World Cup 80 • EqueStar • Roleplay Thread

by **Main Nation Ministry** » Tue Apr 24, 2018 8:30 pm

Training

Emmanuel Jones stood on the viewing balcony, overlooking the soccer team train against a team of handpicked prisoners, as the match day was tomorrow. Emmanuel was making sure nothing of trouble was visible, until a soldier alerted Jones to head to the meeting for an important meeting over recent issues. Entering the room with several other military officials, Jones took a seat where the monitor switched on, showing the Leader. His chair turned away from the camera, where only a visible arm holding a cocktail with a paper umbrella was shown. "Gentlemen. I see that you all have come. You know what is of discussion."

"Ahem.. Leader, we are still treating the virus. We managed to stabilize it, so that it only affects the facial region of the infected. We still need more confirmation on the origins. A bit of an issue with a researcher, but he's now making a new razor.", a scientist assisted with a government official said. "And the political candidates that are still in the puppet government?" "We're still having accident delay their progress. We might need to resort to lethal ones to get the government in a shutdown.", another official said.

"And the missing bomber?"
"We send a drone to search for it on the island, but we lost transmission already. Our best option is that some sort of EMP-like force is around that area."
"Well, how about- Hang on." The Leader got tired of the elusive villain position and spun his chair to face the camera. He tossed his cocktail aside as if it was a prop. "We could be dealing with a memetic event, such as the Callister moon! Get a containment investigation ongoing! That's an order!" The Leader shut off the camera, as the monitor turned off by itself.

The Tide

A lone flower in the color of red stood alone in an area covered by dunes that looked like it would go on for miles. An unconscious body of a soldier in causal wear lied on the sand, as his hand twitched slightly. Soon, his eyes opened as he found the sun to be staring him down. He touched the sand and immediately noticed something of unusual property.

The sand was wet.

by **Drawkland** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 12:11 am

It was an overcast day in Schottia. So basically, it was like any other day. Except for the Kick Corps, where it was quite possibly the most important match in our short history. Independents Cup IV, the championship, the first shot at any sort of greatness on this stage. The other NT Corps had taken their shots and made it. The Grid Corps with World Bowl XXX, the Net Corps only months prior with IBC 25. Even Elmanden District College won the NSCAA. The Base Corps ... well, we won't talk about them. But the fact remains. As far as title games, when Drawkland makes it, we win it. Unless you ask Sadeg State, but that game was totally rigged. I'll take that to my grave.

The simple fact is that Drawkland was now in a title game. And now, the Kick Corps had to do what everyone expected. We had to win. And considering the squad we have, it's not that hard of an assumption to make. The fact that the Free Republics had beaten us nearly a decade ago was now totally irrelevant. We were all better. We all knew what to do.

And, most of all, we had Ellzidan on our side. Not many besides Valanora have an old-as-hell badass soccer-playing elf on their team. It wasn't always foolproof, because she's sometimes moody about it, but when things came to the clutch, Ellzidan could always provide a hard carry. And for that we're always thankful.

But something was just ... off. I've played right midfield alongside Ellzidan for my entire professional career. And this game, she was clearly just off. I don't know what it was, but I've never seen her like it. I was on the bench for most of the game, until late when Michael put me in. The game was already over by then. I guess he was hoping for some last-ditch team chemistry magic that would somehow activate for Ellzidan. Get her into the game. Get something, anything, into the net. The early goal by Cam Cross was great, but conceding 2 before the half and another directly after was just not doing it for us. 3-1. The number on the scoreboard was simply mocking me. It mocked all of us.

Free Republics and Rule Theriault had us easily figured out. They played with us like we were just a few scraps of deboned meat on the edge of their dinner plate. Deciding rather they should eat us for completion's sake or just throw us in the trash with the bones. They knew we would count on Ellzidan if the situation was dire. They knew we'd lean on the strikers. And they simply shut us all down. Lots of people claimed that Ellzidan's performance, or rather lack thereof, cost us that match, but I think we all know that we all failed to show up that overcast evening in Handon.

You can't blame Ell for everything that happened. We all were responsible. We stopped playing real soccer. We simply became slaves of the "feed the ball to the stars and pray!" mentality. And nobody was fed more than Ellzidan. Hellish defensive stands around our goal, in our box, narrowly escaping conceding another goal and disaster, only to kick it out to Ellzidan or Katie Madison and for them to be instantly mobbed by the Republicans, and thrown back to our box to prevent another goal.

It was hell, and I don't say that lightly. We were totally and utterly powerless. And I don't think anybody felt that more than Ellzidan.

Ultimately, the game came to pass. We got our second place medals and pissed off to our locker room to collect our things and leave. It was over. And it was embarrassing. At least it wasn't a shutout, somebody muttered. And that's true, I guess. But does that really make it any better?

Months later, we had all kinda forgotten about it. The domestic season kinda helped us all. Especially Ellzidan. She instantly snapped into form after a few months of break, and we played well. I mean, our team has definitely been suffering lately, the Roots, but at least we dominate our division, which is always a plus. Everything seemed to turn back to normal. The Hardship in Handon seemed to fade away, now a distant memory, especially with the World Cup, something we've always been great at, on the horizon.

The Roots had a draw party, actually. Ellzidan invited us all to one of the few places in Elstrund with a high-quality TV, and we all gathered around to watch the draw for this World Cup qualifying. After all, the group is what can make or break a qualifying campaign. We've always been lucky in our draws, something which I definitely think contributed to our perfect qualification record.

The party was pretty fun, for the most part. Even Shayna Nephara, who had recently transferred to a club in Mriin, managed to make it. We watched the processions, laughed a lot. We even saw Iarocav in a few of the crowd shots they did, which launched Ellzidan into a few stories about the old times, which is always a treat. We watched the groups with increasing interest. When Free Republics was drawn into Group 8, we all booed and laughed. Just for the fun of it.

When Pot 2 came though, we all buckled down and became serious. We all had to be prepared to see what our destiny for the next 18 World Cup matchdays would be. Then we were called in Group 8. We'd have to deal with Free Republics twice. A few in the room, including me, said something jokingly and a little nervously along the lines of "aw, come on, really? What did we do to deserve this?"

Ellzidan was strangely silent.

Usually you can always count on her for some sort of sarcasm or biting satire or gruff distant comment which makes you feel a little bit better. But she was like a stone wall. I could almost feel her stiffen. The rest of us just kinda nervously laughed again, and waited for the draw to continue. Eventually, around the time Pot 2 announcements were ending, Ellzidan jumped back in to the fray of jokes and soccer banter, and it seemed to be alright. She fooled everyone else in the room, but she couldn't fool me.

I've spent the most time around Ellzidan. Everyone, when they end up on the Roots, has to be ready for some one-on-one time with the Elf. She isn't just a fellow player, she isn't just mentor on the field, she's a mentor for the mind. She and Elstrund are sure to draft and trade for players who aren't just assets to the team, but people who need help. That's what she's been her whole life. Someone who saves people and protects people. Ever since she quested with the dragon Magnatha, ever since she discovered Elstrund, that was her goal. Something inside her soul compelled her to protect those that she took under her wing. And now, with most threats to her territory gone, she doesn't need to protect with a bow. She protects with her heart.

I wouldn't be where I am without her help. I was drafted late in the seventh round of the DLK draft. I was a half-decent player at a less-than-stellar university, and I had no future. Many scouts said I had the fundamentals down and some sort of ingenuity but no star power that would really help a team. I myself figured I was destined to warm some benches, help warm up practice squad players who would become the next generation's stalwarts, then eventually be cut and find something else with my life. But I guess Ellzidan saw something different in me. I was drafted by the Roots and, as I expected, I mainly stuck around on the practice squad getting a few minutes of blowout games every few weeks.

One day Ellzidan approached me after a practice session and asked me what I wanted to be. I said something vague. Probably something like "I just want to make something out of myself." Ellzidan nodded at that, then looked at me and said, "Then why don't you do it?" I didn't have a good answer for that. "Because nobody thinks I can be good or even great. I'm lucky to even be close to the DLK now."

With that, Ellzidan stood up and looked down at me. She simply said, "You're the only one who controls you," then walked off to the locker room. It had never really occurred to me before, silly enough to think as it is. I had always been barely good enough, and it had defined who I was for so long. But that old elf was right. I was the one who controlled myself on the field. After that I busted myself and tried my hardest every day. I learned from her playstyle, and how to compliment her on the pitch. And through that, I became recognized. I was even invited to the national team, to play to represent my nation. An incredible honor.

After that initial awakening I spent as much time as I could with Ellzidan. I enjoyed her companionship, and I like to think that she enjoyed mine. Hell if I really know how she feels. But the more I spend with her the easier it is for me to tell how she really feels. Her moods can be imperceptible sometimes, but now I can tell when she's putting up a façade. That draw day, she had her façade up loud and clear. She couldn't fool me.

The final against Free Republics was bad, for sure. I think we all felt like shit after the loss. But we all moved on. We all take losses on the big stage and we just have to accept that. Ellzidan has taken more losses than we have played games in our entire lives. Hell, Ellzidan has probably lost games more times than I've seen a soccer ball. But something about this loss just seemed to break her.

I, and I think lots of people, have a sneaking suspicion that Ellzidan holds back. I've seen footage of back in the day when Ellzidan would go on dominating streaks. She would lay waste to pitches far and wide, against any competition. The best players to ever grace a Drawkian field would crumble before her. I still see flashes of that same play when she plays today. I see her go on a roll sometimes and just completely dismantle a defense or an offense and take control of the ball. Berserker mode, some sportscasters call it. Like something that comes with a bang and fades away just as mysteriously. They say that because they don't know her. I can see her go on a roll like that and suddenly slow down.

I think she does it for us. Like, sure she could probably just go into a World Cup campaign and totally smack 20 different teams into submission and win a cup flawlessly. But then it isn't our cup. It's hers. She doesn't want to win a cup and be given all the credit, because that's not fair. There's so much talent here on this team, it would be an insult to call them mere fleshy puppets occupying a pitch to temporarily distract the opposition and prevent the match from being a forfeit for lack of players. That's what would happen though. It wouldn't be "Drawkland's Team", it would be "Ellzidan's Team," and the rest of us would fade into history as "the gals who were also there and kicked the ball to that elf lady." Ellzidan doesn't want recognition for herself. In Drawkland, she already has a ton of that. I mean, she's a living piece of our nation's history. A mysterious figure that everyone wishes they could be.

This Independents Cup final was different. I'll firmly stand by what I said about Ellzidan holding back to prevent it from being a one-lass show, but like I said earlier too, she appears and comes in the clutch when we really need it. Against Free Republics, she simply couldn't do it. I could tell she was trying her best. I can't tell you why she was stumped though. I'd never seen anything like it. Not even the most skilled ultra-defensive teams in the multiverse can stop Ellzidan with 100% success. But the Free Republics, not even a significantly defensive or really powerful team by any means, figured out her weakness. I don't know how. Hell, they themselves not even know why or how. But it still happened.

I highly doubt Ellzidan has lost the ability to play soccer at the godly level that she's played before. I even saw her play like it this season for the Roots. And I doubt there's anything the Free Republics did that somehow magically stunted her. I honestly have no good explanation for what happened. And I think, deep inside, neither does Ellzidan.

And that's why I'm not surprised that she's gone.

"Bad news for Kick Corps fans across Drawkland, Sonnel, and the rest of the multiverse! In an interview earlier tonight, national team and Metropolon Lights manager Michael Starre held a press conference regarding the upcoming World Cup Qualifying campaign. Most of the interview he seemed to imply the team was working with business as usual. However, as he announced the intended Matchday 1 starting lineup, which has traditionally been full-strength the last 3 cycles, Drawkian historical icon and sporting legend Ellzidan was absent from said lineup, her Center-Mid position instead filled by Kaitlyn Axelson.

When questioned about this unorthodox decision, Starre revealed that he, nor any other players on the national team, had seen, talked to, or interacted with Ellzidan in any way for the past few months. She had not been present at any team practices or meetings. Some players who were interviewed cited that she hadn't been seen since a few days after the announcement of the qualifying group draw. Other sources known to interact with her on a consistent basis have also claimed they haven't seen her for a similarly long period of time. Elstrund, the enormous sentient tree with which Ellzidan has the closest relations to, could not be reached for comment.

