Copa D'Aeia 2019 (closed RP, AEIA ONLY)

[Romellenic Federation]

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[Navack]

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It Doesn't Strike Twice!

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The Navish football national team started off great in the 2019 Copa. Unlike last year’s performance against the same opponent, the Mardin Isles, Navack trashed the islanders by a fat score of 5-0. It was a great win by the purples since Qal’eh, Navack’s direct opponent for the first place, had a 5-1 win over Juznia. The purples managed to outscore the eagles and now remains as the first in the group with a goal difference of +5. Navack’s next duty is against Juznia; considered to be the weakest team in the group, the match against Juznia shall be a training ground for new experiments by Odd Sannes.

As for the game, Navack did not fear the Isles and showed them they would not stand back. The first goal kick came in the 3rd minute, after a few passes were exchanged and Jørgen Hammer send a through pass to Halvorsen, who overlapped the wing and right footed shot from the left corner of the box. 3 minutes later, in a counter-attack by Navack, Hammer crossed the ball to Nesz in the penalty mark who headed the ball in for the first goal. After that, Navack kept on pressuring the Mardin Isles, who built a strong defensive system and was managing to stop the Purple’s attempts. In the 32nd minute, however, a fast pass exchange ended in Jørgen Hammer’s feet, dribbling two defenders and going into the area. He right footed shot in the top right corner of the post to score Navack 2-0. in the 43rd minute, a wall from Nesz left Johansen in a 1v1 against the goalkeeper, who scored Navack 3-0.

Noticing the pace of the game and chance to pass Qal’eh due to goal difference, Odd Sannes risked and made a substitution to increase the offensive power of Navack. During half-time the coach took Vegbar Nerby off to put Adreas Stennes, attacking mid-fielder. From then on Navack started to play mainly in an offensive 4-3-3 formation, having 2 attacking midfielders (Johansen and Stennes) approaching the area. The game started off mild, with Navack retreating a little and letting Mardin play. After a dangerous shot saved by Ken Bruer, Sannes realized that the team was losing its defensive power, specially on the left side. In the 60th minute, Ulrik Truelsen entered in the place of Jørgen Hammer, whose tiredness started to compromise the Navish defense. It did not take 5 minutes of Truelsen’s participation for him to find low cross in the box, finding Nesz who volleyed the ball in to score Navack 4-0. The final goal came from a free-kick by Johansen on the 82nd minute.

The current situation of the Purples is the best: due to goal difference, Navack is now the leader of the group E, with 3 points with 5 goals scored and none taken. Navack’s next fixture is Juznia, who is considered to be the weakest team in the group. As for the logic, Sannes might use this chance to test different options with Vetle Hildrum and Abraham Amanuel. As for the Mardin Isles, their task is much harder: the Sifhari side of Qal’eh. This game matters to Navack as the Mardin Isles is the only team capable of taking points away from Qal’eh, which would assist the Purples immensely in the run for the first place.

[Lopimina]

[Juznia]

[Navack]

Despite the defeat, the Mauwese squad was very cheerful during the training session this morning. The leopards had a good start against Aleia, winning by a 1-0 score. However, they were not so lucky against the strong Goulonguese team; the Yidaoan team beat Mawusi 3-0.

The weather was mild and slightly sunny, with a cold breeze blowing, unlike the hot and humid conditions of the Mawusi’s climate. With 2 days prior the game, the Batisurian head coach Erco de Bruyn wanted to practice the tactical moves that the team might use in the game against Ajerrin. After the defeat against Goulong, de Bruyn thinks that it might be better to switch to a formation less offensive than the 3-4-3, as their opponent is known for having strong, fit, and aggressive players.

With his players in a room in the Akademik training center, the head coach opens up a slide show to demonstrate and explain the new strategies.

de Bruyn: “Alright, so here is the deal: In the last match, our defense got outnumbered by the attacking 6 of Goulong, which prejudiced our game plan and although our midfield had more people to keep possession, our defense had way to many gaps. We might abdicate from the super offensive side now against Ajerrin and focus a little more in the security of possession and defense compactness.”

de Launay: “So are you suggesting us a different scheme or are we keeping the 3 defenders formation?:

de Bruyn: “Right, good question, Launny. We are keeping the 3 defenders, however i want our midfield to have 5 players instead of 4. We will have one of you supporting de Launay at the entrance of the area. The changes won't be big. We have done that during the course of a few games and we might change back to the 3-4-3 depending on the result of the game.”

Duval: “So i’m supposing one of us (attacking trio) will have to start on the bench?”

de Bruyn: “Yes. I want was to practice today the attacking duo with Shani as the terminal striker and you, Duval, fluctuating behind him as a second. Besides that, Kubo (Asari-Dokubo), you will centralize and fall back to a defensive midfielder position. We will need you with coverage, as de Launay will be already assisting the transition to the attack. With that, Beno will stay in the right-center and we will have Madaki starting in the left-center supporting Mshindi.”

After some more discussion, the squad went to the field where they warmed up and trained for some good minutes. Towards the end of the training, the team got ready for an attack vs defense drill where the team will simulate attacking occasions while the other portion of the team will simulate Ajerrin’s defensive system.

de Launay whistled to call the whole team’s attention.

