Baptism of Fire 68

[Rannoria]

THE ENGLISH TALON
RANNORIA'S #1 ENGLISH NEWSPAPER

Rannoria Prevails!

(Pictured above: The striker, and future goal-scorer, Takar Pak coming on the pitch in place of a tired Maret Swaz)

Rannoria has done it! After an easy victory against Illahee at the Natunolstadion, Rannoria was able to take second place in Group I, and make it to the Round of 32. The 4-2 victory for Rannoria was an easy match for the Iron Swordsmen, as the game could've been considered over in the first half. With Susanto Kader scoring two consecutive goals in the 3rd and 21st minute, and Karsten Sawar scoring a third in the 33rd minute, the game was already 3-0 at half-time. Although Illahee was able to make an impressive comeback in the second half, scoring two goals in a matter of five minutes after the game continued, Rannoria was able to finish off the game well in the 76th minute, where Takar Pak was able to score a free kick. From there, no more goals were scored, and so the game ended at that.

Although this was a happy victory for Rannoria, one player wasn't able to enjoy it with the rest of his team on the pitch. Centre-midfield Susi'anak Gontayy was still recovering from his injury from the match against Tarper, and so he was excluded from the starting 11 and the bench, and had to watch from the sidelines. Of course, though, after the victory, he was allowed to go on pitch to celebrate with his teammates. Unfortunately for him, he will also have to sit out on the game against Rannoria's Round of 32 match. After this, though, he will be in playing condition, and hopes are high that he will be able to deliver well on the pitch when he fully recovers.

Finally, a preview for Rannoria's Round of 32 match. Against Rannoria, there is the nation of Carloso blocking the path to victory. Lead by captain Ignacio Muraga, this will prove not be an easy match, though. So far, Carloso has not lost a single match yet, and thus has come out on top of Group J. Not only that, but their last match's victory was even more brutal than the Rannoria-Illahee match, being a 5-2 victory against Carloso's opponent, Yanghoon. Both fans and players alike have commented on interviews that they are nervous for the match, and that it might end there at Lindersson Arena, but everyone is hoping and pressing for a victory. Carloso, also known as Los Tricolores or the Tricolors, will prove to be Rannoria's most aggressive opponent tournament yet, as they have been seen to play even more on the offence than the Rannorians.

Of course, remember to support our boys on the fields in social media with the tags #PRRCFR and #BaptismRannoria68, and we hope to see you supporting Rannoria either in the streets, or live at Semarland.

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RANNORIA'S ROSTER FOR THE UPCOMING MATCH

STARTING 11
GK - Karsak Malak (#1, Age 24)
LB - Budi Sultana (#5, Age 22)
RB - Wahrim Saka (#10, Age 27)
CB - Merah Vreiman (#2, Age 31)
CB - Pi Heibi (#33, Age 26)
CM - Laki Gontayy (#3, Age 24)
CM - Karsten Sawar [CAPTAIN] (#6, Age 29)
CAM - Jan Krieger (#14, Age 25)
LW - Maret Swaz (#17, Age 24)
RW - Susanto Kader (#7, Age 23)
ST - Hakku Purnama (#9, Age 26)

ON THE BENCH
GK - Mier Chola (#23, Age 29)
CB - Kyyunu Olait'qas (#8, Age 18)
CB - Curas Junipo (#15, Age 30)
CM - Savas Iskandar (#21, Age 19)
CAM - Kola Agung (#24, Age 17)
LW - Takar Pak (#4, Age 21)
ST - Junggu Rashed (#18, Age 33)


the uniforms and people's looks aren't final. just needed a photo for this one since I'm not using a phone to type anymore.

[Squornshelan Remnant States]

Squornshelan Remnant States vs Halfdansodal: Clean Sheet victory ensures advancement, but leaves questions for the next round
Salwan Mynhier, Ruland, Farfadillis

3 Things We Learned:

Team Depth is Strong
The Black-and-Red came into this match without center midfielder Vaarin Strepol. Multiple players stepped forward to fill his boots, and overall, their performance was strong. Shrike Hagaz had his number called again after replacing the injured Strepol against Kedroiqua. His performance, while not spectacular, was workmanlike. He was tireless retrieving the ball, and challenging and pressuring the opposing midfield. While he was brought off in the 69th minute, nine minutes after picking up a yellow card, his removal was more related to Zemen Ystrad's dismissal on his second yellow card in the 67th. Center Midfielder Yideg Abhe also featured in the game, as Lopal Daror brought him on for Zoban Ajao in the 78th, aiming to defend the lead. When Janar Delu came on for Jinkzta Ulcviecel after 82 minutes, it marked the 19th different player to take the field for The Confederacy in just three matches. With Strepol's status still uncertain and Zemen Ystrad suspended for the Round of 32, this depth will be put to the test.

This Defense Works
After two consecutive clean sheets, and a previous match in which we held undefeated Group F winners Cobrio to a single goal, it is fair to say that the Confederacy has one of the best defenses in the tournament. Indeed for goals against, they are currently tied for third with Michine, behind only Cobrio and Vithuland, who have yet to concede. Credit must be given first and foremost to Munib, who has made several important saves over the past two matches especially, but the three center backs in front of him have also been solid, working as a unit to close down and contain attacking threats. Ystrad's sending off in this match may threaten that cohesion, but Ctibor Tkermec looked perfectly capable in the 25 or so minutes he played. He is the obvious choice to play while Ystrad serves his suspension, but Janar Delu and Djabgor Dzarkhin could be pressed into emergency service if there are further injuries or dismissals.

Zoban Ajao Has Arrived
He was relatively quiet through the first two group stage matches, but the big man from Chalesm showed up big time against Halfdansodal. He played well through the first half, but looked like he was on his way to another match without creating a bona fide scoring chance. That changed in the 53rd minute when he found his way onto the end of an sharply bending cross from Tambura. The opposition keeper was drawn off his line, but left in no man's land as the ball veered away from him. Ajao rose above his marker, heading the ball down to bounce a few feet in front of the keeper, rebounding under his outstretched left arm and into the net. Not content with getting himself on the score sheet once, he was also instrumental in creating the second goal. He collected a long clearance out of the defensive zone and, as the center backs gave him space, went on a long run to the corner of the penalty area. Shielding the ball well, he picked out Arlo Damot on a late run, and laid a perfect pass into his path, which Damot hammered into the top corner. it remains to be seen if Ajao can sustain this type of performance, but his earning Man of the Match honors definitely goes a long way toward vindicating the selection committee who placed him in the starting lineup ahead of more experienced players like Demkjo Jzvanic and Girma Mukhulat.

3 Things to Watch For:

Will There be Enough Goals?
Our defensive performances have been superb so far, but in the long run, averaging one goal per game may not be enough for a deep run through the knockout rounds. Of the other teams advancing to the Round of 32, only one, Michine, has scored fewer goals than the Confederacy. The average second-round qualifying team has scored 7 goals through 3 matches, and several teams are in double digits. It seems inevitable that Lopal Daror will have to find a way to coax more attacking opportunities out of his team, without compromising the excellent defense that has seen them through so far. If he can't, we may see an early exit for the Black-and-Red, as they simply won't be able to keep up with the higher scoring sides in this tournament.

How Many Starters will be Missing?
We know for certain that Ystrad will not play, having been suspended. Vaarin Strepol is currently listed as Questionable, and Jinkzta Ulcviecel, who picked up a minor knock late and was replaced by Delu is listed as Probable. While it seems likely that the latter two will play, they may not be at 100%, and it is certainly possible that all three players will be unavailable. In either case, the depth of this team will be very much put to the test, as Abhe, Hagaz, Tkermec, and Delu may be called upon to be key contributors. Don't be surprised if the performance of substitutes and replacements decides the course of the match, either for better or for worse.

Will Kavagrad's Dominant form Prove Overwhelming?
Our Round of 32 opponents, Kavagrad put on a clinic during the group stage, particularly in their last two matches. Following a tight 2-1 victory over fellow second round side, Zeleny Hrebenia, they dispatched Leodomum and Bellarona by scorelines of 5-0 and 4-1 respectively. Clearly both attack and defense are working in concert for the Redhearts, as they are currently both scoring seemingly at will, and smothering their opponents own attacks. While we have, perhaps, the greater footballing tradition, many other pundits can speak to how often form trumps class and history. When considering the possibility of missing multiple starters, this match presents a considerable challenge to the Black-and-Red. Louis-Henri Bonne in particular must be contained, and will likely be shadowed all game long by one or more Squornshelan defenders; by himself, he has scored twice as many goals as the Black-and-Red have as a team.

[Saint Emelie]

LA POSTE D'ÉMELIE

C'EST FOU!