In other news, several sources in the Talcent moon system claim that scientists in Oteshknir are on the verge of an antimatter energy breakthrough to rival Drawkland's advancements in the advanced scientific energy field ..."

by **The Sherpa Empire** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 1:27 am

----֎-֎-֎----‭

Protests are a common occurrence in the Sherpa Empire. Sometimes it's ethnic separatists wanting independence. Sometimes it's Muslims wanting to make Islam the national religion. Sometimes it's nativists wanting to close the borders. Sometimes it's Dalits demanding reparations for caste discrimination. Sometimes it's Brahmins demanding that the Sherpas do something to remove the Dalits from society. Sometimes it's men in suits protesting the continued use of traditional Sherpa attire in corporate settings, which they say creates a backward image and makes it harder to attract international investment.

‭On the plus side, the country is free enough for such protests to be allowed, and most of them are resolved without bloodshed. The downside is that there are so many social and political problems that make people want to protest in the first place.

‭On the eve of the first game of the World Cup, there were two protests held near the stadium -- one calling to make Kathmandu the national capital and one protesting against sexism in professional sports. The police tried their usual tactic of offering to give the protesters air-time on a government news channel if they would get off the streets and not disrupt the World Cup. It worked in the sense that it got the protesters off the street, but it rubbed Ilyas Song the wrong way. He thought it just gave people an incentive to protest, so they could get on TV. He wished the police would charge the protesters with some minor charge like "loitering" or "disturbing the peace" to get them off the street, and fine them a few rupees for wasting everyone's time. He also wished Jigme Sherpa wouldn't make sexist comments that attracted protests in the first place.

----֎-֎-֎----‭

works? · by **Abanhfleft** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 1:45 am

2024-25 Fleftic Premier League Preview, Part One
2024-25 Fleftic Premier League Preview, Part Two

Of course, now that we have previewed the men's league, it's time that we turned our attention to the women who play football in our beloved country. Twelve teams from all over the country will contest for the right to lift the Fleftic Ladies' Premier League title, but there can only be one champion. Let us see which team that could possibly be.

Arsenal de Releinthi Ladies

Prediction: First

Keephall Valkyries

Prediction: Seventh

Kimmirut Panhandle Women

Prediction: Twelfth

Ludogorets Markovsky Ladies

Prediction: Fifth

by **Audioslavia** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 2:25 am

Bulls Rush In
Audioslavia face stern test on return to World Cup

If new Audioslavia boss Dragan Kryznjak was hoping to ease his way into his new role, he was sorely disappointed on draw night as Audioslavia were placed alongside former World Champions Nephara in Group 3.

Not only that, but Audioslavia's opening two fixtures will be against Flardania, ranked 28th in the world, and a trip to 13th ranked Nephara.

The Audioslavia national football team haven't played a game in anger for six years, following the FFA's 'voluntary' withdrawal (see: forced to desperately save face following Jeremy Jaffacake's money-laundering antics while head of the WCC). The intervening time period has seen swathes of international retirements from the established national team - most of whom would be on the wrong side of thirty anyway. Only Roddy Fraser - a man more than familiar with Nepharite football - remains from the WC78 squad. Kryznjak's hope that Anderson Sandro, a Kytleran footballer who has played his entire career in Audioslavia and Nephara, most recently for champions Izotz Zubia, would take on Audioslavian citizenship for the World Cup fell flat after #Anderson was seen laughing and joking about the offer to friends and family. "Claret and green should never be seen" was one of the phrases used by Sandro. "Bunch of rice-eating chunder-****s" was another. Kryznjak recinded the offer in as dignified a manner as possible - commendable for the traditionally hot-headed former striker - but was overheard by reporters to be considering challenging Anderson Sandro to a charity MMA match, which was perhaps less becoming of an international manager.

The snub means that Kryznjak is desperately short of recognised talent in the central and forward positions but for Fraser. Such is the desperate state of the midfield - comprising only of six men throughout the entire squad, four of which at unfashionable football teams with the others not first choice for their club - that some online twitter trolls have dubbed the first team the 'kinder surprise'; A thin veneer of chocolate surrounding a shit three-piece toy that doesn't fit together correctly. How Kryznjak can get the best out of the expected starting trio of Dupont, Boiteux and Borjon remains to be seen.

The Bulls are strong in defence, it seems. A five-man rear guard comprises Revolutionaries starter EVdB, possibly with Holdenberg's tastily-named Aitor Carbonara and Holdenberg City's Dan Robertson at full-back, with the Zozi pairing of Smith and Ilatxi in the centre. Calixto in goal, also from the Euran league, is not quite in the same bracket as former stopper August Ozuna, but should be protected enough by the back five.

Up front, who partners Fraser is anyone's guess, though in-form Dsya Kuznetsov is favourite.

When asked for his thoughts on the team's tricky opening fixtures, Kryznjak was philosophical.

"We have to be realistic, it's a tough opening weekend and we're nowhere near the finished article. We will scrape for whatever points we can get and kick on through the easier games in qualifying. There are no easy games in qualifying, though"

One journalists asked the obvious question. "So when do you kick on?"

"We always kick on" replied Kryznjak, sure of himself despite himself.

The biggest question of all has to be whether or not Audioslavia can qualify for the finals in two years time. Ranked 45th in the world, the third seed in a group wherein only two teams progress, it will be a tough ask, but stranger things have happened. As anyone with wikipedia will tell you, Audioslavia once won the World Cup from a rank of 53.

That was an awfully, awfully long time ago.

by **Mriin** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 2:45 am

Mako was laid out sideways on one of the locker room benches, his chest and head hanging face-up as he panned his little digital camera over the Haven ceiling. Eventually he swung it around on Solara, stretching by her locker, who felt the attention on her back and looked over.

"...the hell are you doing?" she asked, an eyebrow raised.

He chuckled and played up looking through the viewfinder (still upside-down). "It's a documentary! People are always tweeting me about what it's like playing football for a living. They can see how Kostin will show up to Hosingr games drunk as a Brenecian, but we're something special here."

"But why've you got to point it at me? I've seen the highlights on Maal News Now, they have plenty of shots of me playing in the premiership."

"'cause you've got that star power!" He flourished extravagantly with his free hand. "On the Galacticos long-list, top thirty players in the whole fucking multiverse!"

"This again?" She rolled her eyes and turned back, grabbing her duffel bag and stuffing it in the locker. "That list was already put together by a bunch of hacks, and even if I trust the Schottic a bit more than the Boneys everyone know they rushed that list out at the last second. You can't believe everything you read."

"I don't gotta believe it," he said while sliding to his feet, "I see it every day out here. The work you put in, and the results you get for it, that put you in first place in the top league in the world for two damn seasons." He let out a faint 'pfha' sound, hands out to his sides, momentarily out of breath. "...alright, what it is is that I look up to you. I... I'm learning how to, like, actually play the game because I see what you do and I want to do that, even if Lazaar doesn't give a shit what we put on the field. And I'm looking for a move out of the Dæmons, too, because you were right and it's a toxic shithole."

Solara had slowly closed the locker and turned back. Is Mako really baring his heart, here? I... did not expect that. I guess I had him pegged wrong as the cocky young gun.

The eyes of the general locker room had been drawn to the two, and it seemed like Mako realized that as he snapped back into reality. "Ah, anyway, that's a whole lot of noise for... I think it's something a lot of people would like to see. A success story."

She let a grin crack through and nodded. "I really don't know how relatable my life is, but hey, if you think it'll help I'm down."

by **Savojarna** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 5:00 am

SavojarSports.sj - inside reports from all Savojarna
More Than Ready: Savojarna enters WCQ unbeaten

The women's team is preparing for a home game against the low ranked Sevmenika, at rank 206 the second-lowest team in the group. As this match is played at home, in Sjoedrhavn in front of a fanatic crowd (the game sold out in less than four hours and if any of the 78'000 seats in thee Nationalstadion Carl Gustaf Bjurman are going to be empty, it will be in the Sevmenikan sector) and with a team eager to prove itself, there should be little doubt about who is the favourite. Naturally, our gaze is already shifted forward to the following matches, which will be much more of a challenge. Just three days later, as the first double-round finishes, we will be facing Vilita away in what is predicted to be the toughest game of the entire campaign as the world's number 11 will be hell-bent not to drop any points against lower ranked nations. Savojarna tried to simulate the tough games against Vilita and Abanhfleft by hosting the 18th-placed Ethane in the Bjurman, and staged the crucial away games against West Angola and Petroslovania with a journey to Filindostan.

Both these matches turned out very well for the Savojars. Against Ethane, they demonstrated a great willpower as they overturned a 1-3 at halftime to come back and even take the lead at 4-3, but ultimately gave up another goal to draw Ethane in Sjoedrhavn. The star of this match was the routined Irina Jarkasjärvi, who was participating in three goals and scored one of them herself. Sigurdsdottir scored the important first goal by a header following a crossing by Jarkasjärvi. The third goal also came from a Jarkasjärvi pass into the offensive midfield, where Lenka Otalainen shot the ball directly and unstoppable to the bottom left corner. The final goal for Savojarna was scored by Kjaer following a corner kick, showing that the women are just as dangerous off set pieces as the men despite their less impressive physique, compared to the Savojar Men's Team known for their hardcore physical play.

In the second match at home, we hosted Filindostan at home, a team that had won the Baptism of Fire in their edition and dealt some considerable harm to Savojarna in the following WCQ. As such, the world's number 73 at home should be a powerful marker for the teams behind us, competing for a playoff spot against Savojarna. The test was clearly passed with a very strong defensive showing, allowing only few chances and just one goal for Filindostan after a free kick. Offensively, Linne Asbeck brought on the young Lenka Otalainen instead of Vailova, who could not fully convince the coach against Ethane. Otalainen brought some more offensive drive to the game and acted as a playmaker who could cleverly distribute the balls to the wingers, and following a good pass by Haakonson, Sigurdsdottir could score the leading goal yet again. Following the equaliser by the Filindostanis, Savojarna remained pressing and could score the winning goal with a long-distance shot by Raukanen. Throughout the whole game, the ladies were the better team and won deservedly, making the experts of the nation highly optimistic for the qualifying campaign.

Of course, a victory in Vilita would probably be too high expectations. But the SSA's goal of playoff qualification should be highly reachable with this team and this preparatory campaign. Judging by Savojarna's past, the most important games are probably not necessarily the games against Vilita and Abanhfleft, but especially not to lose the games against the teams around place 100. If we give up points against teams like Darkmania or Petroslovania, as we often did in the past, it may become another uphill battle early on. Therefore, it is crucial that we finally take the budgeted points against teams past the Top 100 and snatch some results from the other top teams in our home matches.

Tomorrow, all advantages lay with the Savojars. The weather in Sjoedrhavn is expected to be cold but dry, with a temperature of -2°C. The pitch will of course be unfrozen by the heating, but the challenge for the teams is to keep their body warm and avoid injury especially for substitute players. Together with the expected winds from the sea and the loud, fiery atmosphere at the Bjurman, this often leads to difficult conditions for visiting teams and earned the stadium the nickname "The Frozen Hell". It is in these surroundings thaz Savojarna usually thrives and managed to draw a 4-4 out of the international top team of Ethane, and I think we can wholeheartedly welcome Sevmenika to the Frozen Hell. Watch the game live on STV2 tomorrow night at 20:00!

by **New Lusitania and the Algarves** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 5:24 am

STL - SERVIÇOS DE TRANSMISSÃO LUSITANA ENGLISH - stl.ls
Desporto
80º Mundial de Futebol - Estados Equestres/Starbladia / 80th World Cup - "EqueStar"

New Lusitania enters World Cup Qualifying

JAMOR, ESTREMADURA, NEW LUSITANIA - The FLF has announced that the Selecção will be competing for a place in the finals of the World Cup. Last time out, New Lusitania, being a debutant, managed only 3 points from draws. Nevertheless, the attendance was incredible, despite the poor performances from being overwhelmed. Although the dream of making it to the Equestrian States is a big one, the team is ready to give it all. One of the players, Breu, even joked it "would be nice to get a win this time out. Of course, we want to get to the finals". Although it's a joint world cup between two nations, the team would like to be sent to the Equestrian side. "As a nation, New Lusitania seems to love the country since it opened up.We might even get great results there, just like the Water Polo team!" clarified Fontaínhas.
As usual, the Seleção will play around the country. The venues have been announced to be the Jamor, Alvalade (Lisbon), Dragão (Oporto), Pedreira (Braga), Aveiro, Coimbra, Algarve and the Sanches Pijoão (Seville). The draw is set to be later on, so the allocation of the matches is still unknown.
Whoever the team waiting is, New Lusitania seems to be ready . FORÇA NOVA LUSITÂNIA!

