Baptism of Fire 64 [Everything Thread]

by **EEC** » Sat Jan 21, 2017 6:30 pm

EEC MAKES IT TO THE KNOCKOUTS!

“I don't know if we parked the bus, or the plane but whatever we parked worked” quoted Rietveld as EEC is hold on a scoreless draw against Andromeda Archipelago, while the match could be held as an example of everything boring about football, EEC Employees all around can be celebrating their first knockout stage entry in the sport.

The match was set on course for a snorefest as EEC lined up in a defensive 5-4-1, while Andromeda Archipelago's highly offensive 3-3-4 could have made the match interesting for neutrals but EEC's highly rear-placed line and man marking lead to both teams having no shots on target for the first 25 minutes

It had looked like the first half could go on with no shots on target at all until the 39th minute when a Andromedian striker tried to place a shot on EEC's goal out of the box which Seabrooke managed to get his hands on, this also lead to EEC's first shot as Andromeda failed to capitalized their corner kick and was intercepted by Constantine the Eager. EEC quickly went on to counter attack with a pass to Evan Baldwin who dashed the whole distance from both goals, what looked like a sure goal went wrong due to miscalculating which led to him blasting the ball to post, leaving most EEC fans confused.

The 2nd half looked promising with EEC switching back to 4-3-3 and getting on the break on the kick-off to get their first shot on goal but Andromedian goalkeeper's safe hands just punched it out, following this EEC reverted back to their stalwart 5-4-1 and waiting to hit back on counter attack from the 1st half.

EEC's fortunes seemed bleak across the first half as the team had 0 shots on target due to switching to a more conservative approach in the building up on the attacks and closing down into the box more frequently but, this allowed them to weather the storm without conceding after the 22th minute goal.

With Andromeda not switching to an offensive tactic either the game back to it's usual slow pace until the 63rd minute when an Andromedian striker made a rush for the box, Finlay Ayers misjudged the tackle leading to the first penalty awarded and red card against EEC in the association football, the Andromedian striker went for a quick tap for the left-bottom corner but was caught by Gerrard Seabrooke, using the ball EEC went for another counter attack but all was dashed when Evan Baldwin fell into an offside trap.

With the minutes of the game comprised of both opponents waiting for each opponent to strike as EEC was playing more conservatively due to being a man down, the final attempt came in at the 86th minute when Evan Baldwin successfully dribbled past 4 Andromedian defenders but all had came to an end when he was closed down by the goalkeeper.

In the press conference Rietveld was pushed on the dreadful display of a performance, he responded towards this criticism as quoted “We needed points to qualify, and it worked. Andromeda has a strong team and I didn't want to risk dropping points in a crucial game like this, I don't know if we parked the bus, or the plane but whatever we parked worked and gave us the points we needed” and Rietveld has said that he is not afraid of the upcoming fixture “Henton might be undefeated but they can't keep that up forever, It's just not possible and I always back my lads to do well.” and that will hold a celebration for the team “After this win, they deserve something, after all most of the team came here as a vacation but really haven't been relaxing”

EEC is set to play Henton as their next fixture, while Henton went undefeated in their group the match is still up for grabs for both teams.

by **Drawkland** » Sat Jan 21, 2017 10:40 pm

MATCHDAY THREE: AMNAREI-ASUD
Written By: Ellen Bolabore and Travis Plant

RECENT RESULTS
GROUP C:
Turkmenbasyn 1–4 Amnarei-asud
Drawkland 1–1 Kernovi
Amnarei-asud 4–2 Kernovi
Turkmenbasyn 0–3 Drawkland
Drawkland 1–1 Amnarei-asud
Kernovi 1–0 Turkmenbasyn
Group C                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Amnarei-asud                 3   2  1  0    9   4  +5    7
2 Drawkland                    3   1  2  0    5   2  +3    5
3 Kernovi                      3   1  1  1    4   5  −1    4
4 Turkmenbasyn                 3   0  0  3    1   8  −7    0

KICK CORPS FIXTURES:
Drawkland 1-1 Kernovi @ ezMART Stadium
Turkmenbasyn 0–3 Drawkland @ ezMART Stadium
Drawkland 1-1 Amnarei-asud @ ezMART Stadium
Ndaku vs Drawkland @ Snowflake Stadium

Drawkland wore "home" kits versus Amnarei-asud, who also use Meski-designed kits.

While playoff qualification for Drawkland wasn't in the bag going into Matchday 3 against dreaded groupmate Amnarei-asud, it was incredibly likely considering the circumstances, all the Kick Corps needed was to not lose, or to not lose by a huge margin, in order to advance past groupmates Kernovi. And ... well, we never really know how to keep things secret for half and article. So here's the scoop.

Drawkland has made it to the Round of 16!¹ So at least we weren't one of the poor sods that everybody expected to be title contenders and then get unceremoniously dumped out in the group stage.² While a 1-1 draw isn't necessarily what either team was expecting, it still got the result the Kick Corps was looking for and thus, we can't complain much.

vs AMNAREI-ASUD
Amnarei-asud, as you may have found out, is a tiny dictatorial sandy island nation in Atlantian Oceania, which we cannot locate for some reason.³ And, entirely unsurprisingly, they only sent 150 fans to cheer on their team, escorted by almost that many paramilitary guards. So, with them plus some neutral fans wanting to see the tumultuous match, the Drawkians in the crowd numbered a hair over 20,000. Being the highest attendance by a Drawkian crowd in the tournament, as well as being the one deciding the immediate fate of the Kick Corps, it was set to be a doozy of a match. Luckily and strategically, tournament organizers placed Amnarei-asud fans in their own section of ezMART Stadium, flanked on both sides by neutral fans, thus making sure that the other 5/6 of the full-capacity stadium wouldn't end up starting any ugly fights.

Amnarei-asud put out their normal, 3-3-1-3 formation on the field, which could be easily be mistaken for the similar 3-3-4 scheme the Kick Corps employs. Really, the Drawkian formation could probably be described as a 3-3-1-2-1, but that's a bit long-winded and apparently most teams don't even have 4 strikers on the field at once so it's pointless to be particular about it. Surprisingly, they started Usama Boulos as the "1" striker in their 3-3-1-3 instead of Abdul-Rahman Saab. We don't really know why, since Saab has basically been the only one scoring any significant goals and from the brief time Boulos had been on the pitch, he's been gloriously garbage. I mean, the Asud really do seem like a very sketchy people, what with their coach taking mysterious orders from the sideline, the massive amounts of armed guards, and all that, but who are we to judge? And we're kinda deliberating the real action recap. Our bad.

Drawkland got the ball to start the match, and after Ellzidan kicked it to Corrie Archer, the Drawk Corps striker passed it to the Crawford substitute Aurora Jewel who was getting her first cap as part of the Kick Corps, and she in turn passed it off to Siv Foss, who knocked a header loose to Ellzidan, who passed it back to the feet Jewel, who went in for a shot in minute 1. The early pressure was to be expected, but Bahadur Petrosyan took it surprisingly well. In fact, as you will soon notice, the defenses were quite on point for a game hallmarked by two heavily offensive mindset teams. To be perfectly frank, we expected like a 5-4 close match with goals peppered throughout the entire game, but it was absolutely a defensive slugfest. Props to both the defensive backfield as well as the goalkeepers, especially Jessie Peterson⁵ for expertly controlling the ball throughout the game.

Anyhow, following a throw-in by the Fennec Foxes in minute 14 from an off-target shot by Mickey Watson, a period of about 15 minutes was spent on the opposite side of the field, with the Amnarei-asud team absolutely wearing out the Drawkian backfield. They remained firm though, in perhaps the longest drive the Corps defense has had to deal with all tournament. Boulos of the Foxes was certainly showing flair during this time, but despite this he showed absolutely no threat to the goal. In fact, Sarah Arrowsword actually stopped most of his fancy moves, as she is known for having superior focus and stoppage of "skillful" drives. Ghufran El-Amin was actually the star of that show, getting a few shots on target but ultimately saved by Peterson. Eventually, a perfectly-read Boulos juke ended in an easy takeover by Arrowsword, who booted the ball far downfield to the waiting feet of Archer. Archer managed a weak shot on the goal, which Petrosyan threw back in to Faisal Karim. Unfortunately for the winger, he was immediately covered by Ella Cornelius, who swiped the ball off so hard Karim went spinning. Cornelius almost got penalized, as Zuzanna Krzeszewska was seen reaching for her card, but the sympathetic referee let it slide and the drive continued. The Corps frontfield launched into a series of well-rehearsed crossing passes, moving the ball from left to right on the field, waiting for an opportunity. In minute 35, that opportunity came, as Cam Cross was suddenly out in the open, behind and left Masood Alfarsi. Seeing her opportunity, she unleashed a nasty hooking kick which seemed to take a sideways-U-shaped path across the field to the goal. Despite his high caliber performance all match, the ball's trajectory was too good, and Petrosayn was caught diving to the left as the ball suddenly spun to the right and went into the net. The crowd was explosive and the stadium erupted into cheers, even the neutral fans who were honestly glad some action started happening, especially after Amnarei-asud gained the reputation of "the 4-X team." Come on, the fans wanted action!

Back to said action. The rest of the first half honestly was rather dry, with the Foxes taking over the ball and placing it into the feet of Boulos, waiting for some high-octane, impressive scoring action. Despite keeping possession until the whistle blew, none such scoring occurred. After getting the ball back from the half, the Asud players attempted again with giving Boulos the ball, but everything quickly petered out. The ball began to take a back-and-forth motion on the field, each team getting about 5 minutes and 2 good shots at the goal in before it inevitably changed sides and momentum again, and again, and again. However, the Drawkian onlookers and the Corps themselves were perfectly content with this sort of action as they held a 1-0 lead. Eventually though, Aslan Sato slowly made his way to the side of the arena, which TOTALLY nobody noticed, and had a quick conversation with the wall apparently, as well as nervous glances near the luxury box level, and then subbed out Boulos for Saab. Saab, despite being a completely unflashy, old, and containing much less stamina, immediately became a fearsome force on the field. As Arrowsword shifted assignments to cover El-Amin, Saab was covered by Cornelius, who honestly did a flat-out gross job of defending. Being a more offensively-minded player, Cornelius was not on her best defending game, and Saab easily bypassed her on the wing. By the time Arrowsword realized her teammate had made a mistake, she was sprinting across the field to stop the goal before it happened, eventually going into a flying feet-first kick at the already-in-motion ball, which missed. As she hit the ground and slid, she turned her head around to watch the ball. It arced beautifully and simply through the air, and the wing attack left Peterson on her heels on where to defend it from. Her gut instinct was wrong, as she slid to protect the ball from bouncing in, but the ball bounced in front of her and shooed over her head and into the net for an 81st minute equalizer. The meager Asud crowd went wild, as the Drawkian crowd went the other way, generally exuded half-hearted boos, or the signature diminishing "hissing" noise Drawkian soccer crowds are famous for making.

To add self-imposed insult to injury, Cornelius was found viciously cursing after the goal at herself, mainly for allowing the scoring play to occur. Because of this, Krzeszewska the referee didn't give her the benefit of the doubt this time and showed her a yellow card in the next minute. The rest of the match occurred with the striking lines of the Kick Corps madly shooting at the goal, most of which missed and went into the hands⁶ of the Fennec Foxes briefly before being turned over. Ultimately the drive went for nothing and the match went into a 1-1 draw, which was fortunately still enough for Drawkland to qualify for the playoffs!

BoF 64 MD3, ezMART Stadium, Mercedini	Score	Goals	Cards
DRAWKLAND	1	35' Cross	82' Cornelius
AMNAREI-ASUD	1	81' Saab

PLAYER PERFORMANCES
The Kick Corps is now 5-4-5, a respectable and even record, all things considered. Interesting trivia, 3 out of the 4 draws in Kick Corps history have ended 1-1. The other was 3-3 against Averyickan City (and also the Corps' first match). Anyway, here's how each player did overall.

Peterson: 7.9 Jessie did well for her first cap, but her performance still left something to be desired. Even though she defended great, the long match clearly took a toll on her. The equalizing play of the match was halfway scored because of her misjudgment of the ball flight, which is kinda a rookie mistake. Doesn't get in the 8 point territory but is damn close.
Arrowsword: 9.2 Sarah overperformed as always, keeping the defense top-notch against a very talented Amnarei side. Her crushing of Boulos' antics was impressive and fairly hilarious. However, the price of being consistently good is that good performances are the norm, and therefore it's kinda hard to boost up her performance ranking any more than it already is.
Pack: 7.0 Cynthia did better this match than she did in the Baptism opener, especially because she layed low and avoided any carding situations. The price to pay for laying low was also not being involved in many plays. She was very good at forcing her opponent to pass the ball to someone or somewhere in the general vicinity of Sarah Arrowsword, which reaped rewards for the team as a whole.
Yanks: 6.8 Melitta, the Bolabore Anvils back, was not the best of the pitch today by a long shot. She didn't make any huge mistakes, but as many this tournament have pitfallen, she also made absolutely zero difference in the match. We believe that Nicole Warren could've staying in this match and half-assed, no, quarter-assed this match and probably have been more effective.
Cornelius: 6.5 However, Ella was the deciding factor in allowing this match to end in a draw. The last 10 minutes of the match were horrible for the Dalumar midfielder, allowing half a goal and getting the game's only yellow card, as well as almost getting carded earlier. Only thing keeping her above water is the fact that she pulled off a tackle in the Drawkian side of the field which led to the only Kick Corps score.
Ellzidan: 8.9 Ellzidan wasn't in her top game it seems, not getting a piece of the scoring action, but she was the crux, the hub, the nub of the team when routing the ball to other players to make plays. As always a fearsome force on the pitch, although she definitely seemed distracted and kept staring off at somewhere beyond the Amnarei bench. Perhaps the old, wise elf could see whoever Sato talks to in the shadows. Whatever the case.
Foss: 8.0 Siv was a lot more significant in this game than she was in the last, getting involved in more plays and being better at defensive stops, which is more her forte than say, offensive attacks. We hope to see more of her in the coming match(es).⁷
Jewel: 7.9 In her first international cap, Aurora and her larger form⁸ was a boon to the field, but not exactly a divine blessing. We may see more of her, but considering she's a sub for Jackie Crawford, we're not so sure on that one.
Archer: 8.1 Corrie wasn't the dominant force she was against Kernovi and Turkmenbasyn, but damn she still impressed us. We think she'll be staying on for a long time, both in tournament and in cycle terms.
Watson: 7.8 Mickey, despite starting in the Global Cup of Soccer, is admittedly not the best in her position. If she had less lackluster performances and made more plays and goal shots, she'd probably be better suited for the team. Definitely better than some alternatives, though.
Cross: 9.1 And here we are, yet again, at Cam Cross. Scoring for her second game and second cap in a row, Cam has definitely proven to be a worthy member of the team. It's a shame that this is at the expense of Katie Madison, but we expect that some position-shuffling will occur to get them both on the pitch at once. Imagine that powerful pairing.

