan

[Nephara]

Ro24 CUTOFF. Who are the four weakest links? Who will be deemed worthy to join the group champions? Who will do a Brenecia and collapse at the last hurdle?

Jeckland 0–1 Dandillis
Sakhalin 0–1 Paradystopia
Lojal 1–1 San Jose Guayabal (2–1 AET)
Paradystopi Consanguinity 0–2 Boring Paradise

ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES
Yttribia vs. Boring Paradise
Raussland vs. Lojal
Earo vs. Paradystopia
Estope vs. Dandillis

[Buyan]

"What did you feel when you made that goal?"

If the press room would be the kind of place for semi-philosophical mind wandering, Damien Balnerii would have stared into the cold lights that surrounded the crowded area and pondered a few seconds before responding, quite possibly stroking his – unfortunately absent – beard before uttering a delicate yet complete response. But even if such a setting was not provided, considering the continuous shouting of journalists who wanted to jump the queue or simply attempted to avoid their feet being trampled by overtly enthusiast photographers, Damien knew very well that it was impossible to gather all the emotions that went through him at that ultimate moment into a response short enough to fit the evening journals. More probably, the shows would be filled with footage of him taking the field in the seventy-eight minute, replacing Andrey Rettinger who had done a tremendous job to wore out the opposing defence. With his second touch of the leather, Balnerii controlled a wild pass by Zemaitis. Only two subtle pinches off his left foot against the ball later, he had not only shook of his Jecatrian opponent but also formed a narrow corridor leading towards the goal. Damien hadn’t hesitated and long after he had ran to the fans, his arms lifted into the air, the nets were still trembling over the might of his shot.

“Joy.”

He delicately grinned, knowing that it wasn’t much of an answer. How could he explain the wave of satisfaction that had slammed through his body, the knowledge that after years of struggling, his name would finally be recognized? There, the high word was out, recognition. It’s vain, puritans say, to grade your self-worth by the praise by which your compatriots surround you. Even a bit lofty or blasphemous, depending on the source. But Damien didn’t even hesitate whether the feeling, so powerfully summarized in the three letters he had uttered, was caused by the knowledge of anticipated appreciation or by the regular – almost childish – sentiment triggered by scoring a goal. After years of struggle in the Earent competition, ironically one of the leading forces in the multiverse yet somehow hidden from the public eye in the far-off archipelago of Buyan, he had not just stepped into the footlight. He had burst out of the shadows, catapulted himself from the era of darkness into glory by nothing more than a well-timed flick of the leg. If Balnerii had been a poetic soul, he had probably mused upon the thin margin there had been between day and night, how one well-placed glove could have pushed him back to the purgatory – a place that often came bench-shaped in footballers’ lives.

“Will you start in the next game, against Kazamatsuri?”

If one would have asked said question a few minutes after the game, when the adrenaline was still racing through his veins, he would’ve roared – of course! – trying to hold his horses but knowing that these quadrupedal animals had been given free rein once the ball surpassed the invisible backline – in the sense that it is actually a plane, a wall of air between glory and hope – the yell would have come from deep inside. By now, with his hairs glistering from the warm showers and the only sweat remaining the side-effect of powerful spotlights, he honestly couldn’t care less. He wanted to bask in the soft-warm feeling this effort gave him and maybe he already realised in the back of his mind that the headliners shouldn’t read ‘Balnerii wants to start after winning goal’ but ‘Balnerii stars after winning goal’. Eight characters create a different world.

“We’ll see what the coach decides.”

Line-up against Kazamatsuri

Ulle Seber (32 caps)
Giedius Justs (8 caps) * Rafal Giertych (13 caps) * Sigurd Tufte (79 caps) * Kazimieras Zemaitis (77 caps)
Harald Naess (70 caps)
Espen Knutsen (12 caps) * Vridrich Lammerschon (3 caps)
Sverre Devold (84 caps)
Duco Dalmshelf (34 caps) * Andrey Rettinger (13 caps)

Bench: Schmidt (27), Saldlund (4), Dziuba (2), Mamontovas (11), Smetona (14), Suhr (0), Kluszak (15), Plovnarov (13), Moen (29), Hostmann (0), Balnerii (0)

Two returning players in the line-up: Sigurd Tufte returns from a day amongst the sinners, he returns to his regular spot, pushing Mamontovas back to the bench. ‘Mamo’ did properly but still ain’t a match for Tufte. On the pivotal role of number ten, Sverre Devold makes a comeback. It’s a bit early and it is unsure how well recovered he is from his back injury, but Kluszak hasn’t been convincing enough against Jecatria to warrant a third starting spot in a row. Lammerschon-Knutsen holds on in midfield, they once again did more than well. In attack, there’s still no place for Balnerii but Shale made clear that he will appear on the pitch. That doesn’t go for Havelund, he appears sick and has been replaced on the bench by Hostmann.