25th April

Also in SPORT
National clubs knocked out of Globe Cup >
Interview with the National Manager >

------ STL in association with FLF ----- MMXVIII ----- 2018 Lusitanian Year of Music ------------------

by **New Lusitania and the Algarves** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 6:09 am

STL - SERVIÇOS DE TRANSMISSÃO LUSITANA in ENGLISH - stl.ls/en
SPORT
80th World Cup - "EqueStar" / 80º Mundial de Futebol - "EqueStar"

NEW LUSITANIA RECIEVES OPPONENTS

New Lusitania have recieved the draw for their route to the finals. Let's start by saying that it isn't an easy group, but it isn't the worst group. The Seleção will have to play Brenecia and Juvencus, as well as Tobiasia, which they played last time out - three major Top 40 teams. In the route to World Cup 78, they got a respectable 1-0 defeat in Tobiasia, but then lost 5-0 at home. As for Juvencus, it was a 0-0 draw at home, in Coimbra, with a 5-2 defeat away. However, they actually have a better chance than last time, being that they now have a higher ranking and better experience, as well as the fact that the group was even harder last time with a bigger number of higher ranked teams. Joining them will be Debutants Lochario and Stetzra. The entire team agrees that this is a doable group although it does present its challenges.
Their first game will be their hardest as they travel to Brenecia. The 10th ranked team is strong all-around and will be hard to break down. "It's our biggest challenge but I feel the lads will be up for it" said coach, Victor Santa Cruz. Follow Qualifying on STL with the best coverage.

BRENECIA X NEW LUSITANIA - LIVE 25/4 19:00 (GMT) on STL1 and STL Antena 1 (radio)

Group 4 - Grupo 4
Juvencus (40) Olastor (93)
Sargossa (32) Brenecia (10)
North New South Wales (256) Tobiasia (64)
New Lusitania and the Algarves (205) Lochario (UR)
Indusse (122) Stetzra (UR)

HOME CALENDAR
X Juvencus - Estádio de Alvalade - 50.000
X Olastor - Estádio do Dragão - 52.000
X Sargossa - Estádio Nacional do Jamor - 72.000
X Brenecia - Estádio Nacional do Jamor - 72.000
X NNSW - Estádio da Pedreira (42.000)
X Tobiasia - Estádio de Coimbra - 50.000
X Lochario - Estádio de Aveiro (42.000 [including extended stands])
X Indusse - Estádio Sanches Pijoão, Seville (50.000)
X Stetzra - Estádio do Algarve (42.000)

STL in association with FLF - MMXVIII

by **Coldfield** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 6:23 am

Where am I?

I think it's time to tell you the truth.

What? Who are you?

The creator of your reality. I'm the one who keeps you alive.

I don't understand.

Of course a human will not understand. I am the 'god' of your reality.

That means you are behind everything that happened in my world?

Yes and no. I gave humans a thing called free will. Much of what happened is the responsibility of your kind. Humanity has a lot of potential, however, sometimes people have to learn through pain and suffering. Perhaps you learned something after the Multiversal War.

What? Did you send the Zergthadians to attack Coldfield?

Yes.

You are a fucking monster. Do you know how many people died in that war?

Death is just a phase.

It's easy to say that when you're immortal.

I'm not immortal.

Then how old are you?

I'm a billion-year-old omnipotent, omniscient storyteller.

A storyteller?

Your life is not real. Everything you lived, everything you experienced was just a story created for the entertainment of a, let's say, superior being. You are just a supporting character who became the protagonist...

by **Vilita** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 7:28 am

To the Faithful Departed

A look at Vilitan Players & Staff who have Retired or been Omitted from the WC80 Player Pool

Tivali-Ring Stadium, Alikki-Corra, Vilita :: As the Vilita National Team players reported for duty ahead of their first match of the World Cup 80 Qualifying campaign, a number of 'regulars' were not in the clubhouse, their lockers now being occupied by a much younger version of what role they might have played in the team.

For some players, the decision was a personal choice - perhaps a discussion with the Football Association. Could they still play a role in the team? Perhaps - but maybe not at the same level they would have previously contributed - meanwhile they would be taking a place away from younger players looking to gain experience and make a name for themselves.

Other players simply may have lost a step... or six... as they aged and wouldn't have been able to make the team even if they were invited to training camp, so perhaps all parties did the honorable thing and made sure that wasn't going to be an issue.

Kalek Intafel [ - Lonngeylin Coast - ]
GK ( AGE: 37 CAPS: 18 :: GOALS:0 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 68 : ] : Stellar Division : Vilitan Declasse :

Intafel was initially trained in Mavaloiao but was snapped up by the famed academy in Alikki-Corra when the capital-based club earned promotion to the Stellar Division for the first time in the modern era prior to Season 41. After many seasons bouncing around the capital area, Intafel joined up with Lonngeylin Coast to provide load sharing relief for Cilamara Issah during their Vilitan League 57 championship campaign, becoming the first all-Vilitan goalkeeper duo to win the Stellar Division title in the modern era. Intafel promptly retired from both International and Domestic football after claiming his first Vilitan Stellar Division title and is now expected to join long-time club Alikki-Corra as one of it's Academy directors to work directly with players such as young prospect netminder Striitca Virahat

Amarini Baracelv [ - Turoki United - ]
D C ( AGE: 36 CAPS: 16 :: GOALS:1 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 68 : ][ : AOCAF 42 : ] : UICA Series 'B' Champions Cup :

Baracelv, whose grandparents are Starblaydi, was trained at the Alikki-Corra academy before signing a professional contract and transferring to Mliona-Lpaka Turori to pursue International domestic competitions. As a bonus, Baracelv made their debut regionally for Vilita & Turori winning AOCAF 42. Consistent performances for the National Team earned Baracelv a spot as a regular in the Vilitan side and the young defenders performances in World Cup 68, including being a starting player in the World Cup Final, earned him a transfer to Jlinal Cove for V-League season 44. Baracelv returned to Alikki-Corra to help his former club during Season 48. After making a steady career in the Stellar Division the 36 year old Retired from Turoki United and the Vilitan National team prior to World Cup 80 qualifiers. Baracelv did say he wasn't done playing and could entertain joining a lower league side or even taking a new contract in a foreign league to stay active in the sport but was not pursuing a career in management.

Tlikao Muratai [ - Colonial Sile - ]
D C ( AGE: 38 CAPS: 19 :: GOALS:2 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 68 : ][ : AOCAF 42 : ] : Vilitan Cup : Vilitan Declasse : Tropical Trophy :

A Member of the AOCAF 41 Championship winning side, Muratai quickly proved his worth at the international level as well as earning a domestic transfer to Kiiara-Torra in the Vilitan Stellar Division for Season 40, spending a season there before switching to Lonngeylin Coast for Season 41 helping them to a 4th place finish in the final standings and a spot in the UICA Champions Cup. As fate would have it, Muratai would be lured to Colonial Sile during Vilitan League Season 54 as the club took claim to the Vilitan Cup and Tropical Trophy titles, Muratai's first of their career. However success in Colonial was quickly overshadowed by the fact that Lonngeylin Coast, Muratai's long time club, would surpass Colonial Sile winning a Vilitan Cup and two Stellar Division titles after the defenders departure. While Muratai hasn't officially retired from international competition, the 38 year old would likely only be drafted in if there were a rash of injuries or suspensions that precluded younger players from taking part.

Lopaki Kilpter [ - Rammsissil - ]
M RLC ( AGE: 39 CAPS: 45 :: GOALS::SR: 8 ) TROPHIES :: [ : AOCAF 42 : ]

After coming up through the Strike Academy, the younger Kilpter played 40 matches over 2 seasons winning a Stellar Division title before shifting up the coast to Kiiarana to enjoy a regular place in the starting 11. Kilpter was in the starting lineup for the World Cup 68 final, won by Vilita. Kilpter would later return to Lonngeylin and achieve much success in Lonngeylin as a member of Jungle Strike's Vilitan Stellar Division winning sides but perhaps never quite lived up to the billing of namesake Kristoffer in Lonngeylin and ultimately moved over to Rammsissil helping to make the Ramms into a regular contender for UICA places. Retired following Vilitan League 56 and joined the staff at Eastal Lunar.

Altimo Ueboa [ - Tivali City - ]
M C ( AGE: 35 CAPS: 14 :: GOALS::SR: 1 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 77 : ][ : AOCAF 42 : ] : UICA Series 'B' Champions Cup :

Ueboa was a member of the Vilita & Turori AOCAF 42 Championship side. Trained at the Alikki-Corra Academy, Ueboa transferred to Marine Coast United for V-League Season 43 looking for an increase in playing time but only stayed for two seasons before moving on to Tivali City. In Tivali City Ueboa found a home and due to the proximity to the Vilita National Team's home base at the Tivali-Ring Stadium, Ueboa was regularly called upon as a 'filler' player when someone would come down with an injury at the training ground. Ueboa's biggest moment in the spotlight for the National Team came during the opening match of World Cup 74 Qualifying when Ueboa scored a header in Vilita's 4-2 victory over Nizov, Ueboa's only career international goal. Ueboa is joining the staff at Tivali City as an Assistant Manager.

Dalian Magagula [ - Lonngeylin City - ]
M RLC ( AGE: 39 CAPS: 23 :: GOALS::SR: 0 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 68 : ]

After spending the early part of his career in the non-league ranks at Kirota beach, Magagula was snapped up by Declasse side Kiiarana City ahead of V-League season 42. Was a member of the AOCAF 42 championship side with Vilita and Turori.

Lboaisa Akarelm [ - Arcticala Inlet - ]
F C ( AGE: 36 CAPS: 8 :: GOALS::SR: 1 ) TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 68 : ][ : AOCAF 42 : ] : UICA Series 'B' Champions Cup : : Vilitan Declasse :

Lboaisa Akarelm was a member of Vilita & Turori's AOCAF 42 Championship side. Spent early playing days at Mliona-Lpaka AFC and Cednia Beach AFC before moving to Lonngeylin Coast. Spent 3 seasons at Makosile before setting up shop in Arcticala Inlet. Akarelm was originally trained in the Alikki-Corra Academy and earned their only domestic trophy in their very first season of competition with the Academy, winning the Declasse title. Akarelm put up solid numbers at Arcticala Inlet before announcing their retirement at the end of the Vilitan League 56 campaign. Perhaps knowing the end was near, Akarelm put in career high numbers for the Electricians ultimately finishing as runner up in the Stellar Division Golden Boot, earning a Standing ovation at the Arcticala Electrical Stadium and being named Arcticala Inlet's Player of the Season, perhaps in a way going out at the top of their game.

The Vilitan NT Coaching Staff [ - Vilitan National Team - ]
Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Coaches Coach, Spirit Guru, Jungle Cat Whisperer and resident Eggspert TROPHIES :: [ : World Cup 77 : ]

After bringing the World Cup home to Vilita for the third time in history and second time in 10 cycles, the Vilitan Coaching Staff was nearly given lifetime contracts by the the Football Association of Vilita. Nearly. Now just two cups later, the Football Association of Vilita decided it was time to clean house after an embarrassing Group Stage exit in Ceni & Drawkland that some of argued will have set the Vilitan National Team back years in development and players experience as none of the up and coming players was exposed to international knockout competition of the highest level that will be required in order for the team to compete for another World Cup Title.

In comparison, the core team that lifted the World Cup 77 trophy had fought a long road to get there, with deep Cup runs including Semi-Final defeats during World Cup 72 and World Cup 73. While some argue that Vilita were unfairly drawn in the Group of Death in Drawkland - perhaps one of the toughest group draws available, the bottom line for the Football Association was that Vilita were a Top 3 nation in the World Rankings and did not live up to that billing losing to a pair of teams ranked outside the top 10 (Brenecia, Pasarga) en route to an early World Cup exit.

