CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24 – VELESTRIA [CLOSED]

[Velestria]

WELCOME TO 322 CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24!

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Group A
Filindostan 7–2 ROBOSTANIA
Bongo Johnson 1–4 Velestria

  Group A                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Filindostan                 3   2  1  0   11   3  +8    7          ADVANCE      
 2 Velestria                   3   2  1  0    7   3  +4    7          ADVANCE      
 3 ROBOSTANIA                  3   1  0  2    4   9  −5    3          ELIMINATED   
 4 Bongo Johnson               3   0  0  3    1   8  −7    0          ELIMINATED   

Group B
Damukuni 4–0 Western Carolina Union
Copper Cuprum 2–1 South Covello

  Group B                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Damukuni                    3   2  1  0    6   1  +5    7          ADVANCE      
 2 Copper Cuprum               3   2  0  1    4   3  +1    6          ADVANCE      
 3 South Covello               3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4          ADVANCE      
 4 Western Carolina Union      3   0  0  3    1   7  −6    0          ELIMINATED   

Group C
Newmanistan 4–1 Polkopia
Xanneria 3–2 Mattijana

  Group C                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Xanneria                    3   2  0  1    7   4  +3    6          ADVANCE      
 2 Newmanistan                 3   2  0  1    6   3  +3    6          ADVANCE      
 3 Mattijana                   3   2  0  1    6   4  +2    6          ADVANCE      
 4 Polkopia                    3   0  0  3    2  10  −8    0          ELIMINATED   

Group D
Apox 3–0 San José Guayabal
Dreamplanet 1–1 Fhulghamous Peninsula

  Group D                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Dreamplanet                 3   2  1  0    8   3  +5    7          ADVANCE      
 2 Fhulghamous Peninsula       3   2  1  0    7   2  +5    7          ADVANCE      
 3 Apox                        3   1  0  2    5   6  −1    3          ADVANCE      
 4 San José Guayabal           3   0  0  3    1  10  −9    0          ELIMINATED   

Group E
Racing 4–3 Ceynes Islands
The Golden Lotus 0–1 Kira-Hinode

  Group E                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Kira-Hinode                 3   3  0  0    5   2  +3    9          ADVANCE    
 2 Racing                      3   2  0  1    8   6  +2    6          ADVANCE      
 3 Ceynes Islands              3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3          ADVANCE*     
 4 The Golden Lotus            3   0  0  3    0   4  −4    0          ELIMINATED   

Group F
Natanians and Nosts 4–0 Ancherion
Cyborg Cocoabo Islands 0–1 Brenecia

  Group F                    Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Brenecia                    3   3  0  0    9   2  +7    9          ADVANCE      
 2 Natanians and Nosts         3   2  0  1    6   3  +3    6          ADVANCE      
 3 Cyborg Cocoabo Islands      3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3          ELIMINATED*  
 4 Ancherion                   3   0  0  3    4  13  −9    0          ELIMINATED   

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OCTOFINALS

OF1: Velestria v. Newmanistan @The Moor, Green Landing
OF2: Dreamplanet v. South Covello @Riverwood Stadium, Dragonpoolborough
OF3: Filindostan v. Mattijana @The Moor, Green Landing
OF4: Copper Cuprum v. Brenecia @Saints Park, Applegate City
OF5: Xanneria v. Apox @Stadium of Vonna, Reading-upon-Wychester
OF6: Kita-Hinode v. Fhulghamous Peninsula @Riverwood Stadium, Dragonpoolborough
OF7: Damukuni v. Ceynes Islands @Blue Sky Sports Complex, Agraria
OF8: Natanians and Nosts v. Racing @Hartford Park, Southampshire

---

OTHER PROCEDUALS

*Cyborg Cocoabo Islands eliminated ICly on coinflip and OOCly due to lower RP bonus

[Velestria]

_{ATTENTION: Most of my rps draw inspirations from rl-articles, as does this one, use this and this as inspirations.}

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SOUTHAMPSHIRE — “Kya kya” – ‘aight’ as the Ja’bari to the North like to say but is it really as the Velish nation sees itself torn apart with the start of festivities for the 24th Campionato Esportiva, something the government and the football association has been lobbying for many years for. Sure, the roar of the crowds are astounding, certainly at the home nation conquers ROBOSTANIA to open group play with a 2-1 victory, but after billions of dollars invested into a regional tournament which promised a changed life for the many who live in the nation; but to what extent? What has been done? Look to the cities and you see protests – ‘CE go home’ was a popular chant in Reading-upon-Wychester, even as supporters of the foreign nations graced their city with pleasantries. Hartford Park opened for the opening match of the 24th edition of the Campionato Esportiva with a reportedly N$700 million refurbishment fee, tickets had reportedly skyrocketed for the tournament and many watched the home team from community centers, the cheapest ticket to the first game supposedly going for N$960. Sure the opening ceremony was funky, and after all that a newly-built squad post events of ‘The Shift’ emerged, Jane Gullie and the team conquered initially and looked nice. The stadium however while it was covered with the colors of the national team, underneath the façade however is a scene of utter disbelief, the strewn wires throughout the campus, the dirty underbelly of the stadium shows archaic architecture, where has the N$700 million gone for the stadium? Velish fans chant “the beautiful game” and sing “The Voice of The Crown”, the national anthem of the nation, and this shows to the viewers, to the world that all is fine in Velestria. “Not a care in the world” says First Minister Winfrey Godsend of the Progressive Peoples’ Alliance, the ruling part in Velestria. However is that really true, is everybody really carefree in Velestria? We’ll take you through the eyes of the people as we’ll see what’s really happening in the nation in this story.

This year’s Velestria squad are expected to reach the octofinals, a one-step improvement from their maiden showing at the last Campionato Esportiva in Apox where Velestria’s team bowed out in the group stages despite fighting till the last day. This year’s team is expected to give Filindostan heavy trouble and make some noise in the knockouts. Also playing in Southampshire, they’re hoping to build on with home field advantage in their court, however researchers say Brenecia, Mattijana and Kita-Hinode are in for deep runs at this year’s Campionato Esportiva; Brenecia as usual listed as runaway favorites even with an aging squad and questions at the helm as to who leads the team. Mattijana always in the shadows arose to win themselves a CE and are looking to gain a second, likely wanting to use this tournament to make a statement and Kita-Hinode always an elusive regional heavyweight is returning with their eyes on the prize. The High Primo of the Eden Church of The Ja’barilands sent a message, wishing Velestria “the 7 Sons’ blessings” and called for football to be used as a tool of peace to unite the peoples of the Crown Federation and heal broken ties throughout the nation. But there is of course a smoke screen, in the football-crazed town of Old Birmingham, tear gas was an active player in pushing back demonstrators near Birmingham-Park which is expected to host a quarterfinals match which will decide who heads to the semifinals for the CE. One protestor we spoke to was adamant, “Velestria should not be hosting the Campionato Esportiva,” said one university student, Taryn Kelly, “our nation is in an economic crisis, social services have continually been lowered and the First Minister and government are more concerned about s silly tournament?” Military police and riot enforcement personnel also used tear gas on 400 demonstrators around Klyde Stadium in Fullham which is expected to host the penitulmate games of the Campioanato Esportiva. Protestors tried to stop the flow to the stadium however after an intense one hour standoff with police, the rod was once again open. A few hours later, mass bus depots were blocked from access from civilians laving tourists stuck for hours while an intense standoff once again took place, raising security concerns as to whether or not the Velish police can repel the “attacks on democracy”, as the First Minister referred to it as.


“Football brings us together”, that may have been the calling card to invite people to Velestria to the tournament but it seems for many to be the calling card to riot in Velestria as they call out the perceived systematic corruption associated with the tournament for Velestria. Since preparations began for hosting the tournament, massive corruption scandals has rocked Velestria to its core. Major city centers have been hit with massive protests and it certainly will affect the tournament and its enjoyment for fans.