[Nephara]

THE BRINEMOUTH HERALD
MATCH PREVIEW: CORMORANTS vs. BUSTARDS
by Theodora Kenway

And so Nephara finds itself in an unusual position - poised to avenge our local rivals, Brenecia.

They were dispatched 1-0 in a surprisingly muted fixture against the Patriots - marked by good goalkeeping and solid defending from both sides, something of the old Brenecia showing up. But the Bustards were the better side, and they could make their advantage count. Brenecia's period of transition continues.

First, a recap of our flawless group stage in which we did not concede once.

Nephara 1 - 0 Nurovo
A lot of experimentation in the lineup, as the formation switches back to a 4-4-2 diamond. But the Cormorants, more used to attacking down the flanks recently, seemed unused to the formation - they seemed slightly awkward going forward, and it took until the 82nd minute for Rowland to rifle home from ten yards.

Nephara 2 - 0 Chrovan
Probably the toughest opponents in the group, and Mortlock brought close to her best to bear against them in a 4-4-2 formation. Cathar scored a crisp volley, and Keith Rowland headed home at the near post from a Kylie Penrith cross.

Nephara 1 - 0 Jecatria
Another weak opponent, but to their credit, they kept compact and parked the bus. It took until the 76th minute for the goal - Kite, who'd largely failed to make an impact herself, did give Rutger Locke a peach of an assist, and the midfielder did not hesitate.

Nephara 1 - 0 Gloriax
Yet again, Nephara showed up in a diamond, this time with Kylie Penrith taking up a position in it - and she had an excellent game, scoring the one goal. Gloriax kept solid and compact throughout - a good performance they should have saved for a more beatable opponent.

Nephara 1 - 0 Emigla-Romana
Emigla-Romana didn't manage a single shot on target. Cheney Bittencourt, in his first start so far, showed his class for the first goal, but missed a couple chances later on, looking visibly frustrated with himself.

So in summary - the defence is rock-solid, but Rook Cathar's scored just one from four... not awful on paper, but he'd expect better from such minnows. Still, if he doesn't work out, Cheney Bittencourt is more than capable of taking his place. On the brighter note, Kylie Penrith's been outstanding in all four games she's been present for, and while it's been a few years she's certainly still capable of starting in the centre of midfield, as she did for Raven River and now performed against Gloriax. And it might be too early to worry about the offensive side - our opponents were mostly happy to sit back and fight for a 0-0 draw, whereas we can trust the Sarian to come out and fight us for a win.

Also of note; though there was hardly any doubt of it happening, the home support was fantastic. The green and black bloc are not letting their players down.

Either way, the Bustards are known for their tactical flexibility, and there's really no assuming what they might come up with. But as far as their squad, they've tended to favour youth - 18-year old Garrard, for instance, has been preferred most matches to 33-year old Bernard at rightback. They didn't look terribly impressive in the group stage, and their defence looked shaky at points, but on the other hand they very capably held off Brenecia last match.

So the Cormorants go in clear favourites - as hosts, as the stronger side on paper, as the side with all the pedigree, and even better-rested. But the Bustards are hardly just a stepping stone - a good side, and one of the rising stars of Esportiva. Their moment will come, in time.

It just won't come this weekend.

