Baptism of Fire 70 Everything Thread

[Aurevbush]

THE GATORS COME MARCHING AGAIN!

The Aurevs strike again, this time against San Carlos Islands, whom fans expected to be contested by their opponent, only to be steamrolling yet another team in their immediate league.


We are off to a great start here in this Baptism tournament and their performance is very awesome for their international debut. Last night they scored 2-0 against Team San Carlos Islands.

San Carlos was in an awkward position when Aurevbush had much the possesion in the first half.

The match was interrupted for 45 minutes by lightning and jeavy rain in the second half, but SCI had to weather a storm of a different sort on the pitch as Aurevbush enjoyed the majority of possession and chances.

Aurevbush has had a record of playing dirty to get where they are right now, but suprisingly at this match, they won playing smart.

They had found the SC goalkeeper to be impossible to bypass until Freddy Valle triumphed from the opponents poor attempt to clear the ball by the SC Defender on 83 minutes and arrowed him shot into the top corner.

Emmanuel Prado then sealed the points with an excellent solo goal in stoppage time as he pittered past three defenders before nailing the ball beyond the helpless SC goalkeeper.

San Carlos Islands created little in the way of chances, and battled to keep possession, giving the ball away on 70 occasions in the first half.

The opponent gk saved smartly from Irish’s (#6) header at a corner, expertly reaching backwards to claw the ball to safety, in the best chance of the first half.

Aurevbush created a number of half-chances at the start of the second period as they tried to pass their way through SCI, with Roberts' effort deflected just wide of the goal.

Shortly afterwards the rain started lashing down, but before the players left the pitch on 72 minutes, Freddy Valle flashed a shot from the edge of the box narrowly over the bar.

The lengthy break should have allowed SCI to catch their breath and re-organize, but when the game resumed, it was more of the same.

The opponent goalkeeper tipped a curling Jefferson Umana shot over the bar as Aurevbush continued to press for the opener, which finally came when Freddy Valle provided the clinical touch that had been missing from most of the match and Prado showed him class with a sublime finish.

[Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison]

It has no other possible and plausible explanation...

Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison lost to Orestea by 3x2.Orestea who had lost three games in a row before today.Three straight defeats!Then,after looking thriugh the results we've arrived at one simple and probably true conclusion:the evil groups behind Drawkland's World Cup bid,are acting in this BoF,since they cannot mess with the World Cup,they will make all the possible things to ruin this BoF.
The game started well for Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison,untill the referee gave a red card to Na'arew Nàrà'zyw when he stole the ball from an Orestean player,but in the eyes of the referee,he also aggressed the player.Also,in the same play,he almost yellow-carded Peri Ubiratã ibiriçá for "excessive discussion and disrespect".Fortunatelly this did not oringinate any real immediate risk,but it surely disequilibrated the rest of the match.On the twentieth minute,Orestea got a penalty and scored its first goal.Two minutes later,Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison tyed the game,but the referee wrongfully said it was offsided,even though the linesman did not mark offside.Orestea had a legitimate goal chance at the 33rd minute of the first period,but the referee saw someone of their team putting the hand on the ball,which is something that only he might have seen!Orestea scored their second goal at the 40th minute of the first period.
Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison scored its first goal at the tenth minute of the second time,when Rhinić managed to intercept a pass at the middle of the field and carry it all the way to the small area,and even managed to dribble the goalkeeper.Orestea scored its third goal at the fifteenth minute of the third period,in a corner favourable to them,with a heading originated from a head pass.There were several weird refeereeing mistakes.The second goal from Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison was scored by Sinusić who stole the ball near the area and sent a strong shoot into the goal,at the thirty-second minute of the second period.

source:a blog about Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison

[Saintland]

MD5 Results

St. Petrus Group
Bernegastad 0–1 San Félix
Pius Desurongcrandis 2–1 Western Bjornaic
The Aurian Plains 2–5 Starcom Racing
Tulize 4–2 Tornado Queendom

  St. Petrus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 San Félix                           5   4  1  0   13   7  +6   13
2 Starcom Racing                      5   4  0  1   23  13 +10   12
3 Bernegastad                         5   2  1  2    8   7  +1    7
4 Pius Desurongcrandis                5   2  1  2    8  11  −3    7
5 Tulize                              5   2  1  2    8  11  −3    7
6 The Aurian Plains                   5   1  2  2    8  10  −2    5
7 Tornado Queendom                    5   1  2  2    9  12  −3    5
8 Western Bjornaic                    5   0  0  5    4  10  −6    0

St. Paulus Group
West Phoenicia 3–1 Aurevbush
Spensar 2–1 Lepolanatnessffiria
Petrisi 0–1 Abercontin-Jereaux
San Carlos Islands 0–0 Bolgano

  St. Paulus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Abercontin-Jereaux                  5   5  0  0   14   4 +10   15
2 West Phoenicia                      5   4  0  1   15   3 +12   12
3 Bolgano                             5   3  1  1    8   5  +3   10
4 Aurevbush                           5   3  0  2    7   6  +1    9
5 San Carlos Islands                  5   2  1  2    2   7  −5    7
6 Spensar                             5   1  1  3    7  11  −4    4
7 Petrisi                             5   0  1  4    3   9  −6    1
8 Lepolanatnessffiria                 5   0  0  5    1  12 −11    0

El Fierro Group
Caras 1–4 Port Ember
Saciu 2–3 Shatla
Amurbia 0–1 Timuria

  El Fierro Group                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Timuria                             5   5  0  0   13   2 +11   15
2 Port Ember                          4   3  0  1   12   6  +6    9
3 Amurbia                             4   1  2  1    8   6  +2    5
4 Saciu                               4   1  1  2    6   7  −1    4
5 Kandonica                           4   1  1  2    5  13  −8    4
6 Caras                               5   1  0  4    7  15  −8    3
7 Shatla                              4   1  0  3    6   8  −2    3

Los Martires Group
Terre Septentrionale 5–3 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison
Lashnakia 1–3 Lavize
Amuaplye 2–3 Hapilopper

  Los Martires Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Hapilopper                          5   5  0  0   20   7 +13   15
2 Terre Septentrionale                5   3  1  1   18  11  +7   10
3 Amuaplye                            4   2  1  1    9   6  +3    7
4 Lavize                              4   2  0  2    8  10  −2    6
5 Orestea                             4   1  0  3    8  17  −9    3
6 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison      4   1  0  3    9  11  −2    3
7 Lashnakia                           4   0  0  4    4  14 −10    0

San Hacienda Group
Paratan 3–4 The Orion Islands
Asdia 3–1 New Karelograd
The Szcerkina Federacy 0–3 Bliuji

  San Hacienda Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bliuji                              5   4  0  1   10   4  +6   12
2 Zealandiana                         4   3  1  0    6   2  +4   10
3 The Szcerkina Federacy              4   1  2  1    6   6   0    5
4 Asdia                               4   1  1  2    6   9  −3    4
5 The Orion Islands                   4   1  1  2    5   6  −1    4
6 New Karelograd                      4   1  1  2    3   6  −3    4
7 Paratan                             5   0  2  3    6   9  −3    2

Clinched a spot in Round of 16
Clinched at least a spot in Round of 20
Cannot advance to Round of 20

[West Phoenicia]

Travel Restrictions to Amuaplye

Honourable Jack Portland; Minister of Foreign Affairs has appeared on nation television this morning to inform citizens of an important travel decision.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has decided to reintroduce a travel ban to the nation of Amuaplye. An original travel was placed on Amuaplye during the last Summer Olympic Games in The Free Republics after numerous bombings erupted across the Amuaplye nation leaving a number of people dead, citizens in fear and millions in property damage. At the time due to the nature of the bombings, West Phoenicia imposed a strict travel ban on the nation in the hopes that no West Phoenician life would be endangered. A month after the Summer Olympic Games the travel ban was lifted and travel between the two nations resumed.

However due to a new spate of bombings across Amuaplye that included churches, schools and government buildings. The travel ban has been placed back on for West Phoenician citizens with the overall level being do not travel until further notice.

The West Phoenician government has called on Prime Minister Chuikov of Amuaplye to step up as a leader and start dealing with the problem of increased violence that sparks up. The West Phoenician government has also applauded Opposition leader Mary Beck for stepping up and identifying there is a problem.

On the sport front the West Phoenicia Stampedes have won match five of the Baptism of Fire by defeating Aurevbush 3-1. Two games remain before the round of 20, and West Phoenicia looks poised to make that step which would be a huge endorsement for the football team who are still struggling to build a decent fan base.

[Hapilopper]

Coliseum of the Crucifixion, Los Martires, Charter Society of Malifornia
Match five – Hapilopper vs. Amuaplye
Just before the match with Amuaplye, the Hapilopper National Football Team was remarkably relaxed. They’d need to be. It wasn’t as if they were playing a bottom-of-the-barrel club, they were playing Amuaplye, a team that, according to reports, had more to play for than just Baptism of Fire glory. According to what some of the Hapiloppians were seeing on the news, they were playing for some little bit of much-needed good news in their troubled homeland, and a win over Hapilopper would certainly be that kind of good news.

As the HNFT sat at their lockers before the start of the match, however, whatever unrest going on in Amuaplye didn’t even enter into their thoughts. Only one thing was in their minds, and that was to beat this potential last major test of the group phase of the Baptism of Fire. If Hapilopper would emerge victorious, their position in the knockout rounds would be not only secured, but a first round bye would be possible. This fact wasn’t lost on the Hapiloppians, who on this day, were playing at full strength. The players that took the last game off, led by lead striker Ernie Stevenson, were fully rested and ready to kick some ass in this highly crucial match. They knew the importance of this coming match.

