AOCAF LVIII Everything Thread

[Equestrian States]

-AOCAF CUP LVIII - QUARTERFINALS-
Ponies Prevail in Southwest Showdown to Reach Semifinals
Equestrians advance to second-consecutive semifinal, will face hosts Baker Park
by Steve McNotapony

Farfadillis 1-2 Equestria
at Collins Park in Oceana, Baker Park
Attendance: 48,154
Scoring:
Pristina Shine '17 (A. Molovi)
Rainbow Blitz '67 (Cloudchaser)
Stiin Siorrha'Asione '90+2 (Unassisted)

OCEANA, Baker Park - The Equestrians may have reached the AOCAF Cup quarterfinals behind a rather unconvincing series of performances, but the Ponies will be flying high entering the semifinals after a commanding 2-1 victory over holders Farfadillis in which they finally looked like a team capable of bringing Equestria its first ever regional title.

As was the case at the 57th AOCAF Cup, the Ponies were largely unimpressive in the group stage of this year's AOCAF Cup, only scoring two goals in three matches but securing enough points to finish atop Group D with a final day victory. Then, in the second round, the Equestrians faced a tougher-than-expected 95X side but prevailed thanks to the late heroics of Rosewing. This set up what promised to be a fascinating quarterfinal clash between Equestria and Farfadillis, two old rivals from the Glorious Southwest with a nearly-forgotten shared history of high-stakes meetings and a present in which they are aiming to reach the summit of international hoofball. Pundits predicted a battle of fire and ice, the Farves' potent attack being pitted against the Equestrians' world-class back line, with only room for one of them in the semifinals. La Vherderoja seeking to defend their AOCAF Cup title, while the Ponies eyed a second-consecutive semifinal berth after missing out on a medal by the slimmest of margins at the last AOCAF Cup.

The two Atlantian Oceanian heavyweights would not disappoint the capacity crowd at Collins Park.

Although the Farves were the ones who entered the fixture with an expected game plan of attack, attack, attack, it was the Equestrians who pushed hardest for an early opener. Aarón Aiza was denied by the combined efforts of goalkeeper Íüé Tgô and the crossbar in the 8th minute and Luminesce would've scored off the ensuing corner if not for a goal line clearance from Ezequiel Marchiondo. However, with the Ponies dominating the midfield battle, denying La Vherderoja the chance to push the Equestrians into their own half, the Farf back line was being battered to the breaking point. In the 17th minute, Andrea Molovi, possibly making her final start for the purple-and-orange, punched through the Farves' final defenses, delivering a brilliant long ball to Pristina Shine, who beat Tgô on the near post and slotted the ball into the net to put the Equestrians on the board.

Pristina Shine nearly made it 2-0 a few minutes later when a sloppy pass from fullback Baldomero Teijeiro left her with a one-on-two chance, but was denied by the outstretched glove of Tgô. Fortunately for the Farves, the play from their back line and midfield would improve significantly before the end of the first half and by the time the whistle blew for halftime they were finally putting pressure on the Equestrians. In the second half, La Vherderoja came out of the gates swinging, hoping to level the score before the Ponies could regain their footing, and it might've worked if not for a set of masterful saves from Gentle Breeze, who surely has her eyes set on the tournament's Golden Glove award.

A tired-looking Andrea Molovi made way for Ironhoof in the 63rd minute, solidifying the Equestrian back line after a period of sustained pressure from the Farves. It looked as though the Ponies would be aiming to buckle down and shut down the Farf attack, holding out for a 1-0 win, when the Ponies broke out on a counterattack in the 67th minute. Cloudchaser led the charge down the left flank of the pitch, looking like a mare 10 years younger, before lancing a cross into the box where a waiting Rainbow Blitz headed the ball into the far top corner. The purple-clad Equestrian supporters erupted, wildly celebrating as the Ponies' outgoing and future captains embraced near the corner flag.

The final 20 minutes would witness an incredible display of world-class defending from the Equestrian back line as La Vherderoja pushed hard in a desperate bid to force extra time. However, as the Farves grew increasingly frantic in their attempts to score, the Ponies kept their cool and closed off nearly every opening before La Vherderoja could find it. Those efforts that the Equestrian defenders could not stop, Gentle Breeze did, flitting back and forth in goal to snuff out those shots which got by her teammates. Farf striker Stiin Siorrha'Asione scored in the 92nd minute on a free kick, ending the Ponies' 466 minute streak of not conceding a goal, but it was too little too late for La Vherderoja. The final whistle blew a minute later, sealing the Ponies’ spot in the semifinals.

AOCAF CUP LVIII - QUARTERFINALS RESULTS
 Baker Park 4–2 Vilita & Turori 
@ Rogers Stadium in Endborough, BKP
 Farfadillis 1–2 Equestria 
@ Collins Park in Oceana, BKP
 Banija 3–1 Mriin 
@ Star Field in Herzegovina City, BNJ
 Cosumar 6–2 Siovanjia & Teusland 
@ Kabonero III Field in Istria, BNJ

Meanwhile, in Endborough, Baker Park stunned World Cup-winners Vilita & Turori by a 4-2 scoreline that few, if any, would have predicted. The Vilitan Cove team had conceded just one goal previously in the tournament before the co-hosts hammered four past the team considered by many to be the best in the multiverse. In Banija, the scores were similarly brutal: co-hosts Banija cruising to a comfortable 3-1 win against Mriin and Cosumar eviscerating a Siovanjia & Teusland side that some thought might be a dark horse contender for the regional title. The quarterfinals of the 58th AOCAF Cup may not have provided neutrals with any nail-biters, but they do set the stage for what ought to be an incredible final two rounds.

AOCAF CUP LVIII - SEMIFINALS FIXTURES
 Baker Park vs. Equestria 
@ Keller Field in Belle Haven, BKP
 Banija vs. Cosumar 
@ Mavuto Field in Hoima, BNJ

At the first ever AOCAF Cup to be co-hosted, both hosts have reached the semifinals, the first time that any host nation has reached this stage of the Atlantian Oceanian championship since Tropicorp at the tournament's 54th edition. The semifinal fixtures themselves, however, are far less intriguing than the potential Finals they set up. With two co-hosts alive, there exists the possibility that this historic AOCAF Cup ends in a clash between hosts Banija and Baker Park for the title, a fascinating prospect. Alternatively, a rematch of the AOCAF Cup 57 semifinal thriller between Equestria and Cosumar could also tantalize neutrals. However, without a doubt, the most interesting potential Final is Equestria-Banija: the two fierce local rivals with a high-profile recent history of fighting not only on the hoofball pitch, but also on the battlefield.

[Banija]

What a time to be alive, eh?

Enough with the insecurities. Believe in yourself. Put the past to rest. Enjoy this moment.

This maybe the greatest AOCAF you've ever had. But just remember- only one will stand at the end of it all.

You didn't come this far just to come this far, did you? But first, we'll cutoff

AOCAF Semifinals
Baker Park 0–0 Equestrian States (0–0 AET) (2–4 pen.)