[Dreamplanet]

TOP ON GOALS SCORED

With the match against the Fhulghamous Peninsula ending 1-1, Dreamplanet finished top of the croup by having 1 more goal.

Both teams came in with weakened squads as they were both through to the Round of 16 but yet Dreamplanet were able to get an important draw against the Fhulghamous Peninsula. Both fans were in high spirits after the subsequent qualifications and the squads were content with getting to play, the Fhulghamous Peninsula started off the stronger of the two teams, Dreamplanet once again tried the new tactic of wearing their opponents out, however it didn't quite work to start off as Salvatore Pelucci scored in the 27th minute after heading it past the defence and Filipe Vaz, Dreamplanet kept their defensive positions, hoping to press on in the second half but Os Tricores did have some chances with Fábio Henriques hitting the bar with a free kick and Antonio Luis' volley going just wide of the post, but the Fhulghamous Peninsula held firm at half time.

The second half was more evenly matched between the two teams, Brendan Meeks and Keenan O'Mitchell gave Dreamplanet some scares but fantastic saves by Filipe Vaz kept Dreamplanet in it, Dreamplanet kept piling on the pressure and it culminated in a goal in the 63rd minute when Antonio Luis was able to tap it in after a good through ball by Luis da Costa, both teams were reluctant and seemingly "agreed" on having the 1-1 draw despite good chances by Salvatore Pelucci and Antonio Luis almost adding to their tally, the game ended 1-1 with both teams pleased to advance directly, Dreamplanet were top of the group by having 1 more goal than the Fhulghamous Peninsula, in the first time they qualified from the group stage, Os Tricores topped the group.

Next awaits a match against South Covello, the 2nd ranked nation in Esportiva, Apox also advanced as part of the best ranked 3rd placed teams after beating San José Guayabal 3-0, Dreamplanetian optimism is on an all time high but the ones who prefer to stay realistic indicate that Dreamplanet will crumble against South Covello as they have become predictable, if Dreamplanet were to advance they could have a potential Quarter-Final matchup against Velestria and Filipe Vaz plays for Velish side AC 317 Roses, Vaz would be up against some of his teammates, making the prospect of a Dreamplanet - Velestria matchup enticing, however South Covello will do everything they can to crush Os Tricores' little pipe dream.

Fhulghamous Peninsula 1 - 1 Dreamplanet
(Salvatore Pelucci 27' - 63' Antonio Luis)
Reading-upon-Wychester, Velestria

Sunday June 2nd - MD1: Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 4th - MD2: Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Wednesday June 5th - MD3: Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Friday June 7th - OF2: Dreamplanet vs South Covello

Group D                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Dreamplanet                 3   2  1  0    8   3  +5    7    (Q)     
 2 Fhulghamous Peninsula       3   2  1  0    7   2  +5    7    (Q)    
 3 Apox                        3   1  0  2    5   6  −1    3    (Q)   
 4 San José Guayabal           3   0  0  3    1  10  −9    0    (E)

Qualified for Round of 16
Eliminated

[Mattijana]

Mattijana to Face Filindostan After Stumbling Through CE Group Stage

MFO SPORT

Mattijana will face close rivals Filindostan in their Campionato Esportiva Round of 16 game after a shock defeat to 22nd-ranked Xanneria meant they scraped through to the knockout stages by virtue of being one of the four best third-placed teams in the tournament.

To rub salt into Mattijanan wounds, they would suffer the humiliation of a player playing for a team called 'Inland Seafood FC' scoring the winner, as Devon'elle Leymore headed home at the back post following a cross from Jamar Lyman.

In fact, the game was never one in which an admittedly under-strength Mattijana took control. They trailed both before and after half time, but seemed to be getting back into the match as goals from Sofiane Bisrali and Kara Lorenzic cancelled out earlier strikes from Glenn Hailey and Richard Presentino. With the scores level after 70 minutes, most people in Dragonpoolborough's Riverwood Stadium would have favoured the 4th-ranked side to go on and win the game. 82 minutes in however, Leymore struck to earn Xanneria an excellent, but improbable victory which was all but sealed in injury time when Lorenzic saw a shot from the edge of the area clip the base of the post and go out for a goal kick.

The result means Mattijana lose out on a three-way tie for top spot in group C by one goal, but avoid being knocked out thanks to being the best third-placed team in the group stages, a rule that usual heavyweights Apox and South Covello were also forced to rely on in order to progress.

Mattijana will therefore face Filindostan in the round of 16 after the Pula Garuda finished top of their group courtesy of a 7-2 thrashing of the unnecessarily capitalised ROBOSTANIA.

The marmots have faced the tournament's 9th-ranked side twice before in previous CEs as both plotted a trajectory from rookie to regional heavy-hitter. They first met at the same stage of the competition's 20th edition, hosted in Mattijana, where Matej Ljubanik's team scraped past on penalties. Filindostan would avenge that defeat just one tournament later when they won a semi-final by 1 goal to nil. Since then however, it has been Mattijana who have found the most success at the Campionato Esportiva, with a second and first place compared to Filindostan's semi-final and surprise group stage exit last time out that saw the Pula Garuda's ranking drop to the latter reaches of the top 10.

Mattijana will be favourites for the tie, but the tough matchup comes a little earlier than expected and will be a good test of how Mattijana fare up against tough opposition given the relatively low seeds of the teams in their group stage matches.
In a way however, the matchup is one of the better ones possible. Apox's poor group stage performance means that they will face up to group C winners Xanneria whilst second-placed Newmanistan face hosts Velestria in what is sure to be an emotionally charged game in Green Landing.

Mixed Response Greets CE to Velestria

Velestria's government have for some time been trying to make their mark on the regional and international sporting scene and there was widespread enthusiasm around the country when they secured the hosting rights to the 24th edition of the Campionato Esportiva. Extortionate ticket prices, crumbling infrastructure and billions of dollars of public money later and many around Velestria have become disillusioned with the promised benefits of hosting.

The attitude of First Minister Winfrey Godsend, who seems oblivious to the disappointing use of the country's funds has angered even more people and the ruling Progressive Peoples’ Alliance are expected to find themselves under a lot of pressure as election time approaches.

Anti-government demonstrators have already been making their presence known and are set to be a large part of the backdrop the tournament is played out against in Velestria.

[Velestria]

WELCOME TO 322 CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24!

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Velestria 1–1 Newmanistan (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.)
[scorinated by Qusmo]

Dreamplanet 3–2 South Covello

Filindostan 2–4 Mattijana

Copper Cuprum 0–2 Brenecia

Xanneria 2–3 Apox

Kita-Hinode 5–4 Fhulghamous Peninsula

Damukuni 1–0 Ceynes Islands

Natanians and Nosts 5–3 Racing

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QUARTERFINALS

QF1: Velestria v. Dreamplanet @The Moor, Green Landing
QF2: Mattijana v. Brenecia @Hartford Park, Southampshire
QF3: Apox v. Kita-Hinode @Riverwood Stadium, Dragonpoolborough
QF4: Damukuni v. Natanians and Nosts @Birmingham-Park, Old Birmignham

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OTHER PROCEDUALS

*A 3rd-party scorinator has been scorinating my knockout stage games, in this case, Qusmo.