Manager Thom Perkins didn’t need to say much. In his pre-match speech, he didn’t even as much raise his voice. He didn’t need to.

“You guys know what you need to do,” Thom said. “I have faith in all of you. All of you were named to this team for a good reason. On this day, we win. Period. Stick to what got you here, bust some ass, and let’s knock these guys off.”

The players all nodded their heads. It was obvious they were deep in thought, the intensity levels slowly rising as they prepared to bust ass like never before. They knew the importance of this match. Their countrymen knew the importance of this match, too.

Every single one of the 97,000+ seats at the Coliseum were packed, and a little more than half of them were fans that had come over from Hapilopper to watch their fellow countrymen go for this important victory. Those fans were remarkably noisy, even two hours before match time, singing a variety of songs, chanting a variety of slogans, waving Hapiloppian flags and waving a variety of creatively-drawn signs for all to see.

For those that couldn’t get a ticket, they were perched in various areas around Los Martires, filling a variety of pubs all around the city. Hapiloppians wearing the blue, white and green of the national team, or the kits of their domestic clubs, could be seen all over the city. Back home in Hapilopper, it was still morning, but the pubs were filled with excited – and drunk – Hapiloppians ready to watch their countrymen hopefully punch their ticket to the knockout rounds. The sun had just risen over the eastern portions of the Dominion, and it was early on a Thursday, but a number of individuals had taken off work. After all, it’s hard to be productive when you’re six beers in and the match hadn’t even started yet.

What the Hapiloppians got was one of the most intense football matches held this year or any other year. For 90 minutes, Hapilopper and Amulaplye were even. Ernie Stevenson scored a goal with assists from Steve Erickson and Bobby East in the 17th. In the 22nd minute, Zachary Williamson scored one of the most magnificent goals seen in the entire tournament, making Cooter Harris look like a fool as the ball went over his head. The score was 1-1, the way it stood at the end of the first half.

Williamson scored his 2nd goal in the 56th minute, going around all of Hapilopper’s defenders to take only the second lead a team had experienced over the Haps. But then, in the 63rd, Bobby East spotted something that nobody else did – a hole, an opening which he could break through. He took advantage of that hole and scored a goal from the left side. For much of the remainder of the match, it appeared that’s how it would end, a 2-2 tie much like how Amuaplye and Terre Septentrionale ended their epic match.

In the second minute of stoppage, however, Ernie Stevenson, running to a possible match-winning goal, was tripped by Amuaplye’s defender Cesar Baldwin in the 18-yard box. Baldwin got a yellow card, and much to the delight of the thousands of Hapiloppians, Ernie was going to get a penalty kick.

The intensity of the situation was such that you could practically cut it with a knife. Ernie stared down Owen Estrada, Amuaplye’s goalkeeper, and appeared to mouth some words to him as he displayed an almost sinister look on his face. Those that could read lips later said that Ernie said “your ass is mine.” Ernie faked once. He faked twice. He kicked right and the ball made the back of the net.

All of Hapilopper went into ecstasy. The Hapiloppians that made the trip to the Free Republics were beside themselves. In the pubs across Hapilopper, fans were flinging beer everywhere. Hapilopper led 3-2, and that’s how the match ended minutes later. The HNFT had not only made it to the knockout rounds, but they had indeed scored a first-round bye in the 70th Baptism of Fire. They were one of three teams with a perfect record, along with Timuria and Abercontin-Jereaux.
After returning to the locker room once the match had ended, Thom had little to say. Again, he didn’t need to say much.

“I’ve got some great news, gang. First round bye!”

The team roared its approval.

“I’ve got some more great news. We've got a bye!”

Again, roars of approval. The entire team could take some time to chill over the next few days before their final group match of the phase, against Lavize. The HNFT could take some time off to enjoy the best of what Malifornia, and the Free Republics, had to offer. They had earned it.

After speaking to his players, Thom addressed the media, and spoke of the importance of Hapilopper’s huge victory over Amuaplye.

“I think all we need now is a tie and we’ve clinched the group,” Thom said. “We’ve run roughshod over our opponents and I think we could beat anyone here.”

Thom spoke of the performance of his striker, Ernie Stevenson, whose clutch goal secured victory for the HNFT.

“That Ernie Stevenson’s a hell of a player, isn’t he?” Thom joked. “I think he went in there with the right mentality, to get the job done and get it done right, and boy, did he ever! I’d imagine he’ll be in contention for the Golden Boot once this one’s all set and done.”

Your headlines from this match!

Hapilopper Television Network: ERNIE WITH A HEROIC GOAL! | Footy.co.hp: HAPILOPPER WINS AN ALL-TIME CLASSIC | Venerable Television: HAPS NEED A TIE TO CLINCH THE GROUP | The Buckridge Morning Sentinel: HAPS WIN FIRST-ROUND BYE WITH WALKOFF WIN OVER AMUAPLYE | The Hapilopper City Herald: MORNING DRUNKEN REVELRY: HC SEES EARLY MORNING CELEBRATIONS AFTER BoF VICTORY

[Spensar]

Spensar stays alive in BoF 70
Spensar 2–1 Lepolanatnessffiria
(Alex 32', Novakson 43')
(Unnamed 49')

Spensar secured their first international football victory overnight, defeating Lepolanatnessffiria and subsequently ending a three-game losing streak to start Baptism of Fire 70 at the Royal Stadium in Saintland.

Both sides entered with a simple equation- lose and go home or win and stay alive, with both sides having yet to have registered a win in the St. Paulus group. Spensar, however, entered the game with some confidence, having managed to score three goals in their previous match against a strong Abercontin-Jereaux defence, a high-scoring affair in which the Spensarian defence found it difficult to play out the full 90 minutes in a consistent manner, leaking five goals, three of which came in the first 30 minutes. Subsequently, manager Dante Galekovic made the move of sidelining Goalkeeper Andrew Covic in favour of Southcross' keeping prodigy Daniel Castillo, while also making the decision to change the formation to 5-4-1 rather than the 4-4-2 of the previous four matches.

These changes seemed to pay dividends, with the Spensarians dominating possession and opportunities in the first half, with near chances from Alex and Andrew Charlesworth in the first 20 minutes of action narrowly missing. In the 18th minute, FC Antley's Alex intercepted the ball near the half-way mark and took a wild shot at goal, his shot slamming into the post in what would arguably have been one of the goals of the tournament. However 14 minutes later he would finally join the scoresheet, heading in Newton Azarenka's corner to give the Spensarians a 1-0 lead. David Novakson would also add to the scoreboard at the 43rd-minute mark after getting on the receiving end of a Scott German pass, who had weaved through two Lepolanatnessffiria defenders, beating the keeper at the corner of the penalty box.

However once again the Spensarians struggled to play out the full 90 minutes, with Lepolanatnessffiria coming out firing after the half-time break knowing fully well their tournament would be over if they were unable to mount a comeback. This was particularly evident in the first minutes of the second half, as Lepolanatnessffiria scored in the 49th minute, beating the outstretched arms of Castillo to bring the score to 2-1. For the rest of the match, the Spensarians valiantly defended their lead- Robert Tabitha and Gavin Cannon were particularly dominant for the Wolves after a disappointing game against Abercontin-Jereaux, as the Spensarians were able to hold on despite a strong push from Lepolanatnessffiria in the second half.

Speaking at the after-match press conference manager Dante Galekovic commented on the victory- "This is very special to us, the boys knew that today was an extremely important match and I'm happy we were able to hold on and take the win."

"However we're in a position where we need to win every game from here to qualify for the finals so the job is far from over."

"The next games from here are crucial if we are going to qualify for the finals, which I know we want, and we know the fans back home in Spensar want as well."

Galekovic was praised by the media post-match for his tactical decisions, particularly the move to bench the experienced Covic in favour of Castillo, a move which pre-match met the ire of some Spensarians, particularly fans of Covic's club, Stanly City. Castillo was outstanding in goal despite conceding once, and he is expected to start again once more in the next group match.

"It was a gutsy move but it was one we discussed with Andrew (Covic), he obviously wasn't particularly happy, but after losing three-straight games we knew that we were going to have to make some changes. At just 22, Daniel (Castillo) has a very bright future ahead of him as we all saw today."

After the victory, Spensar sits in sixth place in the St. Paulus group, with a better goal difference than fifth-placed side San Carlos Islands who defeated them 1-0. Spensar will face West Phoenecian in their next match.

[Amuaplye]

Travel Restrictions to Amuaplye

Honourable Jack Portland; Minister of Foreign Affairs has appeared on nation television this morning to inform citizens of an important travel decision.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has decided to reintroduce a travel ban to the nation of Amuaplye. An original travel was placed on Amuaplye during the last Summer Olympic Games in The Free Republics after numerous bombings erupted across the Amuaplye nation leaving a number of people dead, citizens in fear and millions in property damage. At the time due to the nature of the bombings, West Phoenicia imposed a strict travel ban on the nation in the hopes that no West Phoenician life would be endangered. A month after the Summer Olympic Games the travel ban was lifted and travel between the two nations resumed.

However due to a new spate of bombings across Amuaplye that included churches, schools and government buildings. The travel ban has been placed back on for West Phoenician citizens with the overall level being do not travel until further notice.

The West Phoenician government has called on Prime Minister Chuikov of Amuaplye to step up as a leader and start dealing with the problem of increased violence that sparks up. The West Phoenician government has also applauded Opposition leader Mary Beck for stepping up and identifying there is a problem.