While the Football Association has thus far been mum about who will comprise the new National Team staff, it is likely that Lonngeylin Coast manager Danie Izmao will be part of the conversation after leading his team to two-straight Stellar Division titles. Others being rumored for National Team staff positions are Colonial Sile manager Viji-mara Lawaai, the ever exciting Nili Ylimaiina and Sports Reporter turned team expert Nikki Kater who some say knows more about the players on the National Team roster than the coaches themselves.

by **Kita-Hinode** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 8:35 am

ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL
National Football Roundabout

National Squad for WC 80 Qualifiers revealed by van Caan
After a lot of deliberation and lot of questioning following last World Cup's group round miss, the Hinodejin boss Sacheverell van Caan took to a somewhat of a national undertaking and, unlike last World Cup's plan of starting the qualifiers with a larger roster, trimming them down before the World Cup proper, he has instead revealed a solid twenty-three player roster, with the possibility of additional players being called up if the needed. Although highly successful, not many names of the Campionato Esportiva winning roster made it to this squad with surprises such as Cherry Whitecastle and Suijin Minami being dropped from the line-up regardless of their good performances against Esportivan opposition, with many believing they both fell out of the squad due to simply not playing up to the level of their replacements. Of all Campionato Esportiva's champions, only Sang Kyung-Ja, Iori Saitou, Varis Eiji and Nina Niikara found themselves once again a Poltergeist.

Besides those, everyone else is new to the national team level including the team's new captain, Taphia Aishin, the first Hylian to ever don the colours of the Hinodejin national team as well. National champion side Miare CosmoStars also saw Park Soo-Jin and Seto Yoshiba called up after their great seasons and other clubs also had the honour of providing a national team member. The biggest surprise had to be Kamalani Kanani, a former reserve of the Hokuto Senateurs who was brought up to play for the main squad only to reveal herself as the best thing the Senateurs had in years. Sassy, fiery, angry and very Hokuto-based, this former gangster wannabe showing up on the national team was quite the eyecatcher at home. Also of note are Puristina Shinra and Krishnamurta Sogeshita, former U-21 players since promoted to the main team. Nine players currently playing out of the country were called up, in the end: Shinra, Sogeshita, Kisame, Tsugoi, Kyunishakuga, Nagatomo and Mizumoto.

"The List of van Caan" leaked to the Internet causes hushes and rumours
Internet users found themselves quite shocked after finding out a leaked list apparently tailor-made by Hinodejin Authorities and the national team's manager. This list was apparently detailed to note several promising names that, for a reason or another, failed to be caught under the radar by major Hinodejin clubs. Some of the reasons are fairly clear, ranging from a repurposed killing machine to a Basque separatist that might've gotten a bit too influenced by one Audioslavia, finally reaching the best creation of Enrico Vespuccio. The unusual character of most of these names is what caught some a bit puzzled.

Raiden Kojima, the first name of these to be signed up, gladly talked with us from the Sunrise Club about his presence on the list and how it helped him to be signed by Vilitan team Crosaibi Rovers. "Well, I admit being somewhat happy about it." He stated while finishing a series of three hundred push-ups all thanks to his metallic arms, "When we got the red light from the Queen, I was a bit muffled over it but I have to say that I'm kind of happy now that I was able to rebound into a normal job." When asked if he'd be capable of being a National Team player, he chuckled. "There's a lot of hacking in football, as far as I'm aware... and I was trained in hacking and slashing. Although then again, I doubt it's going to be the same. Now, if you don't mind..." He then proceeded to slash a mosquito in half with a high-vibration sword, which he smuggled into Vilita somehow.

Other more traditional picks of the list include several graduates that played University level football, such as regularly drunk Sake Sakazaki, rough and ready striker Yu Hu and two former U-21 players in Motoko Kusanagi (now off to Dainer) and Mutsumi Otohime (currently dealing her papers at Cosumar's Goldstaff City).

Former Sunrise NTer Anthony Hawk to run street football reality show
Several Sunrisians have been released from their Daineri contracts after a rise of interest among them towards returning to what used to be the Unified Sunrise Islands. While most of them have been reported up for a contract with Hinodejin teams to resume their football careers, some have already revealed to have chosen to retire from football at Dainer and are now looking at new ventures. This, of course, includes former Sunrise national team member Anthony Hawk.

Hawk, no relation to other more notorious Hawks, was a right back that represented the Northern Sunrisian national team back when players like Tom "Starfox" McCloud, Netto Hikari and Matthew di Martine were regulars until quietly resuming his career as a regular at the Daineri Super League and although never quite winning anything for the national team, he did reach a level of respect in the dragon-born nation. Alas, interested in the new Sunrise, he finally announced retirement from Minigoleada, under a stream of tears from fans, to finally return to the Sunrise, visiting the Hinodejin Empire and buying a house at the municipality of East Mashu, which in theory is just part of Mashu City.

At first, speculation arose that he would tie himself to a local football club at a non-playing role, with rumours even supporting he'd manage last season's youth league champions Mashu Elite HS, possibly just to boost notoriously basic defender Shunmaru Tenryu to the level of his teammates. These rumours didn't last, as national television channel Hinovo announced that they reached a deal with Anthony Hawk to kickstart a reality show, somewhat like "I Wanna Be The Next Audioslavian Football Star", which hit Hinodejin airwaves last year to a moderate success, although with way more of a Sunrisian flair instead of that nation's... attitude.

With scheduled appearences from other former Sunrisian Vaporeons such as Luther Reigns, Dustin Ambrose, Lille Frost, Ruby, Leonilde Moctezuma and the bombastic trio of Ming, Negolossauro Rex and Iau Mangalonga (the last one being pretty familiar to those that are fans of late WC 60s football), not forgetting of legendary Chun-nan national team member and show man Gan Gna Am (which might be a familiar sight to Equestrians), the show will be called Anthony Hawk's Project 8 with the goal of revealing eight fantastic street footballers that were overlooked by Hinodejin clubs with the aim of making Hinode's playstyle resemble the old Cinematic Football (which admittedly Anthony Hawk wasn't present to properly play under) that once trumped Valladares at the Anaias, leading to the Sunrisians' first title run. The show is expected to be a major hit with football fans of all places and might be Hinovo's key towards success out of the Empire. Interested youth shall be aware that auditions and scouting sessions are to start next month and will be led by Anthony Hawk himself.

by **Ceni** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 9:46 am

Vignettes.

Marco Santa Oria: Going Away

Avi Renning | Iain Cyn-Penzag | Zane Kirchner | Sascha Falkenrath | Leo Glasvyrn

When people ask me if I have any regrets about the way my life has played out, I have no choice but to say yes. Even though I had always wanted to play football, get away from my parents and their life, I can't say that everything has played out the way I had hoped. I wish I hadn't parted to acrimoniously, but at the same time, I wish I had gone away sooner. Todo me ha carcomido. Everything has eaten away at me. Could I have done things differently? Yes. Should I have? No sé. I don't know. Am I happy? Sí. Yes. Will I be happy? Nadie puede decir. Nobody can say.

My parents and I visited Lexington when they first offered me a chance to train at their academy. I was maybe thirteen at the time - sí, tenía treice años - and nobody, much less me, had any idea where my life was going. The people at Lexington Victory thought they knew - a stint there, at their academy. My parents knew what they wanted - they wanted me to stay in Ceni with them. Por lo menos, querían mudarse conmigo. They wanted to move with me, at least. I wasn't sure - but I thought I wanted to escape Santiago. Era un pueblo oscuro y sucio - a dark and dirty town, at least to my eyes. I grew up in a family of seven - six brothers and sisters, three older and three younger. Yup, soy el hijo en el medio - I'm the kid in the middle. Today, I'm still in the middle - entre dos idiomas, dos culturas, dos visiones del mundo. Two languages, two cultures, two visions of the world. Back then, I was in the middle too - in the middle over whether to let my parents come with me to Lexington. I wanted to strike my own path, but how could I ignore my parents for the next few years of my life? Wouldn't I get homesick? they asked.

My thoughts came back to earth, back to Lexington. My parents and I were ambling along the banks of the Rogue River, trying to make sense of my life and how it would unfold. A light breeze rustled in the trees, jangling the many wind chimes around us. Majestic oaks lined the river, interspersed with crape myrtles with their fuschia flowers in bloom. I looked at them and saw blossoming flowers in the primes of their lives. "Mami, Papi," I said, tentatively at first. "I want to bloom, like those flowers. Let me move to Lexington. I promise I'll be good."

Mi papá, so dear to my heart, reached down and picked up the remnants of one of those flowers, half eaten by ants, trodden on by perhaps thousands of park visitors, blown away from its tree by the wind. "Mi hijo... we don't want you to end up like this flower, far away from the trees with no hope of coming back."

"But Papá!" I blurted out, caught up in my emotions. "Lexington is only a two hour plane ride away. I'll never be too far away from you."

"But you'll be all the way across an entire ocean," said Mamá, in her tone that always brought me down to Earth. "What your papá is trying to say is - we want you to blossom with us. Don't give up your childhood for something like this. Most jóvenes like you never make it to the big leagues. You blossom early, and then these clubs leave you by the wayside, forgotten like that flower. Don't let the wind blow you away - stay with us."

I almost burst into tears. How could my parents take away my dreams, just like that, in the snap of a finger? I lashed out. "What if I want to blow away in the wind?" I shouted at them. "You always try to tie things down, but the wind always blows them away. Every petal on that tree will blow away, or die of old age. You can't hold on to me forever. It's a natural process, and you can't stop it. Let nature take its course; mine tells me to come here. Besides, I'll be safe here - no gangs can rough me up in Lexington." I was referring to the gangs that sometimes shook up the family business in Santiago.

"He does have a point there, Carmen," mi papá said. "But I think we're mostly on the same page here - we don't think this will be good for you," he continued, turning to me. "Mi hijo, hay algo que tienes que comprender." There's something you have to understand. "El mundo es un lugar aterrador. Queremos protegerte." The world is a scary place. We want to protect you.

"I'm not scared of the world, Papá." The tears finally came out of my eyes. "I love you, and I love nuestra casa y nuestra familia, but the time for change has come. You have long sought to restrict me to our culture and our way of life, but the other culture calls me."

"You cannot forget your heritage, Marco," Mamá said firmly. "And you cannot forget that los gringos are out to get you. Remember build the wall? That's the kind of thinking the rest of the world has. They want to defend against us. They want us gone."

"Why do you listen to those nativist hijos de putas, Mamá? They don't represent the whole world! My mind is set. I've made my decision. Whether you like it or not, I'm signing that contract."

"You forget one thing, mi hijo," said Mamá. "Recuerdas que tenemos que firmar el contracto." Remember that we have to sign the contract. "No quiero. No lo firmaré." I don't want to. I won't sign it.

Papá took Mamá aside, to have a separate conversation. They whispered to each other loudly: mi papi seemed to agree with both me and Mamá at the same instant, at least based on what he had said earlier. I had valid points - I knew that - but would they listen? The argument in whispers continued, before they turned around to face me.

"Of course we want what's best for you, and that's why we've kept opposing this," said Mamá. "I'm not sure that this is best for you, but your father has agreed to let you move, and I've decided to let you have that decision."

In the longest hug we've ever had, I embraced her. Tears streaming out of her eyes, she kissed my forehead. "I cannot imagine you gone, Marco," she said, sobbing, "but I know I'll have to let go sooner or later."

Eventually, she did: over time, she grew accustomed to my absence, but our relationship did not end even though hundreds of kilometers separated us. Even as my travel schedule has increased, and sometimes we're still half a world apart, we still keep in touch.

by **Mattijana** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 10:06 am

World Cup 80 Draw: Mattijana To Face Schottia In Qualifying

MFO SPORT

Mattijana will face defending champions and world number 1s Schottia in qualifying group 12 of the 80th World Cup after the draw was announced yesterday evening.

Dušan Vukoja, who was present at the draw alongside Mattijanan minister for sport Julian Petrov, also saw his side drawn against Esportivan rivals Super Llamaland and Vangaziland, as well as Rushmori 43rd-ranked Cassadaigua. Minnows Maryloupe, Loynn, Crystalline Caverns, Tomure and Lynchberg complete the 10-team group.

Schottia aside, Vukoja will be relatively happy with his fixture list. Some local derbies will add some needle, but higher-ranked sides are in the middle of their pots and there are no obvious banana skins amongst the lower-ranked teams.