[Brenecia]

Brenecia 6 - 2 Ancherion
(4-4-2) 1 - Calhoun; 18 - Weaver, 5 - Heneghan, 6 - Varney, 3 - Quill; 15 - Cheney, 21 - Case (23 - Alweather 62'), 8 - Matheson, 11 - Keynes (16 - Fletcher 77'); 9 - Riordan (17 - Bremner 70'), 10 - Ciogach
Goals: Matheson 28', Ciogach 33' 80', Cheney 41', Keynes 58', Bremner 88'

Brenecia 2 - 0 Natanians and Nosts
(4-2-3-1) 1 - Calhoun; 2 - Broxham, 5 - Heneghan, 6 - Varney, 3 - Quill; 4 - Staunton, 21 - Case (15 - Ruskin 72'); 7 - Crowther (15 - Cheney 83'), 13 - Wheeler, 11 - Keynes; 10 - Ciogach
Goals: Ciogach 17', Wheeler 48'

Cyborg Cocoabo Islands 0 - 1 Brenecia
(4-2-3-1) 1 - Calhoun; 2 - Broxham (18 - Weaver 71'), 22 - Horgan, 6 - Varney, 19 - Prentice; 4 - Staunton (23 - Alweather 85'), 15 - Ruskin; 7 - Crowther, 13 - Wheeler (8 - Matheson 82'), 16 - Fletcher; 10 - Ciogach
Goal: Fletcher 63'

Copper Cuprum 0 - 2 Brenecia
(4-2-3-1) 1 - Calhoun; 2 - Broxham, 5 - Heneghan, 6 - Varney, 3 - Quill; 4 - Staunton, 21 - Case; 7 - Crowther, 13 - Wheeler (8 - Matheson 71'), 11 - Keynes (16 - Fletcher 63'); 10 - Ciogach
Goals: Ciogach 71', Case 80'

Kara Ciogach knew she was special. It was nothing to be ashamed of; it was something to flaunt. The world had enough humble beige mediocrities, drowning in their own modesty.
She'd chafe to be called arrogant, though. She just knew she was good, that was all. Damn good, through her own hard work. Anyone who doubted that could call her when they'd moved from a women's league to the all-in scrum of Brenecian football as a teenager. It was the best move for her career, and that was what mattered.
The only surprise was she hadn't left Southern Star, and the dreary confines of semi-urban southeast Brenecia. It took her a little longer in life to appreciate that particular blessing - she was sequestred away from the temptations and shining red lights of city life, kept her focus on the pitch. And it was rewarded, eventually. The A-League wasn't a forgiving place for young strikers, but talent backed by workrate would always find a way to rise to the top. Those virtues took her to the first-team, then to Schottia's national team, then after a frank and earnest talk from Jim Reid and a hasty swearing-in service, to the Brenecian national team, and from qualifiers to a World Cup and to this Campionato, to the scoresheet - three times so far, and with a great chance for a fourth.
Falcon Case was their regular penalty-taker, but Ciogach had a feeling. She'd earned this one; after seventy minutes of fruitlessly trying to punch a wall that stubbornly refused to cave in, a slick pass from the fresh substitute Fletcher with the outside of the right boot played Ciogach into the box. Chidagi came to cover. With his shoulder. Could Ciogach have stood her ground? Unlikely. But she didn't have to be asked twice to take a tumble for the team, and the referee blew on the spot. Ciogach won it, and Ciogach would take it.
Quietly, she fancied her chances. Temoyo was 37, and short, and mired in the local league. One of the wise old heads, on a fairly ancient team.
The whistle blew. Ciogach glanced around at the pensive white shirts around; SPL veterans Inanuk and Tofodo steady and alert, the guilty Chidagi looking guilty, young, promising Tukuku braced to pounce on any rebound, their prince still getting in the referee's ear long after it mattered.
Enough. She stepped back, ran forward, swung the boot and sent a penalty far too close to the centre, at a comfortable height, with Temoyo guessing the right way, and maybe with 20 minutes to go of a knockout tie was not the time to strike the first penalty of her senior career, actually, and--
-- the ancient goalkeeper, relief writ across his face, batted the ball down into the turf with both hands.
No time to dwell. Ciogach sprinted forward, as belatedly did those around her, Temoyo trying to will creaking limbs into closing the rest of the distance. Instinctively, Ciogach let herself slide in, right leg collapsing under her, left leg outstretched, absolutely ready to follow-through into Temoyo's head if this didn't make strong contact, and the goalkeeper's fingertips were just starting to brush against the ball--
-- before Ciogach put her boot through it, slamming it into the net and jerking her boot away just about in time to not murder the goalkeeper.
Okay. Hardly the most beautiful of goals, and she was probably done taking penalties for the forseeable future. But what mattered was the win - and her fourth goal of the tournament.

[Dreamplanet]

COMEBACK, LAST GASP WINNER, THE DREAM LIVES ON

Os Tricores come back from 2-0 down to win 3-2 and will meet hosts Velestria in the quarter-final.

Dreamplanet had a match to remember as they had to climb from 2-0 down to book their place in the Quarter-Finals against a hard-working and much-fancied South Covello, continuing the fragile Dreamplanetian dream of a run to remember.

The Dreamplanetian panic started early as Jorge Cardoso gave away a penalty to South Covello after tripping up Coconut Charles in the box in the 22nd minute, luckily for Os Tricores, Filipe Vaz saved it and tipped it wide for the corner, unfortunately for Os Tricores, Coconut Charles headed it in right after the corner, meaning that his save counted for nothing. Henry Ocho would go on to rub salt into the wounds as he smacked one from long range into the top corner, hitting the bar as it went in and leaving Filipe Vaz dumbfounded, Dreamplanet shifted into attack, knowing that every second would be precious and they got rewarded as Luis Silva was able to get on the end of a good cross, heading it in right before half time, causing a physiological shift between the two sides.

The second half was mostly Dreamplanet pushing on as South Covello tried to defend their slender lead, the equaliser came from Luis Silva from the free kick as Paulo Figueiredo was clear through but got clattered by Cal Yachtwood, receiving a direct red card, South Covello were conflicted on whether or not they should try to get the goal or just wait for extra time but Dreamplanet were not about to let off the gas, South Covello almost took the lead thanks to a through ball to Coconut Charles but his chip over Filipe Vaz hit the bar and went out for a goalkick, as extra time approached Dreamplanet kept pushing on, Dreamplanet shifted to a 4-4-2 earlier in the half and got a corner in added time after Antonio Luis saw his volley saved, Miguel Benedito crossed it and Aaron Hungar heroically leapt up and gave Dreamplanet the bullet header that they wanted with only a few seconds left of added time, sending fans and commentators into raptures in what will surely be one of the most memorable Dreamplanetian football moments. The celebrations started right after the goal was scored as the whistle blew for full time to the delight of the Dreamplanetian players, as they ran onto the pitch, and fans but South Covello had reasons to complain as they thought that the referee was biased towards Dreamplanet after some controversial cards such as the free kick and red card and should've let them play another minute after the headed goal.

Os Tricores will face the hosts Velestria in the quarter-final at Green Landing, Dreamplanet has an advantage in Filipe Vaz, the aforementioned AC 317 Roses goalkeeper, however Velestria will be confident of continuing their own dream of lifting the Campionato Esportiva in their home ground, this match is sure to be a fascinating tie with both sets of supporters trying to cheer on their team as much as they can, however doubts about Dreamplanet's "tire them out and smack them" tactic are strating to arise as Dreamplanet started playing much better after going into an attacking tactic.

Dreamplanet 3 - 2 South Covello
(Luis Silva 43', 67', Aaron Hungar 90+3' - 23' Coconut Charles, 31' Henry Ocho)
Dragonpoolborough, Velestria

Sunday June 2nd - MD1: Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 4th - MD2: Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Wednesday June 5th - MD3: Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Friday June 7th - OF2: Dreamplanet 3-2 South Covello
Sunday June 9th - QF1: Velestria vs Dreamplanet

ROUND OF 16
Velestria 1–1 Newmanistan (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.)
Dreamplanet 3–2 South Covello
Filindostan 2–4 Mattijana
Copper Cuprum 0–2 Brenecia
Xanneria 2–3 Apox
Kita-Hinode 5–4 Fhulghamous Peninsula
Damukuni 1–0 Ceynes Islands
Natanians and Nosts 5–3 Racing

[Velestria]

_{ATTENTION: Most of my rps draw inspirations from rl-articles, as does this one, use this as inspiration.}

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SOUTHAMPSHIRE — A week ago Patrick McCollum was ahead of her in early polling for the 369 elections and around Esportiva rumblings of change was heating up throughout the region concerning the Crown Federation and its most notable nation, Velestria. But now, Winfrey Godsend has come back on top on the polls alongside her part the Progressive Peoples’ Party who are looking to extend their already long twelve year reign another four years in length.