Team Score: 7.92 All in all, while this was no 0-3 blowout, it was definitely a better performance than the first 1-1 draw against Kernovi. We can definitely say that the team deserved a middle-ground score, between the 8.01 and 7.81 of the past 2 matches. We definitely need the team to be breaching the 8 point level in order to make a deep playoff run, though. Come on, we're expecting metal! Silverware! We need better than the Global Cup of Soccer result and everyone knows it. So yeah, Kick Corps should be on the rise.

#NDAvsDRK
So, being second in the group and qualifying for the Round of 16, Drawkland was set to be drawn against the first place team in Group B. This team was Ndaku, who went 3-0-0 in their group⁹ and scored 3, 5, and 4 points in their games. While they were a force to be reckoned with, we can't say we're super intimidated. Group B simply was not as competitive as Group C. Plus, one could say that the Kick Corps has more experience and thus more moxy coming into this one.

The Ndakene press has already been discussing this upcoming matchup and have even suggested fans use the #NDAvsDRK hashtag on social media when posting about it. We're doing a plug for this so that said tag will be flooded by blind, patriotic, awesome, and hopefully all-caps support of the Kick Corps for this one.

This match will also be the first one in this tournament that the Kick Corps will be playing out of Zholvi. It will be in Snowflake Arena in the capital of Mercedini, Zolorini. Unfortunately, it's also another smaller-capacity stadium, only 29,000 seats a stone's throw away from a 61k seater, Zolorini Sports City Stadium. However, it's only a Round of 16 match¹⁰ so it makes sense that it would be in a slightly less-impressive stadium, if only to provide a progressive and rewarding experience for teams that advance and continue on to bigger, better, and louder stadiums.

The Ndakene Men's team, the one playing in this tournament, plays a 2-1-3-4 formation,¹¹ which is offensively minded but by no means as attacking at Drawkland's. Still, one can expect a high-scoring match, and hopefully Drawkland will come out on top.

Another factor that will play in is this apparent "anti-human" discrimination issue happening among Ndaku and its citizens. While Drawkians are by no means human, and this is pretty obvious, we still would remain wary of such a fact. I mean, Drawkland's citizens look very close to humans, except being taller and slightly different in internal operations. Although, Ellzidan, being an Elf, and an extremely old and unique hybrid mumbo-jumbo business¹² could spell danger, but we'd expect she'd be able to handle her own against some angry humans after 5366 years of dealing with much worse creatures. But, to be fair, not all Ndakene people are like this. I think many once were, but now it's limited to a few gangs wholly committed to being anti-non-human. And OF COURSE some of the Ndaku team members are part of this organization, allegedly, but this won't be an issue. If they're aggressive they'll be carded, and if they aren't carded then the aggressiveness favor shall be returned in double force.¹³ Of course some fans might also be an issue but meh, we'll probably outnumber them anyway.

As far as the actual game goes,¹⁴ the Ndaku roster definitely has more depth and some weirder names. But we're still confident the slimmer and badass-er Drawkian squad can pull it out over them. As we said before, it'll be an exciting and high-scoring affair which may even go into Extra Time, but please God not penalties.¹⁵

Also, Michael Starre actually posted the intended roster early this time, and thus we have a player-to-player matchup available for you to compare and make your own opinions about. You may notice some Drawkian players are playing out of position, on different parts of the field than they're used to. So help us God.

#10 Sithembile Sisomo (Forward)
#18 Sajjad Duha (Forward; Captain)
#16 Wekesa Fabron (Forward)
#9 Karen Harden (Forward)
#6 Baako Yamikani (Midfielder)
#27 Ejiroghene Gosse (Midfielder)
#72 Willard Muguruzu (Midfielder)
#29 Bousaid Manu (Defender)
#17 Christian Albert (Defender)
#32 Oshea Madeira (Defender)
#2 Kyle Morgan (Goalkeeper)

#11 Katie Madison (Center Forward)
#20 Leea May (Right Forward)
#8 Jackie Crawford (Left Forward)
#10 Corrie Archer (Withdrawn Forward)
#5 Mandy Thompson (Right Midfielder)
#7 Ellzidan (Center Midfielder)
#17 Kaitlyn Axelson (Left Midfielder)
#3 Nicole Warren (Rightback)
#2 Cynthia Pack (Leftback)
#1 Sarah Arrowsword (Centerback)
#0 Savannah Everett (Goalkeeper)

PLAYOFF PROJECTIONS
And now everybody's favorite part, DNSN's really Godawfully bad guesses at playoff outcomes! This time we'll only be doing Round of 16 predictions, despite there being a hardlined, easy-to-follow bracket structure rather than some reseeding BS. Other news services are even guessing goal outcomes, but we're so bad at even guessing who will WIN, much less the actual margin, that we'll rather just reduce the potential, and eventual, embarrassment.

We know a bit more about the Mercedini Side of things so we expect these predictions to be slightly more accurate.
Mriin vs Juvencus will be a close matchup, as the nation of youth takes on the nation of Satyrs and other some such creatures. Ultimately, we have to root for our fellow Sonnelians in Juvencus. We expect Juvencus to win by an admittedly close margin.
Ndaku vs Drawkland will also be close but are you kidding me? Of course we're gonna predict a win. Haven't been jinxed yet!¹⁷ We think that it'll be a high scoring affair with Drawkland taking the win, likely After Extra Time.
Amnarei-asud vs Verceola is gonna be a blowout. We think Verceola is probably about the same level of playing at Kernovi, and Kernovi got wrecked 4-2 by the Fennec Foxes. Amnarei-asud is sure to advance, especially if they start Saab over Boulos.
Coldfield vs Kosovakia is yet another close-to-call match, but ultimately we think our friends in Kosovakia will win it, but Coldfield will not go down without a fight by any means.

We haven't followed the Bonesea Side as much, considering that we don't really have to worry about these teams until the Final if we even get there, and even then it's only a single team to research. Expect our hallmark hilarious inaccuracy.
Rebuild The Wall vs Nagore pits one weird name against a less-weird name. However, despite the odd name, Rebuild The Wall has a lot more fire in their play and will wipe out Nagore without much room for doubt.
Abristan vs Great Caledonia and North Hybernia is tough to call. While it hurts to say it, Great Caledonia and North Hybernia is clearly a good side, evident in Drawkland's GCoS result. Despite Abristan being a pretty decent squad, defeating the better-expected Savojarna 2-6 in the group stage, we expect Great Caledonia and North Hybernia to advance.
Hernton vs EEC is an interesting one. Despite going undefeated in their group containing the dreaded Great Caledonia and North Hybernia, Hernton doesn't give off that vibe of a really good team. We honestly believe the 1-1-1 corporate entity of EEC will go on to the Quarterfinals.
Nordernius vs Cosneolta, finally, is probably one of the closest matches we will see in this Round of 16, besides maybe Ndaku vs Drawkland. While Nordernius has an experienced manager, Cosneolta has well-versed players, many playing for Mercedinian clubs, and therefore many at least somewhat adjusted to the surroundings (despite being in Bonesea). We can't really tell with certainty who will advance, but we're getting a gut feeling of Nordernius winning the very close bout.

And that's that! All that's left is to wait, sacrifice a few rubber chickens (or ducks, if you're a baseball fan), and bite our fingernails all the way down, and watch these matches unfold. We can only hope the Kick Corps can pull it out! On Corps! Don't let us down, dammit!

by **Abristan** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 6:01 am

"Well, friends, it would seem our little gamble paid off", began Baze Al Shyr, Abristani Minister for Public Relations. "The support for the team has generated a superb patriotic feeling around the country, one I believe my department can play to our advantage. We only have to look at the poll results for the upcoming Freedom Bill to see support for your leadership is at an all time high, President Rijnder. Of course it helped that your son grabbed the first ever international goal in Abristani footballing history. However, my aides predict that whatever happens now the public will view the tournament as a success."

"Well hold on a moment", cut in Sports Minister Randel Ali Hargreaves. "I am as happy as anyone here about the strength of your leadership Sir, but don't you feel, well, we've got this far, whats to stop us going all the way. We beat a team tipped to be finalists 6-2 for God's sake! Its not what any of us expected but plans have to adaptable, and what would look better for you sir, that we were knocked out in the round of 16 after doing our best? Or that we went out to Bonesea and won, against all expectations? Sir, I believe this is just the beginning for Abristani football. If we were to divert more funds into my department who knows what would happen. Don't forget this is just the precursor to the real event, the World Cup, where Abristan will be on show to the entire globe. You said you wanted to make Abristan a name everyone would know. Well, the World Cup is just the place to do it!"

"I like your enthusiasm Mr Hargreaves", the President rumbled, "But I have no guarantee that if I authorise the increased funding, it will lead to a tangible increase in the results of the Abristani team. Its not just money that makes a team great. Its like that article in the Express, a quality newspaper you should all read by the way¹, flashy kits and boots don't win matches, which is exactly the mentality that has got our team this far in the first place."

"It is not flashy kits I'm asking for Mr President. Quite frankly we are lacking in coaches, referees and academy funding. We are lucky to have a generation now that is so good at the game, but without academy funding we have no idea what our team will look like in 10-20 years. I do not want us to be a one hit wonder Sir. Our top flight league is a joke too. We have three foreign players playing in it. Three! How on earth will our players get used to playing this new globalised version of football if they only ever play with the same 50 people. My suggestion is we copy something already being done across the globe and that is having an sort of super league during off peak sporting times, to allow professional and amateur international players to convene to play top flight football all year round, providing a clear benefit for us and them². At least think about it Sir."

by **Amnarei-asud** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 6:57 am

The dust was settling on the draw against Drawkland, and the team were on the bus. Drawing the curtain across the partition that separated the rear of the coach from the driver's section, Aslan Sato descended from the steps and went to fetch The Hood. He didn't always travel on the coach with the rest of the team, but when the driver needed darkness to drive through the night an the coach was equipped with a curtain, it was certainly possible, and saved The Hood the trouble of avoiding questions like "how did you get back so fast" when they were back at the hotel.

He'd barely got three steps across thee concourse however, when the familiarly pompous voice of Simeone Al-Owairan announced his presence behind one of the smaller, sleeker, minibuses.

"Sato, come here."

Sato sighed, and stopped in his tracks. He didn't really want to deal with this now, but was apparently not going to be afforded the luxury of choice.

"What was that?" accused Al-Owairan.

"That," said Sato pointedly, "was your boy almost messing up top spot for us in the group."

"What does top spot matter, really?"

"It secured us a tie against Verceola rather than Ndaku, for a start. Saab rescued us, Al-Owairan. The Hood did the right thing in persuading me to take your lad off. He was ruining things for us."

Affronted, Al-Owairan took a breath and raised his finger up ready to start jabbing, "that-"

"-is the truth!" interrupted Sato, "We have to do what's right for the team, for the country! Not just bow down to a man in a cheap white suit."

"It's really expensive, actually."

"Doesn't look it." snapped Sato.

"Well, well, well," smiled Al-Owairan, recovering from this unexpected onslaught from Sato to smile his usual evil smile once again, "look who grew a backbone! Shame you're using it on the wrong person, Sato. Remember what I said?"

"We played Boulos, you saw. He got his moment, and he fluffed his lines. What else do you want me to do?"

"He's just nervous, is all," smirked Al-Owairan, "he's the star for Atlas, Sato, the star. He runs the show! It must just be the international stage. So eager is he to please, that he runs around a little too much, tries a little too hard. If anything, he hits the ball too well."

"He hits the ball too well? What the hell does that even mean?" exclaimed Sato.

"Well, it-"

"-doesn't matter," interrupted Sato, "he got his chance, and right now we don't need somebody who is still learning how to control their emotions on the pitch. We need a cool head. We're in the knockout stages, now. We can't afford time or chance to blood up youngsters."

"Nonsense," leered Al-Owairan, "so he didn't have the best game against Drawkland, who cares? He'll rise to the occasion next time. Start him against Verceola."

"No." replied Sato, stubbornly.

"My offer still stands, you know," said Al-Owaiwan, slowly, suggestively twirling his Atlas keyfob around his fingers as he did so.

"No, it doesn't!" said a voice from behind them. They both turned in shock.

Striding purposefully towards the pair of them, accompanied by four paramilitaries, was Kerim Al-Tanaka, the head of the FAAa.

"Kerim?" exclaimed Al-Owairan, "I thought you were still in the Glorious Emirate?"

"I was," said Kerim, reaching the pair of them and pausing, "until my attention was brought to a little situation concerning the Fennecs that I was forced to come and deal with."

"Oh?" said Sato, smiling, noticing a certain cloaked figure lurking quietly behind the paramilitaries, almost out of sight.

"Yes," said Al-Tanaka, "which was quite annoying, seeing as I have plenty of work to be getting on with back home. I certainly wasn't expected to be asked to come out to Mercedini to have a chat with the owner of a domestic football team."

"Well, go home, then!" smiled Al-Owairan, looking like butter wouldn't melt, "we're fine, here! Honestly, me and your man Aslan here were just discussing the finer points of Usama Boulos' performance just now. He was unfortunate, wouldn't you say?"

"He's certainly unfortunate to be under your payroll," said Al-Tanaka flatly.

"And anyway," continued Al-Owairan, ignoring this comment, "you could have just called me if you wanted to talk about my players, couldn't you?"

"Oh, no no," said Al-Tanaka, gesturing to his paramilitaries, "I think coming out here was entirely necessary. Can't be taking any chances with the first foreign outing for the national football team, can we, Aslan? Not with with the President Sheikh following progress and developments closely from Ain Salah."

"Erm, no, obviously not." agreed Sato.

"So, you see, Simeone, the personal touch is to be encouraged, I think."

Al-Owairan sized up the head of the FAAa, pursed his lips, and then looked at Sato, "do you not think you're taking a risk letting some man we can't even see have overall command of decisions?"

"Calculated risk," replied Al-Tanaka quickly, "leave the decisions up to Sato and The Hood, Simeone."

"I am, I am!" protested Al-Owairan, "I was merely making a few, suggestions as to the availability of certain players if it transpires they aren't going to be playing for the national team."

"So you are threatening to pull the Atlas players from the squad?" confirmed Al-Tanaka.

"Well, not in so many words," wormed Al-Owairan, "just, if Boulos isn't going to be playing then he might as well be back home, preparing for the international club season with Atlas. And if he's going to be at home doing that, then the rest of the team should probably be there as well. Can't have him practising on his own, can we? The team need to be learning together, as a unit. Can't have this fractured development going on, you see, Kerim, it's about togetherness."

"Precisely why they should all be here training with the national side," responded Al-Tanaka curtly, "you're doing this with your business interests in mind, Simeone, and we won't stand for it."

"It's not about money," lied Al-Owairan, "it's about preparing Atlas for the international scene. We don't want them embarrassed, do we?"

"You don't want them embarrassed," corrected Al-Tanaka, "I assure you the President Sheikh is far more concerned with the performance of the national team."

"Well, then far better that the Atlas players are all here, then!" said Al-Owairan, raising his voice, "which means, starting Boulos!"

"Which means, you don't interfere and get back on your minibus!" shouted Al-Tanaka back.