MFO Sport's Sofia Guggensitz caught up with the Mattijanan head coach after the draw.

"Dušan, of course the main talking point after the draw is Schottia. How do you feel about the prospect of facing the world champions?"

"It's obviously a big challenge for us. On paper they're the toughest team we could face, so from that perspective it's not so good and they had a really good run at the last cycle. They didn't have such a great tournament at the independents cup though, so they're clearly not infallible. From the perspective of qualification, we'd rather not play any of the pot one teams, but we have to, so to see how we stack up against one of the world's very best is a great opportunity for the team and one I'm very excited about. I'm sure the fans will get behind us as usual and with their support, we can take away some really good results."

"A few games against fellow Esportivans as well. How did you feel when they came out of the hat?"

"Your head always wants to avoid those kind of match-ups, but as a lover of football, you want to see them deep down in your heart. Vangaziland in particular should be a great match and to have them up first in their patch is a real Baptism of Fire. Again though, it's a great chance for the squad to show some needle and it's a challenge I'm really looking forward to."

"As for the other teams, no obvious banana skins. What do you make of it?"

"The biggest banana skin is one that you don't prepare for, so we'll take care to scout all the group's teams as well as the top teams and to train with our usual diligence. Having said that, there's teams in other groups who we would have liked to avoid and we've managed that, so that's certainly a bonus for us."

"Thanks for your time, we look forward to seeing the team in action."

The draw itself was a curious one. Pot 4, including Mattijana, initially had two teams drawn into group 5, placing Mattijana in group 11. The mistakes was spotted by hosts and easily rectified, but only after a few awkward silences.
The delegation from Northwest Kalactin also caused a stir by heckling the majority of other nations as they emerged and by adding a range of other irrelevent comments much to the ire and dissaproval of other delegations. However the event otherwise passed without a hitch and the contribution from the Kalactinians livened up the early stages, which can often be a little on the dreary side.

With matchday one just round the corner, here's a look at the teams Mattijana will face across the 18 matches.

Schottia

Rank: 1
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 7 (H), Matchday 16 (A)
Manager: Lionel Mah
Player to watch: Evelyn Conjure, CM.
Predicted Finish: 1st

Schottia's success under their Quebecois manager Lionel Mah has been remarkable. The 58 year old took over as a relatively unproven figure 6 years ago, but showed impressive man-management and tactical skills to pilot his team up the rankings, a feat that culminated in the team winning the world cup courtesy of a nail-biting 3-2 win against familiar rivals Bonesea.

Their style is built on a settled, experienced and well-organised defensive lineup. Central defender Gareth Souter is indicative of that, having been in the squad for 118 caps. Goalkeeper Harry Gould is another highly consistent and organised, if unspectacular player.

It is in midfield that the Schottians really excel. Line Stenberg provides the dynamism, freshness and versatility that is so hard for a defence to keep under control. It is Evelyn Conjure who is the star player of the team however. Contrary to the dynamic approach of Stenberg, Conjure provides crisp, concise and organised passing to fully utilise the quality of the players around her and is a key part of the side.

Schottia's weaker area is up front. They are heavily relient on goals from Corinne Martel-Burns who has developed a reputation as a loose cannon having missed tournaments whilst facing charges for assaulting a fan. Her form is arguably more important for the team's title defence as the proven quality of the likes of Conjure.

If Mattijana can slip a goal through a fine net and keep Martel-Burns frustrated, they may be able to nick results. Schottia should however have more than enough to escape the group regardless of their striker's form and will be incredibly tough to get a result against.

Super Llamaland

Rank: 22
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 8 (A), Matchday 17 (H)
Manager: Curtis Steeling
Player to watch: Ansel Penbrooke
Predicted Finish: 3

Super-Llamaland are best known locally for winning the 20th Campionato Esportiva, the first to be held on Mattijanan soil, after a gripping final in Petrovijanka. Their world rank would suggest their full-international form has been good as well, with 22nd putting them second in the group on paper and at the sharp end of pot 2.
The numbers may be a little deceptive however. Despite three consecutive qualifications, the team have failed to progress beyond the group stage at each of their finals and their Campionato Esportiva defense in Copper Cuprum ended in a humiliating 6-0 defeat by Islana Lunigo at the quarter-final stage. Shaky form means that time is running out for manager Curtis Steeling and a fourth consecutive qualification is probably a neccessity rather than a bonus if he is to remain in charge.

The side itself is a balanced one, with an experienced and solid defence, including captain Adrian Lindberg, built upon by some young and athletic midfielders. Up top, Ansel Penbrooke is the star man and a mature prescence. Attacking co-ordination has been an issue for the Llamaleans and they may be reliant on the 32 year old to provide some direction if they are to hit the heights demanded by their fans.

The Llamas should have enough in the tank to qualify, but will likely need a playoff and may leave room for another team to nip in front of them. Should they fail, their direction will be very wooly.

Alpaca coat...

Cassadaigua

Rank: 43
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 2 (H), matchday 11 (A)
Manager: Stephanie Sweeney
Player to watch: Sierra Mattison
Predicted Finish: 2

Cassadaigua surprised many by qualifying for the World Cup 79 after escaping a qualifying group featuring Ethane and Valladares. They went on to finish bottom of group A at the finals, but nicked a 1-1 draw against Cosumar along the way.

Stephanie Sweeney's team didn't have such a great time in their regional tournament however, failing to win a match, finishing bottom of their group and taking only a draw against Dunnes away.

That result may be somewhat deceptive however. A number of young talents were bedded into the side in the Rushmori regional tournament and some of the World Cup 79 starters left out. They return for this alongside the World Cup debutants that impressed the most. 23 year old Midfielder Sierra Mattison was one of those and is predicted to start and provide some fresh force to the lineup.

Cassadaigua are a side used to turning up for the big occasion though and will be eyeing up qualification, even it is has to come through the playoffs. Points will be claimable, but they will be tricky to come by.

Vangaziland

Rank: 106
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 1 (A), matchday 10 (H)
Manager: Jaden Fils
Player to watch: Nate Bennerssen
Predicted finish: 5

Esportivan rivals Vangaziland are the third team from the region in group 12 and at 106, are the lowest-ranked of the three. Mattijana face them away from home in their first match of qualifying however, and will need to be sharp in a local derby that will have plenty of needle in it.
Manager Jaden Fils has a range of skills at his disposal, including winger Nate Bennerssen who's background in freestyling will make him an interesting and hopefully entertaining player to watch.

Vangaziland are still in the up-and-coming section of the world's field, but will be looking to make a statement to the more established teams around the group, and the world. Colony New Gazi have had the bragging rights over the nation so far and were on the verge of qualification last cycle, in the same group as Mattijana who took a 4-3 away loss and a 4-4 home draw away from their two matches.

Reaching the same heights as their neighbours and colony is probably an over-expectation for this cycle, but is a long-term goal for the side.

Maryloupe

Rank: 133
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 3 (A), Matchday 12 (H)
Manager: Cinga Munrich
Player to watch: Karmen (first-name unknown)
Predicted Finish: 7

Maryloupe have very much been on the periphery of success since their debut, but have never reached the same levels as the likes of Filindostan, Northwest Kalactin or South Toronto.

Their roster offers little information other than a basic squad list, but it is a squad that under the continued leadership of Cinga Munrich will be looking for an improved performance in qualification this cycle.

Prospects of that suffered a setback when Marjura was ruled out of the first part of qualifying with an ACL tear sustained during a friendly, but even without their talisman, Maryloupe's position in mid-table should be solid enough, without troubling any of the big boys.

Loynn

Rank: 163
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 4 (H), Matchday 13 (A)
Manager: Unknown
Player to watch: No squad list, but the number 9 looks handy
Predicted Finish: 6

Loynn are in their second world cup cycle, but still have the feel of lesser known minnows about them. Part of that vibe is produced by the lack of a squad list that makes information on the 163rd ranked side very hard to come by.

Whatever the extent of public knowledge, what is for sure is that Mattijana, and the other highly-ranked nations should be beating them.

Despite that there is room for a few upsets in the side and the element of surprise may push them to their highest recorded finish.

Crystalline Caverns

Rank: 237
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 5 (A), Matchday 14 (H)
Manager: Unknown
Player to watch: No squad list, but the defense is rock solid.
Predicted Finish: 8

The crystalline caverns are reportedly linked to the world's 27th ranked side Qasden and if they share any facilities, the caverns are well-resourced.

Although no squad list was provided in the true spirit of some debutants, if the name is anything to go by, long balls will be rare due to the low roof clearance of a cave system and slide tackles may also be a challenge due to the lack of photosynthesis on offer.

The Caverners may be able to punch above their weight, especially at home, but a lack of experience and quality will probably be their downfall.

Tomure

Rank: 296
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 9 (H), Matchday 18 (A)
Manager: Unknown
Player to Watch: There's probably a decent striker in there
Predicted Finish: 10

Tomure are another team of minnows in their first ever tournament and another who have failed to produce a teamsheet.

Mattijana face them in their final qualification match. By then both side's fate will probably be sealed, but Dušan Vukoja will be looking at 6 points from their two fixtures.

Lynchberg

Rank: UR
Vs Mattijana: Matchday 6 (A), Matchday 15 (H)
Manager: Unknown
Player to watch: No squad list, who even knows if they have anyone worth watching.
Predicted Finish: 9

The only unranked team in the group, Lynchberg are completely fresh on the scene and are also totally unknown having failed to yet produce a squad roster.

Lynchberg get underway away at Super Llamaland, a match that will give them a harsh taste of what world cup football is about, still as with Loynn, the unknown may give them an edge over some of their more talked-about rivals at the bottom of the group, but it will be a scrap for any points they can get.

Schedule:

The Mattijanan FA also published their schedule for the qualifying matches, with stadia for home matches also announced.

Matchday 1: Vangaziland vs Mattijana @Vangaziland
Matchday 2: Mattijana vs Cassadaigua @ Stadijo Dinamov, Petrovijanka
Matchday 3: Maryloupe vs Mattijana @ Le Champ Royal
Matchday 4: Mattijana vs Loynn @ Stadijo Katarina Zafarova, Revinka
Matchday 5: Crystalline Caverns vs Mattijana @Crystalline Caverns, venue TBC
Matchday 6: Lynchberg vs Mattijana @Lynchberg, venue TBC
Matchday 7: Mattijana vs Schottia @ Stadijo Nasinal, Burges
Matchday 8: Super Llamaland vs Mattijana @Super Llamaland venue TBC
Matchday 9: Mattijana vs Tomure @ Stadijo Snezn, Snezn

Matchday 10: Mattijana vs Vangaziland @ Garijo Ales Struna, Puljanka
Matchday 11: Cassadaigua vs Mattijana @ Concord Heights Stadium
Matchday 12: Mattijana vs Maryloupe @ Stadijo Nasinal, Burges
Matchday 13: Loynn vs Mattijana @ Loynn venue TBC
Matchday 14: Mattijana vs Crystalline Caverns @ Stadijo OstOtok, Petrovijanka
Matchday 15: Mattijana vs Lynchberg @ WesterStadion, Weststrand
Matchday 16: Schottia vs Mattijana @Harbour Hill stadium, Handon
Matchday 17: Mattijana vs Super Llamaland @ Stadijo Dinamov, Petrovijanka
Matchday 18: Tomure vs Mattijana @ Tomure, venue TBC

by **Sargossa** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 10:13 am

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition - Sport

Historic Threepeat

Blanco Borrayo reports;

It took a while, it took a far amount of booze and it took the Kalactanian delegate being duct taped to his chair but eventually, for the 80th time, out of the pots came the nations that would fight for a place at the World Cup. Fifteen groups of ten nations, that’s 150 nations according to maths, and only thirty places in Starblaydia and the Equestrian States up for grabs. With spaces at a premium the group draw is something of a crucial first step on the long and winding path. If Margaret favours you that path may not be quite so steep, but if she is vexed it could prove a mountain to climb. The journey for Sargossa started in Pot 2 and will take place in Group 4, a group which has presented some pitfalls.