[Yttribia]

Round of Sixteen Cut-Off for the Nepharim Half

---

Round of Sixteen
Nephara 1–1 The Sarian (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.) @ The Barbarossa
Ruentenbach 2–0 Slembanana @ Godswatch
Apox 0–0 Chrovan (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.) @ The Gauntlet
Kazamatsuri 3–3 Buyan (4–3 AET) @ Ludd's Hammer

Quarter-Final Match-Ups
Nephara v. Ruentebach @ The Gauntlet
Chrovan v. Kazamatsuri @ Farham

[German American States]

Muchas danke to Audio for the crest
The Rüntenbacher Fußball-Bund Roster & Information for CE11

"Die Adlerschaft, Die Maschine"

---

Roster
This year's team is formed of mostly seasoned veterans of the national team, and for most it will likely be their last World Cup campaign. Therefore, Manager Karl Rheinhart will be subbing in players on the bench for most of the qualifying stage, especially on the wings and back line, although he may replace the two veteran strikers occasionally.

Even with a relatively old roster, expect this team to have a potent attack. Watch out for all of the strikers, Hans Wippenbeck, Erik Rogalski, and Konrad Meisenhal. Every player on the front line can put together lethal runs and attacks, but also run back on defense with the rest of the team. The emotional heart of the team is Gunnar Baumgartner, considered by some to be the best Rüntenbacher to have ever played the game. In the back, watch out for Karl Strauber to muscle the ball off the attack(and perhaps get several bookings). In goal, Friedrich Rommelwald stands steadfast, blocking everything that comes his way. The team is very well rounded despite their attacking formation, and is a force to be reckoned with.

---

Formation: 3-1-2-1-3
"The Swoop, The Machine"
Rüntenbach pioneered this formation, now used across the world, most notably on the Guyabalan National Team. The formation is designed to give the best of offense and defense, stacking the box on the attack, and providing extra support to the back line. Because of the support needed on both sides of attack, extreme levels of fitness are needed, and players may need to be substituted off and on frequently.

---

Made by Adler Sport, Ruentenbach

The kits are a homage to Ruentenbacher football, with some modern tweaks. The home kits are easily recognizable, with the gold shirts and stripe, this edition partitioned into black and white, to reflect the new flag. The Away kits keep the tradition of featuring an eagle based design on the away kits, this time with a feather pattern. Both of these kits reflect the Ruentenbacher football culture of tradition, yet continuing innovation.

---

Stadiums

For important games

For less important games

For least important games

---

RP Stuff
Style: 2.35
RP Permissions: Do whatever, man. Basically, do anything you want except mortally injure, decapitate, or kill my players or characters, and we'll be all good. Entertain me.

[Nephara]

ROUND OF SIXTEEN CUTOFF.

Yttribia 3–2 Boring Paradise
Mosson Cliff, Gaillard

Estope 1–0 Dandillis
Die Einundsechzigste, Dahlen

Earo 0–0 Paradystopia (0–1 AET)
Estadi dels Nuvols, Gremalsco

Raussland 1–3 Lojal
Calcio Centro Serraville, Serraville

QUARTERFINALS
Yttribia vs. Estope
Paradystopia vs. Lojal

[Lojal]

It will take that extra attacker to beat the formidable defencive opponent that is a vase - can my style mod please be altered to +5

Lojal 3 - 1 Raussland

'28 Unknown (P) [RAU]
'41 Bonner [LJL]
'83 MacGhabhann [LJL]
'90 Jekyll [LJL]

Lojal struck twice in the last 10 minutes to see off Raussland and set up a quarter-final meeting with Paradystopia.

Raussland went ahead through a superbly struck penalty after Padrig Queen rashly fouled the Rauss number nine.

Lojal soon equalised when Vasco Bonner rounded the keeper after he was found by Raghnall MacGhabhann's clever pass.

With seven minutes to go MacGhabhann powered in a header and with Raussland pushing forward Yo'ash Jekyll broke clear for a solo effort in stoppage time.

Jekyll, who struggled in Lojal's previous games, looks to have finally found his rhythm, prompting and cajoling his teammates to victory.

An absorbing game offered two contrasting styles, with Raussland pursuing a patient passing game while Lojal adopted the more direct approach that lead them to victory in the Round of 24.

Raussland came close with a dipping free-kick, though the team was soon on defensive watch, relying on the number 5 to courageously block a Jekyll shot.

While the number 5 showed bravery, his defensive colleague relied on athleticism to head back to the goalkeeper to stop Jeykll's pass reaching Ó Meara.

The Ightoer striker finally escaped the attentions of the Raussland defence when he broke down the right and sent over an inviting cross that neither MacGhabhann or Bonner could reach.

