AOCAF LII/52 (Concluded; Atlantian Oceania Only)

[Chromatika]

By: Jordan Lawless, Chief Correspondent, Previous Sports Corresponsdent, Chromatik City Courier

On the Previous Match...

It was a win, but a rather worrying one, for the Chromatik squad over Anthor, a 1-0 affair that seemed headed into extra time before late heroics from none other than one Kéìrâ Andísorí. Pundits across Chromatika had believed that after their run to the Semifinals of the World Cup proper, taking care of a team such as Anthor would be a simple enough affair.

Apparently, Anthor didn't get the memo.

Time and time again, the Chromatik attack probed at their defenses, and time and time again, they were held in check. A modified 4-4-2, Adrien Darby's Warriors - specifically Kimball at goal, assisted by Holloway, Paget, Rier, Stacks, and Bisette - stymied an astonishing fifteen shots, eight of which were on goal. Time of possession was obscenely in the Chromatik favor, and Thorben didn't have much to do - only one shot on goal easily saved, along with three paltry corners from Anthor.

Even after the usual substitutions - Sybill for Kelly around the sixtieth, Niro spelling Rien around the seventieth, and Dragana replacing Morningstar - the game seemed like it would held to uncharted territory, extra time, where the craziest of results can occur. Thankfully for Chromatiks, however, Andìsorì got the last laugh.

The now superstar of the squad, and newly signed Starling player took a routine touch from Kelly and started driving at the net, leaving Paget and Rier in her wake while reaching a speed that only she is able to reach at such a short notice. Facing Kimball one-on-one, she feigned left, drove right, and kicked the ball straight down the middle. Kimball fell at the bait, and the Chromatiks did just enough to advance.

Surprisingly, they weren't the only ones to pull off the upset based on seeding, as Eshan took care of Valanora, of all teams, in extra time, and Krytenia took care of pesky Tropicorp.

It will mark the first time the Chromatiks make it to the Quarterfinals of this competition, where their opponent will be...

On the Next Match...

The Osarius Firebirds. A team with rich AOCAF history, having won the tournament three times in the past. Reeling a bit after sub par performance in the last World Cup Qualifying, looking to remind everyone that they haven't fallen to the level of the also-runs. Chromatiks know of the fire of Osarians - Estevez, Pellegrini, and the like having played in the previous iteration of the League Chromatiks - and taking on the Firebirds will be a challenge for certain. They dispatched Oontaz with ease in the Round of Sixteen after topping their group with two wins and a draw, and the draw being at the hands of the immortal Starblaydis.

An interesting aspect of the match is that it will be played at 9 AM, an obscenely early time for a match. It will be the earliest time most Chromatik players have ever played football, and will take some adjustments to get used to. Although the health of Samantha Pearce, the Firebirds' captain, is in question, Amos isn't counting her out: "They are all fighters, and we will look to face the best side that they can put together, not just a side that we wish we will be facing."

To follow up a Semifinal appearance at the World Cup with another at the AOCAF would cement the Chromatiks as a rising power in the footballing universe and not just a squad that had a Cinderella run. The team knows this all too well. "We believe we've arrived at the apex of things," admitted the normally soft-spoken Trenn Rien, "But in order to show our beliefe, we have to actually prove it. This match will give us that golden opportunity to show that we belong in the spotlight. We plan on going out there and getting it."

Exclusive Interview with Kéìrâ Andísorí:

Lawless: Welcome back to one of my interviews, Kéìrâ. The last time we talked was during a Di Bradini Cup, before you headed off to Ethane. Now, you're perhaps the greatest superstar in the nation, and you just went through a hectic free agency to arrive at a decision to go to Starling, in Nephara. Instead of me doing the asking, I thought I'd ask you the top ten questions we've been getting from our readers to ask to you, if that's all right.

Andísorí: It's good to see you again, Jordan. Apologies for being unavailable earlier. Sure, I'd be willing to answer questions from the fans, especially those from home.

Lawless: David from Chromatik City asks: "Why did you choose to leave Ethane behind and test out the foreign market? Was Letson Town not what you were looking for?"

Andísorí: That is a legitimate question. I love Ethane and Letson Town, and will always be grateful to both for giving me a chance to play the game that I love. It is true that at Letson Town, I wasn't able to put up the numbers or the results that I wanted to. However, they gave me a chance to better myself, a chance to test myself, a chance to challenge myself. Those around me and I began to notice the results I was putting up in international matches, and it was actually Manager Amos who contacted Letson Town's Manager and asked if he'd be okay with letting me go. In order to get even better, I need to go somewhere where there are better players and a better structure. As it's been proven time and time again, one player can't win the league; I was, I suppose, being capped of the impact that I could have during my stay in Ethane. So, I took the advice and decided to test it out."

Lawless: Pietr from Eyrods has a follow-up question: "What was it like to get offers from so many clubs? How did you arrive at your decision?"

Andísorí: It was a bit surreal, and a dream come true. To have teams from Ceni, Québec, Port Christopher, Turori, and Nephara, to name a few, interested in me? Bizarre. I didn't know how much the world was following Chromatik football. I suppose our last World Cup helped matters a bit, but to see the consequences of that firsthand was humbling and exciting. To decide where I should go, I looked at the prestige of the club, the prestige of the league, and the prestige of the nation. I wanted to go somewhere where I would be tested, challenged, and driven to more excellence. That is my ultimate goal - to become the best version of myself possible, both on and off the field. I tried to pick where I thought would give me the best opportunity to do that.

Lawless: Kevin from Felswyr has the question to ask after that: "Why Nephara? Why Starling?"