“Alright, fellows, here is the deal. If you score more than 3 goals on us, the whole round of rakija is on me!” The team cheered and clapped, as if the captain was doing some sort of heroic action.

After the training was over, the attacking team managed to score 5 times: Shani and Duval scored twice and Beno closed the score. de Launay knew then that his bank account was going have a tough night. However, the captain was also proud of his team’s performance, especially the two boys on the attack. On the way to the bar, de Launay sat by the goalkeeper, Hami Yar’Adua.

de Launay: “You know, Hami, those boys give me hope. Both of you and I know how hard it is for us to get anywhere in competitions like this.”

Yar’Adua: “Of course it is! We usually carry those sweet illusions from when we play in Majula, you know? But everything up here is so different… We are so strong there, but because all we have are Batisuria and Habasha!”

de Launay: “I know… Imagine if we get to play against teams like Midrasia or Navack? Not to mention the hosts themselves. I just feel like this new generation will give us good things, you know? It’s nice to see them growing and playing outside of Majula.”

Yar’Adua: “I agree. Although I love my country, we all know that the only decent place for them to play there is Batisuria but even to a certain extent. We gotta help those boys, cap (de Launay). They are our future. We can see Batisuria already progressing and Habasha starting to form their ground! We gotta move our arses as well.”

de Launay: “Next game will be tough. I don’t think they have played such a hard opponent like Ajerrin but i do believe we can take this one, fam.”

Yar’Adua: “Oh,we are here! Let’s move, cap?

de Launay: “Not gonna lie, it is way too cold for me! Do you remember that bar we used to go on the Coast Highway, in Port? Those were good times, Hami.”

Yar’Adua: “Well, I won’t lie, I miss our weather down there, but thankfully my captain will pay me and my boys some rounds of rakija!”

[Lopimina]

Ali Zarqan @AliZarqan Extremely sorry to the fans that I couldn't perform in our crucial game. Training hard to perform well against Navack. #EqabHa 22:56 - 01 Jul 2019 1,523Rechirps9,172Likes

IQH Sports @IQHSports Odds for Qal'eh to progress through the group stage now at 10/1. Odds for the Mardin Isles to progress are 8/1, big change needs to happen within the Qalehi team if they want to secure progression. #Copa2019 #QALvNAV 23:00 - 01 Jul 2019 1,027Rechirps6,726Likes

Fazel Eftekhar @FazelIQH Insider sources are telling IQH that 18-year-old prodigy Marco Freixa will not be resigning with current club Borar. Borar have limited time to transfer him or risk losing him for nothing. Freixa is linked heavily with Veleazan club Unionistas. 23:05 - 01 Jul 2019 9,182Rechirps37,192Likes

[Fahran]

Fahrani hooligans celebrate narrow victory over Renneque.

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Fahran gains a shock win in the first match of the Copa

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After a nail bitingly close match last night that saw Renneque's Nicolas Esau send a cracker flying over the net in the 7th minute of play, the Fahrani Men's National Team managed to pull off a surprise upset when Mahmadu Baboukkar put the Falcon's up by one following a foul by Arnau Urgeles in the 81st minute. Worse still for Les Manchots, the denial of a clear goal scoring opportunity saw Urgeles sent off for yellow card accumulation, ruling the veteran out for future matches in Group H. By this time, both squads were exhausted and had used up all their substitutions, but that didn't stop Pasdar's men from celebrating with fans who began to sing "Our Talons Outstretched!" and resume chants of "Baboukkar is fire! Your defense is afraid!" as soon as the goal had registered.

A steely nerved Baboukkar squares up for a penalty kick

The elation of the fans was clearly earned in this instant, as both sides created many scoring opportunities throughout a tense and competitive game. Just two minutes after Esau tested aging goalkeeper Mohammed Dualeh, Renneque's captain Sinchi almost capitalized on a precise cross by Jaïr Blade to propel Les Manchots into an early lead. A sloppy stop by Dualeh and a swift clearance by Girna, who would clash with Blade throughout the match, are all that averted disaster. Baboukkar, El Tamera, and Ikhrami ostensibly took turns trying their luck against Pròsper Puerto, who handled their efforts with ease throughout the first half.

Things changed markedly in the second half, as El Tamera sent the ball barreling into the left-hand upper-ninety in the 68th minute, with deft goal-tending by Puerto thwarting the youngster. By the 75th minute, the weariness was beginning to show on both sides as Ferrodja went out for Yarib Hilal Hussein. Fans had in fact already begun filtering out of the stadium and into local pubs by the time Baboukkar put the Falcons up.

The result brought a good deal of exuberance on Chirpr with the hashtags #FHYF, #Mahmou, and #Copa2019 trending for Fahrani accounts and the usual bit of hooligan rowdiness occurring as ecstatic fans made merry and shouted chants. Several players, such as Rowis and El Tamera were seen interacting with the crowds, and one has to presume that they didn't buy their own drinks that night - and not just because Pasdar has stated that he'd bench anyone who defied his strict fitness regimen. An interview with the hero of the match revealed a slightly softer side to the celebrations. "I want to restore hope to the country," Mahmadu Baboukkar declared after a narrow win last night, "To show them that anything is possible and that the little guy won't be crushed by the giants of the world. To show them that hope is still alive in the world."

