Baptism of Fire 69 - IC Thread

[Sajnur]

Sajnur on the edge with one to go

Jessica Siafik did not enter the field as expected for the match against Bohr, with manager Eliseo Marinon citing sickness, meaning Tomasi Vuierev took the captain's armband for a second match. It is unconfirmed whether her knock against Skarten on Matchday 3 was related to her absence agaisnt Bohr. This proved a sign of thimgs to come as Bohr went on to win 4-1 against a continually fragile Sajnur defence. This result means Bohr has won Group 5. Sajnur's hopes are not over, however, as Ekamijan upset Skarten 1-0, meaning the gap between Skarten and Sajnur for second remains at one point, and a Sajnur victory will secure a place in the Round of 24.

Ezra Serrins took a hattrick in the first half, constantly popping up where the Sajnuran defenders weren't and unleashing a barrage of shots at Piotr Laghiev, while also distributing chances to his teammates. All three of his goals were in a similar fashion, with Serrins finding space in the penalty box and firing one into the back of the net in the 20th, 32nd, and 39th minutes. Bohr thus took a 3-0 lead to half time. Serrins was substituted at the break for Jakob Niebur. The second half started where the first half left off, with Finn Williams scoring from 10 yards in the 50th minute, assisted by Ian Krone in a long attacking sequence. Frederik Tjallor, starting at left back in his second match of the tournament, fouled Williams in the 65th minute and received a yellow card, meaning he is suspended for the final group fixture against Skarten, but the resulting free kick produced nothing. Sajnur finally found some form in the final 20 minutes and Andre Naulo found the back of the net in the 84th, assisted by Rowan Down, for his sixth goal of the tournament. It was only a consolation, however, for the poor result on the day.

"Our performance today was, frankly, poor," said Marinon in a post-match interview. "Bohr passed better, they tackled better, they intercepted better. When we had the ball, we created plenty of chances, but without Jessica, we could not keep the ball in the midfield. They intercepted too many passes. Zain [Hasan] tried his best to keep the ball going around, but he had little support from the defence, from Kaori [Hajat], from the attackers who were isolated. We could not get the ball of them either. It was not a good match. 31% possession is never good for a team, and our defence simply had too much pressure. They could not keep tackling or blocking. Piotr had to make double digit [21] saves again. We especially could not deal with Ezra. All Bohr had to do was keep our defenders occupied, because they could never find Ezra. We need to be better."

Siafik should be back for the Skarten match, but in light of her absence in this match, Marinon is no longer guaranteeing her presence on the field. David Kiral is also expected to be back for Skarten after Tjallor's suspension.

[Balqia]

Sport Report: Baptism of fire edition

The program starts, some mist hovers over the stage, the lights are turned off, “Marche funèbre” starts playing in the same moment the presentator arrives. The lights turn on and reveals him using a black suit with a black shirt and a red tie.
-Hello Balqia, my name is Leonidas Balkoviq and you are watching Sport Report.
The mist rapidly disappears and the music stops.
-Our team reached a massive victory against Robostania, eliminating the nation from the Baptism of fire. More news with our friend Markus Petriq, directly from Eastfield Lodge.
The camera changes to a blond man using a black hood, he is speaking with someone and trying to remove the piece.
-I will not use this, it’s ridicu…
Someone whispers something to him and he turns to the camera with a scared face, who suddenly turns into confusion, he starts to speak while his face turns into red.
-H-h-hello B-balqia. My name is Markus Petriq, talking from the stadium. Today I will be speaking with Leopold Pard, the leader physiotherapist of the team. Hello Leopold.
The camera shows a man wearing a tank top with his name and occupation. He is bald and presents a smiling face, his blue eyes sparks as he looks to the viewer.
-Heeello Balqia. I am Pard, Leopold Pard. I am the leader physiotherapist of the National Balqian Team. It is a pleasure to be here today!
-S-so Leopold, could you talk about the match?
-Of course I can Mark. The match was wonderful. Before the start we were very confident after the victory against flaw, we have won against Robostania before, so we weren’t very preoccupied. However the coach was very, very serious. Clau isn’t the funniest guy around, and after the last lost game his humor is terrible. The team however was very prepared. The boys training was intensified, the coach and his assistants were studying really hard to improve tactics, Clau even read some of his military books, from when he was a colonel.
-So, the match, how was it?
-Oh boy, it was incredible for us. The team arrived with fire in their eyes. We started with defensive tactics to know how they played, but after the twenty-fifth minute we started to attack, and didn’t stop until the end. Balto made three goals. Three. Boy, we didn’t this to be mean, we needed to recover from the goals we suffered. In the first half they even made a goal however, this occured due to our focus on offensive, a mistake, I admit, however, after two more enemy goals we started to be more moderated, now adopting a more balanced tactic.
-So, do you think we have some chances to go to the Ro24?
-Of course I have, we reached 2º place with this game. If we win the next round we surely will be there. And I will tell you boy, with the actual training we are going to be tough to beat. We are giving 200% of ourselves, day after day of hard work. We have some problems with injuries, naturally, but they are mostly easy to deal with.
-Are you excited to the next match?
-Obviously. We all are. It is the most awaited rematch of Balqia since… well, since ever. Also, if we lose and Flaw wins we will be eliminated from the tournament, but losing isn't in our plans, so we will all of us and more to win this.
-Thanks Leopold.
-You’re welcome.
The camera focus on the reporter.
-So, we have won from Robostania and put the last nail in their coffin. A victory of 6-3, will this wave of victories continue or will we be defeated again? The answer will be delivered in the next Sport Report!
The scene starts to fade, but just before it completely disappears we can see Markus violently taking off the hood.

[Eastfield Lodge]

HOST ANNOUNCEMENT: Scorination will continue on schedule. Meaning MD6 will be scorinated in 10-12 hours time.

[Eraman]

Introduction | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 |Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

CHAPTER 6: DAMAISARI

The blackout went on until the morning, hours before the match between Eraman and Third Asopia. Putra Daulapura Suara Petara doesn’t seem like himself. Something is bordering his mind but with an important match coming up, he just has to get by.

But the prince just can’t stop thinking about last night. “Dino, you came from Damaisari. Is it true what happened last night is normal back there and it can go on for days?” the prince finally open his mouth in the dressing room just minutes before kick-off.

“You mean the blackout?”

“Yes, the blackout.”