Andísorí: There's about twenty or so reasons why I chose Starling and Nephara. But the ones that are most important? The Nepharim League is one of the best in the world, and Starling is a major contender in that league since their emergence a few seasons back. They want me to play a pivotal role in the seasons to come. Gabriella has told me of the experience of playing in the league, and although I think playing for a team like Starling would be different than the one in Coret, she had a lot of positive things to say. Also, the town is just now getting involved with their team following recent results, and I relish the challenge of writing a chapter in that. It should be a fantastic opportunity and I am beyond excited about it.

Lawless: Margaret from Urrheddiao has a question: "Did the rumors of the possibility of you having a younger sister have any affect on your decision?"

Andísorí: I'd be lying if I didn't admit to the possibility of meeting her in the near future. She's doing pretty well in Rozelle, in Brenecia. Now that the Chromatik Party's reign is over, it should be easy to get in touch with her and see if she'd up for meeting up. I have no memory of having a younger sister, as I was taken by the government when I was very young, but if there is an actual chance that she is my younger sister? That's a chance that I have to take.

Lawless: Monette from Eyrods has this question: "There are rumors that you are involved a lot with the Rainbow Revolution. Do you plan on having a say in the election cycle and the formation of the new government to come?"

Andísorí: I hope the readers understand I don't have the liberty to answer that question liberally. What I can tell you is that I will have a say in the new government that is to be established. My input is being valued, and I am in a position to make a difference out there. I can't discuss the details right now, but understand that I am not taking this responsibility lightly and I will do my best to help create a government that is the best for Chromatika.

Lawless: Moving on to Oscar from Z'ai'ai: "Are the rumors of you being bisexual true? Are in in a relationship with anyone right now?"

Andísorí: Damn, how do these rumors get out so damn fast? Actually, I'm not sure if I'm bi. I might just be lesbian. I mean, I've never liked a guy before in the past, so... And yeah, I'm seeing someone. Damn, she told me along time ago that she's willing to be public about it when I am... I guess this is a good time as any, with the Revolution over and all, eh? Alyss (Montague) and I... We've been seeing each other for a while now... Ever since the last AOCAF. And before you ask, yes, that helped me make the decision to come to Nephara, too... We'll be somewhat close, and that means a lot to me.

Lawless: Wow. Well, that should spice up the next question that is from Marcus in Chromatik City: "How excited are you to face Gabriella twice a year? Have you made a bet yet?"

Andísorí (Laughing) Oh, Gabriella and I love competing. We would always make bets on who could score the most goals on Nikolai and Jillian in practice with the loser having to buy dinner and whatnot. In fact, one hour after I agreed with Starling's deal, Gabe called me (yeah, that's her nickname, don't ask why) and said that whomever scores less in our series next season has to buy the winner a nice steak dinner. I plan on getting that dinner. I like how she made it on scoring and not whomever wins, because whether we win or lose is up to the team, not just ourselves. Alyss and I haven't made any deal like that, though. She just said that that would be twice a year that she'll do her best to trip me up and bang me around. (laughs again)

Lawless: Now that will be something that Chromatik fans will be watching for. Lauren from Pùr asks, "What is your opinion on the new Chromatik League? Do you have any plans of playing in it in the future?"

Andísorí: I was heartbroken like a lot of you when the Chromatik Party shut down the League Chromatiks. I am very glad it will be starting back up soon, and it will start being open to all players, even those who didn't have a chance to play in the past. I think it is actually best for the league if it doesn't have us national team players in it for a while. It needs time to foster its own talent and be used to heal some of the wounds that have been upon the country by the Color Code System. Perhaps in five years or so we can start having national team players that play in the league. I think that it's best if we don't have any foreigners either. Sure, it will be a little less exciting to watch, perhaps, but it is my opinion that in order to get people interested in domestic football, we need to let domestic players play. Let the fans choose their teams, and let them start to cheer for them. As for the format, I'm not sure if it's best to have a hard reset after the initial double round robin, but I trust that the League will fix itself as the seasons go on. I'll be keeping an eye on it for certain during my spare time in Coret.

Lawless: Nicole from Myana would like to know: "What are your goals for the immediate future?"

Andísorí: Well, in the club level, I'd like to help Starling remain competent in the Nepharim Premier League, and partake in international club competition. In the national level, I'd like to continue to help Chromatika grow as a nation into a perennial power, a threat to win the World Cup. I want us to get past the Cinderella status to a contender status, and if everything works out, win the World Cup someday. Personally, I want to continue to become a better teammate, a better person, and a better player. I want to be happy and be content with my lot in life. These are some of the things I would love to do.

Lawless: And last but not least, Adam from Alnio has this question: "Do you still have Butler with you? Will he be with you in Starling?"

Andísorí: Of course I do! It was an actual clause in my contract with Starling! Butler is my companion and a project that I am constantly improving on. He's a bit silly at times but I adore him. He'll be with me wherever I go, and if he's not allowed then I simply won't be there. (laughs nervously)

Lawless: Well, thanks for the interview, Kéìrâ. Any last words to the readers out there?

Andísorí: Thanks for your support, for getting out of your way to support us even after we were exiled, even after you couldn't check scores without using illegal sites to log into some other country's internet. We of the Chromatik National Team and I will continue to try our best to represent you in the best light possible. This, we promise. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and long live Chromatika.

Lawless: Thank you again. It has been Jordan Lawless, from The Rebel.