The penalty briefly stopped Lojal in their tracks.

Queen was too eager to challenge the striker and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

Falk guessed correctly, but the shot - low and powerful - was unstoppable.

Five minutes before the interval Lojal equalised with an elegant goal as MacGabhann quick pass released Bonner.

Finishing has not been the New Oslo Town wingers strongest point in Lojal's group games, but Bonner's speed got him round the goalkeeper and his side footed finish eluded the defence as they tried to cover back.

Lojal's equaliser saw the game shift up a notch in intensity in the second half.

Just as MachGabbahan had released Bonner, Jekyll did the same for Ansgar Schult, whose lobbed effort drew a one-handed save from the Raussland keeper.

Just past the hour Bonner skipped his way past the defence, but he was unable to find a Lojal player with his powerful cross.

Lojal's invigorating start to the second half prompted the Raussland coach to make a double substitution, bringing on a winger and a striker.

With 12 minutes left Raussland's scorer ghosted past Nicholas Princip before firing a shot into the side netting.

But it was Lojal who found an extra gear in the last 10 minutes as first and MacGhabhann then Jekyll punished Raussland.

It was a deflected Jekyll free-kick that MacGhabhann headed in and assister turned goalscorer with a run and powerful shot that gave the keeper no chance.

[Nephara]

THE BRINEMOUTH HERALD
BUSTARDS BEATEN ON A KNIFE-EDGE - RUENTENBACH NEXT ON THE LINE
by Theodora Kenway

Credit is due to the Sarian - they came close, very close, to keeping the curse of odd-numbered Campionati going. It's fair to say they would've beaten most other teams with their performance. But in a very even match, it came down to penalties, the ultimate test of nerve, and the Cormorants pulled through.

It was a match where both sides lined up in 4-4-2 diamonds, attempting to match one another man-for-man across the field. Beyond a similarity in formation, however, both sides reverted to type - the Bustards typically sweeping forward in attack, the Cormorants physical and compact. But Nephara had the edge in personnel and the home crowd baying for blood in the stands - it seemed as though there was only one way this was going to go.

There wasn't.

The first sign of danger came with a dangerous Garrard cross that whipped behind the high defensive line. Fortunately, Coleman was aware enough to come out and clear it before it could reach Lee, and Yap was caught offside just three minutes later in a similar situation. But it was still signs of danger. Not that the Cormorants were exactly toothless - a pass from Locke put Rowland in position to do some damage, but Huddlestone did well to get down to it and parry it away.

It was, ultimately, the Bustards who got the first goal. Garrard's crosses had bred caution into the Nepharim defenders, and captain Hadrian Belfast was able to head his cross away, but Fletcher beat Mathias in the air to get onto the end of it. He cut away from the Brinemouth midfielder, and then managed to beat Brandon before scything through Belfast and Finnan with a killer pass. Lee got to the ball first, rounded Coleman (caught rather out in the open) and rolled the ball into an empty net from a tight angle. Finnan's attempt to salvage it was unsuccessful.

The Cormorants wasted no time in their attempts to get back into the game. Markus Rhein, in only his second start for the national team, linked up with Uli Alsatian on the right side of midfield in attack to expose the gaps in the Sarian's defence - Rhein's cross was a decent one, but just too high for Rowland to get significant contact on. Time went on, both sides getting chances, but you got the sense that an equaliser was coming - certainly the crowd thought so. And in the 32nd minute, it arrived at the right time. Rook Cathar, who'd had a quiet game and indeed a quiet tournament so far, suddenly came back to his best. Thundering towards a forward pass from Rowland, he effortlessly got past his marker before cutting the ball back and smashing it coolly past Huddlestone.

One-all, and despite more chances on both sides, neither broke the deadlock by half-time. Or, indeed, for the rest of full-time, as the match started to get scrappier and dirtier as time went by. But there was still time for a bit more magic from Rook Cathar, who had plenty of good signs to show Jess Mortlock that he was back firing on all cylinders. Twice he was denied by Huddlestone, once by the post, and once he managed to break through the Sarian line completely only to be betrayed by a poor finish. And the Bustards nearly snatched the game in the 89th, but substitute Turin Janssen was denied in spectacular fashion by Coleman.