Third Place Playoff
Baker Park v. Cosumar @ Keller Field in Belle Haven, Baker Park
This shall be scorinated by Banija

AOCAF LVIII Final
Banija v. The Equestrian States @ The Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija
This shall be scorinated by Baker Park

[Izmedu]

(OOC: Just wanted to say, thank you so much again to Banija for allowing me the chance to write this RP! I previously wrote a halftime show for a World Bowl final and Banija has once again invited me to write a closing ceremony concert for AOCAF LVIII final. I've been at work throughout the weekend thinking, crafting, and writing this, and again, I can't be any more grateful for this opportunity. Good luck to the two nations in the participating in the AOCAF final!)

AOCAF LVIII CLOSING CEREMONY CONCERT
Performed by Olga Vrbic, Winner of the 71st WorldVision Song Contest
At The Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija

91,835 people... I thought 10,000 to 25,000 was going to be the pinnacle of everything I've done.

Olga Vrbic tried to wrap her head around that number as she was preparing, physically, mentally, emotionally, and vocally, for the closing ceremony concert. This kind of event was unprecedented for those steeped in the Izmeduan music industry. Only a few other acts have done this kind of performance for Izmedu, having done so for the World Bowl and the Olympics. However, such an opportunity was a rare one, and usually... It was done under the purview of 'safe hands,' so to speak, by those who have had a consistent activity within the Izmeduan music sphere. It shocked the Izmeduan music community that Banija once more offered to graciously host an Izmeduan act for a sporting event. This time, that event was the 58th AOCAF, the very closing ceremony before the final game between Banija and The Equestrian States was supposed to begin. Perhaps the one who was shocked the most was Olga Vrbic herself, the very singer invited to perform for the pre-game closing ceremony.

She hadn't really attempted to bid or vie for further stardom after winning the 71st WorldVision Song Contest with Duje Simunic. In fact, she desired to take her sound towards a more intimate direction after a chaotic career in the Izmeduan music industry. Stripping her sound down to a more folksy and rock direction, Olga had become the quiet, elder stateswoman of music of sorts that would occasionally reference her wilder earlier period of her career. Before becoming embroiled in the canceled film project that inspired the song that won the 71st WorldVision Song Contest, Olga Vrbic was at the forefront of both fashion and dance pop. Arguably, she was affectionately and pejoratively called the queen of shocks, utilizing the kind of surreal and in-your-face approaches that were common but more restrained in the Izmeduan avant-garde. She took them towards a more expressive direction, pioneering the kind of 'out there' template that's only been emulated in occasion. Thus, in the auspices of Izmeduan music history, there was no one quite like her.

That kind of star could only last for so long. She fell into a deep obscurity until that WorldVision win with Duje Simunic. It was only through seeing her feature film debut fall apart before release and taking a 'last chance,' so to speak, on the music was what led Olga to her current and resurgent position. Shortly after her WorldVision win, she'd become quickly inspired by the character and narrative she played in that failed film, almost to the point where she'd begin to write an album's worth of songs. The resulting product was one that was written and recorded over a period of two years, at least with 600 days' worth of constant introspection, late night conversations with Duje Simunic and what was left of her former management team. The resulting project was itself called Dear Hana, built as a concept album both in tribute to a family member of hers who passed long ago and as an introspective exploration of nostalgia, loss, mourning, and looking toward the future even when all seems bleak.

That was what she brings into Banija and the AOCAF LVIII final. Years ago, something like this would've been perfect for her first foray into the Izmeduan music industry. She could party it up and rouse arena audiences like no tomorrow, but something of this scale?... Over 90,000 people was an overwhelming thought even if she had brought along an army of dancers and intricate staging. What made it all the more overwhelming was that the whole set-up was practically just Olga and Olga alone. There was some light staging involved and for sure she'd have someone special with her, but all in all... From the way this was going to be marketed and from the way she'd approach it, this was almost all on her.

To do this in a country where she was practically an unknown... Waiting in the wings of the newly renovated Stadium of the Renovation, witnessing all 91,835 football fans was a surreal experience. She knew she wasn't going to be the center-piece of the experience, considering the home team themselves were contesting for the title. Still, she hoped that what she had to show would spark some sort of reaction from someone watching. She wasn't expecting this to turn the tides of a career that was slowly fading or even gain a significant amount of new fans. All Olga desired was for someone to just listen for the small set she had for the 10 minutes she was gracefully allowed. She took a deep breath, finding a center where she finally felt calm. As soon as she stepped foot on the stage specifically meant for the performance, situated right at the center of the field, it was as if she was back in the recording studio. Olga was now face to face with the music. Now, here she was, ready to perform...

---

The transition to the mini-concert that Olga would be holding was a seamless one. Outside of a few indicators in the broadcast, it was almost an out-of-context switch to an Izmeduan singer standing in the middle of the Stadium of the Restoration almost on her lonesome. She would be accompanied by a man on guitar, a familiar-looking one, sitting on a stool. Surrounding Olga and the guitarist would be an array of special lights specifically arranged for the performance, considering that the production team associated with Olga's team did not want to fuddle too much with the more 'in-the-round' setting. The amount of people that were in the stadium itself completely astounded Olga. 91,835 people in actuality... all cheering loudly, producing a more surreal sound than being in the WorldVision stage itself. The only thing that helped was that it was almost easier to imagine the whole stadium as empty void in the darkness. The fact that she was quite literally in the very center of the stadium made it easy for her to let the air floating around mold into background noise and imagine herself back in the recording studio. Here she was... in front of a solitary microphone, about to introduce something personal to the world.

While many in the stadium were awaiting the big final game between Banija and The Equestrian States, perhaps a bit of music wouldn't hurt. Olga took a deep breath, now feeling the camera's gaze upon her. A soft set of chords from a piano would emanate from the speakers, a solemn but fond expression on Olga's face as the concert would now start.

Olga Vrbic - Dear Hana/Barely Holding On
Tune: Lady Gaga - Joanne/A Million Reasons (Live at the Grammys 2018)

“This is for someone I who used to know dearly, Hana. This is to remember what once was and smile upon what I have left.”

Olga would say the above brief monologue to introduce the song. She would nod at each word she spoke, deliver them with a grace, clarity, but a heaviness of weight displaying that these emotions and wounds were still only freshly healing within her. Her eyes bore the weight of that grief, even if only latent and almost difficult to decipher from the stands. The camera would catch each and every single tic, staying focused on her as she would sing this song on her lone-some, carrying an almost impossible task of having to fill out the entire stadium with just her voice alone. The camera would inch just that bit closer to her, and she would begin to sing a brief snippet of this song...

Dear Hana, this I write
How are you? It's been so long
The days grow ever so colder
Without you. The pain never stopped

She sang each word slowly, taking her time with each syllable. There was a heaviness to her voice that was augmented from the expressions and the way she delivered her brief opening line. Her voice was labored, as if being driven under from the emotions. Yet still, Olga retained a control by making sure to deliver this brief and first verse as carefully as she could. She would clutch her chest gently at the second line, almost holding and inching the microphone stand closer to her. Her face would grimace just that little bit from the way she delivered her vocals, before relaxing back into that slow and relaxed tone. She gazed into the cameras pointed at her, her face tilting. Her eyes and visage showed only the long-held grief inside her. Once the verse was done, the camera would slowly fade to a wider view of the stage, just shortly before Olga would launch herself towards the chorus.