---

Mascot's Corner

In the Final Four running to be the new Mascot for Chromatika:

1. Chromatika Cosmos
2. Chromatika Chronomancers
3. Chromatika Anomalies
4. Chromatika Capitalizt

[Audioslavia]

Auld Enemies

Audioslavia vs Krytenia is the quintessential derby

There are a handful of nations that Audioslavians consider the national team's derby rivals. We get an almost irrational urge to shatter the teeth of the bright hollywood smile of Starblaydia, with the team's impossibly gorgeous and talented players and array of shimmering silverware. Matchups with Valanora get our hackles up, with folk memories of brutal and humiliating thrashings souring both sides of the rivalry. The good ship Audioslavia has wrecked against the shores of neighbouring Legalese and Osarius many times before, while with New Montreal States we share a historical footballing rivalry and three or four former managers. Mertagne and Karditan are, or were, the younger siblings, to be kept arms length via a hand on the forehead, while Lemmitania were the patriarch, against whom we've fought most of our losing battles, if only by proxy.

Krytenia though, are different. They're neither brothers nor fathers nor sons or daughters. They neither sparkle like Starblaydis nor terrorize like the marauders. They aren't annoying like TnUI, they aren't embarassing like Squornshelous. They, put simply, are. They are the them. We despite them because they're Krytenians. They're Krytenians because we despise them. We are white, they are black. We are night, they are day. We are ying, they are gits.

Like Starblaydia (p7 w4) and Valanora (p9 w5), Audioslavia have a +.500 record against Krytenia. In seven games, we've won four and outscored our opponents by sixteen to fourteen. The matches barely need to be recounted, such is the reverence with which we hold the victories and contempt the defeats.

1-0 in the second round of World Cup 27 - Jerome Jaffacake-Phillips' irony-laden final minute own goal.
3-2 in the semis of World Cup 29 - a petrified Krytenia failing to beat an ordinary Audioslavia side when it mattered most.
1-3 in the qualifiers for World Cup 64 - Krytenia the first team to defeat the newly-crowned World Champions of cycle 63
2-0 in the return leg - the balance redressed for now.
4-3 in the first round of World Cup 73 - Jaffacake at the helm for Audioslavia, Niblick managing Krytenia, a matchup to end all matchups for two famous rivals.
2-3 in the quarter-finals of AOCAF 50 and a penalty shoot out loss in the same round of AOCAF 51 - recent defeats that almost accounted for the career of then-manager Guillermo Sanchez-Dysos who, as if it wasn't bad enough that he lost to Krytenia twice, was also half-Krytenian himself.

This, then, is the third time in succession that Audioslavia have faced the Insipid Cyan in the quarter-finals of the world's premier regional tournament. Frantzko Intxausti, undefeated so far and without having even conceded a goal in his tenure, has the biggest test of his managerial career, ahead of even his having taken charge of AC Izotz Zubia for the Champions Cup final. This, for him, in the eyes of the fans, is it. Lose this, and lose credibility. Win, and anything could be possible.

One thing is for sure, though: Vilitan-born Audioslavia striker Kryhata Calanndi absolutely has to play. His entire existence was for this very game.

Audioslavia are expected to put out their strongest lineup, the same as their nail-biting extra-time victory over Cosumar. Ozuna will start in goal - the super-keeper had a wonderful World Cup and has yet to conceded a goal this tournament. Dallara will lead the line in the centre of defence alongside Gael Marquez, with Seghers and Aretxaga at full-back. Zufiria, Giuffrida, Besoitagoena, Mariezkurrena and Guerricachevarria are as much of a handful in midfield as they are a mouthful to say, while Roddy Fraser will start up front. Calanndi, despite the fact that he was born for this sodding moment will likely have to wait his turn from the bench. Intxausti, a 100-cap centre-back for Audioslavia, is unlikely to sway from his defensive instincts and start with two strikers.

[Vilita and Turori]

Rivalries Flaring Up at the Back of the Bus...

In what would go down as yet another fine chapter in the long storied history between Vilita and Starblaydia, the Vilita & Turori Eel Cat Things under the guidance of Kristoffer Kilpter were able to outlast the purple peril and advance to the Quarter Finals with a 3-1 extra time victory over their longest-standing regional foe - the first meeting between the two sides coming way back during World Cup 15.

Another famous foe did not fare so well in the Round of 16, however, as top-seeded Valanora were stunningly dumped out of the competition by the hand of Eshan - a controversial ending to a controversial match that will be replayed for years to come in regional competition highlights. The Eshani will feel they deserve the victory by putting themselves into position to score and they ended up advancing but the task won't get any easier for them as they square off against the in-form Eel-Cat Things at the Cascade Dome.

Elsewhere along the 95X...

Vilitan Neighbors and Quasi-Governmental entity Tropicorp's run in AOCAF 52 ended with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of AOCAF founders Krytenia in the evening matchup at the Oceanside Stadium. Perhaps playing as the favorites is not to the strength of the Scientists, Engineers and other Researchers over at the 'corp as they came in with the 6 seed in the playoffs and were promptly bounced out by the 11th ranked cyan terror.

52 editions on, and Krytenia are still searching for that elusive first Atlantian Oceania regional title. It doesn't look like its going to happen this time around, either, as Audioslavia have been on a minor tear as of late - including a 7-0 thrashing of The Redvale to open the tournament.

The odds for the Krytenian's get even longer at the Lucky Businessperson Stadium, however, considering the secret weapon on the bench for the Bulls: Kryhata Calanndi. The Vilita & Turori based player who plays domestically for Cednia Beach AFC scored on their international debut and looks set to play some part in the upcoming Quarter Final fixture against Audioslavia's longtime rivals - and perhaps the only team in the multiverse that is better at losing important games than the former 'Slaves.