"Oh, I don't think so," said Al-Owairan calmly, waving his hand over his shoulder.

Four paramilitaries, just as armed as the four behind Al-Tanaka, softly got off the minibus behind Al-Owairan and stood calmly holding their weapons.

"Oh, Simeone," said Al-Tanaka, gesturing at his own guard, "is this really the way you want it to go? An all-Asud shoot out in the car park of a foreign football stadium, surrounded by foreign fans and television crews, all here to film it?"

"It remains on the table," threatened Al-Owairan.

"No, it doesn't," said Al-Tanaka firmly, "listen, do you know what I should be doing, whilst I'm here? Do you know what paperwork is sitting on my desk right now, back home? Do you know what I should be doing, before I was interrupted and asked to come here and defuse a club vs country row?"

Al-Owairan stared blankly, awaiting the denouement with trepidation for the first time.

"It's a little bit of paperwork that was sent to me from Commerce Heights. It has a Takilquip star at the top. Something about the Champions Cup? An entry form or something, I think." said Al-Tanaka, trailing off threateningly.

"What are you saying?" asked Al-Owairan quickly.

"I'm saying that for all the time I'm here, Simeone, where I don't want to be until the Fennecs reach the final, I can't be at home, filling out the paperwork and rubber-stamping the diplomatic visas that will allow you and your team to join international competition and enter the Champions Cup for the first time. Sure, I could take the paperwork with me, but I'm deliberately choosing not to."

Al-Owairan narrowed his eyes at Al-Tanaka, realising the implication.

"Much better to send these things off with an Ain Salah postmark, don't you think?" continued Al-Tanaka, "What with it being the first time, and all that? Probably better to do things with a bit of pomp and circumstance. Do it properly. So, for all the time I'm asked to be here, that paperwork isn't getting done. Which would leave you with a team of players who aren't in the national team, and aren't in international competition, would it? Simeone?"

Al-Owairan continued to say nothing.

"And, all that hard work you've done laying the groundwork for a successful foray into international commercial deals would be wasted, wouldn't it? You might have financial clout and a winning team behind you, but you do still actually need the FAAa to ratify these things. If I don't snap my fingers, the Ministry for the Interior will never start working on those international border legislations. You can't just walk in and out of the Glorious Emirate, you know. You need a government organisation behind you. And that means paperwork. Paperwork I can't be doing all the time I'm here fighting fires you've deliberately started! Oh, sure, you might still be the best side in Amnarei-asud, but..."

"Okay, okay," said Al-Owairan, at last, "you've made your point. Back on the bus, boys."

Aslan Sato smiled a relieved smile.

"The Hood has me on speed dial, Simeone," threatened Al-Tanaka, jabbing a finger at Al-Owairan, "this is important for Asud football. Both the Fennecs and Atlas. Don't mess it up for both of them for insisting your pocket comes before either of them."

Al-Owairan started walking back towards his bus, aware that he was beaten. For now.

"Simeone," called Al-Tanaka, just as Al-Owairan was about to walk up the step and close the door behind him, "don't make me come back out here. Because I will. Don't think I won't."

The door slammed shut, and the bus drove off quickly, causing the six men still on the tarmac to skitter out of the way to get out of the way of the passive aggressive driving.

"Thanks, Kerim," said Sato, when the noise of the retreating exhaust had died down.

"No problem," said Al-Tanaka wearily, "though, I hope he does back down. I don't think I have the energy for another showdown like that."

"It's fine," said Sato, "Simeone is a bully used to getting his own way. Only child with a rich dad. He knows what's good for him, though. I doubt he'll call your bluff, now."

"Well, let's hope not," said Al-Tanaka, dusting himself down and straightening his robes. "listen, I really do actually need to head straight back to the airport, so, you guys okay? Got everything you need to prepare? You're doing a great job so far."

"Yeah, I think so. We're going okay," said Sato, preparing to leave, "right, Hood?"

He looked behind the paramilitaries for The Hood's lurking shadow, but he wasn't there.

"Hood?"

But The Hood was already on the coach, impatiently waiting to make a start on preparations for the knockout stages. Onwards and upwards for the Asud. Onwards and upwards for The Hood, and his ultimate goal.

by **Cosneolta** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 9:54 am

Cosneolta Sports Rarely
Baptism of Fire MD3: Rebuild The Wall vs. Cosneolta LIVE
@ St. Leah's Ground - Spittalsea, Bonesea

Hello and Welcome to our live coverage of Cosneolta's final group game against Rebuild The Ball. There's plenty at stake in these final matches as Cosneolta and Kinzenland in the other match will be fighting it out for the final spot in the knockout rounds. Today, Cosneolta play Rebuild The Wall who have already qualified for the knockout rounds but will hold onto their top spot if they avoid defeat today, Cosneolta will only need a point to secure their place in the knockout rounds, so there will plenty to keep an eye out for in this match. Coming off their 3-0 win against Divadland, Cosneolta have named an unchanged side with three upfront for a more attacking role. We hope that Cosneolta can put the pain of the Global Cup of Soccer behind them and qualify for the Baptism of Fire knockout rounds, remember any points that they achieve here will go to their ranking for the World Cup so any reward here will do nicely.

0' - The teams have finished the national anthems and now the crowds are ready for kick off! Cosneolta will kick off their final match of the group stage in their flashy blue and white kits, which has garnered the attention of many of the fans here in Bonesea. The star-man Bartosz is ready to kick of the match while the players from Rebuild The Wall wait patiently in their traditional red, white and blue kits. The crowds are ready, Bartosz has passed the ball to his teammate and MD3 is underway at the Baptism of Fire.

6' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - Only 6 minutes gone in this match and both teams seem to be showing their quality in this match. Rebuild The Wall with the opening pressure but Cosneolta forming their own set of chances as well as withstanding the pressure from RTW. Malinowski with a fizzing cross which shot across the face of goal but no strikers could make contact with the ball. Still 0-0, although this game has the potential of many goals in it.

13' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - A massive chance for Rebuild The Wall to take the lead with their rather unorthodox formation. Simon Swift broke away from his defensive lines and with some support, was put through on goal. Swift tried to get the ball away from the defenders and took a shot on the edge of the box a large deflection took the ball away from the diving goalkeeper but the ball fell onto the post and away for a corner. Rebuild The Wall are threatening, but the match is still 0-0 with both teams safely through as it stands.

22' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - The game is flowing nicely at the moment, with both teams taking their time to force the initiative but both teams are staying relatively astute defensively. Rebuild The Wall obviously have the edge defensively thanks to their wacky formation, on the other hand, Cosneolta have the edge attacking wise due to their willingness to put men forward. As of now, Cosneolta have the ball in the RTW half but obviously they will have to break down the wall of men between themselves and the goal. 0-0.

30' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - Half an hour gone and Cosneolta have the ball in the net but it's been ruled out for offside! Cosneolta finally broke through the line of men with a ball over the top from Metodi Kijek. Bartosz controlled the ball well and simply slotted the ball home from 5 yards out but the linesman held his flag up to rule out the goal. The Cosneoltan fans have been brought back down to Earth with a bang but they know that they can break down RTW's defences. Still 0-0, although this match is a lot more open.

38' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - For a 0-0 draw this is an intriguing game with both managers employing tactics to outfox their opponent. Remember, Rebuild The Wall have already qualified so the pressure is off them for now, although they need to avoid a defeat against Cosneolta to keep their grasp at the top. Cosneota can see the prize ahead of them but they need to get there before their hopes and dreams have been realised. News hasn't come through yet about the other match but we here it's very close between the two teams with is good news for us, but here is Spittalsea it remains goalless but I expect at least one goal before the end of the game.

43' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - Right at the very end of the half and Rebuild The Wall have the best chance of the game, so far. The Cosneoltan players were dozing at the back and were caught in possession by the RTW defenders who has moved forward. Thomas Walker was one-on-one with the goalkeeper and only needed to guide the ball past the goalie but his scuffed shot went well wide of the mark. The Cosneoltan fans are jeering him for that miss, that was terrible. What a way to end what has been an entertaining half thus far!

45+2' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - The referee blows his whistle for the end of the first half and the players walk off the pitch to mild applause after an entertaining half with twists and turns and plenty of guilt-edge chances that weren't taken. Both managers will be having long conversations over their performances but both teams would qualify for the knockout rounds regardless of the result of the other match should the result in this match stay the same. At the end of the first half it's Rebuild The Wall 0, Cosneolta 0.

HALF TIME
Rebuild The Wall 0 - 0 Cosneolta

After a fairly entertaining first half here in Bonesea. The fans have had their half-time refreshments, I've been handed the wonderful Courgetti Salad from the vegan Boney buffet and the teams are back out for the second half. Plenty of anticipation for the second half from both sets of fans as a lot is riding on the result of this match. Both teams are unbeaten in the tournament thus far, so let's see if that continues in the next 45 minutes. Second half is starting now!

53' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - The Manager's orders must be working as the match has opened up severely since the start of the second half. The defensive line of RTW has moved forwards, meaning gaps can now be exploited by the Cosneoltans, however RTW now have their own space to move into, so it should be interesting to see how the game progresses. It's currently 0-0, there surely must be a goal in the match somewhere!

59' - (RTW 0-0 CSN) - GOALL!! The match finally gets the goal it so desperately craved and it's Rebuild The Wall who could've potentially thrown a spanner in the works for Cosneolta as they've gone 1-0 up just before the hour mark. It's Stephen Quick with the goal, and like his name suggests, he was too quick for the Cosneoltan defence as he zipped forward from the midfield. A quick one-two and he was put through on goal and a flashy finish gave RTW the lead. The fans are celebrating on their side of the stadium and it's 1-0 to Rebuild The Wall! Cosneolta have work to do.

67' - (RTW 1-0 CSN) - Cosneolta looked to have woken up since that goal and are threatening and pressing hard for the first time in the game. Their opposition seem to have reverted back to their 10-0-0 formation to see the game out but that hasn't stopped the team in turquoise and white from forging chances from their situation. Plenty of time left in the game for Cosneolta to get the equaliser, still 1-0 to RTW.

77' - (RTW 1-0 CSN) - Cosneolta are being punched for time in this match and the shots are getting desperate. The manager is frantically waving about like a madman for his players to move forward and attack the 'great wall' of men between them and the equaliser. The three strikers have been unable to get the ball close enough to take a shot. Time is seriously running out for the Cosneoltans and news unclear in the other game, it would be best if we had out destiny in our own hands.

85' - (RTW 1-0 CSN) - My goodness, we've done it! GOAL!!! It's Dominik Bartosz with the equalising goal to give Cosneolta one foot into the knockout rounds. It may have been a scrappy goal put they all count and its something for Cosneolta to hold on to. The goal came from a corner that was whipped in with pace, a flick on from the near post was parried onto the opposite post and the ball fell to Bartosz who tapped the ball into the open goal to make it 1-1. Jubilation from the fans on the opposite side of the stadium, they've pinched a point at the death to make it 1-1

90+2' - (RTW 1-1 CSN) - The referee blows his whistle for the end of the match, and that's it! Cosneolta made us sweat but we've made it through eventually, we finally have the news that Kinzenland lost their final match against Divadland 1-0, which means Cosneolta would've made it through regardless of the result here today. Cosneolta have picked up another point which will undoubtedly help their campaign for World Cup supremacy. It's finished in Spittalsea, a goal a piece.

FULL TIME
Rebuild The Wall 1 - 1 Cosneolta
Quick 59' | Bartosz 85'

With that final draw in the group, Cosneolta secure their second spot in the group which will mean they play one of the group winners in Nordernious. Many pundits across the multiverse have labelled it the closest match at the Round of 16 stage, but I'm sure the players will be training throughout the week for what will be a juggernaut fixture at the Baptism of Fire. From Spittalsea in Bonesea, goodnight!

by **Nordernious** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 12:50 pm

Der Siegfrieder

An Interview with Rule Theriault

Der Siegfrieder: Mr. Theriault, thank you for joining us again. Let's start with the last match against The Mercenary Islands. What were you thinking when Kevin Freytag's backward pass found the back of the net?

Rule Theriault: Well, I wasn't happy about it but that's the way things go sometimes. [Kickball] is a game where anything can happen at any time, so you always have to expect the unexpected.

Many were amazed when you didn't pull either Freytag or Jürgen Wolf after that debacle? Why did you elect to keep both of them in the match?

I'm not going to pull players every time they make a small mistake. Instead, I just had a chat with them during halftime.

I imagine that can't have gone well for them. What was it like to be down a goal at the half?

It wasn't where I wanted us to be, but we'd had the better of the first half anyway and I had confidence in my team's ability to score goals in the second half.

Lucas Abendroft's goal had to be one of the most spectacular that we've ever seen. Why did he take a shot from that angle?

You'll have to ask him. I wasn't thrilled when he took such a low-percentage shot but when the ball reached the back of the net, I couldn't complain. At that point, I knew we weren't going to lose the match.

Was it at all worrying that you couldn't just rely on System Preservation to hold onto a lead?

I have the utmost confidence in the ability of my team to play attacking [kickball] when they need to. In fact, that's why I had no issues bringing in Sven [Ackermann] and Dennis [Hertz], even at the expense of our defense.

If the match had gone the other way, many would have undoubtedly questioned your decision. Did you ever have any second thoughts about making that move?

Absolutely not. I felt that bringing in those extra attackers gave us the best chance to win and I have the utmost confidence in the ability of my defense to hold.

Those moves certainly paid off when Hertz scored that 87th minute goal to put Nordernious in the lead.

I think its great to have 3 strikers as young, talented and energetic as our trio of strikers. Honestly, I'd love to start all of them but we want to win, not rack up style points.

Speaking of winning, just yesterday your brother Pierre locked up the nomination of the Responsible Progress Party for Consul of the Free Republics. What are your thoughts regarding his candidacy?

While, of course, I support my brother in everything he does, I'm not a politician and I'm not going to be making political comments. In the Free Republics, we have a tradition of putting our political disputes aside at the border and I'm going to stick to that tradition out of respect to my nation.

Then, I assume, you don't have any thoughts about the Nordernian elections that you wish to share with us.

I'm not going to comment on Nordernian politics. I'm here to manage a [kickball] team, not get involved in your nation's internal affairs. I do, however, admire the civility and the atmosphere of pragmatism and mutual respect that I've seen in my time here. Its remarkable that Nordernians may vote for different candidates, but the overwhelming majority agree on a common set of facts and a shared national purpose.

One of the things that has long puzzled us about Republican politics is how you can keep your nation together when your political system is so polarized and often comes across as angry at the rest of the multiverse.

Can we talk about a different subject? The state of my nation, in recent years, is honestly quite depressing and I regret contributing to that, to whatever extent I may have done so.

Moving on to the current state of Saintland, do you have any idea why the island nation has suddenly become sealed off from the rest of the multiverse?

I'm just as mystified about that as everybody else. Lucius Caeparius, whom you may know as a WCC-accredited referee, told me that he has lost contact with his wife and children. Even the Sanctii arena football team has lost contact with their friends and families from back home.