This early win puts the Falcons in a good position for the remainder of the group stages given that their next two opponents are considered among the weakest teams competing in the Copa. They'll face a young and energetic if somewhat inexperienced Timarbia in a week and a half, giving Pasdar's men plenty of time for rest and relaxation. One can only assume that the Qalehi coach has a scheme cooked up to deal with the aggression we can expect from the Warriors.

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- Fahrani hooligans serenade Romellean model
- Ali Zarqan apologizes to fans after Lions fall to Mardin Isles
- Newrey throttles Habasha as Haywood nets a brace

[Romellenic Federation]

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[Midrasia]

Marcel Belou

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CRUNCH TIME FOR MIDRASIA

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The team in training ahead of their second game of the tournament against Veleaz

Sredec, Romellea ‒ Tensions are running high within the camp of the Midrasian national football team today as they prepare for their upcoming game against Veleaz. The two teams have not met on the football field since the mid-1980s when a so-called 'reconciliation' match, supposed to mark the normalisation of relations between the two countries was played. The upcoming Copa clash between the two sides looks set to be a refresh of this 'reconciliation' as both nations emerge from the recent conflict. The monumental nature of this game however, at least from a Midrasian perspective, is mostly being overshadowed by recent struggles within the group stages. The recent 3-all draw against Vrnallia, viewed by many as the weakest team within group F, has put the team's plans of qualification from the group into doubt. Midrasia now looks set to need results against both Veleaz and Chokashia if they want any hope of progressing.

Manager Pere Clar has remained notably quiet following the draw against Vrnallia. Clar was considerably non-plussed during interviews in the days after the game, though pointed out that the team "need to improve". During the game against Vrnallia, the defensive ability of both Desmarais and Crespi was criticised for allowing opposition forwards space on the wings, whilst midfielder Silvestre Satorras saw red for a rough challenge. Whilst the team's attacking players, particularly Lazaré and Qualquart seemed to be firing on all cylinders; many questions need to be asked of the team's defensive ability. Going into their match against Veleaz, Satorras will remain suspended, leading manager Clar to need to make a change. It is possible the manager could use Crozier in attacking midfield, though he is known to prefer playing on the wing. Subroux may be a more orthodox switch, though if he is feeling adventurous and looking to disrupt Veleaz's defensive ability, Clar could switch to a 4-2-3-1, deploying Lazaré, who is known for his ability in aiding the build-up, in the 10 and Hevre who has been very prolific as a lone striker for Ibbené, up-front. This novel approach could give Midrasia plenty of attacking ability with great interchangeability between the forward players, whilst also having solid ball-playing and ball-winning ability.

Despite there still being two games left to play in the group stage, with Midrasia still having every opportunity to qualify, questions have been asked about Clar's ability to manage the team. Oddsmakers have already published stakes for his successor, as also happened with Van Emerik after his 2017 opening day loss against Navack. When asked about this, the manager let out a little laugh, stating that it "does not warrant a response." When asked to clarify he stated: "These people only look to make money, everybody knows the rest of the country and the entire team is behind me, we can only do our best, nothing more." This however, did not quash rumours of discontent within the Midrasian camp, with allegations that a number of players are unhappy with Clar's demeanour and training regimes. Few of these rumours have been confirmed with no players voicing their concerns at least to the media.

On top of these struggles however, the players, managers, fans, and tournament organisers will all have to contend with a heated atmosphere within the stadium. Midrasia and Veleaz have been at each-others necks politically for the past almost-hundred years, but this match will mark the beginning of what many will hope to be a détente between the two rivals. Consul Portas tweeted earlier in the day that it is his hope that from now on "the rivalry between Midrasia and Veleaz may now play out on the sports field rather than the battlefield". Though if the previous battles between the two sides were a bloodbath, let us all hope that this is a more timid affair. Romellean authorities have already promised at least 3,000 police will be present at the match to retain law and order. Whilst there have been some arrests of Midrasian and Veleazan fans already, these have mostly been minor isolated incidents common among all sets of fans. Reports suggest that only one set of fans will be allowed to leave the stadium at a time after the match, minimising contact between the two groups. Segregated entrances will be used and there will be clear divisions between the fans. Nevertheless, there have been reports by Midrasian of Veleazans being surprisingly courteous, kind, and friendly. One Midrasian, Jérôme Génin says he is now "best mates" with a group of Veleazans who bought him drinks and paid for his taxi. Speaking earlier Génin said "Veleazans are all good blokes, we don't care about the politics, we're all just here to have a good time and enjoy the football. Let's forget the past and focus on the future, one were we can be friends".

[Goulong]

SOUTHWEST DAILY
Goulong clinch playoff berth with strong performance
Mak Hei Wah
Staff Writer
3 July 2019, 12:09 PM

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The Goulong squad celebrate a solid victory after the final whistle sounds

With two wins in two for the Undefeatables, Woo Ho-Lam's men have clinched themselves a place in the Round of 16 of the Copa D'Aeia with a game in hand, delighting Goulongese football fans who are delighted at the squad's ability to progress out of Group D, billed as the tournament's 'group of death'.