Sis, I hope these words find you well
I hope these words find you well
Rest now, sis
Sis, I hope these words find you well
I hope these words find you well
Rest now, sis

The lights surrounding the stage would glimmer and shine slightly, looking almost like stars in a darkened sky. These lights would shimmer in an almost snake-like, abstract pattern from the camera's tilted view. The camera would then resume its focus on Olga, as she belted out these lines. She kept her delivery restrained, making sure not to overdo it and to keep just the right amount of power and emotion. Even despite the way she was trying to hold back, there was a clear and palpable emotion resonating from her. Her face strained as she went through each line, as if she was speaking and singing directly to the person that she wrote this for. The camera would circle around her softly for these lines, before ending directly in front of her at the end. At the last 'rest now, sis,' that was the end of the chorus and consequently, the very short snippet of the song.

There was a short orchestral flourish to mark the next song, with Olga nodding and taking a brief step back to breathe.

This next song would also begin by piano, but instead through a flurry of notes that would coalesce into a familiar-sounding melody. These notes would soften, further heralding that it was time for Olga to since once more. In tune to these notes, those in the audience could see the lights on the field shining to each of them, creating a brief but nearly dazzling light show as a preview of what was to come. As the brief instrumental introduction reached its conclusion, Olga could be seen walking back to the microphone with a resolve in her eyes. The spotlight on Olga would begin to intensify as it was time for her to begin singing this song...

Every day I'm barely holding on, I've hit that point
Every day I'm barely holding on, I'm exhausted
Every day I'm barely holding on
Barely holding on to life
Barely holding on to my dreams
Only barely holding on

The Stadium of the Restoration was aglow with the gentle streams of white light as Olga sang this song. Versus the labored deliberation of Dear Hana, there was an urgent pace and tone to the proceedings. Even if the lyrics were morose, the way Olga sang this had a faintest hint of determination in her eyes. She would shake her head in occasion as she quickly delivered the refrain that would mark a considerable part of the song. Olga would directly lock the camera with her hard gaze, as if she was speaking to the audience at home her troubles and frailties right there with them. She sang this as if this was simply a prelude to a story, a woman at the very end of her rope and feeling like there's nowhere else to go. Olga would keep her voice low and husky throughout these starting lines, moving seamlessly towards the next.

This close to letting go, cutting this fragile cord
Easier to fly away, forgetting what I was
Even now still I'm barely holding on
Barely holding on to life
Barely holding on to my dreams
Only barely holding on

The pain began to seep and become more visible in her eyes as she sang this verse. Her eyes were closed as her confession began to intensify bit by bit. Her voice began to waver from the emotion that pouring out from her. However, she kept it as controlled as possible, utilizing the camera as her crutch to keep her voice and performance centered. Her eyes were more downcast now, an expression of exhaustion becoming even more apparent when the camera maintained its close views on her. The Stadium of the Restoration's lights would begin to flash a more visible white, finally revealing the guitarist to the audience (who was beginning to gently strum along to the song).

Why am I still here?
All I see are just endless dead ends
Who am I? Truly?
Chasing all these impossible dreams
My body's breaking and I can't hold on anymore
I don't know when I gotta throw it away

She spared no time heading into the chorus. An array of lights began to shine timed with the increased intensity of her vocals. Her eyes were closed, her hands clasped around the microphone tightly, and her gaze now up towards the sky as she sang this chorus. The camera then began to emphasize wider shots, especially to show the viewers at home the burgeoning light show. The field was was now truly lit up, looking almost like a galaxy of white lights that lapped around the stage that was timed to each note. However, Olga was still the center-piece of the performance, especially emphasized when the second half would see the camera return back to her. The tone in her voice was now a pleading one, a confession that had intensified to a breaking point. For the second to last line, she gave it her all in belting out 'I can't hold on anymore,' using that as the moment to release the microphone from its stand and now walk freely. The camera would fade to a mid-shot view of her as this chorus ended, leading towards a more dramatic bridge.

Oh honey I'm falling, falling low
Close to the edge and fading, fading
Running out of reasons to keep on going
I don't know when I gotta give up
Let go, let go, let go, let go, let go...

This was the part where she let go of any pretension of inhibition and laid it as much out there as she could, even with the sparser arrangement. Her voice intensified with a force that was only teased from the big note just earlier. Olga vocalized every single emotion that resonated from this song, clutching her chest and the camera focusing on side views. Her face would grimace from the powerful vocals she was delivering, her eyes and expression tinged with that feeling of hopelessness and the need to let this all out without compromise. She would move towards the guitarist, with him passionately strumming along as he became the person to which Olga would begin to direct her performance towards. It created a moment where the scale of the Stadium of the Restoration would be realized even from the very center of the stage, with Olga's passionate singing being framed by an audience of 91,835 gazing upon her as the camera would rotate around both people. As this bridge ended, done so by background singers almost chanting 'let go,' Olga would take a breath to prepare for the final chorus of the song...

And why am I still here?
All I see are just endless dead ends
Who am I? Truly?
Chasing all these impossible dreams
My body's breaking and I can't hold on anymore
I don't know when I gotta give up
I don't know when to let this go
Yet I'm still... here...

At this last chorus of the song, the Stadium of the Restoration was now coated in a brilliant array of white lights, brightening the whole center of the stage and temporarily revealing the extent of the stage for Olga's performance. These lights would appear and fade relatively quickly, only appearing for the first few words of the chorus. The camera would return back to a close view Olga and the guitarist. Olga would passionately sing out this chorus, letting out every inch of emotion she'd been holding on during the build-up to the song, while trying to make sure not to expend too much of her voice. Regardless, she gave it her all, especially when she held out an even longer note on 'I can't hold on anymore,' the camera circling around her and ceasing as she held that note. She ended that note with a bang, going even higher before stopping, delivering the last three lines gently. The camera would slowly zoom in towards her as she said 'here.'

Here...
Here...

She ended the song gently, singing each 'here' simply and with only the barest hint of any vocal modulations or tricks. Olga would high the last 'here' as high as she could go, raising one hand to control her balance as the song would end on that note. She felt the crowd cheer as that small medley would end, nodding towards the crowd and then towards her guitarist.

It wasn't going to be the smoothest transition to the next, and possibly most familiar, song. However, it was now or never. Olga would nod towards the guitarist, smiling fondly that a spotlight was beginning to develop on him as he stepped away from the stool that he was standing on. Stage hands, well-hidden within the darkness and from the camera views, would begin to place a microphone stand that wasn't too far from Olga's. During this, Olga would begin to return to her old position. All of this was done in the space of 10 to 15 seconds, as the backing track was beginning to be prepared. For the viewers at home, this was marked by a complete fading of the camera views.