“It’s true but we are used to it. It is getting better and better now. Before this, we were not even on the grid line and needed private diesel-powered generator for electricity.” answered Dino Sapar who was born and raised in Damaisari but now plying his trade in the royal capital city with Royal Daulapura alongside the prince.

That answer really bothers the prince. He went into the pitch with thousands of question in his mind. With his mind elsewhere, Eraman fails to dominate the match like they did in the previous match against the same opponent. They were run over in the midfield. Luckily, Third Asopia is not taking their chances well. They went to the break with the score still level on nil-nil.

“Dino, would you like to go back home in the future?” the prince asked the veteran center back once again at the break. The match is clearly not in his mind.

“Of course.”

“Take me with you. Let’s move to Damaisari together. You are at the end of your career. Damaisari is playing continental football next season. This is your last chance to play for your hometown club.”

“But why? You wouldn’t last a day there.”

“Try me. I want to live away from the castle.”

“Forget about it, my lord. We have a match to win today.”

The prince nodded.

The second half is as poor as the first half but a corner kick in the hour mark was headed home by the captain, Badang Gangsa just enough to get Eraman the much needed three points.

Next up will be Grod Island. The first match between the two countries was won by Grod Island. The winner of this final group game will top the group and qualify straight into the round of 16. The players must not lose focus as a lot is at stake.

[Libertas Omnium Maximus]

[except from the]
Ashaie never stood a chance against LOM in the Bof

After an exciting and highly momentous match between Ashaie and the Maximusian National Team, LOM emerges victorious with 2 goals against Ashaie's 0. Luke Brooshire managed to pull off a goal in the 33rd minute and Mueller kicked one in minute 64.

"That was the Game! That was our team as they were meant to play!" said assistant coach, Neil Berkley, after the game concluded. "We just have to keep up this momentum into the next game. Just because our upcoming opponent's government collapsed a few days ago clearly doesn't mean that we can't our asses handed to us by them. I guess it only goes to show that men without a nation can operate just as effectively as men with a nation."

He was referencing the fact that the Nation of North Miklik actually Ceased to Exist a few days ago. With that said, since the team was operating on an autonomous budget, the team will still be playing with the same ferocity that they played with on game #3. The only difference is that the stakes are higher now.

If LOM can't pull off a win and Tiger Sharkistan does, which looks likely, LOM will be eliminated from the Baptism of Fire, crushing their hopes and aspirations once and for all. I cannot even fathom the amount of pressure that both team's players must be under. All of their hard work builds up to match #6, they have got to make it count. The fans of LOM, can do nothing but watch and wonder.

[Xanneria]

Xanneria gets revenge!
Steve Stevenson writer for football.xan

Ethane - It's been a good run for Xanneria since the loss to Monsaw. Now it's time to get our revenge on Monsaw for the 2-1 win they got versus us in an earlier game. Unlike the prior game weather wasn't an issue, still muggy but Monsaw was ready. Monsaw came out more than ready and played fiery, hoping to sweep the Maroons and gain ground in the standings. Monsaw played tough and was no doubt spurred on by the 5-0 drubbing Xanneria gave its previous game. They played Xanneria's physical style and matched it perfectly 1 for 1. Mark Hailey, a middie and our second best scorer on the team, actually suffered a yellow card early on and was substituted within only half an hour. His replacement was Jamar Lyman.

As with the previous games a lot of scoring was done on penalty kicks, the aforementioned Lyman was first to try but he he missed wide, one of the first real misses in the tournament for Xanneria. a battering of back and forth passing for the next 27 minutes saw the ball rarely get past mid-field. Then in the 64th minute a Monsaw player broke free and *whoomp* the ball went in past goalie Evan Jefferson, whose finally over his flu. A lil rusty for sure. right away the Maroons were put in a panic mode, with only 30 or so minutes to play the Maroons wanted to get two scores by Monsaw and its goalie. THe charge was lead by Chuckie Van Horn, a quiet tournament has seen the Capital FC striker relatively silent, but that was till this game Van Horn got a huge breakaway and *thud* a kick went right by the Monsaw goalie before he had time to react. Van Horn's first goal since 2026 Big Six tournament. But there was still the case of the pesky 1-1 score. A second goal was needed and it came from an unlikely source! A rough move by Monsaw on Richard Presintino put "Prez" in for a PK, with the game on the line the kicked it in to goal with only 3 minutes left of play, after wards the Maroons were able to play keep away and win 2-1!

Xanneria - 2
75' Van Horn
87' Presentino

Monsaw - 1
64' ???

[Libertas Omnium Maximus]

[excerpt from transcript of MNBC (Maximusian National Broadcasting Co.) Nightly News]

Breaking News

Joe Medici: Hello I'm Joe Medici here with another informative installment of The Nightly News with MNBC!

Tonight, for our top story we will take you to the controversy you all want to hear about, The drugging scandal!

As of a couple of minutes ago, we received word that the drinks consumed by Maximusian Bof players, Tom Levi and Caleb Darkas, were tested for added drugs or sedatives. According to our sources, the result of these tests will shock you. Joining us tonight is Chief Health Officer of the Maximusian National Team, Dr. Steven Ruggiero, all the way in his living quarters in Ethane. Hello Steven

Steven Ruggiero [voice]: Yeah. Thank you for having me Joe. I certainly with the circumstances of my call were less disappointing.

JM: Indeed. I wish the circumstances were happier too. Steve, you are a doctor, can you tell me what Px-72a is?

SR: It is a high strength sedative. If I can recall correctly. I haven't had to deal much with it because it is really just an ineffective sedative and painkiller. It is also known as Acedometrixol.

JM: Well, what would happen if you were to put 10 mL of it in a 32 oz jug of water or juice?

SR: It is non reactive so... probably nothing to the actual chemical structure of the liquid. However, were it ingested, it would cause a feeling of general dizziness along with making you feel sluggish

JM: It may come as a shock to some of our viewers, not to you Steve, but this very chemical, Acedometrixol, has been found in the player's drinks, all but verifying the narrative originally created by conspiracy theorists that Game #3 of the Baptism of Fire was somehow rigged. This is most concerning.

