Copa Rushmori XXXV - Everything Thread

[Mavinet]

© Dai Hoa Times
Copa Rushmori 35: Second first step for Mavinet's national team
by Ho Dai Quang, Associate Sports Editor

---

It's been long enough from Mavinet's first runs in international football tournaments that we can now look back and ask this question: Did Mavinet have a a good introduction to the world's football scene? Each person, depending on their level of expectation, will have their own answer to that. A common ground everyone can accept is Mavinet's national team got a lot out of the experience, playing against some of the best teams in the world while also learning from some of the most notable up-and-coming teams. It's important to remember not just the amazing feeling of watching the young players of the U-18 and U-21 teams pushing further than expectations or the triumphant parade in the center of Dai Hoa after our team won the Baptism of Fire, but also the bitterness of defeats in the Copa Rushmori 34 or the World Cup 85 Qualifiers. If anything, those failures taught the Mavinese players and coaches far more than the sweet victories ever could.

With that in mind, the Mavinese national football team have gathered everything they learned from the first international cylce and ready to head into the second cycle. The curtain raiser for the senior national team's cycle will be the regional Copa Rushmori, this year being its 35th edition. Astograth and Savojarna are co-hosting this year's tournament, marking the fifth time the regional cup happens in more than one nation. The distance between the two hosts are quite a way apart from each other but teams don't have to travel between places in the two countries until the knockout stage, so that takes off a bit of burden from teams who are wary of the long distance travel.

Who will Mavinet face in the upcoming tournament? Coming to Virkaja and Hovikkara with Mavinet will be Oberour Ar Moro, Pridnestrovia, Ancharmunn and defending champions Eura. This will be the second time Mavinet have to face the defending champions of the Copa Rushmori, and many Mavineses will hope the encounter will not be as disastrous as last time's 0-8 humiliation against Pasarga in Eastfield Lodge. The Water Buffaloes will begin their campaign with the match against Pridnestrovia, who enjoy close proximity to Savojarna, and definitely will have an easier time adjusting without the jet lag.

After several weeks of preparation and finalization of the roster, the national team departed Van Xuan International Airport yesterday heading to Valladares for their layover, before landing in Savojarna just one week before the start of the tournament. The team will spend one day recovering from travel fatigue and sightsee the city of Virkaja, known for its beautiful natural environment and the Northern Sumani Dragon Park, where the Sumani Forest Dragons are protected and maintained.

An exciting start to Mavinet's second cycle is coming. The Water Buffaloes will need a strong second first step to keep up the work they have been building so far.

---

Mavinet's fixtures in the Copa Rushmori 35
MD1: Pridnestrovia vs Mavinet
MD2: Bye
MD3: Mavinet vs Ancharmunn
MD4: Oberour ar Moro vs Mavinet
MD5: Mavinet vs Eura

[Astograth]

The Astograthian National Football Team

All white away, all olive green home, all blue third

Style: -2
Formation: 4-2-3-1, see below for potential variations
Nickname: Olibondeka (The Olives)
Captain: Indartsu Lekea
Vicecaptain: Mogel Doyenard
Free Kick Taker: Azeari Duarte
Penalty Taker: Yasone Urdanibia

Manager - Louis Vaudrail (Sicoutimont) - Age 66

Louis Vaudrail has had a storied managerial career, and as his last job before retirement has taken charge of the Astograthian national team since the start of World Cup 85. Once manager of Nordique Val-Maurice in his homeland of Sicoutimont, Vaudrail's first experience in Astograth was many years ago with Gesterlake FC, where a talented squad that included Sicoutian NT forward Georges Allonts took the club to heights never seen before or since, including qualification to the Globe Cup. In the relaunched Astograthian First Division, his success at Athletic Club Olarria landed him the job at the powerful Royal Rumiatzi where, in 4 seasons at the club, he won a Royal Cup and a long-awaited league title.

Vaudrail is Astograth's third foreign manager history, after the successful tenure of World Cup Hall of Famer Powell Pieran, from Civil Citizenry, and the less successful spell of Sir James Handel, from Yesopalitha. The team's performance in World Cup 85 qualifying, coming out of Pot 11 to finish 4th and nearly qualified, followed by a semi-final run at Cup of Harmony 77, have branded Vaudrail's tenure so far a smashing success, with pundits and players attributing their game to the manager's meticulous, months-in-advance preparation for fixtures. His selection for the Copa Rushmori is quite different to that from the qualifiers and Cup of Harmony, in an attempt to cycle out older players and seek out the new generation of Astograthian football.

Vaudrail will most likely line up with a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation, with two defensive midfielders and wingers that can be shifted up or down the pitch as the situation demands. Though having shot up from 303rd to 58th in the KPB rankings in the span of one cycle, Astograth are still well outside the elite. Therefore, Vaudrail will be maintaining their conservative, possession-minded approach. If facing opposition against whom possession can't be achieved, then the plan will likely be to fall back into a 4-2-3-1 diamond and play for counter-attacks. If feeling adventurous, the team may change into a standard 4-4-2 or 4-4-2 diamond may be deployed - Vaudrail has plenty of talented players on the bench which to experiment with.

Assistant Manager - Ibai Kiriano - Age 49
Second all-time top scorer for the national team, with 56 goals in 107 appearances, Ibai Kiriano was a formidable striker in his day, even winning the UICA Champions' Cup with Ituraitz FC. Now in management, formerly as assistant to failed NT boss Iban Bachiondo, Kiriano is enraptured with Vaudrail's approach to the game and does his all to ensure the players are following the Sicoutian's carefully laid out plans.

Starting XI:

#1 - GK – Gentza Bedigax - Age 30 - FC Felsenkirchen 1879 (Siovanija and Teusland) - 7 caps, 3 clean sheets
Bedigax initially impressed in the Astograthian First Division by being one of the reasons that the unfancied Erribe United remained in the top flight during their début season, and continued that form at Urbizania Wanderers by winning the league and consistently being one of the least-beaten keepers in the competition. Now playing for one of Siovanija and Teusland's top teams and with some caps under his belt, he is the designated replacement for the retired Aratz Anzizar and will be looking to establish himself as starter.

#5 - LB – Marko Martel - Age 23 – Lajuno (Eura) - 21 caps, 1 goal
Martel is one of Astograth's most exciting players. Bursting onto the scene at just 18 years old, he was part of Sporting Ibarguren's Royal Cup-winning team, beating Urbizania Wanderers in the final despite being a second-tier side. Swiftly transferred to giants Sporting Iturributa, he was part of a league-winning squad but, frustrated at the lack of playing time, forced his move to Athletic Club Olarria, where more strong performances earned him a place on the national team and on the famous Galácticos shortlist. Nothing if not ambitious, he has now secured a move to the Euraleague and displaced Remondegi as starter for Olibondeka - how much farther can he go?

#2 - CB - Mogel Doyenard (VC) - Age 29 – Sporting Iturributa - 52 caps, 5 goals
Doyenard is, by consensus, the best Astograthian defender currently playing. Sporting Iturributa are on a seemingly unstoppable run of three league titles in a row; the key to that is their impenetrable defence, from which they build and control the match. Doyenard has been the core of that defence for nearly a decade, and commands respect throughout the league. Measuring 193 cm, he's also a valuable asset in attacking corners, especially when the opposition proves hard to beat in open play.

#18 - CB - Ugaitz Leskerre - Age 30 - Lajuno (Eura) - 38 caps
Despite a low public profile, Leskerre has established himself in one of the best leagues in the world at Eura's Lajuno, which has a proud tradition of sourcing Astograthian talent. Having also played for Pasarga's Paulinthal FC, Leskerre's international club experience is a valuable asset for a squad that has, for the most part, little exposure to the best teams and players in the multiverse. His partnership with Doyenard has developed into one of the team's most important components.

#16 - RB – Ixaka Echeberz - Age 27 - AC Izotz Zubia (Audioslavia) - 13 caps, 1 goal
Echeberz is a solid, reliable player who can stay in defense or move forward into a more modern wing-back role. An important player for Urbizania Wanderers, his performances for the national team have caught the eye of the powerful Izotz Zubia, securing him an unexpected transfer to the Audioslavian National League. This has also convinced Vaudrail of giving him the starting spot ahead of the more experienced Cheru Lizarza - can Echeberz live up to the now massive expectations on his shoulders, or will the pressure be too much?

#14 - DM – Indartsu Lekea (C) - Age 30 - AFC Corvistone (Nephara) - 46 caps, 4 goals
Lekea has had a successful career away from Astograthian shores, after departing from Athletic Club Rumiatzi while still a teenager. Previously at Apox's Barbury Town, he is one of two Astograthian players plying his trade in the top-ranked Nepharan Premiership. With his extensive experience outside the country, something generally lacking in the rest of the team, Lekea has the squad and the manager's confidence to serve as captain of the team, taking over from the retired Baleren Narke. He'll be expected to be the primary agent in stopping attacks through the middle, backing up Gurina in controlling possession through the middle of the pitch

#6 - DM - Gaitzka Gurina - Age 26 - Sporting Iturributa - 30 caps, 3 goals
Gurina has established himself over the last few years as a key player for Astograth and Sporting Iturributa. Coming out of the youth system of Ituraitz Victory, Gurina has proven to be dogged in defense and cerebral in attack, and Vaudrail has singled him out as the team's metronome and crucial to the success of the 4-2-3-1 formation. His first team status above the likes of the more veteran Beltza Urkizo caused some rather public drama in the team's previous run, with Urkizo accusing that a posse from Sporting has too much influence in the squad. True or not, he's out of Olibondeka.

#11 - LM - Iraunkor Berdesagar - Age 30 - Scaffield (Brenecia) - 35 caps, 5 goals
A product of East Railway's youth system, Berdesagar left the country in search of better opportunities and found it in Brenecia's Gallant Cross. He stuck them through thick and thin, including several years in the second tier, before earning a move to Scaffield. Despite stiff competition, Berdesagar has earned and maintained a starting spot on Olibondeka, as both a capable midfielder and a serious attacking threat. Able to play on the left or right wings or as a central attacking midfielder, Berdesagar can be a chameleon on the pitch, confounding anyone sent to man-mark him.

#10 - RM – Ihazintu Malkorra - Age 28 - Aries Chariots (Nephara) – 33 caps, 6 goals
Malkorra, voted three times best right winger in the First Division, was a youth product of Miners FC before signing with Royal Association and eventually cross-town rivals Sporting Iturributa, emerging as one of Astograth's brightest talents - his dribbling is mesmerising, and can flow freely from center midfield to the back to up on attack as the situation requires. In the Nepharan Premiership, he was one of the bright spots in Vermillion Wanderers' relegation season, earning himself a move to Aries Chariots.

#8 - AM – Azeari Duarte - Age 31 - Royal Rumiatzi – 38 caps, 7 goals
Duarte is widely recognised as the best creative player in the Astograthian league and chief architect of Royal Rumiatzi's successes over the past decade. Over the years he has demonstrated immense vision in providing assists and occasionally get himself on the scoresheet as well. His partnership with Urdanibia at club and international level is one of Astograth's greatest assets. Duarte is one of the team's most media-present faces, and carries a lot of pressure on his back.

#9 - CF - Yasone Urdanibia - Age 33 - Royal Rumiatzi - 51 caps, 21 goals
A seven-time First Division top scorer, Urdanibia originally came through the youth system of Rumiatzi 529 and got his first big-time opportunity with Oyardo FC. After scoring 19 goals in 24 matches in the first season of the reinaugurated First Division, he was quickly snapped up by Royal Rumiatzi and, despite a rocky start, has established himself as the league's premier striker and the best local forward of his generation. Relies on the midfield to set up his chances, but is absolutely lethal with his feet and head - and looking to make his mark with Olibondeka before the years pass him by. His game-winning strike against Audioslavia during WC85 qualifying has already gone down as one of the great moments in team history.

Substitutes:

#13 - GK – Aurre Laurnagaray - Age 27 - Athletic Club Olarria - 1 cap
Olarria's Aurre Laurnegaray earned himself a call-up for the last qualifiers through strong form in being one of the least-beaten goalkeepers of the last few seasons, ahead of the more fancied Bihar Raldua from Ituraitz. He has so far featured in one match, a 2-1 qualifying win over Necosia, and will be looking to establish himself in the team in a similar fashion to his older brother Egoitz, now internationally retired.

#23 - GK – Bihar Raldua - Age 27 - Ituraitz FC - Uncapped
Raldua was called up to the national team for the disastrous World Cup 83 qualifying campaign, where Astograth finished bottom of the table without a single win. He didn't earn any caps there which, on the upside, means he can't take responsibility for those results. He sat out the last qualifiers due to Aurre Laurnagaray replacing him as third keeper, but now back on the squad Raldua is hoping his superior club-level pedigree can count for something.

#4 - LB - Urre Remondegi - Age 30 - Urbizania Wanderers - 34 caps, 1 goal
Three-time best left-back of the First Division, Remondegi first caught the eye playing for Oyardo FC, later making his way to Ituraitz FC. Gorriaka went on to clinch the club's record-breaking ninth league title and the Royal Cup in their centenary year, prompting Wanderers to make a big-money bid for Remondegi, where he's continued to perform at a high level. Resilient and dynamic, he's a versatile player that can play from the back, further up the wing or even shifted to defensive midfield if required. Displaced to the bench in favour of rising star Marko Martel, but still a quality option.

#12 - CB - Alarabi Labeaga - Age 22 - Mâ Âlâmëómë (Farfadillis) - Uncapped
An impetuous young talent, Labeaga came through the youth ranks of Urbizania Wanderers, rapidly making his way to the first team at age 18 and featuring in their title-winning run of 680. Vaudrail, then manager of Royal Rumiatzi, arranged their purchase of Labeaga but was unable to control the centre-back's ego and demands for a starting spot. Forcing a move abroad, he was able to land at the renowned Mâ Âlâmëómë of Farfadillis and immediately won a league title. Now believes himself to be God's gift to defending and truly is too talented to be denied a call-up by Vaudrail, but starters Doyenard and Leskerre are strongly entrenched in the team and Labeaga could prove a disruptive influence if he isn't brought to heel.

#3 - RB – Cheru Lizarza - Age 28 - Ituraitz FC - 30 caps, 1 goal
Lizarza is a solid if unspectacular full-back that initially came through at Oyardo and then moved to Eshan's Gracemeria, before returning to reinforce the most feared defense in Astograth at Sporting Iturributa. In recent years he has established himself as one of, if not the, best right-back in the Astograthian league, and controversially just let his contract expire at Sporting in order to accept Ituraitz FC's offer of mammoth wages.

#15 - DM – Domiku Bergara - Age 26 - AC Izotz Zubia (Audioslavia) - Uncapped
Hardworking Bergara was spotted as a sharp talent at a young age, with Urbizania Wanderers shelling out a big wad of cash to sign him from Iturributa United at age 21. Since then he's been an ever-present starter for Wanderers, taking part in their wins of a league title and a Royal Cup, but has come to believe his ceiling lies beyond the confines of the Astograthian First Division. Striking out, he's joined fellow Wanderer Ixaka Echeberz in signing for Audioslavia's AC Izotz Zubia, and now finds himself on Olibondeka with a huge chance to make his mark. An elegant, patient player skilled in both defence and with the ball, he can be a good substitute for either Lekea or Gurina.

#22 - CM - Baraxil Muhaburu - Age 22 - Rülândéá Kôstä (Farfadillis) - Uncapped
A youth product of Garitzeta Racing Club, Muhaburu was set to break into the first team when Racing took a deep dive into the Second DIvision. Setting his sights elsewhere, Muhaburu landed in Farfadillis, signing for Rülândéá Kôstä and integrating quite seamlessly into the squad as they marched to Challengers' Cup qualification. Vaudrail is eager to see what he can do for Astograth, given his good vision and passing technique, and ability to get forward to score or take set pieces.

#17 - LM - Koldo Ibargengoitia - Age 27 - Usmer (Eura) - 17 caps
An exciting winger who can be played out wide, made to cut inside or, in a pinch, deployed in centre midfield. Capable of scoring but far better as a creative outlet. Sgned for Eura's Usmer after dazzling at Oyardo FC, Astograth University and Ituraitz FC, but has yet to truly shine for Olibondeka... and must be wondering how many more chances he'll get.

#19 - RM - Zilar Galharretborde - Age 22 - Langlois Océanic (Kelssek) - Uncapped
Galharretborde came through the youth ranks of Royal Arexa, and thanks to a wily agent and a leap of faith, he managed to land a move to Kelssek's Langlois Océanic. In his first season he impressed, earning the league's Young Player award and catching the eye of the national team in the process. He may not be the fastest or most technical player, but he is very good at stretching the field of play by building up moves from the wing, playing fluid football with his full-back and centre midfield. A markedly different style to Malkorra, providing some tactical flexibility.

#21 - AM - Uzuri Borthagaray - Age 24 - Antiguoko FC - Uncapped
Antiguoko FC have quietly and steadily gone from a struggling yo-yo club to a solid mid-table side in the Astograthian First Division, not least because they've put their faith in a generation of young, talented players that include Borthagaray and the also-summoned Olentzaro Karazatorre. Though far from the level of veteran attacking midfielders like Azeari Duarte, Gero Sorrosua and Emenon Ulibarri, Borthagaray has the potential to grow into their equal - or more - and Vaudrail is prepared to give him that chance.

#7 - CF - Yokin Arana - Age 27 - Bayern-Algaer (Taeshan) - 16 caps, 4 goals
Formerly a key component for Iturributa United's lean goalscoring machine, Arana's good performances for the national team have won him a transfer to the Taeshani league's storied Bayern-Algaer. Despite not being a physical player he is quite capable of finding space in tight defenses, and is notable for seeing beyond his own boots and playing smart assists rather than going for goal himself. Left-footed and sometimes deployed as an inside forward on the right wing, Arana is an interesting variant at Vaudrail's disposal, and has earned something of a reputation as a good substitute.