I guess nobody knows what is going on in Saintland at the moment, but I guess we'll have to wait to find out. Looking ahead to the Round of 16, what are you thoughts on Cosneolta?

Cosneolta are probably the best team we've played so far and we are taking them seriously as we prepare for the match. They're much more attack-minded than we are, even if the statistics don't show it, so we probably need to get an early lead and force them to play our match.

Thank you for joining us, Mr. Theriault. We look forward to talking with you again, in the future.

by **Rebuild the Wall** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 12:55 pm

Rebuild the Wall Settles for Draw With Cosneolta
Late goal prevents clean sheeting the group

After 265 minutes an opponent finally cracked the defenses of Rebuild the Wall as Cosneolta’s Dominik Bartosz found a corner that we’d inadequately failed to clear at his feet and smashed it into the open side of the net before John Stoneman had time to react. Fortunately Rebuild the Wall had scored in the 59th minute when Steven Quick got free on a counterattack and beat Leonas Ozolinsh to his left.

With both teams needing only a point to secure their primary objective for the match, the match was a cagy affair with both teams not wanting to make a mistake to cost them the point they needed. It was also beneficial to both teams that nobody was injured or carded on this day.

The draw means that Rebuild the Wall secured the top spot in Group E and will be matched against Nagore, who finished 2nd in Group H with a 1-1-1 record in the Round of 16. The match will provide an interesting contrast in styles, as Nagore plays attacking soccer though their strikers have had problems finishing in the Baptism of Fire, as they only managed 5 goals in their 3 group matches. The effect of our defensive style of play was obvious as during group play we were level with Cosneolta for the fewest goals conceded in a group that totaled only 8 goals amongst the 4 teams. 4 other teams by themselves scored more goals than our entire group did.

by **Mriin** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 1:21 pm

Following his spectacular goal, it was clear that Harnan was in no state to continue playing. Don quickly called time to get him off the field, briefly explaining to the still-bewildered referee and other players that Harnan must have overexerted himself in an ultimately stupid way and gotten himself hurt. The man in question was in no state to talk about what happened as the team physio loaded him onto the stretcher and hauled him off to the sidelines; Don called for Gerard to replace him, and a more normal game of football resumed. Well, not quite normal--it seemed the strange happenings had shaken the Kosovakian players, as they rarely ventured forward and only managed one more shot on goal for the remainder of the game.

Just after the end of the game--Solara had managed an insurance goal to secure the win--Mohn took to the backroom the physio was poking Harnan in. While everyone had gotten an eyeful of Harnan's drive, Mohn was the one who'd been in the closest proximity to him. It was a little weird in the moment, having a defender charging up through the field like that, but he'd played along and left a soft little pass for him to take up; but when Harnan ran past, just a stride away, he was hit by an... unnatural heat. Like someone had opened an overheated oven right in his face. Except... it also sent a shiver down his spine.

"So, doc... you got any idea why any of that happened?"

The physio perked up, but didn't turn around. "Oh, Mohn! What a surprise, I didn't hear the door open. But no, I've not come to any conclusions yet; I've simply been treating the after effects of Harnan's ordeal. He messed his knee up real bad, and his neck is extremely stiff for some reason. He may be sidelined for a fair while." He was massaging Harnan's back, who seemed to be completely out cold on the table.

"I gotta tell you, there was something... really wrong about what happened out there. When he ran by me, it was like a fireball just blazed past. Like, literally. I've never felt the lick of demonfire before, but I'm scared to think that might not have been too far off from it."

With that, the physio turned around and leveled an incredulous glare at Mohn. "Demonfire? Really? You think Harnan, of all people, figured out how to bottle demonfire?"

Mohn took a step back and shrugged. "I don't know, man! I don't think Harnan could do that, either--or would, for that matter. He's always been into the potions for the fun of it, but... I know what I felt, and it wasn't natural. Something got into him, somehow."

A deep rumble sounded from a dark corner of the room. "Are you feeling well, Mohn?"

Both the satyrs snapped their heads to the source of the sound. "Oh! Uh, hey, Don. Uh... yeah, I've been feeling fine. How long have you been here?"

"...how quiet is that door?", muttered the physio to himself.

"Long enough. And I can assure you, Harnan just felt the need to prove himself after I told him off for his horrendous first half. And that goal was impressive, but not worth throwing his own health away like that. But, speaking of health, I am somewhat worried for you--that's a very strange thing you experienced out there, and not something that should ever happen on a football field. Have you been getting enough sleep? Have you eaten any strange plants lately?"

"I--I'm not hallucinating! I felt something strange in Harnan, and that's why he's so messed up right now. This isn't something we can just ignore!"

"Whatever it is, Mohn, it's over now. Even if your ridiculous assertion that it's demonfire, that gets purged from the system within fifteen minutes. Harnan would have to have one hell of a supplier to get more of it shipped out to Mercidini and through customs."

"...okay, I guess I'll... just keep playing, for now. But I'm not comfortable with any sort of heavy shit like that, so if I feel that again I'm getting away from it as fast as I can."

"Hmm... I think it may be best for you to go on mental health leave, Mohn. Even if you weren't imagining this, you're very clearly rattled--I'll cover a trip and a stay at a Prei resort. Just take some time to yourself and relax. How does that sound?"

"...uh... I guess I can do that. You think the team will do without me?"

"Aye, we'll make do. Besides, Troma's gaffer has been bugging me to get Kalia some playing time. He swears she's going to be the next big star when the Outlanders get to play in the Primary Division next season."

by **Verceola** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 1:24 pm

The Snifter

What you need to know for work Monday morning

A colorful government shutdown? Crooked football bettors? The racy new art exhibit in Hallander? It's been a crazy past few days, but don't worry, we'll get you all caught up for the water cooler discussion.

Many government agencies closed for day due to invasive pink foam

Federal Investigation Agency representatives are looking for suspects on charges of obstruction of justice, impeding government business, and disturbing the piece after many departments of the federal government were flooded with pink, bubbly foam coming through the vents and plumbing, resulting in evacuation and closure of several buildings.

Press Secretary Chace Oerter assured the nation that "all essential services were being kept running, even if in other locations". The pink foam appeared to be harmless and non-toxic, and no one was injured as a result of the incidents.

If anything, President Olke Krumm seemed make light of the situation. In between meetings, she was photographed smiling and blowing bubbles through a giant bubble wand. A statement released by the office that "all is well despite today's festive distraction".

Bulls football team loses to Ndaku, will play Amnarei-asud

Hopes were high for the Verceola football team to take a third win in the Baptism of Fire in Mercedini, but Ndaku took advantage of Peters' decision to rest most of his starters. Karen Harden (not a woman, apparently) scored three goals to lead Ndaku to a 4-2 victory.

Verceola had 1-0 and 2-1 leads; the scoring opened in the 11th minute as Gunnar Sash headed in a free kick taken by Karl Medin, and Dan Huntington scored in the 47th minute on a breakaway started by a leading pass from Michael Thomas. Backup goalie Andrew Skinner had six saves.

Verceola now plays Group C winners Amnarei-asud in the Round of 16, in Zholvi, Mercedini. Ndaku plays the much stronger Drawkland side, so arguably the victory is a blessing is a disguise. The Verceola/Amnarei-asud match will be broadcast on VBC at noon Central time.

Danger musician dies after vending machine injuries

Frank Ford, composer and noted performer of danger music, has passed away at Rikl Regional Hospital from internal injuries suffered after being crushed by a vending machine in a freak unplanned accident. He was 52.

Ford was renowned for his thrilling, terrifying street performances. In one such exhibit, he hung by his wrists from a traffic light pole for six hours while yodeling folk tunes. He memorably performed his piece "War Crimes" at Skladdul Hall, in which he played several instruments, including the inside of a piano and a drum set, with only his face and his penis.

Fans are simultaneously mourning the loss of this cult hero while shaking their heads of the irony of such a seemingly innocuous cause of death. Visit our Obituary section to share your thoughts.

World has assumed Verceola will lose badly in BoF; Internet users and gamblers respond

All the teams in the Baptism of Fire have never played World Cup matches before, so arguably, they are all at about the same level of play. However, many world media sources would think differently. Many news outlets, despite featuring no other coverage of the Baptism of Fire besides their own nation, have boldly proclaimed that Verceola has "no chance...to qualify" and that the match, as so eloquently stated, "is gonna be a blowout".

Naturally, Internet users in Verceola have derided this certainty of predictions. Memes have been circulating on blogging network WebRoam, with references to poorly regarded daytime comedy Fast and Fresh, former MP's David Chamberlain's premature victory speech made before his loss to Ryne Tayler, and many more; a full collection can be found here.

Gamblers have also tried to affect the outcome of the match, given that bookies have similarly placed heavy odds on an Amnarei-asud rout. Three men from Luton were arrested in Zholvi for trying to bribe players on Amnarei-asud match to throw the match or shave goals. Meanwhile, starting keeper Jared Thompson revealed that he was mysteriously called and told to give up goals intentionally to allow Amnarei-asud to cover the 2.5-goal spread; federal resources are investigating.

Ultimately, this all demonstrates one message: sports are better settled on the field, and everyone else would be best served taking care of their own business.

Hallander museum temporarily closed after sex exhibit controversy

The Hallander Contemporary Arts Museum announced that it would be closing for the day for "safety reasons" after large crowds came to protest outside the museum. The protests were in response to a new exhibit, "The Art of Sex", featuring graphic paintings, sculptures, and multimedia works depicting sexual scenes. The Family Values Organization, who led the protests, took particular issue with works of art showing interspecies sex scenes.

There are currently no restrictions on public artistic and musical expression, and the Yelten vs. Vana Beach State case set the precedent that non-sexual nudity is permissible for public display. That case does not directly apply due to the sexual nature of the artwork and because the Museum is a private institution which does not receive government funding. Modern Arts Commission spokesman Leona Hrivcek defended the exhibit, saying, "Art isn't always beautiful and pristine. It can shock, assault the eyes, confuse the mind. But our organization stands for the appreciation of all art, without judgments of value or prestige."

Let us know what you think about the controversy in our Feedback section!

by **Mercedini** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 1:43 pm

CUTOFF
Mercedinian Half: Round of 16

This is your Round of 16 cutoff. If you are eliminated at this stage, take solice in your amazing achieve achievement and know that you're not alone.

What's happening in Mercedini?

Parla Mercedinia? Take a Mercedinian class or two to get to know the lingo of the locals.
Zoloroni & Langtree were basking in the warm sun today, don't forget to take a hat and some sunglasses on your trip out!
Today is National Risotto Day, enjoy your favourite dishes in this festival of joy and food!

Mriin 2-1 Juvencus
@ FLR Stadium, Langtree

Ndaku 2–3 Drawkland
@ Snowflake Stadium, Zoloroni

Amnarei-asud 2-0 Verceola
@ ezMART Stadium, Zholvi

Coldfield 2-0 Kosovakia
@ Arèna di Carvi, Carvi

Quarter-Finals

Mriin vs. Drawkland
@ Partush Arena, Orga

Amnarei-asud vs. Coldfield
@ Coma Tudo Stadium, Acoflosa

by **Bonesea** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 3:13 pm

Round of Sixteen Results
Bonesea

What's happening in Bonesea?

It's the Bonesea Armada Review: the flagship offensive frigate ASL Spittalsea will lead the review; the General Public can get a good look around the docks on Wharfside, and a chance to explore the storied Bonesea Barque HMS Custom of The Sea.
Hoping to capitalise on the flood of new talent to the country, top Bonesligg team SS Skiveness are holding open trials for visiting footballers. Who will slip out of training camp for a quick kickabout with coaches de Escobar & de Valle, in the hope of winning a contract?
The psych-ward at the Spittalsea Infirmary is full as despairing fans check in with self-fulfilling psychological disadvantagement syndrome.

Rebuild the Wall 2-1 Nagore
@ St. Leah's Ground, Spittalsea;
referee - Kasey Jones (Bonesea)

Abristan 2-2 Great Caledonia and North Hybernia (2-2 AET) (0-3 pens.)
@ Turbine Field, Gallowsea;
referee - Joanna Brunet (Nephara)

Hernton 2-3 EEC
@ Driftwood Park, Skiveness;
referee - Jennifer de Montana (The Redvale)

Nordernious 1-0 Cosneolta
@ Viking Park, Tananger;
referee - Assunção dos Santos (North Carcossia and the Hesperides)

Quarterfinals - Bonesea

Rebuild the Wall vs. Great Caledonia and North Hybernia
@ Turbine Field, Gallowsea

EEC vs. Nordernious
@ The Boldpark, Spittalsea

by **Rebuild the Wall** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 6:29 pm

Nathan Jones sat uncomfortably at the microphone following Rebuild the Wall’s 2-1 Round of 16 victory over Nagore in his suit. It wasn’t the suit that had him uncomfortable however, it was the events of the match that he had to explain that made him both hero and villain. On big screens on both sides of the platform highlights of the match played on a loop.

A Bonesea reporter raised her hand to ask the first question. “How do you feel about leading your team to victory in your first action of the Baptism of Fire?”

Jones sighed in momentary relief. “It is a great honor to represent my country and to make a difference in the match.”

A Nagore reporter chimed in, “Speaking of making a difference, how do you think your sending off made a difference in the match?”

With a slight wince, Jones replied, “Fortunately we had to play a man down for about 10 minutes. It was an unfortunate accident and I’ve already apologized to referee Kasey Jones for what occurred on the pitch.”

Cynthia White raised her hand and requested, “Explain what happened on the second goal.”

The grimace on Jones’ face was obvious. “Robert had made a brilliant cross to me in the box when I heard a whistle, which evidently was from a fan who snuck a whistle into the stadium. Thinking I had been called offsides, I lost my head for a minute and turned to kick the ball at the referee and she moved to get out of the way, thinking I was passing the ball past her to Carl who was creeping in towards the near post. The ball bounced off her knee and in. My momentum carried me in her direction and I pumped my fist in celebration when I realized I’d scored again, but unfortunately the ref’s jaw got in the way of the completion of my fist pump. I have no complaints about the fact that she sent me off immediately. I deserved it.”

The Bonesea reporter spoke up. “You said you spoke with referee Kasey Jones after the match,” after Nathan Jones nodded to confirm the fact she continued, “What was her reaction and what was said?”

“She was tough, but as gracious as could be expected under the circumstances. I explained my side of the story and apologized for my actions. She accepted the apology and explained why she had moved out of the way and that she understood my frustration over the whistle in the stands. The fan had the whistle confiscated and was expelled from the stadium, she told me. We shook hands and moved on.”

White got the last question, “Is there any further disciplinary action expected against you beyond the standard one match ban?”

“The referee told me after I explained that she would not recommend further discipline, though she couldn’t promise anything.”

Then it was Manager Martin Stone’s turn to face the reporters. “Describe what it feels like to advance to the Quarterfinals of the Baptism of Fire.”

“It was a tough match, but it feels great to keep winning and representing our nation so respectably.”

The Nagore reporter raised his hand. “How do you feel about today’s match and in particular the sending off of Nathan Jones, who scored both of your goals.”