A solid 3-0 victory over strong opponents Mawusi at the Samarjansk Stadium on Thursday sealed Goulong's place in the playoffs as possession-based football once again reigned superior. Woo's selection of pacey wingers in Li Weihao and Huang Zhixiang, the surprise star of the Goulongese campaign, shuttled the ball from a solid defensive line into the attacking third with devastating speed. The Red and White kept 61% possession, showing that cutting-edge finishing was also necessary to claim a win. Woo's style of playing with a fast tempo from kickoff has caught many well-prepared squads off-guard, with a strong Mawusi side showing the same. With more than three times the passes of their opponents, Goulong kept their opponents from doing any real damage, limiting them to just a single shot on target.

Goulong's speedy counter-attacking football caught lower-tempo Mawusi on the back foot, as winger Li Weihao opened the scoring in the 11th minute, cutting into the box after a lengthy run from midfield and slotting it underneath the keeper from 12 yards. Teenage sensation Huang Zhixiang netted his second of the tournament after Chan Hoi Wah played a slicing through-ball to Huang, who got behind the defence to smash in Goulong's second in the 28th minute. Mawusi regrouped and held off two more shots from the Goulongese, utilising a pressing style to beat back the Red and White into their own half. Mawusi began to dominate the match and came closest to a goal with a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area which was parried away by Chan Hung Sze.

Woo made two substitutions at the half, bringing on ball-playing defender Cheung Wai Fung and complete forward Chiu Ngai Leung with the intention of playing a high-speed passing game. Goulong committed several turnovers at the beginning of the second half but a sturdy defensive line took care of any real trouble. Goulong finally started to find their groove again in the second half, and this manifested in a clear chance for striker Chiu, who instead squared the ball across for Li Weihao, resulting in a tap-in that put Goulong 3-0 up in the 68th minute.

After a couple of misses from either side the official brought the match to a close, 3-0 the final score-line. The celebrations from the Goulongese players on the pitch were visibly jubilant, as Manager Woo Ho-Lam was hoisted into the air by players and staff. The win sees Goulong qualify for a spot in the Round of 16 regardless of their result against Aleia, which will be played June 9th at the Lozinec Arena. Woo is expected to implement his full squad-rotation plan in order to keep his first-team fresh for the knockout stages.


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[Lopimina]

One night in Balchik
Do or die for the Qalehi team heading into crucial match
Youssef Razavian reporting from Balchik, Romellea
July 4, 2019

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Dara unhappy with a decision in the Mardin Isles game

Threat of elimination is high should Qal'eh fall to the Copa holders.

"The loss to the Mardin Isles was a shock to most, but it is important we remain focussed on what lies ahead." said manager Dara in a press conference on Tuesday. "The team are training hard and will give it 110% to ensure we get through." The Lions are in a spot that all fans dread to see them in - do or die in their crucial game against Navack. With Navack having essentially secured their advancement to the round of 16, with six points and a healthy +6 goal difference, the pressure in on the Qalehi team to try and secure the three points to secure their promotion. A one goal win would place Qal'eh on +4 goal difference, meaning the Mardin Isles would have to beat Juznia by nine goals to advance past the team, while also knocking Juznia out of the tournament completely. While a loss to Navack doesn't guarantee the Lions' knockout, Juznia would need to beat the Mardin Isles by a reasonable scoreline to see Qal'eh through - a result that many fans think is a little more likely following Juznia's 7-goal thriller against Navack where they fell 4-3 to the reigning champions. The fact of the matter is that Juznia have proven themselves worthy of upsetting a team, and with Qal'eh relying on the team to do just that - their progression could not have come at a more opportune time.

Navack is full to the brim with stardom and young talent and their team seems near unstoppable when scoring goals, having scored nine in their two group stage cames. Navish striker Nikodem Nesz, who hails from the island of Ostry, is considered one of the best, if not the best, striker in the world at the moment, and while Qal'eh is certainly not lacking in offensive power, their defensive prowess is yet to be proven, having not yet kept a clean sheet in the group stage. Many analysts are suggesting that Dara will start 25-year-old Riahi on the bench, bringing Freixa to the central striker position and putting Copa veteran and Qalehi legend Mohammed Reza Qanbari on the left, having been brought on as a substitute in the last two games as opposed to starting to give the young Freixa some playing time in what many thought were two safe games. It remains to be seen whether the young Qalehi squad will break under pressure, with contributions yet to be seen from Karim Mohebi and Iraj Riahi up front, the threat of being knocked out seems closer than ever.

[Vidoria]

Eliseo Altara @AltaraEliseo You can do it boys, beat the Brillianians like you did against Crylante! #VidVsBrill 03:10 pm - 4th Jul 2019 1,002Rechirps4,210Likes

Ella Sanchez @EllaHermosa Hope @Rico can do well against Crylante. Despite our rivalries, I still love you, my bro. #Sanchez #Copa2019 03:21 am - 1 Jul 2019 90Rechirps805Likes

Pablo Varabeño @PABLO I can definitely say that our game against Brilliania could prove to be difficult: however, despite our losses, we will not give up! Keep up the Vidorian spirit! #WeCanDoIt #VidVsBrill 09:08 am - 4 Jul 2019 2,354Rechirps10,913Likes

[Navack]

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The Big Man Shines Again!

