Everything Thread - Cup of Harmony 71

[Buyan]

The rim of the west stand of the Newton-Smith Arena glittered in the sun and Reidar had to fight a natural urge to shield himself from the silver lining that made goalkeepers dash through their kit bags for caps. Well, at last, he would have one as well. Of course he knew that it was only caused by the lucky cocktail with the ingredients of a Valter Isaksson suffering a bit of his left ankle and the given of a dead rubber sliced with a pinch of Ichi Tuzzio trying to keep everyone in the squad motivated – even apart from the eleven who had thundered through the first three games with such unilateral results.

There was certainly something unfair in calling it a waste of a game – even if he, Gularis, Nordin, Fossum and other Hedlunds were allowed some time on the pitch. It was a welcome to the squad of the future, with guys like Mikaucis, Raestad, Marciak and such reaching their expiration date. Being the only one to hear the anthem for the first time – that is, hearing it whilst trying to look focussed and calm as a camera slips past you whilst thousands of fans ferociously belt out the ineligible words – Reidar tried to keep himself from licking his lips or fumbling his thumbs. In a way, it felt as if he was the only Buyanese not focused on the revenge against Eastfield Lodge – or at least, what all aspired it would become once we clashed with the side that bumped us off the course twice during the qualifiers.

At the opposite of the referee, something completely different was going on. Lisander could stunt tonight if they managed to do better than Darmen against Dunnes and even if the odds were not in their favour, there was little doubt that Wagner and his chaps were eager to perform. In a way, it was the perfect set-up for a debut. If the Hedgehogs dropped the ball, no one would bother – if they won it was a display against an energetic side. The sun danced the cucaracha along the sky, the tifosi turned out in thick packs and were already feeling festive and the confidence was beaming. Everything was perfect.

Except Reidar.

He had dreamt about this evening for years on end, ever since he first set foot on the youth complex of the Giants. It was still in the days of Freddi Ulvan, the grizzled man manager who would sell his star players every other year just to ensure that the kids were alright and could train in the best possible circumstances. Season by season he stepped up, his brother by his side along with an army of people who first whispered, than said and eventually cried if off the rooftops – he’s going to be a Hedgehog one day.

All those practice sessions, those long travels with the youth team. Not going to the prom of high school – just to sit through a numbing core stability session. Standing in the pouring rain for hours that one time he was selected for the national youth trainings, being the only muppet making the transfer all the way to Pajukas every time. Sacrifices, day in and day out for that one moment. That one perfect day.

This was not a perfect day to have the runs.

[Lisander]

Lisander face Buyan to make history or just finish another cycle
Luís Septmer, for 433.LS

Everyone needs to start from somewhere. And the Cup of Harmony 71 is where these players start. Andreas Wagner until he is doing a good job in this new phase as captain. Unfortunately, the age is coming for him. I would like to see him arrive at the World Cup (Imperan Cups are not enough anymore).

Wait. This text in parentheses should be used to motivate players today against Buyan. Coach Fox, I know it's a difficult task today, even more against Buyan, the group winners, already qualified to CoH Knockout Stage and 55th in the multiverse. But if you read this blog, use this sentence:

IMPERAN CUPS ARE NOT ENOUGH ANYMORE.

Lisander deserves more. We are not just the country of Rugby, and if these guys make the Confederation understand, then Lisander football may in the future reach the TOP 10 in the world just as Rugby is reaching.

• More from 433.ls:

Lisander U-23 will play next Imperan Cup
What can we learn with the 10-season plan of LRU
Imperan Football Association present plans of a SuperLeague
Club Sparta needs only one win for U-23 Premiership title!

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[Filindostan]

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FOOTBALL
Piala Pilindo regionals review - Part II (Tanjung Pagi and Pelita Raya)

SAN MARCO - We brought you Part 1 of the Piala Pilindo regionals review. Now we bring you the second part, on how Peroramas and Perokotyog punched their tickets to the first round proper of the tournament.

Tanjung Pagi Regionals

Teams
Sporjak (Jakulta City; amateur) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Jakulta Lions (Jakulta City; amateur) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Peroramas (Massakar; amateur) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Perobo (Bogo; amateur) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Perobon (Bonjing; amateur) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Peropimen (Menodo; semi-professional) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Jakulta Surf (Jakulta City; local) - team of local surfers, shop owners, and tourist guides in Jakulta City
New Tanjung Pagi (Massakar; local) - 'Phoenix' club of Tanjung Pagi SC disappointed with the decision to rename the club to Persetapam

The last of the regional tournaments to field eight teams. In this region are six FFL hopefuls which might get their FFL licenses approved for next season, with the FFF already planning to create a second division to supplement the growth of Filindostani football and possibly qualify for UICA Series B Champions' Cup. The only semi-professional club in the regional tournament, Peropimen, is the favorite to win, along with Peroramas, and Sporjak.

Quarterfinals - matches held at Tanjung Pagi Regional Stadium
Peropimen 5–1 New Tanjung Pagi
Sporjak 2–0 Jakulta Lions
Jakulta Surf 0–2 Perobo
Perobon 1–2 Peroramas

Semifinals - matches held at Jakulta Esportiva Stadium
Peropimen 0–1 Peroramas
Sporjak 1–2 Perobo

Tanjung Pagi Regional Final - Jakulta Esportiva Stadium
Peroramas 4–0 Perobo

In the quarterfinals, Peropimen dispatched New Tanjung Pagi, 5-1, the only lopsided result of the four matches, ironically, held at Massakar's Tanjung Pagi Regional Stadium. Sporjak took care of Jakulta Lions, 2-0, while the same scoreline did Jakulta Surf no favors, as they were eliminated by Perobo. Perobon, meanwhile, succumbed to a late goal against Peroramas, 2-1. When the tournament moved to Jakulta City though, things took a surprising turn of events.

The club from Bogo managed to upset Sporjak 2-1 in the late match, while the favorites went down to a lone goal against Peroramas. In the final though, there were no surprises - the superior team strolled to a 4-0 win and will face Perotapam in the first round.

Pelita Raya Regionals

Teams
Perokotyog (Kota Otonomo Yogyakulta; semi-professional) - To enter the FFL in 90005
Peroperayog (Kota Otonomo Yogyakulta; semi-professional) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Perogurun (Gurunsing; semi-professional) - Interested party for FFL expansion
Perobara (West Rava; semi-professional) - Interested party for FFL expansion

Of the four regional tournaments, only Pelita Raya have a different format from the others. First, the format of their tournament is a single round robin, with the three FFL clubs in Pelita Raya hosting two matches each. Second, there are no local or amateur teams partaking in the competition. All four clubs are from Yogyakulta, which was declared as an autonomous city last month, Gurunsing, and West Rava. The two clubs from Yogyakulta are the favorites, but never count out the other two clubs who are just as ambitious as the two.

Matchday 1
Perobara 0–2 Perokotyog - Olympiki Naturalisasi Stadium
Peroperayog 0–1 Perogurun - Stadium Petrofilindo

Matchday 2
Perokotyog 2–1 Perogurun - Hilura Bong Kanor Stadium
Perobara 2–2 Peroperayog - Olympiki Naturalisasi Stadium

Matchday 3
Peroperayog 0–1 Perokotyog - Stadium Petrofilindo
Perogurun 1–4 Perobara - Hilura Bong Kanor Stadium

  Pelita Raya Regionals Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Perokotyog              3   3  0  0    5   1  +4    9  CHAMPIONS
2 Perobara                3   1  1  1    6   5  +1    4
3 Perogurun               3   1  0  2    3   6  −3    3
4 Peroperayog             3   0  1  2    2   4  −2    1

Perokotyog dominated the competition, winning all their matches in the group. They will meet Perouno in the first round, and will look to upset them in their way to the cup.

The FFF also annunced that this format of the tournament is possibly a one-time chance of a lifetime, as the teams start to fill up the spots for the FFL-2 next year, the regional tournaments may or may not be needed. Regardless, this gave teams the avenue for the Filindostani faithful to know about their local clubs and contribute more to the growth of local football and other sports in the country.

Before we turn the coverage to our friends at FSTV (Filindo Sports Television), we'll show you again the bracket for the upcoming first round of the Piala Pilindo.

FIRST ROUND PROPER
International Club Names used

FR-1: Buenavista SC 005 vs Fortunas
Buenavista Community Complex, Buenavista

FR-2: Kabanalan SC 004 vs San Lomar Cooperative
Kabanalan Sports Complex, Kabanalan

FR-3: Perokotyog Yogyakulta vs Perouno Bandarito
Kompleks Olahraga Yogyakulta, Yogyakulta

FR-4: Polisi Pilindo vs Perokojak Kota Jakulta
Fortunas Stadium, San Marco*

FR-5: Peroramas Massakar vs Perotapam Massakar
Tanjung Pagi Regional Stadium, Massakar**

FR-6: San Rafael Wardogs vs Perotres Bandaroon
Kabunuklan Sports Complex, San Rafael

FR-7: San Rafael City vs Venividicci
San Rafael University Football Field, San Rafael

FR-8: CSKA Filindo vs Perodos Bandariyan
San Mameng Municipal Stadium, San Mameng

*-Kabanalan Sports Complex will be used by Kabanalan SC in the same competition.
**-Peroramas will be the nominal home team.

SEE MORE NEWS

• Juvencus 3-1 Filindostan: Pula Garuda's Cup of Harmony fate lies on deciding match between Juvencus and Northwest Kalactin
• FFF: 'We plan on establishing Filindostan's second tier next year'
• Big time drug dealers beware: ten more killed as anti-drug campaign kicks into full gear

Written by FSNA Staff.

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Juvencus 3-1 Filindostan
Boswick University Stadium. Elder, Qasden
Araujo 42', Silvestri 74', 85' - Yish 50'
FID Lineup: Gerry; Casimir, Dina Satyawan (cpt, Kartio 80'), Alex Jampang; Damaris, King, Mohd Safri, Domo; Yakob (Siharto 60'); Bienvenido, Yish

The 3-1 loss suffered by the Filindos against Juvencus put them on the brink of elimination from the Cup of Harmony. With Northwest Kalactin managing to take a point in their match against Mercedini, who ended their CoH campaign winless, the Kalactinians are just a couple of points behind the Pula Garuda, with the latter's group matches done, and can only wait for the outcome of the match back in Taxson. With the team starting to pack their bags in their quarters for a potential early exit from the Atlantian Oceania nation, they had a short meeting in the room of Willy to plan on watching the match live.

SETTING - In a hotel in Taxson, where the team base is located. The day before the match between Juvencus and Northwest Kalactin.

WILLY: Unfortunately guys, I have something to announce. I have received a notice from the FFF that King will not be allowed to watch the match live at Taxson.

(whole team groans, grumbles can be heard at the background)

YISH: Um, sir Willy, I'll also not go, since King would not be there.

VICKY: Okay... Fizzy? Can you also stay here...

DINA: Ms. Vicky, I have things to do and I might not be able to come tomorrow to the match, so I'll probably stay...

KING: You can go, Dina. We're in good hands here. You see, Enzo, he decided not to come to the match to guard, or watch the game with us in the hotel room, so don't worry about us.

DINA: It's not about you, moronic taunter. (lashes out her tongue at King)

ENZO: King's right. I need to contact my brother for an important family matter. My parents' wedding anniversary will be a week from now so we have to discuss things during our rest day.

WILLY: Okay, so the four of you will stay here. It's better if you're all on one room watching the match. And remember, no intercourses between any of you. We might still havea match depending on the result at Merellin Park. And oh, don't wear our team gears. Wear civilian clothing, we're going low profile here. But don't make yourselves look like burglars, okay?

EVERYONE: Yes sir.