“Your nation has nothing to hang their heads about. They played a great match and should be very respectable in the coming World Cup. Louis Conway has the potential to be a very good striker on the international level, and demonstrated it with a great move to score your goal in the 1st half. We were fortunate to come out on top today. Nathan was outstanding off the bench for us. The incident after his second goal with the referee was unfortunate, but he deserved his sending off. I’ve had words with him about the incident and he’ll learn from his mistake and be a better player for it.”

White then got the manager’s attention, “How did the steady rain affect the match?”

“It neutralized both teams’ speed to a degree with the slippery conditions on the pitch. Fortunately it didn’t turn into a downpour or we might still be out there.”

White got another question as the other reporters seemed content, “What do you expect from the Quarterfinal match against Great Caledonia and North Hybernia?”

“They had a tough match today against Abristan, with the match going to penalties. Hopefully that will have them a bit more tired than we are. I haven’t had time to scout them thoroughly yet, but the sense I get is they play a possession-style of soccer. It should be a tough, low-scoring affair that we’ll hopefully come out on top of.”

Rebuild the Wall 2, Nagore 1

Jones (76,81) Conway (38)

YC: Withers (59 late tackle)
RC: Jones (81 punching the ref)

by **EEC** » Sun Jan 22, 2017 7:46 pm

THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUES!

The nail-biting 3-2 victory over Hernton left EEC head coach “Almost needing a new pair of pants”, the match with endless drama left fans amazed as EEC and Hernton leap-frogged on the scoreboard, only for EEC to snatch the win in the late moments of the game, questions still float whether EEC could go all the way.

After the scoreless snooze fest against the Andromeda Archipelago, EEC reverted to their old tactics of a balanced 4-3-3 against Hernton's 3-5-3.

As the match went on, things looked bleak for EEC at the start as Hernton's midfield heavy formation allowed them to man-mark Father Constantine the Eager very easily, choking out most of EEC's build up plays.

Fears would pile on as a three of Hernton's strikers, Owain Belling, Bjorn Stel and Astin Stel walked through the EEC back line with one touch passes to each other and was finalised as a product when it was blasted to the net by Owain Belling in the 9th minute.

Following the early concession, EEC's Father Constantine moved further back in-order to avoid marking and to bolster the defending effort. This minor change would soon to prove successful as another similarly planned and played out attack by Henton would breakdown, leaving EEC on the counter-attack, Evan Baldwin was then handed the opportunity the run the whole field due to Hernton having all but one of their defenders join the attack, with Celyn Jenkins coming forwards too early and too far to close down, Baldwin lobbed it over the goalkeeper to score in the 14th minute as a quick reply.

The 1st half would then continue to go on as a struggle between the two teams as both of their attacking efforts would break-down quickly before either of them could reach the box as EEC's 4 man back line would easily crowd outside the box and Hernton's 5 men mid-fielders could easily choke out attacks that weren't on the break.

This would change in the 39th minute as Jakob Pound's bad tackle against Arthwr Yale would give Hernton the chance the score the goal need as well as put Jakob Pound on thin ice with his booking. With Bjorn Stel taking the free kick, it was well placed in the top left corner just out of reach of Philander Kynaston.

With a goal behind, EEC made minor changes for the second half. None formation wise as the 4-3-3 could still be seen in a birds-eye perspective but EEC needed to be on the attack more which lead to the fullbacks Merrick Frank and Kory Atwater going forward more often and acting as wingbacks. This tactic would be used on their kick-off on 2nd half, quickly flooding Hernton's side of the field with 5 men in the midfield, Kory Atwater made a run through the field to cross to the box, which was headed in by Evan Baldwin once again for his 5th goal in this cup.

Panicked by this early concession, Hernton played a more withdrawn and made an effort to keep more than 3 people in the box at all times, EEC seeing this as an opportunity to control the match, took it in their hands to go on full attack. This resulted on the EEC native Rickie Porcher get three shots but both were blasted above goal in all three attempts. During an 84th minute attempt to clear the ball, Celyn Jenkins opted for a low punt but this ball was quickly intercepted mid-air and was used as a goal scoring by Evan Baldwin, giving his 2nd hat trick during this tournament.

Air of confidence could be felt in the press conference but this time Rietveld was joined by the head of the sporting division Cosmo Jernigan. Jernigan was first to be asked questions, specifically the future of the players due to Bonesea's top-flight team, SS Skiveness holding trials for players that are in the tournament “We cannot stop players leaving the EEC but to those players in the squad who doesn't have a professional contract with a club, EEC will be expanding their efforts to continental and international club competitions in the coming days.” and the future of the EEC squad relating to the player's origin “Most of you know that EEC National Team is at an infancy stage, offering citizenships and contracts to world-class players will continue but, EEC will make efforts to improve the grassroots and youth development in the near future”, the focus then shifted to the joyous coach of the team, Rietveld. When asked what his thoughts on the team, he kept his happy tone “That was some real character that was shown on the pitch today, I am very proud of the boys to keep up and not giving up even when they were behind.” and when asked what he was thinking about the fixture against, he replied “Nordernious is a threatening team especially with their rock hard defence but character like this can win championships and I believe that we can go all the way as long as we keep this form and mentality”, Rietveld later added that if EEC makes the final, EEC Air will offer all flights to Bonesea on a 50% discount.

With only 3 games holding EEC from being in the finals, EEC has certainly has had an interesting campaign to show their debut, what will happen against Nordernious will determine if they can come home with a trophy or a medal.

by **Juvencus** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 10:20 am

Juven Campaign comes to an abrupt end!

Juven players clearly dissapointed after a 2-1 defeat.

The Juven campaign has finally come to an end. A defeat to the satyrs of Mriin with 2-1 just killed the hopes and dreams of Juvencus winning a major competition soon. With 2 early goals by a quite an offensive Mriin. Juvencus was unable to react for the rest of the game. Acting quite paralysed, especially in the midfield. Our only consolation, a Gallo shot from the 22 meter range, after a Vives pass.

The first half could be described as an utter nightmare for Juven players. With many passing errors in the backbone of the Juven team, the defence. A weak defence, not being able to stop the likes of Solara Vol and Aldo Volcani and their immense speed and technique early on. Both errors came from Adamo Brunetti, who was dissapointing and was subbed of early in the second half. He also a received a yellow card for going hard on Joren Krueger on the 38th minute. Luckily, Mriinese players were not able to capitalise on that opportunity due to a great save by Naldo Zappa. Whom, despite conceding two early goals, kept his box in tact for the rest of the game and could be Juvencus' man of the match. The only chance made by Juven players in the first half came from Amando Landi, a solid shot from the 31 meter range, it went wide after hitting the top post.

In the second half, Juvencus went a little bit more offensively. They improved most of their errors, as they sent Brunetti and Morani off. Subsititues Madeiros and Angioli were much more accurate, with 91% and 88% passing accuracy each. The playing of Juven players improved suddenly and Oriol Vives was able to pull off a chance, ending in the goalkeeper's hands. Vives then later was pulled back to the CAM position and Landi got substituted for Gallo, the consolation hero of Juvencus. Vives and Gallo were posing a massive threat on the Mriinese defence and Vives actually scored an offside goal that should've been counted though as he was clearly not in the back of any defender. Bad reffing kept Juvencus back as they pushed with 2 Gallo chances before finding the net at the 88th minute. Vives was 1on1 with 2 Mriinese defenders, he backheeled it back and Gallo shot it in, making the score 2-1. A defeat that brought tears to many Juven people.

August Toset, the team's coach, was quite happy about the campaign stating. "This is the first campaign these lads have pulled off. We did ok. We qualified for the round of 16 in a competitive group and I'm glad we've pulled all of this off. We've got a friendlies campaign to get through on in the near future. This is going to be another test for the team's World Cup Qualification stages. We might not be able to get on the World Cup, but if we're lucky enough, we might get an invitation for the Cup of Harmony to showcase our power with other, stronger nations."

"You did great lads. That was a great campaign. Don't be dissapointed, we'll earn our chances in the future. We've got several friendlies planned out with great powers of world football as well as World Cup Group qualification to look up to. Cheer up for now, you made an entire nation proud."
said Toset, proud of his squad, a little bit disappointed, but proud enough to say these words, like a father would normally say to his son, looking each and everyone of the players in the eye. He wasn't the only one pleased, the rest of the squad was too. They achieved a qualification from the group stages, it was a big deal for them.
The next day they would embark on their plane back home, to Juvencus, for some more training for their upcoming friendly games. They would be welcomed as heroes by their fans, for them, it was a pleasure to watch a crowd of 20,000 of your compatriots, cheering for the work you worked a lifetime for. But they had to focus. Vives told Grec "Hugo, psst,Hugo. It's nice that we're greeted as heroes and stuff, but I don't feel pleased enough. Should we get to training?"
"ALREADY? I mean, it's only been like an hour. Shouldn't we rest first?"
"We rested at the GODDANG plane!" shouted Vives, with fumes coming out of his ears
"Chill, Ori. We should go, yes. GUYS, let's go for training."
"Alright, ok." said the rest.
They headed towards the training grounds to train, it was a sunny day, kinda windy, the balls would change traction pretty easily on a strong shot or pass. Juvencus' main focus was counter offensive play, with very few, accurate passes. Defense wasn't much of an issue, it's a strong defence. But formation has changed, with 3 compact defenders, 4 midfielders, 2 of whom are defensive, to help the 3 backs, 2 sided midfielders, whose sole role was to provide with good passing, usually to the attacking midfielder or wingers, the first one was made to provide to the striker, so is one of the roles of the wingers, their other role was to score goals, much like the striker. But they are quite more free to it, using a whole side to their favour.
The whole ideology of the team's counter offensive play is simple. No passing back to the defenders. The ball flow must be at the sides, only pass it to the center in a real emergency. Sided midfielders are supposed to be the good passers, CDM's are the first line of defence, CAM is the actual midfielder here, since he's the provider of the assists, the wingers, as previously sttated can both provide and score, their free role also allows them to get back to the midfield in case sided midfielders are back in the defence for help. The striker should be a solid rock in his position, avoid offside and use his speed in order to score as many goals as possible in a short amount of time, giving Juvencus the victory.

Saint George's Basilica, Pomena

"The last Pope Urbanus IV, died on his sleep yesterday, peacefully letting himself to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Cardinals, we have to elect a new Pope, a spiritual leader for the hudreds of million of catholics in Sonnel. We need someone fair, with experience, willing to let his pleasure go for God as well as the believers. We shall elect a new pope through voting. All Cardinals are suitable for this position. Voting starts now. Do it for the love of God." said Cardinal Eustratius.
The voting process had started, favourite for the Papacy was Cardinal Jorge Mateus Princi, a fair man, the most active out of all Cardinals. Bishop of Serone. The rest of the cardinals had faith in him to get the next Papal position. And that's how it happened, white smoke emerged from the rooftop of the Cardinals' voting room, a small church by the name of "Virgin Mary of Pomena", the new pope was unsurprisingly Jorge Mateus Princi.
"You're the new Pope, Jorge. You're the leader of Catholicism, a leading figures for hudreds of millions of people. Use your power wisely, prove to the world that catholicism is a good part of Christianity. What shall your new name be?" said Cardinal Eustratius.
"That's a big honour. I'll use my position wisely. My new name from now on will be Pope Demetrius X."
"Excellent choice, as I see, people are already gathering up, you should talk to them."
Pope Demetrius headed outside, over there, a crowd of possibly 80,000 catholic believers of Jesus Christ had gathered up, waiting for him to speak.
"Welcome everybody. I'm Pope Demetrius X, your new Pope, as you may know Pope Urbanus IV died yesterday on his sleep. I've been elected to be his successor, I'll be the one bringing god's love to all of humanity. I promise I'll do my best as Pope to make you proud, but mostly, make Him, the Lord, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, proud of his work at the people. I wish well being to all of you in these harsh times. Always follow God's orders, He's an example for all of us. Last but not least, I'll be hosting a massive donation project for the poor and homeless, just a penny is enough to bring happiness to thousands of homeless Juven people. Thanks a lot."

by **Coldfield** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 11:43 am

A King among the plebs
Arèna de Carvi, Carvi

"Well done guys. Well done." Said a certain very happy King. Some days ago, the manager of Waterville refused to take charge of the national football team, and his majesty himself decided to take control of the Coldfieldian national pride after firing the politician Gabriel Lawson. "You all done very well. Now we'll face the hostile and xenophobic dictatorship of Amnarei-asud. I have sure we can win! WE WILL WIN!!!"

"WE WILL WIN!!!" Shouted the whole team - except the reserve goalkeeper, Lenny Lester.

"Why you didn't celebrate the victory, Lenny?" The King asked to Lester in front of everyone.

"Because we will not win - unless we attack with all our forces. Kosovakia nearly scored three goals! If wasn't Cockburn's headers, the history would have been different!"

"With all our forces?" The King asked, interested.

"Yeah! Put more than just one forward - put three, four, or even five! Let's try for once."

"I'm thinking on it..." Replied the King "It ain't a bad idea. I'll work on it." He ended the sentence after thinking for a few seconds.

01/23/2017
Exactly one day before the decisive match against the hostile and arid nation of Amnarei-asud the King developed the new game plan for the quarter-finals.

2-1-7:
GK David Green
CB Phil Cockburn
CB Gerhard Ewart
DM Keith Rodgers
DM Adam Harris
RW Gerald Klein
LW Steven Chamberlain
CM Ross Ferguson
CM Robert Simmons
ST Scott Lund
ST Nathaniel Balogh

Immediately upon seeing the plan, everyone thought that the King had gone mad. However, the absurd formation made a bit of sense to his majesty - seven attackers would paralyze the defense, with the other team having to request support from midfield, which would make the chances of scoring rare and ultimately taking the game to penalties.

"Do you guys approve?" The King asked to everyone present at the CNFT headquarters.

"YES!!!" They all answered in unison.

"A'ight then! Tomorrow the World will see for the first time Coldfield using the 2-1-7 formation with midfielders!" - Responded the democratic yet mentally unstable Coldfieldian King.

His main plan wasn't spreading conservative thoughts around the multiverse like his predecessor. It was to bring happiness to his people - and the King was doing very well.

Style modifier: +5
New formation: 2-1-7

Possible outcomes of the quarter-finals by the CNC

Mriin 0-1 Drawkland - We are betting on Drawkland for no reason.

Amnarei-asud 4-3 Coldfield - The most offensive game of the quarter-finals won't have a happy ending for our compatriots.

Rebuild the Wall 0-0 Great Caledonia and North Hybernia (0-0 AET|4-5 Penalties) - Rebuild the Wall (Ronald Rump's nation?) have the most defensive team in the BoF and it will bring the match decision to the penalties, where GC and NH will win.

EEC 3-1 Nordernious - We bet on the EEC - in the entire competition they did most goals than Nordernious.