#20 - CF – Olentzaro Karazatorre - Age 23 - Ituraitz FC - Uncapped
Karazatorre, one-time winner of the First Division's Young Player award, became known to the Astograthian public at age 20 with aplomb. He banged in 13 goals in a season for the modest Antiguoko FC as they finished in 10th place, then 15 as they climbed to 8th, then 19 goals - Karazatorre has all the makings of the next great Astograthian forward, as the previous stalwarts age past 30. Recognising this, Ituraitz FC have splurged to sign him and Vaudrail has called him up for the Copa Rushmori. Not as tall as Urdanibia or as fast as Arana, but gifted with a great sense of positioning to sneak past and appear where defenders don't expect or want him. Has a well-established partnership with Uzuri Borthagaray from their time at Antiguoko.

Team records
Year founded: 636 (pre-World Cup 55)
All-time record: 509 matches played: 236 wins, 125 draws, 148 losses
All-time goal difference: +187
Most caps: Soter Sarlange (200)
Most goals: Soter Sarlange (89)
Most clean sheets: Zernin Aira (39)
First international: Astograth 1–2 Eastfield Lodge (pre-World Cup 55)
Largest win: Astograth 10–1 Melbergia (World Cup 58 qualifying)
Worst loss: Eura 7–0 Astograth (pre-World Cup 85)
World Cup finals appearances: 6 (first at World Cup 57)
World Cup best result: 4th place, World Cup 61
Highest KPB ranking: 9th, post-World Cup 61
Tournaments won: Cup of Harmony 50, Copa Rushmori XII

RP Permissions are yes to everything that isn't career-ending. I encourage TGs for questions or collaborative RP.

[Taeshan]

Nation Name:Taeshan
Demonym: Taeshanis, Taeshites, Taes
Team Nickname: Purple Knights
Modifier: -5
Captain: Shiloh Morgenstern
Vice-Captain: Daigo Coshan

Jerseys



MANAGERIAL STAFF
Manager: Miles Snavely
Well it wasn't it wasn't the World Cup they had imagined after a good qualifying campaign, but the World Cup often is about the Group you are drawn in and Kelssek, Equestria, and The Holy Empire was one of the worst case scenarios the Knights could have had to face. Now they look close to home as they head to Savojarna in Group B of the Copa Rushmori. The closest possible setting to home, St Andrei and Pawlograd should be relatively familiar to Knights fans. For Snavely he is looking to get a big trophy in what could be his final chance at a Copa, and at a World Cup for his country.

GOALKEEPERS

1 – Florian Wagner – Capetown Crocs 65 Caps, 0 Goals, 20 Years Old
For as much as the offense was noticeably absent in the World Cup finals the defense also let in four goals in 3 games. A strange occurence for the Taeshan national team, but young Goalkeeper Florian Wagner had to make a lot of saves as a rather less than stellar performance from the defense had Miles Snavely pulling what is left of his hair out and Vice-Captain Daigo Coshan leaving his final World Cup with more anger than the tears in his eyes.

12 – Emmit Nickleby – Taeshan City Miners 0 Caps, 18 Years Old
A first time call-up for Taeshan City Goalkeeper Nickleby sees him the likely third string with Wagner and Leyton both having strong performances recently. With Capetown in Challenger's Cup and New Capetown answering decades of fans' frustration with their first good season since the 40's, Nickleby has a tough hill to climb if he hopes for national team appearances.

24– Isaac Leyton – New Capetown Falcons 0 Caps, 21 Years Old
A stronger season for New Capetown and much of it was due to Isaac Leyton as the team's goals against was 5th best in the league. I mean Delaclav teammates Rhydian Campbell proved a revolution for the team, while Leyton's turn in form proved to be a revelation.

DEFENDERS
4 - CB, Liam McKenzie - Yaton FC 19 Caps, 1 goal, 24 Years Old
A year removed from a title Liam finally gets his chance to start in the middle of the back for as Yoshimi moves back to the defensive midfield he is more comfortable in and the speedy center back jumps into the lineup. With 2 seasons of international club football behind him now McKenzie is no stranger to the nature of important international fixtures and that could be a key component if the Knights are to make a return to the knockout rounds at this Copa Rushmori.

20- CB, Foster Benjamin - Wolfin Wolves 100 Caps, 11 goals, 18 Years Old
Where Liam McKenzie joins the starting lineup with almost 20 caps to his name over 4 seasons of internaitonal call-ups, and years of experience with Yaton in Champions' Cup and Challengers' Cup, Foster Benjamin is a completely different story. The hulking Wolfin center back is the first starter from his club ever for the national team and the game against Pasarga on matchday 2 will mark his first Cap. Out of the frying pan and into the flames with that first ever match for the Knights.

22 - RB, Sullivan Garrett - Moresville FC 38 Caps, 0 Goals, 18 Years Old
Sullivan Garrett was a mixed-bag in his first two tournaments with the Purple Knights. A lot of silly mistakes can be expected from a youngster, especially on the national stage. The last Copa Rushmori was a real weak tournament for the Knights, but players like Garrett were blooded on the international stage and were the better for it in the World Cup qualifying matches. Now Garrett will have to start being a leader with two new starters between him and Santiago Santiago on the backline.

23 - LB, Santiago Santiago – Oljestaden (Audioslavia) 100 Caps, 1 Goal, 26 Years Old
The longest tenured starter on the backline Santiago is the second highest cap winner on the roster behind only Captain, Shiloh Morgenstern. Now entering his third year in Audioslavia there is not a lot of more talented fullbacks in the world and the now 26 year old seems to have gotten so much better at defense over the years, but has crucially not lost any of his speed. With two attack minded fullbacks the team has been leery of counter attacks recently, but with Hirahito moving in front of the backline there is at least a triangle of defense now in operation.

2 – Lyle Marchand – 1093 Club de Football Atlantea 0 caps, 19 Years Old
A completely new center back to the national team much of the defense has complately changed as some older bench players, and two defensive minded starters have retired, or no longer been called in to the national team. Up steps newly minted Premier League champion, Lyle Marchand. Marchand has been usurped by fellow youth national teamer, Foster Benjamin, and will likely be pushing to make himself the starter in middle of the back four, and could so with a few more titles to his name.

3- Victor Borja– Club Jim Falls (Darmen) 27 Caps, 27 Years Old
Borja has rather surprisingly avoided the cuts made in the defensive bench area with some of his former teammates not exactly aging out. Perhaps Snavely admires the journeyman defenders tenacity, and his play in Darmen has never fallen off, even if many don't ever expect him to really amount to many games for the national team.

5 - Falstaff Kyte– New Capetown Nordiques 0 Caps, 0 Goals, 16 Years Old
Of all the young players to join the team Fullback option Kyte is a slight surprise. Kattan Lightly may have been just to old to earn his first call-up, or may have turned it down for family reasons and thus the young defender makes his first appearance on the roster. Unlikely to get much playtime the Nordiques defender is likely to move after another relegation, and could be hopeful of his call-up increasing his payday on the move from New Capetown.

MIDFIELDERS

6- CDM, Yoshimi Hirahito – Cornellians (Schottia) 83 Caps, 3 Goals, 22 Years old
The defenders won't be the only ones glad to see Yoshimi Hirahito in front of them as Yoshimi often spoke of being uncomfortable in the back four. While he was well capable, his real talent is in playing the ball to the wings, and killing attacks. While it remains to be seen if he is employed in the Takilante position Alson Figeuroa played the last campaign, his more defensive nature makes that seem less likely. That said Snavely does some weird shit around here.

14 - RM, Nycolas Jackson – RGS Athletic (Eastfield Lodge) 92 Caps, 6 Goals, 22 Years Old
To quote the RGS manager "If Nycolas Jackson is not called up I will riot". Well what did you expect? Jackson is the biggest threat on this team in only that everyone will be looking across the field at Shiloh Morgenstern. The back triangle in the 4-4-2 is probably the best back triangle this nation has ever seen, and 2-3 players are move on 7 million dollar plus moves in this window.

18- LM, Shiloh Morgenstern – Real Azuris (Cosumar) 102 Caps, 19 Goals, 26 Years OldCaptain
15 million dollars to move from a great club team in Real Azuris, a title winning club team to a Sabrefell Moths team that has won international trophies is an intriguing prospect. Shiloh Morgenstern still hasn't said yes though, he is moving from Cosumar, but is Nephara the answer? Or is the question more, can I improve my contract by beating Pasarga, and making a Copa Rushmori run?

20 – CAM, Benjamin Moriarty – Yaton FC 51 Caps, 1 Goal, 24 Years Old
The fourth midfielder and easily a 10 million dollar player in his own right, Moriarty is the often forgotten about cog in this highly explosive Taeshani midfield. The tip of the diamond that was so impressive it made Miles Snavely re-think the whole lineup moving Figueroa and Hirahito back, Moriarty is a title winner, and he wants to add more silverware and this tournament is shaping up as a huge time to go after a different sort of Golden Ball.

8 - Xavier Ydrissil - Atlantea Hurricanes 0 Caps, 0 Goals, 17 Years Old
A strong set of seasons has a young Xavier Ydrissil joining the national team. He is a likely option on the wings off the bench, with perhaps the most explosive ability of any of the bench players, but the most youth and inexperience as well. A full season starting for the Hurricanes has seen him enter the international conversation, but how long will he have to wait in this midfield bottleneck to see a starting chance?

15 – Elton Kenoby – Mierton Manatees 0 Caps, 0 Goal, 19 Years Old
The second young new midfielder Kenoby is more of a true wide-man than Ydrissil, but will likely need a start to show what he is worth. More of a volume guy he breaks down defenders, and makes them tired. Not really a position for that in the teams current set up, but he is definitely a good option to have as not only can he wear guys down, but he plays a mean late game defense.

17- Xavier Melchoir – Mynda Electra (Banija) 18 Caps, 1 Goal, 26 Years Old
The usual suspect on the wing Melchoir seemed a likely cut with all the new young players coming in. Still no extensive chances to show off what he has shown in Banija, and with a less than stellar club side not looking great hsi chance to have a real impact on the national team continues to dwindle.

19 – Giacomo Pantalaimon – Hannah 21 Caps, 2 Goals, 24 Years Old
One half of the Hannah contingent, Pantalaimon is seen as more of a midfielder for this squad, while he definitely plays more forward for the club. A strong option in the midfield he may see his chances dwindle as his end product has lacked, and the younger guys seem to just have more of a hunger.

21 – Lionel Ninetails – Bayern-Algaer 7 Caps, 2 Goals, 20 Years Old
Ninetails scored 2 goals in his 7 games over the past year which as bench midfielders go is definitely a plus. He remains the main attacking replacement for Moriarty, if Larson Sneijder doesn't move back and a forward isn't inserted in Moriarty's place. His form at Bayern-Algaer has been immense and their early season performance coincided with his strong form. That said there was also a correlation between their dip and his said, it remains to be seen if their was a causation between the two.

STRIKERS


9 - RS, Wilhelm Nkitilina – KT Itzalovalle (Audioslavia) 90 Caps, 47 Goals, 24 Years Old
Second all-time in goals per a game if you discount Val Valjean's ridiculous 2 games and 2 hatricks, only second to Taeshani legend Brian Ying Uing, Nkitilina seems dead certain to finish second all-time in total goals. The team has improved vastly since he joined the squad, and seems to at some times click on all cylinders. The World Cup finals was not his best performance, after a strong World Cup 84, 85 seemed a destiny for him. He guaranteed a semi-final by the time he retired. He only has so many chances left.

11-LS, Larson Sneijder – Yenvil Town FC 58 Caps, 6 Goals, 22 Years old
It seems highly likely that Sneijder will remain in Yenvil for their first campaign in the Champions' Cup. Unless a huge bid comes in that is, which if Sneijder and the Knights do well could happen. While he is an attacking midfielder there, Snavely deploys him more as a second striker, as the speed guy to Nkitilina's tall guy. Sneijder hasn't scored a lot, but he has got a lot of assists, and a guy like Nkitilina makes a lot of second forwards look great.

8 - RS, Pierre Elciega - Mierton Manatees 0 Caps, 0 Goals, 17 Years Old
The new forward on the national team is another young new player for Mierton. Elciega is a fireball option off the bench and will likely be the sort of youngster other clubs will just be scared of the speed of play he comes in at. He is fast, he is dangerous, and he doesn't seem to play with the fear that many youngsters have that can prevent them from making the simple plays, and the simple goals happen.

13 – Shannon Lafayette - Chalesm FC (Sqournshelous) 18 Caps, 1 Goals, 24 Years Old
The backup for Wilhelm Nkitilina, Shannon has now had a few storng seasons in Sqournshelous and seems like a good power option off the bench. He might not be the speedster many would want off the bench but if you start pumping balls in, or want to bully a defense he is definitely your guy.

16 – Elmo Brubaker – Hannah 21 Caps, 3 Goals, 24 Years Old
A sort of tweener on the bench Brubaker will come in deep to connect play, and is able to run down the channels on the side of the field. He has a knack for finding the right spaces to be in and will probably score a goal when you least expect it to happen.

Formation 4-4-2 (Diamond)
--Wagner--
--Garrett--Benjamin—McKenzie--Santiago--
--Hirahito--
--Jackson--Morgenstern--
--Moriarty--
----Nkitilina--Sneijder----

[Logria]

Modifier: +1.5

Manager – George HORSLEY, Age 53


THE SQUAD

Goalkeepers

George PICTON
Age: 24
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Croxby

Alistair BAKER
Age: 22
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Speake

David GAYTON
Age: 28
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Eccleston Orient

Defenders

Alexander RIVERS
Age: 22
Position: Right-back
Club: Speake

David ASQUITH
VICE-CAPTAIN
Age: 30
Position: Left-back
Club: AC Palliston

Richard VIRGO
CAPTAIN
Age: 28
Position: Centre-back
Club: Speake

Henry MEGSON
Age: 26
Position: Centre-back
Club: Eccleston Orient

Benjamin CAULDWELL
Age: 20
Position: Right-back
Club: Filby United

Charlie WALKER
Age: 26
Position: Left-back
Club: Holmecaster City

Jonathan ROCKFORD
Age: 24
Position: Centre-back
Club: Holmecaster City

Louis McVITIE
Age: 20
Position: Right-back
Club: Filby United

Midfielders

Vernon BROWN
Age: 27
Position: Central midfield
Club: Eccleston Orient

Julian NEVIN
Age: 26
Position: Right midfield
Club: Penton Athletic

Oliver BURNS
Age: 22
Position: Left midfield
Club: Cuttersley City

Sandy YOUNG
Age: 26
Position: Left midfield
Club: Maccabi Totton

George HARRIS
Age: 26
Position: Central midfield
Club: Speake

John SHELLEY
Age: 31
Position: Right midfield
Club: Shelcaster City

Forwards

Peter EMERY
Age: 30
Position: Forward
Club: Avenell Garrison

Moe SADLER
Age: 27
Position: Forward
Club: Speake

James FARLEY
Age: 32
Position: Forward
Club: Filby United

Samuel MAYNARD
Age: 27
Position: Forward
Club: Speake

Tim POCKETT
Age: 27
Position: Forward
Club: Carrove City

Calvin LEWIS
Age: 21
Position: Forward
Club: Croxby[/i]

LIKELY STARTERS – Formation: 4-3-3

1. G Picton
2. A Rivers - 5. R Virgo (c) - 6. H Megson - 3. D Asquith
7. J Nevin - 4. V Brown - 8. O Burns
9. P Emery - 10. M Sadler - 11. J Farley

THE KITS – courtesy of Chaucester Sports

[Valladares]

THE METROPOLIS HERALD
Metropolis, Tuesday, July 21^st, 2020

HOME | IN THE CAPITAL | DOMESTIC | ELECTIONS 2020 | RUSHMORE | INTERNATIONAL | ECONOMICS | SPORT | TODAY'S LIFE

COPA RUSHMORI | Jessica Curran officially presented as new Valladar NT manager ahead of CR participation

METROPOLIS (VAP) — In what is widely considered as an unexpected move, the Valladar Football Association has appointed former Cassadagan defender Jessica Curran to take on the reins of the Valladar national football team for the cycle that is about to begin with the 35th Copa Rushmori, to be played in Astograth and Savojarna. Curran, who is replacing another former footballer in the form of the retired Paulo Oliveira at the helm of the national team, was officially presented by the VFA's Executive Board in a press conference held at the VFA Headquarters in the Metropolis suburb of Cerro, where she had the chance to present her project to the gathered journalists.

"I am coming here to Valladares after having some previous experiences as assistant in both the Cassadagan and Baker Park national teams, as well as being manager for the Cassadaigua youth teams in both the Sporting World Cup and the Di Bradini Cup, and I am very interested in leading a long-term project in a nation that is geographically very close to my home country, and has also been a traditional entertainer of the World Cup. The prospect of returning the Valladar national football team to the World Cup finals is enticing enough of a challenge for me, and I am 100% determined to make it happen soon. I've got a preference for defensive play, because as a former defender I'm convinced that a strong defense is a pillar that helps you build a strong team, however, to me it is most important to learn and adapt myself to the formations and style preferences of the players in your team and as such I will not find any problem to use more offensive tactics that fit your players better. That said, and having had the chance to watch the performance of the Valladar team during the qualification stage of the most recent World Cup, my initial focus will be on giving the defense more consistency since I have detected that there are some aspects in that zone that could be improved to make this team more consistent and deliver better results on the field."

The VFA Executive Board, led by its chairman François Boudou, also welcomed the appointment of Curran: "For us it is a huge pleasure to have Jessica in our team. During her time as a player, she was known for being a sturdy defender that led Cassadaigua in their own resurgence in international football, and that is the kind of thing we would like to see replicated here in Valladares. As she has told you, she's a manager who wants her teams to be strong in defense, which was our weakest point during the most recent World Cup campaign and the one issue we would like to see solved as soon as possible. With her arrival we also hope to give a boost to the growth and development of women's football in our country, in line with the proposals of this VFA administration to give women a greater role in the sport. We want to turn football into a sport for every gender, and we're confident that steps taken today such as the creation of a women's league as well as this appointment will make an impact and turn this sport into a more open and inclusive one for everyone tomorrow."

The announcement, while unexpected, was warmly welcomed by the Valladar public, with most fans feeling honoured to have Curran as the new manager of the La Nacional and expressing the hope that Curran's tenure of the NT will be successful in both the regional and multiversal fronts, starting with the upcoming Copa Rushmori edition. Gender equality organizations such as FemIgual also joined in praising the VFA on "a much-needed first step towards a wanted equality in a sport that has been historically dominated by men. FemIgual greets this and all the other measures announced by the Valladar Football Association to make association football a more inclusive sport for women, and wishes the best of luck and lots of success to Jessica Curran on this historic challenge."