So, then, to extra time - where both sides made changes that would prove crucial. Kylie Penrith came on for a weary Uli Alsatian - she'd proven a dynamic player in the right side of a diamond in the group stages. And the Sarian brought on Maitland Landon - Kokinos had been muted throughout, and the 20-year old Lavington midfielder was raring to go.

At first, it seemed as though the Cormorants' physical dominance was paying off - the Bustards looked weary and sluggish, and a fresh Kylie Penrith was constantly running at midfielders, dashing through and around them, a terror in possession. She fired just over from twenty yards as a sign of intent, and ultimately did supply an assist - another of her runs caught Reis flat-footed, and her pass gave Cathar all the room in the world to fire under Huddlestone for his second of the match.

For all the world it seemed like the Bustards had given up - dominated physically and, it seemed, mentally by their hosts. They passed through the first half of extra time flatly and weakly. Landon, it seems, did not subscribe to that viewpoint. Neither did the fresher Janssen, eager to atone for his failure to seal the match, and he gave Finnan considerable trouble in defence. They were fresh and, just as importantly, had the synergy from playing at the same club. Landon's pass to Janssen forced Finnan to clumsily foul the striker, lashing out with a boot - but Landon caught the rebound, and the referee called a good advantage as Landon played a neat one-two with Lee before smashing the ball into the top-left.

The Cormorants pressed desperately for a winner, nearly getting one from Locke (who fired very narrowly wide), and were nearly caught out again - a magnificently well-timed tackle from Belfast, the last man, kept Janssen from running free. But it wasn't to be - and so to penalties.

Nephara had been in five penalty shootouts to date, and their unfailing nerve and tendency to produce excellent goalkeepers lead them to win four of them (the defeat, a humiliating 3-0 shutout to Saintland in the Strongnesse Trophy, at least allowed them to lose the Trophy without losing their unbeaten home record that went on to stretch to ten years). But the Sarian was a young team - and youth don't tend to fear stepping up to the occasion under immense pressure, and a small but significant away presence was screaming them on. And they started well - captain Jarrett Firmin lead by example, slotting coolly beyond Coleman's reach with a finishing remarkable for a defender. Keith Rowland made no mistake with his own first penalty, firing perfectly into the top right corner. But it was in the second Sarian penalty that the Cormorants seemed to find an edge, as Lee's penalty (far too central) was smacked away by a hand from Coleman, swerving back at the last minute to get a hand to it. Locke, however, could do no better - his contact was poor, and the ball was lashed off the crossbar.

The third penalty-takers made no mistake - Fletcher was a touch fortunate Coleman went the wrong way, but Cathar's was clinical. Janssen was next, making no mistake under pressure - Michael Brandon was cool and composed as ever, but poor on technique, but Huddlestone was unlucky his palm was too weak to parry it away.

So then to the fifth - the pressure on. Gil Reis stepped up for the Sarian, and Coleman had evidently made up his mind early - only by leaping at the first opportunity did he reach almost as high as the top-left corner, and Reis' strike hit him firmly in the chest. So it fell to Kurt Mathias, crowd favourite, Felix expatriate and Brinemouth midfielder, for the final penalty. And with this, he made no mistake - Nephara were through.

And so on to the next round, where Nephara faces Ruentenbach - they topped the Group of Death in slightly less than convincing fashion, but perhaps it's forgivable in the circumstances, and they certainly made no mistake dispatching Slembanana 2-0. Their team, once again, relies on chemistry more than individual skill from their journeymen, but they have the technique to make it count on the pitch. Certainly not to be underestimated... but you'd have to assume the Cormorants hold the advantage here. Either way - one of the favourites is going to crash out, and the survivors will be resounding favourites to beat Chrovan or Kazamatsuri and reach the final in Yttribia. The nation believes in the Cormorants. And it's time for that faith to be repayed, the same way it always has been.