SR: Yes, it is very concerning. We have taken steps to insure the safety of our players in these upcoming matches. Additionally, we will be investigating these allegations of game rigging closely. However, I would like to take this time to affirm that we will make sure that nothing of this ilk ever happens again. It will never happen. We have background checked every staff member of ours, cleaned out our bottles thoroughly, and examined each player individually to insure their safety in tonight's match. It will be a good, drugging free match!

JM: Speaking of the game, I assume you don't have time to waste so we can't ask you for anymore of it. Thank you for everything. I hope we can chat again.

SR: My pleasure. I would love to speak on the show again. Good evening and Go LOM!

[Bysantia]

They did it again
by Klavus Titus

Here comes another day and yet another solid victory for Bysantia. 4-1 against Holy Marsh.

This time around Krammer decided to experiment with player setup a little bit and tried a 4-3-3 formation with Tedusius Cicero starting instead of Jordano Santos.
Playing more aggressively yielded results almost immediately as first goal came on 11'. Pinto passed back to Cicero and he didn't miss from 15m mark. 1-0.
On 28' and 35' Pinto and Popero came out on top of Holy Marsh's defense. 3-0.
Next goal happened in the second half on 67'. Basil Plius pierced defensive formation with a wild dash and scored. 4-0.
Opponents were able to get one back after a solid combination on 79' but that was about as much as they could hope for. 4-1.

Here is Group 2 results one match before the end of group stage:


Currently Bysantia is the only team to not lose a single match in the group stage. Flawless performance is what we expected of our team. But at that stage they should be thinking about playoffs. Last match is against Pratapgadh who would need at least a draw to remain in the tournament. They would also want to get some vengeance for 6-2 loss in previous match, so we expect some good football there. Stay tuned. Hail Imperator!

[Ofasval]

Ofasval National Football Team Angered

Just today, Ofasval won their recent national football match, 2-3, however, the Ofasvalian manager angrily exited the game wanting to speak with the FA, as, no official referee had shown up to the game, Only the sideline referee's attended the match, neither of which, had any field referee experience, both nations managers decided as a compromise, to have two regular league referees, one from each nation, to manage the game.

Despite this, not only is the manager of the Ofasvalian national team but also, the great leader of Ofasval is also very angry at the referee and would like to speak with him as soon as possible, as well as the FA.

Overall, it was a great game, and both teams enjoyed it thoroughly, Ofasval a little bit more maybe.

[Bysantia]

Severus Aurus - a middle aged man in a bright Bysantian shirt has just exited the airport. He seems to be just another fan of hugely successful Bysantian Football team coming to support his idols. But that is as far away from the truth as it can be. He is actually an operative of Bysantian secret service and he came to New Sarum for a mission.
The service itself is an organisation everyone know about but has no actual details. They tend to Imperial most delicate issues and have almost unlimited financial support. There are many divisions, some responsible for covert operations, sabotage or even assassinations, but Severus belongs to a much less poetic division of internal investigations. He is specializing on cases of state wide corruption and economic crimes and he came here on a lead from the case he has been working on for 5 long years.
He takes a taxi and goes straight to his hotel. The tournament may be well under way, but his work here has just begun...

[Walenstein]

Walensteiner Broadcasting Corporation Sport

19:34 February 12th, 2019
By: Emanuel Radnitzer, senior football correspondant

---

Walenstein victorius 3-2 over Zuiopien to secure knockout stage position

#WALvZUI

‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ Walenstein‌‌‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌3 - 2‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌Zuiopien ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌

‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌N. Ludwig 13' ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌??? 81'
‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌M. Merten 73' ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌??? 88'
‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌‌ ‌O. Severin 83'

‌‌FT

---

PARLIAMENT STADIUM, EASTFIELD LODGE --

Despite long delays in starting the match, Walenstein managed to nab a 3-2 victory over rivals Zuiopien to ensure a top position finish for Walenstein in group 9 of the Baptism of Fire tournament.

As the match starting time came around, we were expecting to see the players and the match officials come out to begin as usual, however they didn't. As T+15 minutes from the scheduled start of the match came around, fans in the stands were beginning to get rowdy. Match stewards and local authorities hanged around the touchline, with several stewards appearing to be on their mobile phones. An announcement was made on the public address system in the stadium temporarily postponing the match for an undisclosed reason, with no ETA for the start. With time dragging on and on, some fans started leaving the stands, believing the match was either canceled or forfeited by one side.

Around an hour past the scheduled start time, the officials and players began pouring out of their dressing rooms onto the pitch, and fans who were just getting up to leave rushed back to their seats.

We later learned that the referee failed to even appear to the match! Taking matters into his own hand, the left linesman decided to assume the role of emergency referee, with the fourth official taking his spot as linesman. A VAR official was rushed over from the VAR control room to assist as the fourth official for the match.

Finally, an hour and thirteen minutes behind schedule, the match commences with kickoff from the Walensteiner side.

Despite initially going on the defensive, Walenstein would soon bounce back. During a corner delivered by Matthias Merten in the 13th minute, Zuiopien's keeper would come out to punch the ball away, but mess up the clearence, letting the ball come spinning down towards his right. Nikolaus Ludwig would capitalize on the oppurtunity, heading the ball into the net and beating the keeper by a country mile, to open scoring 1-0 for Walenstein!

Not much else would happen until the dying minutes of the first half, with a striker from Zuiopien carrying the ball into Walenstein's box in the 43rd minute. As he's about to let a shot rip, an attemped slide tackle from CB Peter Georg knocks the striker over. The referee immediately blows his whistle and points to the spot, immediately invigourating the fans in the stands. The general consensus amongst commentators and the Zuiopien side is that Georg deserved a red card for his action, denying Zuiopien a valuable attempt on net. However, after a bit of deliberation, the referee only shows yellow to Georg, provoking boos from Zuiopien supporters.

As the players get into place for the spot kick, Zuiopien fans change from booing the officials to cheering on their striker in an attempt to equalize the match.

Taking the kick from his right foot, the shot would be entirely read by keeper Manuel Oswald, who dives the correct way and gets both his hands on the ball, stopping it dead in it's tracks, before picking it up for a goal kick straight after, to the cheers of Walensteiner fans.

Walenstein would keep it's 1-0 lead going into halftime. As the second half began, very little would occur again up to the 73rd minute.

Manager Amadeus Klausmann would use his 3 substitutions in the 65th, 69th, and 70th minutes, replacing Kred Kaspar with Linus Wendel, Thilo Winfried with Franz Leopold, and Viktor Diethelm with Hans Gerhardt.