The Valladar NT, now with Jessica Curran as brand-new manager, began its Copa Rushmori journey by travelling to Antiguoko, Astograth by charter flight yesterday in the evening and were expected to settle in their base camp at Barrertze Hotel in that city in the morning, with a light training session at the facilities of local club Antiguoko FC to be held in the afternoon. La Nacional were drawn into Group H, along with old acquaintances Sargossa and Darmen, as well as newcomers Rea San Vegas and Kalosia, with the latter being the first rival to face in the competition. The match between Valladares and Kalosia is scheduled to be played at the recently refurbished The Enclave, in Antiguoko, that also being the official starting line for the Curran era.

Read this article in:

Español | Français | Português

Popular stories now:

ELECTIONS 2020 - Kings Marcus and Cyrus issued the Federal Electoral Provisions Act ahead of tomorrow's General Election
ELECTIONS 2020 - All borders of Valladares set to be closed at midnight for the General Election
ELECTIONS 2020 - Royal Delegate for Mountbatten issues curfew order for all municipalities of eastern Mountbatten
ECONOMICS - Talks on ValAir-Avispa merger fell through, according to Avispa CEO
SPORT - New pay TV channel for broadcast of LFV games is launched in Metropolis

[Astograth]

Ugaitz Abasgoitia sat in his leather chair, feet propped up on the desk, enjoying a brief respite. The afternoon sun poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows, basking his office in soft golden light. Down below, the streams of cars that would soon become Rumiatzi’s infamous rush hour traffic were just beginning to honk their horns. Just a few days for the Copa Rushmori to start, he thought, and nearly everything was in place. As head of the FAF he was on the organising committee for the Astograthian half of the tournament and, though expected to delegate most responsibilities, had instead thrust himself into the centre of preparations, taking on as much as possible. It was imperative that he be seen as one of the main people responsible for the tournament, for every forecast pointed to it being a success – if not on the pitch, then at least organisationally.

Of course, it had come at a cost, and for months now he’d been short on sleep, irritable, jumpy. He was effectively pulling double or triple duty, having to also oversee the local Football League and the national team – including all of Vaudrail’s requests. It had drained him, and even though the preliminaries were sorted, inevitably there would be issues to attend to, not to mention it would be embarrassing if Olibondeka didn’t live up to expectations and, say, crashed out in the group stage. Even after an impressive qualifying and Cup of Harmony run, doing poorly at their own Copa Rushmori would be a bad look for Vaudrail and for Abasgoitia himself – he’d very publicly positioned himself as the man responsible for Vaudrail and, for better or worse, their futures were now linked.

The payoff to all of this was, of course, influence. And money. But mostly influence, of the sort that is not so easy to purchase. He was an ambitious man, Abasgoitia, who found the top of Astograthian football to be but a middling step on a very steep pyramid. At age 52, he was still a young whippersnapper in the world of career footballing bureaucrats, with his whole life ahead of him. Heck, his predecessor Eneko Gandiaga was, at 88, still honorary president, still sitting in on meetings. Did he understand what was going on? Maybe, maybe not, maybe sometimes. But his word was law if he uttered it. That was influence. It was power.

And the most Gandiaga had achieved was FAF president. For nearly 50 years, to be sure, with that minor lapse of 12 years the FAF had been forcibly disbanded - but even then, he’d only increased his legend by smuggling away and preserving the contents of the FAF Museum. Plus organised a World Cup, a Copa Rushmori, a Cup of Harmony, two Baptisms of Fire and overseen a First Division that shot to the top of the UICA, with two world champion clubs… but hey, who’s counting.

Astograth were now working from a clean slate and so far, under Abasgoitia’s leadership, it was all coming together beautifully. This Copa would be a payoff, to be sure, and would allow him to step up in the politics game of the Confederación Rushmori de Fútbol. He could probably swing another Copa de Campeones final this way, maybe an executive vicepresidency, and finagle that into some IFCF dealings – an LBCT final here, a Challengers’ Cup final there, before going for the big one, the second-biggest money-moving match in the multiverse: the Champions’ League final.

Plus, none of this was mutually exclusive with the business of the World Cup Committee, which was a multiverse unto itself. Thanks to Gandiaga, Astograth were permanent, if lapsed, members of the elite Executive World Cup Committee, the old boys’ club that, everyone knew, secretly ran everything. Following World Cup 85, Abasgoitia would now take his rightful place on the committee, and there was no end to the possibilities there. The Grand Duke himself was a worm compared to the power that the World Cup Committee President could bring to bear, and the mere thought of being that close to the throne – the real throne, the footballing one – gave him shivers.

Abasgoitia was snapped out of his placid, sun-soaked daydreaming by the robotic jingle of his landline. He stretched his arm toward the desk, straining, but was forced to laboriously lower his legs from the table and roll his chair closer. A plump finger punched down on the flashing red button.

“Yes?”

“Mr. Echerry with a call for you, sir,” said his secretary, Ms. Orobia.

“Echerry?” One of the FAF vicepresidents, a Rumiatzi fellow. Lackey of Royal Rumiatzi’s board and their posse of clubs, more precisely. Why would he call the landline? They’d texted this morning – he had his mobile number! “What does he want?”

“Copa Rushmori business, he said.”

“Fine. Put him through.” Abasgoitia was leery. Echerry was barely involved in the Copa, and the clubs he was in the pocket of had no stake either. Except for Royal Ibarbe, who’d put up their ground for Eastfield Lodge to use – was there some issue?

“Ugaitz! You there?” came the voice through the loudspeaker.

“Yes, Zilar. What’s going on?” asked Abasgoitia, settling in to prop his feet back on the desk.

“Oh, just wanted to check up on you. Copa’s all ready to go, huh?”

“That’s right, yes. Assuming everything goes to plan.”

“To plan, right. Right. The liaison officers all where they need to be?”

What? The liaison officers? “Uh, yes. I believe so. Some received better than others, but all doing their job as far as I know.”

“Great! That’s great. And have they… you know.”

Abasgoitia waited. He didn’t know.

“Ugaitz? You there?”

“Yes. But no, I don’t know. Did they what?”

“Oh, you know.”

Abasgoitia’s paranoia was growing. He pulled his feet back off the table and leaned over the phone. “Zilar, give it up. What?”

“What have you learned?” said Echerry in a low voice, through gritted teeth.

It clicked for Abasgoitia, and was left speechless for a moment.

“Ugaitz?”

“Learned? From the liaisons? Do you think they’re spies? What kind of rinky-dink, Cocoa-bo-swilling, Atlantian Oceanian operation do you think we’re running here? What the hell is wrong with you? No, shut up. Don’t call me again. This is recorded.”

Abasgoitia slammed his fist on the button. SPIES! A vice-president of the FAF, suggesting they stoop that low. He’d bluffed about the recording part, but if it was his word against Echerry’s he could probably swing the votes to get him thrown out. Why had he even called on a landline to talk about this? The secretary could pick up the phone and listen in at any moment. Or was it intentional? Had it been a setup? Was Echerry recording on his end, hoping Abasgoitia would incriminate himself? Yes… the latter theory seemed more plausible the more he thought about it. He broke out in a sweat, but the room was cold now. The sun had moved on, and the president of the FAF sat in shadow looking out the window at a darkening city. He’d grown complacent. Enemies were everywhere. One false step and they’d stab him in the back. Just three days to the Copa Rushmori. Enemies… everywhere!

[Pasarga]

For the Wanderers, the journey back to the footballing elite is a long and arduous journey that they are attempting to make. Long gone are the years where they had made it to three straight World Cup Final appearances, winning one of those tournaments in the process. Missing two straight tournaments for the Finals definitely put a big hit into the pride and standing of the team, though finding their way back into the Finals of this latest edition has been a solid step in the right direction. It is not a lack of quality players either, as Pasargans are still considered by most clubs to be of the hardest working and most loyal players that they can obtain. Alexander Jager is one of the ten best strikers in the world and the supporting cast is of a good quality, yet that awful dreaded lack of consistency that plagued the Wanderers for much of their first three decades of competition seems to have reared itself once more in the last decade.

For the Wanderers to continue that journey, one of the best ways to take that next step to reasserting their place among the elite is by laying claim to once again being the best team in Rushmore. That is a tall ask of course, with the likes of Cassadaigua, the powerhouses that is Eura, and recent World Cup runners up in Nephara, not to mention the other half dozen or so competent teams that can give anyone a run for their money. While the Wanderers do sit at a comfy third place in the regional rankings, it is a precarious position that could be toppled with a second poor run in the Copa Rushmori, like the one that was ended in the first knockout stages against Nephara two years before. To truly be among the best in the region and then among the best in the entire footballing world, the Wanderers can not be going out so early in the regional championship and should be at the very least be making a run into the semifinals of the tournament if not in the title game itself. That has to be the mind frame that the team takes with them into Savojarna in the next month, semifinals or it will have been a failed tournament for meeting the expectations of the team and fans.

To that end, the Wanderers do not have the most difficult but neither a very easy group to navigate their way into the knockouts, with defensive stalwarts Taeshan being a major threat to the Pasargan dominance of the group. The Purple Knights have been on the ascendancy in the last four years, though their performance at the Finals will be something that might be signalling a stalling to their ascent, though their defensive prowess has never been something that could be underestimated. Also a potential pitfall is the Planar team, who are something of a mystery and not to be taken lightly as their domestic clubs have had a modicum of success that suggests their level of footballing may be greater than what their ranking would suggest. Rounding out the group will be Pedestrian States and Ostralo, both sides that the Wanderers have never played before in their history and who have very little in footage for the team to review to prepare up to their usual standards for the match, though the squad will no doubt be counting on taking the full six points from those engagements.

The start of the group is relatively easy, with the side taking on Ostralo before the clash against Taeshan on the second matchday that will likely dictate how the group will end up. There is a slight concern that the side could be caught looking forward to the match with the Purple Knights and be taking their unknown opponents lightly. Yet if they are true to their intent of rising once more from just being a mediocre footballing power and into the elite, they will have to relearn how to take every game as if it was a title decider and not take matches like this off. It will be a good measuring stick to see how dedicated to the cause this group of players are and if the braintrust will need to look elsewhere once the qualifiers for the next World Cup are set to begin.

[Plane of Possibility]

Field of Dreams
Plane of Possibility

Hope Lamont blinked. The sun was rather high in the sky, and it seemed like for once, The Worldbuilder had brought them in at sundown instead of the usual four o'clock. Or, perhaps it was just because moments ago, she had been basking in the sun by the beach in her favorite lagoon near Fearun. She was used to this by now - the Worldbuilder pulling her to play keeper for their football team once in a while, and then returning her to her world the moment after she had been taken without any memory. It was a peculiar kind of magic, and the fact that she was always struck with instant amnesia immediately after she returned meant that she couldn't learn more about it, but it was, at least, entertaining.

As she looked around, she noticed a few familiar faces - M'tok K'nen, the Half-Orc Battle Master from a world called Waterdeep; Sigrun Irota, a Beast Master Ranger from a world called Tal'Dorei with his pet hawk Streak, and Sir Samuel Urael III, Human Paladin Oath of Vengeance from Ravnica. However, it was who wasn't present - and who else was - that was the biggest cause of bewilderment and wonder.

For, standing in front of the four of them, materializing one by one, were seven - yes, seven - distinct Tieflings. To be fair, ther ehadn't been a single Tiefling in the first tow iterations of the Planar team; she had deemed it was just a coincidence as it would've been impossible to get a player of every race in their world; now, it seemed, the Worldbuilder had corrected themselves, seven times over.

One that held two dirks in her hand was the first to speak, and the others followed; Hope led the charge in explaining to the various Tieflings about what had happened to them; none of them could tell her why they had been chosen.

And so it was that Hope spoke in her mind - or prayed? no, that wasn't the correct term, as she still believed in Pelor - to the Worldbuilder.

'Why them? What happened to the others? What are we to play in this time?'

As if to reply, a gate scroll appeared in front of them; and a map of a country in a region. Savojarna in Rushmore.

This would be their first time traveling to Rushmore at all.

As she explained, and drew in everyone else, they all touched the scroll, and the spell began to take effect...

And six seconds later, they were in St. Andrei, Savojarna.

[Darmen]

4:15pm, Tuesday, September 3, 2047
Rumiatzi International Airport
Rumiatzi, Astograth

Iban Oxalde had heard horror stories about the Darmeni national football team's antics when they traveled abroad. From playing football in many of the hotels they had visited, to playing football on the highway in front of one of the hotels they visited, playing football in a museum... lots of playing football. Oh, there was also that one time they had thrown rocks at the window of the Olympic Village dorm room occupied by Lord Almighty Gregory as he tried to sleep.

As the 46 year old liaison officer waited for the team to arrive, he wondered what was in store for him. What antics would he have to deal with? Would he be the target of some kind of elaborate prank? His mind processed through a long list of possibilities and the potential ramifications of each one.

Ultimately he decided he'd be perfectly content to down seven bottles of Darmeni Scotch, don the most presently popular women's fashion outfit and jump into the Araxes river, all while signing the old version of the Darmeni national anthem.

* * * * *

Berhtoald Myers' All Green's sat quietly on their privately chartered flight, which had left Scott City International Airport several hours ago. The coaching staff was huddled together at the front of the cabin, pouring over the latest scouting reports and deciding how best to go about beating the Sargossans and Valladars. The 23 players selected to represent their nation in the 35th Copa Rushmori were scattered about behind them.

Notably absent was Alberich Goldschmidt. The 34 year old defensive midfielder and former captain of the team was, for the first time, not on the squad list after retiring from the international game. Some 19 years earlier, Goldschmidt had been the youngest member of the squad that had traveled to Eura for the 24th Copa Rushmori as it returned to international play during a period of great turmoil in Darmen. His absence would be keenly felt among the players.

Myrddin Falkenrath was fast asleep. As Darmen's third string goalkeeper, he wasn't expecting to play much. In the seat in front of him, Aquila Freud was turned around in his seat, sharpie marker in hand and threatening to trace the outline of the sleeping mask on Falkenrath's face. In a seat across the isle, Joel Good was attempting — without putting too much effort into it — to persuade Freud to reconsider. His feeble pleas went unheeded.

The three members of the Sterling City United squad who were making the trip to Astograth, along with Hákon Thorn, were gathered around and enthralled in a game of Egyptian Rat Race.

Two rows behind them, Víedharr Svendsen had his head buried in a magazine. Captain Silver Abbey, being more civilized, was reading a book on Astograthian history.

Hyman Campo's earbuds blasted the latest and greatest of Darmeni rock music into his ears and he furiously tapped the lights that appeared on his phone. The app promised to improve his reflexes. After two hours of frequent tapping, he wasn't convinced.

Philippus Deniaud's earbuds were attempting to teach him some basic phrases in the Astograthian language. Attempting being the key word.

The rest of the team were fiddling with their phones, or looking out the windows at the Kernansquillec countryside that would soon give way to the southern portions of Astograth.

As the game of Egyptian Rat Race went along, it got more and more heated. Thorn was being made to look silly by the three Sterling City teammates and he wasn't liking it one bit.

Two sixes!

Thorn slapped his hand down on the pile of cards, doing so with extreme speed. Such extreme speed in fact, that he had failed to bring his pinky finger out from under his palm. Such a mistake wouldn't have been much of a problem had he been involved in any other activity, but this was a competitive game of Egyptian Rat Race. Three Sterling City hands followed Thorn's, each one landing on top of his with tremendous force.

Too much force in fact. Thorn let out a loud yelp, which drew the attention of just about everyone on the plane. The team doctor was called over. A splint was put in place. Its a good thing pinky fingers aren't all that important to defensive midfielders.

[Oberour Ar Moro]

Claudes Filion found the whole thing extraordinary. Here he was, flying on a private jet with (as!) the members of the Oberour Ar Moro national football team. He was sitting next to Gwion du Bourc-la-Reyne, who he watched play in the World Cup, and now was going to be a starting Oberour Ar Moro fullback with.

Heady stuff for Claudes. He was a defender playing at Melito d'Argentueill College, Veglia, when he had his final growth spurt, and found the speed and muscle he never knew he'd get. Then it was on to Timuria, somehow, to play professional football with Elektriklestirmespor, who won their Super League. And that was enough to not only get him on the Oberour roster, but give him a starting spot.

The plane landed as smooth as silk and the men started to gather their bags. They were early, in a sense. The Dragoons had a matchday one bye, before they would face their greatest challenge in Eura, the best team in Rushmore. A solid result there could propel them through the groups into the Round of 16.

Eura! He'd watched Oberour Ar Moro play Eura on the television, and now he was going to be on the television, playing Eura. Truly extraordinary.

[Eura]

REPLAY: Eura vs Savojarna – the 34th Copa Rushmori Final…Live!
- Live coverage from Lodger City Memorial Stadium, New Lodger City, Eastfield Lodge
- Venue sold out all 150,000 seats as Eurans and Savojars pack out
- Team news: Michael Brandon names unchanged Euran side from semi-final win over Saintland – one change for Savojarna
- Eura chasing third Copa title, Savojarna their second
- Reporting by Chris Edwards, Mia Bates and Harvey Hallworth

Welcome to REPLAY, where we dig into our archive to see how our live news feed reported famous sporting events as they happened. To mark the beginning of the 35th Copa Rushmori, we’ve focused in on our coverage of the previous Copa final, where Eura played Savojarna. We join the live feed just ten minutes or so before kick-off.

18:48 - …thanks to our pre-game team and Chris Edwards for covering the build-up. It’ll now be Chris, Harvey Hallworth and me, Mia Bates, to take us through these final minutes. Chris and I will be updating you on events at the Lodger City Memorial Stadium as they happen, and Harvey will be our stats guru.

18:49 - We’ll also be giving you select quotes from our commentary team in the stadium for EBC television, a stream of which you can access via this page if you live in Eura or the Overseas Territories and hold a valid EBC Pass. Tonight, our commentators will be the iconic Terry Chamberlain, EBC lead commentator, and legendary former Euran international Craig Sinclair, who won 286 caps and scored 114 goals for his country. They will be joined by former Savojarna captain Kristina Midström bringing us the opposition perspective.