There’s always a slight murmur of excitement as the teams are pulled from Pot 1. What would be the side’s glamour tie? Would it be The Holy Empire or Valanora, nations that positively ooze historical significance, world number one’s Schottia or local rivals Pasarga? In fact, it was Brenecia that emerged from the hat. Brenecia. It’s just not really one to get excited about. Undeniably talented, the Patriots simply lack the pathos of some of the other names in Pot 1. They are solid without being spectacular, favouring physicality over technique. Even their own pre-tournament literature describes the side as ‘dour’. But they also happen to be well drilled, ruthlessly efficient and ranked tenth in the world. Corsairs and Patriots clashed two years ago in Drawkland, with Brenecia edging it 1-0.

Brenecia are expected to win the group quite comfortably but out of Pots 3 and 4 came the potential spoilers. Juvencus, the Cup of Harmony holders, and Tobiasia are no strangers to each other, having duked it out in the qualifiers two years ago and respectively finishing two and three points shy of the qualification places. And both will be looking to go one better this time around. Tactically both nations favour a 3-4-3 formation with Juvencus soaking up pressure before launching lightning quick counterattacks and Tobiasia relying on the goal laden front three of Philips, Ryans and Uzele.

It simply wouldn’t be a World Cup campaign without a Rushmori derby to overhype and happily this draw was no different, with Olastor emerging from Pot 5. Politically Sargossa and Olastor have had cordial relations for many years, with President Gregorio Emparán visiting Olastaryn on one of his first state visits. But whereas Olastor are a major player in Rushmori politics in the sporting arena they hit slightly lower heights. The two nations clashed during the World Cup 67 qualifiers, with the Corsairs hitting four on both occasions. A repeat of that would be delightful.

Cricket is the major sport of sixth seeds Indusse but that hasn’t stopped the Indian nation from having another crack at the largest tournament in the Sportiverse. They managed just four wins in the last campaign but have somehow contrived to move into the world’s top 120. Those four wins would have been most welcomed by New Lusitania and the Algarves, the Republican Empire failing to win a single match as they finished bottom of the group that also contained Juvencus and Tobiasia. But even they must fancy their chances more than North New South Wales, whose risible Baptism of Fire campaign was only spared from total humiliation by a lone win over the Euran Oceania Territories.

If those teams represent the rank outsiders the final two can be consider the unranked rank outsiders. Lochario may be new to the scene but there could be a just little bit about them. Certainly the Finals will be something that happens to other nation but with their youthful enthusiasm and pacey attack they could well catch out unsuspecting sides from the pots directly above them. Which will give them a nice confidence boast before they get wrecked by Brenecia. Then there’s Stetzra. What to say about Stetzra? No seriously, I’m asking. Book publishing is big there, apparently, and Squirrel Kitties frolic in the nation’s many forests, much to the delight of its fat and happy citizens. Which is nice.

These are the nations that will provide the opposition for coach Rafael Barrios’ third campaign at the Corsairs helm. And he’s looking to create a little bit of history by leading the side to a third successive World Cup Finals, something they’ve never managed before. The move from a 5-4-1 Diamond to a more traditional 5-3-2 is expected to continue, with the Dínamo Maturín duo of Marcellán and Marí set to maintain their club partnership at international level. But talented newcomer Matías Cáceres and experienced target man Iván Mayoral provide different options. Vecino and Victorino will continue to hold midfield berths and are joined by the mercurial Rafael Bustamanté, a youngster Barrios threw into action at the Copa Rushmori. A new back three noticeably failed to gel at the Copa in Valladares but the coach is not one to make panic changes, so they are expected to remain. But on the right flank marauding wingback Alonzo Zevallos was an undisputed bright spot of an unimpressive Copa and should prove a potent weapon in this campaign.

by **Filindostan** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 10:14 am

OOC Note: The first half of WC 80 Qualifiers takes place during the final third of the 90005 domestic season. The 90006 domestic season will start during MD10 of the qualifiers.

VeniBlogs
Blogsite by your average Venividicci Fan

Why the Filindos will make it to the World Cup... or not

Yes, you heard it right. We will make it to the World Cup. That's a bold prediction from me. Even if the team is put in a tough group this time around. Have a five-time World Cup champion like last edition's qualifiers? Check. Have a Esportivan powerhouse second seed who had a torrid Campionato Esportiva like last time? Check. Have a veteran Atlantian Oceania nation similar to what we have last cycle? Check. Have dark horses in the group? Check. Well, we almost have a group of 10 with similar characteristics of the teams. But.. no. We have no Baptism of Fire batchmates like what we had last cycle, and our unranked team in the group could do far better than what we had last cycle... So all in all, we'll have a tougher group this time - especially when all the higher seeds than Filindostan made it to Ceni and Drawkland and all the Filindos can muster is a round of 16 exit at the Cup of Harmony.

Let's start with our first opponents in Razenthuria. They had a less than impressive qualifying campaign last time around, scoring just 11 of 54 available points, and finished eighth in their group that Pasarga and Mriin advanced from. Seeing by their rank and with us being their first opponent, we hope to see six points coming to our way from this match with the World number 141. Well, they have one of the most potent strikers in their league, who could wreak havoc if let unmarked. And, oh, the Garudas face them away from home, just at the southern part of Esportiva. And, oh, they kits look sleeker than ours, which still baffles me on why they aren't using their domestic kit supplier, well nevermind, nothing happened here.

We'll start our home campaign hosting Colunberra. The 282nd ranked team in the multiverse participated in this edition's Baptism of Fire, and was placed in a group with Dalmat and Baker Park. With only one win to show, the Colunberrans were eliminated from the competition. We can get another set of six points here, no? With their roster shrouded in the shadows and Filindostani scouts failing to do their job while sightseeing in Banija, maybe we can scratch two points, maybe three off the tally, no?

Next on our list is Nethertopia. The only unranked team in the group. In paper, we can also get six points in this fixture. But if you are an old chap, maybe the name of this nation rings in your ears. Maybe. They already have history in their side, I presume they were perennial Rushmori powerhouses, but I really need to check on it to avoid shaming myself. They last competed in the 71st World Cup qualifiers, failing to win a single match. Maybe we can beat them after all... maybe... maybe not.

The fourth team Filindostan will face is Savalen. While absent the last two World Cup qualifying campaigns, they performed admirably in the qualifying campaign, just missing out on the World Cup finals three editions ago, in a group that Vilita and Mercedini qualified. Not so much information can be gathered or inferred for this nation, so maybe the higher ranked team can get the points. But I'm feeling some upsets can happen here.

Hopefully by matchday five, we can still have a perfect record from the first four matches. It's not impossible, I'm telling you. We won the first four matches of last season's campaign. Oh wait. Five. Until we visited Jhanna and was blanked 3-0 on matchday six. Well, the matchday five opponent is no joke. Damukuni. Ranked 26th in the multiverse, the Damukunians qualified to the World Cup finals, but were bottom of their group, and also had a Campionato Esportiva to forget. Some of their players may be familiar to the Filindostanis after the nation acquired Islana Lunigo, with the players from that nation now being eligible to represent Damukuni at national level. That will be one of the gazillion reasons why Filindostan might get nil points from this fixture. Seriously.

Next up is Eura... Euran Oceania Territories, I'll just place EOT here since it's too long to type, or I'm just lazy, or I'm hard pressed for time since ~~the RP cutoff will be one or two hours away~~ I need to sleep. They were also participants in the Baptism of Fire, but they did not do too well, unlike their Euran counterparts during World Cup qualifying campaigns, and failed to win a single match during that time. Maybe we can get six points from the two fixtures against this team? Maybe, but I'll cast a doubt because it's Euran. And as we all know, Eura Stronk?

The next opponents is a five-time World Cup champions in Valanora. Currently ninth in the latest released NSWC KPB rankings, the Marauders look to obliterate everything in the group, Filindostan included. Hell, some of the players, especially the under-21 players, already played at their home stadium, but the pedigree of the Atlantian Oceania powerhouses, Laborious Hawk especially, will just never cease to amaze Filindostani players and fans alike, and oh. Just saying 0 points is a distinct possibility here.

Another Atlantian Oceania opponent... the third I think, is 95X. Like Damukuni and Valanora, the 95Xers qualified for last edition's World Cup finals. The lowest ranked team at that time to do so... Oh, we could have done that if not for the bloody Cosneolta! Oh wait, just leaving it here...

Going back, they did finish bottom of their group, but the fact that they qualified for the World Cup last season is an understatement, and is a no ordinary feat. We could have been 52nd, but we may feel we could split the bill, oh wait, the spoils I mean.

The last opponent we have is they call the Bisons. Alpine Union. Ranked closely as us at #82, they will be the last opponents we will have, and we hope that it would not be a time where our fate will be decided. Like the 95x fixtures, we could see three points by each team here. But the Garudas hope they can get all six.

There's about it. The difference between the last two editions and this one is that, this edition will have the second and third placers face off in a two-legged playoff to determine who will qualify for the World Cup, a position we weren't able to get when we got third place in our group. Maybe we could have celebrated our qualification to the World Cup finals, eh?

Maybe we can't qualify this cycle. We did very well last season, I'm fearing that the team might have a sophomore slump. And ahem, we can compare it to a domestic club I really hate. Maybe they will fall from grace, like what is happening to a bloody red fucking Spartans I would not hide calling them Fortunates. From domination in the first season, to trophyless bastards the last season, and maybe I hope will also be the case this season, because Venividicci will win them all. Come on you Knights!

by **South Toronto** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 11:24 am

Chapter 1: Teaching The Lads

OOC: I will use brackets for the English translation for the Exzapa, since none of you will know what it means.

Kelechi walked into the room, where all 23 confirmed players in the squad were. They were using Thusden's High School, a school in Trapsan. "Alright man, let us analyse our teams in the group", began Kelechi."We are currently versing Newmanistan, North Dajao, Darmen, Great Chota, South Covello, Main Nation Ministry, Coldfield, Commonwealth of Baker Park and Kita-Hinode which is a very difficult group to get out of. There's a chance we can steal 3rd place from Kita-Hinode if we win a lot of games. Any knowledge of their tactics?" said Kelechi while he got out a whiteboard pen and wrote "Commonwealth of Baker Park" on the board.

"Ono difia noso ola son winnane ola BoF na?" said Tyrese with a confused expression on his face. Everyone turned to him with a mixture of surprised and shocked expressions on their faces."You spoke that much Exzapan! If these miracles keep happenin' we goin' straight to the finals of the World Cup boys!" shouted MIchal as everyone burst into laughter."10 raicyans if you can translate it word for word", said Jamal with a smirk on his face. Tyrese pause for a brief moment, then he said " It means 'Are they not the ones who won the BoF'. Pay up." Jamal sighed and handed over the ten raicyans.

"Nos, difia wereo ma ola final cor difia wereo belten ire Beepee. Ola s'waln tame tor winanane ola STIC"(No, they were in the final but were beaten by Beepee. The same team that won the STIC) said Jay-Jay Rerin. "Fine, next one, what about Main Nation Ministry? All I know is that they're unranked, and play slightly attacking football. Any information? At all? Discuss while I go get me a cup o' tea" statedKelechi. After Kelechi left, there was silence. It was so silent you could hear a pin drop. Finally, after some time Jamal said "Aye, maybe we should focus on our first opponents, which will be Darmen instead of the others. We need to make sure we get at least a draw to kickstart this campaign".

"Nigga ain't nobody here know shit about them, they play attacking football, we don't, and that's all of what most of us know. We still need to get a W but we are going into this game the old-fashioned way. which is going into a game with no knowledge of your opponents whatsoever." said Jozy. A phone rang, and Trevon was quick to answer it. Audio of the person speaking could be heard, but it was too quiet for anybody to pick up on it. "Nah I'm at training b, I can't come home now. You know I am going to Darmen, right? For the football match. D'you want tickets to the match or not? Ya want the VIP seats? Calm, calm. I'm gettin' on the plane at 8:00 pm, I'll come home and pack my things. Alright, bye" said Trevon. He put his phone away in his pocket and looked around at his teammates, who were staring at him. "So your gyal want that dick now yeah?" joked Haris as he and others laughed. "Shut up bruv, she was calling cause she needed me to help her with her article about our team she's going to write. That's why she's travelling to the match to get a firsthand experience," replied Trevon.