In the 73rd minute, however, after a poor pass infield from a Zuiopien centre back, CAM Oliver Severin clears the ball ahead and there were no Zuiopien players back as striker Matthias Merten collected the ball, dribbled it into the box, and finished his shot beautifully to widen his side's lead to 2-0 in the late second half.

In the 81st minute, despite missing several chances prior, Zuiopien's striker halves the defecit. Franz Leopold tries to clear the ball but it deflects off of Arndt Henning and eventually lands at the feet of Zuiopien's striker, who hammers a shot into the top left corner with Manuel Oswald not having a chance to stop the shot at all. Zuiopien barely celebrates before heading back to the centre line in a bid to get another and equalize the match.

An instant response from Walenstein would ensue, however! In the 83rd minute, just a couple of minutes after the restart, Walensteiner CDM Gerhardt would take a throw-in midpitch. It only takes a few passes to get through to striker Matthias Merten, and Zuiopien's defenders had followed the ball, leaving him with lots of space in the box. He keeps his cool and curls the ball past Zuiopien's keeper into the bottom right corner of the net, to make the match 3-1!

The goal appeared to drive a stake through Zuiopien's heart, and it was apparent by the sudden change in demeanor from the fans of Zuiopien. With the restart, chances of 2 equalizing goals in the remaining minutes seemed slim to none.

Many seemed to write off their team a little too early though, as in the 88th minute, Zuiopien's CAM would score a brilliant header off of a corner kick! There's a slight hint of off-side from the midfielder, but he doesn't even have to jump to beat his defenders as he heads the ball past Oswald and into the back of net, making the match 3-2 and giving Zuiopien a consolation goal, with the team dogpiling onto the goal scorer.

That was the end of the match action though, with the substitute referee blowing full time after 3 added minutes of stoppage time, giving Walenstein 3 more points and securing the side victory in it's group and a spot in the round of 24, with potential for a guarenteed round of 16 spot depending on the outcome of tomorrow's match. Zuiopien remains tied with Najaf for second place on points, ahead only on away goals scored.

---

Manager Amadeus Klausmann appeared a lot more cheery at his post-match press conferance than usual. Asked why, he offered this response, smiling throughout it:

"The lads did it! Despite doubt from both at home and abroad, the lads have won or tied all their games without a loss thus far. Today's match was exhilirating, well played to our opponents Zuiopien, but our clinical performance set us apart today and I couldn't be happier with the lads. Moving on from the groups is a big deal for us, however I'd much rather a guarenteed group of 16 spot, simply to reward the lads and give them a rest from constant football this past couple of weeks and reward them for their hard work, which is possible pending the outcome of tomorrow's match against Najaf."

Asked about the no-show ref situation, his demeanor changed to a more serious one.

"Whilst I resepct it was an extenuating circumstance, in this case a famililal matter that prevented the referee from attending tonight's match, I feel an hour's delay is unacceptable. I'm not pointing fingers at anyone, but perhaps it would have a good idea to have a referee on stand-by for every match in the tournament for cases like this one in the future. Oh well, atleast we played in the light this time with the power being restored, unlike yesterday, haha!"

And, finally asked about Walenstein's last group match against Najaf tomorrow he had these thoughts:

"Given our past performance against the side, taking 3 points should hopefully not be an issue for the lads, which would put us in the running for a round of 16 spot. Regardless of the outcome, I want our lads to know I'm extremly proud of them, and that they've exceeded all possible expectations of mine. This has been an amazing start to this nation's international football club, and they all played a part in it. I look forward to coaching them through the knock-out stages!"

Join us tomorrow for full coverage of the BoF repeat Group 9 fixture Najaf v. Walenstein!

[Libertas Omnium Maximus]

Group #4 Stadium, Ethane
15 minutes before opening kick

The fans had filed in long ago. They were all siting restlessly. They knew the significance of this match. It would either make or break the tournament for the Maximusian National Team. Only once before had more pressure rested on Luke Brookshire's shoulders any more than it did now. For many of the MNT players, it was the most stress they had ever been under.

The whole world, practically, was watching. Virtually every sports station in LOM was covering the match. A commercial that was to air right after half-time was said to have costed nearly 1.5 million dollars on one station. The funniest part of the whole situation was, put simply, that this would be every subsequent BoF match. Who would want to miss a chance to see their beloved team potentially triumph over North Miklik.

The drugging scandal was at the back of everyone's mind but the very back. The notion was buried in the deepest, darkest, most incredibly secluded recesses of everyone's mind. Besides, every fan knew that who ever was behind the drugging would not be showing their putrid face in this match. The Maximusians had doubled their security presence since the last match against North Miklik. Additionally, they chemical tested all of their water and protein bars for added chemicals. There would be no scandal this time, only 22 players, two nets, and one ball.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!" suddenly boomed the Speakers from every corner of the stadium, "Welcome, to the Baptism of Fire's final Group Match. Group #4, Libertas Omnium Maximus, versus North Miklik. First, in the north entrance, you will see the Maximusian Team. Lets give it up for the Maximusian Team. The applause couldn't have been any louder.

"First out we have Luke Brookshire! Yin Lan! Andrew Posvak! Walter McIntosh! Let's give a hand for Alexander Bulisnki! Brian Mueller! Give a cheer for Tom Levi! Caleb Darkas! Robert Angly! Martin Marlen! Last, but not least, give it up for the anchor of any and every team, the goalkeeper, Johan Vanderbilt!!!!

The players ran onto the feild to explosive cheering. All nerves that they may have been individually feeling suddenly flew off. The team had come to do a job. Win a game. That was what they intended to do.

Johan Vanderbilt cracked his knuckles, "This is where the fun begins!" he said out loud. Indeed, this was where the fun was to begin!

[Eastfield Lodge]

Baptism of Fire 69
Hosted by Ethane & Eastfield Lodge

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CUTOFF for Groups 7-11 (Eastfield Lodge side).

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[Eastfield Lodge]

Baptism of Fire 69
Hosted by Ethane & Eastfield Lodge

---

MD6 Scores - Groups 7-11

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RP Prompt: Prompt will be posted alongside the draw for the Round of 24.
NOTE: You're not required to follow the RP Prompt, and if you have other ideas then go with them. This is just to help create RP ideas in case you don't have any and doesn't boost your RP Bonus score any more or less than a normal RP would.