18:51 – The pre-game ceremony is wrapping up now, and I have to say the Eastfielders have hosted a fine tournament. There were maybe some doubts given the unusual metaphysical circumstances of its existence, but hey, Rushmore was open to giving it a try and everything has worked out fine. Chris still hasn’t found his sunglasses though. A reminder of the teams lining up tonight:

Eura name an unchanged 4-2-3-1 line-up from the one that saw off Saintland 1-0 at Vorgan Park. That said the team is a departure from Michael Brandon’s usual selection; Anthony Townsend and Stanley Burns missed the Saintland match through injury but, despite both being fit, have not retaken their starting births. Brandon is clearly relying on consistency in selection, the experience of Ben Hall, and Damion Bowman’s raw talent.



Savojarna come close to making this a repeat of the semi-finals for both teams in terms of line-up. However, they have made one change from the team that sensationally defeated favourites Nephara 2-0, with Linne Kjaer coming in for Simon Omark. That’s a big change at the back for Mikaela Rangren’s Savojars, who line up in their usual 4-4-1-1.



18:52 – For those who are out of the loop, this is something of a mismatch historically but could go either way on current form and ability. Eura has become a giant of the game at all levels but is perhaps the most underachieving nation in the Copa Rushmori, at least relative to expectations, having won it only twice in the 23rd and 27th editions. They’ve lost three finals, the most recent a shock defeat to Pasarga in the 32nd edition having dominated the tournament.

At this Copa, Eura got out of their group easily with victories over The Askari Union and Falkyr, and a draw against Nephara. But in the knock out rounds they wobbled, relying on vastly improved second half performances to beat Cassadaigua and Saintland.

Savojarna have the opposite reputation, as a country with a rising reputation in world football, and a team who have only a short history of participation in the Copa – but one that is hugely successful in that context. Their memorable victory in the 31st edition final against Nephara was one for the ages, and they capped off a great run in this edition of the tournament by seeing off the Nepharim yet again at King Iqbal II Stadium.

It was a tighter game than the 2-0 scoreline suggested. Nevertheless, the Savojars took their chances well, Arvid Jotansson giving them the lead before Perttu Karjanen came off the bench to score a Dion Underwood-esque counter attacking goal to finish it. Can they repeat the same heroics tonight?

18:53 – Here’s what our commentary team have to say in the final moments before this huge final, as the players get ready to come out onto the pitch:

Terry Chamberlain, EBC TV commentator: “It really is a tale of two very different sides this. The Eurans have the heavy weight of expectation upon them to end a long drought in this tournament, and several older players for whom this might be a last shot at silverware. The Savojars will be more relaxed – they know that reputation and on-paper strength only matter for so much in 90 minutes. They have a decent record against Eura at the Copa. Still, I think Eura will edge it after extra time.”

Craig Sinclair, former Euran international, World Cup and Copa Rushmori winner: “It’s not easy being a Euran in a major final, and I should know. There are billions of eyes on you from your own country let alone anywhere else. I think Michael Brandon has been positive again tonight, he’s gone with a good balance of experience and pure ability and I think Eura should win. If they get the ball to Brian Bond up top he will score sooner or later. They’ve got to be careful though, this is an opponent who will have a lot of belief that they can do it.”

Kristina Midström, former Savojarna international, captain of their Copa Rushmori winning side: “When we won it a few years ago I remember the absolute jubilation it caused around the country. Well, the novelty didn’t have time to get old; if it happens again you’ll see parties on the streets once more. We’re stronger than last time too. Eura have some big names to contend with, but every one of Rangren’s men and women knows what they have within them. Jashkin is a hell of a player especially as any Farrenton fans know. I’m going to be optimistic – Savojarna to win in extra time and bring the trophy back to Sjoedrhavn!”

18:54 – It’s a beautiful stadium this. The info given to us by the hosts calls it the “crown jewel” of the nation’s stadiums and you can see why. There’s also a touching detail; over five million names are inscribed on the structure of the ground, each a victim of a notorious disaster here that devastated this city and destroyed the stadium that existed on this site before.

It feels almost mundane to use a place like this for football. Then again, what better way is there to move on? It worked for Oakstone. They’re ready to march out of the tunnel now. Here we go.

18:55 – Out come the two teams, followed by their managers, to a great deal of fanfare in front of an absolutely enormous 150,000 capacity crowd (both teams get a 50,000 allocation concentrated mainly behind the goals). Mikaela Rangren looks excited as usual. Who can blame her? Few would have expected her to reach the Copa final in her first tournament in charge. Michael Brandon is maybe a little calmer. He’s been here before.

18:56 – Here come the national anthems. Savojarna first.

18:58 – You’ve got to love a flag waving socialist anthem now and again, the International in this case. Sung heartily and with passion by the Savojars in the stadium, as is their nature. Now for the Euran anthem.

“Ohhhh Eura, my own Eura, how dear is theeeee…”

OOC: To the tune of this, of course.

19:00 – There’s something quite special about watching fifty thousand Eurans sing Ode to Eura. A wall of sound.

19:01 – Handshakes go off without incident. There’s been some geopolitical wrangling between Eura and Savojarna in recent years but little sign of it translating into this occasion like it has in matches past. It seems the hatchet may have been buried, on the pitch at least.

Enough pleasantries. It’s about to go off. Eura play in red and gold trim as per, Savojarna in blue with a distinctive red and white trim.

19:02 – Eura win the toss, choose to kick off, and do it so quickly I think half the stadium hadn’t realised play had begun. There’s a delayed roar of encouragement for both sides.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “You could tell from the way they set up at kick off that Eura are out to leave a mark on Savojarna here. Pouring straight into their half. Savojarna look a bit more closed up and will likely play direct and on the counter.”

19:04 – There’s little to report from the first couple of minutes. That’s often the case in major finals. No-one wants to be the first side to make a mistake.

19:05 – MISS - I spoke too soon! Eura get the ball in the danger area early as Damion Bowman drives a powerful cross into a tricky area for Savojarna, just outside their six yard box. It’s low and cleanly hit but Brian Bond’s shot is not. He’s wellied that well wide and should have done better.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “That was a beautiful ball, but I’m not sure what Bond thought he was doing there. He couldn’t get around it well enough for placement and didn’t seem to know how much power was going into the shot either.”

19:06 – We’re at a loss too up here. Bond is not usually profligate in front of goal. His importance to this Euran side cannot be understated; he’s got a comparable goals per game rate internationally to Needle, Oslograd, Campbell and Underwood. He offers a lot physically too though, with the strength of Oslograd and pace not far short of Underwood. It’s reasonable to argue he’s a unique player in the pantheon of great Euran strikers – not least because of the male modelling!

19:08 – Another venture forward by Eura who have definitely had the better of the first five minutes. Ben Hall overlaps Bowman on the left, cuts the ball back for the young winger, and watches as he tries to surge into the box. A solid Alexey Nurkanen tackle sees him lose the ball and Savojarna regroup. Nurkanen is going to have to play the game of his life tonight to deal with Bowman.

19:09 – SAVE - The second Euran shot comes from an unlikely source. Charles Roberts takes his chance from range which offers an easy save for Iiro Pakanen. Although Bond is the key man up front it is worth remembering this Euran team can score from anywhere. They’ve scored fourteen goals in six games this tournament. Bond is top scorer with three. Woakes, Underwood and Bowman have two apiece. Five players have one goal to their name, Roberts included.

19:11 – A little better here from Savojarna who create something for the first time. Only a half chance, Mikhail Jashkin sending a long ball into the right channel for Morten Poulsen to run onto, only for Poulsen’s cross back to Arvid Jotansson to be easily collected by Kevin Belgrave. An early sign of the danger Jashkin causes in particular.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “Beware Mikhail Jashkin above all. Ben Hall really needs to be on it throughout or the Farrenton man will do something.”

What does “something” mean, Terry? Hold up a bank until Belgrave lets a shot in?

19:12 – CHANCE - Almost an incident of commentators – I mean, err, reporters – curse. Just as I imagine the thought of Jashkin wearing a black and white hooped shirt and carrying a bag of swag out of a vault, he instead chooses to rob Hall of possession. Jashkin charges forward and cuts a low ball across goal. Fortunately no-one is there to steer it in.

19:14 – Eura take a couple of minutes to settle down and regain control. Bizarrely we are made to wait twelve minutes for the first foul of the game as Liam Armstrong is cut down by Victoria Maersk. The battle of the box-to-box midfielders will be an interesting one to watch.

19:15 – CHANCE – Rhys Griffiths can be so, so deadly when he gets going. He sets off on a run down the right and leaves Matts Pedersen in the dust, then cuts back inside Linne Kjaer, and curls a quality ball towards the back post. Bond is there and is only denied a goal by Pakanen punching the ball away. Eura then win a couple of corners which come to nothing. Savojarna need to be careful not to let Eura have so many set piece opportunities.

19:17 – CHANCE - Bowman heaves another ball deep into the box and Moira Woakes manages to reach this one, but she can’t get a clean head on the ball and it runs out for a throw in on the other side. Technically that was an attempt on goal and not a very good one.

19:18 – Kjaer gets into a spot of bother at the back and tries to pass back to Pakanen but under-hits the back pass. Bond bears down on the loose ball furiously but Pakanen just about gets there to lump the ball into the crowd.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Savojarna need to show a bit more intent here. There’s a lot of pressure building and it feels like Eura are going to take one of these chances eventually.”

Kristina may be right. Just as she finished speaking, Bowman was on hand to deliver another cross, and Kjaer’s awkward clearance almost went into the top corner. The corner is a good one but Pakanen gets to it first.

19:19 – BOOKING – We have our first yellow card of the final. Matts Pedersen has been struggling so far against Griffiths and Joonas Andersson has tried to help by providing support on the left flank. Andersson goes in late instead and earns himself a booking, and gifts Eura a free kick in a good position. Good opportunity this. Bond is standing over it…

19:20 – SAVE – Outstanding strike and an even better stop. Bond has gone for power at about 30 yards, hit the ball well towards the top right hand corner, and Pakanen has done brilliantly to get up and tip that over the bar. Eura’s corner comes to nothing. Other than that Jashkin flurry ten minutes ago it’s been one way traffic.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “That would have been a contender for goal of the tournament – what a huge save by Pakanen.”

19:22 – MISS – Missed opportunity for Eura and Liam Armstrong is absolutely fuming. He’s done everything right, dispossessing Maersk with a well-timed tackle, exchanging a quick one-two with Monica Rowland to bypass Andersson and then played in Griffiths. The Revolutionaries player is alone on the inside right of the penalty area, has all the time in the world to pass across for Bond to score, and opts instead to shoot across goal. Pakanen lets it go wide. Armstrong exchanges choice words with Griffiths.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “What was Griffiths thinking there? You can’t be that naïve in a major final. Just take the clearest option, don’t go it alone and waste that good a chance.”

19:24 – We have some respite for the first time after a late tackle on Krister Voynov means medical attention is required. Both teams need a pause it seems and are getting tactical instructions from their managers. Rangren is looking pretty animated.

19:25 – And we’re back on. Rowland has a pop from outside the area. The shot goes over the bar.

STATS – Eura have had all six attempts on goal so far, two on target and four off target. They have had all four corners. Can Savojarna get out of their own half?

19:27 – After that talking to from their head coach the Savojars are looking a bit more positive. Still, Eura are controlling the game.

19:29 – SAVE – Griffiths on the wing, rolls the ball off for Coles, he gets the most out of his veteran legs to clip a ball through the legs of Pedersen, whips it across the box and there’s Brian Bond! Straight at the keeper. Weak shot too.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “Brian Bond will not be happy with himself. That was a poor finish even if the angle was tight. Eura might regret not taking advantage of their current dominance.”

Craig can speak from a lot of experience after his illustrious career. He looks quietly anguished as an Armstrong corner from the left floats harmlessly out of play for a goal kick.

19:31 – Finally a shot for Savojarna who have barely got out of their half for twenty minutes. Maersk goes it alone, beating Armstrong with her strength and apparently superior willpower. She shoots from too far out for it to be a problem as the ball trundles wide. Nevertheless it’s a start.

19:33 – It’s quietened down a lot here in the Memorial Stadium. There’s not been much to celebrate for either side. The overwhelming feeling is one of tension.

19:35 – BOOKING - Hold on, Eura are back on the front foot and Kjaer has given them a free kick in a great position with Savojarna’s sixth foul of the half. The Dynamo Sjoedrhavn defender didn’t look comfortable holding off Bond as he received a Rowland pass, and ended up clearing him out from the side. An easy decision for the referee to give her a booking despite Maersk’s protests. This is 25 yards out and a couple of Euran players are lingering over it…

19:36 – GOAL!

EURA 1 – 0 SAVOJARNA – BRIAN BOND (34)

WHAT A BANGER.

Absolutely no chance for Pakanen as Brian Bond demonstrates why so many Euran clubs want to bring him home. The Eastweald striker hits this one with less force than his earlier effort. However the placement is spot on, a postage stamp strike into the top left hand corner that dips just in time to go under the bar. Pick that one out! Advantage Eura.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “What a screamer!”

19:37 – Bond’s celebration summed up the man better than any article, book or documentary. He jogs leftwards away from his teammates, initially not reacting, then raises his right arm and blows a kiss and a wink to the cameras. Bond is exactly the kind of arrogant so-and-so Euran football lacks all too often. He backs it up with results too.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “What does Rangren do here? For a minute it looked like we’d make it to half time then change but that’s not happened. She’ll need to be careful not to lose the game before the break.”

19:38 – It’s a good question and one that gets an answer as Savojarna sink into their own half further. This is surely an attempt to avoid going two down. Less than ten minutes to half time plus stoppage.

19:39 – CHANCE – So unlucky! Eura win a corner which seems to have gone nowhere having been headed away easily by Roman Forsberg, who has so far been Savojarna’s best player. It then lands at the feet of Armstrong, who curls a shot back at goal first time that has clattered into the crossbar and come back out again. Forsberg reacts quickly to clear for a second time in moments. Savojarna clinging on here.

STATS – Harvey points out that, as far as we can remember, Bond has never scored a free kick for Eura before and only taken a handful. Hard to see that staying the same after this half of football.

19:41 – Forsberg launches a long ball deep into Eura’s half and Jotansson has used his height well to win it ahead of Roberts. He takes the ball down and could go further. Unfortunately Jotansson’s aerial ability is not matched by his pace and Roberts soon catches up to nick the ball back and put Eura back on the attack.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Jotansson needs to do a lot better than that if he’s going to play in another game this big again. Sigurdsdottir is out of form, sure, but she’s got more quality. I think she’ll come on sooner rather than later at this rate.”

19:44 – The first half is now winding down a bit. Eura have had nine shots to Savojarna’s one. No-one in blue looks happy. Nurkanen clips Bowman’s ankles in frustration. He’s lucky that the subsequent indirect free kick is floated harmlessly over the box and out of play.

19:45 – Savojarna get the ball forward a bit only to run into a wall of Euran defenders and the midfield dropping back rapidly. Rowland is orchestrating the whole thing beautifully. If it goes on like this there’s only going to be one winner.

19:46 – MISS – If I were Forsberg or Pakanen I’d be giving Morten Poulsen an earful right now. The playmaker has dropped back to support the defence as stoppage time approaches. He clatters Woakes from behind and is fortunate not to be booked when Forsberg looked set to take the ball off her ankles. The referee waves play on as Eura still have the ball; however the chance isn’t taken by Griffiths who snaps up the loose ball and laces it just wide.

19:48 – We are into three minutes of stoppage time and everything has slowed down. Savojarna have strung a few passes together – they look so much better when they play the more intricate style we’ve been used to prior to this tournament. They’ve got an opportunity for a long throw though.

19:49 – PENALTY – SAVOJARNA

Unbelievable.

19:50 – BOOKING - Actually, no, it isn’t unbelievable. This is exactly what Eura do every time they reach a World Cup quarter final or semi-final. After dispatching quality opposition, playing beautiful football, scoring sensational goals and putting themselves in prime position to win a trophy, they lose their head and throw it away.

That’s what’s happened here as the throw in is harmlessly bouncing out of play, when Voynov sets after it. Blake has stepped across, apparently to shepherd the ball out, only to stick in a loose leg and clear out Voynov. It is a completely idiotic thing to do for player who has won the UICA Champions Cup, Gold League and Copa Rushmori. Eura don’t protest the decision, how could they?

To Voynov’s credit though, nothing would have come of that throw in if it wasn’t for his persistence in the face of adversity. Victoria Maersk has the chance to score a huge goal here for her country.

19:51 – GOAL!

EURA 1 – 1 SAVOJARNA – VICTORIA MAERSK (45+2)

Victoria Maersk buries it to Belgrave’s left. By her compatriots admission, she’s not a top class player in any single aspect. As a leader though Maersk is the finished article in every sense – there was not a glimmer of nerves as she stepped up to take the penalty.

19:52 – Eura pile forward to try and nab a second before the break. The ball bounces out harmlessly.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “How do Eura pick themselves up from that?”

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “That’s why Maersk is the captain. She leads by example.”

19:53 – HALF TIME

EURA 1 – 1 SAVOJARNA

Harvey Blake is looking very guilty as he trudges off. Rightly so.

19:55 – STATS – Eura had 64% of the possession in that half, ten of the twelve attempts on goal, all six corners and committed half as many fouls as their opponents. And yet the scores are level.

19:57 – There’s been a lot of social media reaction which you can find covered on our “Involvement” feed. In the meantime we’re looking at a 20:05 start to the second half, so while you wait, here’s a reminder of the teams:

EURA – Belgrave, Coles (C.), Roberts, Blake, Hall, Rowland, Armstrong, Griffiths, Woakes, Bowman, Bond (GOAL 34)
SAVOJARNA – Pakanen, Nurkanen, Forsberg, Kjaer, Pedersen, Maersk (C., GOAL 45+2), Andersson, Jashkin, Voynov, Poulsen, Jotansson

20:00 – The bench players for both sides are warming up and if there’s one thing that gives Eura the advantage tonight it’s their strength in depth. Michael Brandon has so many options. Stanley Burns, Dean Steele, Anthony Townsend, Frank Bevan, Vincent Robshaw who has just won the Champions League with Northern Union, and veteran star Oscar Coltrane. That’s not even getting to the strikers. Fletcher, Fox and Sutton are all good enough to start at top clubs and Underwood’s age doesn’t change that he has world class quality.