Government House
Sydney, Amuaplye
February 25, 2019

The Acting Foreign Minister walked into his office. Sergei, looking extremely displeased, sighed as he handed Sergei the paper. "Of course they will. Of course they will. First it's Perry, and now it's that Melbourne twit. What now before we eventually crumble under international pressure?"

"Don't think of this nation that way."

"There's no point. We're an international laughingstock. I can't bloody do anything because they only person I can actually talk to do something about it blew his goddamn brains out 2 weeks ago."

"Surely, you can do-"

Sergei cut him off. "And it'll keep going for as long as I am in power. And, whilst we do have a candidate underway, I still have to go through a godly amount of red tape before I can do something."

"Can you please-"

"SHUT IT!" Sergei roared. He was obviously extremely angry at the situation at hand. "Amuaplye is nothing now! I have become a careless shadow of the Prime Minister I used to be. Now, they're saying that I'm the next Pellatier. And, if they don't throw me out in a week's time, tell Ms. Beck that I will resign. There must be a better person than me."

"OK, OK, just calm down, Mr. Chuikov." He said, rather meekly.

"Now go and make your country proud." Sergei said sarcastically. "And tell Mr. Bishop to let some nutcase blow up Parliament again."

---

Parliament
Sydney, Amuaplye
The Next Day

"Order! Order!" The Speaker yelled, as the chit chat silenced itself as he yelled that.

"OK, now we must introduce bill #458012, "Motion of No Confidence Against Prime Minister Sergei Chuikov. Now, Ms. Beck, as you are the one who wrote the bill, shall you explain what it does?"

Mary stood up. "Yes, Mr. Speaker." She paused for a few seconds, as she cleared her throat. "Ladies and Gentlemen of Parliament, I have instituted this bill, as Mr. Chuikov has proved that he has become an ineffective leader here in Amuaplye.

His cabinet has resigned, some of his most powerful men in his leadership have died, and we have turned into an international laughingstock. Just yesterday, the nation of West Phoenicia reinstated its travel ban on our country, after only a few weeks of no terrorist attacks."

"Ms. Beck, I would say that America has a higher terror rate than we do, right? After all, it seems like they have a mass shooting every other week."

"Yes, but they aren't serial bombers, Mr. Chuikov." She'd then go back to her speech. "Anyway, it has been proven that Mr. Chuikov's leadership is completely incompetent when it comes to national security. We have had 2 deadly, high-profile bombers in the span of 3 months. Why hasn't anyone stopped this yet?"

"Because of all of the red tape I have to go through. I first have to find a good candidate, hope and pray that he doesn't back out, then go through a long confirmation process, and then... boom! Some nutcase blows up something before I could even do something about it!"

A Family First MP stood up. "Mr. Chuikov, you know full well that Mr. Bishop could fully operate that position. And you currently have an acting Head of the ADTTF."

Mr. Bishop stood up. "Mr. Chuikov, though we have been business partners for nearly 11 years, I think the time has come for me to finally make up my mind. Mr. Speaker, please count my vote as for the ACP, not the SPA." He'd then walk across the aisle, and sit in an empty seat in the Opposition side.

"Wait a minute, is he allowed to do that?" Mr. Chuikov asked, in shock.

"Yes, he is." the Speaker replied. "Though, nobody's done it in a long while."

Chuikov grumbled something in Russian, then sat down.

"Nothing further, Mr. Speaker." Ms. Beck sat down.

"We shall consider the debate portion over. We shall now come to a vote. Stand if you vote yes." People did so. Several people counted who was standing.

"Stand for no." Again, they counted.

"The Yeas have it. 357 to 143. Mr. Chuikov, you have been hereby stripped of your title as Prime Minister."

[Port Ember]

Port Ember Times

Three in a Row!!!

Port Ember 4 - Caras 1

By Erica Davies - Federation of Free Republics.

Port Ember's national football team has grabbed their third consecutive international victory, as part of the Baptism of Fire League this tuesday, with a impressive 4-1 final score against Caras.

The match took place in the Fierro del Infierno Stadium, and the 93,204 seats was filled to capacity, with an enormous turnout from Port Emberian fans, for the fourth time in a row. Port Ember is rapidly gaining a reputation for their passionate supporter base, with most tickets sold in this tournament being Port Emberian citizens.

Port Ember looked impressive on the field, and has once again clearly proved that they are improving with each match that they play.

The Port Emberian side was filled with passion and fire the second the game opened, overwhelming their oponents and grabbed their opening goal in the 5th minute, when Nicovic slotted the ball into the net, assisted by fellow striker Moult.

After the restart the Port Emberians maintained the pressure, playing a proper team game by making what felt like hundreds of successfull passes, without really attempting to go for goal. This had an immediate effect of frustrating and tiring out the opposition.

Striker Leon Moult slotted the ball into the net for the second goal of the match in minute 25, from a beautifull move which burst from the right flank, assisted by Steve Rogers.

Nicovic again scored in minute 38 when he shot from outside the box, planting the ball in the top left corner of the net, when the Caras Keeper misjudged the shot and jumped to the right. This long distance shot had the effect of amazing and passionate responses from the capacity crowd, with the ringside announcer commenting "This crowd is on FIRE! I have not felt this crazy atmosphere since the final in the last world cup!"

When the second half commenced, it was clear that the match was in the bag for the Port Emberian side. Coach Baxter finally for the first time in the league played substitutions, swapping out a wopping 5 players:

- Striker Leon Moult was swapped with Jason Status;
- Midfielder Jason Chamberlain was swapped with Fraser Murray;
- Midfielder Steven Rogers was swapped with John Swift;
- Defender Josh Richards was swapped with Victor White;
- Defender Alex Kuhn was swapped with Theo Hermandez.

This large swap with players whonhave not yet played im this tournament gave the opposing Caras new hope, as they launched the second half with offensive after offensive, regularly breaking the defencive line, and made attempts at goal, eventually scoring in the 60th minute.

After the first goal against them, Port Ember struck back, with their substitutes finally finding their rhythm, and shut down attack after attack, demonstrating their best defence yet since the start of the tournament.

With the Caras side being visibly overtired and depressed, substitute striker Jason Status scored the final goal of the match in minute 85, dispaying beautifull teamwork between him and captain Reddington.

The coach, players and fans alike expressed joy at the victory and feels confident that the fire of hope remains to possibly reach the knockout stages.

---

Match Analysis - Port Ember

Port Ember is definitely on form, and their four years preparations is now clearly paying off on the field. Coach Baxter also feels very comfortbale with his team, proved with substituting 5 players at once for the second half,, which was very risky, yet still paid off. The team maintained their great offensive skills from before, and to the joy of the fans, have finally solidified their defencive line - which was seen as their greatest weakness.

---

Player Scores

Goalkeeper (GK)(#1): Peter Smith - 8/10. Once again did this young man keep up his good form, stopping 7 out of 8 shots at goal. Definitely a player to keep an eye on.

Center Back (CB)(#2): Josh Richards - 7/10. Improved from previous games, and was quite active. Finally proved himself on the field as he helped solidify the back line into an effective defence. Substituted in the second half.

Center Back (CB)(#3): Jason Lee. 8/10. Finally played to his talents and proved himself to be the iron fist in the backline. He kept the defence together when the second half substitute wave occurred, and stopped the match from turning into thebfavour of the opposition.

Full Back (LB)(#4): Alex Kuhn - 7/10. Improved from previous games, and was quite active. Finally proved himself on the field as he helped solidify the back line into an effective defence. Substituted in the second half.

Full Back (RB)(#5): Russel Pierce - 6/10. Improved from previous games, and was quite active. Did not get the chance to really prove himself, but held his head high none the less.

Attacking Midfield (AM)(#10): Raymond Reddington - 9/10.

The captain again proved his worth, snatching another man of the match award. From defence, organising the back line, offense and setting up attacks for his strikers, the lad was everywhere on the field. A true impact player from start to finish.

Defensive Midfield (DM)(#6): Steven Packard - 7/10. Excelled in his midfield role. Lots of future potential, as he displayed all the right moves in the midfield.

Wide Midfield (LM)(#8): Jason Chamberlain - 7/10. Excelled in his midfield role. Lots of future potential, as he displayed all the right moves in the midfield. Substituted in the second half.

Wide Midfield (RM)(#11): Steve Rogers - 8/10. Was on fire this game, being almost as active as Reddington, clearly showing an improved game compared to previous matches. His clinical passing was the bane of the oppisition. Substituted in the second half.

Central Forward (CF)(#7): Leon Moult - 7/10. Clearly on form now and is making up for his poor performance in his first two matches. The chemistry between him and Nicovic is clearly showing, and is a valuable asset on the field. Scored an impressive goal. Substituted in the second half.

Central Forward (CF)(#9): Danny Nicovic 8/10. As always played an impressive game, outrunning and outsmartimg the oppomemts midfield and defence. Played a critical role in tiring out the opponents backline. Also scored two very impressive goals in the first half. He seemed to slack in the second half however, seemingly to allow the substitute players some action.

Substitute Player

Center Back (CB)(#15): Victor White 7/10. Came on in the second half and struggled to find his place on the field. Midhalf however he improved drastically, forming part of the most effective defencive line yet displayed from the Port Emberians in this league.

Full Back (LB)(#16): Theo Hermandez 7/10. Came on in the second half and struggled to find his place on the field. Midhalf however he improved drastically, forming part of the most effective defencive line yet displayed from the Port Emberians in this league.