The next day, the team, sans King, Yish, Dina, and Enzo, left the hotel to watch the match live and enjoy the Qasdonian atmosphere in what may be their last day there.

[Mattijana]

Mattijana Hold Their Own Against Higher-Ranked Opponents

MFO SPORT

Mattijana find themselves in strong position going into the final round of group fixtures at the Cup of Harmony after a 1-1 draw with Apox and a 2-0 victory over Coldfield left them second in the group on 7 points.
Dusan Vukoja's side have a bye on matchday 5 having already played their 4 scheduled games and will be nervously watching the scoreline between Apox and Vangaziland to find out whether they make it through to their first Cup of Harmony knockout stage.

After defeat to Vangaziland, Mattijana were keen to hit back against the group's highest ranked side Apox and got off to the better start in Qasden. Mathilde Lekarisa was especially bright and should have scored when she weakly turned a pinpoint low cross from Helena Neumann towards goal from a good position, forcing a good low save from Apoxian goalkeper Jadranka Steele. Jessika Struna also went close from the right hand side, cutting in and stinging the palms of Steele with a blast from the edge of the box.

It was Apox's best chance of the half that eventually led to a deserved Mattijanan goal however. Alpha Gandhi's long range effort would have caused more problems for Lucija Handanovic had it been heading for the bottom corner, but was hit straight at the Mattijanan goalkeeper who easily fielded the ball. She kicked the ball long with the Apoxian defense caught high up the pitch, allowing Lekarisa to flick a pass into the path of Andreas Weiss. The striker, showed to be only fractionally onside from replays, picked up the ball and fired home with only Steele to beat.

Apox regained some of their familiar form in the second half however, ceasing to afford Mattijana the space to make the passes and runs they had been doing at will in the first period. Oakstone-Sandoval went close when she fired wide from a crowded position 16 yards out, but contributed to the equaliser just minutes later when her sliced shot from the corner of the area fell perfectly to Alpha Gandhi, the Apoxian forward shooting into the roof of the net.

With both sides reasonably satisfied with the point. The game fizzled out to a draw and both sides were also presented with injury concerns. Apox defender Eurwen Raynerson pulled up 3 minutes into the second half with a side problem whilst Mattijana right-back Dominik Illisevic was forced off in the 82nd with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

That injury would prove to be severe enough to prevent Illicic from returning for the match against Coldfield, so Kevin Krychowiak, his replacement in the final 10 minutes of the Apox game, stepped into the starting line up.
Their opponents, officially the second-highest ranked side in the group, had had a mixed start in their first 2 games. Despite a 2-1 win over Vangaziland on Matchday 1, they were beaten by the same scoreline by Apox in their second match.

Mattijana once again got off to a solid start, as they had in all of their previous games this Cup of Harmony, and made the most of the early pressure when Andreas Weiss headed home a swinging back-post cross from Krychowiak, Weiss's second goal of the tournament and Krychowiak's first ever senior assist.

Unlike some of the group's other sides however, Coldfield reacted well to going behind and were denied an instant equaliser by only some woeful finishing when Murray, through on goal, went for power and clobbered a shot well into the stands to the delight of the Mattijanan supporters.
Murray showed the finishing of a man out of form just a few minutes later. A cross from Hawking found its way through to the forward, but was once again sliced over.

Mattijana also missed a chance to double their lead when a shot from Marko Hojbjerg hit a defender and fell to Jessika Struna, the winger unable to get a shot away from under her feet and eventually shovelling a weak shot into the arms of Miller.

Coldfield showed few signs of improving their situation after the break either however as the Mattijanan midfield got back on the ball and turned the screw. Weiss flashed another header across the face of goal from a Bisrali cross before Hojbjerg fired over from the edge of the box.
It was Hojbjerg's midfield partner Katarina Jakupovic who would eventually steal the show though. Another cross from Krychowiak was only half-cleared by Gerig and the Snezn player was unmarked to smash a half-volley past Miller, off the underside of the bar and into the back of the net from 25 yards out.

With Mattijana 2-0 up, only their clean sheet was really at stake and despite a late header from Balogh forcing a great save from Lucija Handanovic, the back line eventually held firm.

The win gives Mattijana 7 points from their 4 group games, putting them second in the group behind Apox. Should the group-leaders beat 3rd placed Vangaziland on matchday 5, Mattijana will go through. A draw would also be satisfactory as Mattijana have a higher goal difference than the Vannish.

[Somecoldwetislands]

"Hello and welcome to SCWITV, coming right up, excitement is building as the football kicks-off once against with the Soggy Islanders facing Flardania. On the edge of your seat? I know I am"
*Cool pre-football theme music*

"Hello and welcome to our coverage of the Cup of Harmony, with me Suave Katie. One win, one loss so far for the Soggy Islanders, but will they be able to pull off a shock today? The opponents are Flardania, a team who have some fairly solid experience in the World Cup and who missed out only on the last match day. Before we dive into this game though, let's look back at the Soggy Islanders last fixture, a historic win against Pridnestrovia."

*Cut to highlight reel*

"Daddy Dave has the ball, passes it through the defenders legs! Crinkly Joe on the ball, only the keeper, he shoots... GOAL! 1-0 after just 12 minutes, Joe made a great run to carve the defence open, firing the ball in from the left of the box. 1-0 to the Soggy Islanders.

***

"Red Peter's making a run, PAST THE LAST DEFENDER HE HAS TO SHOOT NOW. WAIT. Oooooo. That was a crunching tackle, Nochevski made an attempt on the ball but he's taken Peter down hard. So hard Peter's leg has come off, I never realised it had so many wires it in, clearly not made of flesh and blood and gunk like the rest of him. That's yellow for Nochevski, seems somewhat lenient. Red Peter is subbed off to have his leg screwed back in. Diddy Dave to take the free kick, AT GOAL, IT'S IN! It deflected off Soggy James' head and went in, the goal is going to James."

***

"Well just ten minutes left here and with a two goal lead the Soggy Islanders look to be taking their first victory in this competition. Hoofed up the pitch and off Funar as he cleared it from Herman. Corner here, could be a chance for the Islanders to put the game completely to bed. In the middle, IN OFF COOL SIMON'S HEAD. 3-0, this has to have been one of the Islander's most commanding displays to date, such pace and organisation that it actually seems pretty wildly out of character."

*In the studio*

"Well there we go, a commanding display last time out. I'm joined by Madame Bubbles and Happy Dave, do you two think that this bodes well for the team?"

MB: "Oh yeeeeeeeeeeees darling. We have seen such... graaaaaaaace, such... eeeeeeeeeelegance from the side as off late. One really does find it hard to recognise them from the players of just a feeeew short months ago."

HD: "Well I agree 'ere, theys been fantastic they has, no praise too lavish. From tha' win back in qualifying against HUElavia the team hasn't looked like losing. They've been consistent, persistent and attack resistant."

SK: "So do you both think they could be in danger of pulling off a shock today?"

MB: "Well daaaaaarling, one does not like to speculate, but one could see them making a jolly of it."

SK: "Hmm, okay, don't really know what you mean there, but Happy Dave?"

HD: "Well, not to be too much the optimist 'ere, but I cans sees them making a good ol' go of it I could."

SK: "Wonderful, well over to the commentary teamof Jenny T. Books and Unhappy Dave for the first half as the Soggy Islanders kick-off against Flardania."

***

JTB: "Thanks Katie and here we are on a day with weather in Qasden. News has come that they've been knocked out of the World Cup, so local interest in this match has piqued in this city who's name has not been disclosed quite yet. Anyway, Flardania stepping up to kick-off with Yabuta taking the ball. So, Unhappy Dave, how do you think this match will pan out?"

UD: "Not to drag the mood down but I think it probably won't be much good."

JTB: "How bad do you think it'll be?"

UD: "Worse than death."

***

UD: "Flardania are moving the ball much better than us here, no surprises."

JTB: "But the Soggy Islanders are so far holding out well, here comes Yabuta, passes it out to the wing, Izumi takes it, crosses, Ichikawa is on the end of it... in in the corner, Obese William couldn't get his fingers to it."

UD: "Well that's probably our campaign over with then *sigh*."

43 minutes

UD: "Coming up to half-time and no real hope, the Islanders seem to just be pinned down in their final third slowing up the attack. Old Granny Sherry takes the ball down the wing."

JTB: "She's moving it confidently then, moving very swiftly for a woman of her age."

UD: "Certainly more swiftly than she used to during the first half of qualifying."

JTB: "Indeed, she puts it across, Herman's on it, he kicks it up high. Keeper, Friar Johnathan and Fujisaka all underneath it, it's coming down, JOHNATHAN GETS TO IT, IT'S IN! It's trickled in, 1-1 and the Soggy Islanders have levelled things up."

UD: "Bet they blow their lead soon. By the way, I think I might have cancer."

JTB: "What?"

UD: "I've got a new mole it's oddly shaped."

JTB: "Where is it?"

UD: "On my back."

JTB: "Let me have a look. Wait, if it's on your back how did you notice it?"

UD: "Daily Mole check."

JTB: "Oh."

UD: "What do you reckon anyway?"

JTB: "Bleeding crickey!"

UD: "That bad?"

JTB: "Happy, I mean, that's the wrong kind of mole. It's not part of you, you won't have cancer."

UD: "Oh. What is the type that does mean that?"

JTB: "It's a sort of small mark on your skin, dark red in colour, not a furry animal that lives underground."

UD: "Oh."

JTB: "Hold on, there's cheering, what's just happened?"

UD: "Looks like Herman is celebrating?"

JTB: "I'll rewind a bit. OH SHOOT HERMAN SCORED FROM KICK OFF. He does a run right through the centre of defence before blasting home, all by himself. Can't believe I've missed that, that's Cup of Harmony history for us right there, the Soggy Islanders take the lead right before the break!"

UD: "Depressing that we missed that."

88 minutes

JTB: "Well there isn't long left and the Soggy Islanders seem to be maintaining a narrow lead for the minute. It really is edge of your seat action."

UD: "I'm resigned to us losing, that's how things always end. *Sigh*."

JTB: "Flardania moving the ball around here well, they look dangerous. Ball kicked up from the halfway line, Yabuta has it in the box... SAVED! Yabuta took the shot, Obese William blocks it! Ball comes out of the area, that was very close there and really out of character for such a talented player to stuff up a shot like that. Soggy Islanders moving now, Diddy Dave has made a run down the pitch, he's at the halfway line, Daddy Dave on the overlap. HE'S CUT PAST MIYAMOTO, PAST FUJISAKA AND NGUYEN, SHOOTS! CURLS IT IN! IT'S IN IT'S 3-1 THE SOGGY ISLANDERS HAVE THIS GAME IN THE BAG! Massive celebrations on the touchline here for the Soggy Island players, they've secured a famous win against a talented opposition!"

UD: "Wow I really didn't see this one coming."

JTB: "And with things sown up the referee calls an end to the match, 30 seconds early, what a result! Back to you Katie."

*In the Studio*

SK: "Well I'm lost for words, Happy Dave's lost for word's and Madame Bubbles is as well. This is one of the best results the Soggy Islanders have picked up, a highly ranked opponent defeated in style and the knockout stages of the Cup of Harmony move a little closer. What made the difference today guys?"

MB: "Daaaaaaaarling that was the SINGLE best footballing spectacle one has ever seen. One must say, the performance was all round outstanding."

HD: "Ooo aaaar, what a FANTASTIC result, bes' I did ever see. Daddy Dave there made a spectacular goal at the en', 'e really wanted it, 'e always wants to be doin' it thar for the team. I can'ts believe that result."