"Off-topic, I repeat, we are officialy off-topic. Bruh why is it none of ya'll can actually stay focused on a task. We ain't gonna beat or draw shit if we don't anylyse our opponents and figure out our weaknesses" began Germanpreet."That's how we're going to get better, not fuckin' about like you're back in high school". "This nigga was one of them teachers who gave out detentions for getting a shit result on their tests!" responded Bryan, as again everyone burst into laughter, except Germanpreet who looked frustrated. Kelechi returned with a cup of tea still hot, and asked "So, any information? By the way, here's the team sheet" said Kelechi as he wrote the names on the whiteboard. This was the lineup shown on the board:

"And on the bench is Juan Esteban de Mites, Jacky Han, Trevon Eliezer, Artjorm Petrov, Jay-Jay Rerin, Germanpreet Sachdev,and Michal Bergman." stated Kelechi. "Aw shit bruv how come I didn't make the team?" moaned Jovante. "Don't worry, you'll get your chance next game. I promise brudda." said Kelechi. The assistant coach Kingsley Middleton popped into the room and said "Those selected, go get your things and meet at St.Raiana And Cyanol's Airport." before vanishing into the corridors of the classroom. "I can't be arsed to travel from here to Lordano, that's so long fam." complained Bryan. "It's an hour-and-a-half from here if you take train, wit' yo' lazy ass. Matter of fact, come let's all take train there," said Asmeh. "Well it's settled, let's go get this W man!" Ni Ling shouted as everybody got hyped up, except Jay-Jay Ririn, who was sort of hyped but seemed distracted.

by **Qusmo** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 11:26 am

A popular sport radio host in Qusmo has stirred controversy with their vocal criticism of the Qusma national team just ahead of their maiden World Cup qualifying campaign.

"Look, I know we all know it, but I'll be the one to come out & say it. Avarn-Oxolt Ban should not be managing the national team. And the selections they made for the national team squad prove that."

"I mean, let's look at the manager themself. What record do they have? They managed a club that finished thirteenth in Pug Qusmyra. There are a dozen more qualified managers in our own domestic league, for crying out loud! I know that Fuzpon Qusma has said that Zwac did less awfully than they were expected to, but that doesn't mean they actually did well. And other managers did just as well as Avarn-Oxolt - look at Cralt-Nirlo Fox at Estraj or even Lynul-Zorno Dar at Trosoc. They both beat expectations by six slots, too, but their expectations weren't of finishing dead last to everyone except Mostew. Beating their preseason expectations was actually an accomplishment. The reason that Cralt-Nirlo & Lynul-Zorno chose to stay at their sides is because they thought they had good club squads, & they didn't want to mess with their job security by taking charge of the national team. Avarn-Oxolt knows that what they did at Zwac was a fluke, & they won't be able to do it again; that's why they leaped at the opportunity to manage another bad team."

"And I'll stand by that. Qusmo could be a decent side, but Avarn-Oxolt wrecked it. Our manager has degraded the quality of our national team. Let's look at the players Avarn-Oxolt picked for their squad. Are they serious? Qastyr had the best offense in the league; it wasn't even close. That's why they won both Puk Zama & Pug Qusmyra. That's why they were the only Qusma club to make it to the Globe Cup playoff round. Yet they got less players on the starting XI & on the 25-player roster as a whole than other clubs, like Poldanz. And they didn't place a single player on the starting XI attack. The striker who led that 106-goal offense isn't even on the roster. This is unbelievable. What is Avarn-Oxolt thinking?"

"Now, I know that a lot of you are fans of Rilan-Jerat Nev. Sure, I get it. The kid's young. He beat up on other kids in Puk Juzuna. But he doesn't belong in the national team starting XI. Now, I'm not saying he won't ever be that good, or that he won't get better in the future - but Rilan-Jerat is a kid. He doesn't have the experience, he doesn't have the poise. That's why Trew got blown out of the water in the very first preliminary round of the Globe Cup. They might become worthy of the national team shirt sometime in the future, but that time is not now."

"But that's not the only bad decision Avarn-Oxolt made with regards to personnel. Kynda-Sevet Pec is another kid put in there for no good reason. Sure, they're quick. Sure, they're young, & they'll have some positive press for practically being a baby. But they're not a good player. They don't protect the ball, they can't dribble, & they make countless boneheaded decisions on the ball. The outside midfield is just bad in general. And has Avarn-Oxolt forgotten that the point of a 3-5-2 is to have those midfielders double back to the defense when the opposition is pressing forward? It sure seems like it, based on the players they have selected. They're only meant to go forward, not provide a bit of security in back. And Forzu-Ralox Kal plays so poorly that sometimes they can't even do that. If I had to bet my life on a Forzu-Ralox cross landing in the same city as their target, I'd start preparing my last rites."

"Avarn-Oxolt Ban is a bad manager, &, true to form, they've managed this club awfully. Avarn-Oxolt says they want to manage Qusmo to seventh. Seventh? Really? I'd understand that unranked Gopnikea & 256th-ranked Wolves Clans are beatable foes, but who else does Avarn-Oxolt think we'll vault? Kandorith? Beepee? And they think they'll draw against Beepee in Beepee, in our national team's first trip abroad? Let me be clear: We'll finish ninth, at best. We won't be able to get a win against Wolves Clans in Qanz, we'll lose to Beepee on match day two, & we'll struggle throughout the entire campaign to pick up any points at all - & that's all because of Avarn-Oxolt Ban. Fuzpon Qusma needs to fire them immediately if it wants to salvage anything out of this campaign."

As they were preparing for their first match as national team manager, Avarn-Oxolt Ban was not available for comment.

by **Flardania** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 12:34 pm

霧島面接直列！
A KBC exclusive of the Interview Series, Hikaru Kyosuke
Français|日本語|한국어|English
Discover the World| Kirishinan Broadcasting Corporation

Interview by Uyeda Tanosuke

Hikaru Kyosuke on left, Tanosuke Uyeda on right
Discover the World Intro Song

: Intro begins with a view from space as the world slowly turns below before cutting to a shooting star in the sky in the distance, in a field of cherry blossoms with the words Discover the World written in the night sky. Intro then proceeds to show Tanosuke all over the world eating local foods, interviewing people, attending concerts, football matches, etc. About a minute and a half later the intro ends and cuts to Tanosuke and Hikaru sitting across from each other in a hotel room. Tanosuke smiled and looked into the camera.

T: "Good evening, welcome to Discover the World on the KBC Network, I'm your host Uyeda Tanosuke. This show took my dreams of travel as well as my love of global understanding and allows me to share the world with our viewers in Kirishima, and the world. Tonight with World Cup qualifiers coming up, we have our special football edition of the program. I am here in Akihabara, Kirishima and my guest tonight is someone I feel confident in saying the entire nation has missed. He is the interim manager of the national team, Kyosuke Hikaru!" Tanosuke turned to face Hikaru and bowed his head. "Hello and thank you for taking the time to do this interview but more importantly returning to guide this team Kyosuke sensei."

H:" Eh it's no problem. I don't recall being that special but I do appreciate the sentiment nonetheless" Hikaru smiled warmly.

T: Tanosuke laughed "I see your still lowing expectations, classic move Kyosuke sensei. Now it has been five cycles since you have led the national team can you explain what has led to your return?"

H: Well as you may remember I resigned following our performance during World Cup 75.....my goodness it's been this long. Nevertheless I felt while I was the man to develop the team to this extent, I did not have the background in football needed to bring the team to the next level. We had a poor performance in Qualification and I knew no one was going to fire me so I resigned. I did what had to be done. Now while I was gone I managed the Phoenix in the KPL which as the world has noticed has not been active in international tournaments or transfer markets as of yet. In a way it's like a college senior that neglects many things they used to have time for as they work to graduate and pay the bills. But I digress. After World Cup 79 Katsuragi reached out to me and asked if I could come back to the team, even if it's for a year. I initially told her no as I wanted to maintain my prior position however her response was that emotionally the team needed me which I didn't believe until seeing them at a KFA conference....

T: Tanosuke nodded "I see. What happened at the conference?" Tanosuke asked

H: "So Katsuragi-san practically set me up. I had no idea that the team was there and they had no idea I was there. She told me that the board wanted to speak with me and get my take on how to establish the KPL as a quality league since I manage Tel'Adre. Meanwhile she had manager candidates visit the team one by one for meetings as a test of chemistry and all that. So after announcing that these were choices for manager, that I did not agree to mind you, I walked into where I was told the Board of Directors were. " Hikaru explained.

T: Tanosuke smiled “And the team that was told the person coming in was a candidate were inside as well?”

H: Hikaru nodded. "Yes, now I was standing in shock but....before I could even react...I was being hugged and met with players getting emotional. I was caught up in my qualifications which mind you are still important but the bond between manager and players are also quite important. Considering guys like Yabuta had gone though me and then Seong-san, there was undoubtedly some fear and anxiety over who would take over at this stage of the teams development. I see what Katsuragi-san was thinking....won't forgive her for tricking me like that so easily but I understand.

T: "Why don't you forgive her?" Tanosuke laughed.

H: "Because of her arrogance that's why! Right after being reunited with the team, right in the itinerary of the conference was the press announcement that I would be the interim manager. Now I am stuck on stage all confused and looking at my elbows wondering what is going on. So I suppose it was well played by Katsuragi-san."

T: "She is certainly ambitious that's for sure, now since you have been gone for awhile you have some familiar faces but also some new faces. Who are some of the newer players that excite you the most?"

H: "Well they all excite me but the big one is Miguel Tamayo and Renee Guidice. They are a significant part of the team that has helped the team ascend to greater heights. I look forward to seeing if I can develop them further.

T: Tanosuke nodded . “Thank you once again for coming onto the show and good luck with Audioslavia” He said with a smile.

H: "We just had to face them first didn't we...at least it's not Nephera. Thank you and it was a pleasure being here." Hikaru smiled.

Tanosuke turns to face the camera. "This has been Discover the World on the KBC Network from Akihabara. What will I do next and where I go are the questions to which I have no answer, tune in next time to find out. Stay tuned as Newsroom Tonight is up next. If you missed the travel portion of this program a tape version will re-air after Newsroom Tonight and again tomorrow at 9. Once again I'm Uyeda Tanosuke and this as been Discover the World: change your perceptions.....change the world." Tanosuke said the motto as the Space Ambient Credit theme plays as the camera pans out. The credits begin running down the screen as Tanosuke can be seen shaking hands with Hikaru.

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by **95X** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 12:37 pm

95X Year 74 Presidential Election

After the nation's turmoil and Xi Foureleven's self-declaration of Presidency, an election was held to determine a real head of state. 95X National Election Corporation was formed to plan and operate the election.

There were five candidates:

Although Xi Foureleven asked that people not vote for her, she would appear on the ballot anyway. She never really had any policy or agenda, she just wanted the country to continue as normal without further fighting or struggle.

Andrew Guildman, President and CEO of 95X Manufacturing Corporation, a free market capitalist that believed government, if any, only gets in the way. Considered a viable candidate until telling a reporter "maybe we should consider giving something back to those who have built our wealth."

Don W. Pushman, President and CEO of Pushman Industries, believed the sole purpose of life is economic output. Pushman said the banking collapse of several years prior was merely "a perfect example of the free market", and "a person making any money should be glad they're making anything at all."

Ed Snord, head of Freshflyer Buses, considered a "dangerous extremist" for considering policies at his business such as "minimum wage" and "labor laws". When he suggested an overhaul to the 95X justice system called "due process", he was declared "unelectible" by the 95X media.

Rounding out the field was David Westduke, who had no business or managerial experience, citing leadership given by a "higher power". He believed that 95X was wrong for its rejection of "the good book" and as such the populace would be "reconciled" by "a severe correction".

The election itself was declared a success by the 95X National Election Corporation as it was carried out by "a voluntary association of businesses" in "less than one day". Reality was under 25 million votes were cast. Reports later surfaced that rank-and-file employees were unaware an election was taking place at all; those who did either mysteriously disappeared, were fired, or told they didn't meet the voter qualifications, which were considered a trade secret of 95X National Election Corporation and released on a "business need-to-know basis". Nonetheless, The 95X Supreme Court upheld the results as valid.

Don W. Pushman 19,540,487 (81%)
Xi Foureleven 3,377,368 (14%)
Andrew Guildman 723,724 (3%)
Ed Snord 482,480 (2%)
David Westduke 1 (0%)
Total Votes: 24,124,058

Pushman was declared winner and installed as President of 95X immediately by signing a declaration in his office.

by **Tobiasia** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 12:42 pm

Tobiasia 3-3 Ethane
Pre-WC friendly
An exciting 6 goal epic ended in a draw and a positive result for Tobiasia. Rosa Uzele opened up the scoring with a stunning 32 yard ball knocked into the top left corner.