[Yttribia]

Quarter-Finals Cut-Off for the Nepharim Half

---

Quarter-Finals
Nephara 0–1 Ruetenbach
Chrovan 0–0 Kazamatsuri (2–1 AET)

Semi-Final
Ruetenbach v. Chrovan @ The Farham Arena, Sabrefell

[Nephara]

QF CUTOFF

Yttribia 4–4 Estope (4–4 AET) (4–3 pen.) - Villaneuva[i]
Paradystopia 2–3 Lojal - [i]Crossroads

SEMIFINAL
Yttribia vs. Lojal - Ximena

HOST ANNOUNCEMENT
"fuck"

[Yttribia]

Semi-Final Cut-Off for the Nepharim Half

---

Semi-Final @ The Farham Arena
Ruentenbach 1–0 Chrovan

Final - Le Nid Violet, Fontvieille, Yttribia
Winner of Yttribia/Lojal v. Ruetenbach

3PPO - The Farham Arena
Chrovan v. Loser of Yttribia/Lojal

[Yttribia]

Penalties. Just a game of luck, mother would say. Just a game of luck. But it appears to the entire nation that luck will change the fate of Yttribia's footballing history, like it or not. Never before has an entire nation stand up, hoping that their destiny is aligned with the stars. For one, the strength and dedication it took for the twenty-three men to get here was enough. The game only ends when referee blows the final whistle. That means that the game is never over, even when it seemingly is. La Villanueva was anxious in those final ten minutes. Stellar efforts from Bruno Arce, scoring in the fourteenth, and a rocket by di Mercurio in the fifty-first did give the nation hope to rely on, but granted...Estope had four goals. Two goals down, ten minutes left. This seemed far too depressing. There was no way in hell that the Ravens would disappoint their nation with a beating like this. However, Yttribia had an unofficial motto when it came to explaining the now ever-so-rare loss in football. By reason, or by force. The former was no longer an option with nine minutes left in regulation.

You could hear the entire stadium starting to chant four words. Save. Pass. Score. Repeat.

Save. Greater heroics had never been seen in the nation's young but surprising football history. Gaspard Irvin had the nine minutes of his life. The crazy 1-0-9 formation employed by head lunatic Bucky Freezus made those heroics far more impressive. Shot, after shot, after shot. And Gaspard Irvin somehow saved all of them. The once exiled Irvin, who had been criticized by the former regime for abandoning ship at the time his national team needed him most, was now welcomed back with open arms. No matter the result, Irvin was already the national hero Yttribia deserved. Manager Cardona was proud. His teammates were proud. His nation is proud. And Irvin had nothing to lose. But he'd rather keep on winning, as he'd say.

Pass. Sloppy, the damn team was for most of the match. Sure it didn't help with you had the young Josué Triggs play on the wing he was least comfortable with, replacing Dado Hale. It might have been a bit worse when Cardona called on Onésime Rios to sub for Michel di Mercurio, instead of the younger and more talented Ned Goode. One could say that these two were at fault for the mistakes made on the field. But they still had nine minutes to make up for the countless errors made on the pitch. Heroic actions performed by Rios, who still had it for the young age of thirty-two. Triggs wanted to show the world why he deserved to be considered as one of the rising stars of football. The funny thing is, that he wanted to show how strong the Yttribian bench-warmers were; the entire damn press knew that the starting eleven were strong enough. And Triggs made the most important pass of his career to the recent Parrhesia United signing, Raúl Monti.

Score. Monti had the biggest mountain to face. He had to score a goal, and have one of his teammates (or himself, if he really digged becoming the star of the team) score as well. However, he couldn't care less about becoming a hero. He just had to accomplish the job he had to do. And he had the striking opportunity to do so. In which he did. Marvelous. Stunning. Beautiful. The collective flash from the cameras in attendance was just enough spotlight for Monti. The score was now 3-4, with Yttribia needing one more goal to tie up this match, and the possibility of a semi-final appearance in the Campionato Esportiva.

Repeat.

---

"With recently elected Prime Minister Giorgio Marchegiano on his feet, the whole of Yttribia is now on their feet, ourselves included. Penalties converted by Arce, Burns, Langlois, with a miss by Abreu just recently in penalties. Estope had Stark, Barria, and Sanford convert their penalties, however misses by Lawrence and Garity may shut down the dreams of this team. And who else but el Capitan, Xavi Vilhjalmsson to take the deciding shot? The paces have been made, the deep breath has been taken, the only thing heard across the entire nation is the heartbeat. With two marvelous goals by Monti and Abbatantuono to save our dreams, Vilhjalmsson can make them become a reality. Here it comes..."