SK: "For me, I think what made this was the pace on the wings, if you look at the movement of the Full-Backs especially it comes on in leaps and bounds."

HD: "Oh definitely, jus' look at how there Old Granny Sherry 'as spear'eaded some of our best movements, she set up the equaliser there in stunnin' fashion."

SK: "Well there doesn't seem much to say, that's a fantastic victory for the side, and one that puts them square on top of their group with just one game to play. Before we go, Beany Timothy is interviewing Friar Johnathan."

***

Beany: "Pleased with the result Friar?"

Friar: "Oh yes, beyond pleased, this is the best possible result we could have hoped for and we're now in a very strong position."

Beany: "The performance we saw today was outstanding, the team seems in good form, especially compared to how it started World Cup Qualification. Almost as if they'd been replaced with android or something mad like that!"

Friar: "Whaaaaaat? No, who would do such a thing? That's mad. Pfft. Don't throw around such ridiculous accusation here."

Beany: "Erm, that was kind of a joke Friar."

Friar: "OH RIGHT, yes, well good. Because they're definitely not androids. Definitely. Let's drop that whole matter now. Anyway, improvements with the training routine has really helped them come on, that and eating bananas!"

Beany: "Well that's wonderful there Friar. How are you feeling about the final game against Equestrian States?"

Friar: "At this point, the opponents don't matter. We need at least a point to secure our place in the next round, and get at least a point we shall."

Beany: "Thanks for you time father, good luck! Oh and hope you're not all androids!"

Friar: "Hahahah, yeah, well, we're not androids, OK, all human. Great. Yeah. Bye."

***

SK: "Well some weird chat about androids there, but regardless a famous victory, including a scrappy goal from the Friar. Hopefully this form will carry over until next time around when we face Equestrian States. We'll be with you in a few days for all the build-up, action and reaction to that game. So until, stay football!"

[Trans-Dniesters]

ПРИДНЕСТРОВСКАЯ ЦЕНТРАЛЬНАЯ НОВОСТИ АГЕНЦИЯ
PRIDNESTROVSKAYA TSENTRALNAYA NOVOSTI AGENTSIYA
PRIDNESTROVIAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY

PRIDNESTROVIA DRAWS WITH EQUESTRIAN STATES TO OPEN CUP OF HARMONY 71 CAMPAIGN
By Gustav Tyumenov


Peter Schermer celebrates scoring a goal against the Equestrian States in the 71st Cup of Harmony in Qasden and Ethane. Schermer's goal was canceled out late in the second half by Thunderlane for an eventual 1-1 result.

QASDEN - The Pridnestrovian men's national football team secured a vital point against the Equestrian States in a tough and contested match-up where the people of Pridnestrovia saw both the best and the worst of the new style of football that new Pridnestrovian men's national football team manager Gaëtano Bernardeschi has instilled into the team and the players. It could be argued that Pridnestrovia could very well have won the game against the Equestrians thanks to their impressive defensive display even as the Equestrians finally managed to unlock the team's defense and snatched a point away from what could arguably said as a deserved three points for the Red Army.

Bernardeschi's appointment as the manager of the Pridnestrovian men's national football team appeared to have paid off almost immediately as Pridnestrovia took the lead almost immediately after kickoff, and it was one of the simple long ball plays that was a hallmark of Bernardeschi's playstyle that opened up the game for Peter Schermer, who chested down the clearance from Ferdinand Abbing to strike home right in front of the Equestrian States keeper and give the Pridnestrovian Republic a vital and important lead. But Bernardeschi and his men also showed that Pridnestrovia could still be the offensive threat that they used to be under the early days of Werner Ceausescu's management as the team also made use of their potent forward threat to try to edge the game in their favor, and it nearly worked. Boyan Radev was put through on goal by a smart ball from Vladislav Bogomolov, and it was only thanks to the lightning sharp reflexes of Gentle Breeze that the Equestrian States didn't go 2-0 down within 20 minutes of the game.

This wasn't to say that the Equestrians were completely silenced in the game. They had their chances in the first half too, the most notable being Pristina Shine's belter at 31 minutes and Krysia Bailey heading into the crossbar from a corner kick. Pridnestrovia had yet another chance to double their advantage with a free kick by Vladislav Bogomolov, who nevertheless failed to convert the opportunity once again.

Chances for Pridnestrovia became fewer and rarer in the second half as the game progressed, and Equestrian States slowly but steadily began applying the pressure on the Red Army. Of course, it could be said that this was exactly what Gaëtano Bernardeschi wanted the opposition to do, and it was one such spell of pressure from the Equestrians that Pridnestrovia almost scored that long overdue second goal, and once again it was Boyan Radev who raced clear of the Equestrian defensive line and forced Gentle Breeze intom making another great save.

The defensive solidity that Gaëtano Bernardeschi had instilled into this Pridnestrovian team seemed set to bring them three vital points against a great and respected opponent in the Cup of Harmony, but there were points where it was too good to last, and with only three minutes of normal time left to go, Pridnestrovia was returned to reality. Thunderlane, who had already made a nuisance of himself harrassing the Pridnestrovian defense, finally struck home a wonderful header and equalizer to bring cheers to the hearts of Equestrian fans, showing them that their team was notm yet as poor as some would have thought. Pridnestrovia, meanwhile, would be left rueing all the missed chances that they had that could have ended up being the second and decisive goal in their favor.


Pridnestrovian men's national football team manager Gaëtano Bernardeschi: The team earned a good result against a great team

Pridnestrovian men's national football team manager Gaëtano Bernardeschi: "It was a good result for the team. It was a battling game, a hard-fought game. Both teams wanted to take all three points. We could have had all three points, you know. The points were very much in the bag for us. Then Equestria did what people in my country would call a 'Bernardeschi' and literally stole a point from under our noses. But I guess I can't complain too much seeing as I've done it quite a few times in the [Fleftic] Premier League. It was a fine performance by the lads."

EQUESTRIAN STATES 1 - 1 PRIDNESTROVIA
THUNDERLANE (87')       SCHERMER (5')

ABANHFLEFT
GK: 1 Abbing █
RB: 2 Tymoshenko (Kardashenko - 85')
CB: 3 Vasilyev
LB: 4 Vadimenko █
RM: 7 Polzin
RCM: 6 Wasylyk █
CDM: 5 Funar
LCM: 10 Bogomolov
LM: 8 Pajari (Larionov █ - 72')
RS: 11 Radev (Davidov - 83')
LS: 9 Schermer

EQUESTRIAN STATES
GK: 1 Gentle Breeze
RB: 19 Bailey
CB: 8 Molovi (Iburrusteta - 70')
LB: 12 Hamilton
RM: 5 Apple Cobbler
RCM: 14 Stardust (Poole - 75')
LCM: 11 Krystal
LM: 16 Luminesce
CAM: 9 Rainbow Blitz
RS: 10 Pristina Shine (Wither █ - 80')
LS: 7 Thunderlane

MATCH STATISTICS
Possession
Equestrian States: 58%
Pridnestrovia: 42%
Shots
Equestrian States: 20 (10 on target)
Pridnestrovia: 5 (3 on target)
Corners
Equestrian States: 7
Pridnestrovia: 5
Fouls
Equestrian States: 15
Pridnestrovia: 23

[Darmen]

OOC: Once again, all of these happen prior to the CoH.

Saturday, July 7, 1832
TO: Mr. Bradley Garner, Chairman of Liverpool Iron Works
FROM: Mr. Cedar Ó Gallchobhair, Chairman of Liverpool & North Railroad
TOPIC: A Technological Leap

Mr. Garner, as of my last letter to you, we had not yet found a way to transport the vast amounts of iron from the mines to the south of the city to your foundry. Our horse drawn containers proved to be inadequate to carry the heavy loads of iron you needed. However, we now have a way.

Just yesterday, an important invention arrived from the British Isles by ship to Liverpool Harbor. It is called a "Steam Locomotive" and is far more powerful than any team of horses. When we have it operational, which should be within a week of this letter, we will finally be able to haul the iron into the city from the mines with little effort. I hope you'll be pleased.

Please also note that His Royal Majesty the Duke will be traveling here, along with some members of his government, to see the locomotive in operation. We plan on having the Duke, yourself and an engineer from Britain operate the locomotive as it hauls its first load. I do hope this is agreeable to you.

Friday, March 17, 2028
TO: Mitchell Hellewege
FROM: Georges Thomas
TOPIC: Our Country Needs a Hero, and I know just the Guy

Mitchell, I'm dying. I know, I know, its a bit harsh to give you the news just like that, but I'm short on time.

Darmen has been split for far too long, and if things continue the way they are, Darmen will no longer exist after much longer. My goal of unifying Darmen has been hampered at every turn by every possible opposition. No one will listen to me. I doubt they would listen to you either.

There is only one person that Darmen will listen to. He doesn't talk much, but with a little prodding from you, I'm sure he can accomplish the impossible and draw Darmen back together again. His name is Tor Tong Lee.

Yes, I know, he's a footballer, not a politician. But in times like these, that's exactly what Darmen needs. Someone outside of the established order (or, since the fall of the kingdom the lack of order) to grab everyone's ear and get us back on track.

You'll find him in Eura, he's coaching the Darmeni XI in the Copa Rushmori. Talk to him, tell him what he needs to do. And if he doesn't agree, bring him to me. Better yet,
just bring him to me. I'll talk some sense into him.

Tuesday, March 20, 2040
TO: President of the Republic Tor Tong Lee
FROM: Simón Bryson, Director of Athletics, St. Andrew's North School
TOPIC: Goldschmidt's Gift

I'm writing to you today, Mr. President, at the request of one of your cabinet members, Nur al Din Lambert. Recently he nominated Alberich Goldschmidt to receive the Order of Darmen as an award for his donations to school sports programs around the nation. As one of the beneficiaries of his generosity (I believe you would agree that this is a truly Darmeni virtue), I would like to add my name to those who wish to have Goldschmidt nominated for the award.

My school in Southeastern Chuckio County has over 1,600 students, but our funding has been extremely low for the past few years. Our sports programs, of which we have several, have had extremely minimal funding. Our basketball program completed its season last year on a budget of only $200. With Goldschmidt's gift to our football program, we'll be able to readjust our budgets for the other sports, in many cases tripling or quadrupling them.

With Goldschmidt's donation, we are planning on buying new goals, new kits, and getting the field markings repainted. This gift is an answer to mine, and I'm sure many parents and students, prayers, and we will be forever grateful to Mr. Goldschmidt for his gift. I would greatly appreciate it if you would award him the Order of Darmen in recognition of his donation.

[South Toronto]

URGENT NEWS! SOUTH TORONTO TAKEN OVER BY A MILITIAIRY COUP!

Written by professional match reviewer Addiy Azeezy Abashed.

A civil war has now ensued in South Toronto as the new government, Atarasukin, has now began killing former politicians, various news reporters, and prisoners including our late glorious leader Tiberius Pognam. New leader Tobi Obirito is extremely unpopular across the country as now South Toronto has no elections for politicians, instead they are selected 'randomly' within the Atarasukin. Under the new regime, religious practise is outlawed and those who still worship or object to the new law will be publicly executed. It is now the Atarasukin versus the rest of South Toronto, and the leader has a whole arsenal of chemical and biological warfare that he won't hesitate to use against his own people. The former government, Raykain were much more lenient but were overthrown by military leader Tobi Obirito as he was planning a coup all along against Tiberius. The amount of horrific crimes in just under 12 hours committed by his men is disgusting, and without a military representing the people, it's likely our economy will implode and 98% of South Torontons will be poor while the 2% will hold all the power in the nation.