Savojarna are by comparison a lot less blessed with real quality to bring on and have a smaller squad. Then again you could say their first team is a lot weaker on paper as well, and yet here we are, 1-1 at half time of the Copa Rushmori final. Eura dominated the opening period but that sickening twist at the end has opened up the game massively.

20:03 – Both teams are now back in the tunnel. The second half beckons. Here’s the thoughts of our commentary team:

Terry Chamberlain, EBC TV commentator: “I can’t imagine Michael Brandon will be too pleased with the way Eura have thrown away their lead, or that they only scored once. He and his players have to keep their head though. They have experience, quality and fitness on their side. I’ve watched Eura in ten major finals now and they’ve lost six of those; this doesn’t feel like number seven despite the equaliser.”

Kristina Midström, former Savojarna international, captain of their Copa Rushmori winning side: “I don’t think it was actually the best half for Savojarna in terms of the performance, Eura were on top as expected but at times it looked like my compatriots were going to struggle to get anything from the game. Now it’s completely changed. The moment that penalty went in I think it lifted a huge weight off their minds. I still think it would be wise to make a change or two early in the second half to sustain momentum. Eura are a good team but we know they’ve got a wobble in them, the question is how long will it last.”

Craig Sinclair, former Euran international, World Cup and Copa Rushmori winner: “You’ve got to feel for Harvey Blake right now. He’s going to be distraught. There are a lot of positives though for us – for forty minutes Eura were well on top. If we can maintain the same level for most of the second half and take a couple of chances then we’ll win. Savojarna must be buzzing though, what a moment that penalty was. They’ve got a chance now when the game should have been gone earlier.”

20:04 – SUBSTITUTION - The players are back out and we are ready to go. Savojarna have made a change by the way; Linne Kjaer has been rocky all game and is replaced by the talented prospect Polina Zirkova. A huge moment for the 22 year old who has reportedly attracted the attention of Ulsa’s scouting team. This could be the first time Euran audiences watch a new Frank Ainsworth.

In 45 minutes, longer if the scores are tied after that time, there will be a new champion of Rushmore.

20:05 – Seconds after kick off, Rowland and Maersk run into one another and both come off worse for wear. There’s a fleeting exchange of minor vulgarities between them as the referee makes sure it all stays peaceful. Is this a sign of things to come?

20:07 – CHANCE – Almost a total disaster at the back for Savojarna and their young substitute Zirkova. Zirkova is an adventurous sort considering she’s a centreback and that’s almost her undoing as she loses the ball on the edge of the centre circle to Rowland. The former Nephara captain quickly punches through and lays the ball off for Woakes on her left to run at the box. Woakes gets close and cuts the ball back for Bond, but just as Eura’s primary threat shapes to shoot, Forsberg is in with a brilliantly timed slide tackle and Pedersen hoofs clear.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Twenty two million people will have had their hearts in mouths there. Zirkova is the most talented young defender we have but she’s just that, young, and that means she’s going to make mistakes.”

20:08 – SAVE – Much, much better from the Savojars. Maersk has been everywhere tonight and she’s done well here to set up Poulsen with space to shoot on the edge of the area. He’s normally a good finisher, yet can only hit a tame sidefooted effort straight at Belgrave. Even so that’s their first shot on target from open play which can only be considered an improvement.

20:10 – Better from the young Zirkova as well now. Bowman caused havoc at points in the first half and this time he’s driving in from the touchline towards the box leaving Nurkanen behind. Zirkova comes across and puts in a resolute challenge that forces Bowman back, and Nurkanen is able to clear.

20:12 – MISS – Bowman goes direct this time, attempting a shot from range. It flies over by a couple of metres.

20:15 – This half has been slower so far. It’s also been more equitable. Savojarna look considerably more comfortable on the ball than before and are playing more instinctively as a result. Mikaela Rangren seems to have compromised on her direct style and its had a positive impact.

Of course, just as I was typing that, Andersson sends a pass straight to the feet of Woakes, who then launches a shot from range that sails wide. A timely reminder that Eura have the capability to threaten from anywhere.

20:18 – We haven’t had a notable chance since Poulsen’s shot so Chris has gone to get me a coffee. All quiet on the Eastfield front.

20:19 – Now, this is interesting. Savojarna are lining up a second change after just 59 minutes. It must be another tactical switch.

20:20 – SUBSTITUTION – Coles concedes a throw in and here comes the change. Freya Sigurdsdottir is coming on for Arvid Jotansson who has been anonymous as Kristina Midström suggested might happen earlier. Big gamble this – the 33 year old could give Savojarna more bite and has plenty of experience, but she’s not been scoring and when she does it tends to be against weaker teams.

20:21 – SAVE – Finally Mikhail Jashkin is coming into the game properly. He’s been the only player in the last five minutes to threaten much, and has just stung Belgrave’s palms with a fizzing shot from 20 yards. The Directus keeper diverts the ball behind for a corner…

20:22 – …which he intercepts gracefully. Belgrave releases his team onto the counter with a long throw. Bowman gets beyond the half line before mixing up his feet and the ball goes out for a throw.

20:23 – Jashkin threatens again, this time forcing Ben Hall into retreat with a silky dribble at the edge of the box. He then flicks the ball on for Nurkanen who is bombing down the right on the overlap and the right back sends in a whipped cross that Blake heads away.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “Savojarna are vastly improved compared to the first half. We have a real game on here.”

20:24 – INJURY – Eura have got a problem here. They’re off on the counter when Bowman goes down and holding his calf. He doesn’t seem to be in a huge deal of pain and is soon back on his feet, however it’s not clear he will be able to continue.

20:25 - GOAL!

EURA 1 – 2 SAVOJARNA – MIKHAIL JASHKIN (65)

Oh dear. Now Eura have two problems because the Savojars have two goals, and it’s a stunner from Mikhail Jashkin. Vindication for Rangren as her tactical gambit pays off. Poulsen crosses from the left after taking a free kick quickly, and Sigurdsdottir is well positioned to head the ball beyond Roberts and Blake as they both rise to it. Jashkin waits at the back post on the right. He chests the ball down, and crisply drills the ball on the volley into the top left hand corner, through Hall’s block and Belgrave’s attempt to make himself big at the near post.

b]Kristina Midström on EBC TV:[/b] “Wow! Underdogs, they said...what a turnaround!”

20:26 – Michael Brandon paces in silent fury as he is prone to do. Just like that it’s Savojarna who are about half an hour from being champions of Rushmore again, the same number of times as Eura – who have competed at this level for much longer. This will be a serious test of the Euran team spirit, that’s for sure.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “Make no mistake; this is the most serious test of Michael Brandon’s management of the Euran national team so far. No-one begrudged him for the Farfadillis defeat in the World Cup. Losing a 1-0 lead after 40 minutes of dominance in a Copa final would be less easily excused.”

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “Jashkin’s finish is irresistible. I would have been proud of that one”.

High praise there for Jashkin from Sinclair, a footballing icon. I think Jashkin would happily trade it for the final whistle blowing now.

20:28 – CHANCE - A Euran double substitution is on the way which should surprise no-one. They’ll be allowed to make it after the ball goes out of play, Poulsen curling a shot just wide from outside the area.

20:29 – SUBSTITUTION – Right, Bowman is off which is a big blow, as is Rhys Griffiths who has been wasteful in front of goal. On come two veterans – Dion Underwood and Oscar Coltrane. If Eura don’t reach the final of the coming World Cup this could be their last chance at international silverware. No pressure then.

20:31 – Eura have switched to their classic 4-2-2-2 rather than pushing Bond out left to fit the 4-2-3-1. Coltrane will play on the right and Woakes on the left with Underwood partnering Bond up front. No sign that it’s worked yet.

20:33 – SAVE - Okay, that is more like it. Bond controls a ball forward from Hall magnificently with his left boot, performs a skilful flick over the head of Nurkanen and Woakes sprints on to it. She gets close to goal and shapes to shoot but Forsberg and Zirkova do an excellent job of narrowing her shooting angle. Pakanen saves without difficulty.

20:35 – Eura have their first corner of the second half, which has definitely been Savojarna’s better period. Armstrong sends it to the near post and Blake heads on. Sadly there is no-one at the back post to get another header on target.

20:38 – SAVE, CHANCE – After a quiet couple of minutes Savojarna have a couple of corners where they threaten to end the contest. Sigurdsdottir’s header is punched over by Belgrave from the first, and Forsberg volleys miles over the bar from the second. We are now in the 78th minute and Eura desperately need an equaliser. They need to produce something.

20:39 – MISS - Jashkin flashes a shot into the side netting when he’s given a second too long inside the box by Hall, who has not played brilliantly. Belgrave goes long with the goal kick, and Eura are away on the counter again...

20:40 – CHANCE – Goodness me, how have Eura not scored there! Forsberg and Zirkova are completely let down by their fullbacks who haven’t got back from the previous attack and its four on two. Coltrane has the ball and picks up a surprising amount of speed for a 34 year old, galloping deep into Savojar territory before passing to Woakes. Woakes does a stepover or two and throws Zirkova off balance, allowing her to pass – only she doesn’t, instead hesitating, before being charged down by a retreating Andersson. What a waste.

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “It’s so frustrating that we haven’t scored there, what was Moira playing at? They’ve got to get a grip sharpish.”

20:41 – MISS – The game is really livening up in the final stretch as Eura realise this is getting away from them. More complex interplay ends with Coltrane having a shot from a tight angle that sears through a crowd of bodies and only millimetres over the bar. Eura need to produce something now. They get another corner which comes to nothing.

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “If Savojarna hold on here it will be in no small part thanks to that second half centreback pairing of Forsberg and Zirkova. Apart from Zirkova’s near calamity when she came on they’ve been superb.”

STATS – We need to double check the accuracy of this, but according to our records Dion Underwood has scored more goals in the last ten minutes of games for Eura than any other player since Lee Sharp. If anyone can produce something here it may well be him.

20:42 – BOOKING - A long ball reminiscent of first half Savojarna achieves nothing for second half Savojarna. Belgrave hurries to get the ball way after catching it. Poulsen deliberately obstructs him and is booked for his trouble. Belgrave gets it up the pitch yet again; Eura aren’t playing out from the back any more.

20:43 – A lot of depressed faces in the red, blue and gold portion of the crowd right now. In stark contrast the Savojars are having a wild time.

20:44 – BOOKING – Pointless. Roberts cynically takes out Poulsen on the halfway line and goes into the book. Both Euran centrebacks are now booked which is another problem for Brandon. Savojarna try to get the ball into the Euran box only for Belgrave, again, to grab the aerial ball before anyone can meet it. Belgrave has heftily launched this up field from the edge of his box…

20:45 – GOAL!

EURA 2 – 2 SAVOJARNA – OSCAR COLTRANE (85)

It’s there! Genius from Belgrave, from Underwood and finally from Oscar Coltrane! Belgrave’s drop kick is wonderfully placed into a gap for Underwood to sprint on to. The 34 year old striker still has enough in him to run at track and field speeds for short periods and does so here, zipping past Forsberg and Nurkanen.

About 20 yards from goal Zirkova has been less slow and positioned herself to slide in. Underwood anticipated the challenge, hit a beautifully timed pass rightwards to Coltrane, and watched with delight as the Sabrefell Athletic icon laced an unstoppable drive into the top right hand corner from the edge of the box.

20:46 – I’m not sure if our commentary team have recovered yet from the drama of that goal. Let’s go back to them in a minute. In the meantime Savojarna have picked themselves up quickly to kick off and get down the other end but a Voynov cross is hoofed out for a corner by Coles.

Rangren is still shaking her head, clearly unhappy at the lack of organisation and defensive work rate that allowed Eura the opportunity to score. In Savojarna’s defence, when Eura pull together a move like that, there isn’t much anyone can do about it.

20:47 – Coltrane’s goal makes extra time highly likely now so I expect we won’t see either side use their third substitute right away. Our commentators are back:

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Heartbreaking. Rangren is right to be angry. What a goal though.”

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “I’m so proud of Ozzie. That’s the biggest goal of his career and he’s scored a few. Great work by Kevin and Dion too in the buildup.”

20:48 – Terry Chamberlain has just said something rather insightful. We didn’t catch the exact quote, basically though it appears that Scott Coles orchestrated that amazing counter attack from right back. On the replays he can clearly be seen having a word in Belgrave’s ear before the Savojar free kick came in, and he had instructed Underwood and Coltrane to both stay up for it.

STATS - That’s Oscar Coltrane’s first goal in a major international final. What a time to score it.

20:50 – Once again there’s a lull as both sides probe for a way through. I think that we are definitely going to extra time now. Only three minutes of stoppage time.

20:52 – MISS - Nothing more happens until the dying seconds when Mikhail Jashkin sets up Andersson for a shot. The defensive midfielder is not exactly a goalscoring machine and shows it with his skewed effort wide of the post.

20:53 – FULL TIME – MATCH GOES TO EXTRA TIME

EURA 2 – 2 SAVOJARNA

20:55 – Be honest. How many of you predicted it would come to this? We’re going to take a five minute break before play resumes.

STATS – Eura dominated the first half. The stats suggest Savojarna had the better of the second, reducing Eura’s hold on possession down to 57%, taking eight shots compared to Eura’s six. Savojarna also won four corners after having none in the first half, while Eura won only two.

21:00 – Ok, we’re back. Thanks to Harvey for that reflection on the stats. I know its cliché, but it has to be said that this has been a game of two halves and the numbers show it. The teams are back out. No substitutions have been made. Thirty minutes plus stoppage remain. If we’re still level after that it goes to penalties.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “I can see this coming down to either penalties or one team taking a single chance. If anyone scores in extra time they’ve won it.

21:03 – A bizarre start to extra time here in Eastfield Lodge where, in the first few minutes, I don’t think either team has got close to the others penalty area. Since the Coltrane goal the game has petered out.

21:05 – CHANCE – I spoke too soon. A mazy run from Poulsen ends in a good tackle by Blake. Unfortunately the ball rolls to Pedersen on the overlap who chips a masterful cross into the box. It’s at the perfect height to be met by Sigurdsdottir only for Roberts to head it out for a corner. Coles intercepts the corner easily and Eura break away.

21:07 – CHANCE – That really is dreadful by Bond who in fairness hasn’t threatened for a while now. The counter attack ends with the ball at his feet inside the box, and all he can do with it is drag a lame shot into the feet of Forsberg who clears.

21:08 – I don’t think this will go down well online:

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Brian Bond? He’s just a fancy Arvid Jotansson.”

Did she miss Eura’s first goal or…? I’m only kidding of course. Kristina has been the star of the show for our team tonight if the social media feedback is anything to be believed.

21:10 – SAVE – Close! I’m not sure what more Underwood could have done there. He’s placed a sublime shot as far as possible into the bottom right hand corner, and Pakanen has done a great job getting down to tip it around the post. Armstrong’s corner is then met by the head of Zirkova who has been having the game of her life at the back.

21:11 – Underwood is caught offside in a subsequent attack a minute later. Remarkably we’ve only seen five offside calls all game, three Euran and two Savojar.

21:13 – CHANCE - Exquisite piece of skill by Bond who isn’t done yet by any means. He rolls the ball from left to right foot like it’s stuck to him by some kind of invisible glue to keep Forsberg guessing. Then he slips it between the centre back’s legs, makes a trademark powerful run around him, and gets into the penalty area with only Nurkanen and Zirkova threatening to stop him.

Bond unselfishly decides not to risk a shot and lays the ball off for Woakes who has cut inside but she is too slow to the ball and Bond can only watch as Pedersen runs in to get there first.

21:15 – There’s one more shot from Woakes who tries to lob Pakanen ambitiously. It’s an easy save and going over anyway. That is the end of the first half of extra time.

HALF TIME IN EXTRA TIME

EURA 2 – 2 SAVOJARNA

21:18 – Some final input from our commentators as we briefly pause for half time in extra time, they’ve been discussing what the managers will be doing (or should be doing) at this very moment:

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “If I were Michael Brandon I’d be thinking about finishing this off now. Savojarna look tired and haven’t done anything for ten minutes. Eura have the quality to finish the job here, they just need one good chance and to take it. You don’t want the lottery of penalties.”

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “It’s been a difficult fifteen minutes for Savojarna. I think Mikaela Rangren maybe just needs to give them a bit of a calm talk compared to her usual stuff; tell them to keep going, keep plugging away and just look for that one opening. Eura have a mistake in them and as Craig said they’ll want to avoid penalties. Savojarna should take advantage of that and hit them on the counter.”

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “That tactical question, about whether to go for it in the last quarter of an hour or accept this is going to penalties and prepare for that psychologically…it’s a tough one. Savojarna have a great mentality to them and team spirit and are under less expectation than Eura. On the other hand Eura have a strong record historically in penalty shootouts. If I were either manager I’d forget about that until the last couple of minutes and just focus on eking out a set piece or something to break the deadlock.”

20:20 – SUBSTITUTION - Ok, the break is over and we’re now into the last fifteen minutes. Savojarna have made their choice; they’re going to try and nab a winner on the counter-attack and avoid opening up. An exhausted Matts Pedersen is swapped out for Niklas Hoyberg.

The Savojars switch to five at the back – Andersson drops into the defence with Hoyberg plugging the gap alongside Maersk in the centre, while Krister Voynov is asked to deputise at left back in Pedersen’s place. Poulsen has now drifted out to the left, leaving Sigurdsdottir alone up front. Eura are unchanged.

20:22 – MISS - Almost an immediate impact from the change. The five player backline steadfastly blocks off a Euran advance and acts as the base for a counter. Poulsen is clearly exhausted meaning Jashkin, who is still moving a lot on the right wing, bears the brunt of responsibility. He runs onto a long ball forward down the right, waits for Hall to commit to a challenge and then effortlessly drifts past him. He loops in a cross that Sigurdsdottir gets to first – her header goes just wide.

20:23 – Eura lose the ball as they try to play out and it’s with Jashkin again. He’s been exceptional tonight. The Farrenton midfielder tries to cut inside to shoot, and finally Hall gets the better of him, the Oakstone defender putting in a well-timed challenge to dispossess his opponent. There’s a roar of approval from the Euran portion of the crowd.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “It hasn’t come up a lot from us tonight here at EBC. To confirm, the crowd here in the Memorial Stadium is as good as it sounds to you at home. Both sets of fans haven’t stopped singing all night.”