Wide Midfield (RM)(#21): John Swift 6/10. Came on in the second half. While he displayed decent skills and did not make serious errors, he did not particularly shined in any area and clearly buckled to pressure early on in the half.

Wide Midfield (LM)(#20): Fraser Murray 6/10. Came on in the second half. He struggled to find his rhythm and was the weaklink in the modfield for much of the secomd half. However he seemed to wake up in the last 10 minutes of the game, showimg a hint of his talent.

Central Forward (CF)(#23): Jason Status 7/10. Came on in the second half. Displayed great passion and activity, overall putting up a good show, which culminated with his first goal. Seems to have a lot of potential.

---

Match Stats - Port Ember Point of View

Goals Scored: D. Nicovic x 2; L. Moult x 1; J. Status x 1.

Goals Secceeded: x 1

Man of the Match: R. Reddington

---

After match word from the coach

"I am extremely pleased with our performance today. We were totally on form and truly dominated the game. We dictated the match from get go, and the opponents were forced to play the game our way. Finally, I know everyone will speak about my risky move with my 5 substitutes.. I did it for a good reason - we are here to not only do good this tournament - we are here to grow our entire team. We are building the future of the entire Port Emberian soccer here, thus I need to ensure all my lads gets playtime on the international level. And it worked out - our defence was bloody solid later on!"

Current Standings

El Fierro Group                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Timuria                             5   5  0  0   13   2 +11   15
2 Port Ember                          4   3  0  1   12   6  +6    9
3 Amurbia                             4   1  2  1    8   6  +2    5
4 Saciu                               4   1  1  2    6   7  −1    4
5 Kandonica                           4   1  1  2    5  13  −8    4
6 Caras                               5   1  0  4    7  15  −8    3
7 Shatla                              4   1  0  3    6   8  −2    3

Port Ember has ensured a comfortable position in second place on the table, and their chances of making it to the knockout stages are looking almost a certainty.

Next Match

Port Ember will face off next against Saciu in the Fierro del Infierno Stadium. Coach Baxter has announced the same starting players as before.

[Bolgano]

Important draw to classify
Bolgano 0-0 San Carlos Islas

After the draw, the team was able to qualify but victory was more important, taking advantage of the fact that the playoff classification changed the history of the national team.

[Port Ember]

Port Ember Times

Sports Column - Baptism of Fire League

Pre Match Analysis & Interview

By Erica Davies - Federation of Free Republics.

Port Ember will face off against Saciu in their fith match of the Baptism of Fire League this Thursday, to be played in the Fierro del Infierno Stadium; Free Republics.

Team Stats Analysis

Saciu:

This team has played 4 matches so far, of which they won 1 match, drew 1 match and lost 2 matches. They have scored a total of 6 goals and have allowed 7 goals to be scored against them, giving them a score difference of -1. They are currently ranked 4th on the El Fiero Group Table with a total of 4 points.

Port Ember

This team has played 4 matches so far, of which they won 3 matches, and lost 1 match. They have scored a total of 12 goals and have allowed 6 goals to be scored against them, giving them a score difference of +6. They are currently ranked 2nd on the El Fiero Group Table, with a total of 9 points.

Judging from the available statistics, I am firmly willing to bet money on a win for Port Ember for this match. Port Ember is clearly on form and is improving with each match played, and has found a dangerous rhythm to their playstyle. Whereas Saciu is clearly struggling at the moment and is barely hanging on to a possible dream to reach the knockout stages.

---

Team Analysis - Port Ember

Offense: Definitely this team's strong suite. Their strikers are on excellent form and there is great chemistry between the midfield and strikers, creating amazing attacking oppertunities. Also their signature 'Bait Ambush' tactic is yet to be countered in this league.

Midfield: Another massive strong suite under command of the amazing Reddington. The midfield plays a perfect balance between organising the defence, and creating oppertunities for attack.

Defence: Traditionally the weak spot for this team, which have drawn a lot of criticism. However during their last game, the backline have shown significant improvement and is actually worth being called an national team's backline. It remains to be seen whether their success can be duplicated.

Goalkeeping: Analysts have nothing but praise for Peter Smith the starting goalie. The young man is a legend in the making.

Substitutes: The team has a impressive line-up of substitutes, whom have received field time recently, adding possible depth to the team when needed.

Team Morale & Cohesion: The 4 year youth program is paying of dividends in this tournament, as the team has excellent cohesion and on the field chemistry. The three wins in a row also contributes to the teams current high morale.

Current Form In layman terms, the team is on 'fire'. Their three consecutive victories and their continious improvements are all great indicators.

Typical Gameplan: Their typical system of tiring out and frustrating their opponents in an attempt to pull their 'Bait Ambush' is a risky play which can easily go wrong and concede a goal. However when it works, it is highly effective, and so far this is still effective in the league, proved by the three consecutive wins.

---

Pre Match Interview with Port Emberian Coach - Stuart Baxter

Erica Davies: Morning Coach. How did you prepare for your upcoming match?

Stuart Baxter: Morning Erica. Well we have developed a simple pre-match system which we always use. The hard work was finished back home, so here we study tapes of our opponents' previous games, follow a light fitness regime and soft field drills.

Erica Davies: Makes sense. A lot of folks are criticising your decision of playing such a large number of substitutes in the previous match, stating that we could have won with a much larger margin if you stuck to your starting squad. Care to comment?

Stuart Baxter: Indeed. They are correct, we surely would have scored more if I stuck to the start squad. But the question beckons - to what end? What would that achieve? More bragging rights only - which is useless. Our only goal here is not solely to do well in the league with 15 lads, but to build up the entire future football sport for Port Ember. And for that I need to give all my lads playtime.

Erica Davies: Well said coach. You have been heavily criticised for the poor performance of the backline in the previous three games. You did manage to shock us all with the solid display during the last game. Do you think the days of poor defence is gone for good?

Stuart Baxter: We all like to judge ey'... I'd admit that our defence struggled before, but we are working on it, as you saw in the last game. We will continue to work on our defence, to maintain that standard. However people need to realise that deliberately creating wholes in our defence is part of our gameplay. And the last three wins tells you it works. You dont hear them folk complain about that..

Erica Davies: I like the fire coach! So for the next game, any changes in your gameplan, based on your opponents play?

Stuart Baxter: That is a resounding no. We dictate the play - not the other way round.

Erica Davies: Fun question - if you could choose any team to play next, who would you chose?

Stuart Baxter: Unconventional awnser - Timuria. In my opinion they are the strongest team in the league, and continiously improves. We had a close loss to them in the opener, before we were on form. I would love to see how we do against them now. The only way to grow better as a team is to challenge the best.

Erica Davies: Good awnser! Lastly, prediction for tomorow?

Stuart Baxter: I respectfully predict a smash.. Atleast a three goal lead. We are ready to bring the heat!

[Bliuji]

Is Bliuji this good?

In yesterdays game, Bliuji managed to shutout The Szcerkina Federacy 3 to nothing. This was a great game for the Bliujians. Midfielder Sidor Alexandrov with 2 goals and Gabriel Kolesnikov scoring his first ever goal in a international game. Another noteable preformance was goalkeeper Andriy Pyatov stoping 10 shots for the shutout. This victory puts the Bliujians in first place in their group. Once again sports analysts across the country are blown away from this; most people predicting Bliuji to be in the bottom of their group for the bof.

[Terre Septentrionale]

Terre Septentrionale wins over the Coalison

Los martires, Malifornia, Free Republics - Terre Septentrionle is back on the right track with their 2nd win in a row, this time against the Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison, which we will just call the Coalison. The Nordiques attacked at the 8th minute when Sarah Surprenant made a forward pass to Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa who dribbled with the ball and shoots and the ball is in! 1-0 Septentrionaux. Then, we had to wait until the 39th minute to see another goal. Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz passed the ball to Amelia Zalwowska who made a short pass to Zbigniew Zajaczkowski who shoots on the post. Amelia Zalwowska takes the rebound and shoots.. on the cross bar. Élisabeth Normandin takes the rebound and shoots... into the net and it's a goal! 2-0 Terre Septentrionale. Terre Septentrionale added another goal at the 44th minute when Élisabeth Normandin made a long pass to Zbigniew Zajaczkowski who dribbled with the ball and made a cross to Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa who shots and scores and the Reprezentacja Nordycki is leading 3-0! And it's the halftime.

Then the Coalison scored two goals, at the 55th and the 57th minute and the score is now 3-2 Terre Septentrionale. It looks like an impression of déjà vu. Then 3 minutes later, Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz took the game in charge, he was dribbling with the ball, getting around defensemen and he passed to Amelia Zalwowska who dribbled with the ball and shoots and the ball is in! 4-2 Northmen. The Coalison attacked at the 74th minute but the player shoots over the net, it's a goal kick. Zofia Kwietniewska kicks the ball, Jedrzej Kosciukiewicz and another player... well the Coalison's player names are unreadable... jumps to get the ball. Jedrzej Kosciukiewicz jumps higher and he made a header pass to Jean-François Kleineheismann who heads the ball right into the net. It's prettty nice when substitutes are contributing to the score and it's now 5-2 Nordiques. The Coalison scored another goal 12 minutes later and the final score was 5-3 Terre Septentrionale.