It is unlikely for the Iscantan Mereadas Zeradadas to return to the country at this time, because if they exit the tournament prematurely, a likely nation that they will reside in the mean time is Filindostan, as South Toronto and Filindostan have a strong bond with each other. If Filindostan decline, a evacuation into the Island Of Anthiarte will be likely to happen. Any national teams who play us, please show your support for the downfall of this awful regime in whatever way you can, we would appreciate you greatly for protesting against this morally wrong regime. The next game versus Aggrey-Fynn Land will see the movement #FreeOurStates be fully supported from a South Toronton point of view, and hopefully some Aggrey-Fynn Land fans joining our protest. Nevertheless, Axel is focused on the football and is looking to get at least a draw to stay in the Cup of Harmony. The squad will b extra determined to represent their country. The future looks bleak for South Toronto as a period of uncertainty spreads throughout the nation.

[Osarius]

Heading into their fourth and final game of the Cup of Harmony group stage, Osarius' progress is entirely in their own hands. Win, and they go through. It's that simple. Quietly, Brent Steele's Firebirds have embarked on a remarkable nineteen game unbeaten run since their narrow 3-2 defeat in Farris Crowley Memorial Stadium early in World Cup qualifying, and could feasibly shatter the record set by Jermain Lewis' eventual World Champions some eighteen years ago. "We haven't even considered [breaking the record]," Brent Steele claims. "As things stand, we might not get out of the group stage, so that's the main concern here. A couple of disappointing draws have made things difficult for us, but we still control our own destiny, which is a good thing."

The disappointing draws he speaks of are... rather disappointing, to be fair. No disrespect to Aggrey-Fynn Land, but Osarius' failure to come away with a win, after dominating the first half, is nothing short of a huge disappointment. It was a similar story against current group leaders, United States of Devonta -- who could still be eliminated if both Osarius, and South Toronto, their opponents yesterday, win in two days' time. While Brent Steele correctly pointed out post-game that Osarius have never beaten Devonta outside of Mount Crown Stadium, a goalless draw was not the result you'd expect from a team boasting three of the better attacking players in what is arguably the best league in the world. Critics, again, point the finger at Steele.

"He's too defensive-minded," claims Tyrell Hamilton. The OSN pundit had strong words for Steele following his tactical switch against Aggrey-Fynn Land, which arguably cost Osarius the win. "The shift in focus to protecting the lead, rather than bringing in Lloyd Allen for Urso after the head injury, or even giving Serra freedom to push up a bit more... It was a mistake. The Fynns didn't press aggressively, so there was little opportunity for a counter, and it highlighted Steele's overly cautious nature. You could see the players weren't happy either, curtailing their attacking instincts. Steele is just not aggressive enough, and it's costing the team."

The win over South Toronto keeps Osarius alive in the Cup of Harmony -- a tournament the Firebirds have traditionally not fared well in, incidentally -- but still contained enough signs for concern to lead to alleged talks at OFA headquarters. "There are rumours that the OFA is becoming concerned that the fans will turn on the team in the absence of entertaining football," claims Ruby Mazon, a reporter with The Northern Shield. "The national identity has been exciting attacking football for years. The fans turned off the cautious defensive football in recent times, and only came back when it looked like the team was getting stronger, and going back to the World Cup. Disappointing football at the World Cup is acceptable, but at the Cup of Harmony? Not so much."

Years of dining at football's top table have spoiled the fans, it seems. Brent Steele seems unconcerned, though. "People talk about the fans not being happy, but the fans will be happy if we win. It's that simple. Nobody ever complained about Jermain Lewis' team being boring when they were grinding out narrow wins. They were enjoying the ride. The wins." He said. "My job is to manage this team to wins. Failing that, we avoid losing. I think I'm doing that job pretty well."

[Soltsteed]

---

New Sarum
MD5

---

“I think our biggest concern is dying in an explosion, because we’re metaphorically setting Ethane on fire,” Emmet said with a slightly smug laugh in the press conference room. “I hate to toot my own horn, but not a single goal has got past me thus far. A lot of that is down to stupid luck and a lot of it is down to the quality of our back five. I couldn’t have done it alone, but I’ll enjoy this record while it lasts.”

Another reporter popped out of his seat to query the Soltsteedish captain: “Are you preparing for a Round of 16 match yet?”

“We’re taking nothing for granted,” Emmet bluntly replied. “When they are good, Omerica are incredible. And as they themselves admit, when they are bad, Omerica are complete shit. It’s a coin toss as to which Omerica we’ll get, but we’re not in the clear yet, so we’re not taking any chances. We’re playing against Omerica like it is a knockout match.”

Out on the streets, a light dusting of snow couldn’t stop the Soltsteedish from partying. Three games, zero goals conceded, six goals from the likes of Emma Gryndhout and company. Why would a Soltsteeder party?

Bound up in a jacket, Stephen was enjoying the ambience. His boyfriend had bought them plane tickets to Ethane and a set of tickets to Soltsteed’s match against Omerica.

“I don’t know about that, Jorgen,” Stephen said with a chuckle on his throat. “Barzetti is pretty good. Don’t forget the rumours that Cherrygrove and SIS are scouting her as we speak.”

“But she is Omerican,” Jorgen stated bluntly. “Odds are she will choke when put under pressure. Even the most rabid Omerican admits that is a problem with them.”

A voice from behind suddenly appeared, speaking in slightly accented, but remarkably fluent, Soltsteedish. “He is right. We do choke most of the time.”

“That is pretty good Soltsteedish for a foreigner,” Jorgen replied, impressed by the random Omerican’s linguistic skills.

“You get pretty good at picking up languages in Omerica,” the stranger replied. “Soltsteedish is not that much different from English or Dutch, so it was not hard.”

The three smirked in unison, giggling as they continued on their way.

“Liam,” the stranger proclaimed in his native language. “Orangeshire born and raised.”

“There are a lot of Dutch speakers there if I’m not mistaken,” Stephen said in slightly stumbling English.

“Yeah. It’s pretty easy to immerse yourself near the southern border. There’s still some Dutch speakers in eastern Côte-Verte as well, despite the government once trying to stamp the language out.”

“Forgive me for not knowing a lot of Omerican geography, but I will pretend to know what you’re talking about,” Jorgen announced in jest. “How did you pick up your Soltsteedish?”

“Don’t worry about that, few people do,” Liam jocularly proclaimed before switching back to Soltsteedish. “I spent a year in Eswelle back in university. It’s awfully warm there, but it was great. It was devastating when we were drawn against you.”

There was a slight pause, before Liam chimed in again: “I don’t recall getting your names.”

“I’m Jorgen and this is Stephen. We’re here from Port Michael as his birthday gift.”

“Nice. I cannot wait for you guys to pummel us into the dust.”

“I doubt it will be that bad,” Stephen said. “You have Barzetti and Bolton and they are not bad, so you will probably score one or two against us.”

“Fair point. Doesn’t change the fact that Ferdinand is at the top of his game right now and Gryndhout and De Marcht are both frankly better than Barzetti.”

“I will concede the point.”

“It is a matter of whether we lose or draw, really. Either way, it won’t surprise me.”

“I have to say,” said Jorgen, “I am increasingly coming around to Omerica at the days go out. Your win against Yesopalitha was a great match.”

“Nice to hear. I’m already rooting for you at AOCAF. And if you are ever in Orangeshire, I would be happy to show you some of the sights.”

“How much have I told you I love you?” Stephen said in a hushed whisper to his significant other.

“I don’t think you have today,” Jorgen audibly declared with a gusty chuckle.

Liam chimed in with a “You may want to fix that,” winking as he spoke.

[Ethane]

Match Day Five Cutoff - Groups A-D
RP Prompt: A kid's club gone wrong. (This is only to give you ideas to RP and following or not following the prompt will not affect your RP Bonus in any way.)

---

RESULTS

Group A
Bojikistan 1–1 Anthor
Omerica 1–1 Soltsteed

Group A                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Soltsteed                     4   2  2  0    7   1  +6    8
2 Anthor                        4   2  1  1    8   8   0    7
3 Bojikistan                    4   1  2  1    5   6  −1    5
4 Omerica                       4   1  1  2    7   7   0    4
5 Yesopalitha                   4   0  2  2    4   9  −5    2

Group B
South Toronto 2–2 Aggrey-Fynn Land
Bostopia 1–5 Osarius

Group B                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Osarius                       4   2  2  0    7   2  +5    8
2 South Toronto                 4   2  1  1   10   7  +3    7
3 United States of Devonta      4   2  1  1    4   3  +1    7
4 Aggrey-Fynn Land              4   0  3  1    4   5  −1    3
5 Bostopia                      4   0  1  3    4  12  −8    1

Group C
Lisander 2–2 Buyan
Dunnes 3–7 Darmen

Group C                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Buyan                         4   3  1  0   11   4  +7   10
2 Darmen                        4   2  1  1   12   8  +4    7
3 Lisander                      4   1  2  1    7   7   0    5
4 YueZhou                       4   1  1  2    3   4  −1    4
5 Dunnes                        4   0  1  3    5  15 −10    1

Group D
Amazonesta 0–1 Taeshan

Group D                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Natanians and Nosts           3   2  1  0    7   2  +5    7
2 Eastfield Lodge               3   1  2  0    8   6  +2    5
3 Taeshan                       3   1  0  2    3   5  −2    3
4 Amazonesta                    3   0  1  2    4   9  −5    1

[Equestrian States]

Pristina Shine's Brace Sees Ponies Past Banija
by Steve McNotapony

Equestrian States 2-0 Banija
at Moriardi Square in Destiny, Qasden
Attendance: 75,500
Scoring:
Pristina Shine '8 (Cloudchaser)
Pristina Shine '47 (Brix Hamilton)

DESTINY, Qasden - The Ponies came off their bye knowing that they would need to win against Banija to realistically hold any chance of advancing and entered their match with the Kadongo Kamu determined to quell their supporters' fears of another underperforming Equestrian Cup of Harmony squad. A draw would leave the Equestrian States needing results elsewhere to go their favor, and manager Pearly White was adamant ahead of the match that the Ponies must control their own destiny.

Gentle Breeze had been the heroine in the Equestrians' draw with top-seeded Flardania, but the Ponies' attack had not emerged unscathed by criticism as they failed to create enough chances to give the Equestrian States a realistic shot of winning that match. Pristina Shine clearly took her criticisms personally as she came out of the gate flying against Banija, seemingly determined to crush the Equestrians' southwestern neighbors on her own, if needed. Her first shot on target came a mere two minutes into the match, forcing a diving save from Delbin Kasekende; but six minutes later, her second shot proved too much for Kasekende to handle, her 20-yard effort arcing out of the reach of the Banijan keeper before rattling off the crossbar into the net.

For Ponies supporters, the early goal was a massive relief given the Equestrian States' slow starts in their first two matches, and being able to play with a lead for the first time in the tournament seemed to give the Ponies themselves a boost as well. The Equestrians dominated the first half, subjecting Kasekende to a relentless barrage of shots that was never going to be survivable for long. Sure enough, just 72 seconds into the second half, Pristina Shine found the back of the net again, this time volleying a cross from Brix Hamilton past Kasekende before the Banijan even had a chance to react.

With their lead now doubled, the Ponies seemed content to see out the rest of the match comfortably holding back an increasingly desperate Kadongo Kamu attack, quick to strike on the counter whenever the Banijans stretched themselves too thin in their hopeless drive for a goal to get themselves back into the game. Pristina Shine nearly claimed her hat trick on one such counterattack, but was denied by a goal line clearance from Banijan captain George Wangolo. When the whistle blew, the Equestrian States still held their two-goal lead and another clean sheet against a team with a reputation for scoring plenty of goals.