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Navack's last challenge takes place July the 8th as the Purples play world champions Qal'eh at Primorski Stadium, Balchik. The national teams arrived in the city today, coming from a hard victory against Juznia. With two wins under their belt, Navack has secured their qualification for the next round, being allowed to even lose Monday's match. The Purples start their training today at Belomoretz main training facility.

The game against Juznia was, once again, another surprise against a "weaker" team. Hopes for an easy match were high since Navack trashed the Mardin Isles 5-0 in the first game. However, the Juznian side surprised with an early goal by Bronislovas Kūris on the 15' minute. Juznia took advantage of Abraham Amanuel's inexperience and explored the left side of their attack. The left winger Bronislovas Kūris was the Juznian best player. Vetle Hildrum also failed with his defensive duties, not giving the enough support to Amanuel. The second Juznian goal came in the 22' minute, scored by Bronislovas again. After the 30' minute, Navack started to control the game and with passes dictated the pace of the match. A cross in the box in the 43' minute saw Nikódem Nesz heading the ball into the net to discount for Navack 2-1.

The second half started with a substitution by Sannes, taking Amanuel out and putting Ernest Mossing adding experience and defensive power to the team. From there, Navack managed to neutralize better the game on the left proposed by Juznia, which resulted in the game on the middle of the field. Navack went out with the ball in the second half and just by slowly exchanging passes, Karsten Johansen gave an amazing through pass to Nesz who volleyed with violence into the back of the net to level Navack 2-2. Sannes quickly moved his men to keep the possession and defensive consistency and in the 58' minute substitute Johansen with Runar Ree, thus changing the scheme from a 4-3-3 to a 4-1-4-1. In the 64' minute, a long shot by Ken Bruer found Vetle Hildrum in the right corridor. He dribble his only marker and left footed shot on the top right corner of the goal to put Navack lead 3-2. The ice water bucket came in the 69' minute when Marius Rokhaug stopped a Juznian attempt with his hand, conceding a penalty kick to the Alemannians. Ignas Šmikus leveled 3-3. In the 83' minute, however, a corner by Mossing found Nesz who headed the ball into the net again to score the 4th and winning goal, besides scoring his first hat-trick in the competition.

Nikódem Nesz was elected the best player of the match, but Bronislovas Kūris’ brilliant first half got him as the best Juznian player. At the end of the game, captain Jørgen Hammer said: “I will be honest with you, we did underestimate them and we paid for it. It’s not like we wanted, but things like that happen when everybody around you is saying your team is the favorite. We do our best to keep it away from our group but today we were careless and Juznia knew how explore that. Thankfully we improved and Sannes also helped us, especially during the break and I am happy our team got out of here with the 3 points.”

Navack’s next deed is against the strong side of Qal’eh, who has the rope on their neck. The Sifhari team lost their match against Mardin Isles 2-1; another victim of the infamous giant killers. As Navack has its space in the round of 16 already, the game ends up being heavier for the Eagles. Qal’eh must win if they want to qualify without depending on a Juznia’s victory against the Mardin Isles. Navack will play in the Primorski Stadium on the 8th of July. Stay tuned on NSKB TV and NSKB Web for the full coverage of the games!

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[Mardin Isles]

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Ó hAnnáin: Copa knockouts "within our grasp"
The Warriors prepare for the all-important match against Juznia to continue their Romellean rollercoaster
3 July 2019, 21:00 / Aonġus Ó Grialais

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The team celebrates after a stunning 2-1 upset victory against Qal'eh.

Preparations for the Mardin Isles' final group stage match against Juznia are in full swing, with manager Laċtna Ó hAnnáin commenting that the knockout stage of the competition is "within our grasp".

The 43 year-old, who has led the team since 2015, was speaking ahead of the Warriors' final match against Juznia at the Primorski Stadium in Balchik on Thursday. It follows an extraordinary circle of events which saw the team hammered by reigning champions Navack 5-0, yet bouncing back to stun the formidable favourites from Qal'eh 2-1. As it stands, the Mardin Isles are in third place in Group E with 3 points, level with Qal'eh although with the latter heading in with a significant advantage on goal difference. The outcome of both final matches will be crucial in determining who advances and who will be flying home early.

"We were ruled as down and out after our first match," Ó hAnnáin commented. "Our aim was to defend as much as possible, to try and pull at least a point from that game. We weren't very successful, but I still believed in the boys". It seemed like he may have been the only one at that stage to believe in his own leadership skills, let alone the team. Following the disastrous showing, Mardic fans vented their anger. The hashtag "#ÓhAnnáinAmaċ", literally translated as 'Ó hAnnáin out", became a trending topic across social media. Reports surfaced in the days that followed of similar sentiments in the boardroom of the CPIM, the Mardic football association. Ó hAnnáin acknowledged that there was a lot of pressure being placed upon him. "I knew we had to prove them wrong, and we turned the tables."