BOXSCORE
8th minute: Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa assisted by Sarah Surprenant
39th minute: Élisabeth Normandin (unassisted)
44th minute: Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa assisted by Zbigniew Zajaczkowski
55th minute: Coalison Player assisted by Coalison Player
57th minute: Coalison Player (penalty)
60th minute: Amelia Zalwowska assisted by Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz
74th minute: Jean-François Kleineheismann assisted by Jedrzej Kosciukiewicz
86th minute: Coalison Player assisted by Coalison Player

YELLOW CARDS
17th minute: Amelia Zalwowska
57th minute: Slawomir Skrzeszewski
69th minute: Coalison Player

RED CARDS
None

Los Martires Group

in other games, Hapilopper beat Amuaplye 3-2. Hapilopper has 15 points in 5 games and is now sure to finish in 1st place and go directly to the round of 16. Terre Septentrionale is in 2nd place with 10 points in 5 games while Amuaplye has 7 points in 4 games. We could have a tie in the standings between Terre Septentrionale and Amuaplye, if they wins their game in hand. We'll probably need the tie break and your're probably asking what's the tie break? here we go, from the brochure given by Saintland and the Free Republics to all journalists from participating nations:

Your majesty, we forgot to mention the tiebreakers. We will be utilizing the standard 3 points for a win and 1 point for a draw during the group stage. The tiebreakers will be head to head points, head to head goal difference, overall goal difference, matches won, goals against and finally a coin flip

Terre Septentrionale and Amuaplye obviously has the same head to head points and goal difference since they drew 1-1. Then the overall goal difference will be the next tie break. Terre Septentrionale is at +7 and Amuaplye is at +3, but it could change before the end. Then, matches won will obviously the same. Then, goals against. Terre Septentrionale has 11 goals against while Amuaplye only has 6. Then a freaking coin toss. I hate coin tosses. You can't decide who is advancing to the playoffs on a freaking coin toss.

Wlodzimierz Pietruszewski,
Senior writer, La tribune Septentrionale

[Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison]

A costly loss

Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison lost to Terre Setemptrionale by 5x3.The team only scored at the second time,when they were already losing by 3x0.
The team suffered its first blow on the 8th minute,when Fryderyka scored the first goal for the so-called Terre Setemptrironale.Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison almost tyed in the 15th minute when Peri Ubiratã Tibiriçá shot from outside the area,but their goalkeeper managed to catch it;again on the 17th minute,when Noledi Noniciwagha fell because of Zalwowska and he missed the free kick;and one more time again at the 28th minute when Indaje Nhakyrã Irayti stole the ball from a quite-distracted deffender and entred the area,another deffender stole the ball from him,but he managed to steal the ball back and shoot,but it hit the goalpost.On the 39th minute,E. Normandin scored in what could be described as a moment of luck.Fryderyka scored again at the 44th minute of the first period,after receiving a pass from Zbigniew Zajaczkowski.At the 46th minute of the first period,Peri Ubiratã Tibiriçá sent the ball literally in the angle,making it a quite complicated,but doable,catch for their goalkeeper.
At the 3rd minute of the second period,Mario Giovanni Petrescu made a good long-distance shoot that went only 5 centimetres above the goalpost.But at the tenth minute,Natenoghodi Natena recovered a ball at the deffensive area and ran straight into the deffensive field of the Terre Setemptrionale and crossed to Rhinić,who scored in a heading,the first goal of the Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison this match.On the 12th minute,Slawomir Skrzeszewski pushed Peri Ubiratã Tibiriçá,who happened to be without the ball,inside his own area,and the referee marked a penalty;he himself shot and scored the second goal for Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison.Amelia Zalwowska scored the 4th goal of Terre Setemptrionale on the 15th minute of the second time.Jean-François makes the fifth goal for the Terre Setemptrionale in an incredible heading received from another heading and that was originated from a goal kick on the 29th minute of the second time.Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison scored its third and last goal at the fourty-first minute of the second period,when Rhinić received a cross from Natenaghanagha Natena who carried it all onto the end of the Terre Setemptionale deffending area from his deffensive area.
With this defeat the team now struggles to qualify for the next round,at 6th in the group,with only 3 points.

source:Natanians and Nost press

[Free Republics]

MD6 Results

St. Petrus Group
San Félix 2–0 Tornado Queendom
Starcom Racing 5–5 Tulize
Western Bjornaic 0–1 The Aurian Plains
Bernegastad 1–3 Pius Desurongcrandis

  St. Petrus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 San Félix                           6   5  1  0   15   7  +8   16
2 Starcom Racing                      6   4  1  1   28  18 +10   13*
3 Pius Desurongcrandis                6   3  1  2   11  12  −1   10*
4 The Aurian Plains                   6   2  2  2    9  10  −1    8
5 Tulize                              6   2  2  2   13  16  −3    8
6 Bernegastad                         6   2  1  3    9  10  −1    7
7 Tornado Queendom                    6   1  2  3    9  14  −5    5
8 Western Bjornaic                    6   0  0  6    4  11  −7    0

*Starcom Racing cannot finish worse than 2nd due to their 6-2 head to head win over Pius Desurongcrandis and thus cannot be seeded worse than 10th in the knockout rounds.

St. Paulus Group
Aurevbush 1–1 Bolgano
Abercontin-Jereaux 3–0 San Carlos Islands
Lepolanatnessffiria 1–2 Petrisi
West Phoenicia 1–0 Spensar

  St. Paulus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Abercontin-Jereaux                  6   6  0  0   17   4 +13   18
2 West Phoenicia                      6   5  0  1   16   3 +13   15
3 Bolgano                             6   3  2  1    9   6  +3   11
4 Aurevbush                           6   3  1  2    8   7  +1   10*
5 San Carlos Islands                  6   2  1  3    2  10  −8    7*
6 Petrisi                             6   1  1  4    5  10  −5    4
7 Spensar                             6   1  1  4    7  12  −5    4
8 Lepolanatnessffiria                 6   0  0  6    2  14 −12    0

*Aurevbush would win a potential tiebreaker with San Carlos Islands due to their 2-0 head to head win on MD4.

El Fierro Group
Shatla 3–2 Amurbia
Port Ember 3–0 Saciu
Kandonica 1–0 Caras

  El Fierro Group                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Timuria                             5   5  0  0   13   2 +11   15
2 Port Ember                          5   4  0  1   15   6  +9   12
3 Kandonica                           5   2  1  2    6  13  −7    7
4 Shatla                              5   2  0  3    9  10  −1    6
5 Amurbia                             5   1  2  2   10   9  +1    5
6 Saciu                               5   1  1  3    6  10  −4    4
7 Caras                               6   1  0  5    7  16  −9    3

Los Martires Group
Lavize 0–3 Amuaplye
Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison 3–1 Lashnakia
Orestea 0–2 Terre Septentrionale

  Los Martires Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Hapilopper                          5   5  0  0   20   7 +13   15
2 Terre Septentrionale                6   4  1  1   20  11  +9   13
3 Amuaplye                            5   3  1  1   12   6  +6   10
4 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison      5   2  0  3   12  12   0    6
5 Lavize                              5   2  0  3    8  13  −5    6
6 Orestea                             5   1  0  4    8  19 −11    3
7 Lashnakia                           5   0  0  5    5  17 −12    0

San Hacienda Group
New Karelograd 0–1 The Szcerkina Federacy
The Orion Islands 1–3 Asdia
Zealandiana 1–2 Paratan

  San Hacienda Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bliuji                              5   4  0  1   10   4  +6   12
2 Zealandiana                         5   3  1  1    7   4  +3   10
3 The Szcerkina Federacy              5   2  2  1    7   6  +1    8
4 Asdia                               5   2  1  2    9  10  −1    7
5 Paratan                             6   1  2  3    8  10  −2    5
6 The Orion Islands                   5   1  1  3    6   9  −3    4
7 New Karelograd                      5   1  1  3    3   7  −4    4

Clinched a spot in Round of 16
Clinched at least a spot in Round of 20
Cannot advance to Round of 20

[Port Ember]

Port Ember Times

Another One!!!

Port Ember 3 - Saciu 0

By Erica Davies - Federation of Free Republics.

Port Ember's national football team has grabbed their fourth consecutive international victory, as part of the Baptism of Fire League this thursday, with a emphatic 3-0 final score against Saciu.

The match took place in the Fierro del Infierno Stadium, and the 93,204 seats was filled to capacity, with an enormous turnout from Port Emberian fans, for the fith time in a row. Port Ember has gained a reputation for their passionate supporter base, with most tickets sold in this tournament being to Port Emberian citizens.

Port Ember played an impressive and solid game and any doubt about their skills or resolve has been nullified with their latest performance.

The Port Emberian side was clearly prepared for their game as they were in top form, and their opponents had no awnser to their skills and gameplan.

Port Ember focussed heavily on team play during the match, making a large number of successfull passes during the game, forcing their opponents to run around aimlessly for the entire 90 mimutes, when they barely broke a sweat. The gameplan was slightly different than in previous games, as Port Ember rarely pushed aggressively as they are known for. They instead played a very clinical game, only pushing for a score when their opponents overextended their lines.

After a long period of tiring out their opponents, captain Reddington spotted a gap in the frustrated opponent's lines, and passed hard forward to striker Leon Moult - whom quickly beat his opposing defender with a dribble, and passed hard to fellow striker Danny Nicovic, who made quick work of his own defender as he chased down field, with none left but the keeper. Nicovic charged the keeper and fooled him easily, slotting the ball into the ney with ease in minute 28.

Curiously the exact same tactic was used when Nicovic scored his second goal of the day, with the same supporters, in minute 36.

The second half saw a reemergence from the Saciu side, launching offense after offense in an desperate attempt to get back into the game. This continious assualt continued for almost twenty minutes to no avail, as the Port Emberian backline held firm and stopped all attacks dead in their tracks.