Supposedly Calanndi's entire purpose in life is to shine in these very matchups when Audioslavia take on Krytenia. We will soon find out how the 20 year old striker can live up to life's great expectations.

the morning match at the Lucky Businessperson stadium is a champ and challenger style battle between multi-time AOCAF champion Osarius and the up-and-coming nameless field-stepper-onners of Chromatika who are looking to feed off the energy of a deep run at the World Cup finals to claim their first major silverware. All the locals eyes will be on the prime time matchup at the Cascadia Bank Stadium where the hosts 95X are favored over the Western Sunrise Islands.

[95X]

95X 4, Quebec 3
(Scholls :21, Sunray :36, Morrison :71 :82; :29, :54, :90+1)

"Do they really have to chant the words to THAT song the entire match?" a perplexed member of the domestic media asked while hearing the 95X fans chant "it's not even summer why does the DJ keep on playing Summertime Sadness?" and all the rest of the lines yet another time. It was moments to halftime and 95X was up 2-1 over Quebec, whose fans somehow brought "personal effects" to the stands with them. The haze never made the field as high-powered fans blew things away from the stadium. That first half showed 35-year-old Elyssa Scholls still had it in her, cutting through the defense to give 95X the early lead. Quebec would respond at the other end shortly thereafter, only for 95X to retake the lead on a surprise goal from the feet of defender Lindsay Sunray.

As the second half began, that nameless media assistant breathed a sigh of relief as the 95X fans did in fact know something else, "I have never wished and hoped" was the first chant of the second half and as the game progressed, "Kanye" was burned into everyone's heads. Scholls would take another shot at the goal in the 50th minute, only to take a fall that evoked a gasp from the crowd. There was no call from the international referees and officials who were brought in for the game, supposedly from San Jose Guaybal, but nobody was quite sure.

Randy Larch knew it was time. Twenty-year old Micah Morrison was subbed into the game as Scholls accepted a roaring applause from the 95Xers. As the side regrouped, Quebec took advantage of the situation and tied the game at two. But Morrison seemed able to read the game beyond his experience, scoring two late goals to put 95X on top for good. Quebec's third goal came far too late to stop the 95X victory.

[95X]

AOCAF LII/52 Quarterfinals

Vilita & Turori 2–1 Eshan

Audioslavia 0–1 Krytenia

Osarius 1–4 Chromatika

Western Sunrise Islands 1–0 95X (Scored by Damukuni)
(Game start time delayed thirty minutes to 8:30 PM due to skirmishes outside the stadium between "95X is for 95Xers" and Sunrisians, host officials issue apology letter.)

Semifinals Schedule
#2 Vilita & Turori vs. #11 Krytenia @ Cascade Dome, 6 PM
#5 Western Sunrise Islands vs. #9 Chromatika @ Taylor Street Stadium, 12 PM (Match moved to smaller venue for "security" reasons, ticket holders should contact point-of-sale for further assistance.)

[Chromatika]

By: Jordan Lawless, Chief Correspondent, Previous Sports Corresponsdent, Chromatik City Courier

On the Previous Match...

A 4-1 drubbing of Osarius was... Unexpected, to say the least. I mean, Thorben played a brilliant match, only conceding the goal late. What was unprecedented was how prepared the Chromatik offense was to take on the Osarians. Indeed, with Meagan Kelly chipping in with two assists, Andísorí scoring, Gabriella adding one, Sybill one late and a strike by Hellion to cap things off, Chromatika ran away from the game. It was a stellar effort for certain, and one that catapults them to the Semifinals of the second straight major tournament in a row. Not bad for a side that was probably looked down upon.

On the Next Match...

Another tournament semifinal, another matchup against a Sunrise. Sure, the Chromatik team is still reeling from the drubbing they received from the Unified Sunrise Islands, but Western is not quite the same as Unified, and the Chromatiks will have a far better chance than if they were going against the combined might of the two-time defending world champions. Amos is likely to start the best players in the usual line up. It will be a huge boost for the team to make it to the finals of a major tournament for the first time in their history...

An Addendum on the Chromatik League

The owners of the twelve teams of the First Division of the new Chromatik Football League petitioned to get one part of the league system changed: That the points from the first double-round-robin before the split into Premier Division 1 and Premier Division 2 count toward the final standings at half the points, rounded up. If two teams remain tied after the entirety of the season, the points they earned during the split division double- round-robin wold be the first tiebreaker. This proposal went through with a unanimous decision from the owners, as it would mean that the points that they earned during the first double-round-robin would matter to be more than just qualifying for the round-robin to go for the title. It was a major concern for pundits and critics around the league as well, so it is viewed as a fantastic change to the league system.

As for how the players will be spread out to the different teams, it seems that there will be a draft system instituted for the first season. As so many players in the Chromatik League were sent back home, and now each team will be required to have a twenty-three player roster, there will need to be a readjustment of players across the twelve teams in the Premier Division as well as a need for getting new players from the Universities and those who want to try football out for the first time. In fact, the Second Division will be mostly comprised of new players. It should be an interesting process.

---

Mascot's Corner

It seems that the battle to become the Chromatik mascot is between the Cosmos and the Chronomancers! Cosmos would mean that the team is always together to perform the same goal and move together in a united manner, while the Chromancers would imply that the team is timeless and able to thrive at a moment's notice. Which mascot would prevail?