Indeed they did. Changes were made to the Starting XI, most notably swapping out Oḋrán Ó Nearaiġ for 18 year-old wonder kid Aoḋan Ó Ruairc, who had captained the Mardic team to the quarter-finals of the U17 Copa last year. The defense was also altered, with Aoḋ Mac Ḋonnċa subbed for 23 year-old Seán Mac Íosóg. These changes, in part, helped spur on the team to take control of the game against Qal'eh. The Warriors dominated the first half, confidently keeping possession and putting pressure on the Sifhari side. A Mardic corner produced the first goal thanks to a header from Cormac Mac Conmara, followed nineteen minutes later by a smashing header from Ruaiḋrí Ó Coille, assisted by captain Art Ó Dála. The boys in white and green kept up the pace, feeling energized by the healthy lead. An 82nd minute concession to Gankhaki may have been the start of a Qalehi comeback, but it wasn't to be. As the final whistle sounded, the Warriors celebrated a thrilling, crucial victory which kept their Copa hopes alive.

Looking ahead to their final bout against Juznia on Thursday, Ó hAnnáin dismissed talk that his team should expect a victory. "The Juznians are a very strong team, one only needs to look at how they played against Navack", he said. He noted the similarities between the two sides' first scorelines, and how it would be a competitive match. "Both of our teams have been put against the mightiest of teams. On our first matches, we were punctured. In our second matches, we held up in our own ways. I think it will be a fascinating match, but we can go out there and win it. I have faith in my lads".

It won't just be a victory against the white and blue which would secure the Isles a place in the final 16. Qal'eh's decisive match against Navack takes place on Monday, from which the outcome will determine the fate of the Warriors. A win against Juznia and a Qalehi loss or draw would see the Mardin Isles advance. Two sets of draws would see Qal'eh advance, thanks to their upper hand in goal difference. However, Ó hAnnáin insists his team is not concerned about possibilities, but rather on the so-called "Battle of Balchik", as dubbed by Mardic media. "We are not focusing on the maybes of what happens in the other game. We are focused on winning our game, nothing else."

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• #Pride - An Ráṫ celebrates LGBTQ+ pride

© An Aralt, 2000-2019

[Mardin Isles]

An Aralt @AnAralt Navack clubs size up Ruaiḋrí Ó Coille amidst impressive Copa showing #CúpanAnÉ aralt.im/5gyqu3i 13:42 - 04 Jul 2019 129Rechirps384Likes

Aongus Ó Lunaiġ @AongusOLunaig Whatever happens tonight, the Warriors are an absolute credit to their country and an inspiration to us all. We're all pulling behind you lads! #MARJUZ #LaoċraAbú 17:11 - 04 Jul 2019 545Rechirps1,392Likes

Caṫal Mac Aoḋ @Catamacadoo__ Another all-or-nothing s**t-show on the way, can we ever catch a break #MARJUZ 19:44 - 04 Jul 2019 1,294Rechirps3,950Likes

Éanna Ó Murċú @Eanna_O_M Laċtna Ó hAnnáin announces same Starting XI against Qal'eh to play against Juznia this evening. Kick-off at 21:00 Mardic time, live on TIM 2 #MARJUZ #CupánTIM 19:50 - 04 Jul 2019 28Rechirps70Likes

[Vrnallia]

In yet another surprise result amongst the many that seem set to characterise this year's Copa d'Aeia tournament, Vrnallia have managed to secure an astonishing 3-0 victory against Chokashia in Vrnallia's second group match. This follows an earlier draw against Midrasia and ranks alongside other upsets by island nations such as the Mardin Isles' 2-1 victory over Qal'eh and Isolaprugna holding Batisuria to a goalless draw. Some pundits have spoken of an "island curse" haunting the giants of football, though with this result Vrnallia seems to particularly exemplify the curse - or blessing, as the case may be.

The game began with Chokashia playing somewhat offensively, perhaps to avoid the same disaster which befell the initially more reserved Midrasia in their own match against the Wings. The Chokashians managed to press into the Vrnallian half multiple times but ultimately failed to get near enough to the goal to take a precise shot. An opportunity seemed to present itself around the twenty-second minute, as Lazović, who scored the second goal in Chokashia's victorious match against Veleaz, managed to slip past the Vrnallian midfielders and pushed onwards towards his target. Yet the Chokashian midfield seemed to lose focus, and opened themselves up, being unprepared when Vrnallian defender and captain Dubuni Lutho was able to steal possession. A long cross past the overly-confident Chokashian forwards and disarrayed midfielders to Markel Fock ultimately led to Lijam Higej slotting the ball past the Chokashian keeper in the twenty-fourth minute.

The Chokashians became very reserved for the rest of the first half, and at times seemed to simply be stalling for time. Vrnallia, emboldened by their lead, doggedly pressed their advantage but largely failed to penetrate the iron wall set up by the Chokashians. Yet only once for the rest of the half did Chokashia get a viable opportunity to equalise, as Spajić, double scorer against Veleaz, broke through the Vrnallian ranks to take a near-miss shot at the goal in the fortieth minute. The first half came to a close with Vrnallia a single goal up.

The second half saw the Chokashians give up their passivity and return to a more offensive style, hoping to level the score. This change seemed to initially take the Wings by surprise, though a goal was not conceded by either team and a back-and-forth ensued, with ground lost only to be retaken. Eventually a handball by one of the Chokashian midfielders gave Vrnallia a free kick and a new opportunity. Vdàrik took the kick, and his teammates were able to break through the Chokashian defence as Dnakovi achieved his third goal in the competition in the seventy-first minute.