Saint Émelie sealed their place in the Baptism of Fire round of 32 with a 2-1 win against Czarna Gora, albeit in chaotic circumstances in Farfadillis.

Their match location was changed less than 24 hours before it was due to take place from La Fantás in Ferdullaele to Ján Rülánd Dêrmáá in Rulund. Although there was no official reason given for the change, it is suspected that it was in response to La Poste's article condemning the country's attitude and political climate during the tournament.

Despite the late change, goals from Dominic Trion and Símon Pelletiér were enough to see off Czarna Gora despite a late goal from P.Dibra, but despite not being stirred, the team and those who had followed them to the Farf state with the highest crime rate were left visibly shaken.

Several gunshots were heard both inside and outside the stadium and although no one is known to have been killed, one Saint Émelie and one Czarna Gora fan as well as two Rulundese were wounded.

After Camille D'aurais' article two days before the match the FFFF clearly decided to take issue with the Saint Émelie press, but to display their anger by deliberately endangering the lives of innocent footballers and football fans is a callous and immature move by Alex Terán and his governing body. Spare a thought too for those associated with Czarna Gora, whose lives were put in jeopardy by no action of their own.
Of course, none of the 10 teams to have played in Rulund so far should ever have been forced to play there, but to use the stadium and the area as a dumping ground for the teams the FFFF has taken a disliking to is despicable. Alex Terán is as much responsible for the injuries sustained as those who pulled the trigger.

Of course this is not the first time the FFFF have pulled strings to ensure they get their way. Fans of Shofercia, Saint Émelie's round of 32 opponents, were barred from the stadium by order of Terán, apparently due to the fact he "hates their guts."

With two of the Farve's most hated nations playing together at La Fantás in the round of 32, it remains to be seen what antics the FFFF will pull out of the bag. However if they do something, Saint Émelie's own politicians and footballing administration must surely demand something is done by the international community, ideally a transfer from Farfadillis to Semarland for their next match, should they win against Shofercia.

Drama certainly awaits, although from the perspective of Amélie Martín, it is desperately unwanted.

[Semarland]

Cutoff for those in the Semarland half ONLY.

[Semarland]

Round of 32 Results

Michine 1–0 Mareibat - at Natunolstadion, Jansberg, 15:00

Alenburg 1–1 Sorrentopia (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.) - at Stadion Metner, Krsthaven, 15:00

Zeleny Hrebenia 0–2 Cobrio - at Quayside, Kolberg, 15:00

Acheia 1–4 Santa Rafa - at Stadion Reyenoord, Eikborg, 15:00

Rannoria 0–0 Carloso (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.) - at Lindersson Arena, Nuholm, 19:00

Petrovskia 1–2 Blaneu - at Sorensen House, Kanagemark, 19:00

Krenorus 1–0 Dormill and Stiura - at Arkjetstadion, Molsbik, 19:00

Timmy's Tigers 1–2 South Libertopia - at Stadion Jansberg, Jansberg, 19:00

[Rakivland]

RAKIVLAND TO FACE TOBRIA IN R32

Rakivland will face Tobria, a team who topped their group, "It will be a difficult match" Says the manager, "but 100% is all i ask"

(Sorry it was short, Last minute!)

[Farfadillis]

Round of 32 Results

Liongya 0–1 Soute

Saint Emelie 3–4 Shofercia

Kavagrad 0–2 Squornshelan Remnant States (Unexpectedly, this match was organized impeccably)

Vithuland 0–2 Unified Hispania

Oscioru 0–1 Guriguay

Tobria 1–4 Rakivland

Sharktail 3–4 Greater Libertania

Busoga Islands 2–3 Freeport (A surprise firework show went terribly, terribly wrong)

[Michine]

MERDE ! MICHINE BOW OUT AS COBRIO TOO STRONG
par notre correspondant anglais, Alain Outkine, de Jansberg

Michine 0 Cobrio 2 (Warrington 21, 89)
Arbitrage: Eythor Hrafnkelson (nationalité inconnue) Spectateurs: 49,909

After what had been a thrilling and, in all honesty, unexpected ride, Michine's journey through the Baptism of Fire ended last night as the superior discipline and fitness of a strong Cobrio side told over what was ultimately an exhausting 90 minutes from both sides. Lining up in their usual kit once again, the Michiniens were put under pressure from the first minute of the game as Cobrio midfielders
Didier Fontaine and Sylvain Picard made their presence felt, and soon Michine were forced to retreat back to almost a trench warfare stance with seven or eight men forming a line in front of Denis Lapine's goal. This was desperate tactics from Victor Kovalevitch and Valentine Virasstchiouk, but it proved effective for a time; the Michiniens were able to retain possession inside their own penalty area at least, and long balls forward occasionally caused some mild panic in the Cobrian ranks. Gradually, though, Cobrio were able to push further, and on 21 minutes the breakthrough came; Moses Lofuko, making only his second start after a match winning performance against Santa Rafa, outplayed and arguably outmuscled André Tchernikoff and sent a pass back across goal that Lapine could only palm to the chest of Babatunde Warrington, who had the easiest of finishes.
The early goal seemed to settle Cobrio somewhat; while the Michiniens were still rarely in possession outside of their own half, they were able to assert themselves slightly more and build up slightly more momentum, although for very little reward; Pierre Lavotchkine was unfortunate that his sliced shot after latching on to a long Lapine goal kick bobbled wide after a deflection from Garlan Spence, although nothing came for the aventuriers from the resulting corner. Kovalevitch rang the changes at half time, sending on Édouard Mirounoff and a patched up Stéphane Kossenko to try and make something happen, but Cobrio came out refreshed and were able to shut the Michinien game down. Kossenko's contribution in particular was mixed; the midfielder picked up a yellow card for a desperate lunge on Lofuko that left the teenager in tears of agony, before Kovalevitch was forced to take him off after a collision with Cobrian substitute Lamont Dusang reopened his head wounds from the game against Sorrentopia. This reduced Michine to ten men with ten minutes to go, and though by this point the Cobrians were visibly tiring as well, there was very little scope for the Michiniens to work with; perhaps the last chance went begging when Mirounoff squirmed past his marker and found himself one on one with Idowu Cruz, only to mistime his shot which looped calmly into Cruz's palms. Soon after that, Cobrio's forward line found a way past the more loosely organised Michinien defence and Dusang was able to chip the onrushing Lapine; his shot was well wide of the mark, but out of nowhere Warrington found a burst of pace and ensured that that did not matter.
Despite the occasional needle during the match, Cobrio were polite and magnanimous in victory, and Kovalevitch returned the favour by «...wishing them the very best against Carloso here in a few days' time. We will leave the stadium clean for them and hopefully we have left a little bit of our luck behind for them!». While Michine have been left to rue their bad luck today, there may yet be better times on the horizon; this success has piqued the interest of the powers that be back home in the Michine system, as well as the loyal football fans (who seem to have doubled in number with every passing round); by the time the aventuriers get back home they may find a different world awaits them. It would seem that the success of the national team has led to a proposal for the Conseil de Quatorze to secure the renovation of the Stade des Pionniers in time to host the World Cup qualifiers, which - if any action can be taken - would provide a solid foundation for the upward progress of the UMF. For now, though, while this campaign will come in time to be remembered as a job well done, the adventure is over and in its place is only regret. Ce soir, dansent les ombres du monde.

[Rakivland]

MATCH REVIEW: TOBRIA 1-4 RAKIVLAND

MANAGER: "Very pleased with the result, the lads played brilliantly, We cannot get complacent, We must dream, aim high, but don't get complacent"

STATS:
RAKIVLAND
SHOTS: 12
ON TARGET: 6
Goalscorers: Karolsav, Fenorvan(Sub), Karivas and Cvek.

[Freeport Isles]

Baptism of Fire 68: Busoga Islands vs. Freeport Preview
by ESPN Hoofball staff

RULAND, Farfadillis - The Baptism of Fire group stage is finished and the knockout rounds are about to begin, starting with an expanded Round of 32 to account for the tournament's record-breaking size. Facing off in one of the Second Round's most anticipated matchups are the Busoga Islands and Freeport, both nations of great interest to Equestrian hoofball fans, and that's the match that we'll be previewing here.

Despite the Baptism of Fire being a tournament for newcomers to international hoofball, with many nations playing their first competitive matches in the tournament, this isn't the first time that the Freeporters and Busogans have met. Prior to the last AOCAF Cup, in which both teams made their competitive debuts, the Condottieri and Islanders faced off in a friendly in front of a sold-out Freeport Coliseum. After falling behind early via Ikshu Amitabh's 8th minute strike, Freeport rallied in the second half with goals from striker Torvald Royle and winger Puzzle Piece to earn a 2-1 victory.