[Western Sunrise Islands]

The Westerners were an exception.
An exception at the crowd, few of their numbers had managed to stay around.
Earlier, the more trigger-happy 95Xers figured a great way to do an example out of the traditionally wimpier Sunrise Islands. Few decided to go in the stadium either way, many figured they'd do a solid to the nicer folk, chose to instead watch the game nearby on bars and whatnot, handing their tickets willingly to the more impoverished native folk that might have had the wish of seeing their team face the Corsairs.
"95X is for 95Xers" sounded disgusting, specially if you didn't exactly knew what bolstered their wishes.
Alas, the short number of Western Sunrisian fans that entered weren't going to be intimidated and they knew their team would do the same.
The sound system of the Cascadia Bank Stadium announced that the police would be between both sides, just in case.
Hey, they knew best not to get in fisticuffs with those Sunrisians.
No one wants to eat a well placed Hitmonlee's kick to their jaw, for one.

Ayumi Hibiki sat at the team's bench.
Her eye flashed yellow. She figured if she was going to work as the team's manager for a while, a brief switch on her cyber-pieces could help.
The bench? The usual.
Vavá, Cambé, Leidimar, Handouver, Xaxim, Vitor Rainieri, Ed Morti, Lucas Birigui, Úrsula, Lenin and João Bosco.
Morti sighed, staring at the massive home crowd. The chants, pure English, sounded as well as one would expect giving the whole feel around the arena.
"They want us dead, I take." He asked to the manager.
Ayumi smiled.
"It happens when you're doing well. Don't worry."

Fernandinho stood under the bar. He sprinted to both sides twice.
Virmondes was on the left-back position, his eyes closed. Some would think he was under pressure, but he seemed to relax more without seeing anything. Sound could do justice.
Varela and Yvo stood in front of the box, eased. That whole thing wouldn't scare them.
On the other hand, Vespa was tense. Lack of trust on the set pieces was still a thing with her.
Bezerra kept in front of the two center-backs. Dicró and Fininha stood in front of him. Moreira shook his head, preparing for whatever was on the way.
In front of Moreira, remained Allan Texugo, Ayumi's more trusted forward, and Arceus Vila Lobos, still considered a coadjuvant to Texugo.

The game was harsh.
For 95X, remained the opportunity of reaching a third title and a way to appease the growing nationalist feeling in their homeland.
For the Sunrisians, there was that great chance of finally writing their name at a regional trophy.
And it seemed like the game was on its' way to be a stalemate.
But then, an opportunity arose.
Wu Fivetwelve didn't cover Fininha, who quickly found herself on the open, just steps away from the great area.
On her way, the only one left was Jacob Firdale, focused on the ball as Vespa tried to out-dash Lindsay Sunray at the wing.
A brief grasp of advantage on her battle let Vespa cross the ball.
Fininha managed to receive it, chesting it upwards.
She lifted her right leg as the ball started to return from its' short flight up.
Her right feet slammed against the ball, causing it to go on a diagonal.
It was just too far.

Too far from Firdale's grasp, reaching the top right angle of the goal.
Western Sunrise 1; 95X 0.
Fininha swung her left arm in circles, celebrating with the rest of the Corsairs.
Western Sunrise Islands, as unknown as they were when most people preferred to refer to the nation as "another extension of the Sunrise Islands conundrum" had just sealed themselves a spot at the semi-finals of the prestigious AOCAF.
The home national team failed to mount any sort of comeback, finding themselves stopped by the talents of Yvo and Varela.
And at last, the whistle blew.
Home supporters, specially those involved on that nefarious campaign were disgruntled.
Losing to some Sunrise Islands was insulting.
The police had to act, guaranteeing protection to the Westerners who themselves were rather eased by it all.
Their team had won and they themselves were still nothing to mess with.
The Corsairs partied with their fans.
WSI now had to face Chromatika.
Ayumi relented, for now she had to figure out how the hell they'd beat one of the top four sides of the entire multiverse.
But hey, there has to be a way, right?

[Vilita and Turori]

Eel-Cat Things advance to Semi-Finals...

It was a tighter match than the Vilita & Turori Eel-Cat Things would have liked at the Cascade dome against the 16th seeded hands of Eshan, but Kristoffer Kilpters top-ranked side weathered the storm and forged ahead to their second consecutive AOCAF Semi-Final Appearance.

The Eel-Cat Things, who haven't claimed the AOCAF title since winning back-to-back during AOCAF 41 and AOCAF 42, have made the podium in every odd-numbered tournament since AOCAF 41 including four runner-up finishes but no victories. The even numbered competitions have not been so kind to Vilita & Turori, including AOCAF 50 which was hosted in Vilita & Turori but saw the favored hosts knocked out in the Quarter Finals.

Now, on the home turf of one of their fiercest of Roller-Coaster rivals, Kilpter and his players are looking to break through and make their first even numbered regional title match since their AOCAF 42 Triumph in Audioslavia.

Perhaps fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, many of the Eel-Cat Things primary rivals have already been eliminated. Valanora and Osarius - responsible for 3 of the Eel-Cat Things previous four AOCAF Final defeats have already been ousted. Additionally, the hosts - 95X, were stunningly dispatched by the Western Sunrise Islands. Riding on the recent successes of the Unified Sunrise Islands National Entry in the World Cup - back to back World Cup Champions, the Western installment of the Sunrise Islands is looking to collect more Sunrise Silverware. Standing in their way, however, will be Chromatika - a team still searching for an identity that will most certainly have one should they summon the Power of the Night and hold the Sunrise off.