  Group F                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts        MD4 Results:
1  Somecoldwetislands       3   2  0  1    6   2  +4    6         Flardania 1–3 Somecoldwetislands 
2  Equestrian States        3   1  2  0    3   1  +2    5        @ Stade de Solis in Fyre, QAS
3  Flardania                3   1  1  1    5   6  -1    4         Equestrian States 2–0 Banija 
4  Pridnestrovia            3   1  1  1    3   4  -1    4        @ Moriardi Square in Destiny, QAS
5  Banija                   4   1  0  3    4   8  −4    3   E    Bye:  Pridnestrovia
  Flardania (5) ahead of Pridnestrovia (3) on goals for

Meanwhile, in Fyre, the insanity of Group F continued with 105th-ranked Somecoldwetislands absolutely stunning 19th-ranked Flardania 3-1 in a result that few would've predicted before the tournament but hardly seems surprising anymore in a group that has been far from predictable. That result sees the Soggy Islanders take the lead in the table entering the final day of play, one point ahead of the Equestrian States, whom they will face in their final game. Pridnestrovia and Flardania, meanwhile, are just two points off the top and both still remain in contention for Group F's two second round berths. For the Ponies, a win over the Soggy Islanders would see them claim the group title, while a draw or loss would leave them needing results elsewhere to go in their favor, something that cannot be relied upon in such a mad group.

---

Match Report :: Match Day 4

 EQUESTRIAN STATES 2–0 BANIJA 
Moriardi Square (cap. 75,500) in Destiny, Qasden

Scoring:
 Pristina Shine '8 (Cloudchaser)
 Pristina Shine '47 (Brix Hamilton)

Starting XI:
GK - Gentle Breeze
CB - Brix Hamilton
CB - Andrea Molovi
CB - Rumble
LM - Krystal
CM - Cloudchaser (C)
CM - Luminesce
RM - Stardust
AM - Rainbow Blitz
ST - Pristina Shine
ST - Wither

Substitutions:
 Apple Cobbler in for Luminesce '45
 Flitter in for Rumble '59
 Rosie Tyler in for Krystal '77

[Flardania]

Opening Theme

---

Bonjour et Ohayōgozaimasu Kirishima. Welcome ladies and gentleman to the Cup of Harmony 71 edition of the Kitsune Report, brought to you by the Nagatomo Sports Network (NSN), sponsored by Air Pacifica, and Pocari Surge. Here at the Kitsune Report, it's all about Kirishinan sports. With a single matchday remaining and the temperature set to max, you can't help but feel your knees buckle at the pressure. I'm your host, the fan you can count on the most, to bring you Kitsune news, Keitaaaaaaa Woo! Without any further delay let's get grooving to some Cup of Harmony football!

Kirishima 1–3 Somecoldwetislands Review:

The Kitsunes seem keen on trying out every single result in this tournament. After starting the Cup of Harmony with a bye, followed by a draw with Equestrian States, the Kitsunes won a narrow match with Banija to lead the Group, a scenario where they simply needed a win against a weaker but very much in form opposition. In a match that can be described as the same lack of drive and form that has unfortunately has been the status quo for the Kitsunes as of late, it can also be described as a ridiculous stretch of bad luck and fortune. The score line seemingly tells this story and more.

Kirishima actually did not start the game sluggish for a nice refreshing change of pace. It was great to see the team trying to remain focused but it almost as if they had other responsibilities in life as of late. A trait that often happens when a team grinds into a top 25 position as seen with Equestrian States, Buyan, Unified Sunrise Islands, and most recently San Jose Guayabal. A fate you never want to see befall the Kitsunes but nonetheless does make sense. However with that said the Kitsunes did start the match with their best foot forward with a couple of early chances. The Kitsunes in the opening minutes had better ball movement and stayed in control of possession. Not only did the Kitsunes keep on to the ball but they made the opposition goal keeper work hard and were finally rewarded in the 22' minute. Josuke Ichikawa would find the bottom of the net after an assist from Ako Izumi to put the Kitsunes up 1-0. The Kitsunes carried that energy in their attempts to score another goal seeking to gain a two goal advantage over their opponents. The opposition however were not to be underestimated as they have shown a good run of form throughout the entire tournament and Friar Johnathan got a goal in the 43' minute besting both Hojo and Fujisaka to score the goal and set the match even at one goal apiece.

It was a truly impressive goal but also the most deserved of the oppositions three goals. Why might you add? Well not long after the opposition scored they scored immediately afterwards from kickoff. Now you may be asking yourself, what sense that makes no team no matter how minnow let alone top 25 would allow a goal that easily outside of a Hollywood B sports movie or some fan fiction resembling the content you see involving Frozen and Spider-Man....ugh. Funny, thing is you would be right to find the idea of that goal to be unbelievable and wise to find the idea of the goal being clean and legal to be an insult. Why, you ask again? Well last time I check when the team line up for the kickoff the team that was scored on performs the first touch after the referee blows the whistle. Explain to me how Herman ze German, wait that's not right even though it is a fine eatry, Herman the Hermit was able to cross the circle take the ball and score without the referee starting play or the Kitsunes having first touch? The Kitsunes obviously did not take the solo run to the goal seriously but the Kitsunes fans lost it when the goal stood and rightfully so. I was so confused and I wanted to give the opposition the benefit of the doubt so I checked the broadcast of SCWITV....THEY WERE CONFUSED TOO!!!! Well all I can say is Seong Mi-Soo, it's time to pack your bags because when divine intervention strikes and breaks the rules of football while getting away with it. Clearly the Goddess Kamiya wants you out as manager.

In the second half the Kitsunes were still livid but determined to even up the match that should of still been a tie. Except the Kitsunes struggled against the in form squad during the second half as playing from behind after such conditions is tough. Finally in the 88' minute Yabuta missed a look which led Daddy Dave towards the greatest goal of his career as he cut past three quality defenders and curled a shot past Hojo for the goal. Daddy Dave practically earned a top contract with a Champions Cup title contending team with that play. Ref would blow the whistle 30 seconds early to a roar from Kitsune fans and once again rightfully so. 0 seconds due to no whistle is plenty time for the opposition to score but 30 seconds is not enough for the Kitsune to attempt to narrow the goal differential. Final score Kirishima 1, Somecoldwetislands 3.

Following the match, a very upset Seong Mi-Soo, had this to say after the game. "Robbery. that second goal was robbery but at the end of the day we lost. The final score was 3-1 which means they scored two goals of their own merit and therefore even if you subtract that goal we still loss. Could the flow of the game have been different of course but if we want to be truly seen as talented we can't let madness like that throw us off the game. If we played our way we wouldn't be in that position and now we don't have complete control over our destiny anymore. With that said I am proud of the team. We recognized the urgency of the game and we played. Now we are in a situation where we need to win to stay alive. Can it be done? I think so, our next opponents...we debuted in the same BOF so we have some ancient history that may be rekindled. We both need a win to survive so it will be tough but we will be ready. You will not be able to say that we did not put all our effort into our final group match and we will take the lessons from this loss into the next match. Don't leave yourself in position or at risk of being screwed."

Kirishima 1-3 Somecoldwetislands 
J.Ichikawa(22') F.Johnathan(43')    
                H.Hermit(43')
                D.Dave(88')

Pridnestrovia v Kirishima Match Preview

Drama will be the word of the day as all the remaining teams of Group F outside of Banjia have a chance to advance to the round of 16 and they also all have a chance to lose it. Somecoldwetislands will go up against Equestrian States and Pridnestrovia will go up against Kirishima. I am not going to waste my time going into all the many different scenarios needed for the Kitsunes to advance as they only need one and only have one to play for. The win. As regardless of anything that occurs in the other match, the Kitsunes will advance. I don't like making predictions and I won't here but I think the Kitsunes have what it takes to advance because if they Kitsunes are truly a talented squad like I believe them to be they will respond appropriately to their previous defeat at the hands of Somecoldwetislands. Overcoming adversity is the mark of greatness and if the Kitsunes can't overcome the odds and take advantage of their final opportunity of the cycle, there will be ramifications including the regrettable termination of Seong's services and a new manager who should return the Kitsunes to where they should be albeit from a more difficult start position. The key for the next game will be hustle, seizure of an early lead and increasing said lead in an attempt to control momentum. Until next time, Lets Go Kitsunes!

Post by: Keita Woo

[Qasden]

MD5 CUTOFF - Qasdonian Side

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RP Prompt: It's the final cutoff for you. For today's prompt, write the legend of a survivor. It can be a person or a nation, whatever you feel is right. (Following or Not Following the prompt won't cause the change in RP Bonus)

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Group E

Northwest Kalactin 1–1 Juvencus

Group E                         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Juvencus                        3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7
2 Filindostan                     3   1  1  1    5   6  -1    4  
3 Northwest Kalactin              3   0  3  0    4   4   0    3
4 Mercedini                       3   0  1  2    4   7  −3    1

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Group F

Somecoldwetislands 0–3 Equestrian States
Pridnestrovia 0–4 Flardania

Group F                         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Equestrian States               4   2  2  0    6   1  +5    8
2 Flardania                       4   2  1  1    9   6  +3    7
3 Somecoldwetislands              4   2  0  2    6   5  +1    6
4 Pridnestrovia                   4   1  1  2    3   8  -5    4 
5 Banija                          4   1  0  3    4   8  −4    3

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Group G

Platerdam 0–0 Coldfield
Vangaziland 0–4 Apox

Group G                         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Apox                            4   3  1  0   10   2  +8   10
2 Mattijana                       4   2  1  1    5   2  +3    7
3 Vangaziland                     4   2  0  2    4   6  -2    6
4 Coldfield                       4   1  1  2    3   5  -2    4
5 Platerdam                       4   0  1  3    0   7  -7    1

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Group H

Liberated American Provinces 1–2 Savojarna

Group H                         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 New Gazi                        3   2  1  0    5   3  +2    7
2 Savojarna                       3   1  2  0    3   2  +1    5
3 Ko-oren                         3   1  1  1    5   3  +2    4
4 Liberated American Provinces    3   0  0  3    1   6  −5    0

[Apox]

Apox 3-0 Platerdam Oakstone-Sandoval 10', Redmond 45+1', Arrowsmith 80'
APX: Steele -- Beck, Gandhi, O., Jekyll, Redmond (Belgrave 77') -- Menheniot, Townsend (Llangolan 84'), Palmisano J. (c) -- Oakstone-Sandoval (Arrowsmith 77'), Gandhi A., Vladimirescu
PLT: Jaramillo -- Bentley (c), Atkinson, Perry (Russell 77') -- Nelson, Taylor, Boyd, Scorazzi (Vidal 82') -- Ranucci, Decker (Halls 69'), Gallagher
A strong win for Apox as they dominate the game from start to finish. Alpha Gandhi immediately looks a threat up front, testing Sahel Jaramillo in the early stages of the game, before laying the ball off to Miriam Oakstone-Sandoval to score in the 10th minute. Platerdam manage to sustain a period of pressure for parts of the second half, largely through the attacking outlet of Paul Scorazzi, who comes closest to scoring, but are let down by a late Apoxian goal from Aliser Redmond, who's mazy run through midfield, one-twoing with Titan Vladimirescu before shooting past Jaramillo allows Apox to up the pressure just before the first half ends. Despite Platerdam changes throughout the second half, they cannot fin a way through the packed Apoxian defense, particularly thanks to Bryton Menheniot who shields the defense well all game, and a late goal by Winston Arrowsmith secures a fine win for the side, taking them back up to first in the group and means they only need a draw or better against Vangaziland in the final match to secure progression through to the Round of 16.