Olga Vrbic & Duje Simunic – Last Chance
Tune: Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper - Shallow (Live at the Oscars 2019)
Click here for the original WorldVision performance

A familiar guitar strain for those familiar with the WorldVision Song Contest began to play, recognizing it as a fairly recent winner. For those familiar with the contest, they cheered loudly at just the intro, knowing exactly what song was going to come and who now joined Olga on the stage. The camera feed now returned, with a more unique light configuration in the stadium now apparent. The camera would focus on the guitarist's hands as he'd play along to the backing track, plucking each note and chord. As the guitarist would play each note, with perfect timing, the camera would slowly rise up in its view. The rugged hands looked familiar to those that closely watched WorldVision. Before long, his identity would be revealed... Duje Simunic was the very guitarist supporting Olga Vrbic throughout this entire mini-concert. Here he was now, about to reprise the WorldVision winning song he sung together with Olga. With that brief reveal, it was time for Duje to sing the song...

Staring at the edge
Life's passing us by with all these scars
We still got a shot?
Or do we let go and just move on?
I'm still here
Holding on to us
To our glories and hopes, our love
Maybe I'm a fool, scared and lonely

For this verse, the camera views and cues were almost remarkably similar to the original performance. However, the arrangement was a different one used from the song. This time, there was a deliberate slowness to the proceedings, as seen when Duje delivered the lines much more slowly, an almost contemplative tone to his voice. There was a dramatic side-view of him with a light bearing down on his face, revealing his hair and his visage glimmering against the light. Said configuration accentuated his expression and demeanor when he sang the first verse, which took on a much different tenor from the original WorldVision performance. He was a man that, like Olga, he was at the end of his rope and reflecting on his own story. His voice may not have been quite as rugged, and the beginning was a bit shaky due to being out of practice for a while even despite rehearsals in his home country. However, as he progressed through this verse, his vocals became more and more secure and resonant, gradually turning into the rough smoothness that was necessary for this kind of song. Throughout this verse, he would catch the camera's gaze whenever one would land upon him. He'd also occasionally look towards Olga's direction, especially in the second half of the verse. When the verse ended, he would step back, still plucking at his guitar as it was time for Olga to take center-stage for the performance... The camera view faded back to the woman herself, looking lost.

Staring at the skies
Life's passing us by without stopping
We still got a shot?
Or are we just hoping for nothing?
I'm still here
Holding on to us
To our glories and hopes, our love
Maybe I'm a fool, scared and lonely

For Olga's verse, the instrumentation and the stage work still remained sparse. The camera would focus on her, gaze and eyes pointed towards the audience and occasionally Duje. Eventually, her full view would turn towards Duje, as the camera would zoom out just a bit to involve a view with both of them. Olga kept her voice lower and soft, taking cues from Duje's similarly slower-paced delivery. She kept that same contemplative gaze and tone, occasionally even looking upwards and shaking heard at opportune moments throughout the first half. The camera would slowly circle around them, the lights around them changing without any regard to timing or beats, simulating a concert venue that was 'unplanned' and not choreographed to a specific performer. This gaze was meant to accentuate to the viewers at home and in the audience the very intensity of the emotions surrounding this song between them. Olga's look towards Duje was one of complete yearning, one that kept intensifying as the chorus kept going. This framing between them would continue, especially deep into the second half. The focus would return back to Olga, focusing solely on her for the song's dramatic vocal moment, the chorus...

I'm taking this chance, I'm not letting go
I'm jumping in with you
Through this crazy world, these wild emotions
Because this is our last chance

For the chorus, Olga would up the intensify of her vocals and belt each and every single line out. All of the desperation, the longing, the questioning, all of those emotions were laid out on the stage. Even if Olga had performed this song so many times since WorldVision, the raw emotions she felt every single time she performed this particular part never faded. Her voice soared as she hit every single high note, infusing them with as much power and passion as possible. The instrumentation would remain bare, acting as a fragile frame and vehicle for Olga's voice. The camera kept each view close on her as possible, her whole face framed and being gently illuminated by the ever-changing lights, invoking the feel of an intimate venue and show amongst such a large stadium. As soon as she belted out the last line, the camera would return back to a mutual view of Olga and Duje, both gazing at each other with these mutual looks of pain, adoration, and longing.

This is our last chance
The only one we'll ever have
This is our last chance
The only one we'll ever have
Because this is our last chance

For the first time, Olga and Duje would now be singing together for the performance. The camera hung back, freezing at a certain spot where it looked like the two were singing to each other. The instrumentation swooned only slightly, a soft electric guitar lapping about that complemented the piano and soft string arrangements. Their voiced melded together effortlessly, with Olga taking center-stage while Duje sang the harmonies. Both would let their pain out together, letting their attentions be dominated by each other. At the last line, the instrumentation would finally intensify for the first time of the song, the camera swiftly moving as the attention began to focus itself back on Olga.

The lights would begin to coalesce and change into a maelstrom of color. She would once more perform trademark scaling of notes, singing ever and more upwards. She started off low first, locking the camera with a view of determination. The instrumentation would further intensify the more Olga held her notes and the higher she went. She would raise her hands ever-so upwards, gripping the microphone stand and then leaning into it. Once she hit the highest note that this song allowed, she belted it out as powerfully as she could. The Stadium of the Restoration had roared to life in time for the last minute of the song.

I'm taking this chance, I'm not letting go
I'm jumping in with you
Through this crazy world, these wild emotions
Because this is our last chance

Just as the stadium's lights intensified, so did the song's instrumentation. A full band had accompanied Olga's voice as she let everything out once more. From showing desperation to now reaching for a dream and taking a chance. That was the mood etched on her whole expression as she passionately delivered this chorus one last time, extending her voice as far as it could go considering the past number. However, she pushed on regardless, letting herself feel the complicated exhilaration and euphoria from this song. As this half of the chorus reached its conclusion, Duje can be seen walking towards her. He was there sans his guitar, prepared to sing out the conclusion of this song with her. The instrumentation and lights would soften. The camera would zoom out, making sure that this final chorus was between them both...

This is our last chance
The only one we'll ever have
This is our last chance
The only one we'll ever have
Because this is our last chance

For this, the camera faded to a view of just both. Their eyes were closed and their foreheads nearly nuzzled against each other. They did this against the now pure darkness of the Stadium of the Restoration, the only lights simply being a spotlight on both singers. The instrumentation was about as bare as it was going to be without going a capella. This last section was going to be driven with their voices alone. The final line, however, was sung without any accompaniment. That last moment, that last line... It was a moment between just them and them alone. It was a simple and soft outpouring of all the emotions that led to this song, a fast life coupled with many ventures and exposures to failure now leading up to two souls in this one intimate moment. At that last note, the spotlights on them would fade.

Just like the night of the WorldVision Song Contest, both Olga and Duje would be hugging each other tightly, finding comfort and excitement in each other from the loud cheer in the stadium. Both, especially Olga, could not have believed what had just transpired tonight. This electricity... this excitement... Sure, she and Duje may have been performing to an audience that was not familiar with her work, or even her country to an even larger extent.