Perhaps most directly important for the Eel-Cat Things however is the dispatching of 3-time AOCAF Champion Audioslavia by AOCAF originals Krytenia. Vilita & Turori based striker Kryhata Calanndi was left out of the starting lineup for the Bulls and the Krytenians took full advantage of the opportunity to return to the Semi-Finals as they continue searching for their first ever AOCAF title.

The Eel-Cat things will certainly enter the match favored but will have to be wary of the threat from their Cyan Challengers particularly after their narrow 1-0 victory over Audioslavia. The team heading into the Semi-Finals with all the momentum, however, is still Chromatika who thrashed Osarius and prevented the firebirds from advancing to their 8th straight Semi-Final - and did so by a 4-1 scoreline - with the Chromatiks netting as many goals on their own as the three other semi-finalist teams did combined in the Quarter Final stage.

[95X]

AOCAF LII/52 Semifinals

Vilita & Turori 0–0 Krytenia (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)

Western Sunrise Islands 0–1 Chromatika

Third Place Game

Vilita & Turori vs. Western Sunrise Islands
@ Cascade Dome, 10 AM
Following the Third Place Game, the host nation will make a special announcement.

AOCAF LII/52 Championship Game

Chromatika vs. Krytenia
@ Cascadia Bank Stadium, 2 PM

[Krytenia]

Please assume YES for all answers in the Permission Box – just don’t kill anyone, K?

KRYTENIA 2240 AOCAF CUP SQUAD
Modifier: +3

THE MANAGEMENT TEAM

Manager – Dario NAVAS, Age 53
Rami Niblick's former assistant manager. He's a little more defensive than his predecessor, which is like saying that black is a little darker than hex colour #111111.

Assistant Manager – Cordell TATE, Age 55
Goalkeeping Coach – Michael VERDETTI, Age 61
Defensive Coach – Steven PRIMROSE, Age 56
Offensive Coach – Mark YAKIMOV, Age 55
Physiotherapist – Jessica NELSON, Age 51

THE SQUAD

Devon WILLIAMS
Age: 26
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Emberton Reds
Six-foot-seven, seventeen stone, and as agile as a cat. If he wasn't a goalkeeper, he could get a job in acting as "Scary Black Man #3".

Marcus LYONS
Age: 29
Position: Right-back
Club: Bradwell Saints
Energetic defender with a keen eye for a pass.

Mitchell MITCHELL
Age: 35
Position: Left-back
Club: Ashton Olympic
The man with possibly the most unimaginative parents ever, "Mitchy Mitch" is a force to be reckoned with in the tackle.

Rob ADAMS
Age: 32
Position: Centre-back
Club: Mercia Bromham
Cultured centre-half who feels most comfortable in a pressing game.

Alfie XOUSA
Age: 36
Position: Centre-back
Club: Avidia United
Combining intelligence with pace, Xousa has matured into the thinking man's centre-back.

Mark RANKINE
Age: 35
Position: Central midfield
Club: Stanton Town
Looked to be heading for the scrapheap before Stanton took a chance on him; he's repaid that faith with a string of high-class performances in the engine-room.

VALRAUNCION
Age: Elf
Position: Forward
Club: Telecontarë (STB)
Ah, the infamous elf. Valrauncion is, at least for now, the only Krytenian international who can lay claim to a World Cup winners' medal. He made a home for himself in Ousevale over the years, and when Starblaydia withdrew from international football at the end of World Cup 57, the KFA made a cheeky request to naturalise the striker and offer him a place in the cyan. To their astonishment, he accepted. Now back where it all began for his club, the Cyan Army still knows that he may be a cock, but he's OUR cock.

Marco ANGELO
CAPTAIN
Age: 38
Position: Right midfield
Club: Emberton Reds
Maturing like a fine Chablis, Angelo has lost only a little pace, and crosses beautifully. The one downside is that he no longer has Ronnie van Rijn to aim at; the upside is that Alex Sampson has developed in a similar vein. Also, Valrauncion.

Alexander SAMPSON
Age: 34
Position: Forward
Club: Ousevale Borough
Ronnie van Who of Where? Alex Sampson is banging them in for club and country, and we couldn't be happier.

Armando ORTEGA
Age: 32
Position: Attacking midfield/forward
Club: Avidia United
Where to begin? Plays like the ball is glued to his feat, is completely fearless against defences...and he's just about at the peak of his powers. Expect fireworks. And Exocets. Maybe the odd ICBM.

Adrian ANUZZI
Age: 36
Position: Left midfield
Club: Emberton Reds
May never completely fulfil his tag as the "new Kiefer Lloyd". Captaining the Under-21s added some strings to his bow though.

Jaime VERDANO
Age: 25
Position: Central midfield
Club: Avidia United
Slick passer of the ball with slicked-back hair and a smooth style. One for the future.

Marcus BAILEY
Age: 35
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Mercia Bromham
Excellent all-round talent; unfortunately for him, seems doomed to the role of second choice stopper for the national team.

Neil DONNER
Age: 34
Position: Right midfield
Club: Ashton Olympic
One of the best players to come out of the Mother Bear City in years (Mitchell Mitchell was signed from Ousevale Juniors, so he doesn't count.) Loves to make full-backs work.

Damiano MORENO
Age: 25
Position: Right-back
Club: Avidia United
Burst on the scene in the latter half of Liga Calania Season XV. Bags of pace.

Scott PERSHING
Age: 35
Position: Central midfield
Club: Caledon Simpson
A late bloomer who's been turning heads. Has the unfortunate job of being Ortega's understudy.

Leo FLORES
Age: 29
Position: Forward
Club: Avidia United
Flores is, *ahem*, blossoming nicely as a striker.