Vangaziland 0-4 Apox Palmisano 20', Parkerson OG 34', Bridges 40', Vladimirescu 85'
VNG: Chamberson -- Parkerson, Sundstorm, Dreson, Jonason -- Hjoerleif (c), Tuusen (Kristthorsson 60'), Forsman, Bennerssen (Gurson 68') -- Oskolde, Vonoss
APX: Steele -- Fox, Raynerson, Jekyll (c), Redmond -- Menheniot (Dialogue 78'), Townsend, Bridges -- Oakstone-Sandoval (Gandhi A. 70'), Palmisano L., Vladimirescu
Apox line up with a slightly rotated line-up for the final group stage match, with captain Palmisano and Alpha Gandhi rested. While facing some criticism from the press prior to the match, Luxulya St. Cleer is vindicated by another good result, which sees Apox comfortably beat a talented Vangaziland side on the day, largely through to the skill of the Apoxian players rather than any major deficiency from the Vangazi ones. Lucan Palmisano validates his inclusion in the side with a goal in the 20th minute, teed up by an Imriel Townsend long ball, before Aspen Bridges pressure on defender Danny Parkerson leads to an own goal thanks to a mishit back pass. Bridges himself sees off the game in the 40th minute with a powerful driven shot from outside the box. The second half is more of the same although the Vangazi defense, marshalled by Sundstorm and Dreson in the middle, makes scoring a much harder proposition for the Apoxians. Jadranka Steele, having a quiet game fumbles a shot from Oskolde on the hour mark, which Imhotep Jekyll does well to swiftly clear with Ed Hjoerleif rushing in. Late substitute Etzy Dialogue eventually gets a second half breakthrough by setting up Titan Vladimirescu to score as Apox progress to the knock-out stages.

[Buyan]

Algiris Micaukis tried to find a way out of his duty but realized it was his time to step in here. It was fairly silent in the bus that drove off from the Newton-Smith Arena – despite a credible second half that eliminated a courageous Lisander. The kid sat two rows in front of him and looked about a meter high anymore, trying to hide in his tracksuit as if it were a pillow fortress. It had been the kind of evening you wouldn’t wish upon your worst enemy for him and to get it on your debut…

”You’re ok there, kid?” Algiris started.
”Yeah… I guess.” came the reply.

Algiris sighed. For god’s sake, he wasn’t a captain, he wasn’t a shrink and he definitely wasn’t a nursery lady. Part of him wanted to scoot off but looking at the face of Reidar Bjelland, as it was the promising attacking midfielder who seemed huddled up in his worries, he just couldn’t rise and walk out.

”Rough night, huh.”

Now all he got back was a wild-eyed stare. What a blatant euphemism for a player who had the most horrendous forty minutes in his career. Something within Algiris always detested this kind of players. Offensive primadonnas for whom everything seemed to run smooth and calm, who just walked from success to victory at a young age already and were destined for more. Players who never had to battle for their spot, who hadn’t fled their home country. Guys who didn’t need to make their career abroad, fight against all prejudice, carve their way up slowly in a club that wasn’t considered ‘full’ instead of taking the highroad through the youth system of some high-brow talent factory. In short, all those damn fuckers who never walked in his shoes.

But then again, you wouldn’t want to be Reidar tonight. It all started off abysmally when he flunked a pass in midfield, allowing Tássio Camden to break up our unorganized defence and offer Yoann Dawson the opener. Things turned from bad to worse when he lost the aerial duel with Kaplanoski around the half-hour mark, being the prime witness to Lisanders double up – which brought them closer to the Round of Sixteen than they could’ve ever hoped. Forty minutes in, he himself asked his replacement. The reason – apart from playing so subpar, he couldn’t see the par anymore? In ye olden times, or just at the amateur level, someone might have noticed it on the bench and he would’ve been the laughing stock of the dressing room for a week or so. But at this level, with all the cameras keeping an eye on you, they quickly zoomed in on…

”See kid, let me tell you a little story here,” Algiris cleared his throat, ”when I was eleven, I was sitting on an open boat – slowly floating to Brenecia. We eventually ended up in Scaffield and… Well, life might be good there, but if you’re new and all... Most kiddos there never had seen a Buyanese in real life before – so you’re already the weirdo. Especially when you’re not capable of probably pronouncing the ‘h’ in have – I still think ‘ave sounds better, but ok. You understand?”

The least confident nod in history.

”Well,” Algiris scratched the back of his head, ”What I’m trying to say is… I had a kind of situation back in the day like yours. My teammates in the U13 weren’t too fond of me anyway – but in part, that was likewise, I guess. You’re becoming a bulldozer by practice and… I’m digressing. I’ll never forget. It was a home game and mum had made beans in tomato sauce ahead of the match. Well I love that platter, it reminds me of home with that grainy, grey bread and…”

Reidar looked a bit flustered – why exactly was a teammate more than a decade his elder rambling on about local cuisine…

”Ok, long story short, kid. The beans weren’t a good idea and I shat my pants whilst making a tackle. I wished – oh, I wished – it was a muddy day but them freaking plastic pitches.”
“What… What did you do?”

It was hardly a whisper that came out of his mouth.

”Well, I took the nickname Beanstains on the chin for about ten minutes, then I looked for the tallest guy in the squad and I knocked him out cleanly,” Algiris grinned.

Reidar chuckled and even if it was with a high-pitched, semi-sobbed sound, it at least was something, Algiris thought relieved.

”Did it work?” Reidar asked.
”I want to say to you it did… But the honest story is that whenever we meet up again, whether it’s those that still play or the guys who have long replaced their studs for a business tie or working gloves and now come to the stadium to support Scaffield… I’m still Beanstains for them. My point is, don’t bother about it. They say, shit happens, and it’s true. The point is, you prove yourself by how you handle it – because they all say it with the utmost respect. You see?”

It was a slow nod, the one of someone who clearly still had some thinking to do – but it was more than Algiris had hoped for.

”So I leave you with that and… Oh, don’t go knocking down the tallest guy – Bo will be pretty pissed if you do so, ok?”
“Alright, Beanstains,” he smiled.
”But if you say that word once more,” Algiris muttered, ”I will knock your teeth out – got that?”

Even if Reidar nodded so convincingly, he wouldn’t dare to say anything at all anymore, Algiris kept thinking ‘damn kids these days’ as he walked back to his seat.

I sincerely apologize to our splendid organizers for making a story arc out of someone shitting his pants. On the other hand, I had enough fun writing it not to feel any sort of regret.

[Qasden]

Bracket Here. Make your predictions, folks!

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Ethanian Side

Soltsteed VS. South Toronto

Buyan VS. Eastfield Lodge

@ St. Maries Stadium, Southern Hampton

@ King Edward IV Stadium, New Sarum

Osarius VS. Anthor

Natanians and Nosts VS. Darmen

@ Brannigan Stadium, New Sarum

@ Newton-Smith Arena, Letson

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Qasdonian Side

Juvencus VS. Flardania/Kirishima

Apox VS. Savojarna

@ Stade de Solis, Fyre

@ New Qad Stadium, Qad City

Equestrian States VS. Filindostan

New Gazi VS. Mattijana

@ Royal T.V. Stadium, T.V. City

@ Merellin Park, Taxson

[Flardania]

Opening Theme

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Bonjour et Ohayōgozaimasu Kirishima. Welcome ladies and gentleman back to the Cup of Harmony 71 edition of the Kitsune Report, brought to you by the Nagatomo Sports Network (NSN), sponsored by Air Pacifica, and Pocari Surge. Here at the Kitsune Report, it's all about Kirishinan sports. With the group stages having been completed, the sun rises and casts it's warm radiance on the remaining survivors teams. Among those teams a battered Kitsunes team can be seen taking a breather with Seong Mi-Soo still with a job for now. How did the Kitsunes survive? Can they go the distance? Can Seong keep her job? I'm your host, the fan you can count on the most, to bring you Kitsune news, Keitaaaaaaa Woo! Without any further delay let's get grooving to some Cup of Harmony football!

Pridnestrovia 0–4 Kirishima Review:

The Kitsunes managed to pull off an emotional rollercoaster run in Group F and lived to tell the tale. After starting the Cup of Harmony with a bye, followed by a draw with Equestrian States, the Kitsunes won a narrow match with Banija to lead the Group, a scenario where they simply needed a win against a weaker but very much in form opposition. They ended up dropping points in a complete loss to Somecoldwetislands in what can be described simply as controversial. Seong Mi-Soo got the message and so did I, play well enough that attempts to rob you of victory can't occur. In a match where the Kitsunes had to put there all into the match, it is safe to say mission accomplish on that goal.

Kirishima while tied with Pridnestrovia in both points and Goal Difference, it was the Kitsunes win with Banija on Matchday 3 that gave Kirishima the advantage table wise via Goals For. This would not mean much as both teams would advance should they have won and it was a fight of survival of the fittest. Pridnestrovia was coming off of a bye which is slightly better momentum wise than the Kitsunes following the mind numbing loss on paper. In actuality it seems that defeat woke the team up and when I saw woke up I don't mean the status quo. I saw flashback to the short lived Ruthless Aggression era of Kitsune football that brought the Kitsunes to the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time just last cycle and has been M.I.A since.

Some fans were still getting in there seats when the first goal of the match came in the 5'. As the Kitsunes moved the ball around in the midfield, Ako Izumi delivered the ball to Josuke Ichikawa who dished it back out to Izumi who fired a dagger of a pass to Renée Guidice who slotted the ball past Abbing for the quick lead. Guidice would break a painful scoring drought with that goal and she celebrated by running over towards a section with Kirishinan supporters a performing what has practically became her trademark celebration. Hojo would make a save in 12' preventing the potential equalizer and was rewarded for her efforts with two shot attempts by the Kitsunes in the 25' and 26' and ultimately with a goal in the 32'. Joseph Yabuta broke free from the defense during a counter attack meeting with a pass delivered by Izumi. Yabuta would beat Abbing in one on one play and put the Kitsunes up 2-0. The opposition would try to get back into the game during the 38' minute but Hojo would once again make the save. With the 2-0 deficit,the normally park the bus playing Pridnestrovia were under pressure to play more offensively when Guidice struck again in the 45' just before the half as the result of a corner kick. The Kitsunes entered the half with a confidence boosting lead of 3-0.

In the second half the Kitsunes were much more defensive focused. The game plan seemingly revolving around keeping possession and denying an opposition comeback. The Kitsunes shot attempts were limited to clear counter attack opportunities and Kitsunes forced their opponents to play to their pace. In the 77' minute any remaining doubt as to the state of the match was put to bed when Aoi Fujioka would score a goal off the bench after coming in for Yabuta in the 73'. Aoi would score his first goal of the cycle with the potential for more as the Kitsunes avoid defeat and Seong Mi-Soo keeps her job for another day. Final score Pridnestrovia 0, Kirishima 4.

Following the match, a stoic yet pleased Seong Mi-Soo, had this to say after the game. "Following the travesty that occurred in the previous match, I stated that this team would put its all in this match and we were successful. Ya know some think I was concerned about my job when I made the announcement but while it was on my mind it was pushed out of my mind and replaced with something more important. The future of the sport our country loves so much. We have not played the way we would like for the longest time and it took a lot to reach tolerable levels. We should've push into the world cup but we failed. We need to make the most of our Cup of Harmony appearance because even if the team does not deserve it, the country and fans do. I think its safe to say we are back and we will win with effort and only fail should a team outplay us and not courtesy of us *cough* *cough* coughing the game up. Juvencus will be a quality matchup and they have an impressive run of form. We will be preparing extensively for our next match but we will also be tweaking some flaws in our game to make sure we once again bring our best to the field."