The last goal came when Reddington bombed the ball towards the sticks from midfield - allowing the opponents keeper to easily gain possession of the ball and lunge it deep upfield. This was a carefully prepared sneak attack, as Reddington managed to win the aerial duel of the returning ball, and pass it deep down range. As almost all opposition players were placed midfield for a planned counter attack, Striker Moult had a easy time to chase down the ball, beat his opponent, and shock the keeper with a well placed shot into the bottom corner of the sticks in minute 72. This marvelous goal was even applauded by the Saciu fans.

The rest of the game saw the Port Emberians continue their team play and defencive shutdown until the final whistle ended the match.

An interesting factoid is that Port Emberian coach Stuart Baxter predicted a 3-0 victory in the pre match interview.

This victory has sealed and solidified Port Ember's position in the league as they have secured their place in the upcoming knockout stages, and a guaranteed bye for the Round of 20, qualifying straight for the Round of 16.

---

Match Analysis - Port Ember

The on form Port Emberian side looked solid in this match, and acted a lot calmer amd clinical than before. Their confidemce was clearly boosted from their previous wins, allowing them to act more calm and collected. The previous concern of a weak backline has also been put to rest permanently, as their defence was on top form for two games now, properly rounding out and balancing the team.

---

Player Scores

Goalkeeper (GK)(#1): Peter Smith - 7/10. Had a pretry quite day, only working to save the sticks on four occassions, which he did tremendously all four times, allowing the team to end the match with a clean sheet.

Center Back (CB)(#2): Josh Richards - 7/10. Clearly and finally comfortbale in the backline now. Formed a cohesive and unstoppable defence with the rest of the backline. Improved from previous games, and was quite active.

Center Back (CB)(#3): Jason Lee. 9/10. The Prince of the backline - he defended hard and punishes the opponent's strikers. Were instrumental in forcing a clean sheet for the team, and linked up well with the midfield on many occassions. Well deserved Man of the Match award for his excellent defencive skills

Full Back (LB)(#4): Alex Kuhn - 7/10. Clearly and finally comfortbale in the backline now. Formed a cohesive and unstoppable defence with the rest of the backline. Improved from previous games, and was quite active.

Full Back (RB)(#5): Russel Pierce - 7/10. Clearly and finally comfortbale in the backline now. Formed a cohesive and unstoppable defence with the rest of the backline. Improved from previous games, and was quite active.

Attacking Midfield (AM)(#10): Raymond Reddington - 8/10. The captain again proved his worth on the field. From defence, organising the back line, offense and setting up attacks for his strikers, the lad was everywhere on the field. A true impact player from start to finish.

Defensive Midfield (DM)(#6): Steven Packard - 7/10. Excelled in his midfield role. Lots of future potential, as he displayed all the right moves in the midfield. Instrumental in frustrating and tiring out the opponents with his clinical link up play.

Wide Midfield (LM)(#8): Jason Chamberlain - 7/10. Excelled in his midfield role. Lots of future potential, as he displayed all the right moves in the midfield. Instrumental in frustrating and tiring out the opponents with his clinical link up play.

Wide Midfield (RM)(#11): Steve Rogers - 7/10. Excelled in his midfield role. Lots of future potential, as he displayed all the right moves in the midfield. Instrumental in frustrating and tiring out the opponents with his clinical link up play.

Central Forward (CF)(#7): Leon Moult - 7/10. Used his dribbling skills and superp fitness effectively. The chemistry between him and Nicovic is clearly showing, and is a valuable asset on the field. Scored an impressive goal.

Central Forward (CF)(#9): Danny Nicovic 8/10. As always played an impressive game, outrunning and outsmarting the oppoments midfield and defence. Played a critical role in tiring out the opponents backline. Also scored two very impressive goals in the first half.

Match Stats - Port Ember Point of View

Goals Scored: 3 Total - D. Nicovic x 2; L. Moult x 1

Goals Secceeded: x 1

Man of the Match:Jason Lee

---

After match word from the coach

"I am proud of the lads. We played a calm and collected gameamd it shows on the scoreboard. We also finally managed to completely repair the backline, and they are clearly world standard now. And most impprtantly, we secured a defnitive spot in the knockout stages, with a added bonus of a bye for the Round of 20. Its a glorious and sweet reward for us!"

Current Standings

El Fierro Group                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Timuria                             5   5  0  0   13   2 +11   15
2 Port Ember                          5   4  0  1   15   6  +9   12
3 Kandonica                           5   2  1  2    6  13  −7    7
4 Shatla                              5   2  0  3    9  10  −1    6
5 Amurbia                             5   1  2  2   10   9  +1    5
6 Saciu                               5   1  1  3    6  10  −4    4
7 Caras                               6   1  0  5    7  16  −9    3

Port Ember has secured a garuanteed spot in the Knockout Stages and a bye for the Round of 20.

Next Match

Port Ember will face off next against Amurbia in the Fierro del Infierno Stadium. Coach Baxter has announced the same starting players as before.

[Zealandiana]

Zealandiana's football team today suffer a shame but courageous defeat against it's fivth consecutive macth in front of partan.. the team lost by 1 goal when vinamra kumar accidently got his hand upon a ball giving him a penalty. When the back up came. They slowed down the speed of the team.... No matter better luck next time.....

Team captain RUDRA pathak says"we didn't had hope of losing this macth but still those 40mins matter... Anyway we will still try to change my player's performance and strategy in the next macth."

[Bolgano]

We classify !!!

The goal of the nation to qualify for the next phase of Fire Baptism was achieved and the last date of the Group Phase is expected.

"It was a job well done and this achievement was very important for us, we hope to have a chance to take the Cup" says Lenns Rits coach of Bolgano.

The scorer of the tie Daniels Frizzel said "take the team to this was an honor, put all my performance in that goal for my nation"

It is expected that in the last game a great result will be achieved against the undefeated leaders of our group.

[Terre Septentrionale]

Terre Septentrionale concludes the group stage with another win

Los Martires, Malifornia, Free Republics - On it's final game of the group stage, Terre Septentrionale blanks Orestea 2-0. The Nordiques have accustomed us with strong starts and it wasn't different in this game against Orestea. At the 6th minute, Élisabeth Normandin was dribbling with the ball and she made a long pass to Zbigniew Zajaczkowski who shoots the ball and it's a goal. 1-0 Terre Septentrionale. 4 minutes later, Zdzislaw Brzezanczyk passed to Sarah Surprenant who passed backwards to Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz. Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz dribbled and passed to Amelia Zalwowska who immediatly made a header pass to Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa who heads the ball right into the net and it's another goal for Terre Septentrionale. The score at the halftime was 2-0.

No one scored in the 2nd half but don't think it was boring because it wasn't. The Reprezentacja Nordycki was attacking at the 66th minute when Pawel Wawrzynkiewicz made a cross to Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa who was tripped in the penalty area by Player #2 and it's a penalty. Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa wasn't able to take the penalty so it was taken by Zbigniew Zajaczkowski. Zbigniew Zajaczkowski shoots but Goalkeeper #1 made a fantastic diving save and the score was still 2-0. Terre Septentrionale attacked at the 87th minute when Élisabeth Normandin passed the ball to Tymoteusz Swierczewski but Player #3 intercepts the pass and clear the ball. Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz has the ball and he shoots from 40 meters but the ball goes over the net and hits a seagull who was passing by. The seagull died.

BOXSCORE
6th minute: Zbigniew Zajaczkowski assisted by Élisabeth Normandin
10th minute: Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa assisted by Amelia Zalwowska

YELLOW CARDS
27th minute: Yannick Ksiezniakiewicz
37th minute: Player #6
66th minute: Player #2
79th minute: Charlie MacEachern

RED CARDS
None

Bye week

Terre Septentrionale has a bye on matchday 7 and the team has announced they will not rest. The players will take the time to visit Los Martires and it's many attractions, while the coaches will study videotapes of every teams currently in 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in the standings to be ready for the round of 16. It still not sure if the Northmen will finish in 2nd or 3rd place, it will depend of the game between Amuaplye and Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison. The Coalison would help us if they can beat Amuaplye. By the way, TVSports 1 has announced since Terre Septentrionale has a bye, they'll show this game between Amuaplye and the Coalison. Then I'm not sure how the playoffs works, but I think teams will be seeded based on group stage results with top 2 teams automatically going to the round of 16 and 3rd placed teams have to go through a round of 20.

If you watched the game against Orestea, you probably noticed Fryderyka Cwierczakiewiczowa left the game after being tripped by Player #2. It was a precautious move and she will be cleared to play for the round of 20 if Terre Septentrionale has to go through this round.

Wlodzimierz Pietruszewski,
Senoir writer, La tribune Septentrionale

[West Phoenicia]

With one match left to play against Petrisi, West Phoenician Football fans were in high spirits.
After the one goal win against Spensar, it has cemented their place to progress to the round of 20 and tbey will be moving on.

It would be a dream come through for The Stampedes to take out the Baptism of Fire Cup but they are aware many challenges await them as they take on teams who have also excelled in their grouping. it is only going to get harder from this point in.

Coaching staff have cautioned players not to outdo themselves in the match against Petrisi; win or lose the team will move forward and we want to avoid any injuries. There is no point over doing it, a win tomorrow will still leave us in second place in the grouping due to Abercontin-Jereaux win over us.

The placing has boosted confidence in football fans who see this as the start of regular international football appearances. But they share the reality the world cup is going to be far tougher than the Baptism of Fire Cup, but that won't deter the hard core fans from rallying around their team.