Probable scorers for the next match:
Coldfield: Nathaniel Balogh, Scott Lund, Steven Chamberlain.
Amnarei-asud: El Amin, Yamaguchi, Saab.

by **Amnarei-asud** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 2:32 pm

High up in the rafters of Coma Tudo Stadium, in the seat as far from the pitch as he could manage, The Hood peered down on his players. Making the best possible use of their limited time training in the stadium ahead of their crucial quarter-final against Coldfield meant as little time messing about deciding what to do as possible. So, with efficiency in mind, he'd made clear to Sato that he would be leading the session solo tonight. It was a rare concession of power from The Hood, and, even though he'd handed Sato a list of exercises and drills he specifically wanted them to do, he could tell even from this height that the head coach was enjoying himself. The impressive stadium soaked up next to no noise whatsoever when the stands were as empty as they were now, and every now and then, when the air currents were eddying in the right direction, The Hood could hear him barking orders at the players as he put them through their paces.

The tackling drills went okay earlier, but the harrying exercises now were really where the team needed to work hard. The Hood had realised quickly that Asud football was based heavily on attack, and he hadn't messed with the unorthodox 3-3-1-3 formation he'd inherited. Three out-and-out strikers with the support of an attacking central midfielder was enough offence for any side, and it was only underlined by the marauding wide play of the two wingers. Nominally wing-backs, they operated as anything but when push came to shove. Only The Hood's stern warnings not to disobey his orders had stopped the side going completely gung-ho in attack, and as a result they now took far more care to not leave themselves open at the back by flying forwards. With three centre-backs not known for their mobility acting as the last line of defence in front of the distinctly average Petrosyan, this was important, and the harrying drills were almost entirely to blame for the Fennecs picking up their first ever clean sheet during the first knockout victory over Verseola.

Gradually, The Hood was teaching them that it wasn't always necessary to fly in with a tackle and risk a mistiming leading to a card, or worse, a goal. Instead, through repeated drilling and double training sessions, they'd become much better at getting quickly to opposition players and hustling them away from goal. Sticking to them like glue and waiting for them to make the first mistake. That was working fine at this Baptism of Fire where, for the most part, teams were unexperienced and lacked exposure to high quality football, but against any more sides like Drawkland - no strangers to international football - it would come undone. It was no surprise that that was the only match at this tournament that the Fennecs had failed to win. The Hood could teach them more, given time, but to get the time he needed he first needed to give them a crash course in being much, much harder to beat. The clean sheet was a good start, but he had no idea what Coldfield would be like in the match the following day. They'd changed management themselves recently, and even if The Hood didn't leave Sato to do all the opposition research, he was sure their volatility under new management would make them a tough side to predict.

Looking around, he triple checked there was nobody closer to him than the team he could see down there on the pitch. Twenty-three players, three coaches, two physios, Sato, and eighteen paramilitaries standing around the perimeter of the pitch. There was a handful of officials from Mercedini and the World Cup Committee standing in the tunnel, but that was it. He was as alone as he had been in months. Checking one last time, he allowed himself a rare luxury and let his hood down.

The breeze teased its way around his uncovered hair for the first time in months, wrestling away the last drabs of moisture that remained there from his shower that morning and bringing a little chill to the back of his neck. If anybody looked now, which they wouldn't, they might just about be able to make out that the man sitting in the gods of the stadium was only dressed from the neck down, but that was it. He shook his hair out happily and brought a small rubber ball from out of his pocket, bouncing it as he watched Sato starting the pass-and-go drills.

Bounce.

El-Amin was looking a little leggy. This wasn't a total surprise. The man was thirty, and was being asked to lead the line and keep up with the considerably younger wing attackers playing either side of him. The Hood made a mental note to suggest he plays a deeper role in the next match. Nobody would be expecting it, and it would allow Yamaguchi and Khoroushi to create unrestrained chaos in front of him. He was the best finisher in the squad by some margin, but maybe if things were going well tomorrow, it would be worth bringing Ali on with plenty of time left on the clock. El-Amin had scored both goals against Verseola, but perhaps leaving him on for the full ninety minutes in search of his hat trick had been unnecessary. The Hood wondered if he'd been allowing the heart to rule the head on that one. It mustn't happen again.

Bounce.

There was absolutely no hint of Zubin Abdulrashid showing any tiredness whatsoever. He still looked as fresh and as athletic as the first day The Hood climbed over the dunes of Ain Salah and rolled into the stadium to discover them. The man was a machine. Moving his legs like great pistons, he powered through the drills without breaking sweat. His passing was accurate, and he was the ultimate professional. The perfect dynamo for The Hood's side.

Bounce.

Faisal Karim was misplacing passed regularly. He looked nervous, even from this distance. That was perhaps to be expected. He was only young, after all, and was likely feeling a lot of pressure as the youngest member of the starting line-up at eighteen. Particularly after the fuss Al-Owairan had made over Boulos and his prospects. The Hood cursed the interfering twit under his breath. His little stunt had done more than damage the Fennecs' immediate chances of winning their group - the effects were still lingering even now.

Bounce.

Takeo Al-Humaidi, on the other hand, was looking cool and calm as he joked around with Yamaguchi. The pair had developed an almost instinctive understanding down that left flank, and The Hood was keen to exploit it. It had led to the first goal in the last round, after all, with Yamaguchi's knock-down falling at the perfect height for El-Amin to nod in at the back post, but maybe teams would be looking for it now. He didn't know how comprehensive Coldfield's scouting initiatives were.

Bounce.

Takahashi was holding his hamstring between drills and running gingerly. That was a concern. The Hood made a note to make sure he was getting looked at by the physios.

Bounce.

And then there was Saab. Abdul-Rahman Saab. The common opinion, despite the continued strong performances and yet another assist in the last round - this one a pull-back for El-Amin - was that The Hood was mad to persevere with starting the old-timer. The Hood's opinion was that he was entirely correct to do so. Languidly strolling around the pitch now, Saab kept himself to himself, and there was always a nagging feeling that he didn't quite fit in with the rest of the team. The Hood was aware of this, and guessed that it was more than simply based off the age difference between Saab and the others. But, if he was happy with his relative solitude, and the rest of the team were happy, so was The Hood. If he didn't socialise with the others, he certainly knew exactly where they were on the pitch. He looked like he put no effort whatsoever into this game, but he always managed to find the perfect amount of pace when he needed it, never exerting himself more than he needed to, but equally never letting the opposition any sniff of possession when he had it. If he got it, it would end up safely at the feet of another Asud player. That's all there was to it.

Bounce.

The Hood had tried on a few occasions to talk to Saab, the player whose appearance on the bench had first grabbed The Hood's attention all those weeks ago in Ain Salah, but in every conversation since, Saab had given The Hood no inkling whatsoever that there was any connection between them at all. He'd thought he'd recognised something in Saab, back then. But these conversations since were casting doubt in his mind. Was he, perhaps, just going mad?

Bounce.

It was entirely feasible, wasn't it, that Saab was simply an older player with a wealth of footballing experience to back up his general air of having seen it, done it, heard it all. It was entirely feasible that this air was what The Hood had picked up on. He got the impression that Al-Tanaka felt it too, but not as strongly as The Hood, but he got absolutely nothing from Saab. Were it not for the fact that The Hood was absolutely sure who he himself was, he'd have said there was still a decent chance he was simply a man who'd woken up on a beach after a bad bump to the head and was trying to piece together his memories. Fortunately, he did know who he was, and why he needed to stay under the black hooded robe of his. But he was no longer sure on Saab.

Bounce.

And if he was unsure of his own memories, he wasn't sure Saab had any at all. Or anyone else in the squad, to be honest. They appeared to have pretty good memories going back for the last seven years or so, but anything before that was incredibly sketchy. There was a vague knowledge of the coup forty years ago or so that had swept the Sheikh into power, but that was about it. If he asked Saab or El-Amin which footballers they'd admired in their youth, they simply shrugged and said something non-committal. Only Simeone Al-Owairan, of all people, seemed to know anything connected to a past beyond that. It was strange.

Bounce.

The national motto seemed to make a whole lot more sense when you thought about it like in connection with this information. The Land With No Memory. Shame it seemed to be the people that were affected too, not just the land. Was it something about the desert, maybe? The Hood didn't know. He wasn't planning on sticking around in Amnarei-asud forever, but it would have been nice to understand a bit more about the place he was biding his time in.

Bounce.

But biding his time until... what? He knew he had to go at some point. Go find what he needed to find. But when? Where? And how?

Bounce.

He'd been so certain back in Ain Salah. It seemed the longer he was away from that place, the weaker his clarity became.

Bounce.

A shrill whistle from down on the pitch jerked him from his introspection. Sato was waving the players back into their huddles to prepare for an inter-squad practice match with the tiny goals whilst the goalkeepers were put through their paces separately.

The Hood pocketed his ball and raised his disguise back over his head. Training would be over soon, and he needed to pass on his notes to Sato and make sure he didn't miss the coach back to the hotel. The problem with being so hidden all the time was, of course, that people tended not to notice so much if you weren't around. And, it really was a very tall stand. The Hood broke into a little jog as he headed down the steps towards the concourse, hoping that his clarity of mind would come back in time and trying not to think about what might happen if it didn't.

by **Great Caledonia and North Hybernia** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 3:26 pm

The Herald

Great Caledonia and North Hybernia wins in penalty kicks!

Great Caledonia and North Hybernia beat Abristan 2-2 (2-2 AET) (0-3 pens.) in a football thriller game and advances to the quarter finals! Abristan attacked first at the 13th minute when Jaginho passed the ball to Nasser Al Patrani who dribbles and makes a header pass to Saabiq El Abassi who shoots but Jennifer O'Byrne makes the save! Great Caledonia attacked at the 18th minute when Elizabeth McQueen passed to Saundra Dunlop who dribbles and passed to Melanie Kirk who dribbles and makes a cross to Anton who shoots but Jamal Byala-Dwyer tips the ball and it goes out of bounds. It's a corner kick for Great Caledonia. Melanie Kirk kicks the ball in front of the net and Elizabeth McQueen heads it into the net, it's a goal! 1-0 Great Caledonia. Abristan attacked at the 26th minute when Jason Welshire dribbled with the ball and passed to LeMoyen Turka but Tearlach MacEachthighearna intercepts the ball and passed it to Melanie Kirk who dribbles and passes the ball to Winnifred Owens who dribbles but Seri Ngundo tackles her, it was a clean tackle. Conor De Vries takes the loose ball and dribbles, now it's Abristan's time to counter attack and he passes the ball to Muhamad Del who dribbles and he makes a cross to Saabiq El Abassi who shoots but Jennifer O'Byrne makes the save! Great Caledonia attacked at the 41st minute when Maggie Johnstone passed the ball to Winnifred Owens who dribbles and passes to Anton who shoots but Jamal Byala-Dwyer makes the save. The score is 1-0 Great Caledonia at the halftime.

Great Caledonia attacked again at the 52nd minute when Melanie Kirk passed the ball to Cristiano Fernando who makes a cross to Anton who kicks the ball but Jamal Byala-Dwyer stops it. At the 67th minute, Nasser Al Patrani dribbles with the ball and makes a cross to LeMoyen Turka who shoots but Jennifer O'Byrne makes the save! Abristan attacked again at the 81st minute when Seri Ngundo passed to Jaginho who dribbles and makes a header pass to LeMoyen Turka. LeMoyen Turka heads the ball and it's in, it's a goal and the game is tied at 1-1. Great Caledonia attacked at the 85th minute when Melanie Kirk dribbles with the ball and passed it to Anton who makes a cross to Kevin O'Maoilsheachlainn who kicks the ball and it's in, 2-1 Great Caledonia! At the 87th minute, Jason Welshire dribbles with the ball and passes it to Jaginho who passes it to Jason Welshire who passes it to Jaginho who passes it to Saabiq El Abassi who shoots but his shot is blocked by the defense, a great save by Tearlach MacEachthighearna. Jason Welshire takes the loose ball, he shoots and he scores, the game is tied again! Wow 3 goals in the last 10 minutes of the regular time and now we're going to overtime!

Abristan attacked at the 99th minute when Muhamad Del passed to Jaginho who dribbles and passed to Saabiq El Abassi who shoots but Jennifer O'Byrne tips the ball and it goes out of bounds. Nasser Al Patrani takes the corner kick. He kicks the ball in front of the goal but Tearlach MacEachthighearna clears it. Conor De Vries intercepts the ball and shoot from 80 meters but the ball is stopped in defense by Tearlach MacEachthighearna who clears the ball but Conor De Vries intercepts the ball and shoots from 75 meters but Jennifer O'Byrne makes the save. Great caledonia attacked at the 116th minute when Melanie Kirk passed the ball to Saundra Dunlop who dribbles and makes a header pass to Kevin O'Maoilsheachlainn who heads the ball over the net. It's the end of the extra time and the score is still tied at 2-2. We're going to penalty kicks!

Great Caledonia won the first coin toss and choose to take kicks at the right end goal. Abristan won the 2nd coin toss and decided to kick last.

Cristiano Fernando is the first to kick and he scores! LeMoyen Turka is coming to kick but Jennifer O'Byrne dives on the left to stop the ball! 1-0 Great Caledonia in penalty kicks.

Anton comes to kick but Jamal Byala-Dwyer jumps left to stop the ball. It's Saabiq El Abassi's time to kick. He shoots but Jennifer O'Byrne jumps to the right to make the save! Still 1-0.

It's Kevin O'Maoilsheachlainn's time to kick. He kicks the ball and Jamal Byala-Dwyer dives on the right but the ball is in the net he dove on the wrong side! It's Jaginho's time to kick, he kicks but the ball goes over the net, 2-0 Great Caledonia!

Melanie Kirk comes to kick, she advances slowly and she fires the ball between Jamal Byala-Dwyer's legs, it's a goal and it's a win, Great Caledonia and North Hybernia wins 2-2 (2-2 AET) (0-3 pens.) and Jennifer O'byrne was amazing in penalty kicks blocking two shots!

Great Caledonia and North Hybernia wins 2-2 (2-2 AET) (0-3 pens.) in Bonesea's quarter finals and will play against Rebuild The Wall in Bonesea's semi final, probably the most defensive team in the Baptism of Fire. Melanie Kirk played an amazing game and will stay in the starting line up even if Doireann O'Donnghaile is able to come back after serving a one game suspension. Callum McGivern who missed the last two games due to a lower body injury will come back against Rebuild The Wall.

BOXSCORE

18th minute: Elizabeth McQueen unassisted
81st minute: LeMoyen Turka assisted by Jaginho
85th minute: Kevin O'Maoilsheachlainn assisted by Anton
87th minute: Jason Welshire unassisted

Penalty kick goals
Cristiano Fernando, Kevin O'Maoilsheachlainn and Melanie Kirk
None

Yellow Cards
Maggie Johnstone, Saundra Dunlop
Jackson Twente, Jason Welshire

Red cards
None
none

by **Nordernious** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 6:57 pm

Rule Theriault was laying in bed in his hotel room in Spittalsea, Bonesea just days after System Preservation had preserved yet another 1-0 Nordernious lead off of an early goal. The Nordernian manager was browsing the Internet on his phone when he happened upon Wikiverse, a web site that billed itself as the "leading repository of knowledge in the multiverse that anybody can edit" and which seemed to have an article about absolutely anything. After reading the article about himself, Theriault removed a few rather unflattering lines about himself before clicking on a link to Der Siegfrieder's web site.