The Chokashians looked dejected. The Vrnallians seemed emboldened. Perhaps too much so; mere minutes after raising the score to 2-0 Lijam Higej committed a foul and was given a yellow card. Manager Khami Hariu took swift action to replace him and fellow scorer Dnakovi with Paul Boziég and Mológ Vola respectively, the first Vrnallian substitution so far. Both looked quite glad to finally have a chance to show their worth, leading some excellent pushes against their opponents which quickly bore fruit as Vola landed yet another goal in the eighty-first minute. Now leading by three to zero, the Vrnallians began to play more defensively, denying any opportunities to Chokashia for the remainder of the match. As the two minutes of stoppage time passed, the tiredness and woe upon the faces of the Chokashians was as easy to see as the joy upon the Vrnallians'.

Now with four points and a goal difference of +3, Vrnallia looks set to place top or second of Group F and advance to the round of sixteen. The final hurdle is Veleaz, a long-time absentee of the Copa returning now only after major political changes in the homeland. The few Vrnallian fans present in person in Romellea seem to have already taken a liking to the Veleazans, with supporters of both teams seen celebrating together after the 3-3 tie with Midrasia; yet determined to secure their place beyond the group stage, the Wings will feign no friendship come the tenth, when the two will clash in their group's final game. Most observers now assume an easy win for Vrnallia, as Veleaz already lost 3-2 to Chokashia. Hariu has confirmed that he will use the game as an opportunity to give as-yet unseen players a chance, adding Hogas, Pohjanmaa and Muski to the starting eleven in place of Chù, Movo and Sthuma. But unlike the Midrasians before them, the Vrnallian team is determined to avoid all complacency in this key match.

[Vrnallia]

Khami Hariu @hariuKh Not just a draw, but a win in #CHOVRN game! We are elated! #Copa2019 #Vljeguš 12:20 am - 2 Jul 2019 711Rechirps1,450Likes

Helíz Dnakovi @DnakoviHelízJB Another goal... and many clubs notice, but I will follow my heart alone #Copa2019 #CHOVRN 12:39 am - 2 Jul 2019 506Rechirps1,138Likes

Brdas Simuso @brdasimuso #CHOVRN should of be #VRNCHO because i am put VRNALLIA first ALWAYS in proud heart! ga vrnalja zah thar lucidzad! 11:50 pm - 26 Jun 2019 1Rechirps5Likes

[Ajerrin]

John Wahlee @DarkwaterIrons WAKE UP SHARKS! #Darkwater #SHARKS #Copa2019 #WakeUp 02:51 - 05 Jul 2019 129,523Rechirps167,172Likes

Savai Snacks @SavaiSnacksHQ We'll give a 10% discount on all Savai Sweets for each goal the Sharks score in the next match. WAKE UP SHARKS! #WakeUp @Copa2019 #SavaiSweetsYum 9:00 - 04 Jul 2019 83,027Rechirps76,726Likes

Queen Lani @QueenLani Its not over yet, Sharks. You can do this! Fight like the Sharks I know you are! Get in the water and Wake Up! #Sharks #Copa2019 @WakeUp 09:30 - 04 Jul 2019 4,931,182Rechirps5,937,192Likes

[/quote]

[Romellenic Federation]

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[Midrasia]

Marcel Belou

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MIDRASIA VANQUISH VELEAZ IN HEATED CLASH

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The team celebrates an emphatic 3-0 win over their rivals at full-time, but the match was marred by controversy

Sredec, Romellea ‒ The Midrasian national football team today celebrated a landmark 3-0 victory over arch-rivals Veleaz, with the result keeping the team's dreams of qualification to the knockout stages alive. However, the win did not come without controversy as the opening goal by Miquees Crespi saw the left-back celebrate with his trademark 'finger-guns' celebration, a move which deeply offended the Veleazan team and their fans. Though Crespi was used to celebrating in this manner, the opposing team and fans took the celebration to reference the recent Triskaideka War as well as those who had been gunned down by Veleazan troops trying to cross the border into Midrasia prior to the war. Whilst Crespi was yellow-carded for his celebration and soon realised his mistake, this has not stopped many online calling for Crespi to be thrown out of the tournament for his actions. In the aftermath of the event, the Veleazan football federation released a statement saying: "We condemn the utterly disgusting actions by the player. We are calling on both the Midrasian football federation and the Football Federation of Aeia to enact a sufficient punishment for this abhorrent behaviour." So far both the Midrasian Football Federation and Football Federation of Aeia are yet to respond. In the stadium, the celebration saw many within the Veleazan crowd turn hostile, hurling abuse along with items such as plastic bottles and paper onto the pitch. This resulted in retaliation by the Midrasian fans, particularly the Midrasian ultras who let off flairs and sang derogatory songs about Veleaz. Whilst security personnel at the match were able to quell much of the hostility of the crowd, with several arrests, tensions remained high throughout the remainder of the match.

Crespi's goal which came in the 37th minute appeared to be along the run of play as Midrasia looked to work the ball around dominating possession. Both full-backs appeared to be playing more conservatively than within the opening game as when one moved high up the pitch, the other looked to stay back to defend. When Midrasia lost the ball they pressed with a heavy intensity for the first seven seconds, before falling back into a defensive unit. Clar's use of the 4-2-3-1 in this game with Hevre as a lone striker and Lazaré in the 10 proved an unorthodox approach but one that worked very well. Having both Jacques Joulles and Basile Chevalier as a midfield duo gave the team much greater stability at the back, denying Veleaz many opportunities on goal. At half-time, as both teams left the field for the break, the score stood at 1-0 to Midrasia.