Godsend’s People’ Party (P) has managed to stay in power for twelve years — four of these years happening under vastly popular former statminister, Statminister Clark Markson, Markson was ineligible for a 3rd consecutive term in office and chose Godsend as his groomed successor. However all this time in power has yielded negatively in recent years for the Peoples’ Progressive Party, twelve years have shown little to no net change for the country and in recent years it was a nation rocked by poverty, a nation in a freefall recession and protests over the rising cost of living and Velestria’s decision to host the Campionato Esportiva.

But for some reason Godsend remains a polarizing political figure and this seems to help her pick up votes, in latest opinion polling 52.6% of the population would “readily vote for the Progressive Peoples’ Party” over the alternative. Is it because of the familiarity the nation has with Godsend or the PPP? Twelve years of progress have perhaps become ingrained in the nation’s head, if Godsend finds herself at the inauguration parade once again next year it’ll be because the Lotish people of the Crown Federation trust in her party’s track record and believe it can deliver them once again. Sure the unstable North of The Ja’barilands will side with the far-right Economic Freedom Fighters and their intense anti-white rhetoric but Godsend could unite the center-left and propel herself to victory once again. There’s a lot of dissent but the twelve years of power for the PPP have produced some striking results.

Through an economic downturn the individual Lotish person has actually seen a rise in living standards and the GDP of each Lotish individually grew by 2.26% during the years of 313-322/369, this indicates that the PPP has followed through on their promises of economically uplifting the nation. With additional cash, the Lotish government directed from the Crown Federation’s capital in Southampshire has actually added money back to the Crown Federation by directing money into social programs; the recent recession has definitely dampened the Lotish government’s abilities and social pressures are being felt, at the heart of these recent protests.

Since rising to office twelve years, under Markson and continued under Godsend’s administration unemployment has gone down rapidly, falling to 7.6% at the end of 322/369, there have been some major changes to the economic landscape. Poverty and extreme poverty, the PPP says “continues to fall under the policies instituted by Statminister Godsend,” of course go to any of the slums in Birnin Calix and you’ll be hard-pressed to prove that.

These social policies have angered the traditional source of power for the opposition, the right-wing ‘Popular Front’, changes in status for what is considered to be a proper “working citizen” has led to domestic servants to receive classifications a as working citizen, they are now eligible to receive at minimum, social pensions as guaranteed by their employer, minimum work hours and full benefits. This has gone long ways to damage the already fraught bridge between the elite of the Crown Federation and the ruling party, while the PPP has risen to be the main scapegoat of what the elite allege is their loss of income.

The cruel fact remains – the Crown Federation’s government has come to be too dependent on taking out loans and its coming back to hurt the Lotish people hard and their reaction is something most of the government was largely not expecting. Raising interest rates to rapid levels to pay back these high-interest loans have not been the solution and in addition to taking on more loans for hosting the ill-advised Campionato Esportiva; Godsend and the PPP have angered the populace.

When she was sixteen, she earned money as a magician, and now the C.F.’s biggest player and Statminister needs to find a rabbit to pull out of her hat for this audience — being the citizens of the Crown Federation. But this trick may be too big for her…

[Apox]

Previous Parts
Part 1, WC82, Part 2, WC82, Part 3, RUWC 27, Part 4, CE 24

Things had been a little topsy-turvy, politically in Apox since the results of the second general election to install the Green's as the largest party in the countries history - a few months ago now. Matthias Sindelar had followed the advice of the outgoing Leader, Lorcan Oberhausen, and steered clear of the Free Party in the coalition talks, striking up a relatively good working relationship with Daramie Jenkins and the ANP.

They'd managed instigate the process of implementing their progressive agenda - more provision of mental health care, especially in the city regions which seemed to be suffering from something of a youth mental health crisis of late, further reforms to the education system in the country in attempts to bring it further in line with the best systems in the world and of course, further improvements to the energy infrastructure of the national, including a new enormous solar farm in the empty arid Plains region and big investment in battery storage.

However, things had not been all plain sailing. They'd had big criticisms from New Dawn and the more militant factions of the Free Party over freezing increases in military spending and reactions to the increasingly desperate situation developing in former colony Mareibat. Artur Winklebottom had fought a brutal leadership campaign to take over as Leader of the Free Party and had pivoted the entire party further to the right - demanding further military reforms, a return to "traditional" values and emphasis on slashing taxes for all (ignoring the fact that the ruling coalition had actually cut income tax for the lowest earners from 10% to 8% up to a threshold of §20,000). While they were still drawing on dwindling support, the support these factions did have were vocal and sytmied the change he was trying to bring about. The Mareibat situation was deeply troubling though, and two further terrorist attacks had been prevented by the good work of the MIS (Ministry of Intelligence and Security), but there was no getting around that this was a situation largely caused by the urgency of the departure of Apoxian forces from Mareibat when they achieved independence half a century ago. A departure with no planning for how to ensure Mareibat ran itself as a successful country afterwards. He was in a meeting with a number of senior figures from MIS and government when some distressing news came in;

"We are just now receiving reports from agents on the ground that the power plant at Teol has been hit by the Mareibat Freedom Militia, causing an almost complete blackout on the island. There's said to be open fighting in the streets and basically full rebellion against the administration," briefed Chief Officer Johnson, a grizzled old combatant of numerous skirmishes with the Commune, the previous great threat to Apox, to assembled members in the room. There was a brief pause,
"So let me get this straight, now Teol has basically fallen to a militia joining Bellight as effectively independent states?" asked Matthias. There was confirmation from Johnson before he continued on,
"We've wired communications to Imperator Jhon Cossack in Halholzer but we've only got scrambled reports through from them. From what I can tell there is barely organised panic in the capital and across the water on Small Island. Any offenses by the coast guard to regain order on Bellight have failed and the entire island has basically been abadoned to the Bellight People's Army who we understand to be in talks with the Mareibat Freedom Milita. Teol will probably go the same way. As for the other small islands, there is a lot of unrest and multiple cases of rioting."
"What about the security forces Mareibat have?" asked Shadia Holzhauser, Leader Deputatis of Apox and Matthias' long serving right hand woman. Johnson snorted,
"What forces? They've been run down since the days of the previous Imperator and Cossack has had too much on his plate to get them fixed since. No we are witnessing the complete collapse of the archipelago and the existing Mareibat government." There was another long pause, faces gravely glancing at each other around the room. Shadia was the first to speak again;

"What can be done to help regain control? Further instability threatens our fragile peace we have here." General Harriet Thornely, similarly grizzled to Chief Officer Johnson but with a booming voice and severe patience issues, current head of the Apoxian Army spoke up.
"It is clear that Mareibat cannot maintain peace within their own borders. This leaves only one option. Apoxian boots on the ground, clear out this mess and do a full system reset." Daramie Jenkins, Leader of the ANP and one of the leading anti-war voices in the room piped up immediately.
"Both myself and my party cannot countenance such an imperialist act of aggression. There must be other courses of action we can take to avoid such hostilities, especially as we've had no indication from the Mareibatian leadership that they actually want any intervention from us at all."
"Should have thought twice about attacking us then!" shouted Thornely, as the meeting threatened to overflow into chaos. Someone shouted that;
"We haven't heard anything clear from the leadership!" while voices raising either opinion began shouting back and forth across the room. Sindelar pulled it back around,
"We cannot and won't attack our allies. However we cannot stand by. Johnson," he said, facing the old war chief, "I need you to get hold of Cossack directly. We need to find out what he is thinking, what his plans are. If they cannot sort this out without direct Apoxian intervention then it becomes increasingly difficult to prevent spillover from this in-fighting from affecting Apoxian business, industry and ultimately our freedom. We can risk the destabilisation this brings."