David HOLZMANN
Age: 35
Position: Forward
Club: Royal Emberton
Clinical in the box, but could do with improving his workrate off the ball.

Stephen ROSSI
Age: 28
Position: Centre-back
Club: Stanton Town
No-nonsense, hard-tackling central defender.

Michael COKER
Age: 37
Position: Centre-back
Club: Leston Town
Ah, Leston, the City of Industry. No surprises, then, that Coker is a hard-working engine in the back line.

Peter ALEXANDERSSON
Age: 30
Position: Left midfield
Club: Royal Emberton
Excellent crosser of the ball; not the fastest, if we're honest.

Owain MORGAN
Age: 27
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: New Cefn Albion
Lists former national team hero Arian as his inspiration. Gets plenty of shot-stopping practice as Albion keeper.

John MARSHALL
Age: 33
Position: Left-back
Club: Ousevale Borough
A rough diamond, tends to be too happy in bombing forward and exposing the defence. Good skills on the ball, though.

LIKELY STARTERS
Williams
Lyons - Xousa – Adams – Mitchell
Angelo (c) - Verdano - Anuzzi
Ortega
Valrauncion – Sampson

THE KITS

[Chromatika]

By: Jordan Lawless, Chief Correspondent, Previous Sports Corresponsdent, Chromatik City Courier

On the Previous Match...

To consider it "revenge" would be far fetched - there are no players on the Western Sunrise squad that plays for the Unified Sunrise squad - but it still feels great for the Chromatiks to take care of business against Western Sunrise and make it to the Finals of a major tournament for the first time in the nation's history. It wasn't a pretty win - usually it's like a late goal to seal it or something like that - but a win nonetheless. The sole goal of the match came in the sixteenth minute when Rachel Hellion was able to convert on a free kick past Fernandinho. The pace of the match was dictated by the Westerners - and so was the majority of the chances - but the Chromatik defense clamped down and never let them get much going overall. When they did, Thorben showed that he was back to form - and worthy of a competition with Nier - by stopping all of them with ease, the best of which was a one-handed extension in the upper left corner of the net. He easily earned many accolades from fellow players and the Manager.

"Nikolai has been working his tail off getting back on the pitch," commented Amos, "And it's shown with the results today. He played a amazing match."

When asked about a possible competition with Jillian for the starting role next cycle, she declined to comment.

On the Next Match...

The very first final ever contested by Chromatika will be against a historical side - Krytenia. Although not much information is available on how the Dragons got to this point, the Navas-led team has taken down the likes of Vilita & Turori, Audioslavia, and Tropicorp. It will be a hard match for certain. The Krytenians do have a history of flopping at the end, though, so possibly the Chromatiks do have a chance.

If the midfield can contest with the Dragons' and they can keep the sharp offense in check and use the Chromatik counterattack, it should be a good match.

Should being the operative word.

---

The Goalkeeping Controversy

So what is the situation of the goalkeepers moving forward? Thorben is the veteran, having championed Chromatik efforts from the very beginning. Nier is the hot hand, having led the Chromatiks to the World Cup Semifinals. Ria is the protege, the goalkeeper of the future. What does Amos have in store for the goalkeepers moving forward?

Well, it seems that she's sticking with Thorben for now - it might have to do with his seniority, it might have to do with his service, it might just be that he has been the first team keeper this tournament. If he has a great performance against Krytenia and the Chromatik squad wins, that will be a definite plus for certain. But the next World Cup Qualifying Cycle will definitely decide whether Nikolai deserves a few more cycles before handing it off to Jillian for certain.

Mia? Well, she'll get some more U-21 experience and be on the squad from now on (I doubt Amos will have any less than three keepers from now on after last cycle's troubles with injuries in the position). That should ready her for the years to come.

At this rate? The years to come should be golden. Isn't that an exciting thought.

Having this kind of... controversy (?) is good for the team. It's just accelerated, high-risk competition, that's all.

[Krytenia]

The Magic Number?
By Rami Niblick in Cascadia, 95X

THERE are many who thought we may never see this day again. For only the third time in the nation's long, long history, Krytenia have reached the final of a major competition. Those who remember the last time it happened, at World Cup LVIII, will be drawing their pensions by this point, whilst only the nigh-immortal and semi-ethereal will remember the Dragons' first final, all the way back in this very competition's seventh iteration.

History, you would think, is not on Krytenia's side. Those two appearances not only resulted in two defeats, they also proced a grand total of zero Krytenian goals (shoot-out notwithstanding). To make it even more galling, that first final was a defeat to none other than the Dragons' deadliest rivals, the Men In Mauve themselves. They haven't let us forget it, either.

There is one unusual thing about this third final appearance, though. For the first time, Krytenia enter the final of a major tournament as the favourites. That's no disrespect to the team from Chromatika, who have done very well to get this far, but Krytenia are widely regarded as giants in the region. True, these are giants not so much sleeping as so deeply comatose moss has grown over them, but the point still remains, this is a side of experience and expertise. Indeed, for most of the team this will be their last game in the white and sky blue, and they'll want to go out with a bang.

For now, though, there is only one thing to add. Tonight, as the region watches the third place playoff, twenty-three men from Calania's greatest nation will prepare to sleep, to dream, and awaken to meet destiny face to face, come what may. All we ask is that they hold nothing back, and hope upon hope that the long elusive silverware finally ends up in the hands of this fair country. ONWARD!

[95X]

AOCAF LII/52 Third Place Game

Vilita & Turori 1–2 Western Sunrise Islands
Congratulations to the Corsairs on their third-place win.