In the second half, Veleaz started out well, looking to equalise and clearly enraged by what had taken place within the first half of the game. Despite a number of chances on goal, with striker de Villegas hitting the post on one occasion, the Midrasian defence stood strong. In the 64th minute, a thunderbolt strike by midfielder Basile Chevalier sent the score to 2-0. Following the second Midrasian goal, the Veleazans looked to tire, seemingly losing hope in the match as Midrasia once again dominated the ball. Then in the 81st minute, striker Enzo Lazaré slotted home to give himself his third goal of the tournament, and the third goal of the game. The final score stood at 3-0, Midrasia victorious over their rival neighbours, but not without controversy. As the final whistle blew, the Midrasian crowd gave out an emphatic cheer, with many of the ultras once again setting off flairs and hurled abuse at the Veleazan fans. A banner was also unveiled in one section of the crowd reading: "Ossuria is Midrasian", referring to the long-running dispute between the two nations over the status of the island of Ossuria/Azur. Security personnel handled the post-match situation amicably however. The physical division between the fanbases minimised the number of brawls within the stadium, whilst the Veleazan fans were allowed to leave the stadium first whilst the Midrasians were held back to prevent any clashes outside of the ground.

With Midrasia's victory over Veleaz, the team's dreams of qualifying for the knockout stages of the tournament remain alive. Midrasia now lies joint-top of Group F along with Veleaz on 4 points and a +3 goal difference. Following Vrnallia's shock victory over Chokashia, Midrasia will now need at least a draw against Chokashia in order to qualify. Elsewhere in the tournament, Romellea, Vidoria, Liiduria, Goulong, Navack, the Mardin Isles, and Utamucanee have all qualified for the knockout stages. Particularly shocking is the inclusion of the Mardin Isles in this group after they saw off Juznia in a 4-0 thriller to send one of the favourites Qal'eh home. This year's edition of the Copa d'Aeia already appears to have many surprised up its sleeves, let us hope that at least for Midrasia these prove to be good surprises in future.

[Romellenic Federation]

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[Romellenic Federation]

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[Midrasia]

Marcel Belou

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MIDRASIA SECURE QUALIFICATION AGAINST CHOKASHIA

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Simone Qualquart sets up Enzo Lazaré for his first goal of the game in the 32nd minute

Sveti Vlas, Romellea ‒ Midrasia today secured qualification into the knockout rounds of the Copa d'Aeia after a rocky start to their campaign. An early draw against underdogs Vrnallia put doubts in the minds of fans about whether Midrasia could even make it out of the group stages, but emphatic performances against both Veleaz and Chokashia allowed the team the steady the ship. Midrasia will now finish either first or second within their group depending on the result of the Veleaz - Vrnallia game.

The match was relatively one-sided for the majority of the game with Midrasia dominating possession and dictating the play of the game. The first breakthrough came in the 24th minute with Simone Qualquart opening the scoring through a left-footed curling shot. Again the 32nd-minute Midrasia doubled their lead as Qualquart assisted Lazaré through a splitting through ball breaking past the defensive offside trap. After the second half, Midrasia toned down their pressing in an effort to save some energy but were still able to increase their lead as Lazaré dummied the defence in the 67th minute to set the score to 3-0. However, Chokashia were able to get a consolation goal within the 72nd minute through Spajić, which send manager Pere Clar into a rage as his team appeared to turn off for the first time in the match. Nevertheless, Chokashia were unable to build upon their one goal leaving the game to finish at 1-3. Following the match, Clar praised his team for rising to the challenge after their opening 3-3 draw against Vrnallia. Clar levied particular praise upon strikers Lazaré and Qualquart, along with Satorras for his role in the team's offensive build-up. After the struggle in the group stages, the manager also stated that the team must be able to "move up to another gear now we are in the knockout stages. Now it's all or nothing."

Attention now turns to who Midrasia will face within the round-of-16. The result of the Veleaz-Vrnallia match will dictate where Midrasia will finish in their group. Should Vrnallia win by a margin of 3 or higher, they will go top, giving them the preferential position for the second round as they will face against a team which finished second within their group. However, vice-captain Qualquart after the Chokashia match stated that the team "must be ready to face anybody. It doesn't matter to hope for an easier draw, if we want to win we have to beat everybody. We can't shirk the challenge now."

[Lopimina]

ROUND OF 16 GAMES

CUIRPTHE vs NAVACK
GOULONG vs ALEIA
VVARDEN vs LIIDURIA
MIDRASIA vs HYTEKIA
RENNEQUE vs MARDIN ISLES
ISOLAPRUGNA vs CHOKASHIA
ALRIIKA vs CRYLANTE
VIDORIA vs FAHRAN

All games will be scorinated at 8:00pm GMT except the game highlighted in red, which I will attempt to scorinate live beginning at 8:30pm GMT. The deadline for all articles and bonuses is 7:30pm, all articles posted after then will not count.

[Lopimina]