[Velestria]

WELCOME TO 322 CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24!

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Velestria 1–2 Dreamplanet
[scorinated by Qusmo]

Mattijana 3–2 Brenecia

Apox 2–2 Kita-Hinode (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)

Damukuni 1–0 Natanians and Nosts

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SEMIFINALS

SF1: Dreamplanet v. Mattijana @Klyde Stadium, Fullham
SF2: Kita-Hinode v. Damukuni @Klyde Stadiu, Fullham

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OTHER PROCEDUALS

*A 3rd-party scorinator has been scorinating my knockout stage games, in this case, Qusmo.

[Dreamplanet]

GOOD HOSTS, GOOD GAME

The hosts crashed out to Os Tricores as they lost 2-1, making the Dreamplanetians believe in a final appearance.

This was a highly anticipated match, the hosts Velestria against the surprise package Dreamplanet, who didn't even expect to make it out of the group and the hosts had their dreams of lifting the trophy in their home ground. A Jorge Cardozo header was enough to put Os Tricores in their first ever semi-final which will be a tough match against 4th ranked Mattijana.

Dreamplanet and Velestria had very good attacks at the start of the half as both teams were very nervous of reaching the semi-finals but yet the deadlock wouldn't be broken after saves and poor finishing from both sides meant that at half time the match would be 0-0, by the tactical side of things this was going to become a slow game as the anxiety in the first half got the better of the both sides.

The second half was a different story, Luis Silva added to his tally, heading in a well crossed corner, putting the pressure on the home team, however Dreamplanet's guard went down and Augusta Clark was able to equalise after a counter attack, Aaron Hungar's volley was saved and Agusta Clark was able to get on the end of a long pass by Chris Banker as he tried to clear it, after that it was just a tap-in for the taking, pulling the match level. Both teams were evenly matched, it was the hosts vs the overachievers, both deserving of the semi-final and Velestria almost got the ticket to the final when Paul Harris hit the bar from long range but the moment was seized by Jorge Cardozo, heading in from a corner much like Aaron Hungar had done against South Covello but way much more time to play. Dreamplanet held on to full defensive mode, knowing that even if Velestria equalised all they could do would force it into extra time, but that came at a cost as Jorge Cardozo got his second yellow card which lead to his red card after fouling Vance Kirkman near the box, Furusawa Utamara's free kick was saved by Filipe Vaz, one of the stars of the show as he played for AC 317 Roses. Velestria could not break through even after 4 minutes of added time and the host's dreams were crushed by Os Tricores, who didn't even expect to make it anywhere this far, there was a sense of camaraderie as both fans were happy to be here but one team had to fall, the host's disappointment was palpable but atleast it came in fair play and good grace, ending the gripping game on a positive note.

Dreamplanet's belief is at an all time high, they will have yet another tough match against 4th ranked Mattijana, nobody wants to fall so close to the final but specially not Dreamplanet as they are trying to make it to their first final against the reigning champions, even if Dreamplanet were to go out, the nation will back them to the 3rd place play-off, but can we please make this dream last a bit longer?

Velestria 1 - 2 Dreamplanet
(Augusta Clark 67' - 51' Luis Silva, 79' Jorge Cardozo)
Green Landing, Velestria

Sunday June 2nd - MD1: Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 4th - MD2: Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Wednesday June 5th - MD3: Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Friday June 7th - OF2: Dreamplanet 3-2 South Covello
Sunday June 9th - QF1: Velestria 1-2 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 11th - SF1: Dreamplanet vs Mattijana

QUARTER-FINALS
Velestria 1–2 Dreamplanet
Mattijana 3–2 Brenecia
Apox 2–2 Kita-Hinode (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Damukuni 1–0 Natanians and Nosts

[Mattijana]

Mattijana Beat Brenecia to Make 5th Consecutive Semi

MFO SPORT

Mattijana reached their 5th consecutive Campionato Esportiva semi-final with a thrilling 3-2 win against Brenecia, setting up a tie with Dreamplanet in the last 4. Second-half goals from Kara Lorenzič and Marko Hojbjerg helped overturn a 2-1 halftime deficit against their bitter rivals from the last two tournaments.

The marmots have gone on to two third places, one second and a historic championship victory in the last four tournaments, but were dealt a tough hand if they were to do the same this time after they suffered a surprise defeat to Xanneria in their final group stage match. A tricky game against 9th seeds Filindostan followed, which they won 4-2, albeit with a match against the regional number 1s promised.

It was Mattijana who triumphed 2-1 in the last meeting between the sides and they struck first in the tie. Sophia Velezia's run down the left wing resulted in a dangerous cross towards the back post that Brenecian central defender Garwyn Varney could only poke into the path of Mattias Hoffman, the Burges midfielder sidefooting home into the bottom corner.

Brenecia soon hit back though. Kara Ciogach was the first to breach the Mattijanan defence, collecting an incisive through ball and slotting past Lucija Handanovic. It was the Patriots too who would take the lead before half time with a much messier effort. A low ball from Cathal Keynes caused pinball inside the Mattijanan penalty area and a clothed clearance eventually fell for Ciogach to lash home her second goal.

Despite the goals, the game had been one of fairly few chances before the break, but as the Marmots made a bright start to the second half, things began to open up. Kara Lorenzič came close to an equaliser five minutes after the restart as she curled wide from the edge of the box. Katarina Jakupovic also missed a good opportunity when she dragged a Velezia cut-back straight at the Brenecian goalkeeper Rostyn Calhoun.

It was Lorenzič though who eventually made the breakthrough as she collected a teasing cross from Jessika Struna and sent a half-volley inside the near-post for the equaliser. Brenecia and Ciogach threatened a third goal when the striker hit the bar from the edge of the box, but Hojbjerg gave the Marmots the lead with a superb strike into the top corner from 20 yards after good interplay between him and his midfield partner Jakupovic.

Dusan Vukoja's side saw out the remaining 15 minutes to set up a semi-final encounter with 21st-ranked Dreamplanet, who beat hosts Velestria 2-1 in a tough-fought encounter in Green Landing. Whilst the fixture is on paper Mattijana's easiest of the knockout stage, they will be aware of their opponent's confidence after their quarter-final win was preceded by a 3-2 round of 16 triumph against South Covello.

Despite that, Dreamplanet are without the suspended Jorge Cardozo after he picked up two bookings against Velestria and Os Tricores were reliant on some shockingly bad finishing from the hosts during the latter stages of the game.

In the other semi-final, also to be played in Fullham, Damukuni will play Kita-Hinode after the third-ranked Hinodeans beat Apox in a tightly-contested penalty shootout. Damukuni had earlier beaten Natanians and Nosts 1-0.

[Velestria]

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Dreamplanet 2–2 Mattijana (2–2 AET) (4–1 pen.)

Kita-Hinode 1–1 Damukuni (2–1 AET)

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CONSOLATION PRIZE

3PPO: Mattijana v. Damukuni @Klyde Stadium, Fullham

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FINALS

Finals: Dreamplanet v. Kita-Hinode @Klyde Stadium, Fullham

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OTHER PROCEDUALS

*The 3PPO will take place tomorrow while the CE24 finals will be the day after

[Dreamplanet]

VAZ'S GOLDEN GLOVES - DREAMPLANET IN THE FINAL

Two saves by Filipe Vaz in the penalty shootout was enough to do the reigning champions in as Dreamplanet booked their first ever final appearance of all time.

Heading into the tournament, Dreamplanet expected to play 3 games and go home and maybe even 4 if they were lucky, however after the match Dreamplanet made history by qualifying to their first ever final which will be played in the same stadium. Filipe Vaz was the hero for Dreamplanet as his penalty expertise kept the reigning champions at bay while Miguel Benedito had a cocky chip to put Dreamplanet in the final, where they will meet Kita-Hinode.