Yet... to have this opportunity meant the world. Even if this turned into a footnote in her and Duje's careers, she wouldn't forget this night.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Guests First--Commonwealth 0-0 (AET) Equestrian States (2-4 on penalties)
Frank Armitage
The Daily Mail Chief Soccer Writer

Reporting from Keller Field, Belle Haven:

This time, there was little consolation to be had, no feeling of accomplishment, rather there was one of sadness, no wistful regret of what might have been.

At a point in the future, there will be time to look back, to reflect with pride on what they have achieved during this point of their lives, but it wouldn't be on this evening in Belle Haven.

The cruel soccer gods granted their favor on the opponent rather than the home team, fickle as they are known to be. But from another perspective, perhaps they evened out the score for the victors on the night.

Manager Pam Scott said before the match it surprised her to realize that the Equestrian States had never made it to the final of a major senior team tournament, and given their impressive stature, probably surprises many others as well.

One of the reporters sitting next to me in the press box remarked at the end of the 90 minutes that Equestria always seem to find a way to lose games they should win when get to this stage in tournaments; 45 minutes later, when the excruciating penalty shootout was over, she managed a wan smile. "What did I read here the other day before the quarterfinals, flip a coin when it goes to penalties? A shame for your bunch, because they really did play a superb tactical match."

For the second time in succession, the Ponies eliminate Baker Park from the AOCAF, and for the second time, the Commonwealth stood toe to toe with one of the best teams in the multiverse, only to be let down in the lottery of penalty shootouts, the previous occasion being in the World Cup where they fell to...Cosumar, who will be the final opponent when they arrive to contest the third place match at Keller Field. The Vanquishers will come into the match with the same emotions that BP will have, coming so far only to fall short.

It's often the little things that sum up the bigger picture, like Aaron Aiza taking to a knee to console his Hondo FC teammate Annabeth Westmoreland, then helping her to her feet, after which they shared an embrace; Brix Hamilton making a similar show of commiseration to Veronica Navarro, while Pristine Shine exchanged shirts with Derick Briggs, who had followed in the striker's shadow the entire night; Equestria captain Cloudchaser going to shake with each of Baker's Park's players, and getting many congratulatory words for her getting a chance to close out her career in the best way possible.

Through it all, the next generation of players who will make up the nucleus of the national team for years to come have shown they are up to the task; this certainly will not be the peak of what they can hope to achieve, but possibly a seminal moment in what has already been a substantial advancement for the country in the sport.

[Banija]

Banijans defeat top ranked Cosumar 4-2 to qualify for AOCAF LVIII Final


Banijan players celebrate Okonkwo Okparro(#10) scoring the game's final goal in 4-2 thriller

HOIMA, ANKOLE- The Banijans, prepared for their first ever AOCAF semifinal, and this one on home soil, to doubt, came out not dressed in their usual green to face the Azure Dragons, but they came decked out in orange. And the stadium was prepared. Except in the 10,000 strong Cosumarite fan section in the South end of the stadium, the other 65,000 people in the stadium were given free orange t shirts, for an ‘orange out’. Aesthetically pleasing on television, but most commonly seen in a different code of football(specifically, gridiron), it is something visual that serves to amplify home field advantage. And with a berth in the AOCAF LVIII Final on the line, and the chance to get revenge against a team that can only be known as a burgeoning rival in Cosumar, that is what the association was going for. And wow, what a turnout in Hoima for this one, right? An electric atmosphere- one filled with hope ,with the noise of banging drums all day long, as the fans waited for what was Banija’s biggest match ever, to date.

As the public address announcer boomed the names of the starting XI for both sides, the anthems started. The Banijans, of course, respectfully listened to the Cosumarite anthem, as the section in blue in the south end of the stadium sang loudly and proudly. And when the Banijan anthem came, the noise was almost deafening. A local artist was given the opportunity to sing the anthem, and he belted it. Abate Brehanu, who would only be able to watch the proceedings helplessly, as he was suspended for this match due to his red card in the quarterfinal, sang it with lots of passion from the bench. All kinds of big names were in attendance- BSL Commissioner Randolf Cherry, Herzegovina City manager Brian Emerson, Banijan national gridiron team quarterback Isaka Jawara, all were there together, all wearing orange. What a game this would be, right?

From the get go, the Banijans went after the game. They felt as if they sat back too much last time they played Cosumar, and with the home support, they felt as if they needed to go out and take this game to the visitors. When Namakula Kawesa, who had two goals in the quarterfinal, hit the crossbar in the 2nd minute, everyone here knew that the Banijans meant business. It wouldn’t be long before they would be able to break down the Cosumarites, and that they did. In about the 15th minute, a Kawesa through ball to Gitonga Kahara was received, and crossed to Assefa Yitebarke. The striker, who had a step on the defender, was able to head the ball back towards the post where it came from, and the Crisisbless(not to be confused for Crisisbless United, where Alanso Tamba plays) goalkeeper Shjegrzh Na’Kefir did not have a chance, as the Cosumar #1 watched the ball go into the back of the net and hear the stadium explode at the goal. What a goal it was, and a deserving goalscorer in Yitebarke.

But this is Cosumar. Just because you blow the roof off the stadium, even though the section wearing blue directly behind the goal did not react, does not mean they’ll get rattled. They’ve been doing this for too long, they are far too established, too experienced, to get overwhelmed in a situation like this. They composed themselves, Alexander Pearce, the manager, managed to calm his team’s nerves in this crazy atmosphere, and slowly, yet surely Cosumar started to push back at the Banijans. Romikk Valgard, the star striker for the Vanquishers, had a left footed strike from about 15 yards that forced a spectacular diving save from Lemuel Bereket. And then, of course, VZR, the other supremely talented striker for the Cosumarites, had a volley on a cross from Tidesson that allowed her to beat the goalkeeper, but saw her just miss the net as the ball was literal inches from being the equalizing goal. But in the 32nd minute, Bryger Tidesson, the Cosumarite superstar, and the slayer of Banijan dreams in AOCAF LVII, beat a series of Banijan defender on the dribble, but the ball was saved in a one on one. It went out for a corner kick. And from the set piece, the Banijan defenders were slow to react, and VZR beat her man to the ball. Vega Zeale-Riddick smashed the ball towards the near post with her head, and Bereket didn't have a chance of saving it. It was a goal for Cosumar, and It was 1-1. And now, of course, Cosumar had the momentum.