In the AOCAF Cup, it was the Condottieri who were also the better side. After stunning top-seeded Tropicorp with a scoreless draw in their tournament opener, Freeport impressed in their remaining matches against higher-ranked teams from Ko-oren and the Sultanate of Oontaz, losing by just a goal in each. Though Freeport finished bottom of the group, the respectable performances by the Condottieri against proven opponents inspired confidence going into the Baptism of Fire. Meanwhile, the Busogan Islands struggled in what was admittedly a much tougher group, losing their first two matches to Chromatika and Demot, only looking competitive in their final game against Baker Park, a 4-3 defeat.

Regardless of the results, however, the Condottieri and Islanders entered the Baptism of Fire with experience in a previous major tournament under their belts, which has frequently heralded strong performances in the WCC's tournament for teams making their World Cup debuts. As such, both were widely expected to at least advance from their groups to the knockout rounds, the Busoga Islands as group winners in what was predicted to be a fairly easy Group O, and Freeport as either the winner or runner-up in the far more competitive Group P. The possibility of a knockout round rematch of the two teams' first ever international match was a tantalizing prospect for supporters of both sides and neutrals alike, though most probably thought it would come in the Final if it was to happen.

But here we are: the Busoga Islands and Freeport set to battle again in the 68th Baptism of Fire's Second Round with the winner set to become a favorite to make a deep run in the tournament and contend for the title. Ruland's Ján Rülánd Dêrmáá will provide an incredibly intimate setting for such a marquee match, seating just 10,000 fans, but expect supporters from both nations and a fair number of neutrals from throughout the Glorious Southwest (including host nation Farfadillis) to turn out in droves. The atmosphere should be pretty spectacular, as should the match itself. But what players should fans be looking to make an impact? How will the teams' opposing Equestrian-born managers line up their squads? And most importantly, who will win a spot in the next round? Those are the questions our experts will be looking to answer in this preview.

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UR - Busoga Islands
Nickname: The Islanders
Manager: Starfire
Key Players: Delbin Kasekende (GK), Berihu Abeselome (RB), Marie Sonko (CB)
AOCAF Cup 56: 0-0-3 (4th in Group G)
Baptism of Fire 68: 3-0-0 (1st in Group O)
Starting XI (4-4-2 Diamond): D. Kasekende (GK, #1); A. Eyob (LB, #4); M. Sonko (CB, #5); G. Kinteh (CB, #3); B. Abeselome (RB, #2); R. Abeselome (DM, #6); M. Barbarossa (LM, #11); U. Paramartha (RM, #7); S. el-Salih (AM, #10); I. Amitabh (ST, #9); K. Sanneh (ST, #12); Full Roster

The Busoga Islands didn't earn a single point in the AOCAF Cup, but in the Baptism of Fire they've yet to drop one. Drawn into a rather easy Group O, the Busoga Islands showed no mercy to their fellow debutants, putting them to the sword with practiced ease. Only Pink Floyd FC managed to keep the Busogans' margin of victory under three goals, and the Islanders easily finished atop the group with three wins in three matches. In her team's final match against Timmy's Tigers, the Busoga Islands' Equestrian-born manager Starfire rotated her squad to give some key players a chance to rest and others a chance to prove themselves; the Islanders didn't even miss a beat a cruised to an easy victory. For Equestrian supporters, the names of Marie Sonko, Kadi Sanneh, and Berihu Abeselome will ring a bell, all three Busogan starters who ply their trade in the United League. When it comes to top division club level experience, the Busogans have a clear edge over Freeport, boasting more overall talent and depth than the Condottieri. The Islanders' back line and proven shot-stopper Delbin Kasekende will be key to shutting down Freeport's free-scoring attack.

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UR - Freeport
Nickname: The Condottieri
Manager: Mad Dash
Key Players: Torvald Royle (ST), Puzzle Piece (LW), Kukiri (GK)
AOCAF Cup 56: 0-1-2 (4th in Group B)
Baptism of Fire 68: 2-0-1 (2nd in Group P)
Starting XI (4-3-3): Kukiri (GK, #1); Spotted Spirit (LB, #2); Bloodblade (CB, #5); Alastair (CB, #4); Sharp Focus (RB, #3); E. Cleary (DM, #6); Thorn Bristle (CM, #9); Storm Chill (CM, #7); Puzzle Piece (LW, #8); T. Royle (ST, #10); Sonar Amethyst (RW, #11); Full Roster

Freeport's group stage was much more competitive than the Busoga Islands', drawn into Group P with promising sides from South Libertopia and Miznan. The Condottieri's opener against the Libertopians was a disheartening 4-2 loss that put them in a hole early and manager Mad Dash couldn't afford to make a single mistake or risk crashing out in the group stage. Schweiser was the Freeporters second opponent and were soundly beaten as rumors of their country's impending collapse kept the Schweiserians distracted, setting up a decisive final day showdown between Freeport and Miznan for a berth in the knockout rounds. Thorn Bristle scored an early goal to put the Condottieri ahead first, but Miznan struck back twice to enter halftime needing only to hold Freeport to a draw to advance. But Mad Dash's locker room speech apparently sparked something in his players and they came out of the gate firing. Sonar Amethyst equalized a few minutes into the half and Torvald Royle headed home a Spotted Spirit cross to put Freeport in front. The Pirates battled hard for an equalizer, but were kept at bay by goalkeeper Kukiri, who had perhaps the best half of her career, sealing the Condottieri's spot in the Second Round. Freeport will be hoping that the momentum from their second half performance against Miznan will carry into the match with the Busogans. The Condottieri's biggest advantage will perhaps come from the sideline, with both Equestrian-born manager Mad Dash and his Qad assistant Jon Merritt boasting a track record of WCC success with the national teams of Kazamatsuri and Qasden respectively.

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Expert Predictions

Steve McNotapony (ESPN Hoofball)
The Condottieri were the better team the last time these two teams met, but I doubt this match will have much in common with that one. The Busoga Islands have been arguably the best team in the tournament thus far and will probably be disappointed if they don't at least reach the semifinals. Meanwhile, Freeport haven't been playing their best hoofball lately and will probably be suffering some from tired legs after a brutal final day match against Miznan while the Busogans are well-rested and will be looking to avenge their earlier loss to the Condottieri. This is a tough match to predict, but I have to give the edge to the Busoga Islands with a better-rounded and better-rested squad. Steve McNotapony's Pick: Busoga Islands

Muhammad Ayoub (Busoga Chronicle, Busoga Islands)
It's a rematch of the Islanders' first ever game - just this time, with much more at stake. The Islanders have been clinical in front of goal, scoring 10 goals en route to three group stage victories. Freeport scored 8, so they too, are capable of finishing. This will be a tight game, and what will win this game for the Islanders is composure in the midfield. They will see an aggressive defense, especially from Alastair, a griffon, and the pair of pegasai playing in each of the wingback positions. All three are naturally risk takers, and will go for big plays and big tackles. Can they use that aggressiveness against them? Starfire will have the opportunity to show her tactical skills- it will take quick passing, and good off the ball movement, to use this team's aggression against them. If players like Barbarossa, el-Salih, and Sanneh are up for it, playing high energy, keeping their composure, and running into spaces vacated by the Freeport defense, then they should learn their lessons from their AOCAF warmup match against the Freeport Isles and be able to skate by in what should be an exciting matchup. Our score prediction will be a 4-2 victory [for the Busoga Islands]. An early goal to take the lead, and then a brilliant counter-attacking operation to bury their opponents. Muhammad Ayoub's Pick: Busoga Islands

Dirty Rag (Freeport Free Press, Freeport)
The Busoga Islands have indeed been the better team in the Baptism of Fire thus far, but I think that the lack of a proper challenger in the group stage will come back to haunt them. Aside from Schweiser, the Condottieri's group stage opponents have prepared them well for the demands of a high-pressure knockout match. Freeport's attacking prowess has also been firing on all cylinders since their opener against South Libertopia, being the only team in the group to score on the Libertopians' extremely solid back line. The Condottieri will face another tough opponent in the Busoga Islands, but their experience in elimination games will give Freeport the edge it needs to advance and continue their quest for glory. Dirty Rag's Pick: Freeport

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OOC Note: Looks like I missed the cutoff. Whoops. ESPN is a sports news outlet based out of the Equestrian States. I'd also like to thank Banija (aka Busoga Islands) for providing Muhammad Ayoub's prediction.