The nerves were palpable from both sides, they both wanted the final desperately after working so hard to get here, making the match look like a final in itself. Dreamplanet had opened the scoring in the 37th minute with a Luis Silva free kick after Rikard Illicić blocked a shot with his hand, recieving a yellow, Lucija Handanovic got a hand to it but it hit the post and went in giving the lead to the underdogs who had turned into contenders, Mattijana had thrown caution to the wind and started to dominate possession and attacks, Filipe Vaz had tipped a good shot by Mattias Hoffman away for the corner, Jessika Struna got her head on it but it was just over the bar, meaning that Dreamplanet lead 1-0 at the half.

In the second half, Dreamplanet had a bucket of ice dropped on their heads as Francisco Jorge slipped while on the ball, giving Jessika Struna possession and as she ran past the embarassed Francisco Jorge, she crossed it in for Kara Lorenzič to tap in past a helpless defence and goalkeeper. Os Tricores became increasingly nervous as they knew that this was the reigning champions they were up against, an elite attack which seemed like it was a matter of time until they added to the lead, but for everything that was on Mattijana's side, Dreamplanet had Luis Silva who got on the end of a deflected shot, being able to tap it in while Lucija Handanovic just watched much like Filipe Vaz did earlier. With little time to play, Dreamplanet were leading 2-1 and seemed likely to hold on to it, Dreamplanetian fans were already celebrating and Dreamplanetian commentators were already ticking down the seconds before jubilation, but anticipation and inattention got the best of Os Tricores, Mattijanan jubilation and Dreamplanetian silence as Kara Lorenzič got her brace with a few seconds left of play, taking the match to extra time. In extra time, Dreamplanet decided to sit back and grind a penalty shootout which would be a bold bet as Dreamplanet had never been involved in a penalty shootout, Dreamplanet had only one chance in the entire 30 minutes of extra time which was a longshot by subsitute Antonio Luis which went over the bar, Mattijana could've sealed their spot in the final with a Kara Lorenzič but it wasn't to be as she scooped an open goal over the bar after Filipe Vaz parried it in her direction. Penalties it is.

Dreamplanet won the coin toss which meant that Luis Silva got to take the first kick, he blasted it past the goalkeeper which went the other way, Dreamplanet were off to a great start, Kara Lorenzič made up for that extra time miss by burying her penalty past Filipe Luis who almost got to it, Aaron Hungar was the next one to score for Dreamplanet, putting his penalty straight through the middle as Lucija Handanovic dove to her left. The Filipe Vaz show opened in the second kick as he saved Katarina Jakupovic's shot as it was going to the left, putting the pressure on Mattijana to save the next shot to have a chance at tying the score but Antonio Luis would cement Dreamplanet's lead by slamming it bottom left despite the goalkeeper getting two hands to it. Filipe Vaz would put one foot on the final for Dreamplanet after saving Katarina Jakupovic's shot that was going top right, finally, the final spot was won by Miguel Benedito's cheeky chip over Lucija Handanovic, staying true to his cheeky self, getting everyone off the bench to celebrate and making history, Dreamplanet were finally in a final in their second only knockout stage appearance and only one game away from glory.

June 13th could go down as the greatest day in Dreamplanetian football history as Os Tricores look to finally prove themselves to the nation and the world, but it won't be easy as they will go up against Kita-Hinode who have won this competition already and have lifted the World Cup on two occasions while they were the Northern Sunrise Islands and have already been named the vast favourites, no matter what happens on Thursday, Os Tricores have already made the nation proud by getting the name of Dreamplanet out there, there is only one thing left to do. Lifting that trophy.

Dreamplanet 2 - 2 Mattijana
(Luis Silva 37', 81' - 57', 90+1' Kara Lorenzič)
Penalties
4 - 1
Luis Silva - Kara Lorenzič
Aaron Hungar - Mattias Hoffman
Antonio Luis - Katarina Jakupovic
Miguel Benedito - Jessika Struna
Fullham, Velestria

Sunday June 2nd - MD1: Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 4th - MD2: Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Wednesday June 5th - MD3: Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Friday June 7th - OF2: Dreamplanet 3-2 South Covello
Sunday June 9th - QF1: Velestria 1-2 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 11th - SF1: Dreamplanet (4) 2-2 (1) Mattijana
Thursday June 13th - Final: Dreamplanet vs Kita-Hinode

SEMI-FINALS
Dreamplanet 2–2 Mattijana (2–2 AET) (4–1 pen.)
Kita-Hinode (AET) 2–1 Damukuni

[Velestria]

WELCOME TO 322 CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24!

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Mattijana 3–0 Damukuni

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FINALS

Finals: Dreamplanet v. Kita-Hinode @Klyde Stadium, Fullham

---

OTHER PROCEDUALS

–

[Dreamplanet]

IT'S DREAMPLANET'S TIME

Tomorrow. In less than 24 hours Dreamplanet will take on Kita-Hinode in the Klyde Stadium in Fullham, Velestria. Nobody expected us to get this far, not even us, looking at the match-up doesn't even feel real, but it is. It all started with a shock trashing of last edition's hosts, Apox, and from there it only took off. We topped the group, we beat South Covello in the last second, we beat the hosts in a very good game, we advanced to the final in our first ever final, and now there's only one more game left until glory. We want to be Esportivan champions, we never thought we'd even make the group and we've already come this far, the nation is proud and we want to cement our name in the history books forever.

Kita-Hinode are the ultimate test for Dreamplanet: 2 time World Cup champions under the Northern Sunrise Islands and a CE win in the 21st edition, they'll be looking to completely derail Dreamplanet's tender, fragile pipe dream with the same dominant displays as they have had to top their group with 9 points, Kita-Hinode have already been made the favourites to win the final but Dreamplanet will give a fight until the very end, we want this just as much as they do and Os Tricores will stop at nothing to bring the trophy back to Libon.

GET THE JOB DONE!

L-R: Filipe Vaz, João Pedro, Fransisco Jorge, Paulo Figueiredo, Fábio Henriques, Aaron Hungar
Jorge Cardozo, Paulo Oliveira, Rui Jorge, Miguel Benedito, Luis Silva (C)
Not Pictured: Antonio Luis, Jorge Resende, Luis da Costa, Michael Silva, Duarte Henriques, Rafael dos Bosques

What to Expect
Dreamplanet and Kita-Hinode have gotten to this final by playing attractive, attacking football and Dreamplanet has more goals scored and less goals conceded than Kita-Hinode, despite this fact being in our favour, Kita-Hinode is still the stronger team and overall has more experience: This is Dreamplanet's first ever final in their 4 year history, they have been in 6 finals, losing only 2 of them which gave them 2 World Cups, 1 Campionato Esportiva and 1 Cup of Harmony which is enough to intimidate even the most swept-away of Dreamplanetians.

Dreamplanet's route to the final
Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Dreamplanet 3-2 South Covello
Velestria 1-2 Dreamplanet
Dreamplanet (4) 2-2 (1) Mattijana
5 Wins - 1 Draw - 0 Losses
17 Goals Scored - 8 Goals Conceded

Kita-Hinode's route to the final
Kita-Hinode 1–0 Ceynes Islands
Kita-Hinode 3–2 Racing
The Golden Lotus 0–1 Kita-Hinode
Kita-Hinode 5–4 Fhulghamous Peninsula
Apox (3) 2–2 (4) Kita-Hinode
Kita-Hinode aet 2–1 Damukuni
6 Wins - 0 Draws - 0 Losses
14 Goals Scored - 9 Goals Conceded

But we have Luis Silva who is the current top goalscorer with 9 goals and a solid tactic that has seen us unbeaten throughout this whole tournament just as Kita-Hinode have, Dreamplanet should not be underestimated but we also cannot underestimate Kita-Hinode who has just as much confidence as us, Kita-Hinode play a very analytical and cold-blooded game, almost robotic at times but they have been very efficient with the only match where they weren't as efficient was the 5-4 win over the Fhulghamous Peninsula who Dreamplanet drew against in the group stage but yet they were able to win that match, Dreamplanet play a free-flowing game with the confidence and self-belief that underdogs need to go far but that's just what we are in this final: underdogs. Dreamplanet has passion, experience in Velestria with players in their league and a goalscoring machine but Kita-Hinode has expertise, know-how and their efficiency will do everything to ensure that we can't get our way in a major cup final.