Absolute silence struck the stadium. Never before has the nation seen a shot taken with such audacity, in such a tense situation. The speeding ball had no chance of being stopped by Ashton Pate. All Vilhjalmsson had to do was wait the longest two seconds of his life. Nothing but net.

"FUEGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL! That's it! We've done it! Yttribia is moving on to the semi-finals of the Campionato Esportiva, and in dramatic fashion! My goodness, this is a story for the ages. The question 'Where were you on September 21, 2215 at 00:36 Obersinn-Fresnosa Time?' will be asked for years and years to come!"

[Nephara]

CUTOFF

SEMIFINAL
Yttribia 1 - 0 Lojal - Ximena

Thus it is the cohosts Yttribia who go on to contest the Final at Le Nid Violet, while heroic teapot-killers Lojal will catch the next flight to Sabrefell en route to the next flight home, to fight over third place.

[Ruentenbach]

Friedrich Rommelwald was not usually one to be a polarizing figure.

Everyone on the team liked him equally, he was one of the best players on the team. Many supporters credited him with being the brick wall that kept the team in some of the biggest matches in national history. Rommelwald was a welcome change to the shoddy Ruentenbacher goalkeeping of the past several decades. Some regarded him as the best in Esportiva, after being sought after by multiple international clubs during the domestic transfer window.

Furthermore, Rommelwald appeared to be a Ruentenbacher through and through. He came up to the first team after the traitorous actions of now Buyanese keeper Manuel Schmidt. He pledged himself to fervent support of his country after his teammate turned his back on the black, white, and gold. He would start a team tradition of singing the national anthem as loud as they could before the matches, as well as getting a tattoo of the flag on his right arm soon after being called up to the starting lineup.

These two factors made the President of Discipline of the RFB, Steffen Schiffhauer, want to rip out his hair as he sat at his desk with an order from the Ruentenbacher government. It was straight from the top. Schiffhauer looked again at the signature of the president. He looked as close as possible, seeing that it indeed looked like the legitimate signature of Kurt Nachreich.

Suspend the entire national team. That was the only option on the table. Schiffhauer was still trying to wrap his head around the letter. Apparently several of the players on the team, most notably Rommelwald, had donated money to the Corvax and Corvidae Parties of Yttribia and The Inevitable Syndicate. It just didn't fit. But there Schiffhauer was, looking at the bank records. 100,000 RM transferred from Rommelwald's account to the Chief of Fundraising of the Corvax Party.

Something just didn't fit, and Schiffhauer knew it. There was something afoot.

Schiffhauer reached for the keyboard of his office computer and began typing an email to head coach Karl Rheinhart. They should play in the tournament even though they were suspended, to relieve the country reeling in the wake of their first invasion, to give them something to take their minds off of the work that needed to be done along the western coast. To represent the country and show the true Ruentenbacher spirit of being resourceful and rebounding from the worst situations.

That was a year ago now. Karl Rheinhart stood in the locker room in the belly of the Le Nid Violet, recounting this story to the team. Die Maschine had lived up to their name, powering through group play against Buyan and Felix, the two biggest rivals for Ruentenbach. They had navigated through a nailbiting knockout stage, and now sat here, before the finals. Although all of the matches were blacked out in Ruentenbach and the team was said not to exist anymore, they were indeed representing Ruentenbach. They would show the world what Ruentenbach was made of.

Rheinhart certainly had a way with words.

[Nephara]

THIRD PLACE PLAYOFF

Chrovan 3–2 Lojal

And so the eleven nameless, eyeless, unrostered puppets take the bronze medal, while Lojal players collapse on the field and football dies quietly.

[Yttribia]

Never before have 81,800 people been in awe, hopeful for what could be a victory on home soil. The tension inside the stadium was unbearable, as clouds began to roll into Fontvieille, with Le Nid Violet's roof open for the first time in a long, long time. The stadium and its bright lights blacked out as the tarp-covered pitch shined one number. Forty-eight, the number of participants in this edition of the Campionato Esportiva. The countdown began from forty-eight, with each team's highlights being represented on the tarp, according to their total position in the competition, beginning with the lone highlight of the Coconutstan team, a goal against Boring Paradise. The countdown eventually reached two, displaying both finalists to take the pitch later tonight. One. An aerial view of the stadium was displayed on the tarp, symbolizing a huge "thank you" from the local organizing committee to the fans for making this Campionato Esportiva one that won't be forgotten for a long time. Zero. A large firework show went off as the lights in Le Nid Violet returned, signaling the start of the closing ceremony for the Campionato Esportiva.