Der Siegfrieder

Anti-Government Rioters Arrested in Siegfried

A dozen anti-government rioters were arrested yesterday after engaging in political violence during the swearing in ceremony for new President Luca Glockner. Glockner, who won the recent election with 62% of the vote, swore the customary oath of loyalty to the people of Nordernious and to objective reality. However, several blocks away, 8 young men and 4 young ladies decided that the swearing in of the ceremonial head of state of our nation was an appropriate occasion to engage in criminal conduct. Thirty of Siegfried's finest men quickly showed them the error of their ways, providing each miscreant with a well-deserved 3 blows from a standard-issue nightstick before hauling them off to a court of law to answer for their criminal conduct.

While this is not the first instance of political rioting to have taken place in Nordernian society, it is the first in nearly two decades. The last case of political rioting was the infamous Grimmwald Riot which left the city's then-Mayor Dominik Austerlitz unable to walk for nearly a year. After that riot, which was regarded at the time as an escalation of what had, up to that point, been monthly outbreaks of political violence, the government cracked down on rioting and other politically motivated violence with the Zero Tolerance for Political Violence Act, which established penalties so severe that we were spared riots for nearly two decades. Unfortunately, it seems that our good fortune could not hold out forever.

The Honorable Judge Niklas Hueber oversaw the trial of the 12 rioters. Judge Hueber reviewed the evidence and pronounced them guilty after a 5 minute trial, sentencing each of them to a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, with a requirement that they perform a minimum of 60 hours per week of hard labor of a sort useful to society. As per the law regarding such sentences, should they fail to meet their labor requirements for any given week, two additional weeks will be added onto their sentence. In addition, should additional weeks be added onto their sentence, the labor requirement for all additional weeks shall be increased to 70 hours. Judge Hueber told Der Siegfrieder that he hopes "that the sentence will serve as a deterrent to other individuals who are considering involvement in any kind of political riot, which is something that we cannot and will not tolerate in Nordernious." The 12 convicts could not be reached for comment.

Political Uncertainty Grows in Free Republics as Polls Show Fanatic Likely to Make Second Round Again

In what will have to seem like deva vu to those who have experienced recent Republican elections, the Salvation Circle candidate is still polling high enough to make it into the second round of their elections. Delmar Lavallee, the leader of the scary new group of religious fanatics, is now polling at 21% in the latest News Magazine poll and 19% in the latest RSFBC poll. Lavallee's cult has been spreading across the Free Republics in recent months, gaining many converts and acquiring a large warchest to spend in the unregulated free-for-all that is Republican politics.

The good news is that most observers of Republican politics do not expect Lavallee to make the 3rd round, let alone win the election, but nobody expected Reino Kulseth or Caleb O'Reilly to do that either. And that is little comfort given that Lavallee is easily the scariest man to ever be a serious candidate to lead the FFR. This is a man who believes that his imaginary friend in the sky wants him to impose a Bronze Age legal code on a modern nation. This is a man who wants to create a society that stones disobedient teenagers to death rather than promoting a culture that keeps teenagers out of trouble in the first place. This is a man who wants to implement a legal code that would force rape victims to marry their rapist!

The other major candidates for Consul of the Free Republics are Abelino Greece of the Radicals, Admiral Pierre Theriault of Responsible Progress, Lydia Henderson of the Progressives and whoever the Moderate Liberal Conservatives decide to nominate at their convention. No Moderate Liberal Conservative candidate has even 10% of the party's delegates and all 30 of their candidates have at least 1 delegate. The support of 50% plus 1 delegates is required to become the party's nominee.

While Lavallee is widely regarded as a longshot, the political uncertainty in the Free Republics is expected to have a negative effect on regional security and the regional economy until we know how the Republican election is going to go. Let's hope that the people of the Free Republics use better judgment this time than they've shown in recent elections. Another bad decision could lead to a complete loss of confidence in the stability and competence of the Republican political system, which would likely lead to lasting chaos throughout the region and the multiverse.

by **Drawkland** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 7:04 pm

ROUND OF 16: NDAKU
Written By: Ellen Bolabore and Travis Plant

RECENT RESULTS
GROUP C:
Turkmenbasyn 1–4 Amnarei-asud
Drawkland 1–1 Kernovi
Amnarei-asud 4–2 Kernovi
Turkmenbasyn 0–3 Drawkland
Drawkland 1–1 Amnarei-asud
Kernovi 1–0 Turkmenbasyn
Group C                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Amnarei-asud                 3   2  1  0    9   4  +5    7
2 Drawkland                    3   1  2  0    5   2  +3    5
3 Kernovi                      3   1  1  1    4   5  −1    4
4 Turkmenbasyn                 3   0  0  3    1   8  −7    0
ROUND of 16:
Mriin 2-1 Juvencus
Ndaku 2–3 Drawkland
Amnarei-asud 2-0 Verceola
Coldfield 2-0 Kosovakia
Rebuild the Wall 2-1 Nagore
Abristan 2-2 Great Caledonia and North Hybernia (2-2 AET) (0-3 pens.)
Hernton 2-3 EEC
Nordernious 1-0 Cosneolta

KICK CORPS FIXTURES:
Drawkland 1-1 Kernovi @ ezMART Stadium
Turkmenbasyn 0–3 Drawkland @ ezMART Stadium
Drawkland 1-1 Amnarei-asud @ ezMART Stadium
Ndaku 2-3 Drawkland @ Snowflake Stadium
Mriin vs Drawkland @ Partush Arena

Despite being the designated "away" team for that match versus Ndaku,
The Kick Corps wore "home" kits to avoid a color clash.

With the group stage in the books and the knockout rounds ahead, the Kick Corps was set to play on against Ndaku in the Round of 16. How did it turn out? Well, for one, you're reading this article. You can probably assume what that means.¹ For two, you've probably already seen the green in your peripheral vision, meaning that Drawkland advances to the Quarterfinals! Incredible, right? Well, it was sort of expected by many. Plenty of people outside of Drawkland still expect us to take it all the way. I can't confirm or deny that of course, and I don't want to really jinx anything, but at this stage it's looking pretty likely. But let's read on to see exactly what happened.

vs NDAKU
For the first match of this Baptism of Fire not held in Zholvi's ezMART Stadium, at least for Drawkland, the stands were still pretty packed. And even though the capacity was only about 5,000 more (a 29,000 total), the domed arena was totally packed. The Drawkian tradition of filling all open gaps continues. The Ndakene crowd numbered somewhere between 10 and 15 thousand, a few thousand were neutral, and the rest were all Drawkian. And very loud.

Being in Zolorini, the team was flown in to the capital from Orga. They would've reportedly gotten a hotel in Zolorini to stay, but considering the Quarterfinal matchup would be at Partush Arena in Orga, they kept their reservation extended until at least the end of the Quarterfinals. Foresight is always a good thing to have. Unfortunately, it also has nothing to do with this match, which is very exciting!

Ndaku got the ball to start the match and rushed downfield immediately. The heavily offensive nature of both teams really guaranteed that it would be a high-scoring and exciting affair. Before the clock even ticked to minute 1 the Ndakene had already made a shot on the goal. It was way wide right, but hey. Shots are shots. Even though their first attack missed, they ran into the throw-in's path and got it back and staged another few shots within the first 10 minutes. A sweet tackle by Nicole Warren which landed in front of Sarah Arrowsword was the first to get the Kick Corps some solid possession time, and it showed. The team took their time going downfield, short lateral passes or longer crossing passes between the players keeping the Ndaku team both nervous and on their toes. The fact that the team with such an attacking nature was biding time and being slow while methodical was rather unnerving, even for us fans who were watching the game. However, once the time came, the team suddenly seemed to snap up on a dime and rocket into an extremely fast and aggressive mode of play which had Ndaku spinning. The crowd was roused and began cheering louder and louder, until, in the 19th minute, a savvy pass by Leea May (her first cap) to Ellzidan got the ball in a good position. The 2 defenders rushing up to cover her were too slow, and the elf fired a shot so quick that Keeper Kyle Morgan could barely react in time to move, much less actually stop the goal. The crowd reached its tipping point, with the Drawkian half going wild with cheers and the Ndakene half going wild with jeers.

With 0-1 playing on the scoreboard, the pressure upped a little bit. Tempers on the field began to flare as drive after drive were stopped by both teams. In minute 32, captain and striker of the Ndaku team, Sajjad Duha, made a strike right on target which Savannah Everett saved at the last second. The suspected member of the "Human Brotherhood" gang got very heated at Everett at what he thought was sure to be an equalizer, and he began yelling and cursing at her. Everett, who is known for not backing down on a challenge, began screaming back at the shorter player¹ for about 20 to 30 seconds, before the referee stepped in. Both players got yellow cards, but both team managers decided that they were too important to sub out. Pretty much all the fans wanted their star players to stay in the game for obvious reasons.

After that attitudes seemed to calm down and both teams seemed to play a tad more politely and conservatively. This clearly bored the crowd as the cheering wasn't as loud or exuberant, but that was soon to change. Another shot on the goal by the Ndaku team failed to capitalize and the Kick Corps got the ball back, but instead of passing it in close to a midfielder or a defender,² Everett booted the ball way downfield to the waiting feet of Corrie Archer. Archer faked making a huge kick to the goal which sent Morgan flying in the direction he thought the ball would go, but instead Archer passed it off quietly to Katie Madison,³ who made sure the ball was secure before smashing it into the now-vulnerable goal. The shot went in and the crowd and game found new life. The 0-2 lead was so satisfying for the Drawkian crowd, who hadn't really had a decent lead in forever. The Corps may be decent at not losing games, but they do need to get better at actually leading them and not letting them come down to the wire.

Speaking of down to the wire, with mere minutes on a hand left until the half whistle would be blown, the Kick Corps had regained possession after a petty Ndaku drive, and were puttering about in Ndaku territory. Nobody expected much to happen, maybe a few half-hearted shots until the time ran out and both sides could take a break. This simply wasn't the case, though. While it was said after the game that they didn't expect to score at this time, Archer found herself with the ball, an open shot, and over 2 minutes left before the half was over. She was out on the flat, very little angle on the goal, but with nobody covering her, all she had to do was shoot it past Morgan, which she did. A beautiful shot which zoomed close to the ground looked like it'd be easily intercepted by Morgan, but instead, it was not. The kick was going forward but actually was spinning sideways, an expert touch on the ball. It bounced once and completely changed momentum, spinning sideways into the goal instead of continuing forward to the waiting arms of Morgan. Just like that, with 2 minutes left in the first half, the score was an imposing 0-3. This was a bit too much for Baako Yamikani of the Ndaku side, who proceeded to throw a temper tantrum, yelling and pushing over Kaitlyn Axelson in anger.⁴ Axelson is a more mild-mannered player, so she didn't retaliate in any way, and all that came out of that was a yellow card for Yamikani, in minute 44.

Nothing else happened before and during the half, except for maybe afterwards the Ndaku forwards moved around in their coverage. This turned out to be a very smart move by the Ndakene manager, Chiebuka Ndukaku,⁵ as it changed the entire course of the match. It did, of course, take awhile, as Drawkland held the ball for a lot of the second half, but once the ball got to the other side of the field around 58', the momentum change. No longer covered by the pro Arrowsword, Duha was free to rip apart a lot more of the defense. Within 5 minutes of regaining possession Ndaku had already scored, and made the score 1-3. It was of course an uphill battle for them, but you can't say they didn't try. The ball began switching possessions very frequently, each team having only 5 or less minutes with the ball and few shots before the other team regained the ball. But in the late 70s, Ndaku decided they had enough of that.

Ndaku began an onslaught which would basically last the entire rest of the game. With nothing left to lose, Duha brought a powerful drive to the goal with Everett couldn't cover, and he scored in minute 81. That didn't mean the Kick Corps was off the hook though. With 2-3 glaring at both teams as the minutes counted up, Ndaku brought shot after shot after shot, corners on corners, and the defense was honestly getting entirely worn out. Everett was faltering, and it almost looked like the game was about to end with a tie and have to be extended ... but it did not. Finally, after 4 minutes of added time, the final whistle blew and the score was over. The Kick Corps lived to see another day.

BoF 64 Round of 16, Snowflake Stadium, Mercedini	Score	Goals	Cards
NDAKU	2	62' Duha, 81' Duha	32' Duha, 44' Yamikani
DRAWKLAND	3	19' Ellzidan, 38' Madison, 43' Archer	32' Everett

PLAYER PERFORMANCES
Despite almost losing it in the end, you can't deny that the Kick Corps was running smoothly for the first half. Here's how each player did on the pitch.

Everett: 8.6 Even though she conceded two goals after the half, for before the half and the last 10 minutes of the game, Savannah was clearly staying on point and reading the players impressively well. The game could've ended as a late disaster if it weren't for her quick thinking and skill. She gets a good score today.
Arrowsword: 8.9 Sarah was not her highly skilled self today. Okay, she was, as normal, carrying the backfield, but considering that Ndaku scored the most goals in one game against Drawkland in their whole tournament, and the most goals scored on Drawkland despite a win, it's fair to say she wasn't the best. However, she still was on point for most of the match. We think she'll be replaced in the match versus Mriin to give her a little breather. God help our defense next game.
Pack: 6.9 Cynthia has definitely been a weak link for the defense, despite being the letter Leftback on the team. We believe that Michael Starre and the Kick Corps administration should definitely look in to finding a better defensive base for the team. Perhaps it won't be achieved by the time the World Cup rolls around, but it's definitely something that should be looked into for future cycles.
Warren: 7.1 Nicole wasn't a whole lot better than Cynthia Pack in this match, but she was subjectively better over the course of the match. One could definitely blame leaky defense for the goals scored amount in this match, and Nicole was no exception to the assumption.
Axelson: 6.8 Kaitlyn, in her first cap with the Kick Corps, wasn't exactly on her best game. For one, she was playing out of position, usually used to playing Center for the Kayo Queens, instead of Left on the national team. Still, she was pretty underwhelming and allowed a few plays past her, which definitely did not help out the defense. Hopefully she improves or she may be cut from the team in the near future. At least she avoided getting carded.
Ellzidan: 9.1 Ellzidan not only attempted to pick up some of the slack on the defensive side of the field,⁶ but also helped the team out by breaking open the scoreboard early in the game and getting a goal. She also commanded the field, and we feel like she also did a great job of intimidating some Ndakene players, which may or may not have played a factor in the game.
Thompson: 7.9 Mandy on her next time out after Match 1 was doing pretty well. Not only did she avoid a card despite a heavily-charged match, but she did excellently play to keep the match moving, and was instrumental in several moves down the field.
Crawford: 8.2 Jackie, even though she did a lot in the early group stage, hasn't been on point lately. Still, it's clear that she's holding back or saving her energy for something,⁷ and in any case she still is a crux of the forward line. We'll still see a lot of her in the near future.
Archer: 9.2 Corrie finally got another piece of the goal this match and made the most shots on goal this match. No doubt she was the woman of the match.
May: 8.0 Leea, like Kaitlyn Axelson, also got her first cap in this match. She didn't make big waves but still was a notable force. I'm running out of things to say. Here's a sentence that should actually contain content. Number 20 will be seen again, wethinks.
Madison: 9.1 And finally, after returning to the pitch in this match, Katie made a big show, scoring a goal and impressing the crowd, as well as proving she still deserves a spot on the team. It's hard to have to share time in the spotlight, especially if you're not even on the field for some of that time, but still. Good show.