[Sharktail]

Gaby leaves the field after sharktail lost 3-4

Two goal from Nabil and one from Gaby not enough to help sharktail stay compete in Baptism of Fire 68 after defeated to great libertania.It was a sad moment for all the team but they do their best and show their best.Gaby say after match"All of us dissapoint after lost but we already do our best.I really thank to coach for give me a chance to play and become a team captain.For all the supporter thank for support us"

match result

sharktail 3-4  great libertabia

nabil 56'75
gaby 88

[Squornshelan Remnant States]

Defense Prevails as Black-and-Reds top Redhearts

In a battle between one of the most potent attacks of the Baptism of Fire and one of its stingiest defenses, the side that kept most disciplined at the back prevailed. Confederate center back Tervi Oleb earned Man of the Match honors, but he stands as a representative for the entire back three, who seemed to be everywhere at once, snuffing out chances left and right and leaving the highest scoring man at the tournament with nothing but frustration. As the centerpiece of the defense, though, Oleb was the man most often called upon to mark Louis-Henri Bonne, and did a superb job. Shrike Hagaz must also be credited when mentioning the defensive performance, as he did yeoman work, playing once again for the injured Vaarin Strepol, sliding back and forth across the defensive midfield to pressure the ball carrier, paying particular attention to Bonne's favorite assist man, Benjamin Mumuni.

The first half was, in truth, a fairly dull affair, particularly for any neutrals in the stands. For the Farves in attendance at Gra Aguaviva Mitologica, who jeered their way through the Confederacy's fist group stage match, a one-nil loss to Cobrio, it was clearly not welcome news that the Black-and-Reds would be making a second appearance in their stadium. While there was a healthy Squornshelan contingent present, the neutral support meant that the overall mood of the crowd was in favor of Kavagrad. This sentiment grew stronger throughout the first half as it became clear that Lopal Daror's side intended to grind out the match, sitting back and waiting for opportunities, rather than pushing too many players forward to press the attack. Those counterattacks, however, often came to naught, as towering Kavagrad center back and captain Axel Anderson was able to cut off aerial service from the flanks to Zoban Ajao more often than not. Ajao looked a bit out of sorts in the first half. He is a player who is used to having his way physically, and to be overtopped by over three inches is a situation he rarely finds himself in. With aerial crosses off the menu, Tambura and Vladcik were called upon to be more creative with their dribbling and passing. While Tambura struggled to create much down the right flank, Vladcik proved a bit much for young Eric Valenti to handle, as the latter's lack of precision and discipline meant he had to be bailed out by his center backs more than once, and also led to a number of free kick opportunities not far outside the box.

It was on one of these lapses, late in the half that the Confederates got their first real chance. Valenti was caught anticipating a run to the end line, and his mistimed challenge allowed Vladcik to cut inside him and into the box. Ajao was not able to get on the end of his low centering pass, but the referee determined that this was because Raymond Alexander had obstructed him, and awarded a penalty to the States, and yellow card to Alexander. As 'The Heartless Redheart' in net stared him down, Arlo Damot cooly hammered the ball into the top corner, where no keeper, no matter his nerves or skill at fingertip saves could have touched it.

Lopal Daror made an interesting departure from form, bring on Eyob Zonde to replace Tambura on the right flank. While one might have expected him Daror to instruct his side to defend the one goal lead, Zonde almost immediately began to contribute to the attack. Not quite fifteen minutes later, he made a further declaration of purpose, bringing off the visibly frustrated Ajao for veteran Demkjo Jzvanic, likely hoping he could feed off the success of his Lublova teammate, Vladcik. For a while however, it almost appeared that the moves had given new life to Kavagrad. Over the course of a dominant ten minutes, Munib was forced to make three saves, and Kavagrad earned two corner kicks, one of which was punched clear by Munib as it swung too close to goal. The other bounced madly around the penalty area for a few seconds before Oleb managed to clear it into the stands. Kavagrad squandered the ensuing throw and Hagaz made a clever outlet pass between two Redhearts to find Damot. After a couple minutes of indecisive movement in midfield, the ball found its way out right to the substitute, Zonde. Playing quick one-two with Jzvanic near the corner of the box, he got around Maguire and broke in on goal from outside. As Calvin rushed out to close down Zonde's already poor angle, the winger smashed the ball into the roof of the net at the near corner, catching the keeper on the wrong foot.

Shortly thereafter, Daror brought Djabgor Dzarkin on for Danin Geladi, a definite signal that the Confederates were done trying to score, and would be parking the bus for the remaining ten minutes or so. Kavagrad has almost all of the ball for the rest of the match, but the sheer number of red and black striped shirts between them and the net made it impossible to generate any real chances. Most of their shots in that span were high and wide, and the couple that were on target posed little difficulty for Munib.

Squornshelan Remnant States next match will be against Unified Hispania at La Gran Avenida in Puerto Farolero, another familiar venue, as the SRS defeated Kedroiqua there on the second matchday of the Group Stage. Unified Hispania is a truly massive nation with over 600 million inhabitants and should be considered serious contenders for the BoF title. They were capable, but not spectacular during the group stage, finishing second in Group H, but looked very impressive in taking down the previously undefeated and un-scored-upon Vithuland by a score of 2-0.

Kavagrad  0 - 2  Squornshelan Remnant States
                 Damot 43' (PK)
                 Zonde 74'

Man of the Match: Tervi Oleb

KVG: Calvin; Maguire, Anderson, Alexander, Valenti; Wordsmith, Keelie; Mumuni, Gordon-Cameron; Bonne, Pyke
SRS: Munib; Geladi (Dzarkin 79), Raktsov, Oleb, Tkermec, Ulcviecel; Tambura (Zonde 45), Hagaz, Damot, Vladcik; Ajao (Jzvanic 59)

Vaarin Strepol and Zemen Ystrad will return for the Round of 16, Eyob Zonde will start in place of Vrenz Tambura

[Krenorus]

https://www.kbc.com.kr/sports/kren_win_rndof32

Krenorussian Broadcasting Company

Rex Roses, KBC SPORTS

Arkjetstadion, Molsbik - The Eagle-Eyed Fighters played against the Dormill and Sturia's team today. It was a great match for our boys and the hearts of Krenorus are quite elated still after winning spectacularly against the last team Our Boys faced. The match is noted for how the Krenorussians were able to stop the opposing team from attacking often by being extremely aggressive. In the post-match conference, Leonard Lionels said that Krenorus had 'will continue winning'.

Change(s) on Krenorussian Team for this Match

Lord Ryland van Gaal > Carson Lee

Rouge James < Keeshawn Kenneth
Charlie MacMasters < Keegan Kenneth
Kieran Bowen < Caleb Kenneth

Mid-game Changes

None
 
( > ) equals ( Replaced by Player on Reserve Team [ Until next table change ] )
( < ) equals ( Replaced by Player on Original Team [ Until next table change ] )

The game started off with the opposing team taking the ball. One of the opponents charged with the ball through Arrowson, doing a spectacular move by kicking the ball through between Arrowson's feet while dodging to the left and returning to the right once past Arrowson. The crowd of Dormill and Sturia cheered as the opponent charged forward. He dodged Niles and Phillips and shot the ball at the goal. Fireson, who was the head goalkeeper now that Krusen had broken his arm. Fireson jumped high and grabbed the ball with his right hand. The crowd went wild as Fireson walked forward and the did the Cross of the Fireson, his family's sign of recognition. It praised Jesus for letting the family of the Fireson's come into existence. He then proceeded to drop the ball and kick it. It flew high into the air and landed near Carson Lee, who had replaced Lord van Gaal for today's match due to the Lord being exhausted. Carson quickly took control of the ball and shot it. It went into the goal and the crowd cheered. After that, Krenorus continued to be aggressive, not satisfied scoring but one goal.

Although the Krenorussians were aggressive, the opposing goalkeeper was able to make spectacular saves. There were times when the opposing team nearly scored an equalizer, but the newly rested Bowen, MacMasters, and James stopped them. Overall, it was an average but good game for Krenorus. The Fighters are looking forward to the next game. God bless Krenorus! Hopefully, Lord willing and the Rivers ain't gonna' rise.

*Footsoccerman is the Krenorussian 'word' for Footballer. A shortening of said word is Soccerman.

About the Author: Rex Roses (b. 1952) is a Krenorussian Sports Commentator who was a footsoccer legend for New London FC (1970 - 1974) and Hawksons FSC (1974 - 1987). He was also the manager of Clovex Knights Assocer Club (2000 - 2005) and Hawksons FSC (2005 - 2015), bringing them both to the top spot in the Eminent's League.

Krenorus v. Dormill and Sturia | Results

Win . . . 1 - 0 

Scorers: 

Carson Lee, Krenorus

Unfortunetly, I can't find the roster for Dormill and Sturia.

[Santa Rafa]

Acheia 1–4 Santa Rafa

Starting XI: Lucero, Valdez-Alvarado (51')-Oro-Ayala (25'), Delgado-Valenzuela, Khatri (off 75'), McRae -Nunes-Herrera (17')
Subs: Caballero, Ortega, Villabla, Ortiz (on 75'), Barco, Borriega, Alicante

A clinical, convincing win for the red and black after two relatively shaky victories. The Rafanos remain perfect in the Baptism of Fire, but it is a foregone conclusion that their hardest matches are ahead of them.