Cosumar continued to take the game to their Banijan hosts, and quite a few times, they threatened to take the lead. Tidesson was certainly feeling it, and Lemuel Bereket, the Banijan #1, was forced to make some saves. And still, he got a little bit lucky, as he will attest to himself. VZR, who spent nearly the entire half picking on Kawsu Kaba, had an opportunity herself, from about 20 yards, where she forced an outstretched Lemuel Bereket to make a save. The Vanquishers had the Banijans right where they wanted them- on their heels, absorbing pressure. They were picking on the weak link of the defense, Kaba, as the usual starter, Brehanu, watched helplessly from the bench, suspended thanks to his red card against Mriin. A few minutes of sustained pressure led to another corner kick for Cosumar in the 41st minute, and the ball was swung in, looking for a Cosumarite head to rise above the others. However, it was a powerful Bereket fist that saw the ball, and it went upfield. Who did it go to? Namakula Kawesa. She turned around with the ball, and played it up the sideline to a streaking Chibuzo Afolayan. The break was on. The AFC Corvistone winger received the ball, and beat a defender on the dribble, and had a one on one with the goalkeeper. He slotted the ball home towards the far post, and just like that, even though Cosumar had largely been the better side, the Banijans still went into the half, up 2-1.

Cosumar came out like gangbusters in the second half. They knew that they did not deserve to be trailing, and for the next 15 minutes, this Vanquishers side was dominant on the ball. Once again, it was Bryger Tidesson, the star midfielder for the Cosumarite offense, who was doing a lot of creation. Now, of course, you think, why didn’t the Pristina Shine strategy show here? Well, mostly because after using it against Solara Vol in their quarterfinal against Mriin, too many players were hanging onto yellow cards. And Banija’s central midfielders simply could not hang with Bryger Tidesson for a lot of this game. He created opportunities for strikers like VZR, for players like Valgard, and the Banijans did not have a chance. When, in the 60th minute, Tidesson was pulled down by Kawesa, and a free kick was forced, there was only one thing that was going to happen. With the Cosumar fans now behind Bereket, a couple of Cosumar players stood over the ball. Isla Sibučić ran up and gave it quite the strike, and buried the bending free kick into the top corner. It was the much deserved equalizer, and the fans wearing blue jumped for joy, as Cosumar’s players ran to celebrate with their fans.

Marcus Waters knew that he needed to make an adjustment, or else this game would slip away from him. Marcus Waters, for Banija, has never been afraid to make a bold personnel decision, and he saw his central midfielders struggling to contain Tidesson. After that goal, he made some risky changes. Kawsu Kaba simply wasn’t cutting it on the pitch. You know, such a talented center back, who puts in consistent performances for his club- but why not for his country? That will have to be explored later. Abraham Godefai came in for him, and even though he’s usually a left back, was asked to play center back. Ablie Kah also came off, in favor of Kiggwe Basamula. A pair of changes that they he hoped would spark this side, especially on defense, and it did. As the Cosumar onslaught came, the fresh legs played much better. Stepping in front of passes, not getting beat on the dribble, sticking with their runners- almost a difference of night and day in the back.

The Banijans, at this point, were starting to really feel their way back into this game. It was 2-2, not much time to go, and everything to play for- a berth in the final. A return to the final, for Cosumar, and a first ever berth, for Banija. The motivations were high, and the tension in this game was rising. And then, of course, a sight that not many expected. Okonkwo Okparro, who had been named to the bench for this game, walked up to be substituted on. After the game, he told us about his motivation to stay in game shape. “Just watching the team, sitting there, is so painful. I have a lot to contribute to the Kadongo Kamu, and we’ve had a magical run so far. I want to do everything I can to help this team, to help my country, reach heights that we’ve never been to in this sport, and fortunately, I was in a position to do so.”

Okparro came onto the pitch for Kawesa, and came out to a thunderous applause from the Hoima crowd. And as the momentum swung back towards the home side, there were a few opportunities for the Banijans to break the deadlock. Kiggwe Basamula, hit a rebound from about 25 yards, but he hit the ball way over the net. But that was just the first one. Kahara forced the Cosumar #1 to make a save with his feet, and even Afolayan was able to chip the goalkeeper on a breakaway, but a goal line clearance from the Cosumar captain, Stig Söderquist, kept the game tied at 2. Neither team wanted to be the one to concede, and yet, both teams were trying to score. But in the 83rd minute, the Banijans finally broke through. Assefa Yitebarke had a free header, and headed the ball towards net. IT was saved by the Cosumarite goalkeeper, but there was a rebound. After an attempted clearance went straight to the feet of Kizza Okafor, he stepped to the right, and fired home from about 12 yards. It went into the back of the net, and an explosion of noise from the Banijan fans as he celebrated with the sea of orange in this stadium.

And now, Cosumar was looking for an equalizer. They would push forward, but it would be Banija, playing back, that would be able to slam the door in their face. A well timed tackle on Isla Sibučić by Basamula gave the Banijans the opportunity to go the other way. Going forward with numbers, Afolayan was able to beat a defender on the dribble, and then passed the ball to Okparro, in the middle. One on one with the goalkeeper, the substitute smashed the ball home, to give Banija a 4-2 lead in the 86th minute. At that point, the party was on. Banija held on for the win, and the celebration began in Hoima. Players hugging each other, and applauding fans. Players exchanging jerseys. What a moment it was.

Who would be Banija’s next opponent? As fate would have it, there would be one nation standing between Banija and their first ever major tournament trophy- and that nation would be none other than Banija’s archrivals, the Equestrian States- also looking for their first major tournament trophy. There will be a first time winner of this historic trophy crowned at the Stadium of the Restoration on Sunday. But which squad will it be? This fierce rivalry will now be played on a stage never seen before. It will make fans nervous everywhere, and yet, so excited. Equestria, of course, is 5-0-0 against Banija. And yet, none of that matters at the Stadium of the Restoration. All those losses will be wiped out if Banija can win a trophy in this massive title tilt. When you play your archrival in a game that is the first major tournament final for both sides, it is simply the game you cannot lose. Can Banija finally overcome Equestria and be crowned Kings of Atlantian Oceania?

We’ll talk about that more in our preview. But regardless, enjoy this moment now. We’re in a final! We’re in a final on home soil! Who can’t enjoy that?

[Equestrian States]

-AOCAF CUP LVIII - SEMIFINALS-
Gentle Breeze Lifts Ponies into AOCAF Final
Equestrians defeat hosts Baker Park on penalties to reach first ever AOCAF Cup Final
by Steve McNotapony

Baker Park (2) 0-0 (4) Equestria
at Keller Field in Belle Haven, Baker Park
Attendance: 59,387
Scoring:
No Scoring
Penalties:
BKP Penalties: J. Bozeman [0-0], V. Navarro [1-1], A. Westmoreland [1-2], S. Patton [2-3]
EQS Penalties: Pristina Shine [0-1], Rosewing [1-2], Rainbow Blitz [1-3], Cloudchaser [2-4]

BELLE HAVEN, Baker Park - It took 120 minutes and four rounds of penalty kicks, but Equestria is finally heading to its first-ever major tournament Final after a tense semifinal victory against co-hosts Baker Park in front of a sold-out Keller Field.

The fixture was a rematch of last year's AOCAF Cup quarterfinal meeting between the Bees and Ponies in which goals from Aarón Aiza and Luminesce propelled the Equestrians to a 2-0 win en route to a fourth-place finish at the tournament. However, unlike in Vidial, the Ponies were unable to break down a determined Baker Park back line that was determined to deny the Equestrians the chance to defend a lead no matter the cost. As a result, the hosts accumulated a sizable collection of fouls and bookings which likely put an end to any chance they had of winning this tournament's Fair Play award. Perhaps the Bees drew inspiration from the Banijans' preferred strategy of physically assaulting the Ponies players whenever they so much as looked at the ball.