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Group 7
Nottinhaps 0–0 Porabasta
Kevagaria 0–1 Libonesia

P Group 7              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Libonesia              6   3  1  2    7   7   0   10 Qualified/Group Winner
2 Nottinhaps             6   2  3  1    9   6  +3    9 Qualified
3 Porabasta              6   2  2  2    6   7  −1    8
4 Kevagaria              6   0  4  2    6   8  −2    4 Eliminated

Group 8
Uan aa Boa 0–1 Ancherion
Baranil 1–0 Tiiwark

P Group 8              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Baranil                6   2  4  0   10   8  +2   10 Qualified/Group Winner
2 Ancherion              6   2  3  1   14  13  +1    9 Qualified (4-1 H2H points vs Uan aa Boa)
3 Uan aa Boa             6   2  3  1   13   9  +4    9
4 Tiiwark                6   0  2  4    6  13  −7    2 Eliminated

Group 9
Najaf 2–4 Walenstein
Zuiopien 3–4 Alanikka

P Group 9              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Walenstein             6   4  2  0   18   9  +9   14 Qualified/Group winner
2 Alanikka               6   2  2  2   14  15  −1    8 Qualified
3 Zuiopien               6   2  0  4   10  14  −4    6
4 Najaf                  6   2  0  4    8  12  −4    6 Eliminated (0-6 H2H points vs Zuiopien)

Group 10
Eraman 0–1 Grod Island
Geektopia 6–2 Dritten Asopie

P Group 10             Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Grod Island            6   5  1  0   12   6  +6   16 Qualified/Group Winner
2 Eraman                 6   4  0  2    9   5  +4   12 Qualified
3 Dritten Asopie         6   1  1  4   10  19  −9    4 Eliminated
4 Geektopia              6   1  0  5   10  11  −1    3 Eliminated

Group 11
Alluersia 2–2 Balqia
ROBOSTANIA 1–0 Flaw

P Group 11             Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Alluersia              6   4  1  1   18   7 +11   13 Qualified/Group Winner
2 Balqia                 6   3  1  2   15  13  +2   10 Qualified
3 Flaw                   6   2  1  3    8  11  −3    7 
4 ROBOSTANIA             6   1  1  4   10  20 −10    4 Eliminated

The fate of the yet-non-eliminated 3rd place teams, along with the byes to the Round of 16 for the group winners, will be determined following Ethane's results.

[Ethane]

Baptism of Fire 69
Hosted by Ethane & Eastfield Lodge

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MD6 Scores - Groups 1-6

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RP Prompt: The EFA would like to reassure every team participating in the Baptism of Fire that the security and safety of the players is at the top of our priorities. We cannot comment on the claims of rigging through drugs made by Libertas Omnium Maximus until the investigation is completed, but rest assured that we will get the bottom of whatever is happened. In the meantime, the EFA will be beefing up security at all matches in the Baptism of Fire that are played in Ethane.[/i]

---

The Ro24 draw will be announced tomorrow.

---

Group 1
Libera populum 1–0 Gutulia
Ofasval 4–1 Derring-Do

Group 1                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Ofasval                 6    5   1   0    17    5  +12    16        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Gutulia                 6    3   0   3     7    6   +1     9        Qualified
3 Libera populum          6    2   2   2     6    7   −1     8
4 Derring-Do              6    0   1   5     3   15  −12     1        Eliminated

Group 2
Holy Marsh 0–3 Soviet Micronesia
Pratapgadh 1–2 Bysantia

Group 2                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Bysantia                6    6   0   0    19    6  +13    18        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Pratapgadh              6    2   1   3    11   13   −2     7        Qualified (H2H tiebreaker)
3 Soviet Micronesia       6    2   1   3     8    8    0     7
4 Holy Marsh              6    1   0   5     5   16  −11     3        Eliminated

Group 3
Vartugia 0–4 Antahbrantahstan
North Quadana 2–1 Apl0n

Group 3                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 North Quadana           6    5   0   1    14    6   +8    15        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Antahbrantahstan        6    4   1   1    12    5   +7    13        Qualified
3 Apl0n                   6    2   1   3     7    9   −2     7
4 Vartugia                6    0   0   6     5   18  −13     0        Eliminated

Group 4
Ashaie 0–0 TigerSharkistan
North Miklik 0–0 Libertas Omnium Maximus

Group 4                    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 North Miklik               6    4   1   1     8    3   +5    13        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Libertas Omnium Maximus    6    3   1   2    10    3   +7    10        Qualified (H2H Tiebreaker)
3 TigerSharkistan            6    3   1   2     7   10   −3    10
4 Ashaie                     6    0   1   5     3   12   −9     1        Eliminated

Group 5
Ekamijan 1–1 Bohr
Sajnur 0–1 Skarten

Group 5                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Bohr                    6    4   1   1    13    5   +8    13        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Skarten                 6    3   1   2     5    6   −1    10        Qualified
3 Sajnur                  6    2   0   4    11   11    0     6
4 Ekamijan                6    1   2   3     4   11   −7     5        Eliminated

Group 6
Pineapple Porcupines 2–3 Monsaw
Xanneria 3–2 Bresanie

Group 6                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Xanneria                6    4   1   1    16    9   +7    13        Qualified/Group Winner
2 Monsaw                  6    2   2   2    12   12    0     8        Qualified
3 Bresanie                6    1   3   2    11   12   −1     6
4 Pineapple Porcupines    6    0   4   2     4   10   −6     4        Eliminated

The fate of the yet-non-eliminated 3rd place teams, along with the byes to the Round of 16 for the group winners, will be determined on the 14th February.

[Eraman]

Introduction | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 |Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6

CHAPTER 7: ROYAL DAULAPURA

The prince mind is still not over the blackout even until a few minutes before the kick off between Eraman and Grod Island. His mind is set to a move away from Royal Daulapura, his current club. But to engineer a move away from a club owned by his own family will not be easy.

Royal Daulapura is the richest football club in Eraman. It is owned by the Petara Dynasty, the dynasty that rules the region of Daula and country of Eraman. It is also the only club to employ foreign players in the first season of Liga Eraman, Eraman’s top-flight domestic league. And to no surprise, it was the first club to win the league as well.

The second season didn’t really goes as plan for the club as all the other clubs in the league started to employ foreign players as well resulting them to settle for second place. A move away for their captain will be a kick in the teeth for the club but the prince is determined.