Forty-eight Yttribian and Nepharim children, twenty-four from each nation, all rushed to center field and formed the spiral logo of this edition, showing the friendship of the two nations after a dark period in the history of their relations. Each of these children carried a football, and began an intricate display of their footballing skills to show the entire world what these two nations had to offer, when it came to youth talent. While there had been a plan to follow a specific routine for this part, many of the children decided to wing it and show off all of the trick maneuvers they had taught themselves. At the end of the routine, the children dribbled their balls to the edge of the tarp, and kicked the balls with great force into the crowd, allowing the lucky fans to take home a neat souvenir, as well as inspiring a generation of youth footballers to take that one more step.

After the jubilation inside the stadium from the previous segment had calmed down, the mood turned solemn, as the lights inside the stadium dimmed, with heavy focus in where the centre of the pitch is located. The public address announcer's voice came on, as he spoke to those in the stadium, and those watching around the entire region. He spoke into the microphone with clarity, and his deep, baritone voice spoke to those present.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we ask that you please observe a moment of silence to those who've been oppressed, or have fallen, throughout the regime." The calm breeze brushed the faces of those in attendance, as the moment of silence continued on. "Thank you. In times like those, there were some who spoke out publicly over the oppressive regime, leading to some renouncing their Yttribian citizenship. It is time to thank three specific people who spoke out publicly, and go beyond the line of duty, when many of us had no courage to do so." Everyone in attendance applauded the gesture done by the Government, shining the light on their nation's grave error." With a deep breath, the public address announcer began to read off the five names of the Critics.

"Nelson Corrado." The leader of the Resistance, he was in charge of organizing the fall of the Corvax regime, from gaining support to plotting the assassination of Brent Stephenson. He waved to those in attendance before stepping out of the stoplight. "Danielle Vaal." She was the one who rolled the snowball down the hill. It had become no secret that she was the 'intern' who killed Brent Stephenson, and for that, everyone was thankful for her grand contribution to the fall of the regime. She then stepped out of the spotlight, and into the dark, as she waited "Gustave Mynatt." The first person to publicly oppose the Corvax regime just two years ago, Mynatt renounced his citizenship and took refuge in the Equestrian States, where he eventually obtained citizenship. The thunderous applause from the stadium was loud enough to be heard kilometers away. The chants of "Thank you, Gustave" were made loud and proud. The public address announcer once again spoke into the microphone. "Now, please welcome Prime Minister Giorgio Marchegiano."

A short, old man of around 1.5 meters made his way to the centre, utilising a walking stick to make his way to the centre. As he hobbled his way to the centre, Mynatt began crying tears of joy. With a microphone in his hand, and a notecard in the other, Marchegiano made it to centre stage and asked Gustave Mynatt the following questions.

"Do you, Gustave André Mynatt, pledge on your honour to uphold the objects of the Yttribian Basic Code?"

"I do."

"Do you pledge to contribute positively for the greater good of the nation, building and protecting the community you live in?"

"I do."

"Do you plan to serve this nation and adhere to the Basic Code?"

"I do."

"And will you plan to combat all forces which tend to undermine these institutions?"

"I do."

"Congratulations."

Marchegiano shook Gustave's hand, and handed him a brand new Yttribian passport. Gustave had reacquired his Yttribian citizenship. The entire crowd broke out into cheer, with mixed chants of "Thank you Gustave," and "Thank you Gigi" taking the stadium by storm. Yttribia had been hyped up by the recent events. For it was now time to convert that hype into momentum for the most important game in the history of Yttribian football.

[Nephara]

FINAL

Two teams strode into Le Nid Violet.

The hosts, Yttribia, resplendent in purple and buoyed by their powerful opening ceremony. The people were behind them, baying for Ruentenbacher blood. Nothing short of victory would satisfy them.
The challengers, Ruentenbach, determined to play the spoiler of something looking all too much like a fairytale. They might not have had the mandate of the government, but goddamn it, this is what their people deserved.

Two teams entered. But there could only be one winner.

Yttribia 3–4 Ruentenbach