20:25 – SUBSTITUTION – Only ten minutes remain and Eura have decided to make their final change. It’s a little bit of a risk actually as Harvey Blake makes way for Anthony Townsend who will play on the right wing, allowing Coltrane to play centrally as Eura switch to three at the back. Townsend is a decent penalty taker but given the change in formation I don’t think this is a case of Brandon playing for penalties.

20:26 – SAVE – OH MY WORD! That’s surely the save of the tournament by Kevin Belgrave.

A total cock up at the back for Eura – sound familiar? – as Roberts attempts a foolhardy through ball from defence that goes straight to Maersk. The Savojar captain reacts quickly despite her tiring legs and clips the ball away to Jashkin who is immediately away. Hall chases and Woakes doggedly tracks back – it doesn’t matter, Jashkin is bearing down on goal.

He gets to the box, one on one with Belgrave who decides against rushing out and stands his ground on the edge of the six yard box. At a roughly 45 degree angle to the right of the goal at the edge of the box, Jashkin looks likely to win the Copa Rushmori for Savojarna with a well hit curling finish into the top left hand corner. Belgrave is a big lad and still wouldn’t be expected to save this. Yet he does – full stretch, acrobatic dive slightly diagonal and backwards, flicking the ball over the bar with his glove. Sensational.

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “Phenomenal bit of goalkeeping that, reminiscent of his father. Surely that was the chance for Savojarna?”

20:27 – I have to say, Jashkin has been non-stop all game, now though he looks deflated for the first time. That was crushing. He’ll look back on that one for a long time. He rushes over to take the corner and hits it well. Belgrave is there to dominate the ball yet again.

20:29 – Eura are now getting forward and it looks like that’s the way it’s going to stay. They only need one opening, though I suppose Savojarna thought the same.

20:30 – MISS – Frustrating. Townsend rifles a shot low and hard and it goes just wide when he had three people in the box to pass to.

20:31 – The clock is ticking down now and Eura are passing it about a lot without any end product. Four minutes remain…

20:33 – A couple of aimless shots from Woakes and Armstrong fail to find the target. More time ebbs away.

STATS – Only a third of Eura’s shots have been on target tonight, compared to half for Savojarna. A disappointing performance from that perspective.

20:34 – SAVE – That was it. That was the chance. Brian Bond is set up by the cross Woakes has been looking for all game, a whipped effort that finds him 10 yards from goal. It’s a good header, down at the keepers feet, but Pakanen does well to save it with his right foot and Forsberg clears again. Both keepers have been on top form.

20:35 - FULL TIME IN EXTRA TIME

EURA 2 – 2 SAVOJARNA

THE MATCH GOES TO PENALTIES

20:36 - Penalties it is. Harvey has produced final stats for the 120 minutes of play plus stoppage time:

GOALS – EUR 2 – 2 SVJ
POSSESSION – EUR 59% - 41% SVJ
SHOTS ON TARGET – EUR 8 – 6 SVJ
SHOTS OFF TARGET – EUR 15 – 6 SVJ
CORNERS – EUR 9 – 6 SVJ
FOULS COMMITTED – EUR 12 – 17 SVJ
OFFSIDES – EUR 4 – 2 SVJ
YELLOW CARDS – EUR 2 (Blake, Roberts) – 3 SVJ (Andersson, Kjaer, Poulsen)
RED CARDS – EUR 0 – 0 SVJ

20:37 – It must be so tense for the players down there right now. Final thoughts from our commentary team:

Craig Sinclair on EBC TV: “There’s no way you can really prepare for a penalty shootout other than mentality training. Technically, it’s not a difficult task. Both teams should just pick the five people who look most confident and collected.”

Kristina Midström on EBC TV: “Savojarna have come such a long way to get here, this would be a cruel way to lose – and a thrilling way to win. It’s down to chance now.”

Terry Chamberlain on EBC TV: “If you were thinking of going to the toilet around about now, I’d recommend you don’t. Or do, if you’re of a nervous disposition, for the sake of the living room carpet.”

20:38 – That is just classic Terry Chamberlain. A Euran hero.

20:40 – The shootout is happening in the goal down to our right, with the Euran fans behind it. I doubt for professional footballers it makes much difference but, if it were me, I’d want to shoot at the opposition fans. They can distract you but they can’t look disappointed if you miss.

We’ll drop the time stamps now as there’s little point. Eura to take first. It’s going to be Brian Bond…

PENALTY – SCORED! BOND (EUR 1-0 SVJ)

I don’t think that was ever one Iiro Pakanen could save. Bond looked supremely confident as always and hammered it into the top left corner.

Savojarna’s first taker will be Sigurdsdottir. She’s taking her time…

PENALTY – SAVED! SIGURDSDOTTIR (EUR 1-0 SVJ)

Belgrave to the rescue yet again and Eura have an early advantage! He dives to his left and saves well from a decent but not unstoppable spot kick. Sigurdsdottir kicks the turf in annoyance.

Can Liam Armstrong double the advantage? He’s a good penalty taker, but famously missed one in stoppage time against Free Republics, dumping Eura out of the World Cup…

PENALTY – SCORED! ARMSTRONG (EUR 2-0 SVJ)

No problem at all for Armstrong. Cool as a cucumber, he dispatches it into the bottom right corner. Pakanen almost got there.

The pressure is really on now for Victoria Maersk.
 
PENALTY – MISSED! MAERSK (EUR 2-0 SVJ)

Disaster for Savojarna. Their ever reliable captain – who scored a penalty to equalise earlier - steps up after a short run up and takes a side footed shot against the right hand post. Belgrave went the wrong way, not that it matters. Maersk has her head in her hands as she walks back while Belgrave punches the air.

If Anthony Townsend scores this, Savojarna can’t miss another.

PENALTY – SAVED! TOWNSEND (EUR 2-0 SVJ)

A lifeline for Savojarna now, Townsend’s penalty is poor and Pakanen saves with his feet again! Great effort from him, poor from Townsend.

They have to take advantage of this now. It’s going to be Poulsen.

PENALTY – SAVED! POULSEN (EUR 2-0 SVJ)

YES! Sorry, my neutrality has wavered a bit there. Poulsen goes right and Belgrave goes to (his) left, clawing away what was a good penalty and in all likelihood winning Eura the Copa Rushmori. An incredible moment for the Directus keeper. This is harsh on Savojarna – a penalty shootout was always going to be a cruel way to end such a competitive final.

Oscar Coltrane can win the Copa Rushmori if he scores here.

PENALTY – SCORED! COLTRANE (EUR 3-0 SVJ)

EURA WIN THE PENALTY SHOOTOUT 3-0

COLTRANE SMASHES IT DOWN RIGHT AND MIDDLE AND PAKANEN CAN’T GET THERE! THEY’VE DONE IT!

EURA WIN THE 34TH COPA RUSHMORI

[Astograth]

COPA RUSHMORI XXXV
Matchday 1

Teams that had a bye day are not yet listed in the group tables.

Group A
Savojarna 4–3 Yuezhou
Olastor 1–0 Nethertopia

Group A                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Olastor                1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
  Savojarna              1   1  0  0    4   3  +1    3
3 Nethertopia            1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
  Yuezhou                1   0  0  1    3   4  −1    0

Group B
Pasarga 3–1 Ostralo
Plane of Possibility 5–2 Pedestrian States

Group B                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Plane of Possibility   1   1  0  0    5   2  +3    3
2 Pasarga                1   1  0  0    3   1  +2    3
3 Ostralo                1   0  0  1    1   3  −2    0
4 Pedestrian States      1   0  0  1    2   5  −3    0

Group C
Eura 5–1 Ancharmunn
Pridnestrovia 1–0 Mavinet

Group C                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Eura                   1   1  0  0    5   1  +4    3
2 Pridnestrovia          1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Mavinet                1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 Ancharmunn             1   0  0  1    1   5  −4    0

A RP writing prompt, which can be freely used or ignored by anyone with no penalty or bonus associated with using it: what is your nation's current relation to Rushmore? Isolated, integrated, resentful, looking to reach out? How does it feel about the Common Rushmori Community? How does the national team relate to that? How do players and staff feel about belonging to Rushmore? Is your nation's football association involved in these geopolitics?

[Kalosia]

The Kalosian National Football Team (KLS)

For the first time, Kalosia is making its debut in Copa Rushmori. The island nation situated in southeastern Rushmore is seeking to make a name for itself in a region bustling with sport and waterfowl. Although Kalosia had previously participated in the Olympics, it had never fielded a football team in the multiverse's largest sporting event, nor has the Kalosian team established an international presence. In an attempt to boost the people's morale at a time where the nation is under a medically necessary lockdown, the Kalosian national football team has ben sent to compete in the regional tournament.

Coach: Alfredu Parmi
Formation: 4–4–2
Style: -1.5
Nickname: Li Krešenti / The Crescents (their kit design features the crescent symbol, also present in the national flag)
Colours: Dark blue and white (flag colours)

01 GK Ǧiánkarlu Maržini
02 DF Benedetu Kruž
03 DF Rikardu Biažu (captain)
04 DF Kristoforu Altanu
05 DF Petru Kasini
06 MF Ťarlës Mersié
07 MF Agostinu Baľarti
08 FW Alesandru Martineli
09 FW Klaudiu Kasanu
10 MF Paólu Kartas
11 MF Kristianu Grisini
12 GK Luiž Florelu
13 DF Ǧovan Marseľanu
14 DF Mateo Korsikanu
15 DF Ǧamal Tunisi
16 DF Daniél Kasini
17 MF Sebastianu Kaľari
18 MF Gabriél Sardu
19 FW Marku Katalon
20 FW Mario Bonifaťu
21 MF Rajmondu Maržu
22 MF Ǧakomu Salvator
23 GK Martinu Lesku

Note: Starting players are bolded.

The Kalosian delegation arrived in Astrograth weeks ahead of their scheduled matches, to ensure that there was ample time to guarantee the health and wellbeing of its members (including a self-isolation period). They were greeted in the airport by Mahats Garayzabal, a 48 year old woman native to East Anzar province who would serve as their liason officer for the weeks to come. For the duration of La 35° Kopa Rušmori (as it is known domestically), the Kalosian national team's home base will be in Arexa, Astrograth, where the team will play its group matches at the Goyaingerua Stadium (capacity: 45,596). They are staying at the Goyanarte Hotel, a centuries-old four-story building located in a quiet neighbourhood in the city's northern side. The hotel is built in the traditional Araxes Valley style, although the interior of the building has been fully modernized. The team will train using the facilities of the city's largest football club. Royal Arexa, as they are called, are currently competing in Astrograth's Second Division league.

The nation awaits. Best of luck to our Crescents — do your best, Rushmore is watching you!

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
Choose My Goalscorers — Yes
Godmod Goalscoring Events — Yes, unless I post RP about it first
Injure Players — Yes, within reason
Godmod Injury Events — Yes, within reason
Red Card Players — Yes, within reason
Yellow Card Players — Yes, within reason
Godmod Other Events — Yes, but tell me first

Note: While I'm not explicitly requiring you to, I am available on Discord (intergalacticwifi#2746) if you wish to let me know ahead in case you're looking to godmod a match involving my team. Truth be told it's my first ever football RP so I'm looking to learn as well.

RP Note: There are currently travel restrictions imposed by the Kalosian government making it hard for Kalosians to travel abroad, particularly for leisure, although this has been gradually been lifted in the past couple of weeks. As a result, there will be a much, much smaller number of Kalosian spectators in the arena. Please keep this in mind when writing your RPs, thank you!

[Yue Zhou]

When Yuezhou football fans discussed the greatest moments in Red Dragons history, they were usually pretty limited in their options. Yuezhou 2-0 Eastfield Lodge, in the Cup of Harmony 70 Group Stage, was one of the few candidates, as was Yuezhou 1-1 Valladares or Yuezhou 3-2 Sarrbia in a long-gone Copa Rushmori group stage. Yuezhou 0-0 Apox in the World Cup Qualifiers was a candidate as well. Other than that, well...that was basically the list. And most of the matches ended up not mattering in the long term, or even the medium term. Yuezhou had lost three straight matches at that CoH70, culminating in a 6-1 pounding at the hands of Nephara, been pummelled by Valladares in the Ro16 at the Copa Rushmori, and finished a distant fourth in that qualifying group.

But this match had been different so far. This was the opening match of the Copa Rushmori, facing down reigning runners-up Savojarna in their own capital, and taking a 2-1 lead just after the start of the second half. Not only would a win be absolutely massive for the Red Dragons' chances of making their third Ro16 in any tournament, but it would send a message to the world - that Yuan Zilai's new-look Yuezhou were here to stay.

Admittedly, the 2-1 scoreline had been a bit of a fluke. Savojarna had been undeniably better in the first half, seriously testing Ruo Xiaolan's net with twelve shots. The Savojar team were hard-working and physical, often overwhelming Yuezhou's midfield as soon as they won the ball back, and their fast, direct wingers and adventurous fullbacks consistently overwhelmed the Red Dragons' poorly-guarded flanks. Even what had basically turned into a flat back five struggled to keep Savojarna at bay, and absolutely nobody was surprised when Voynov cut inside, put Han Jian on a highlight reel, and fired past Ruo after twenty minutes to send the home crowd into a frenzy.

Savojarna, correctly sensing weakness on the left flank, had continued to push forward, nearly doubling their advantage several times. But after Guo Xiawei managed to corral a blocked shot from Jotansson and found Gu Zhalei pushing forward, Yuezhou had pushed back with a left-sided counterattack of their own. Pedersen and Voynov had pushed forward aggressively in the pursuit of a second goal, leaving space in Savojarna's back line that Gu Zhalei split beautifully with a through-ball for Huang Shedong. The Beian City striker corralled the pass, accelerated past the dubiously-positioned Forsberg, and slotted the ball past Pakanen for the equalizer.

The less was said about the second goal, also against the run of play, the better. It sufficed to say that the Savojar fans were less than thrilled with the referee after Yang Tao had essentially been given a penalty for falling over in the box. Nevertheless, Gu Zhalei had scored the penalty with ease, and suddenly the Red Dragons were 2-1 up.

Holding onto the lead would be far from easy, and Savojarna had continued to threaten. Five minutes after Gu had scored the penalty, Guo Xiawei's pocket had been picked by Lundell while he had tried to find one of the forwards with a long ball. The North Laithland midfielder immediately drove forward and set up a cutting Jotansson with a pinpoint pass. None of the seven red shirts in the area had managed to cover the striker, and Jotansson fired a beautiful shot toward the upper-right corner. But Ruo Xiaolan anticipated the shot and made one of her trademark high-flying saves, barely tipping the ball over the crossbar.

The away fans in the crowd, as well as the entire staff, celebrated. But they would soon be wishing Ruo had let Jotansson score. Jashkin had taken the corner, Forsberg had been the first to get his head to the ball, and Han Jian's arm found itself in the wrong place and the wrong time. One Victoria Maersk penalty later, things were level again, and Yuezhou were down to ten men. It would not stay level for long.

[Savojarna]

Exactly on the second I promised - Cutoff window closes, and so does the cutoff itself!

Group D
Astograth 0–1 Graintfjall
The Askari Union 3–5 Southwest Eastnorth

  Group D                          Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Southwest Eastnorth                1   1  0  0    5   3  +2    3
2 Graintfjall                        1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Astograth                          1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 The Askari Union                   1   0  0  1    3   5  −2    0

Group E
Nephara 7–1 Kalactanian Rushmore Territories
Falkyr 0–1 Logria

  Group E                          Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Nephara                            1   1  0  0    7   1  +6    3
2 Logria                             1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Falkyr                             1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 Kalactanian Rushmore Territories   1   0  0  1    1   7  −6    0

Group F
Sargossa 4–0 Rea San Vegas
Valladares 4–1 Kalosia

  Group F                          Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sargossa                           1   1  0  0    4   0  +4    3
2 Valladares                         1   1  0  0    4   1  +3    3
3 Kalosia                            1   0  0  1    1   4  −3    0
4 Rea San Vegas                      1   0  0  1    0   4  −4    0

RP PROMPT: Your hosts have varying levels of success - Astograth won plenty of things, whereas Savojarna's success is historically moderate, but concentrated in the Copa Rushmori. What are people back home expecting from your team? Is it something that gathers everyone in front of the TV, or do your footballers play in obscurity? Do they have a special bond to the Copa, like the Savojars do, or is it just one minor tournament you'd happily trade in for that World Cup qualifiers? Are you looking for an upset against that Pot 2 nation and some good TV, or is the group stage merely a warmup for you?

[Graintfjall]

Article posted on the optimistic fan blog, www.GlassHalfFull.græ

Græntfjall should give up and go home now

Having crushed the hosts in one of the most dominant displays ever put forth on a football field, little now remains for Græntfjall to achieve. This Copa Rushmori field clearly poses little challenge for a group of players who are quite simply a class apart in terms of talent; there won’t be much to be gained from blunting their sharpness in pointless walkovers against them. With one eye on the upcoming Baptism of Fire and World Cup qualifying games, the Snow Wolves would get a tougher test going home and training against their Under-15 reserve counterparts than they would going through the motions here in Astrograth.

Five minutes is all it took for their team to establish their ascendancy: Bríana Noahsdóttir whipped in the corner, Vilbjörn Hjörleifursson soared like a Rushmori Eagle, his header laser-like in its precision and cannon-like in its power, viagra-like in its impact on this fan. Thereafter the defensive tactics clearly reflected a desire not to embarrass the hosts; sporting and generous, but hardly showing what the Snow Wolves are truly capable of. Jason Þórhallursson was off within an hour having barely touched the ball; he didn’t need to. Their work here was done. Any time Astrograth did threaten an attack, Alexander Leonardsson was on hand (and leg, and midriff) with a sprawling save.

Frustration mounted on the Astrograth side as they realized they were, quite simply, outmatched. Indartsu Lekea earned a second yellow and his marching orders; he was probably relieved to be allowed to slip quietly from the field of conquest while his teammates struggled on. Graciously, Græntfjall didn’t take advantage of their 11-on-10 advantage: after showing how dominant they were when nominally evenly matched, it might have been even more sporting to let Astrograth play with 12. More sporting – but not making any difference to the final result. This Snow Wolves team is one that could beat 22 players into submission and still have energy to lead a skál chant.