Just 6 minutes later, however an Ethanian equalised with a shot to the bottom left corner that just went off Percy Matthews’ fingertips. This was followed in succession by goals in the 39th and 43rd minutes by the Ethanian forwards.

Lee Ryans began a run up the left hand side at the 63rd minute, followed by a high pass towards Arthur Slim. Slim knocked it to Eastgate but a defender came in with a rash tackle and the referee awarded a free kick, which Fraser Philips funnelled into the goal over the wall.

In the 88th minute, with nearly all hope lost for a win, Uzele received the ball from Brian Smith, who had come on as goalkeeper in replacement for Matthews as a test of his abilities. Uzele curled the ball into the box onto the foot of Flint Eastgate, who smashed the ball through the keeper’s arms into the goal.

The match has been seen as very positive by manager Liz Sheffield, who hailed it as a wonderful achievement against the highly ranked side. Sheffield admitted more work was needed on the defence, but that Brian Smith could be a possible alternative goalkeeper if needed.

by **Valanora** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 12:59 pm

Valanora Times
Forgetting Calamity

It has now been nearly a year and a half since the Calling and the Empire is still struggling to come cope with its after effects, with Sabine and Caddonia doing its best to conduct the official government business while the rest of Valanora tries to resurrect itself. If there has been one constant though that has allowed the populace to have a bit of normalcy, it has been the practice of sport, in particular the very popular football with the domestic season being played to great avail as the Empire's most famous club won a domestic double and then went on to win the Champions' Cup as well. However even with that, there has been a bit of a shock to the system of Vanorian sportsfans, as they have seen their legendary heroes and familiar faces replaced by otherwise completely unknown human players who likely would never have gotten a sniff of playing time at club side much less with the national team programs had the Calling not happened and the elves of the Eternal Empire were still here in their fullest force.

It seems fitting that in this time of transition for the entire Empire, that the national team change their kits, though quite a few in the Empire are not entirely sure how they feel with the nameplate of the nation being Sabine and Caddonia instead of Valanora or the Eternal Empire, even if that nation is where the official seat of government is. Other than that, returning to the Starblaydi kitmakers of Ediraf for these new kits and the scheme that our rivals to the northeast were able to provide has been with mostly great applause, with the maintaining of the tradition of a navy kit with the home kit, while the away kit does embrace to newest full entrant into the Empire in its red and white hooped design. That this World Cup Finals will also be hosted in Starblaydia is something that brings quite a bit of optimism to the fans of the Marauders, given that the national football team won their first of the record tying five World Cup titles in a World Cup hosted by Starblaydia, some eighty years ago, has them believing that history can repeat itself and a sixth star added to the famous crossed sword crest of the Marauders.

The composition of the team is something of questionable content as well, with five dual nationals in the twenty-three named team for the squad, a fact that pains many of the fans though they will reluctantly admit to themselves that those players are needed in order to field a competitive team. The biggest hope though comes in the form of Sean Smørdal, though that he is not getting the bulk of the stars between the woodwork at Starling is a concern. However the tall and young keeper has all the gifts that many believe will be the key to finally soliving the problem that is the keeper position for the national team, allowing the outfield players a bit more leeway to try and get the attack rolling. With the hero quartet still as the spine of the team, there is the talent and names that any Vanorian would recognize, so as not to completely be relying upon what some would call mercenaries. Whatever you want to call the likes of Lynch and Hackett, they have a chip on their shoulder and the motivation to prove so many people wrong, with both their home nations and the doubtful Vanorian fans.

As for actually qualifying for the World Cup in Starblaydia and Equestrian States, the process is not as straightforward as one might hope, especially with a group that is full of potential pitfalls. Regional rivals and former AOCAF winners of 95X as a mid seeded team in the group is exactly the type of team s in the last two decades that have managed to upset the Marauders, dropping them from the perennial title contender that they were to now just one of the historic sides of the World Cup, though the Marauders have recently remedied some of those demons in the regional tournament. Getting Damukuni as a second seed also means that the Marauders will have to keep their foot on the gas pedal and not let up, for the group title is no guaranteed thing as Damukuni has not reached the top 32 of the WCC ranks by sheer happenstance, this is a growing good football team and nation. With the likes of the Alpine Union and Filindostan also in the group, it means that the competition is quite stiff, with auto-qualification no sure thing. While this will be a difficult test for the Marauders, the leadership and experience of Hawk, Fresco, Soldarian, and va Drake should tip the scales enough that the squad still be atop the heap at the end of the eighteen matchdays.

by **Starblaydia** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 1:01 pm

Matchday One Cutoff

Time is never time at all, and with this the time for your Matchday One RP cutoff has come around.

And the results are in.

by **Alasdair I Frosticus** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 2:12 pm

THE TALE OF THE FLUFFY BUNNIES AND THE WORLD CUP DRAW

Once upon a time, Snowball, Patches, Cinnabun, Benjy Bunny, Whiskers, Twitch, Wiggles, Muffin, Bogart, Fluffles, Snuggles, Snickerdoodle, Pistachio, Popcorn, Hopper, and Twix were all gathered together in the carrot patch.

'We're going to play in the World Cup!' said Wiggles.

'Hurrah' cried the other fluffy bunnies.

'This will be an ever so great adventure' said Cinnabun.

'Just like the time we massacred the Unholy' said Muffin.

'The fields of that planet ran red with blood for weeks, as the corpses of the defeated Unholy piled up in promiscuous and uncountable heaps' said Pistachio.

'Gosh, it was ever so exciting' said Twitch, his cute little bunny button nose twitching, which is how he came by his Warrior Name.

'I wonder if the World Cup will be just as exciting?' said Fluffles.

'I do not know' said Wiggles, who seemed to have been appointed as captain for the team 'shall we have a look at the other teams in the group and find out?'

'Yes, let's!' said Snowball, whose fur was all soft and white.

'First of all there's Free Swiss States', said Wiggles.

'Booooooo!' cried the other bunnies.

'We shall beat them at least seven to nil' said Snickerdoodle, who was a confident bunny with the magical powers of foresight and prediction.

'Then there is Yue Zhou', said Wiggles.

'Booooooo!' cried the other bunnies.

'We do not like Yue Zhou', said Benjy Bunny.

'Then there is Eastfield Lodge', said Wiggles.

'We must no underestimate them' said Patches 'but I still think us fluffy bunnies can beat them to a bloody pulp.'

'We are not allowed to beat opposing teams to a bloody pulp', said Wiggles.

'Booooooo!' cried the other bunnies.

'Next there is Poggers', said Wiggles.

'I think that is a nation with a fine name', said Whiskers, 'but I still think we shall beat them. We are the leaders of the invincible Bunny Legions of Doom'.

'The next team is North Prarie', said Wiggles.

'They cannot spell', said Twix, 'unless perhaps a "prarie" does not mean "prairie" in their language. I do not know, for there are limits even to the knowledge of the leaders of the invincible Bunny Legions of Doom'.

'Then there is Bostopia', said Wiggles.

'Hurrah!' cried all the fluffy bunnies in unison, for while they were terrible bunny bigots, and swift to anger, they did so admire the Emperor Boston's dedication to pouring a nice cup of tea.

'After Bostopia there is Eshan', said Wiggles.

'Ooooooh....' cried the fluffy bunnies, for they could honour and acknowledge a worthy foe when they saw one.

'And next there is Vietmihn', said Wiggles.

And at this the fluffy bunnies looked baffled, for this was not a nation with any footballing tradition, though they were confident of a super-smashing victory.

'And finally there is Natanians and Nosts', said Wiggles.

'Gosh, don't they play at the Stadion Tyrannosaurus natanicus?' asked Popcorn. 'That is my favouritist name for a stadium ever. I can't wait to play there!'

And after running through all of the teams in the group, the cute little fluffy bunnies gathered their cute little fluffy selves together in order to plan their next campaign of mayhem and ever so jolly slaughter back home in Fluffy Bunny World - because that's what cute little adorable fluffy bunnies do!

Hippity-hop, hippity-hop, back into the burrow...

THE END

by **Vietmihn** » Wed Apr 25, 2018 2:45 pm

Eastfield Lodge 2-0 Vietmihn

"The team had made a mistake. They had allowed the other ball to get and stay on the Vietmihnese side of the stadium. A few futile tries to stop this ensued, but everyone could tell-- the team was making futile attempts against the fate of the game. We had hope for the game, they brought the ball to the other side of the stadium a few times, and almost scored once, but that was STILL a few feet away from the goal. Joseph was a good goalkeeper to say the least, but any goalie can let a ball slip in when the match is simply an attempt to make it a less humiliating defeat. It was a good round, and I would credit the team for Vietmihn-- they are still a rather inexperienced team on the international stage, and they showed some good skill against the high ranking Eastfield Lodge team."

- Lawrence D. Hallmark, a rather well-off Vietmihnese soccer fan that took a trip to go see the match.

"Alright, now, back at the field, we are interviewing the famed goalie, our best of the best, Joseph Aaron-Mason. Here he comes..."
That was all Aaron-Mason heard as he was getting some water after the tiring match. It was a tiring match, but a good one nevertheless.
The reporter stepped to wait outside with the rest of the reporters, and when Joseph steps out, he is mobbed by a crowd of reporters and questions, from a simple "This is VBS News, live at the World Cup qualifiers," to complex questions about strategy and the rest of the team. He stopped and answered a few questions of the reporters, and he was faced with another flood of questions. It was getting a bit tiring for him, and he simply walked away. He just walked away from the questions, and away from the wave of reporters hoping to gain fame and prestige for themselves. It was going to be a long time until he got used to this.

A few hours later at dinner.

"This team really needs improvement. You -- woah -- you let the ball stay on your side of the stadium for the entire time? You let in two balls without even scoring once? I didn't expect a success, we're a rather new team, but of all you talented players that the government compiled for this team, I thought you might do at least a bit better than this! We are really going to need to train harder in the strategy aspect of this, and you are going to need to practice together more often. We are going to win at least once, am I understood? If you fail to improve and we become the laughing stocks of the qualifiers, it's not going to be funny. I can get every single one of you replaced by another, does ANYONE here want that to happen?"

There was an awkward silence, and the players looked and whispered among themselves for a few moments. Octavio spoke to the obviously annoyed coach first, that was a good quality he had on the business aspect of soccer. He had a good way of talking his way into things. "Sir, like you said, we're a new team. We will begin to get victories when we get experience. I am sure the rest of our team knows and agrees with this, and I am sure that every single member of the Vietmihnese soccer team is trying their very hardest at the World Cup."
The coach looked at him with a questioning look for a split second, then he looked around at the members of the team, stopping at their arguably most famous player, Joseph Aaron-Mason. He looked back and nodded to the coach. The coach stood up, their dinner had been finished a half hour ago, and everyone was getting tired of the awkward environment.
"I hope to see a better performance next time from this team, but besides this feeling, I hope to end this dinner on a positive note, looking out towards the bright future of our team instead of back to the rather uglier past. We don't only win for our countrymen, but we win for those 30 men-- good soccer players, massacred by the former government quite a few years back.

The next day at a meeting of the Soccer Board, the effective board of directors of the Soccer Federation

"Coach Sachilov, you have stated before that your team was ready and didn't need a good chunk of the extra supplies and funds you were offered by a variety of organizations and people. Now look at what happened to your 'prepared' team. You lost 2-0. You have been given a chance to redeem yourself from this rather serious blunder. You have been given the qualifiers to win or tie a game. If you fail to meet these rather simple standards, well, we will audit your actions and put you under consideration to be fired. Years before this we have been planning, we have been funding you, we have been preparing your team for this moment. Your team did amazingly in the domestic competitions, that is why we picked your team members to be who they are. You don't seem to match their skill. You are now dismissed. Fix your team."

"Ma'am, it was simply that our team was inexperienced and not ready for the world stage. We did well for such a new team in such a bad position. Our team did as well as we could with our inexperience on the world stage."
The Chairwoman of the Soccer Board contemplated this. She looked straight at him.
"Fair enough, you are dismissed."

World Cup 80 • EqueStar • Roleplay Thread

Siv Foss

95X WC 80 MD 0 RP/Year 74 Election

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