Regardless, the Equestrians still looked more likely to score than the Baker Parkers for much of the 120 minutes of play, as goalkeeper Kyle Moyer was forced to make a number of saves. Aarón Aiza came close to scoring in the 24th minute, beating defender Derick Briggs in the air to a corner from Cloudchaser that left Moyer rooted in her spot, only to watch the ball rebound off the woodwork for Tracy Vasillias to clear out. Pristina Shine and Rainbow Blitz, meanwhile, forced a series of saves from Moyer late in the first half as the Ponies pressed hard to take the lead before the whistle blew, the closest coming in the second minute of added time when Moyer got the tip of her glove to a rocket from the Ponies' striker that narrowly went over the crossbar.

As the match pressed on, the Bees were clearly struggling to keep the pace with a relentless Equestrian side that is known for wearing down opponents. However, the hosts would actually have the best chance of the second half in the 73rd minute when substitute Sabrina Patton was played through on the counterattack by Veronica Navarro, setting up a one-on-one with Gentle Breeze. Fortunately, the Ponies' world-class goalkeeper put her own skills on display, first stopping Patton's shot and then reacting quickly to smother the rebound.

Sensing the weariness of the Baker Park team, Equestrian manager Pearly White brought on forward Rosewing late in the half and switched to the Ponies' more traditional 3-5-2 formation. For the remainder of the half and well into the following period of extra time, the match was absolutely dominated by the Equestrians as the Baker Parkers desperately tried to force the match into the virtual coin-flip that is a penalty shootout. A pair of goal line clearances from Sarah Foreman and Tony Santos kept the score level through 120 minutes, the latter coming in the final minute of extra time off of Gentle Breeze, who was called forward to give the Ponies an extra player in the box.

However, while a penalty shootout might typically be effectively a toss-up, that calculus changes significantly when one of the teams involved can call upon the services of the multiverse's best goalkeeper. Gentle Breeze might have been outshone by Kyle Moyer during regulation, but on penalties the pegasus left no doubts as to which was the better keeper. Stopping shots from midfielders Jamari Bozeman and Annabeth Westmoreland, Gentle Breeze put the Ponies in excellent position to exorcise the remaining demons from their defeat against Valanora in the Third Place Playoff at the last AOCAF Cup. In the end, it was veteran midfielder and team captain Cloudchaser who stepped to the spot with the chance to end the match and send the Ponies through to their first AOCAF Final. Kyle Moyer guessed the right direction, but Clouchaser's shot was placed perfectly in the top left corner and Moyer had no chance of reaching it.

After a wild but brief celebration, the Ponies' stars consoled their distraught counterparts, before returning to the locker room to continue the celebration. In Canterlot, the area around Royal Equestria Stadium, which had hosted a watch party, was a sea of purple and orange, as Ponies supporters rejoiced at finally clearing the semifinal hurdle after falling just short at the same stage last year against Cosumar.

AOCAF CUP LVIII - SEMIFINALS RESULTS
 Baker Park (2) 0–0 (4) Equestria 
@ Keller Field in Belle Haven, BKP
 Banija 4–2 Cosumar 
@ Mavuto Field in Hoima, BNJ

Meanwhile, at Hoima's Mavuto Field, co-hosts Banija continued what has been a truly impressive tournament from the Kadongo Kamu with a 4-2 win against AOCAF Cup 57 runners-up Cosumar. The Banijans took the lead twice in the first half of their semifinal, only for the Cosumarites to equalize each time, before finally pulling away in the final ten minutes with a pair of goals from Kizza Okafor and Okonkwo Okparro. The Kadongo Kamu thus enter the AOCAF Cup Final with a perfect 6-0-0 record, having outscored their opponents at the tournament by a remarkable 17-8 margin. However, awaiting the Banijans in the Final will be the Equestrians and their equally impressive defense which has allowed just one goal in their six matches, an ultimately meaningless late strike to Farfadillis in the quarterfinals.

AOCAF CUP LVIII FINAL

 Banija vs. Equestria 
The Stadium of the Restoration
Busukuma, Banija
.

Just one match remains at the 58th AOCAF Cup: the Final, to be contested by Equestria and Banija. Arguably Atlantian Oceania's fiercest rivals at the moment, the Equestrians and Banijans will both be battling for their first-ever regional championship, adding yet another layer of importance to what is a hard-fought fixture even when contested as a 'friendly'. The Ponies have totally dominated the Kadongo Kamu since their first meetings during the World Cup 79 cycle, including high-profile victories at the group stages of the 80th World Cup and the 56th AOCAF Cup, but every previous match pales in comparison to the one which will take place later this week in Busukuma. It is not hyperbole to suggest that this is the most important fixture in the history of either participating team, meaning that tensions between Equestria and Banija will likely be at their highest since the two Southwestern nations were actually at war.

[Banija]

She'll make you take your clothes off when you're dancing in the rain...

She'll make you live your crazy life and she'll take away your pain!

With a cutoff for third place!

[pre]Third Place Match
Baker Park 4–2 Cosumar[/pre

Congratulations to the bronze medalists, and comiserations to the loser. Thank you for your participation!

[Banija]

Kabaka - King
Luguba - Queen Consort
Sarauniya - Queen Mother
Isebantu - Crown Prince
Omugabe/Omugaba - Prince/Princess
Omulangira/Kyabazinga - Duke/Duchess
Kagere/Kiweewa - Lord/Lady
Katikkiro - Prime Minister
Waziri - Foreign Minister

The scene is set at the Stadium of the Restoration, the facility rebuilt for World Cup 81 that rests on the spirtual home of the Banijan monarchy, and serves as the new spirtual home for Banijan sport.

Kabaka Mwanga was standing next to his wife, Luguba Katrina. His mother, Sarauniya Iriama, was standing behind him. The RBSA Executive Chairman, and AOCAF LVIII Host Committee Co-Chairman Adama Sowe, was standing there as well. There were assorted diplomats and executives among them. The head of state of the Commonwealth of Baker Park, Michael Gregson, was there alongside the host committee's other Co-Chairman, and the Executive Director of the FOotball Association of the Commonwealth, David Carlson. There were other big dignataries as well. The President of the Echani Republic, Revan Bennett, was in the building, and representatives from the Quebecois Commonwealth were there as well. The Katikkiro, Makoni, was in the VIP seating area as well. And, of course, the highest ranking princesses from the Equestrian States, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Quite awkward- a higher ranking dignitary than an Ambassador had not visited Banija from the Equestrian States since the war.

Kabaka Mwanga held his wife's hand tightly throughout the Olga Vrbic and Duje Simunic rendition of Last Chance. What a powerful song it was- And his wife, of course, could not be helped but brought to tears. The two had been through so much together. The sudden violent death of his father, and then, there is no time to mourn if you're a royal- the immediate assumption of responsibilities for the Kingdom. And when they went off, the rest of the ceremony continued. The traditional dance of Banijans, the Bakisimba Dance, was the next part of the ceremony.