[Hapilopper]

Coliseum of the Crucifixion, Los Martires, Charter Society of Malifornia
Match day six – Hapilopper vs. a bye week
Near the upper reaches of the Coliseum of the Crucifixion, a few members of the Hapilopper National Football Team were taking in the Lavize/Amuaplye match. It might have been the most half-hearted scouting session in recent memory. Some players were glancing over at the match while enjoying the opportunity to socialize with their teammates. Fortunately, not many people were aware of Hapilopper’s presence at the match, or it could have potentially caused a scene. With the impact the Haps had generated in the group stages of the Baptism of Fire, the Hapiloppians had become something of rock stars among the fans that had gathered to watch the tournament both in person and on television.

One of the biggest rock stars, Ernie Stevenson, was not among the group at the Coliseum kind of paying attention to the match. He was with Cooter Harris and members of the Hapiloppian media showing off the HNFT’s new “playoff special” kits that would be worn during the knockout stages of the Baptism of Fire.

The “playoff specials” were a tradition of Hapiloppian sport dating back to the early 1970s when the West Hampton Royals showed up in gaudy baby-blue uniforms, a change from their drab greys, for the NLH baseball championships. Since then, Hapiloppian teams participating in a playoff of some sort have shown up in different, more lively uniforms, than the ones they typically wear for regular-season matchups. The HNFT would be no exception.

“You know, uniforms like this are typically Hapilopper’s way of showing that we’ve made it, and that we’re going to hopefully go far in these playoffs,” Ernie told the reporters. “It’s a little superstition we’ve had as countrymen for much longer than I’ve been around. Kind of like playoff beards in ice hockey.”

The Hapilopper National Football Team unveiled its "Playoff Special" kits during the bye week. From left, the home team kit, the away team kit, and the goalkeeper's kit.

The “playoff specials” were certainly more colorful than the regular-season kits, and within seconds of the unveiling, fans all over Hapilopper were tripping over each other trying to order replica kits to wear as soon as possible. Several websites crashed under the weight of HNFT fans trying to order the kits.

Ernie was asked by the throng of reporters how he thought the HNFT would do in the knockout stage of the Baptism of Fire, and he was rather optimistic, to a point.

“I think we’ll do real well,” he said. “I’m wondering about nations like Timuria, Port Ember, Abercontin-Jereaux and West Phoenicia, not to mention San Felix and Starcom and Bliuji. All of them have real shots to go a long way in this tournament, and we’ll have a real challenge facing any of those nations, probably especially Timuria. They’ve got multiple threats from different areas, and if we’re going to win this, we need to beat them.”

Just as a reporter was about to ask a question, Ernie thought about that answer.

“Come to think of it, we might need to get lucky and have them get knocked off by some fluke before they can get us,” he joked. “The fact is, they’re so good, that we need to play beyond 100 percent if we’re going to beat them. We’ll be watching them carefully for any weaknesses.”

Ernie was also asked about the other teams in his group, notably Terre Septentrionale and Amuaplye, two nations that gave Hapilopper the most trouble during the group phase.

“Well, the Nordiques are a great team,” Ernie said. “We had a real dogfight between the two of us, and it’s fortunate I saw something late in the half that they didn’t fix, so that’s how we broke through. If we played each other 100 times, I guarantee you it’d be a coin flip. They’re a great team and fun to go up against.”

He also had a similar respect for Amuaplye, a team that seemed to bring the Haps to the brink.

“I guarantee you, that was the most exciting match of the entire group phase, bar none,” Ernie said. “That goes for ANYBODY. But for what it’s worth, I worry about them. I’ve heard there’s been some civil unrest there in the last few weeks. There’s been some bombings. People have been killed. I think if they went far here, a lot of people would be cheering them on. They need something to cheer for.”

As the presser ended, the match at the Coliseum, not far away, was also ending. The assorted Hapiloppian players on hand made their way for the exits and started their preparations for the final match of the group phase, this one against Lavize, a team that sat solidly in the middle of the Los Martires group standings.

For the last several days, the Hapiloppians had made the most of the opportunity to rest following a rather intensive schedule of practices, matches and more practices. Instead, players slept in, went to the movies, and watched a handful of the matches on television, while others watched the HASCAR race on HTN’s online streaming service. The bye week meant an opportunity to take a load off and chill, and by the time training resumed the next morning, bright and early, the entire team was in good spirits and well-rested.

There appeared to be smiles on the faces of every single player on the team, especially after having seen the new “playoff specials.” The discontent between a handful of the players had subsided, and the team was starting to operate as a unit. There was also excitement in the fact that all they needed to do in their final group match was just tie Lavize and clinch the group, and they were appearing to be heavy favorites in this match, never mind tying the team, but outright beating them.

After the Lavize match, all the Haps would need to do would be just sit back, see how they get seeded in the knockout stage and then enjoy the round of 20.

[Timuria]

Heroic Goalkeeping Clinches 3 Points

by Tufan Nursultan

Amurbia 0-1 Timuria
Vatan Ercetin (9)

An early goal from Vatan Ercetin playing as a shadow striker to cover for the injured Ertan Renda and heroic goalkeeping from backup keeping Iskender Nur secured the national teams 5th win in a row. While an unfortunate injury to Hakan Diren will see him miss the final group game, as the injury bug struck yet again.

The game began as an analogy for how the tournament has gone so far for the national team, with the national team getting the best of the exchanges. The national team dominated the first 10 minutes, crowned with a goal from the edge of the box by a red hot Vatan Ercetin. The national team would continue this pressure for the next 20 minutes, attack after attack was either squandered by wasteful finishing or thwarted by the determined defence of Amurbia.

The lack of success offensively gave way to a series of Amurbian attack over the reamining 60 minutes, an hour of siege with Timuria unable to muster anything more than a token attack. This began with Ismail Burhan losing the ball at the edge of the Amurbian box, leading to a counter attack that was ended by a stunning save by Iskender Nur, the backup goalkeeper replacing Saban Inekci.

Substitutes in the form of Mehmet Karaman and Caner Turan failed to liven up a stifled offence as the second half progressed. Though Mehmet Karaman was able to provide a different kind of threat to Ismail Burhan who will be sorely disappointed after he claimed on social media that he would be staking his claim to a starting spot on the team. Caner Turan also failed to carry on his fine form from previous substitute appearances.

The win has all but confirmed that the national team will advance at the top of the group, Bekir Altingunes will be playing a significantly different team from his first choice selection with the continued absence of Saban Inekci and the new addition of Hakan Diren to the injury list. Ertan Renda will return as Iskender Nur will continue in goal and Atilla Acar will take over for Hakan Diren.

What they said after the game:

Atilla Acar: "Getting on the pitch was obviously a dream come true, I just hope that I can build on this in the next match and that Hakan has a swift recovery."

Iskender Nur: "If I had one thing to say to the fans? Party at our training facility. No but seriously I'm just happy we got out of there with the win."

Vatan Ercetin: "This isn't about me, it's about the team. Me getting the goals is just a bonus, one I enjoy profoundly, but it's not the main point."

Ratings:

Iskender Nur 9/10 - An astounding performance from the youngster in relief of Saban Inekci, will have proven a lot of his doubters wrong.

Ozbek Sarikaya 7/10 - A solid performance with few mistakes for the full back who struggled early on in the tournament.

Tuna Rustemoglu 7/10 - Another solid performer on the backline, providing cover for Iskender Nur when he really needed it.

Osman Hasanoglu 7/10 - Was able to acquit himself very well in defensive duties, but was also a rare sight of positive play.

Gokdeniz Dag 6/10 - Gokdeniz was the source of much of the pressure that was applied to the national team. He will need to improve.

Hakan Diren 7/10 - Prior to his injury he was an energetic dynamo in the midfield, no one would have guessed he's 32.

Yusuf Ihsanoglu 7/10 - Yet another strong performance which we've come to expect. That doesn't make them any less impressive.

Tekin Yavuz 6/10 - Both wingers struggles to get any kind of time on the ball. This will concern Bekir Altingunes

Vatan Ercetin 8/10 - Playing in an unfamiliar position can often derail a player's form, but Vatan still produced the goods when needed.

Tayyar Ozel 6/10 - Yet another struggler in the wide areas, was replaced by Caner.

Ismail Burhan 5/10 - Inaccurate, accident prone, nervous. These are just some of the words that can describe Ismail Burhan's performance. It was subpar at best and he will rightly be relegated back to the bench.

Subs:

Atilla Acar 6/10 - Did an acceptable job in relief of Hakan Diren following his injury.

Mehmet Karaman 6/10 - Managed to cut out the unforced errors of Ismail Burhan which ultimately stabilised the team.

Caner Turan 6/10 - Struggled to make any kind of meaningful impact.

Man of the Match: Iskender Nur - The 18 year old looked an odd pick for the national team, but he didn't look out of place during the match. An exceptional performance.

Next Match: The final game of the group stages will be against Shatla, who will know they can advance to the knockouts with a win against that national team so this is a noteworthy and important match for all involved.

-----

Exclusive Interview With Bekir Altingunes Summary

by Sibel Tarhan

Sibel Tarhan: I'm here at the national team's training facility with the manager Bekir Altingunes. The national team were the first team to qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament and have so far gone on an impressive run of form. Bekir, how does it feel to be the first team to confirm its place in the knockout stages?

Bekir Altingunes: Obviously I'm very pleased, because that means we can begin to manage the squad a little bit, give some games to other players to see what they have to offer in meaningful matches. After all we still need to ensure that we're a top seed.