Pridnestrovia 0-4 Kirishima 
                      R.Guidice(5' 45')    
                      J.Yabuta(32')
                      A.Fujioka(77')

Juvencus v Kirishima Match Preview

With Kirishima's win over Pridnestrovia, they have managed to escape Group F and reach the knockout stages. Awaiting the Kitsunes are the winners of Group E, Juvencus. Juvencus has been very offensive minded as of late with their tactics committing to the offensive slightly more than Kirishima. In this battle defense and goalkeeping will be critical for the two teams and the game may come down to a lucky goal, save, or unlucky off-target shot. It will be an exciting game to watch but Kirishima does have more pressure on there shoulders by being the favorites in terms of world standing and having a manager on the hot seat. Considering that the Kitsunes goal this cycle was to reach the World Cup Quarterfinals for the first time, the only thing that might save Seong's job is if Kirishima reaches the Cup of Harmony Semifinals for the first time, thus adding additional pressure to the team as no one wants someone job to be on their hands. With that said the Kitsunes have to take things one game at a time and in terms of an in form Juvencus, one half at a time. The keys for the next game will be momentum carry over, defense and possession. Until next time, Lets Go Kitsunes!

Post by: Keita Woo

[Mattijana]

The Survivor: Who is Ed Crajasović?

MFO SPORT

Mattijana's Matchday 5 was non-existent on the pitch and eventually fairly quiet off it as they jubilantly watched Apox thrash Vangaziland 4-0 to secure their progress into the Cup Of Harmony round of 16.
All Dusan Vukoja's team had to do was hold on to their second spot to get through and their survival in the top two of group G was representative of the career of their centre-back Edvard Crajasović.

The 29 year old grew up far from his current home among the beaches and astroturf of Revinka in the northern town of Klojstergrad, around 70 miles from the port city of Snezn. The cold winters mean the strains of daily lifestyle often take priority over football, but Crajasović's grit and solidarity were present even in the summer months when non-winter sports became more playable.

A few seasons playing youth team and school football in the North-East, Crajasović got his chance to play football all year-round with a move to the Pulnik Academy, situated in the sunny rolling hills of the south. Another couple of years were spent developing skills, style and physique before it was time to move on to division 2 team Izola on the south coast.
Breaking into the first team at Izola was the major progression for the then-19 year old. The opportunity to play regular senior football in a competitive league was an important step up and the physical demands of the league were an excellent fit for Crajasović.

A big move to PrvaLiga side FK Revinka followed after a few settled seasons on the South Coast. A year on the bench came in his first year at the club, a frustrating but useful season in which Crayasović's hunger for regular football was only strengthened. But with a move to Petrovijanka for regular centre back Martin Kamanović and fellow replacement Juliana Schwierkoz a long-term absentee with a cruciate injury, Crayasović would finally get his go at the top.

Like his start in life, the start of regular PrvaLiga football was also a tough one. With Revinka pushing for a top 5 spot, the pressure was on, particularly when a couple of mistakes from the big defender led to the side dropping points.
Despite calls from many for him to be dropped, Crayasović held on to his place and form began to pick up at last as he developed more experience in the limelight. Revinka eventually finished 4th in the table that year.
More character building for the young Crayasović followed. After an impressive start to the season, he suffered a serious ankle injury in a match against Savafluss after landing heavily. The injury would require surgery and despite a quick initial recovery, Crayasović was not able to recover his match fitness before the end of the season.

The struggle was yet again succeded by triumph. A return to the Revinka first team followed and the 25 year old showed both increased skill and maturity on his way to a first Mattijana call-up from former-boss Matej Ljubanik and a rise to the Revinka captaincy.

With expectations rising for the national team and the football becoming increasingly more stodgy, the now first-teamer would need to show his survival skills yet again as new boss Dusan Vukoja prepared for a shake up of the national side. Matej Handanovic, Sezer Julianov and Sophia Velezia were all turfed out. Crayasović kept his place and helped shepherd the side to their best ever world cup cycle result.

But what kind of player is Crayasović and where does he fit in to the national team set-up? It was a question asked by many when he was called up and it was one he answered with typical solidarity.
Less flamboyant than captain Katija Burnisovic. Less quick than pretty much the whole of the team. Described once as like a drunken antelope on ice when it comes to the technical side of the game. The question is a legitimate one, yet the northerner has a remarkable habit of hanging on in there.
Crayasović offers something that all good defences need and that is strength, good heading ability and the determination to win every ball that comes its way. With the pace, precision and leadership of Burnisovic, a good partnership has been formed and his resilience is almost certainly the base of their good performances.

Ed Crayasović has come a long way since his upbringing in frozen Klojstergrad and his breakthrough season with Revinka. His aptitude for survival will almost certainly be needed again, particularly as the autumn of his career approaches, but with promise for his and his team's future. All those associated with Mattijana will hope those skills will bring more success for their team.

Mattijana To Face New Gazi in Round of 16

The draw for the Cup of Harmony Round of 16 was earlier announced with Mattijana set to take on New Gazi in the city of Taxson, Qasden.
Their opponents are familiar, having been involved in Mattijana's qualifying group for World Cup 78 and New Gazi are unbeaten in two games against their coming rivals, racking up a 4-4 draw and a 2-1 win.
The African nation are also yet to lose this tournament, winning 2 and drawing 1 of their 3 group games and Dusan Vukoja recognised the tough task ahead:

"We know they are a good team from World Cup Qualifying. They like to get forward a lot and play with pace, so we will need to be ready for that defensively. Amare Contee has always been a goal threat throughout his career and he's played well so far this tournament too from open play and the dead ball, so he's a danger that we will have to be prepared for also."

On Media Speculation and Criticism of the New Gazi and Vannish Investment Habits:

"I think it only really serves as a distraction for both sides. For them it is an unpleasent situation to be snubbed by their own media, but on the other hand it is our job to be fully focused on beating them on the pitch tomorrow and not in engaging and escalating this kind of attention. This is a football tournament and we're fully focused on playing the game in the way it was supposed to be played and loved. I'm sure many around the multiverse will be dissapointed that the money has gone to a less-established and respected region when it is needed by many dedicated footballing leagues and nations, but business will always be business and in my view too much money can be a very detrimental thing for the state of the game.

[New Gazi]

Prince Fritz Wrapped Up In Civil War


In preparation for the Indian Champions League Grand Final, soldiers from Jhalpharezi find themselves in the process of clearing a street corner. The operation was in coordination with government forces to take the building from Zarist control. Condos in the residential building were being used to watch over a part of the road.

A network of foot-on-ground agents finally started turning up a list of names, some of which were tied to this tower. The raids were met right at the door with fire, which resulted in hand grenades tossed in response.

Just a few dozen miles away, Prince Fritjof Vang was shopping for new shoes to match his FC Bakati North jersey. The Royal Security Bureau would secure the block he was on at all times.

"It really wasn't that bad", the Prince said, a veteran of the war in Al-Khalifiya. "We heard the gunfire at one point, but it was far away."

Other Royals, like the King of New Doltania left the war ravaged nation. Fritz is still inviting people from around the globe to attend. Needless to say, with talk of war, the guest list is shrinking. Jessica Franssen is backing out of the event, but Jenna Vandersen is still going. Hectare Yulssen is also still going in a show of support.

The IBC point guard says spending time with two Royals could be an important political opportunity and one he shouldn't pass up. "There are things I could say from my own thoughts, but also things I know the community wants them to hear", said Yulssen on a radio talk show speaking on the Grand Final featuring Bakati North.

Surely, talk of war couldn't bode well for future foreign investment. Not all nations are in as volatile of a situation as Azadeshia. FC Bakati North hails from a peaceful country and a town with a mountain resort community.

Prince Fritz and his entourage will be under watch of the RSB and Jhalpharezi's MCF which will help secure the stadium from above. The tournament has drawn international attention to the Civil War in Azadeshia.

[Equestrian States]

Dominant Victory Sends Ponies Through to Second Round
by Steve McNotapony

Somecoldwetislands 0-3 Equestrian States
at Stade de Solis in Fyre, Qasden
Attendance: 80,240
Scoring:
Thunderlane '18 (Apple Cobbler)
Pristina Shine '22 (Rainbow Blitz)
Rainbow Blitz '53 (R. Tyler)

FYRE, Qasden - After drawing with bottom-seeded Pridnestrovia to open their Cup of Harmony campaign, few would have predicted the Equestrian States would go on to finish atop Group F, yet that is precisely where the Ponies stood after dominating the 105th-ranked Soggy Islanders in their final group stage match. The Ponies struck early and cruised to a comfortable win to book their trip to the tournament's second round, thus fulfilling most supporters' minimum expectations for the team.

Needing all three points to ensure their spot in the knockout stage of the tournament, the Equestrians were quick to put pressure on the Soggy Islanders, who seemed content to try and hold out for a draw, which would be enough for them to advance. However, just a few minutes after the quarter-hour mark, the Ponies broke the deadlock, as Thunderlane launched a cracker of a shot into the top left corner of the net to open the scoring, forcing Somecoldwetislands to abandon their defense-only strategy and go on the attack to try and find an equalizer. This would open them up in the back however, and the Ponies' vice-captain Rainbow Blitz led a counterattack just four minutes later that ended with Pristina Shine heading home to double the Equestrians' lead.

The Ponies continued to control the match into the second half, holding the Soggy Islanders to just one shot on target in the first 45 minutes of play, which was easily saved by Gentle Breeze. Meanwhile, the Equestrians were hammering away at goalkeeper Obese William, who was clearly tiring as the Ponies sought a third goal to seal their victory. In the 53rd minute, they found that clincher as Rainbow Blitz redirected a Rosie Tyler free kick past William to give the Equestrian States a commanding 3-0 lead that would prove to be insurmountable as Pearly White made a couple changes to solidify the Ponies' defense and preserve the clean sheet.

One of those defensive changes was bringing on veteran midfielder Apple Jack for what could well be his final appearance for the Ponies as the long-time defensive midfielder has announced his intention to retire from international hoofball at the conclusion of the Cup of Harmony. Equestrian supporters applauded his entry into the match and then roared when he was subbed off in the final minutes of play, the result all but certain at that point. Though Apple Jack and manager Pearly White refused to confirm that it was the end of the midfielder's long tenure with the national team, citing that his skills could yet come in handy in the knockout rounds, it's likely that other, younger options will be preferred as the Ponies look to go as far as possible in the tournament.

With the Equestrian contingent of fans still chanting Apple Jack's name, the whistle blew to bring an end to the match and the group stage, the Ponies comfortably victorious in yet another crucial match to seal their spot atop the table and claim their spot in the second round.

  Group F                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts        MD5 Results:
1  Equestrian States        4   2  2  0    6   1  +5    8   Q     Somecoldwetislands 0–3 Equestrian States 
2  Flardania                4   2  1  1    9   6  +3    7   Q    @ Stade de Solis in Fyre, QAS
3  Somecoldwetislands       4   2  0  2    6   5  +1    6   E     Pridnestrovia 0–4 Flardania 
4  Pridnestrovia            4   1  1  2    3   8  -5    4   E    @ Moriardi Square in Destiny, QAS
5  Banija                   4   1  0  3    4   8  −4    3   E    Bye:  Banija

In the other Group F fixture, Flardania pummeled bottom seeds Pridnestrovia 4-0 to punch their own ticket to the knockout rounds and sparing themselves the humiliation of a group stage exit as the pre-tournament favorites. They will face surprise Group E winners Juvencus in the second round as their quest to claim the Cup of Harmony title continues. Meanwhile, the Ponies advance to face the runners-up of Group F: Filindostan, who have been one of this cycle's breakout teams, following up their Baptism of Fire victory with a surprisingly strong qualifying campaign, narrowly missing out on the World Cup finals, then squeaking out a spot in the second round ahead of Northwest Kalactin and top-seeded Mercedini. The Equestrians did beat the Filindostanis 4-1 in a pre-qualifying friendly, but it's clear that the Pula Garuda have improved significantly since and the Ponies will have their work cut out for them as they seek to prevent Filindostan from avenging one of their heaviest defeats.