The youngsters Liam McRae and Miguel Herrera got the party started as McRae won a footrace against one of Acheia's centerbacks, forcing the keeper to make the impossible choice between two offensive weapons. Ayala would score next, firing a rocket from outside the eighteen that caught the keeper off his line and found the back of the net.

An impeccable set piece from Acheia put the match back within a goal shortly after half, but the Rafanos answered quickly with a powerful head from Miguel Alvarado to retain the two-goal lead. The final nail would be put into the coffin when Eusebio Ortiz, a defensive sub brought in to see the game through to the whistle, found himself unmarked in front of the goal and buried it for his first in the Baptism.

Liam y Carlotta, parte uno
Liam y Carlotta, parte dos
Liam y Carlotta, parte tres
This part of the story is told by Emmanuel Ortega, younger brother of Santa Rafa player Hector Ortega

San Lorenzo is the third-largest city in Santa Rafa after Santa Rafita and Costa Acero, if you don't count some of the glitzier suburbs of Rafita as separate cities, which I don't. I don't always count Santa Rafita as a place either, or at least as part of the same country where I live. It’s more like an alternate dimension, a bubble where the rules are altered so people can get jobs without government or union connections, the gendarmeries do their jobs instead of skulldragging teenagers for fun, and people can go to church on Sundays without being accused of being dissidents.

If I sound bitter, it's because I am. Growing up here has that effect. My big brother, Hector never forgot where he came from, not even when he got his first start for Club Deportivo Tercer Ciudad at sixteen. He's in his thirties now and still gets offers from the blood-sucking big-city clubs every year, and every year he sends them packing. He's San Lorenzo to the bone, just like me, which made it all the more awkward when we had to put a bag over his head.

"It's for your own comfort," Javier told him, face concealed behind a skull mask. "This way, if there's a snitch, we know for sure it isn't you, and you don't have to worry."

To his credit, Hector took it pretty well, sitting in the back of the 4x4 between two masked ultras, leaning forward, elbows on knees like he was riding the bench in a match. Javier drove and I rode shotgun as we weaved through darkened alleys. There was a time when every factory in San Lorenzo had three shifts working, with loud bells for shift changes. These days, any given shop was lucky to have a single shift. The whole industrial district shut down after dark, but the cops might still be out.

We drove without headlights, relying on the dim streetlights, the moon, and Javier's knowledge of the area. Our "hideout", as we called it, was in the basement of what had once been a plant manufacturing hand tools. Javier had been a foreman there, had made enough money to support his family and take them to the shore every summer until the new goverment in Santa Rafita had opened up the market to imports. The day that legislation was signed, container ships were already queued up at Costa Acero, leaden with enough foreign-made tools to stock every hardware store in Santa Rafa. At shift change that day, Javier had to tell his employees that he didn't know how much longer they would be employed.

The factory tried to keep Javier on, but he stood by his men and taken the meager severance. These days he’s a cab driver and unofficial tour guide, chauffeuring the high-brow tourists who apply repeated jolts of electricity to the corpse of San Lorenzo's economy each summer. He looks and sounds the part, milking his blue-collar accent to regale white girls and their bearded boyfriends with anecdotes about the ruins and old town that he learned from books. He’s a real hit, a darling of travel websites, the star of many selfies, but his real passion these days is the Ultras.

Javier was a CDTC diehard before his layoff, but in the course of long days hiding in the taverna, it took on a role it never had before. One day he drank enough to fall in with the ultras as they rumbled with the Capital Elite, our greatest rival, and in his drunken rage, he took on four Elites by himself.

He only managed to get in a few hits before he went down, but the sheers cojones to jump headlong into a brawl like that meant he was immediately welcome into the fold. The Ultras gave Javier purpose and brought out his natural leadership ability; before long, he was the one sending texts from burner phones to arrange brawls and finding family members to sign ultras out of the hospital.

When we got to the factory, everyone knew their part. I scrambled up the fire escape to serve as a lookout while two guys climbed out the back door of the SUV to open the garage door. Javier pulled the SUV in and the door shut, leaving me to stand sentinel until I got the text that they were safely in the basement. I climbed in through the broken window, shuffled down the stairs inside, and made my way to the basement.

If you saw our space, you wouldn't know you were in an ultras hideout; there are no banners, no scarves, no empty bottles of tequila. If we have to scramble to escape, there’s no way to prove we were ever there. The guys who’d ridden with us joined about a dozen more in a circle of folding chairs, like a meeting for addicts. Hector had a chair, too, and he visibly relaxed when he saw me descend the stairs into the basement. I took a seat on his right and clapped him on the shoulder.

"Hector," said Javier as soon as I was seated. "Welcome. Welcome to the Brotherhood. You are among friends; everyone here knows you, and knows what you have done for the club. No keyboard warriors in this circle. But." He let the word breathe as everyone bristled, knowing what he was about to say. Hector leaned forward in anticipation. "We must ask you to do more." Nods of agreement from the other ultras behind their masks.

"It is no secret that San Lorenzo is dying," Javier went on, gesturing to the empty space around him. "But we do not mourn for the city. We mourn for the people, the children going to bed hungry. Something must be done for them. The Plaza Nacional doesn't care, and the city government is too busy sucking up to them to care. The only people who will help San Lorenzo are the people of San Lorenzo."

"I'm not going to lie to you, Hector, what we are asking you to do is illegal and dangerous.

He laid out the plan as plainly as he could, making sure to flesh out the bigger picture. San Lorenzo was dying, with the tourist industry the only hope most of us had to feed our children. The city was built over top of some very impressive ruins of the pre-Columbian people that had inhabited Santa Rafa and been subjugated by the Conquistadors. The Virrey had forbid any archeological excavation that might interfere with its narrative of civilizing cannibals, and the junta had forbid it because they didn't want a bunch of foreign academics blogging about the tactics they used against the inland militias. The federales, though, made it their business reconnect Santa Rafa with its precolonial past, which meant allowing white guys in cotton shirts to dig in our dirt.

The excavation site itself isn't much to see; it's largely closed to the public, and most of the work is done by various types of ground-penetrating radar. The lure of an heretofor unknown civilization, however, is too much for the pumpkin-spice-everything crowd, and they come in droves to drink up what they can. Of course, the ruins themselves are only good for a day trip, so the city does what it can to entertain them in the meantime. That means nightclubs, street festivals, concerts, anything to get people drunk and happy enough to spend their hard-earned money. And it works for the most part, as Javier explained to my brother: the hotels and clubs hire their porters and bouncers locally, and in a pinch you can make enough money selling glowsticks in one festival weekend to feed your kids for a week or two.

But there's something missing. Local craft beer and overpriced tequila aren't all the tourists are after. They want pills, powders, anything that can get them the most fun in the least time. The demand for recreational drugs is immense among the yuppie tourists that flood San Lorenzo, and if it is supplied well enough, that demand will persist long after San Lorenzo falls off the top-ten list. The conditions are there; the cops here are in deep enough that attention from Plaza Nacional is worse for them than it is for us. All we needed was a supplier who could move enough weight to offset the risks, and Javier found one, but we had to prove it to him.

"That is where you come in, cabron," Javier said finally. "We need you to take a small sample of our supplier's wares back from your football match in your kit bag, where the air police and OIE will leave it alone. We move the merchandise, pay our supplier, and San Lorenzo has a future, just like that. What do you say?"

All eyes were upon Hector, but he didn't hesitate. "No," he said. "I won't smuggle drugs in my kit bag. I won't do that to the team."