ST: Just how important is it for the team to be a top seed, psychologically or otherwise?

BA: Honestly a part of it is down to luck, in terms of the makeup of the group, some groups have proven to be stronger and more even than others. So we wont take it too seriously beyond avoiding the round of 20.

ST: Why do you think it's important to avoid the round of 20?

BA: Well to put it simply, we want to make sure this team is as fit as possible and that's easier with a less intense schedule.

ST: So it's nothing to do with confidence or generating momentum?

BA: Those are bonuses rather than the objective. Honestly we don't really know how good each group is relative to each other, so once we're out of it, we're back to taking it a game at a time as we have been the whole time.

ST: So what about the offensive problems the team seems to be going through right now?

BA: I don't know where this idea has come from, sometimes players struggle. It doesn't mean there's a systematic problem, plus we're still winning.

ST: But you do admit there's a problem?

BA: I think some players have allowed success to go to their heads, but it's my job to keep them planted firmly on the ground and I will do that.

ST: So what is it like knowing you could be perfect in the group stages?

BA: I think it's a reflection of the players more than me. Honestly the way these guys work, whether their performances are world class or lacking, inspires me.

ST: I think they'll appreciate hearing that. Bekir, good luck.

BA: Thank you.

ST: We're obviously rooting for you to go all the way to the final, best of luck and thank you for your time.

BA: No problem.

[Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison]

Despair and Hard Times (ahead)

Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison is in a delicate situation.The team needs a combination of results to advance to the knock-out stage of the BoF.The team has 6 points,the same as Lavize.To advance,Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison must hope for the game between Lavize and Hapilopper to not end in a victory for Lavize,and in the case of a draw,to not lose to Amuaplye.In the case Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison defeats Amuaplye and Lavize defeats Hapilopper,then Cheetahs and reptiles Coalison is out.

source:Natanians and Nost press

[Saintland]

MD7 Results

St. Petrus Group
Pius Desurongcrandis 1–3 San Félix
The Aurian Plains 0–1 Bernegastad
Tulize 0–0 Western Bjornaic
Tornado Queendom 2–3 Starcom Racing

  St. Petrus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 San Félix                           7   6  1  0   18   8 +10   19
2 Starcom Racing                      7   5  1  1   31  20 +11   16
3 Pius Desurongcrandis                7   3  1  3   12  15  −3   10*
4 Bernegastad                         7   3  1  3   10  10   0   10*
5 Tulize                              7   2  3  2   13  16  −3    9
6 The Aurian Plains                   7   2  2  3    9  11  −2    8
7 Tornado Queendom                    7   1  2  4   11  17  −6    5
8 Western Bjornaic                    7   0  1  6    4  11  −7    1

*Pius Desurongcrandis finishes 3rd due to 3-1 head to head win over Bernegastad.

St. Paulus Group
Spensar 1–0 Aurevbush
Petrisi 0–2 West Phoenicia
San Carlos Islands 0–0 Lepolanatnessffiria
Bolgano 1–3 Abercontin-Jereaux

  St. Paulus Group                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Abercontin-Jereaux                  7   7  0  0   20   5 +15   21
2 West Phoenicia                      7   6  0  1   18   3 +15   18
3 Bolgano                             7   3  2  2   10   9  +1   11
4 Aurevbush                           7   3  1  3    8   8   0   10
5 San Carlos Islands                  7   2  2  3    2  10  −8    8
6 Spensar                             7   2  1  4    8  12  −4    7
7 Petrisi                             7   1  1  5    5  12  −7    4
8 Lepolanatnessffiria                 7   0  1  6    2  14 −12    1

El Fierro Group
Saciu 0–1 Kandonica
Amurbia 1–5 Port Ember
Timuria 2–0 Shatla

  El Fierro Group                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Timuria                             6   6  0  0   15   2 +13   18
2 Port Ember                          6   5  0  1   20   7 +13   15
3 Kandonica                           6   3  1  2    7  13  −6   10
4 Shatla                              6   2  0  4    9  12  −3    6
5 Amurbia                             6   1  2  3   11  14  −3    5
6 Saciu                               6   1  1  4    6  11  −5    4
7 Caras                               6   1  0  5    7  16  −9    3

Los Martires Group
Lashnakia 1–0 Orestea
Amuaplye 3–2 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison
Hapilopper 3–0 Lavize

  Los Martires Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Hapilopper                          6   6  0  0   23   7 +16   18
2 Terre Septentrionale                6   4  1  1   20  11  +9   13*
3 Amuaplye                            6   4  1  1   15   8  +7   13*
4 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison      6   2  0  4   14  15  −1    6
5 Lavize                              6   2  0  4    8  16  −8    6
6 Lashnakia                           6   1  0  5    6  17 −11    3**
7 Orestea                             6   1  0  5    8  20 −12    3**

*Terre Septentrionale and Amuaplye drew 1-1 in their head to head meeting.  Terre Septentrionale finishes 2nd on overall goal difference.
**Lashnakia finishes 6th due to 1-0 head to head win over Orestea.

San Hacienda Group
Asdia 1–3 Zealandiana
The Szcerkina Federacy 1–1 The Orion Islands
Bliuji 1–0 New Karelograd

  San Hacienda Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bliuji                              6   5  0  1   11   4  +7   15
2 Zealandiana                         6   4  1  1   10   5  +5   13
3 The Szcerkina Federacy              6   2  3  1    8   7  +1    9
4 Asdia                               6   2  1  3   10  13  −3    7
5 The Orion Islands                   6   1  2  3    7  10  −3    5*
6 Paratan                             6   1  2  3    8  10  −2    5*
7 New Karelograd                      6   1  1  4    3   8  −5    4

*The Orion Islands finish 5th due to 4-3 head to head win over Paratan.

---

Seeding Table

Seeding Table                        Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
 1 Hapilopper                          6   6  0  0   23   7 +16   18
 2 Abercontin-Jereaux                  6   6  0  0   20   5 +15   18
 3 Timuria                             6   6  0  0   15   2 +13   18
 4 San Félix                           6   5  1  0   18   8 +10   16
 5 Bliuji                              6   5  0  1   11   4  +7   15
 6 West Phoenicia                      6   5  0  1   18   3 +15   15
 7 Port Ember                          6   5  0  1   20   7 +13   15
 8 Starcom Racing                      6   4  1  1   31  20 +11   13
 9 Terre Septentrionale                6   4  1  1   20  11  +9   13
10 Zealandiana                         6   4  1  1   10   5  +5   13
11 Amuaplye                            6   4  1  1   15   8  +7   13
12 Kandonica                           6   3  1  2    7  13  −6   10
13 The Szcerkina Federacy              6   2  3  1    8   7  +1    9
14 Bolgano                             6   2  2  2   10   9  +1    8
15 Pius Desurongcrandis                6   2  1  3   12  15  −3    7
16 Aurevbush                           6   2  1  3    8   8   0    7
17 Bernegastad                         6   2  1  3   10  10   0    7
18 Asdia                               6   2  1  3   10  13  −3    7
19 Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison      6   2  0  4   14  15  −1    6
20 Shatla                              6   2  0  4    9  12  −3    6

---

Round of 20

13) The Szcerkina Federacy v. 20) Shatla @ Royal Stadium, St. Petrus, Saintland
16) Aurevbush v. 17) Bernegastad @ Via Damascus Stadium, St. Paulus, Saintland
15) Pius Desurongcrandis v. 18) Asdia @ Fierro del Infierno Stadium, El Fierro, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics
14) Bolgano v. 19) Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison @ Coliseum of the Crucifixion, Los Martires, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics

Round of 16

1) Hapilopper v. Aurevbush/Bernegastad winner @ Royal Stadium, St. Petrus, Saintland
8) Starcom Racing v. 9) Terre Septentionale @ Royal Stadium, St. Petrus, Saintland
5) Bliuji v. 12) Kandonica @ Via Damascus Stadium, St. Paulus, Saintland
4) San Félix v. The Szcerkina Federacy/Shatla winner @ Via Damascus Stadium, St. Paulus, Saintland
3) Timuria v. Bolgano/Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalison winner @ Coliseum of the Crucifixion, Los Martires, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics
6) West Phoenicia v. 11) Amuaplye @ Barteaux Stadium, San Hacienda, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics
7) Port Ember v. 10) Zealandiana @ Barteaux Stadium, San Hacienda, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics
2) Abercontin-Jereaux v. Pius Desurongcrandis/Asdia winner @ Fierro del Infierno Stadium, El Fierro, Malifornia Charter Society, Free Republics

[Zealandiana]

Zealandiana yesterday win with 2 goals in front of asdia. The macth had a rain disturbance due to monsoon showers.the engulfed itself in happiness by making a place in round of 16. The team mid-keeper pratim made a self game by scoring 2 goals in second half.the win made Twitter with a bulk of tweets....

Ashish mehta

"Its crazy dude....we seriously won the macth with no difficulties.....good luck in round of 16!!!"
@Rudra Pathak, @ZFT, @WC'83


The team is now practicing for it's two way macth with port ember at barteaux stadium in free republic's.. 40% of the tickets are already booked at what we need to see is who wins in the macth... The last chance for zealandiana for getting a place in seminar...good luck zealandiana.

[Bolgano]

Bolgano 1-3 Abercontin-Jereaux

Congratulating the rivals as they were one of the three undefeated teams, but Bolgano took the lead at 5 minutes with Martin Liovani but sadly the advantage was in the second time.

His rivals in the round of 20 will be Cheetahs and Reptiles Coalision.