What is left to accomplish? The remaining games in this tournament are likely to be a procession; if the final ends with anything other than a 3-0 victory to Græntfjall, it will only be because they’ve won by 4 or 5 instead. But will that prove a good workout ahead of the World Cup (which they must also now be considered prohibitive favorites to not just win, but dominate)? On this showing, not likely. As they head to Urbizania, they’d be better off taking to the slopes for some recreational skiing than suffering through the monotony of yet another thrashing.

Article posted on the pessimistic fan blog, www.GlassHalfFullOfPiss.græ

Græntfjall should give up and go home now

So, our worst predictions failed to come true. Somehow, Græntfjall managed to actually win a solitary game. Which only now means our even worse prediction, one so awful we feared to even speak it aloud before, will now come true: the team will go on to lose through overconfidence. Losing through mere lack of skill, in its own way, forgiveable. This team aren’t good enough, they know it, their opponents know it, everyone knows it. But starting to believe they really are good enough – and then losing? Humiliation upon humiliation…

The listless, if not downright clueless, performance against Astrograth cannot be overlooked just because the scoreline happened to favor the team that trailed in possession, passes made, shots on goal, basic footballing competence, and routine-through-balls-not-wildly-hoiked-into-the-stands. The goal summed up Græntfjall’s footballing aspirations: bumble a corner, somehow; hope it accidentally bounces off your tallest player’s head and makes its way into the net; celebrate. And celebrate they did, running off to laud themselves in front of the small, deluded group of Snow Wolf Pack fans who’d made the trip to Rumiatzi. The sad fools – and I’m not just talking about the fans.

When a central midfielder wins the Player of the Match award, what usually comes to mind? They must have controlled possession, their incisive mazy runs splitting the defense, their clinical passes opening up scoring opportunities. Or, in Amanda Guttisdóttir’s case, they must have parked themselves like a bus in front of the back four, barely ventured out of their own penalty arena, and spent their time merrily clipping ankles, throwing elbows, and thanking their lucky kumquats* the referee awarded them only one of the approximately eight bookings they deserved.

4-4-2 became 5-4-1, became something approaching 6-4-0, as Sigtryggur Brynjólfursson rang the changes. Even that wasn’t enough to prevent attack after attack. Yasone Urdanibia, Azeari Duarte, Yokin Arana, Indartsu Lekea, there wasn’t a name on the Astrograth team not lining up to take shots on goal. That some of them were intercepted by Alexander Leonardsson spoke less to any particular skill than to mere happenstance. When Iraunkor Berdesagar had a late run on goal and Leonard came out to smother the chance, he appeared to fall flat in absolute terror at having to face a vaguely professional footballer, only for the resulting shot to thud into his wildly flailing legs anyway.

Quit while you’re ahead, Snow Wolves. You beat a 10-man side, probably distracted by the pressures of playing at home. By all means stop off at a casino on the way, to keep the sheer luck fueling this little success going. But then head home, before the meagre little firework you’ve set light sputters to Earth and turns to bitter ash.

* As a freezing cold alpine nation, tropical fruits are considered especially lucky in the otherwise fairly unsuperstitious Græntfjaller culture.

[Trans-Dniesters]

THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF THE UNITED SOCIALIST STATES OF PRIDNESTROVIA
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL TEAM

The Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia is not overly familiar with humiliation. Failure yes, there has been a lot of that since the entry of the Pridnestrovian Republic into the greater multiverse; but humiliation not so much. Until the 32nd Copa Rushmori, when the Pridnestrovian national football team turned in one of the most abject performances that a national team could ever put in in the history of football. Couple that with suspicions that something funny may have been happening in Qusmo and the Pridnestrovian Republic is not really that excited for the 35th Copa Rushmori this time around. However, things are looking up a little bit: Werner Ceausescu has agreed to return to managing the national team for another shot at the regional title, but will his age have finally caught up with him and the team? Only one way to find out, of course.

BASIC INFORMATION
Name of nation: The Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia
Demonym: Pridnestrovian
Team colors: Green and red
Style modifier: +4 (a return to super-attacking football)
Formation: 3-5-2
Head coach: Werner Ceausescu (74 y/o, Pridnestrovia)

STARTERS
GK: Ferdinand Julius ABBING 38 y/o, Dinamo Bender , vice-captain
Five years as the starting goalkeeper of Dinamo Bender and leading them to the Pridnestrovian Cup twice in those five years is surely the sign of a great goalkeeper, good enough to dethrone Svyatoslav Alkaev from the number 1 spot and take it for himself. Ferdinand Abbing is an excellent space manager and can handle anything from inside his box and also doesn't hesitate to rush out and put fear in the hearts of rushing opposition players. (Basically a clone of Manuel Neuer.)

RCB: Boris Vladislavovich LERMONTOV 25 y/o, Birdingstone United (Ethane)
He's so good at defending that he's divine. At least that's what Ufa claims when they put Boris Lermontov up on the free agent list. But if he's a divine defender then why is the team that came in fifth in the Pridnestrovian Super League allowing Lermontov to switch clubs for free? It seems as if he might just be the missing piece of the puzzle that they need to finally get into the Globe Cup places once again or even a title challenge.

CB: Branimir Aleksandrovich NOCHEVSKI 31 y/o, Union Rheinburg
The older brother of Pridnestrovian basketball star Fotij Nochevski. Branimir was always going to be the lesser known of the Nochevski siblings, and both of them knew it. While Fotij gained the fame and the accolades, Branimir kept his head down and worked quietly in the Pridnestrovian lower leagues. His high defensive work rate caught the eye of Union Rheinburg, and he proved instrumental in their title-winning season in the Pridnestrovian Super League in the 2024-25 season as well as two title challenges and Globe Cup campaigns in 2026 and 2027.

LCB: Timur Timurovich SHALYAPIN 29 y/o, Paulsen FC (Abanhfleft)
Timur Shalyapin has now been involved in two great escapes with Paulsen FC. Whether it has anything at all to do with him or if Paulsen have really just gotten lucky both times is still up for debate. There's no denying that Shalyapin is a great defender; no one adds Sporting Ceneisis to their CV if they aren't good.

RWB: Yevgeniy Yevgeniyevich TATARINOV 29 y/o, Shakhtar Rheinburg

RCM: Horea Vladislav ANTONESCU 31 y/o, Lokomotiv Novosverdlovsk

CM: Semyon Ilyich ARSOV 26 y/o, Hullbury Town (Ethane)
Pridnestrovia seems to have a glut of good central midfielders, especially one who can defend their own box and then spread the play out, and Semyon Arsov is just one of them. Arsov tried his best to bring Novosverdlovsk back up to the Pridnestrovian Super League but they just couldn't do it, and the new manager has outright stated that Semyon has no place in his plans.

LCM: Dmitry Anatolyevich NOVIKOV 29 y/o, Pasargad Manitogoro (Sultanate of Oontaz)

LWB: Mitrofan Maksimovich MATVEYEV 26 y/o, Ufa Verkhovyansk

CF: Akhmet Magomedovich DAVIDOV 31 y/o, Shakhtar Rheinburg
It's now two teams on the outside looking in that Akhmet Davidov has helped to the Pridnestrovian Super League title. Everyone knows the story of how Fortuna Novonikolaysk emerged as the most consistent out of all sides during the 2021-22 season to lift their first ever Pridnestrovian title, helped by Davidov's 20 goals that season including a hat trick against Admiral Novorossiysk. Sure, he didn't play as big a role for Shakhtar Rheinburg's 2027 triumph, but 15 goals isn't anything to scoff at either. The sheer fact that he is able to conjure goals seemingly out of nowhere has turned him into a very valuable asset for Shakhtar and Pridnestrovia, a skill that the defensive-minded Gaetano Bernardeschi will be keen to take advantage of this campaign.

CF: Filipp Pavlovich DYKHOVICHNY 30 y/o, Locomotive Imgortur (Abanhfleft)
Filipp Dykhovichny had an impressive start to life in the Fleftic Premier League after moving to Eielo Sunlight from Chernomorets Bratsk, and after Eielo were relegated Dykhovichny signed with Locomotive Imgortur, where he has made a name for himself as a dependable goalscoring option. Dykhovichny hasn't been able to do the same for the Pridnestrovian national team but most people agree that it's only a matter of time before Dykhovichny opens his account for the Red Army.

RESERVES
GK: Fyodor Isaakovich EKSTATOV 33 y/o, Fortuna Novonikolaysk
Fyodor Ekstatov knows that he will never have a season quite like 2021-22. It's a cliche of course, maybe already an overused one, but in Ekstatov's case it certainly rings true. Clean sheets have been hard to come by in the Pridnestrovian Super League, leading to the stat becoming a little bit meaningless. Of course the ability is still quite highly prized, but more because of its rarity than the ability to get results out of it. Hence why Ekstatov is more than happy to warm the bench for the national team while collecting his wages from Fortuna.

GK: Ivan Kazimirovich KOSTIN 25 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi (Sultanate of Oontaz)

DEF: Kazimir Ivanovich KOVALEVSKY 26 y/o, Botafogo de Maranao (Sultanate of Oontaz)

DEF: Jason Edgar REUSS 23 y/o, Paulsen FC (Abanhfleft)

DEF: Lucas Arnim SCHEFFEL 27 y/o, FC 23 August

DEF: Urgan Abramovich SPETSIUK 30 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol

MID: Yeremey Vasilyevich TSVETNOV 26 y/o, Shakhtar Rheinburg

MID: Klaus Ludwig KHVASHCHYNSKI 32 y/o, Union Rheinburg

MID: Bilal Azad KÜÇÜK 25 y/o, Rotor Dnistrosh

MID: Venyamin Vasilyevich TUROV 22 y/o, Kesselburger Kickers

FW: Adrian Gervas SALLER 28 y/o, Fortuna Novonikolaysk

FW: Petro Metodiev ZHDANOV 33 y/o, Wanda Island Wanderers (Abanhfleft)
Petro Zhdanov is a reliable goalscoring threat. That much is undisputed. What is in dispute is whether Zhdanov can be used in the role of a team's main striker or if he needs support, be it in the form of a second striker on the pitch or a substitute coming off the bench. Zhdanov may have only scored 7 league goals during Wanda Island's title-winning season in the Fleftic Premier League but that was because he had help in the form of Leigh Oswald and Arthur MacAlistair. But after Oswald went back to his homeland and MacAlistair was sidelined by injuries throughout the 2028-29 season, Zhdanov tried and failed to take up both of their goalscoring mantles, and Wanda Island's season suffered as a result.

STARTING LINEUP (Outdated)


KITS (by Adidulas)


IMPORTANT STATISTICS
Win-loss record: 57-20-57 (penalty shootouts are counted as draws regardless of final result)
First international match: VS Aynard (W 6-0)
First win: VS Aynard (6-0)
First loss: VS Fratton (0-1)
Biggest win: VS Nurkama (9-0)
Biggest loss: VS Pasarga (2-6)

BOF 58: 6-1-2 (lost to The Hakifao Isles in the final)
WC 71: 6-2-6 (fifth in Group 12 of qualifying)
COH 63: 1-1-2 (knocked out by Zenic in round of 16)
CR 22: 1-0-2 (third in Group A)
CR 23: 3-0-3 (knocked out by Saintland in round of 16)
CR 24: 1-0-3 (knocked out by Valladares in round of 16)
WC 75: 6-4-7 (fourth in Group A of finals group stage)
CR 25: 1-0-3 (knocked out by Pasarga in round of 16)
CR 26: 2-0-3 (knocked out by Eastern Sunrise Islands in quarterfinals)
GCoS 2: 4-2-1 (lost to The Redvale in the final)
CR 27: 3-2-3 (lost to Nephara in third place playoff on penalties)
GCoS 3: 6-2-0 (champions, defeated Rhineland Sued in the final)
CR 28: 1-2-1 (lost to Sameba in the Round of 16)
WC 79: 5-0-13 (8th out of 10 teams in Group 1 of qualifiers)
CoH 71: 1-1-2 (4th out of 5 teams in Group F)
CR 29: 5-0-2 (runners-up, lost to Valladares in final)
CMC 1: 2-2-0 (lost to Terre des Gaules in Round of 16 on penalties)
CR 30: 3-0-2 (lost to Valladares in quarterfinals)
WC 82: 1-8-9 (10th out of 10 teams in Group 9 of qualifiers)
CR 31: 1-0-2 (3rd out of 4 teams in Group C)
CR 32: 0-1-2 (4th out of 4 teams in Group A)

SCHEDULE
WIP

HOME STADIUM (NEW ARMY STADIUM, TIRASPOL)

New Army Stadium in Tiraspol is the home stadium of CSKA Tiraspol and can comfortably seat over 80,000 spectators following a three-year capacity expansion project.

RP PERMISSIONS
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (I decide severity)
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes (3 per game)
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes (1 per 2 games)
Godmod other events: Yes (TG me first)

WIP

[Southwest Eastnorth]

FORMATION 3-3-4-1 (F-M-D-G)
Style Modifier +4
COACH: Umberto Tipoli (age 67)
ASSITANTS: Dennetter DiMore (Age 41), Joe Rox (Age 57), B.J Rotheborune (age 39)

FORWARDS
#10 Van Austin - White Sock United
#8 Kyra Thompson - Auberlin Federal FC
#11 Chris Houton - White Sock United
#27 Leigh Bourne - Grandal Wild FC
#29 Jeremy Murdock - Topps Valley Heritage FC
#40 Martin Boussard - Mt Moustakis

MIDFIELDERS
#17 Ryan Bourne - Colome Range United
#2 Alfonso Rogilio - White Sock United
#16 Mark Martz-Marx - Journey Bay FC
#24 Jessica Ryan - Topps Valley Heritage FC
#25 Kevin Elder - Yelichville Union
#30 Jayson Rox - Yelichville Union

DEFENDERS
#95 Burt Snodgrass - Journey Bay FC
#84 Iva Johncock - White Sock United
#44 David C Hall - White Sock United
#37 Shauna LeClaire - University of Virginia City
#19 Esther Bloemfurst - PFC Canada City
#49 Jay Richardson II - Auberlin Federal
#55 Devin Thompson - Mt Moustakis
#77 Gerrard Klattenberg - Fleer College

GK
#0 Miles Mikohoffer - Auberlin Federal FC
#00 Adam Stonkowski - Univeristy of Virginia City

[Southwest Eastnorth]

Massive overhaul of the system works wonders for SWEN!
Article takes excerpts from - swensport.swe/national_football_team.html

ASTOGRATH - The Southwest Eastnorth Fronteirsmen have run the gauntlet twice in the Copa Rushmori twice once the beginning of Southwest Eastnorths lfe as a nation, and the second a few years ago. You know how many combined wins SWEN had? ZERO! one draw a few years ago against Taeshan, that ended 0-0 has been the lone point in the 7 international footballing attempts of the nation. After the first round in Astograth, we have triple that! We won! To top it off wonder kid Chris Houton the 20 year old prospect whose played with the great White Sock United since High School has propelled the SWENIC Fronteirsmen/Pioneers to glory in Astograth. He did so with a hat trick masterpiece!

The man behind this crazy crazy victory? Umberto Tipoli a member of some of the last generation of Tonissian's who fled the repressive regime in the great Rushmori migration arguably one of the top athlete's from Tonissia to do so. He has brought his attacking style to the SWEN footballing world and we are looking at an immediate payoff. The new attack style saw plenty of fun footwork and speedy attacks The midfield who are still being coached by Ol' Joe Rox, but he really got them goin and the footwork has been sublime! Houton was the primary scorer as the wonderkid of Swennic football look at ease and showed his skill to the rest of the world and got a hat trick in just one hour of play!

Next up for the Frontiersmen/Pioneers are the Graintfjall Snow Wolves. The northern team as the nickname would indicate are a part of the new breed of Rushmori NT's that have spread in the last decade, along SWEN, Rea San Vegas, and Plane of Possibility. THey will have had an additonal game as we have the next MD with a Bye and Graintfjall will have played Askari too.

Southwest Eastnorth - 5
Houton 12' 39' 71'
L Bourne 42'
Austin 80'

Askari Union - 3
Sylvain Croxier - 27' 65'
Persephone Vigny - 88'

[Sargossa]

Copa Rushmori XXXV


Sargossa - 'The Corsairs'



Head Coach

Juan José Barreto
The latest into the family trade, Juan José follows in the footsteps of dad Julio and most notably grandfather Félix into the world of coaching. And they are quite some footsteps as Félix ‘The Professor’ Barreto is widely considered one of the finest Sargossan tacticians ever. But what he never achieved, due to bad timing and a Football Federation obsessed with all thing Candelariasian, was the chance to lead his country. Two generations later a Barreto finally gets the chance. After failure to qualify for the last World Cup it's probably fair to say that the honeymoon is officially over.


Backroom Staff

Assistant Head Coach: Luca Monzón
Defensive Coach: Guillermo Lucena
Attacking Coach: Alejandro Tapia
Goalkeeping Coach: Armando Abad
Fitness Coach: Mario Sánchez
Team Doctor: Dr Carla Segura


Talent

GK: 1. Roberto Penedo (31) – Ciudad Soluca
GK: 13. Sergio Arrabal (23) – Alianza Jucaro
GK: 25. Tomás Gaos (32) – Sportivo Cordova

Penedo’s chances of keeping hold of the number one spot are hardly hindered by the appointment of his club coach to the national team helm. Sergio Arrabal spent his formative years as a hugely talented understudy to Penedo at Ciudad. An excellent first season after his move to Jucaro is rewarded with a first call-up. Gaos provides a more experienced back-up option.

DR: 2. Carlos Carter (27) – Sporting San Marquez
DC: 5. Juan Esnáider (28) – Alianza Jucaro
DC: 6. Valentín Alarcón (26) – Ciudad Soluca
[b] DL: 3. Saúl Escribano (31) – Sportivo Soluca
DLC: 12. Josué Ruiz (29) – Ciudad Soluca
DRC: 14. Enrique Muñoz (33) – Sporting San Marquez
DR: 19. Alonzo Zevallos (34) – Ciudad Soluca
DC: 21: Hugo Galán (25) – Yaton FC (Taeshan)

Wingbacks tend to form the most important function in Barreto’s system and in Carter and Escribano he has nice balance in his first choice eleven. New captain Juan Esnáider will form a tough barrier at the back, mostly likely alongside Ciudad duo Ruiz and Alarcón. The ever-green stalwart Alaonzo Zevallos provides experience and a cutting thrust down the right if required.