[Greater Carloso]

By Connor Hurtado from, Nuholm, Semarland, RTC NEWS
Published 16 August 2018, 12:33 (GMT)

Carloso defeat Rannoria 2-3 on penalties

After 110 minutes of brutal, exhausting play between Carloso and Rannoria; nicknamed the Iron Swordsmen, in the Round of 32, Carloso eventually emerged victorious in penalities 2-3. Diego Santander, the teenage superstar from Ebon, scored the winning goal against Rannoria, sending the Lindersson Arena into a flurry of celebration as Los Tricolores secured a ticket to the Round of 16, but only barely. The performance tonight will surely impacy heavily on Gerardo Mercader's selection for Friday, where Carloso is now set to face off against Blaneu, another promising sides. For the entirity of the match, both teams struggled to penetrate the others' defences, putting on an exhilarating but goalless display. Several promising attempts by forwards Santander and Collin Rivera almost hit the target, but were stalled by a phenomal defence from Rannorian goalkeeper Karsak Malak. Carlosian goalie Alex Fernán, whose initial performance against Guriguay in Group J had raised serious concerns, also impressed, stonewalling several attempts by the Rannorian forwards. Notably, Fernán managed to halt a suspenseful free-kick by Susanto Kader in the 74th minute. Official figures released by the authorities in Semarland estimated that over 51,000 people were in attendence. Thousands more fans from both Carloso and Rannoria gathered outside the stadium. Los Tricolores must now emerge victorious against Blaneu if they want to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

The game opened up with the typically aggressive style of play shone by both teams in previous matches, with the ball quickly finding itself on the far-ends of either side of the pitch. Never complacent, Rannoria's Malak managed to block out an early attempt by Santander at the 12th minute. Rivera almost snuck the ball into the back of the net barely five minutes later, but was again thwarted. The Rannorians eventually responded with their own promising attempts, but again fell short as Alex Fernán deflected a close shot from Maret Swaz. Susanto Kader, the star of Rannoria's 4-2 vivctory against Illahee, also came close in the 39th minute. As the clock ticked down and the first half of the game came to a close, the managers of both teams appeared appeared almost contempletive, no doubt analysing how they were going to break the deadlock in the second half.

Carloso came running out in fighting form for the second half. Only two minutes in and play was stalled when Carloso mid-fielder Noah Reid sprained his ankle. Reid was eventually helped off the pitch and replaced by Andrés de Obregón. When play resumed, Carlosian captain Ignacio Muraga found an opening in the Rannorian defence, almost hitting the target before he was intercepted from behind by Wahrim Saka. Both sides, now clearly exhausted by over sixty minutes of aggressive play, had lost steam and reisgned themselves to a more defensive composure. It look liked this was going to change in the 74th minute when Susanto Kader was awarded a free-kick against Carloso. Alex Fernán and the Carlosian defenders remained stalwart, however, and prevented the Rannorians from getting a goal, much to the celebration of the Carlosian fans and manager Gerardo Mercader. With a flat score of 0-0 at full time, the referee blew the whistle and both teams walked off to rest and recuperate for twenty minutes of extra time.

But it wasn't to end here either. Despite several early probing attempts by Diego Santander and Collin Rivera to score, both teams eventually found themselves playing on the defensive again after the break in extra time. With the referee once more blowing his whistle, the game was now going to go to penalities, still scoreless. After a much needed pep talk from Mercader, Collin Rivera lined up to take his shot against Karsak Malak. The stadium fell to silence, Rivera taking the kick with his left foot and sending the ball hurtling into the right side of the net. Malak failed to intercept, diving to the other side. Amidst a muted celebration by the Carlosian fans, the much lauded Rannorian striker Hakku Purnama lined up to take his shot at Fernán, also hitting the target. Captain Ignacio Muraga took his place for Carloso's second attempt, but Malak intercepted the ball, provoking celebration from the Rannorians. Maret Swaz took the second penalty shot for the Rannorians, but Fernán deflected it. Michael Barton took the third kick for Los Tricolores, successfully sending it past Malak and into the goal, putting Carloso up 1-2. Rannorian captain Karsten Sawar successfully equalised when he took their third shot to put the score at 2-2.

The tension for both sides was becoming unbearable, as even the slightest mistake would cost them the tournament. Andrés de Obregón, who had replaced an injured Noah Reid earlier in the game, made the fourth attempt but was frustrated by Malak. It wasn't over for Los Tricolores though, as Susanto Kader also failed to hit the target. It would now all come down to the fifth penalty shoot. After saying a quick prayer and supported by the chanting of the Carlosian fans who had travelled so far to be with Los Tricolores on their journey in Baptism of Fire 68, Diego Santander sent the ball spinning past Karsak Malak and into the net. All the pressure was now on Jan Krieger to save Rannoria. Unfortunately for Rannoria, their Baptism of Fire journey was to end here as Fernán caught the ball in his hands, sending the stadium into an eruption of celebration from the Carlosian supporters. After a torturous game, Ignacio Muraga shook hands with Karsten Sawar, while Mercader did the same with his Rannorian counterpart. The next roadblock Carloso will meet is Blaneu. Blaneu managed to beat hopefuls Petrovskia 1-2 in their own Round of 32 game, offering a new challenge to Mercader's boys as they set the ultimate prize in their sights. The game will be broadcast live this Friday; with pre and post match commentary, on RTC 1.

Rannoria 0-0 (aet) Carloso
(2-3 p)

Collin Rivera 
Ignacio Muraga 
Michael Barton 
Andrés de Obregón 
Diego Santander 

[Blaneu]

The Blaneu Broadsheet

Snellbridge Rescues Game With Subs

In their Round of 32 fixture against Petrovskia last night Blaneu managed to squeeze through, courtesy of two late goals from two substitutes. The changes made by Snellbridge at the halfway mark and with just 20 minutes left to play made an impact, as John Hartson and Gethin Powell both came on and scored late on in the game. These two intervention will help to quell criticisms of Snellbridge's in game management, as he is usually considered stronger at the coaching aspect of the game.

Hopes among the Blaneuan travelling support fell early on in the game as a botched corner saw the ball thud in behind O'Brian. This came as a rude shock early on as most of the Blaneuan media and fans had been fairly confident that Blaneu would live to fight another day. In contrast to the flowing, attacking football played against Rakivland in the last group stage feature, Blaneu seemed to clam up. A tense 40 minutes followed the first goal as Blaneu were pinned back in defense, and saw little of the ball as long-ball tactics lead to them giving away possession far too easily.

The second half saw a turnaround, however, and in post-match interviews players praised Snellbridge's man management over half time. Bringing on Gethin Powell for the flagging Owain Davis, and having young defender James Jones come on also seemed to lift the teams performance. Despite holding more possession and looking more dangerous after the halfway mark, Blaneu struggled to find a way through. MacDaffyd came close with a header off a curling cross from Navarro, but he was only able to steer the ball narrowly over the bar. After the 70 minute mark Snellbridge had his final roll of the dice, sending veteran striker John Hartson on to audible groans from the travelling support.

The break-through came in the 80th minute, after spending most of the game dreading an exit the Blaneuan fans finally had cause for cheer after a spectacular goal from Gethin Powell. After picking up the ball on the half way line Powell ran through acres of space, dancing around the last defender and keeper with the sort of grace that only true greats have. The score was level, but the game still looked like it was heading towards extra time. However, there was one last act in the 90 minutes, as a freekick was conceded on the edge of the Petrovskian area. Leslie Driscoll sent a ball curling over the top and Hartson was first to it, heading it through the keepers outstretched hands and putting Blaneu through.

The result sees Blaneu through to face Carloso, their toughest challenge yet. Carloso have thus far cruised through the group stages, before dispatching a talented Rannoria side in the Round of 32 on penalties. Whilst Carloso seemed to have fewer issues than Blaneu in getting through the group stage, the squad can perhaps take some hope from the fact that they're opponents have played 30 more minutes of football than they were required too, and were also put through the ringer of penalties. However, the psychological boost of winning a shootout may give Carloso the confidence to take on Blaneu.

Petrovskia		1 - 2		Blaneu

O'Brian
Peterson - (J. Jones - 45')
Vernon
Hollands
Driscoll
Sparks 
Starkey
Fitzstephens  
Navarro 
Davis - (Powell - 45')
MacDaffyd - (Hartson - 72')

Subs

D. Jones
J. Jones - (Peterson - 45') 
Gwent
Powell - 80'  (Davis - 45') 
Hartson - 89'  - (MacDaffyd - 72')

***

Opinion: Despite a Superlative Baptism of Fire Performance, Blaneu Still Have Plenty to Dread

It may seem churlish to have a kick at people experiencing joy, but it remains important to ensure we all remain grounded going forward. People need to realize that, despite Blaneu's quality in this Baptism of Fire, they are unlikely to experience any similar success in tournaments going forward, potentially for the next decade.

For all the hype around the quality of the side in this tournament it is important to put it into context, Blaneu are only facing other sides with no experience of international football. It is the equivalent of, in the old world, Gibraltar managing to do well in tournament in which they faced Kiribati, Greenland and Tuvalu. Whilst it is impressive to have won the games they have, Blaneu are by no means world-beaters, and are probably a long way away from being so.

A prime example of the over-hype is the reaction to Gethin Powell's goal, not only from the usual rags such as the Moon and the Blather, but also from respectable pundits working for the BNBS and, indeed, for this paper. Whilst his goal was certainly a quality one, it did benefit from facing a defender who was clearly out of position, and a goalkeepers who's reactions were particularly sedate. In World Cup qualifying such opportunities will be much harder to come by, and, indeed, the stronger sides Blaneu will face may well tear them apart.