It was beautiful. Women were dressed in the colors of the national team- some in green, some in white, and some in orange. There was 200 women in that stadium, doing the dance for the well over 90,000 in the building, and millions more watching from across Atlantian Oceania and beyond, doing the dance. There was about 50 men with drums in the stadium, playing to the beat, in perfect rhythm with one another. It was quite the herculean effort, and they were pulling it off. This caused Kabaka Mwanga to smile- what an opportunity to showcase Banijan culture to the world, was it not?

Then, of course, came the time for another traditional dance. This time, the colors of all 32 nations were represented here. There were 64 men, each wearing the home and away jersey of the 32 sides in the tournament. They were here for the indlondlo dance, another important culture dance in Banija. The Banijans, of course, knew the dance, adn many in the crowd chanted as they did it. The dance troupe leader, of course, was wearing the Banijan green, the same jersey that they'd be wearing in today's final.

After the two dances, came the video on the big screen. It was a highlight video, one that got fans ready for the game. Showed some of the best goals, and the best tackles, of the tournament. And, of course, showed some of the lasting highlights of the semifinals, in particular. Showed a pair of saves that Gentle Breeze made, in the semifinal at Keller Field, and the joyous Equestrian celebrations at their official watch party in Canterlot. And, of course, it showed Banijan reactions to Okparro's goal in Banija, and bars and town centers throughout the country.

And then, of course, came to a zoom in on the trophy. It showed the celebrations of Farfadillis in Mriin, and then it said the simple words- who will bring home the trophy this time? And then, of course, it went to a recorded video from the RBSA Executive Chairman, Adama Sowe. "Thank you all for coming for this great final, between Banija and the Equestrian States. This game, for both sides, no matter what happens, will live on in memory forever. All the marbles, played at the beautiful Stadium of the Restoration. It is an honor, and a privilege, to have the successful hosting of the AOCAFs be my final and lasting legacy as Executive Chairman of the RBSA."

The Kabaka, then, of course, rose in a round of applause for Adama Sowe. There was a thunderous round of applause- the nearly 72,000 fans wearing green all gave him an applause. Of course, the 20,000 tickets that were reserved for Equestrian were all taken, and they had taken over their corner of the stadium, decked in purple for what would be an electric final. The Kabaka then got up, knowing that the ceremony was over- it would be time to take their seats in the suite soon. He went over and shook everyone's hand, all of the dignitaries there. The cameras picked up at his shaking hands with Princesses Celestia and Luna- the first time this had happened between the Banijan head of state and an Equestrian government official, since the war. That would play in the papers, wouldn't it?

But as the dignataries made their way to the royal suite, it took about 15 minutes to get them all up there. ANd once that happened, the pitch was cleared and ready for play. Both teams walked on, with that look in their eyes, of focused nerves, of wanting to win a final for their country. Next door, the suite was very loud and rowdy- it was reserved for the Sporting World Cup champions, the Usana Kadongo Kamu, Banija's U18 squad who had recently triumphed in FFR. They were being given a suite at this match as a reward for winning the Sporting World Cup. And the Kabaka, himself, was nervous. Not for the event- he was more than convinced that these dignatires together would be fine. But would he watch Chibuzo Afolayan lift the trophy? Or would he watch Princesses Celestia and Luna celebrate in his own suite, and see Adama Sowe and David Carlson hand the trophy to Cloudchaser instead?

He would find out soon enough. All of Atlantian Oceania was watching to see who would be crowned its champion, with two entire countries on edge- which one would win the cup?

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

OOC: firstly I want to wish the finalists the best of luck. I want to thank Banija for his guidance in this first time for me hosting a major event, and thanks to all of the participants. It has been my privilege to be entrusted with the duties for our regions most important event. And so without further ado, lets have an appropriate cutoff for a championship match!

The referee, Ms Kalaan of Mriin, looks at her watch. And it's all over! The final of the 58th AOCAF has crowned a first time champion!

Banija 2–4 Equestrian States

Congratulations to the champions, commiserations to the runners up, and thank you from Busukuma. Good night!

[Banija]

Kabaka - King
Luguba - Queen Consort
Sarauniya - Queen Mother
Isebantu - Crown Prince
Omugabe/Omugaba - Prince/Princess
Omulangira/Kyabazinga - Duke/Duchess
Kagere/Kiweewa - Lord/Lady
Katikkiro - Prime Minister
Waziri - Foreign Minister

The scene is set at the Stadium of the Restoration, immediately after the final, at the trophy ceremony on a makeshift stage.

The Banijan squad was walking up to the podium, to receive their silver medals. The fans seats were still full, as the Banijans cheered their team on its way to their first ever medals at a major tournament. RBSA Executive Chairman, and AOCAF LVIII Host Committee Co-Chairman Adama Sowe, had the microphone.

"I would like to congratulate the Kadongo Kamu on a job well done!" He said. "We have done something that has not been seen in this tournament, most likely since its early stages. The quarterfinals in each of our first three appearances, and making the final of the region's most prestigious trophy. And, of course, in the same year, having our league champions reach the final of the AOCL- what a run of success that we've had this year. While there is always pain in losing a final, history will look at this one with a smile. What a magical run through this tournament, where the team managed to unite Banija. Young and old, believer and pagan, men and women. What a ride you have taken this country on." And he put the silver medal on the shoulders of every Banijan player, and coach.

"It is now my pleasure to allow David Carlson the stage." And there was cheering as the other host committee Co-Chairman, David Carlson, stepped up.

"This trophy by the Equestrian States is most well deserved." He began with. "One of the tournament's most historic runs. They went 5-2-0 in this tournament, and put in big time performances against the region's toughest opponents. They had a group with two teams in the Top 8, and there was no complaints of a tough draw- they went out and won a group with both Krytenia and Eshan. They beat 95X in the first knockout round. Then, they took on the defending champions, Farfadillis, with no fear, and won 2-1. They then took on one of the co-hosts, my own country, Baker Park, in the semifinals, and won on penalties. They took on the other co-host, Banija, right here tonight, and won. Nobody can say that they didn't deserve this trophy, and that they weren't tested. Winning those three games, in a row like that, two of them functionally away games, shows that Equestria is truly a deserving champion, and is the class of Atlantian Oceania."

And then, of course, he gave each person their winners medal. They stood on the podium, as David Carlson and Adama Sowe both grabbed the trophy. They both, on either side of the trophy, handed it over, placing it in the hooves of Cloudchaser. They stepped back as the celebrations of the AOCAF began. And Adama Sowe, his job done, slipped quietly off the stage and into the night, knowing that his own professional career, was over.

OOC note: Hey guys! Thanks for letting Baker and I co-host the AOCAFs! I had a ton of fun, and what a run. EQS, you're absolutely deserving of finally winning a trophy in this sport, so congratulations to your championship. Until next time y'all