DMC: 4. Esteban Pomar (26) – El Nacional
AMR: 7. Diego Puebla (34) – El Nacional
MC: 8. César Goyoso (31) – Sporting San Marquez
AML: 11. Esteban Leguizamo (26) – Blacklake Blues (Taeshan)
AMRC: 15. Daniel Correa (28) – Alianza Jucaro
MC: 16. Adrián Fonseca (29) – Ciudad Soluca
DMC: 18. Luís Vazquez (35) – Ciudad Soluca
MC: 22. Juan Sebastián Varela (23) – Alianza Jucaro
AMLC: 24. Mauro Pereira (27) – Sportivo Cordova

César Goyoso continues as the metronome at the heart of the Sargossan side. Adrián Fonseca excelled domestically under Barreto and is hot favourite to partner Goyoso in the centre, with Esteban Pomar providing some much needed bite. The Alianza scouts seem to have unearthed yet another diamond from the lower leagues in the form of Varela, he will surely play his part. A criticism levelled at Barreto in the past has been his unwillingness to switch from his basic 5-3-2, so wingers may get short shrift, but after a disappointing World Cup campaign fresh ideas may be required.

FLC: 9. Mauricio Sainz (24) – Ciudad Soluca
FRLC: 10. Diego Alejandro Costa (26) – Ciudad Soluca
FC: 17. Fabián Guzmán (33) – Sporting San Marquez
FRC: 20. Diego Cazalla (23) – Alianza Jucaro
FL: 23. Alonzo Bienvenida (26) – Sportivo Cordova
FC: 26. Tomas Murillo (31) – Sportivo Soluca

The final transfer sanctioned by Barreto before he left Ciudad was the expensive and controversial cross-capital poaching of Diego Alejandro Costa to partner targetman Mauricio Sainz. That duo is expected to be the starting attack for the new look national side. Murillo and Guzmán are well seasoned operators and should compete with talented newcomer Cazalla for a starting berth.


Style

Juan José Barreto’s coaching philosophy is proof that the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree’s tree. Granddaddy Félix was a 5-3-2 traditionalist and his grandson is very much built in the same image. His sides are built to be solid, with five at the back that soak up pressure before launching lightning fast wide counter strikes when possession is won back. As such the wingbacks are comfortably the most important pieces in the puzzle.

The SuperLiga is quite a physical league so challenges can often be described as 'uncompromising' and cards are pretty common. Gamesmanship, while never encouraged, is also not entirely uncommon. But diving is considered particularly stigmatic so Sargossan players are unlikely to be found doing it.

Style Modifier = (+1)



Kit
Courtesy of ediraf





Permissions
If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Please do
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (within reason)
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out Red cards to my players: Yes
Godmod Other Events: Yes. Just no killing anyone.

[The Askari Union]

THE ASKARI UNION
Preferred Formation: 4-2-3-1
Style Modifier: 1.25
Playstyle: The long spectre of Skorjiball has left a mark in a nation now trying to play more aggressive, fast-paced, energetic style.
Kit Supplier: Cloaker
Captain: Lux Siravoi
Nickname: la Delfenoj

Having survived the whirlwind of S K O R J I B A L L, the financial implosion of their league (which limps on still, just, without room for foreign players) and three political coups in short succession, the Askari belatedly limp on to new pastures. Having achieved mediocre results in the past at the regional level, it's, well, unlikely that can maintain.

Without foreign players or investment, the Legaskari is a shadow of its former self, which was in its heyday... not very good. All the best Askari players are abroad, and those who aren't yet, aspire to. There have been extensive recent overhauls, however, as the prior 'golden' generation has simply aged out.

Supplied by a mostly curious Cloaker, of Nephara. Capitalist scum they might be, but they have far more modern technology.

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers:        Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events:    N
Injure Players:               Y
Godmod Injury Events:         N
Red Card Players:             Y
Yellow Card Players:          Y
Godmod Other Events:          N
=================================

Tactics

First-choice lineup.
The Askari have gained in confidence now, and are now able to play to their strengths. The Askari themselves tend to be smallish and more technically gifted than athletic, but a newfound emphasis on 'getting it up there' has taken over, and big lads from Eura have stabilised the spine of the team. Prior Askari sides have been more defensively focused and with an emphasis on pace, but Oslograd had taken to repeatedly yelling "THE BALL IS ROUND" at athletically-oriented plays in training, and it stuck.

Staff
Manager: Amelie Pernaud - Age 53
Asst. Manager: Pepin Espinosa - Age 48

As manager of Dinamo Sainati, Pernaud oversaw a period of prosperity, and has dominated the game after the Withdrawal. She's the only choice for the job.

Goalkeepers
1 - GK - Dramane Caragin - Age 31 - FC Elan
12 - GK - Dorothea Soumare - Age 23 - Branvon (KOR)
18 - GK - Isolde Gaetjen - Age 32 - Duredain Barricade

Soumare's the undoubted starter, distinctly overweight for a footballer but clever with her feet and great at distribution, as well as a good instinctive shot-stopper.

Defenders
2 - RB - Cygnet Valeri - Age 32 - Walston Brook Albion (EFL)
3 - LB - Desdemone Facchin - Age 23 - AS Sainati
4 - CB - Bixente Lalonde - Age 31 - Utica United (OSR)
5 - CB - Agostino Montargis - Age 23 - Dinamo Sainati
13 - LB - Bella Vesper - Age 22 - Hussards
17 - RB - Ettore Bajardi - Age 30 - FC Elan
19 - CB - Francisca Barone - Age 31 - SSC Honneur

A rash of international retirements means that the old guard gives way to the new, at least in part; Valeri remains a stalwart, versatile fullback, the journeyman Lalonde a composed head at the back, while the bruiser Montargis and the vespine Facchin are rougher, more athletic talents.

Midfielders
6 - HM - Lux Siravoi (c) - Age 33 - New Cloudsdale Colonists (NCL)
8 - CAM - Susaeta Etxeita - Age 33 - Q-Bee Honeyame (HIN)
10 - RAM - Ravanna Ballarin - Age 29 - Hwoarang Seidoshi (HIN)
11 - LAM - Delphi Clemaron - Age 21 - Duredain Barricade
14 - CM - Valentina Cavicchi - Age 22 - AC Sainati
15 - CAM - Laguna Santutxu - Age 25 - Cartagena Desert Foxes (OSR)
16 - CM - Alessa Leonard - Age 31 - Aznavour OSC
20 - LAM - Marciano Improta - Age 30 - AC Sainati
22 - RAM - Leo Kamara - Age 22 - AC Sainati
23 - HM - Ascol Vivaldi - Age 28 - Aznavour OSC

Traditionally a strength of the side, but age is starting to take a toll. Siravoi's an experienced, reliable anchor in midfield, with the flaky, talented Cavicchi alongside her. On the right wing, Ballarin might be the star; her best asset is her pace, and her directness can gash teams; Clemaron's faster still, but decidedly raw. Santutxu can finally emerge from Etxeita's shadow and start to properly run games. Little can be expected from the substitutes, though there's some raw talent there.

Forwards
7 - ST - Sylvain Croxier - Age 23 - Alnio (CMT)
9 - ST - Renate Eskalza - Age 20 - Aznavour OSC
21 - ST - Persephone Vigny - Age 28 - Hussards

Muscular brawler Croxier's become an unexpected star in Chromatika, and none too soon with the retirement of Askari legend Sierra Aurtenetxe. Eskalza has potential. Vigny does not.

[Plane of Possibility]

Field of Dreams
Plane of Possibility
After MD1

Plane of Possibility 5-2 Pedestrian States
Arrowstorm '22, Mietre '49, Irota '54, Shadow '68, K'nen '85

Hope Lamont blinked. The first match had gone rather well, as five goals had been scored in regular increments, three of them by the new tieflings. Now, they were back on the Plane, except one thing had changed:

They simply hadn't been sent home yet.

Sir Urael came jogging up, his brows furrowed.

"Cleric of the Dawn," he stated in his gruff voice, "Why has the foul being not messed with our memories and sent us back to our realms? I need to go back to my duties."

"Oh, come on," stated M'tok K'nen, "What does it matter? When we get snapped back, we'll go back to exactly the moment that we left, and we won't even remember."

Hope nodded slowly, before speaking in an even, measured tone, "We don't know how things work, and it's possible that with these Tieflings, things are a little different. We should meet them, and figure out what has changed."

The four - Sigrun with them as well - nodded, and went off to talk to the Tieflings. This was what they learned:

Three of them - Kosxire, Malaia, and Fribis - were from the same city in the realm of Neverwinter. Bard, Druid, and Barbarian, they had been adventuring together for one of the Tiefling families before being taken.

Two of them - Riki and Sorrow - were from a mage's tower in the Kryn Dynasty of Wildmount, learning from one of the high mages.

One of them - Ariqine Arrowstorm - was on a mission to find a gem in the middle of a dessert in the realm of Faerûn.

And the last - Malmong Shadow - wouldn't say. Either they were mute, or just didn't care enough.

Funnily enough? All seven of them knew how to play, and were decent enough at it.

So... Why was it that they weren't gone yet? Could the magic of the realm work for more than a day at a time continuously?

There was only one way to make sure...

[Trans-Dniesters]

ПРИДНЕСТРОВСКАЯ ЦЕНТРАЛЬНАЯ НОВОСТИ АГЕНЦИЯ • PRIDNISTROWISCHE ZENTRALE NACHRICHTENAGENTUR • AGENȚIA CENTRALĂ DE ȘTIRI TRANSNISTREANĂ • PRIDINYESTER MERKEZI HABER AJANSI • PRIDNESTROVIAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY

PRIDNESTROVIA, RUSHMORE, AND THE COPA RUSHMORI: A COMPLICATED RELATIONSHIP
By Gustav Tyumenov


Filipp Dykhovichny and Semyon Arsov celebrate Dykhovichny scoring the opening goal of Pridnestrovia's campaign in the 35th Copa Rushmori against Mavinet.

VIRKAJA, SUMANEN, SAVOJARNA - Pridnestrovia returns to international footballing action by taking to the field in Savojarna for the 35th Copa Rushmori. But behind the sporting action of the national football team, there is also action with regards to Pridnestrovia's relationship with the greater Rushmore community as a whole.

It has been a fact of life, at least within the halls of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, that Pridnestrovia has struggled to integrate itself as a respected and law-abiding member of the Rushmore community. Our nation's entry into the Common Rushmori Community way back in the final term of President Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko was initially rejected because of the Community's concerns about the democracy, or lack thereof, in our electoral system. And while I recognize that this is neither the place nor the time to speak ill of our fellow Rushmoris, they were simply not here to witness when the Pridnestrovian people overwhelmingly voted President Field Marshal Stepanenko to his fifth consecutive term under the Constitution of 2009. They were not here to see how much the people adored President Field Marshal Stepanenko so much, and they were not here to see how the people mourned the death of President Field Marshal Stepanenko following the conclusion of the ESTORVIPAN War. There were also other parties listed in the elections alongside the Communist Party of Pridnestrovia; small parties for sure but they were there on the rolls. And people did vote for those small parties and their candidates, but they were all soundly defeated in the popular vote by the CPP. And I guess for the people in the CRC, this was equivalent to being a dictatorship. And the Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia is most definitely not a dictatorship.

With the passing of President Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko came a change in terms of international opinions and perceptions about Pridnestrovia itself. Under the terms of the 2009 Constitution, Prime Minister Durag Kirillovich Nikovgorodiev succeeded President Field Marshal Stepanenko as President of Pridnestrovia upon the latter's death, and the President of the Congress of People's Deputies Raisa Innokentiyevna Fedorenko took over the responsibilities and duties of the Prime Minister. Under the tandem of Nikovgorodiev and Fedorenko, Pridnestrovia embarked on a new campaign to reinvent itself, a campaign which has so far succeeded in terms of Pridnestrovia finally joining the ranks of the Common Rushmori Community. And yet another stumbling block is yet to be hurdled, and that block is unfortunately the bureaucratic nature of the Pridnestrovian government apparatus. The paperwork has been cleared; both the people and the politicians are ready and willing to finally become official members of the Common Rushmori Community, but the bureaucracy itself has yet to turn the gears to finally get this through.

Pridnestrovia's history in the Copa Rushmori is a bit more straightforward. Pridnestrovia were accepted into the Copa Rushmori almost as soon as the Pridnestrovian Football Union sent their application to the organization, proof that sports really is a unifying force throughout the multiverse. Oftentimes it matters not the kind of people who are in charge of a country, whether it's a parliamentary democracy or an absolute monarchy or a military junta or an oligarchy of wealthy business owners, sports brings the common people together like nothing else on this earth. Twice Pridnestrovia made it to the semifinals of the Copa Rushmori, and once Pridnestrovia made it all the way to the final itself, only to fall in valiant defeat against the host nation of Valladares. Since then Pridnestrovia has tried, and failed) to replicate this success in the Copa, but far be it for me to suggest if this is the campaign where Pridnestrovia finally makes it big. Yes, Pridnestrovia won their first match against Mavinet, but as we have learned throughout the time that we have been participants in the Copa Rushmori, a win on the first matchday is no guarantee of further success in the next stages. But for the moment, the future looks bright for Pridnestrovia.

    PRIDNESTROVIA 1 - 0 MAVINET
DYKHOVICHNY (76')

MATCH STATISTICS
Possession
Pridnestrovia: 55%
Mavinet: 45%
Shots
Pridnestrovia: 13 (8 on target)
Mavinet: 8 (4 on target)
Corners
Pridnestrovia: 12
Mavinet: 7
Fouls
Pridnestrovia: 20
Mavinet: 11

[Nephara]

Nephara 7 - 1 KRT
(4-4-2) 1 - Mercator; 2 - Stride (18 - Rostock 54'), 22 - Lockheed, 6 - Brosch, 3 - Muscadin; 7 - Kuepper, 4 - Shone, 21 - Moxham (8 - Cromwell 63'), 11 - Deventer; 14 - Tzorvas (17 - Avetisyan 76'), 10 - Metzger
Goals: Metzger 7' 56', Kuepper 20', Tzorvas 32', Moxham 44', Cromwell 86', Avetisyan 90+2'

Extract from the Book of Thorn.

I'm still struck by what Marica said before the game.
"Let's do it for Rowena, lads. Let's do it for Marcin. 'Cause I'm still sorry, the way we had to leave 'em. But they wouldn't want us to stop. Let's fucking do this for them."
It's Marica. She isn't sentimental; at least, I didn't think she was. She's more the 'hey, everyone, I'm here to cudgel you to death with my big opinions' type. Marcin? The old captain? Thought she thought he was a weird old sentimental loser.
Rowena? She liked Rowena. Everyone liked Rowena. Big Ro. Little Ro's Rovena Stride. I'm just Roxi.
Big Ro ended her Nephara days like any green-blooded Marcher would hope; in the World Cup final, with a vindictive tackle on some flaky Republican. At least, it would've been if she hadn't been sent off. It was a dubious red, but even so. The way I heard it she spent the rest of the game in the shower. I know I didn't see her come out for half-time. And I could believe it, too, she was always... intense. Sure of herself. She approached shit like, so long as she wanted it enough, with enough fire and drive, she'd have it. And she had this gravity around her...
I'm not sure why she was never captain. Probably because she was capable of getting sent off in a World Cup final for getting payback on some Pubbie.

That night doesn't hurt so much as it should. Not me, at least. I think 'cause there's so much confidence we can go out there and win it the next time - 3-2-1, you know? Feels like fate. But it hurts once it comes to Ro and Marcin, and Valeri, I guess even Malachi, and... fuck, I don't remember everyone who left after the Cup. I thought for a while so had Konrad, but he's just quiet.

Not really struck by the game itself. I mean, we fucking murdered them.
Hesterine saw one shot on target and had it slip past her, a guy slipping away from his marker at the far post. So that made it 5-1. Lothaire got on the scoresheet on his debut to get our sixth, won back the ball, started a passing move and finished by darting in at the near post to flick home, clever way to showcase everything he's got.
It was a good sign. It was a good start, it almost literally could not have been better. And I'll take the goal, even. It wasn't my fault 'cause I wasn't on the pitch, and it lead to Nea Provost bullying Hesterine for hours the next day.
We're all a little buoyed by the result, but we're realistic. Next will be Cassadaigua. There's a proper test, and we'll see how we're recovering on the road to... well, wherever they host the next World Cup.

[Ancharmunn]

Ancharmunn football squad for Copa Rushmori 35

The 25th Copa Rushmori marks a return to international football, and indeed the wider internation sporting scene for Ancharmunn after a long absence. Even at the height of their footballing powers Ancharmunn were never much more than middling at best. Given a lack of much organised football and the largely amateur nature of sport in Ancharmunn little more should be expected than middling now. Should Ancharmunn achieve anything it'll likely be on the back of the efforts of Jaunito Bucanero, the one player in the squad of any true quality.

Team kits will take their colours from the national flag with the first kit being a predominately red affair with green trimmings. The change kit will be mostly white with red and green trimmings.

Goalkeepers

Floyd Leyland
Finn Lynch

Defenders

Lochlann Cullen – full back
Michael MacAteer – full back
Finbarr MacAteer – full back
Cuan Moloney – full back
Ronan Fallon
Darragh Considine
Jimmy O'Dowd
Darragh McLean

Midfielders

Juanito Bucanero
Constantine Tynesman
Cian Ó Maoldhomhnaigh
Cathal Ó Ríain
Eoghan Ó Faoláin
Columba O'Ryan

Forwards

Owen McNamara – winger
Wolfe Brennan – winger
Dermot McGuinness – winger
Logan Duffy – winger
Manus Quinn
Hadrian Milner

Coach
Leo Conlan

Tactics

The formation will probably most likely resemble a 4-2-3-1/4-2-1-3. However given the squad's lack of ability, players will probably drift around somewhat blindly. The one certainty should be that play will mostly centre around and the vast majority of creative inspiration coming from Juanito Bucanero.


RP permissions
Do stuff, make it fun.