“Dino, have you thought about what I said the other day?” the prince asks his center back as they line up in the tunnel for kick-off.

“I would love to, my lord but I don’t think Damaisari can pay us as well as Royal Daulapura” the center back replies.

“This is not about money.”

“It is easy for you to say that, my lord but I need money to take care of my family back home.”

The prince runs out of time and words to convince the commanding center back as they walk to the pitch for kick off. This is the most important match for both teams as the winner will qualify straight to the Round of 16 while the losing team will have to play an extra match in the Round of 24.

The match itself is boring and uninspiring. Grod Island is happy with a draw while Eraman just did not turn up. The match remains goalless at the break. The second half is more promising as Grod Island starts to attack after looking at Eraman poor display. The islanders finally manage to break the deadlock through a goal from their wonderkid, Liam Fletcher which proves to be the winning goal. The match ends with Grod Island again getting the better out of Eraman.

All is not lost for Eraman yet as they still manage to finish second in the group with 12 points ahead of Third Asopia in third place with 4 points and Geektopia at fourth place with 3 points. Eraman will have to play in the Round of 24 with a yet to be announced opponent.

[Bohr]

Final Bohr Group Stage Game Uninspired, Team Wins Group Anyway

What did they have to play for? With Noel Drew and Finn Williams on the bench, Bohr eked out a 1-1 draw against bottom-feeders and/or Skarten-beaters Ekamijan (with Charles Niebur scoring his second goal of the tournament, two more than older brother Jake) to end an altogether incredibly successful group stage. Bohr finishes first place in Group 5, a result that was known before this game, and they seem almost guaranteed to have a bye to the round of 16. So why does it feel bad? Well, for one, in the absence of Williams, A.J. Mahogany seemed lifeless. The 23-year-old midfielder has somewhat disappointed this group stage, and there's an argument to be made that the eternally dependable Oscar Jones has, in fact, outperformed him. Secondly, the fullback play. This was less shocking, as anyone who knows Bohr soccer knows that fullbacks are lacking, but it's still a worrying trend; they've gotten beat by anyone with a lick of skill to them, and have forced Noel Drew and Sherrod Simpson to pick up a lot of slack when it comes to the defense. Finally, there's Drew himself. This tournament has become his retirement tour, and for the sake of Bohr soccer I would hope that it doesn't end in a stretcher. Rumors of injury have been floating around, but Drew himself said that he was "100 percent" and simply rested the game as a preventative measure. It's not totally encouraging, but it's something.

Bohr Goal Scorers:
Finn Williams: 5
Ezra Serrins: 3 (all in one game)
Ian Krone: 2
Charles Niebur: 2
Chris Can: 1

[Balqia]

Sport Report: Baptism of fire edition

The camera shows shows the Reynam Arena from above, other shots of the place are shown as a female voice starts to speak.
-The match against Alluersia occured in the last evening, our TV station broadcasted the match live, a great number of fans went to the country, and many of them are flowing to the embassy to renew their travel permissions in order to watch the future games. More information with our contact in Eastfield Lodge.
A familiar face appears in the screen, and you predict the exact words that will come from his mouth.
-Hello Balqia. My name is Markus Petriq.
He is wearing a shirt with a blue tie, his hair was cut recently and you can see a large row behind him.
-Today we are in the Balqian Embassy in Eastfield Lodge. We will be talking with a fan who accepted to talk to us.
The camera moves to his right, a fat middle aged man is standing there. He is wearing a striped shirt, he unbuttoned the top three buttons, revealing a bit of his hairy chest. He uses a sunglass, an obviously fake rolex and a brass chain that in theory simulates gold. His hair is almost nonexistent and the little that exist in the sides of his head are gray and white.
-Hello everyone- his voices is deeps -My name is Dimitri Margoronoviq. I am a civil engineer. It’s a pleasure to be here.
-Thanks Dimitri. Could you talk about the game a bit?
-The game? Well, it was horrible, I wasted a ton of money to see a fu%!#& draw, a draw. Holly S#!%. I don’t believe this team trained so much to DRAW.- some people look at him, a mother puts her hands in her daugther ears, the reporter opens his mouth, but the man continues to speak -I mean, we had everything to win. I remember the first half very well. We started defending at every cost, I mean, their team is almost undefeated, so I think the coach was trying to analyze their strategy or something, it was just boring, I ate three hot dogs and they didn’t lifted their a$@ from the middlefield. Then the Alluersian finally made a goal, holy moly, I thought that the rest of the match will be just them in the middle doing nothing.
The reporter starts to speak as the man takes breath.
-But didn’t you think that the draw was an improvement? We have been defeated by them before.
The man takes off his sunglasses, revealing his blue eyes.
-Boy, you need to understand, you win or you lose, there’s no draw. We lost the match because we didn’t win, plain simple.
-O-oky, and how was the second half?
-Oh, the second half was cool, it surprised me because the team f&%@# moved. In the begin the think was the same, doing nothing in the middlefield. But then then they started doing something. Faj entered in the game and started advancing through the left, we made two goals in five minutes. I payed for this, not for a respectful conversation and some people running in the middle. Faj and Rigo Janus made our two goals. BUT, the alluersian team advanced and made another goal, and then we couldn’t advance. And then the game ended, with a draw, a f*#$% draw. I hope the team at least do better in the Ro24.
-Thanks Dimitri, any other thing to say?
-You’re welcome. I just want to send a kiss to my wife Bertha and my two sons, Julius and Markus. That’s all.
-Thanks again.- The camera focus in Markus- We are going to participate in the Ro24, and with exclusive transmission from the Sports Channel. See you later.
The logo of the channel appears in the screen and a government add starts playing as you leaves the TV room.

[Libertas Omnium Maximus]

[excerpt from Aurem Times]
LOM National Team manages to weasel its way into the Baptism of Fire Round of 24

After an extremely defensive match played by both teams, the game ended in a draw. Both coaches had apparently told their players to "not led a ball past the half way line." That was where the ball stayed, right in the dead center of the field. This ended up being ideal for both teams because it allowed them to progress onto the next stage of the tournament.

"I explicitly told the boys to never let a ball past the half way mark. They pretty much didn't. It didn't really go how I wanted the match to go but it went. That is all that matters. " said Maximusian Head Coach Vincent Alfonsi.