Regardless, until that point we may as well enjoy the Baptism of Fire as Blaneu faces, for the last time in a long time, a tournament that they may make it to the final stages of.

[Cobrio]

Kolberg felt like home too. Just not in the same way Ferdullaele had. "Is it just me," asked Chijindum Ekeh. "Or do quite a few people here have Cobre names, na?"

"No," came the reply. Eniola Bankole, the Inzon Hawk defender had spoken up. He had a degree in Cobre history, so was the team's go-to guy for culture. "It is not your imagination."

"Eni, why is this the case? These people, they are not Cobre, na?"

"Ah. There are studies about this. Some think that before our ancestors arrived in Cobrio, they have perhaps settled in other nations. Some think that it was afterwards. Nobody knows for certain, but at Inzon they are trying to negotiate some studies with overseas facilities to-"

"But why would they want to study it na?" Moses Lofuko interrupted.

"He has a point. Don't we have better things to spend the money on? The country is still suffering from the war." Added Folami Adekoya.

"International relations." Eniola shrugged. "If we have a common ancestor, other nations will be more amenable to trade and so on."

"But we don't need outside support," said Folami. "Cobrio is strong enough to recover without reliance on foreign aid. Why should we go to these other nations with our hand out for assistance?"

"I agree." Eniola said, subtly raising a hand in a placating gesture. "But the reality of the situation is that, no matter how strong Cobrio is, we cannot exist in a vacuum. We must involve ourselves in the goings on of the multiverse as a whole."

Folami opened his mouth to protest, but Eniola cut him off immediately. "Why do you think we are here, now? Why do you think they have chosen this time to enter the national team into a global competition for the first time? It has taken them over fifty years to reach this point. This is no coincidence, my brother. We are not here only to play football. We never have been."

An awkward silence descended on the group. "Eniola," called Moses. "Do you think oh this is why they have sent us with the lieutenant?"

"What you mean eh?"

"The lieutenant is military, na. If we don't win, I still have to serve my time in the army. I am not the only one in the squad either."

"Are you saying you think we are on a military exercise, Moses?" Eniola asked, with more than a hint of amusement.

"Not a military exercise, but maybe there is more to this tournament than we realised."

"I guess it is possible."

"Hm." Moses fell silent, staring at his feet.

* * * * *

          Zeleny Hrebenia   0–2   Cobrio
                                  Araya 62'
                                  Lofuko 76'

         Player of the Game: Didier Fontaine (CBR) 

  Venue: Quayside                          Att: 54,000
         Kolberg, Semarland      
		 
Squad:
CBR [4-3-3] | Cruz; Cooper, Johnson, Armstrong, Spence; Picard (Araya 45), Fontaine, 
              Ekeh; Delfour (Lofuko 68), Warrington (Emenanjo 45), Dupre

Cobrio continued their strong showing at the Baptism of Fire with a fourth straight clean sheet victory, this time over a defensively solid Zeleny Hrebenia side. The pairing of Šala and Hrudenka in midfield were exceptionally effective in the first half, crowding out the creative brilliance of Chijindum Ekeh.

"There was some difficulty in creating space for Chijindum," the Cobre head coach, Lieutenant Uwusu, explained. "So we realised the need to make a change, and introduced a second element in that area." The lieutenant is referring to the debut appearance of Mikael Araya in the tournament. The talismanic Incanto Evolution midfielder made an immediate impact, disrupting the midfield game with a direct run at Šala, and provoking a rash challenge -- and a warning from the referee. It was merely a sign of what was to come.

"The combination of Ekeh and Araya shouldn't work, on paper," says Victory Olusoga, the senior pundit at Cobre Sport. "Ekeh likes to move into space, receive the ball, and find a forward. Araya prefers to receive the ball under pressure, and beat the defender, take shots himself. They don't appear to have any similarities in their playing style at first glance." Under the circumstances, this difference in playing style worked to their advantage, however. Araya's direct movement drew attention, and created space for Ekeh; the combination played out perfectly just five minutes after the restart when Araya's run pulled Šala out of position, allowing Ekeh to find Emenanjo -- who had replaced the ineffective Warrington at half-time -- on the edge of the box. Emenanjo's flick on found Dupre advancing from the right, but the winger's shot cannoned wide.

Removing Sylvain Picard from the Cobre midfield was a gamble for Lt. Uwusu -- in the absence of a dedicated defensive midfielder to neutralise the threat of Krnač, it would have been easy for Cobrio to be overrun, you'd imagine -- but Didier Fontaine's calm head was equal to the task, while giving Armstrong and Johnson a reliable out from defence. "Didier was fantastic today," said Lewis Armstrong, the Cobrio captain. "Every time we needed to move the ball out of defence, he was there, making himself an option." Krnač would get the better of the Jraxville midfield veteran from time to time, but the high Cobre line smothered the counter before it could really press on.

The opening goal came a little after the hour mark, when Ekeh, Araya and Emenanjo combined in a similar move to the one they made earlier. This time, Araya followed on, arriving late at the edge of the box to lash a fierce strike on Emenanjo's cushioned header. Deadlock broken, and Cobrio took a step toward the last sixteen. Not to be deterred, the Hrebenaci dug in, and adjusted their counter attack strategy, attempting to make better use of the aerial ability of Kanoš. Just three minutes after conceding the opener, the Hrebenian defence shut down Maurice Delfour on the left -- the winger stayed down, appearing hurt after Brzytwa's somewhat clumsy, if legal, challenge -- and moved the ball swiftly forward to Kanoš, bypassing the midfield with a direct ball from Mlinar. The flicked on header found Kovač on the left, who outpaced Spence before finding Krnač's run. The attacking midfielder had escaped the attention of Fontaine for a brief moment, but his cannon-like shot went wide.

Delfour would go off shortly after, with a suspected ankle injury, introducing the enthusiastic young legs of Moses Lofuko once again. Ekeh and Araya kept probing in midfield, seeking to give Cobrio a buffer, as the Hrebenaci counter attacks startedlooking increasingly threatening. With no more substitutions available, Uwusu could not repeat his Babiri trick -- which had worked superbly against the Squornshelans -- and so Cobrio needed another goal. Get one they would.

Moses Lofuko's pace was a constant threat, forcing Brzytwa to track back repeatedly, and another clumsy challenge resulted in a booking for the Hrebenaci fullback. From the resulting free kick, Ekeh found Emenanjo, but the Impulse striker nodded over. The warning signs were there, however, and Krisar withdrew Brzytwa before it blew up in his face, sending on Uladzos in his place. The fresher legs of the younger man made an immediate impact, as Lofuko no longer found himself with a yard or two of space on the attack. Cobre attacks switched focus, with Dupre taking aim at sneaking in behind Žan Bača, but to no avail. Ekeh, seeing this, went back to Lofuko, picking out the Jraxville winger with a nicely weighted through ball. Lofuko's first touch was heavy, allowing Uladzos to recover, but sadly, his touch was no better, allowing Lofuko to steal possession once again. And Moses parted the defence with a darting run between Uladzos and Mlinar, before shooting beyond Fošek.

Two goals up, and knowing the Hrebenaci offense had been largely reliant on counter attacks to this point, Uwusu sent instruction via Cooper to withdraw, and slow the tempo. The remaining fifteen minutes or so were played out professionally, as Cobrio simply managed the game to secure their win.

[Semarland]

Cutoff for those on the Semarland side ONLY.

[Semarland]

Round of 16 Results

Michine 2–0 Sorrentopia - at Natunolstadion, Jansberg, 15:00

Cobrio 4–2 Santa Rafa - at Stadion Metner, Krsthaven, 15:00

Carloso 1–1 Blaneu (2–2 AET) (5–4 pen.) - at Quayside, Kolberg, 19:00

Krenorus 2–0 South Libertopia - at Stadion Reyenoord, Eikborg, 19:00

[Shofercia]

Victory - the Shofercian Inquirer

The champagne was popping, the beer was flowing, and the wine was pouring as the Shofercians were celebrating their last minute victory against Saint Emelie. It truly was a game of skill and grace, one that the bards would reminisce about for the ages! Shofercians made it into the Round of 16! On a last minute goal by none other than Volk Zabivaika!

There was certainly drama. Lots of it, especially after the hosts denied the Shofercians entry to the stadium, leading to Shofercia's only defeat. The Shofercians were quick to camp out in public spaces around the stadiums, and made as much ruckus as possible, but the insult was not forgotten. How dare they punish us for treating their citizens well?!

In other news, that were totally non related, completely, utterly, just in no way related at all, several leaks of key members of the cabinet of President Alex Teran were posted. This was in no way, shape or form, confirmed by the Shofercian White Hacker Department. "We would like to strongly deny all such allegations" the department's head stated. "The reason I'm smiling is because I just read the funniest of jokes" he went on to say, before nearly boring us all to death and demonstrating his lack of a sense of humor.