This is truly a David vs Goliath match but expert predictions have even said that Dreamplanet could win 1-0 if they shut out Kita-Hinode after scoring their first goal but the overall consensus is that Kita-Hinode should be able to win fairly easily as they are the better and more technical team, however if Dreamplanet has a flaw it hasn't been spotted yet as this is uncharted territory and they will be playing the same way they played the knockout stages which was a departure from their tactic in the group stage which was to tire the team and then doing a sucker-punch to win. But if Dreamplanet showed anything is that they are capable enough of causing an upset and will never give up, they will take the fight to Kita-Hinode whether they want it or not, Os Tricores will do everything in their power to lift the trophy, after getting this far this is no time to give up.

Ones to Watch
Dreamplanet's is obvious, Luis Silva is a machine that is almost unstoppable, without him Dreamplanet wouldn't even get this far but Aaron Hungar is often one of the sleeper hits of the Dreamplanetian squad as he is able to break free as the defenders are too busy man-marking Luis Silva, Filipe Vaz is also a notable player as he has been very good inbetween the sticks and even became the penalty shootout hero against reigning champions Mattijana. However Dreamplanet does have the ticking timebomb that is Jorge Cardozo but he is teflon, a great defender but hotheaded, Kita-Hinode might try to exploit him to peg Dreamplanet down to 10 men, it is important that the players don't crumble under the pressure that is their first ever final, they must continue playing as they have been.

Kita-Hinode's captain, Iori Saitou, is also their top scorer with 6 goals and he is very quick on the ball much like Luis Silva but is more careful on the ball and prefers to pass it to set up a play where he can finish for the goal, Juri Kisame is a very tough and physical midfielder who always has an eye for the perfect pass, she will be up against the quick and nimble Miguel Benedito so it will be definitely a clash of opposites for the midfield, Raiden Kojima has been solid so far for Kita-Hinode, putting in some very good matches against Ceynes Islands and The Golden Lotus, helping Kita-Hinode to a clean sheet and there is also Cherry Whitecastle who will be Iori's accomplice in attack, she often makes the crosses that end up in a Iori Saitou goal and has notched 8 assists.

Interviews
When asked about the stress involved in playing a final, the Dreamplanetian captain, Luis Silva, looked hopeful with the quote "We will play our game like we have been in the last few matches, we won't let ourselves get carried away and hopefully we'll take the cup home." The manager, Rodrigo Vaz, gave a very brave response to the same question with "This final will be fought hard, we've come here to kill and not be killed!" and Aaron Hungar looked at it more tactically "Out of the two teams, they are the stronger team by far and we've been punching above our own weight and we'll be trying to do that for one more match." Luis Silva was also asked if he reckoned that Kita-Hinode were dismissing Dreamplanet as they were the underdogs, he said "I don't think so, they saw our run and they should take us seriously, if they don't they might get surprised by what we've got in store." and Jorge Cardozo responded in his typical brash manner "I think they do, they look at us and assume that they've already won before even getting on he field, they'll be in for a surprise!" but Aaron Hungar refused a Kita-Hinode lopsided result and said "We've got just as much of a chance to win as they do, they know that and we know that, the match will be won by fine margins, we just need to find a way to get on the right side of said margins."
However Dreamplanetian fans seem to be dreading this final more than looking towards it, citing Kita-Hinode as the team that was most likely going to end their run if they had gotten them earlier, the fans however are still looking forward to giving their team a hero's welcome when they come home and a party in the streets regardless if they won or not.

As for the Kita-Hinode players, when asked about Dreamplanet's presence in the final, Raiden Kojima replied with "I'm fine with them as our opponents. Hopefully, our match will be acceptable for the fans' standards." and team captain Iori Saitou added "Kinda surprised, to be honest with you. Still, it's fun to get an opponent you normally wouldn't get at this stage." which links nicely with Aaron Hungar's comment of Kita-Hinode being the stronger of the two teams, Kamalani disregarded Dreamplanet by saying "Psh, who gives a toss. We're in the final, that's what truly matters. Whoever is in the way is just another sidenote on my career anyway." Mimi Akazukin kept to 1 word answers in the middle of mutilating a rabbit, simply saying "What?" when asked the same question.
Later, the players were asked about their chances of winning, Kojima stuck to his professionalism with "I believe we have a good chance if we can apply our gameplan successfully." and Saitou kept up the professionalism, saying "Eh, 50/50. I'm not going to underestimate them." but Kamalani redirected the attention to himself with "You might as well wage on us. Or rather, wage on me." while Akazukin only said "Good." while opening up the belly of the rabbit.
Finally, the players were asked what their approach was, Kojima gave a response that echoed Luis Silva's by saying "Well, we'll go through it like we went through all our previous match, trying to attack but not letting our guard down. They know it, we know it." Saitou seemed a bit confused on whether the question was for the squad or the manager "I'll try to score, I guess... I mean, you should've just asked the manager." however Kamalani kept it short at blunt "We'll kick their ass, easy as that."
Yes, Akazukin was still doing surgery on a rabbit and simply said "Attack."

Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast on DTV 1 with coverage starting at 17:30 as the match starts at 19:45 Dreamplanetian Time, if you are watching abroad the match should be available on DTV Internacional and DTVLive, a livestream of the fanzone in Libon's Praça da Cidade will also be shown at the Dreamplanetian FA page.

Expected Starting 11s

DREAMPLANET: Filipe Vaz, Fransisco Jorge, Jorge Cardozo, João Pedro, Rui Jorge, Paulo Oliveira, Fábio Henriques, Miguel Benedito, Luis Silva (C), Aaron Hungar, Antonio Luis
Subs: Rafael dos Bosques, Duarte Henriques, Michael Silva, Luis da Costa, Jorge Resende, Paulo Figueiredo
Tactic: 4-1-2-3
Manager: Rodrigo Vaz
Captain: Luis Silva
Top Goalscorer: Luis Silva (9 goals)
Top Assister: Aaron Hungar & Miguel Benedito (3 assists each)

KITA-HINODE: Han Ji-hun, Koetsu Okuyama, Etishi Karu, Raiden Kojima, Mimi Akazukin, Juri Kisame, Kamalani Kanani, Somporn Metharom, Arichi Kunorikato, Iori Saitou (C), Cherry Whitecastle
Subs: Iona Mizukara, Granz-maëdel De Charlot, Motoko Kusanagi, Hinata Azuma, Tomoe Mikage, Nina Niikara
Tactic: 4-3-3
Manager: Eleanor Lingard
Captain: Iori Saitou
Top Goalscorer: Iori Saitou (6 goals)
Top Assister: Cherry Whitecastle (8 assists)

[Velestria]

WELCOME TO 322 CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24!

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Dreamplanet 1–4 Kita-Hinode

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FINALS

Congratulations to Kita-Hinode
Commiserations to Dreamplanet

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[Dreamplanet]

WE'RE STILL PROUD OF YOU!

Kita-Hinode lifted the cup to our dismay, the occasion was just too big for us.

In Dreamplanet there was an atmosphere of partying before the game kicked off, by the end of it the nation felt silent as Kita-Hinode had hammered them 4-1 despite a bright start, taking the cup not to Libon but to Hokuto. After group stages and the knockout rounds, nobody expected Dreamplanet to be in the final and even have a chance of winning, Kita-Hinode were the favourites to lift the cup by the time the Semi-Finals had arrived but nobody could underestimate Dreamplanet, they had beaten the reigning champions and World Cup regulars on the way to the final and even seemed the most impressive of the two sides with less goals conceded and more scored, however nobody could underestimate Os Tricores who had captured the hearts and minds of an entire region, but it just wasn't to be. Dreamplanetians still had their party, although on a much smaller scale due to the bitter-loser nature of the Dreamplanetian people, the worst thing you can do is make us believe, but the ride was fun while it lasted.