The game ended with two content teams, although there were no points on the board, as they realized that they world both be progressing.

"This was literally the one circumstance I hadn't counted on" said Maximusian Goalie Johan Vanderbilt, "I had figured on at least someone scoring a point this day. It didn't happen in our match or the other match [Tiger Sharkistan vs. Ashaie]. There just weren't any points on the board. Then again, it was actual a very therapeutic match for me. I just got to sit back and watch 20 guys play their heart out, without any fear of them getting near me. I was certain of this until that one breakaway by what's-his-name. Then I had to snap back into attention and block the damn chip shot."

Vanderbilt is referring to a breakaway by a Miklikian player in the 77th minute. He actually narrowly saved the incredibly powerful chip shot. Other than that, along with a Maximusian push early on, the ball remained in the center 3rd of the field for the entire game. This made it the least exciting game in Vanderbilt's personal history. He only had to save one shot.

[Eastfield Lodge]

Baptism of Fire 69
Hosted by Ethane & Eastfield Lodge

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Knockout Round draw

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P                          Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Bysantia                   6   6  0  0   19   6 +13   18
1 Ofasval                    6   5  1  0   17   5 +12   16
1 Grod Island                6   5  1  0   12   6  +6   16
1 North Quadana              6   5  0  1   14   6  +8   15
1 Walenstein                 6   4  2  0   18   9  +9   14
1 Alluersia                  6   4  1  1   18   7 +11   13
1 Bohr                       6   4  1  1   13   5  +8   13
1 Xanneria                   6   4  1  1   16   9  +7   13
----------------------------------------------------------
1 North Miklik               6   4  1  1    8   3  +5   13 CTE - DSQ
1 Baranil                    6   2  4  0   10   8  +2   10
1 Libonesia                  6   3  1  2    7   7   0   10
2 Antahbrantahstan           6   4  1  1   12   5  +7   13
2 Eraman                     6   4  0  2    9   5  +4   12
2 Libertas Omnium Maximus    6   3  1  2   10   3  +7   10
2 Balqia                     6   3  1  2   15  13  +2   10
2 Skarten                    6   3  1  2    5   6  −1   10
2 Nottinhaps                 6   2  3  1    9   6  +3    9
2 Ancherion                  6   2  3  1   14  13  +1    9
2 Gutulia                    6   3  0  3    7   6  +1    9
2 Monsaw                     6   2  2  2   12  12   0    8
2 Alanikka                   6   2  2  2   14  15  −1    8
2 Pratapgadh                 6   2  1  3   11  13  −2    7
3 TigerSharkistan            6   3  1  2    7  10  −3   10
3 Uan aa Boa                 6   2  3  1   13   9  +4    9
3 Porabasta                  6   2  2  2    6   7  −1    8*
----------------------------------------------------------
3 Libera populum             6   2  2  2    6   7  −1    8*
3 Soviet Micronesia          6   2  1  3    8   8   0    7
3 Apl0n                      6   2  1  3    7   9  −2    7
3 Flaw                       6   2  1  3    8  11  −3    7
3 Sajnur                     6   2  0  4   11  11   0    6
3 Bresanie                   6   1  3  2   11  12  −1    6 CTE - DSQ
3 Zuiopien                   6   2  0  4   10  14  −4    6
3 Dritten Asopie             6   1  1  4   10  19  −9    4

*Porabasta ahead on group results after removing 4th place (1-1-2, 2-4, -2 GD vs 1-1-2, 3-6, -3GD).
Bye to Round of 16.
Qualified for Round of 24.
Eliminated.

Round of 24 draw:
Nottinhaps vs Ancherion @ North Bank Stadium, Bridgetown, Eastfield Lodge
Baranil vs Porabasta @ East Monksville Park, Monksville, Eastfield Lodge
Libertas Omnium Maximus vs Alanikka @ Reynarn Arena, Walston Brook, Eastfield Lodge
Eraman vs Pratapgadh @ Brook Stadium, Walston Brook, Eastfield Lodge

Balqia vs Monsaw @ Glent Pit, Ethane
Antahbrantahstan vs TigerSharkistan @ Tranthan Arena, Ethane
Libonesia vs Uan aa Boa @ Newton-Smith Arena, Ethane
Skarten vs Gutulia @ Brannigan Stadium, Ethane

Round of 16 draw:
16A: Bysantia vs. Nottinhaps or Ancherion
16B: Xanneria vs Baranil or Porabasta
16C: North Quadana vs. Libertas Omnium Maximus or Alanikka
16D: Walenstein vs Eraman or Pratapgadh

16E: Grod Island vs. Balqia or Monsaw
16F: Alluersia vs. Antahbrantahstan or TigerSharkistan
16G: Bohr vs Libonesia or Uan aa Boa
16H: Ofasval vs. Skarten or Gutulia

Quarter-Final draw:
QF1: winners of 16A vs 16B
QF2: winners of 16C vs 16D

QF3: winners of 16E vs 16F
QF4: winners of 16G vs 16H

Semi-Final draw:
SF1: winners of QF1 vs QF2
SF2: winners of QF3 vs QF4

Third Place Playoff @ Ethane
Losers of SF1 vs SF2

Grand Final @ Lodger City Memorial Stadium, New Lodger City, Eastfield Lodge
Winners of SF1 vs SF2

[Eraman]

Introduction | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 |Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 |Chapter 7

CHAPTER 8: KNOCKOUT STAGE

The 69th Baptism of Fire enters the Round of 24 knockout stage. Qualifying to the knockout stage is a big achievement for the national team. This is the first time Eraman managed to do so after failing at first try during The 2nd Malay World Cup in Khantari. The stake for every match is higher now as a defeat means the team is out of the competition.

The draw pits Eraman with runner-up of Group 2, Pratapgadh. The nation from India is lucky to finish second in the group on a head-to-head record after being level on point with Soviet Micronesia. If goal difference is the deciding factor, Pratapgadh would have been eliminated.

That is however not a reason to underestimate Pratapgadh as they were in the same group with the all-conquering Bysantia who won every matches so far. Glimpse of a quality team was shown in matches against Soviet Micronesia but defeat to Holy Marsh however exposed their weaknesses.

“Team, the matches between Bysantia and Pratapgadh are the key for us to advance to the next round.” Sembara Bunian, the head coach of Eraman instructs his entire squad to study their opponents past matches.