AOCAF LII/52 Sportsmanship Award

At a presentation in the Cascade Dome following the Third Place Game, old standard-definition videos of Micah Skokomish played, later regarded by sports historians and researchers as the first team captain of the 95X National Team. At a podium on the field a 95X official announced the creation of the "Micah Skokomish AOCAF Sportmanship Award." The award was presented to Verceola for their efforts despite finishing with a 0-0-3 record in Group X.
(OOC: I wanted to recognize what I considered a great RP effort from a new nation.)

AOCAF LII/52 Championship

Chromatika 1–5 Krytenia
Congratulations to Cyan Blue, losing semifinals since 2004 yet winning an AOCAF in 2017.

[Verceola]

Alejandro Ventura had hardly expected that his team would be particularly competitive in its first international matches, let alone taking any hardware home from its first tournament. Every member of the team had a full-time job, save for one college student. There was no professional domestic football league, and all the players had been drawn from intramural teams and adult leagues, and then selected from a few days of tryouts. The manger, Joseph Peters, had really taken the initiative to host the tryouts and get the government support, yet despite his best efforts, the proper paperwork to enter the tournament had only barely been submitted on time; furthermore, there wasn't a whole lot of initial chemistry in team camp - fights had nearly broken out in practice, and a lot of players kept to themselves off the field.

Yet somehow, it had all come together. Passes were connecting, the defense was formulating, and everyone was playing up to their best level. And Alejandro felt he had quickly made some very good friends, all united by the love of football and the goal of putting together a winning side. And when all the matches had settled, his team hadn't won a game, but they had played each game very close against top opposition; Declan Mullins had managed to break through with a goal against the storied Starblaydia side; and the Bulls had won the respect of the host nation even in defeat.

So it filled Alejandro's heart with pride to stand on the stage, as the captain of the Verceola Bulls, with Peters and the tournament organizers by his side, to accept the Micah Skokomish AOCAF Sportsmanship Award. Alejandro really made sure he savored the moment, waving to the fans who had gathered to watch Western Sunrise Islands and Vilita & Turori battle for third place, and who seemed to appreciate his team's contribution to the tournament. For him, it was a recognition that he and his teammates had played their hardest and fairest, and had persevered despite the long odds against them. And Alejandro had been worried that his teammates could lose their jobs, that their nation would look down on them, but the press coverage back home had shown nothing but admiration and support.

After a brief stop home, it was time to start World Cup qualifying, with the debutants tournament, the Baptism of Fire, coming before that. There still lay a long road ahead to improve, and the Bulls were still seeking their first win. But despite zero wins on the table in 95X, it was safe to say that the Verceola national team had taken many other significant victories during their stay.

[95X]

Since we talk at length about rank, roleplay, and randomness, I think one of the ways we can make NS Sports a better place is by discussing how they're actually used by tournament hosts.

The system I used for AOCAF 52 was literally a simple "RPs added to rank" system, expressed mathematically as x = y + z, where x = xkoranate "skill" input, y = rank as calculated and posted by Vilita on the regional forum, and z = total RP points for rosters and roleplays updated for each cutoff.

Speaking of rosters and roleplays, each was graded on an integer scale with a maximum of 5 points per roster/matchday, with RPs posted before MD 1 receiving the same credit as a matchday RP; a total of 10 points were possible before the tournament started. Of the 54 roster and roleplay posts, 22 received 5 points. The lowest grade awarded on any RP was a -1.

This is an example of a roster that received 5 points.

This is an example of a roleplay that received 5 points.

(Note that the above are merely examples and not meant to call anyone out or say that others didn't have well-written roleplays.)

The second example brings me to my last observation: despite falling over Christmas, eight roleplays were posted for MD 3, more than any other matchday. Perhaps people seem to enjoy bonus opportunities, or this takes into account the four days between MDs.

There's also a couple of things I learned hosting this, which was my largest hosted tournament to date:
1. Use a different skill input system in the future.
2. Begin grading RPs before your cutoff, this will avoid quite a bit of agony for participants.
3. We should file for future reference that holding tournaments over the holidays will lead to lower overall participation.

In conclusion, I believe this was a memorable tournament for everyone involved, and I wish everyone the best in RL 2017.

[Krytenia]

(tune from here)

Two centuries we've been a mess
We can't undo what has been done
What is another?
But now we have only heroes left
We're walking proudly in the sone
Once and forever
So now we dry your eyes
And tell the tale of five to one
Our band of brothers
So we place the cyan flag unfurled
The greatest nation in the world

We are the heroes in the sky
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die
We are the heroes in the sky
Hero-oes, O-oh
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die
Hero-oes O-oh

We are the heroes in the sky
Hero-oes, O-oh
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die
Hero-oes O-oh

Chromatika, no song for you
There are no words, there is no sound
It's devastation
When there's Sampson and Valrauncion
There is no choice but going down
To the Krytie nation
Cyan Army never left your side
When you were lost we followed right behind
In all frustration
Now we place the cyan flag unfurled
The greatest nation in the world
We sing together

We are the heroes in the sky
Hero-oes, O-oh
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die
Hero-oes O-oh
We are the heroes

We will be there for the Dragons
You are all our heroes

Let is place the cyan flag unfurled
The greatest nation in the world
We sing together

We are the heroes in the sky
Hero-oes O-oh
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die
Hero-oes O-oh
We are the heroes in the sky (You keep flying)
Hero-oes O-oh (With the Dragons, you could be a hero)
And we'll follow Dragons till the day we die (You keep flying)
Hero-oes O-oh (With the Dragonsons, you could be a hero)

We are the heroes