CAMPIONATO ESPORTIVA 24

GLORY FOR KITA-HINODE
Report: Dreamplanet 1-4 Kita-Hinode
Luis Silva: "We did all we could."
Bitter Pride: The Story of CE 24
Iori Saitou: "It was a match of fine margins."
Celebrations and Commiserations in Fullham & Libon
International Press react to CE 24 final
What went wrong for Dreamplanet?
Rodrigo Vaz: "I only have myself to blame."

The Velish had put on a good show, despite all the protests and the dubious ill-advised nature of hosting it in the middle of political turmoil but they were able to get it done and here we were in the final with 49,932 people in attendance, almost full capacity. Luis Silva and Iori Saitou had lead their men out of the tunnel and onto the field to the excitement of both fans, Kita-Hinode were eyeing up the trophy, probably to know how to lift it up after the match was over while Dreamplanet were just happy to be there, but wouldn't be happy to lose. It all started wonderfully for Dreamplanet when Luis Silva crossed an indirect free-kick (as a result of Koetsu Okuyama getting his hand to an earlier cross, receiving a yellow) into the path of Antonio Luis, who lashed it home to the ecstasy back home and in the stadium, Kita-Hinode never lost their composure and Dreamplanet committed tactical suicide by ditching their world-beating attacking tactics and decided to park the bus with 80 minutes to go. It all fell apart in the 37th minute when Cherry Whitecastle was fouled inside the box, giving the yellow card to Jorge Cardozo and Iori Saitou sent it to the bottom left when Filipe Vaz guessed top right, the golden gloves were left at home. Despite that, the match would stay tied at half time, Jorge Cardozo's mistimed tackle ended up costing Dreamplanet the lead but all was not yet lost.

That was until the 56th minute when Kita-Hinode got a corner, Raiden Kojima crossed it in and Cherry Whitecastle headed it past a stumbling Filipe Vaz, who was completely caught out cold, Dreamplanet decided to go all attack to try to salvage the final and even had some decent chances with Aaron Hungar hitting the bar in the 75th minute and Luis Silva poking a shot just wide of the post, but in the 81st minute, Aaron Hungar crossed it in for Luis Silva, Dreamplanet thought they scored as Luis Silva was right next to the goal in prime tap-in range, unbelievably he tapped it into the post with a grateful Han Ji-hun clutching the ball. Luis Silva and Antonio Luis immediately put their hands on their heads, some players were even celebrating and during that confusion, the reality sank in that Dreamplanet wasted the chance and before they knew it, the top scorer in the whole Campionato Esportiva 24 campaign had just missed the easiest chance of his life, Han Ji-hun had lumped the ball up to Kalamani Kanani who volleyed it far from the box, looping over a baffled Luis Silva and indicating who would lift the Campionato Esportiva, and it wasn't Dreamplanet.

The despair from the Dreamplanetian squad and fans was visible, with 9 minutes left of regulation time and a mountain to climb, all Dreamplanet could do was push on but that only opened up an opportunity for Iori Saitou to run with the ball, dodging challenges left, right and center before crossing it in to Kanani who flicked it effortlessly past Filipe Vaz. The score was 4-1 and nothing Dreamplanet could do, as the full time whistle blew, Rodrigo Vaz and his men fell to the floor, this was their greatest chance at getting their hands on silverware, maybe their only chance, the nation was inconsolable but yet still applauded their own achievement, they had gone from 80–1 outsiders to contenders, they had taken on the best in Esportiva and were able to work hard to get where they were but it just wasn't to be, the occasion was far too big for them in only their second Campionato Esportiva appearance. Os Tricores will be welcomed back on the 14th of June but the disappointment will still be fresh in the minds, there was still some partying at the Praça da Cidade as their achievement was enough to make the biggest nations in football respect them, but it'll be an empty trophy case for some time.

KITA-HINODE CHAMPIONS (2nd title)
Dreamplanet Runners-Up
Mattijana Third Place
Damukuni Fourth Place

Kita-Hinode had a flawless campaign, winning every single game and even though this was their most lopsided victory this tournament, Dreamplanet still put up a good fight but crumbled under the pressure, June 13th should've gone down as the greatest day in Dreamplanetian football history but it went down as where Dreamplanet flew too close to the sun and inevitably got burnt by inexperience. Kita-Hinode had dominated the match as we let the anxiety get the best of us, it is a bitter second place medal but it is still a second place medal, we are able to say that we are amongst the big boys in Esportiva, atleast for now if it doesn't last. Now Os Tricores will eye up their prospects of qualifying for the World Cup, after all a Campionato Esportiva runner-up hasn't missed the World Cup since Gregoryisgodistan for the 73rd World Cup, we'll be there right? Well, with low morale but a Campionato Esportiva silver medal, which Dreamplanetian fans thought they'd never even get close to, Dreamplanet can put forward prospects for the 83rd World Cup but it will be hard. For now, all we have to do is wonder what if Luis Silva had managed to poke it in twice, what if Aaron Hungar's shot hit the bar and went in? Things would be very different and the result could've even been lopsided in Dreamplanet's favour, but the reality is more brutal than any fiction.

Dreamplanet 1 - 4 Kita-Hinode
(Antonio Luis 10' - 37' (pen.) Iori Saitou, 56' Cherry Whitecastle, 81', 88' Kamalani Kanani)
Fullham, Velestria

Sunday June 2nd - MD1: Apox 1-4 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 4th - MD2: Dreamplanet 3-1 San José Guayabal
Wednesday June 5th - MD3: Fhulghamous Peninsula 1-1 Dreamplanet
Friday June 7th - OF2: Dreamplanet 3-2 South Covello
Sunday June 9th - QF1: Velestria 1-2 Dreamplanet
Tuesday June 11th - SF1: Dreamplanet (4) 2-2 (1) Mattijana
Thursday June 13th - Final: Dreamplanet 1-4 Kita-Hinode

FINAL & 3RD PLACE PLAY-OFF
Final: Dreamplanet 1–4 Kita-Hinode
3PPO: Mattijana 3-0 Damukuni

[Velestria]

PRESENTING PARTNERS

As the closing ceremonies begin we thank you for attending the 24th Campionato Esportiva in Velestria, as the Velish flag and the flag of the Crown Federation is raised for the final time of this tournament, we bid you goodbye.

[Kita-Hinode]

At the start of the tournament, Hinodejin opinion was certain of one thing: cyborgs were the way to go. They had shown their talents in several sports fields, dominating some aspects of the national scene. Humanity was to be perfected, not to remain natural. Of course, to that, there were the skeptics. Some were more vocal but in traditional Hinodejin behaviour, nobody dared to raise a finger, choosing instead to defend their thoughts with words in a peaceful but torrid enough argument.

Of course, there was the financial aspect. The medical authorities of the empire knew that there were some obvious advantages to these improvements, but the process was usually costly, which meant making a certain group of people even richer at the expense of the common man that had been impressed by the results displayed on the news of those athletes. There was one thing to note, however: those athletes were people that had suffered accidents. They weren't born that way, as obvious as it needs to be stated. They weren't communists, but to give so much power on the hands of those that already had the access to the main frame of others...

Alas, those thoughts faded when a Hinodejin line-up consisting mostly of naturals, with the eventual cyborg, took the Campionato Esportiva back home. They had avoided the crossroads, the issue had been pushed back. Sure, it'd come back again one day, but now, the Hinodejin learned an important lesson. You can still be yourself and achieve greatness, you just need to work hard for it. Granted, they probably didn't know they had taught the Empire that lesson as Kamalani Kanani posed with the title with her usual smirk.