“Shouldn’t we look at their defeat at the hand of Holy Marsh?” the team captain, Badang Gangsa weighting in on the team discussion.

“Yes, we should and will get to it. But we need to put more emphasize on the matches against Bysantia. It will not only show us how Pratapgadh is going to play but we will also learn a thing or two from Bysantia who has been playing tremendously in the competition.”

The players nodded.

“The match will be played in Brook Stadium. The pitch is smaller than we are used to. Let’s take full advantage of it with a disciplined defensive play.” adds the head coach who has always favoured defensive style of play.

The players again quietly nodded.

“Now, let’s get to it boys.”

[Xanneria]

Xanneria wins group defeats Ethane Bresanie
Steve Stevenson for football.xan

Ethane - Xanneria wins the group! Xannerian wins the Group! another hard fought victory for the Maroons see Xanneria advance and get a bye! It was a full stadium in Ethane, most of whom were cheering on the Bresanians. As we know Bresanie has collapsed and most of the team been granted asylum, making them the Ethaine citizens. But in the end, Xanneria proved more dominant and won 3-2. A common theme of the games being that 3-2 score. The Hailey's again showed there stuff, with Mark getting a goal on a PK just 8 minutes in. But with the power of the Ethane crowd behind them Bresanie attempted several deep strikes but all were stopped by either awkward misses or Evan Jefferson's god hands. They did get an equalizer though on what is probably Xanneria's one weakness. Penalty Kicks. Their defender got one by Jefferson and suddenly it was 1-1. But again up stepped the forwards of the Maroons and Chuckie Van Horn kept his hot streak up with a smashing hi speed goal that had no chance of being saved. 2-1 soon became 2-2 though as another PK doomed Xanneria. But with a tie imminent, but thats where Glenn Hailey came through. A clutch goal from the star for the Capital FC striker gave a 3-2 lead and eventual win to Xanneria. Clutch performances meant clutch victories and for Xanneria a BoF group win! For the Playoffs Xanneria will get a bye, then will take on the winner of Baranil or Porabasta. Coach Alton had high praise for his team, although he admitted he thought he may have gotten "the easiest group", he expects a tough test with the next opponent. He has also said he forsees a match up against a tough Bysantian team, one which many Xannerian writers are saying is the toughest opponent Xanneria could face. Also looming is a friendly versus Saltstead, an up and coming world player.

Xanneria - 3

8' M Hailey
37' Van Horn
79' G Hailey

Bresanie - 2
21' ???
52' ???

[Eraman]

Introduction | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 |Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 |Chapter 7 | Chapter 8

CHAPTER 9: TUN SENGALANG PETARA

At team dinner the night before the game against Pratapgadh, all eyes are glued to the big screen in the hotel meeting room watching their opponent previous match against Bysantia. The head coach leading the preparation, analyses the match play-by-play. From formation to style of play to defensive and attacking positioning and even up until goal kicks and throw ins. He wants to make sure that nothing is missed.

But the deputy captain, Putra Daulapura Suara Petara is having none of it. He is onto something else. His hand is typing fast on the laptop in front of him. He is writing something.

“Oi, pay attention.” whispers Badang Gangsa from across the table to the prince.

The prince pays no attention to what is happening in front of him or even his team captain.

“Who are you writing to? Your dad? Asking for papa helps?” the captain throws another jibe at the prince.

“Actually, my uncle.” the prince finally replied.

“Your uncle? The bendahara?”

“Yes, I am writing a transfer request.”

Tun Sengalang Petara is not only the prince’s uncle or the bendahara of Eraman, he is also the president of Eraman Football Association as well as the owner of Royal Daulapura. He denounced his royal rights to run for election and won handsomely.

“That’s absurd.” the captain is shocked.

“What happened here in Eastfield Lodge and our conversation the other night really opened my eyes. I want to see Eraman away from the castle. I want to experience more blackout. I want to feel what the people feel.”

“You can’t be serious.”

“I am dead serious.”

Suddenly the conversation is interrupted by an angry voice from the head coach. “Listen here. What I am presenting here will decide whether we will stay in Eastfield Lodge for another day or return home to Eraman. So, pay attention.” said the coach. "OK now moving onto their strikers."

[Grod Island]

THE GRODIAN EXPRESS
After a successful group stage, Grod Island has directly qualified for the Round of 16. They are now going to play either with Balqia or Monsaw. The Grodian team was so delighted that they had a nice party in one of the finer restaurants of Eastfield Lodge.

"We are really happy. We are sure going to get a good rank in for the World Cup" said Pierre Lozano.

"We are surprised by our own success. We never though we will come till this stage of the tournament. Our fellow region team Nottinhaps has also qualified for the Round of 24. We wish them all the best. We also hope that we will win our next match" said captain Mateo Lopez.

The team has a huge fan base in the country and everyone is hoping that the team will fare well in the tournament. We wish the team, Best of Luck.

[Sajnur]

Sajnur's Baptism of Fire comes to an end

Sajnur have been eliminated from the Baptism of Fire following a 1-0 defeat to a solid Skarten side. Jessica Siafik came back for the do or die match, but was unable to penetrate the quagmire that was the Skarten defending. Skarten thus took second place after the lifeless fixture, while Sajnur exit the tournament having failed to take any points at all from Skarten or Bohr.

The only goal of the game was in the 21st minute, when Czcibor Zajac put away the ball following a free kick which was awarded when Zain Hasan fouled Zacharias Zrieszko, Otherwise, the match had next to no action. The first half did have captain Siafik create a handful of chances for Sajnur, but most were either well defended, or saved by Filip Ulmsqvist. Zajac and Aleksander Mrawszko also created chances for Skarten in the first half, with one leading to the goal, but otherwise Skarten had their typical struggles in creating goal scoring opportunities, and finished the group stage having scored just five goals in six matches. Siafik came off at half time for Sian Levici, but he had even more trouble sparking opportunities, and the second half proved to be a snoozefest, with the final score being 1-0 to Skarten.

The tournament has proved to be a disappoiting one for the Sajnur team and also for the Sajnuran fans as they were solidly the third best team in Group 5, and there is much to be improved on if they are to qualify for their first World Cup. The defence is of particular concern as the team kept only one clean sheet in six matches, and it shows that Sajnur's footballing setup still has a long way to go before the country will find success on the world stage.