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Match Report :: Match Day 5

 SOMECOLDWETISLANDS 0–3 EQUESTRIAN STATES 
Stade de Solis (cap. 80,240) in Fyre, Qasden

Scoring:
 Thunderlane '18 (Apple Cobbler)
 Pristina Shine '22 (Rainbow Blitz)
 Rainbow Blitz '53 (R. Tyler)

Starting XI:
GK - Gentle Breeze
CB - Brix Hamilton
CB - Andrea Molovi
CB - Flitter
LM - Krystal
CM - Cloudchaser (C)
CM - Rosie Tyler
RM - Apple Cobbler
AM - Rainbow Blitz
ST - Pristina Shine
ST - Thunderlane

Substitutions:
 Apple Jack in for Rainbow Blitz '55
 Sunlight in for Pristina Shine '71
 Luminesce in for Apple Jack '90+2

[Darmen]

Tuesday, September 18, 2040
vs. Buyan L 2-3
STARTING LINEUP:

------Lucanus-------Norton------
-Ó Cuilinn-Benbow-Butler-Gordon-
----------Goldschmidt-----------
---Messer----Abbey----Porsche---
-------------Campo--------------

GOALS & SUBSTITUTIONS:

• 17' GOAL: Benbow
  55' SUB: Abbey-OFF Haenraets-ON
  63' GOAL: Lucanus
  71' SUB: Norton-OFF Blackwood-ON
  74' SUB: Butler-OFF Byrnes-ON

Friday, September 21, 2040
vs. Yuezhou W 1-0
STARTING LINEUP:

------Lucanus-------Norton------
-Ó Cuilinn-Benbow-Butler-Gordon-
----------Goldschmidt-----------
---Messer----Abbey----Porsche---
-------------Campo--------------

GOALS & SUBSTITUTIONS:

• 61' SUB: Lucanus-OFF Firmin-ON
  65' GOAL: Norton
  73' SUB: Goldschmidt-OFF Ramírez-ON
  85' SUB: Gordon-OFF Stafford-ON

Monday, September 24, 2040
vs. Lisander D 2-2
STARTING LINEUP:

------Lucanus-------Norton------
-Ó Cuilinn-Benbow-Butler-Gordon-
----------Goldschmidt-----------
---Messer----Abbey----Porsche---
-------------Campo--------------

GOALS & SUBSTITUTIONS:

• 25' GOAL: Lucanus
  58' SUB: Porsche-OFF Maddox-ON
  63' GOAL: Gordon
  67' SUB: Lucanus-OFF Firmin-ON
  78' SUB: Benbow-OFF Winton-ON

Thursday, September 27, 2040
vs. Dunnes W 7-3
STARTING LINEUP:

------Lucanus-------Norton------
-Ó Cuilinn-Benbow-Butler-Gordon-
----------Goldschmidt-----------
---Messer----Abbey----Porsche---
-------------Campo--------------

GOALS & SUBSTITUTIONS:

• 7' GOAL: Lucanus
  14' GOAL: Norton
  27' GOAL: Goldschmidt
  43' GOAL: Norton (2)
  HT SUB: Ó Cuilinn-OFF Mac Pharlain-ON
  51' GOAL: Lucanus (2)
  63' GOAL: Lucanus (3)
  70' SUB: Norton-OFF Blackwood-ON
  70' SUB: Messer-OFF Virgo-ON
  88' GOAL: Blackwood

---

Single Survivor Rescued from Kids Club Anarchy

Police rescue the supervisor from the Kids Club

SCOTT CITY - After an eleven hour standoff, police were finally able to rescue the supervisor of Tiny Tots Kids Club, after the kids attending the club's after-school program forcefully took over the building. Armed with knives and pistols, a group of sixteen five and six year-old kindergartners demanded that they be allowed to stay up past their bed time. In exchange, they would allow the supervisor present at the club, Ms. Wen Huang, to leave unharmed.

Police were first notified after the parents, who were attempting to take the students home at around 8pm, refused to give in to the students demands. Arriving within minutes, police were at a loss as to how to respond. After trying and failing to make contact with the leadership of the band of students, the police used an unarmed robot with a camera to plan a rescue attempt of the supervisor being held hostage. Designed to be bomb and bullet proof, and able to handle a variety of situations, the robot was promptly dismantled at the hands of the school children.

After a few hours though, cracks begin to appear in the group of little resistance fighters. One by one, they began to get hungry or fall asleep. Police decided the best course of action was to wait the situation out, as the group had whittled down to only four younglings by 5am. After a couple of more hours, all sixteen of the kids were either passed out asleep or crying for their mothers to make them grilled cheese sandwiches.

Ms. Huang was finally rescued at 7:07am, visibly shaken from the experience but otherwise fine. Frode Gabriels, the newly installed District Attorney, will have a tough decision to make when the children appear in court for the first time next Tuesday.

[Natanians and Nosts]

Natanians and Nosts advances to play-off at the Cup of Harmony

After defeating Taeshan,Natanians and Nosts advances to the Cup of Harmony play-off for the first time in history,at its third Cup of Harmony.The team will face Darmen from Rushmore;who has 2 wins,one draw and a defeat to Buyan.
The match will occur at Newton-Smith Arena,in Letson,Ethane.
The nation is quite hopeful,many thinking the team will go to te final.But they have to beat Darmen first,a nation who has tradition in the international footballing scenario.To Natanians and Nosts side,the team didn't lose to any goose this Cup of Harmony,nor to any team that begins with the letter D.Natanians and Nosts will begin the game with the standard 4-3-3 formation as was confirmed by the coach at a press conference.

[Soltsteed]

|national football | club football | basketball | rugby | volleyball | sevenball|

cherrygrove city issue a super dare to soltsteeders and omericans alike with barzetti signing
the lone player to score against emmet ferdinand in the cup of harmony 71 group stage will head to the mästerheid, posing questions for two nations’ football authorities

NEW SARUM, Ethane — To be fair to Les Incorrigibles, they were shit at this Cup of Harmony, continuing a pattern of mediocrity that has stained the nation’s return to the international football fold.

No longer is Omerica a rising star in the football universe, but a mere shadow of its former self. Glimpses of the old Omerica have shone through, especially during their convincing 3-1 win over Yesopalitha, but the past two years have been one disappointment after another. But one good thing has come out of Omerica’s doomed Cup of Harmony campaign: star Omerica striker Morgan Barzetti has been signed by Wallish club Cherrygrove City, especially important as the Métropolitaine broke Emmet Ferdinand’s 324 minute clean streak at this Cup of Harmony and kept the Stallions from notching a third win in the group stage.

It is doubtless that Barzetti could have been a Stallion if she had been born in the right Commonwealth, in, say, Port Michael, rather than Port Alexandre. A blossoming strike partnership with Red Bolton, who moved up to his favoured playmaking position for the Cup of Harmony, has the potential to fulfil Omerican dreams of silverware in the future and has highlighted the extent of Barzetti’s versatility.

“I’m not focusing on what could have been,” the Omerican captain told press after the 1-1 draw confirmed Soltsteed’s place in the last 16 and Omerica’s long trek home. “I’ve been dealt a hand by the fates and I have to play it. I’m proud to be wearing the blue shirt of the Incorrigibles and I plan to do so for as I am able.”

“Cherrygrove City believes that it is time for the Mästerheid to make up its mind on the topic of foreign players in the Soltsteedish league system,” the former Soltsteedish champions stated in a press release announcing the deal. “Morgan Barzetti has proven herself to be a capable player as captain of the Omerican national team and we believe that she will be a solid addition to the Pink Crew.”

The deal poses questions for both nations involved in the match.

First: does Omerica kick Barzetti off the national team. The infamously defunct Omerican Football Federation’s diktat that foreign-based players could not don the Omerica kit does not currently stand with the organisation’s judicial-ordered dissolution and the founding of the Commonwealth Soccer Federation in its place, but the CSF must now confront the question of whether it regresses towards the shameful parts of nation’s football history or if it decides to flip its predecessor the bird and move on from the past.

Omerica’s newly-minted manager Christine Salmond, the first woman to take the helm of Les Incorrigibles, certainly thinks it is time for Omerica to move on from the old days: “I am very happy for Morgan and I think it is a clear signal that it is time to bring professional football back to Omerica,” the manager stated to STN in a pre-match interview. “Cherrygrove City are perhaps the best club in Soltsteed at the moment and one of the rising stars of Cyanea in international play. I think Morgan and Cherrygrove will be a great match and I hope that the CSF will allow Morgan to continue to play for Les Incorrigibles.”

Second: how does the Mästerheid deal with the question of foreign players in the league. Thus far, there has been no explicit rule banning clubs from signing non-Soltsteedish players, but the clubs have followed an informal gentlemen’s agreement that has been busted by Cherrygrove City’s actions. Without any clear rules, the Mästerheid must immediately confront one of the most controversial points of debate in Soltsteedish sport. Rules on foreign players must be drawn up soon or the league could risk the possibility of Soltsteeders being almost completely crowded out of professional football.

And finally, when does Omerica reestablish a league system? It may not seem like the most obvious question, but Barzetti’s words make it clear that her desperation to play in a professional league was the catalyst for her decision, which, when combined with Cherrygrove’s desire to force progress on squad rule discussions, made the entire deal possible. “I don’t begrudge my club for a moment,” Barzetti said in an interview with STN, “but the glacial progress in getting Omerica back on its feet in the international scene is embarrassing. Someone has to force the question and who better to do it then the nation’s captain?”

The last question is the one with the least clarity as to what the potential answer may be. It is unlikely that the CSF, which has been doing almost everything in its power to spite the memory of the disgraced OFF, is going to force Barzetti to retire from international duty. It is equally unlikely that the Mästerheid will formalise the now-broken gentlemen’s agreement with Morgan Barzetti in the league, but imposing limits on the number of foreign nationals clubs may register is the likeliest outcome for the Mästerheid, in addition to a rumoured floor on the number of youth players clubs must name on their starting squads. But it is completely unclear when a new Omerican league will emerge from the still-smouldering ashes of the of the Omerican Premier League.

No matter what comes of the Cherrygrove City deal, these questions must now be answered sooner rather than later. That is nothing short of a good thing. •

---

In other news:
Football: The Big Questions: Can Soltsteed win the Cup of Harmony? Or are the Stallions doomed?
Co. Southall: Constabulary confirm that there are no survivors from capsized fishing boat
Co. Rhodes: Cannabis shop torched in anti-drug protest; constabulary confirm six arrests
Offbeat: Emmet Ferdinand is not crying himself to sleep in an alleyway tonight, people…

[Ethane]

Round of 16
RP Prompt: Someone returns home, only to find their home has been destroyed. (This is only to give you ideas to RP and following or not following the prompt will not affect your RP Bonus in any way.)

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RESULTS

Soltsteed 3–0 South Toronto
@ St. Maries Stadium, Southern Hampton

Osarius 3–4 Anthor
@ Brannigan Stadium, New Sarum

Buyan 2–2 Eastfield Lodge (3–2 AET)
@ King Edward IV Stadium, New Sarum

Natanians and Nosts 3–4 Darmen
@ Newton-Smith Arena, Letson

Quarter-Finals

Soltsteed vs Buyan
@ Brannigan Stadium, New Sarum

Anthor vs Darmen
@ St. Maries Stadium, Southern Hampton