For some odd reason, care packages on parachutes were catapulted to the Rulandese. The Shoferican Armed Forces were quick to deny any involvement whatsoever, even though they were rumored to have a couple of fast ships in the area. "Catapults? Those are medieval weapons, and our military is much more modern than that!" stated the military spokesperson. "The reason I'm smiling, is because someone just cracked a joke about that one Earth place. What's true love between countries? When one country deposits its seeds of Democracy, preferably laser guided, into another's fertile crescent, now that's true love. Birthpangs might follow."

Folks, the staff at the Inquirer would like to apologize for the military's sense of humor as well. But now, we go back to what truly matters, the fans. Let's hear some of their comments:

"I cannot believe it, it's like magic, even though you're the bastards that kept us out of one game, thank you Farfadillis, all is forgiven!" stated a young female fan, whom we're rather sure is not named Scarlett O'Hara.

"If it didn't go to the last minute, it wouldn't be Shoferican Football Players" stated an older gentleman, with a touch of gray; we're also sure that his name is not Christian Grey.

"I read rumors that if we make the semifinals, the King shall arrive, and that's always exciting, right?!" asked someone, whom we recognized as a member of the Royal Staff.

On a final note, we'd like to end this rather fine article, by wishing our boys the very best! This paragraph is the only part that we state genuinely, without a hint of sarcasm. "Let's go Shofercia!"

[Freeport Isles]

---

VIP "Luxury" Box
:: Ján Rülánd Dêrmáá, Ruland, Farfadillis

---

Sunset Shimmer, Princess of Equestria and Archmagus of Freeport surveyed the scene before her. Ján Rülánd Dêrmáá was packed well beyond its meager capacity of 10,000. Supporters from both Freeport and the Busoga Islands had made the relatively short flight to Farfadillis in droves, descending on Ruland for their much-anticipated knockout match in the Baptism of Fire. Hoofball fans from the three Southwest Atlantian Oceanian nations filled every corner of the somewhat worn-down venue, craning their heads to catch a glimpse of the teams as they emerged from the tunnel.

The alicorn watched as the players from Freeport and the Busoga Islands lined up alongside the officials for the pre-match ceremonies. As the national anthems played, Sunset reminisced about her adopted homeland. Freeport had been a... far less pleasant place when she'd moved there nearly three decades ago. Ruland reminded her somewhat of those early days before she'd begun her lifelong quest to reform the city-state, though Freeport had never been nearly as lawless, the Council of Thirteen had seen to that. Rampant crime was bad for business after all, but the pervasive sense of a free-for-all was a familiar feeling. It had taken her a couple decades, but Freeport was finally on the path to becoming a more hospitable place to live, especially for the downtrodden. Those breakthroughs had been the key to earning her ascension and status as one of Equestria's five reigning princesses. Freeport was still far from perfect, of course, its citizens had a far more libertarian outlook than those of Equestria, which wasn't likely to change anytime soon.

Sunset's attention was drawn back to the present as the final notes of Freeport's national anthem faded into the night, replaced by the roar of the crowd as the teams shook hands (and other appendages) with their opponents and the referees. The players took their places on the pitch and it was finally time for the match to start. The whistle blew...

And suddenly, from the section below the stadium's so-called luxury box, a projectile shot towards her. Sunset barely had time to throw up a magical barrier to protect herself and her retinue. The area around her exploded into a sea of fire and color. As the alicorn collected her bearings, she instinctively snuffed out the fire, her decades of training with heat magic kicking in. The Freeport delegation was disoriented but otherwise unharmed; however, the Busogans sharing the box with them weren't so lucky, covered in soot and nursing some burns, though none were life-threatening.

It took nearly an hour to settle the crowd and care for the wounded. Apparently somebody had thought that fireworks were in order to celebrate the match, but had forgotten to tell anyone. To make things worse, the launchers were set at an angle, and thus fired them straight into the luxury box. It took almost an hour for the match to resume, but when it did, the crowd soon seemed to forget the disastrous incident and were entertained by the explosives on the pitch, not in the stands.

[Blaneu]

- deleted -

[Farfadillis]

Cut-off.

[Farfadillis]

Round of 16 Results

Soute 2–5 Shofercia (The match was moved to Naš Stadion by FFFF president Alex Terán, in an attempt to tire the Shofercian team cause he "didn't like teir guts")

Squornshelan Remnant States 3–2 Unified Hispania

Guriguay 3–2 Rakivland

Greater Libertania 2–3 Freeport

[Michine]

VICTOIRE ! MICHINE FIND ANOTHER GEAR TO PASS SORRENTOPIA
par notre correspondant anglais, Alain Outkine, de Jansberg

Michine 2 (Aïvtchenko pen 8, Lavotchkine 77) Sorrentopia 0
Arbitrage: MC Jerk Sauce (Semarland) Spectateurs: 47,012

Against all expectation, the Michinien adventure continues to write new chapters, as the national team ultimately comfortably dispatched a hitherto strong Sorrentopia side that had perhaps struggled to get out of the right side of their collective bed yesterday morning. Lining up in unfamiliar all-green once more, Michine had started on the back foot; Sorrentopia took far less time to settle and almost had a chance 20 seconds from the kickoff, when Valentine Virasstchiouk was outsprinted by Roly St. John and was fortunate that his opportunistic shot was some distance over Denis Lapine's bar. Michine duly closed their ranks and prepared to wait the attacks out, but events proved otherwise; Sorrentopia's first corner of the game was headed out by Nicolas Volochine and found its way to an unmarked Alex Aïvtchenko, who saw his chance and charged 30 metres forward with the ball with two defenders in pursuit, managing to round Sorrentopian net minder Anastasio Neil only to have his legs taken from him by a clumsy last-second challenge that saw Willy Pocock pulled off by the Semarland referee. Aïvtchenko was left bruised, but unharmed enough to hit the resulting penalty low beyond Neil's right to put the Michiniens ahead; an event that, looking back at the game, seemed to deflate the Cardinals completely; for thereafter Michine were left unchallenged in their own half for much of the rest of the game, and were able to limit nine-man Sorrentopia to speculative efforts, if that.
Kovalevitch swapped Mirounoff for Aïvtchenko shortly after half time, seeking to preserve his set piece specialist, and the match seemed poised to cruise to another 1-0 result of which the UMF had become all too familiar; there were the usual forays from both sides but little more as Sorrentopia seemed robbed of much of their urgency. The last twenty minutes, though, seemed to see the penny drop that the Cardinals were on their way out, and they resumed a siege and the Michiniens their siege mentality; there seemed to have been a breakthrough on 73 minutes when Braith Maddison headed down under an outstretched Lapine, only for the referee's whistle to bring the celebrations to a holt as Stéphane Kossenko had gone down with blood streaming from his head. In Farfadillis, as in the group stages, he might have had to play on, but here in more professional surroundings the midfielder was taken from the field and seen to properly. Kossenko's replacement, Serge Tchorguieff, was to prove vital four minutes later; taking possession from a botched Cardinals throw-in, he floated the ball 30 metres to find the run of Pierre Lavotchkine, who - unlike his partner in crime Aïvtchenko - was able to round Neil without incident and sliced the ball off the far post and back across the Sorrentopian goal line from a tight angle. Michine were now well in control; two goals and two men up, Kovalevitch's side were content to see the rest of the game out quietly.
There were a few concerned faces in the Michinien camp about the condition of Kossenko, with talk of him having to be transferred to hospital, but ultimately he could be treated at the Stade National's medical centre and released later in the evening with four stitches to his scalp. Stéphane joked afterwards that «I lost about three hours and when I was back I saw Pierre and Alex standing over me looking worried - I told them I went to sleep seeing stars and now I woke up and here the stars were again!». The caravan michinien now remains in Jansberg for the next game against a physically imposing yet technically skilled Cobrio side - who have impressed throughout the tournament despite sticking to a punishing schedule, but nonetheless managed to completely outclass Santa Rafa 4-2 in their game at the same time as the Michiniens. It will be back once more to playing the role of underdog, but Michinien confidence has been justifiably growing as this run has continues; there is a sense that on ne se quittera pas.

Michine vs. Cobrio, 19 août 2018, Stade National, Jansberg
Michine - 1: Lapine, 2: Poliakoff, 3: Volochine, 4 et capitane: Virasstchiouk, 5: Tchernikoff, 6: Baïtcheff, 7: Tchorguieff, 8: Krougloff, 9: Samedoff, 10: Aïvtchenko, 11: Lavotchkine.
Banc - 12: Ignatieff, 13: Kouznetsoff, 14: Alticheff, 15: Kossenko, 16: Mirounoff.