Team Score: 8.16 In their best performance so far, the Kick Corps is showing that they're really on the up-and-up. Who knows how things will progress in the future rounds? We really don't, but we hope it's onwards and upwards. We don't have much else to say, but we think things will turn out well.

MRIIN MATCHUP
And thus, Drawkland advances in the soccer circle of life. On to the Quarterfinals for the Kick Corps, this time back in Orga at Partush Arena, and against the fantastical satyrs of Mriin. We're pretty confident about this one, considering that Ellzidan has encountered many many creatures and Satyrs probably list #147 on her list of Creatures She's Intimidated By.⁸ I mean, come on. They're half goat.⁹

As far as actual tactics go, it's clear this will be another high-scoring match. However, Mriin is slightly more defensive than Ndaku was, but still quite an offensive mindset. Expect goals galore. Because this is a playoff game, we could see Extra Time or even Penalties,¹⁰ but hopefully it'll just be full time so we don't have to get new undergarments once the match finishes and our fingernails will remain attached to our fingers.

There isn't as much to discuss as there was with Ndaku, regardless, we still think Mriin to be a worthy opponent. Whatever happens in the match, it'll certainly be exciting, and really everybody needs to watch the match if you weren't planning to already.

PLAYOFF PROJECTIONS
Alright. So, after the Round of 16, it appears we got 6/8 correct. That's 75% correct!¹⁵ Unfortunately all the incorrect calls were on our side, which we cared about more, but that's life.

Mriin vs Drawkland: Are you kidding me? We have to root for ourselves. We think Drawkland can take them on and win. We gotta, man. It'll probably be a close game regardless of result.
Amnarei-asud vs Coldfield: We still think Amnarei-asud is a strong side, considerably stronger than Coldfield. And we stand by that opinion. Amnarei-asud will win, and probably by a large margin too.
Rebuild the Wall vs Great Caledonia and North Hybernia: Okay, despite our deep-seated hatred¹⁶ for the Caledonians/Hybernians, we still think that GC&NH will beat Rebuild the Wall. We're honestly expecting a GCoS Semifinal rematch for the Baptism of Fire final.¹⁷
Nordernius vs EEC: These are two sides which are undoubtedly close in skill. EEC is really only a corporate rec league's all-stars, but damn. They've exceeded all expectations and we think EEC will keep going by defeating Nordernius. We don't think the experienced Rule Theriault can carry Nordernius much further.

by **Mriin** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 10:16 pm

"Well." Zilia and Mari, the only teammates not on the Alchemists, sat together at a Mercidini bar. Zilia was staring into her glass of wine. "We're in the knockouts."

Mari took a casual sip of her excessively fruity drink while stealing a glance at some of the other patrons staring. A couple of satyrs in a human country tended to stand out. "Yep. You're not getting nervous now, are you?"

"How are you not?" Her eyes crossed as she lost herself in the wine. "We don't do knockouts in Mriin. I did terribly in Aeropag. This isn't my scene... there's way too much hanging on one game!"

"On one game? Just imagine it's like it's the last game of the season, you're in second by two points and playing the team in first. It's super tense, sure, but I know you could handle that no problem. How's this different?"

Pushing the wine glass away, Zilia turned to Mari. "It's like... it is different. A big game at the end of a season... it has momentum behind it. All those games, all throughout the year, all leading up to it. And it's with my team. This BoF... we've played three games. Two of them have already been virtually do or die, we only had some leeway the first game and used it all up with the draw. There was never match that felt like 'just another game', it was always full throttle, all the time. And now it's actually do or die, on just our fourth game! Which is also only our fourth real game playing with everyone else on the team! And the whole world is watching!" She reached back for the wine and downed it in one go.

Mari's eyes went wide at that, then she put a hand on Zilia's shoulder. "Remember that we're always here for you. And I mean all of us--the rest of the Angels are in the stands every game, and even if the Alchemists are a weird bunch they're still good people. They want to be a team, and to win, just as much as you do; and we're going to have to trust them--and have them trust us--if we're going to move on. Sure, we're not all the most practiced together, but nobody here is. The whole point of this tournament is for teams like us to get our hooves wet, to learn how to play together before the real thing starts. And in the end, it is just another game--there's nothing special you have to do to win a knockout game. You just have to play football. Just keep doing what you love to do."

"...yeah..." she mumbled as she motioned to the barkeep with her glass, but Mari quickly pulled her arm back down.

"No no no, that's enough. I'm surprised you're still awake after what you just did, you've never been a drinker."

Leaning back on the stool, Zilia shrugged. "You can make all the good points you want, it's not settling down my stomach. I don't know if I'll be able to sleep tonight without some courage potions."

Both players stopped and turned around when they heard some chittering close behind them. A group of Mercidinian women that had been among the starers earlier was approaching. Mari figured Zilia wasn't in a state for socializing, so she took the lead. "Hello, ladies. Can we help you?"

The group squealed to each other a little, before one of them stepped forward with a piece of paper and a pen. "You're from the Mriinian team, right?"

Zilia couldn't help but snort. "How many other satyrs do you think you'll run into here?"

"Well, there are a lot visiting to watch you play, but I definitely recognized you when you walked in. I was right behind the south goal for the Willinois game!"

"So you got a prime view of me screwing up two saves in the second half, huh?"

"Oh, that's not fair. The rest of your team was practically having a picnic with a 4-0 lead, that you only let in two of those shots was remarkable! In fact, I was wondering..." she presented the piece of paper, which turned out to be a glamour shot of Zilia diving across the net to stop a bullet struck by Willinois' Valicari, which would have put the game within one goal with ten minutes left to go. "...if you could sign this for us!"

Zilia was taken aback. The gears in her head started to spin back up, having been rusted by the wine, and suddenly she realized it was incredibly obvious that that was what's happening and how had she not realized that? "O-oh... why do you want my signature?"

One of the other women from the group took a step forward. "Because you're awesome! Seeing women up there kicking butt on one of the world's biggest stages is SO COOL! You're an inspiration!"

"You're also, uh," said the girl in the back, who seemed to be the meekest, "really pretty."

Zilia's cheeks--normally a royal purple--had gone to a deep shade a magenta, at which Mari had a little chuckle. Zilia took the photo and laid it on the bar, and scribbled her name across it. "You all... are really flattering me too much."

"Nonsense! You're going to be the top of this Baptism's class, I just know it. Thank you so much for signing this, it'll be a real piece of history when you're a big star! Look for us behind the net at the Juvencus game in the second row!" And with that, the girls took their leave, quickly scurrying into the night while fawning over their new souvenir.

As Zilia turned back towards the bar, she noticed Mari was wearing a giant shit-eating grin. "...okay, I feel a bit better now. But I still want another drink!"

by **Rebuild the Wall** » Mon Jan 23, 2017 11:20 pm

Jones Banned From Baptism of Fire
Heroic Striker Suspended for Rest of the Tournament

In a move that came as a surprise to many, reserve striker Nathan Jones, who rescued Rebuild the Wall with two goals in their Round of 16 match against Nagore before being sent off for accidently punching the referee, has been banned from playing for the remainder of the tournament. The decision was announced in a joint press conference by the host nations with international officers.

During questioning after the announcement it was revealed that some Bonesea officials wanted to press criminal assault charges against Jones, against the wishes of referee Kasey Jones. Ultimately a compromise was reached that instead of pursuing criminal charges, Nathan Jones would be prohibited from playing for the remainder of the tournament.

Jones will be allowed to remain with the team, though he will not be allowed to be on the bench during matches and he faces a strict no contact rule with the referee involved in the incident. Not that he was likely to damage the reputation of our great nation by fraternizing with heathen foreign women anyways.

As of press deadline, we have been unable to reach Jones or Manager Martin Stone for comment on the ruling.

by **Abristan** » Tue Jan 24, 2017 7:06 am

Abristan Express

Abristani Misery as They Miss Out On Quarterfinal Place

Yesterday, Abristan were a tragic victim of the round of 16 at the 64th Baptism of Fire, losing 3-0 on penalties in a gripping game against Greater Caledonia and North Hybernia. Arguably Abristan were unlucky that after extra-time the score was still 2-2 but undeniably the Caledonian keeper pulled out off some outstanding saves to deny Abristan progression through to the next round. Even in defeat however Abristan played the attractive, no-nonsense football that the fans are so proud of. They gave their best up until the last second of the game, and certainly showed outstanding promise for the years to come. Of course, this tournament, while fiercely competitive and of a startlingly high standard, is truthfully merely a precursor and a warm-up to the the real event on the horizon, the world cup, in which Abristan will be sure to turn up to in great spirits and confidence, and if they play football even half as well as they did as the best points throughout this tournament, then I can see them going far.

Of course them being knocked out gives us and them a chance to reflect on this tournament, on what worked so well in the group stages and then what went sour in the Great Caledonia and North Hybernia game. From a football analysts point of view a lot of times Abristan showed off some real potential, particularly during the third group match against Savojarna, in which they demolished their opponents 6-2. If only they could have kept that form going forwards into the knockouts. One thing our football analysts kept picking up on was the attacking purpose demonstrated by the Abristani midfield, led ably by captain Jason Welshire and midfield partner Jaginho. Some stellar performances by wide men like Del, Ortiz and Szweda allowed the ball to be played quickly out of defense and the team to quickly transition from an uncompromising defense into a swift and vicious counter. The strike force up front also proved it could hold its own against more experienced sides, and particular mention has to made to Ismel Al Faucher, for grabbing a couple of goals and all round playing out of his skin, be it working as a target man up front, or dropping back to act as a first line of defense, which he did especially well in the second game against the Andromeda Archipelago. Credit must also be given to Manager Matthew Harris, for going to Bonesea with entirely the right attitude, which clearly rubbed off onto his charges.

In liu of Abristans great success, the President, and Randel Ali Hargreaves's Sports Ministry have announced they will announcing a parade on the teams return in praise of Abristans arrival on the world football scene, which will be held in the capital city of Carthage, and will be attended by all of the big names of Abristan, as well as a huge crowd of ordinary folk from all over the country who applied for tickets yesterday when they went on sale. Incredibly all of the tickets somehow sold out in under 2 hours, and are now only available through disreputable ticket touts. The government denies claims that it offered to reimburse families who bought multiple tickets to the event, and this is not the first time it has been accused to paying for public turnout at major events. Underground newspaper the Proclaimer even claimed up to 37 percent of the crowd watching the third group game in Carthage Freedom Square had been paid in some way or another to be there. Of course there is no evidence to back up these ridiculous claims, and the Proclaimer is a rag fit for mopping up spills if that.

The government announced this morning that the entire team will receive Orders of Abristan Silver Class, while captain Jason Welshire, manager Matthew Harris and star player Al Faucher will receive Orders of Abristan Nova Class, one above that of Silver Class. These will be presented to the players at the end of the parade.

The parade itself won't take place for a while, as the entire Abristani team has tickets to watch the final of the tournament, which we predict will be between Rebuild the Wall and Drawkland. The non-human Drawklanders have looked impressive going forward so far, and Rebuild the Wall have a scary defensive record so that could be a true clash of the titans.

The whole of Abristan would like to take this opportunity to thank the organisers of world cup football and the hosts, Bonesea and Mercedini for their brilliant contributions to the world of international football. We were very privileged to compete in such a prestigious tournament, and are sure other countries must feel the same way. Our particular host Bonesea provided us with vibrant culture, and all the support we needed to do our best at this tournament.

Rest assured you will see Abristan again on the global stage in the near future, and in the meantime we will continue to fight to earn our place as a global sporting presence.

by **Kosovakia** » Tue Jan 24, 2017 10:20 am

big shock after loss against Coldfield 'The dream is over'

It's all over for the Kosovakian team. This hurts this hurts a lot. All the Kosovakian fans will go back to home, 'The big disappointment' you can see it on every face. Nobody is happy. The expectation for Kosovakia were large, maybe to large.. The loss against Coldfield is not a great result, The BoF is an tournament where you have to learn as a team, And you have to learn how other teams work. But this loss against Coldfield is hard, we tought this will be easy, But it finished in an horrible 2-0 loss. Of course we had a great time here in Mercedini, But again this is hard. We have made it to the round of 16, it's not an good result. And certainly not before the world cup qualifiers. We still have 12 days from now to focus at the qualifications. But for now I want to say goodbye!

Huge thanks to Bonesea & Mercedini for this awesome tournament, I will never forget you!

by **Mercedini** » Tue Jan 24, 2017 1:45 pm

CUTOFF
Mercedinian Half: Quarter-Final

Quarter-final cutoff time. Some of you will be happy to get through, others will be raging.

What's happening in Mercedini?

Whether you're bonkers for Biology or crazy for Chemistry, pop over to the Science Museum for some exhilarating exhibits!
With only a couple of matches until the end of the tournament. You are running out of time to submit your Goal of the Tournament.
If you want to take a break from all of the footy. Take a walk down Lyrical Lane to experience the latest in musicals, concerts or orchestral pieces

Mriin 0-2 Drawkland
@ Partush Arena, Orga

Amnarei-asud 1–1 Coldfield (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.)
@ Coma Tudo Stadium, Acoflosa

Mercedinian Semi-Final

Drawkland vs. Amnarei-asud
@ Langtree Metropolitan Stadium, Langtree

by **Bonesea** » Tue Jan 24, 2017 3:21 pm

Quarterfinal Results
Bonesea

What's happening in Bonesea?

Author of the smash hit novel Sleeping Dogs, Illogan Tern, will be book-signing at Mission Books in the Cultural Quarter of Mission District, with drinks after at Discord Bar.
A visiting footballer was reported to the Bonesea Constabulary following an incident on Florence Beach. Details may follow.
In the Humble Opinion of Odger Lee, Man of Skiveness (a regular column in the Spit Rattle tabloid newspaper), travelling supporters have been welcomed with open arms. Have they enjoyed their visit to the cold corner of the multiverse?

Rebuild the Wall 0-1 Great Caledonia and North Hybernia
@ Turbine Field, Gallowsea;
referee - Patricia MacDonald (Osarius)

EEC 1-2 Nordernious
@ The Boldpark, Spittalsea;
referee - CZ Starling (Bonesea)

Semifinal - Bonesea

Great Caledonia and North Hybernia vs. Nordernious
@ St. Leah's Ground, Spittalsea

Baptism of Fire 64 [Everything Thread]

Matchday Three: Amnarei-asud

Bonesea BoF-64 R-16

Round of 16: Ndaku

Bonesea BoF-64 QF

Who is online