AOCAF 69 :: Bowl AO :: Thread

[Tropicorp]

Scorination: standard

Group Draw: No

Summary:
1) Seeded 4/20-69 of Chaos to determine Group Allocation
2) Group Stage with more than 3 matches on approximately 3 scorination days (Double scorination as needed)
3) Knockouts that may or may not include byes depending on numbers

RP Bonus:
Simple Cumulative w/ something basic like a 2x current MD boost

Q&A

What is the "Seeded 4/20-69 of Chaos"?
The first MD will be on 4/20. It will not be the start of the Group Stage but the first of a seeded two-round series of matches to determine pots for the groups. The second match will be on 4/22 and will include an RP cutoff.
For Example, if there are 4 nations competing in the tournament, the first Round of Chaos will put these matchups: A) 1v4 B) 2v3. This is not total chaos because it is seeded based on your AO Ranking
In the second Round of Chaos, the Winner of Match A will play the Winner of Match B, while the two losers will also play each other.
From there its very simple. Any team that wins both of its 4/20-69 matches will be in Pot 1. A team that wins the first game and loses the second will be in Pot 2. A team that loses the first game and wins the second will be in pot 3 and a team that loses both games will be in pot 4.

Why?
The Random group draw can influence a teams fate even more than the Rand() in a scorinator. A new team getting a difficult draw in a 3-game group stage can be eliminated quickly without having any fun, and thats not fun. So lets have some fun first, take some of the rand() out of the group draw and put it into the hands of the teams... ICly, and let them fight for their pot on the field. Plus, it will give teams more matches and more storylines.

When will the.. second MD1 be?
The group stage proper would be projected to start no earlier than 4/27

What will the tiebreakers be?
1. Head-to-head points among tied teams
2. Head-to-head goal difference among tied teams
3. Coin Flip (Match scored using only RP bonus)

Can i Use ChatGPT or an AI image generator?
If you use ChatGPT, say you used ChatGPT. If you post something that doesn't make sense it won't be graded that well. If you can successfully get an AI image generator to create an image that is actually relevant to the tournament or your team without having a detached hand, half an ear or something else extremely wonky or annoyingly out of place then you've likely either paid for the right to use it or spent just as much time crafting that image then it would take to make something "of equal bonus potential" - so that is fine.

Will the AOCAF Champion be named an honorary successor to the Governorship of Atlantian Oceania?
Maybe

Post your rosters

AOCAF 69 :: Group Allocations

Round and round she goes, where she stops, nobody knows...

Group 1
Banija
Busoga Islands
Carpathia and Ruthenia
North Handoria
Sultanate of Oontaz
Pluvia and the Saxean Isles

Group 2
Canadian Dominion
Gyatso-Kai
Milchama
Mlima Kijani
Romsten
Squornshelan Remnant States

Group 3
Al-Tamazgha
Equestrian States
Farfadillis
Kimi-Suomi
Valanora
Vilita and Turori

Group 4
Commonwealth of Baker Park
Demot
Fort McKinley
Jabal Akhdar
Qasden
Tropicorp

Cutoffs will be around 0500 UTC the "day after" Scheduled (So 05/03 Cutoff will take place 05/04 at approx 0500 UTC)

MD1: 1v6, 2v5, 3,4 - 04.30
MD2: 6v4, 5v3, 1v2

MD3: 2v6, 3v1, 4v5 -05.03
MD4: 6v5, 1v4, 2v3

MD5: 3v6, 4v2, 5v1 - 05.05

Top 4 Advance

R16 05.07
QF 05.09
SF 05.11
FN 05.13

[Jabal Akhdar]

nice

[Valanora]

From the Offices of the VSC does the Marauder information come

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players Y (no more than one game out)
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players N
Godmod Other Events Y

What is the name of…

…the five time World Cup champions?
The Eternal Empire -or- Valanora (known prior to World Cup 37 as Elves Security Forces)

...the other nations involved in Valanora?
Sabine and Caddonia, Vyinta, and Dark Templara

…the nation in which this Commonwealth play their home matches?
Elves Security Forces (sometimes ESF in shortphrase)

…people from the Commonwealth?
Vanorians or Vanors

…the person who created this mess?
Elves Security Forces

Style Modifier: +2

Kits

Home Away

Manager
Dan Eastwood
Age: 66
This man from Eura seems to be following in the footsteps of Didrik Gjedrem, first taking the post of Raynor City United when he departed for the Marauders and now taking that post when he has stepped away from that position as well. At United he improved upon a solid foundation that Didrik had established and saw greater success as a result. The VSC is likely hoping that he will be able to replicate that with the national team, although there is a small fear that he may come to deviate from the traditional Vanorian formation. What is known is he can manage egos quite well and has a history of success wherever he goes, with being perhaps the greatest United manager in their long history. Having started his tenure with an AOCAF Cup victory has erased all doubts about his appointment and fans are now excited to see if he can be the one to help the team finally chase down that elusive sixth World Cup title.

Assistant Manager
Kasper Volheim
Age: 47
After a successful trial run with the recently reinstated U21 national team, Volheim was appointed the assistant manager for the senior team as well with the number of youth players that are in the team and pool at large. Having shown to have the capabilities of managing them at Raynor City United's youth team and being a good go between as an assistant in the Di Bradini Cup, Volheim looks to keep up the success rate at the senior level, helping lead the team to end its trophy drought in the regional championship.

Keepers
GK: Ulrik Johnsen, age 26, Hondo FC
GK: Günter Obermaier, age 30, Ulsa
GK: Ezio Castillo, age 31, Club Atlético Bexar

Defenders
R/CB: Matthias Freitag, age 24, Raynor City United
RB: Laura Adler, age 23, Mazinaw Vanorian (F)
CB: Louise Løvoll, age 26, Mar Sara FC (F)
CB: Franziska Maurer, age 23, Duke of the North (F)
CB: Samira Lindström, age 25, Raynor City United (F)
CB: Angelika Baumgartner, age 27, SC Rinaldi (F)
LB: Fredrik Nystuen, age 26, Eivora Athletic FC
L/CB: Ismail Blom, age 23, Tanrısal

Midfielders
LW: Daniella Åström, age 28, Hondo FC (F)
LW: Julia Holt, age 26, Ulsa (F)
D/MC: Maximilian Edvardsen, age 26, Port Tacassam FC
MC: Liam Sæthre, age 26, Mâ Âlâmëómë
MC: Olof Lindberg, age 28, Hondo FC
MC: Selim Estrada Barrientos, age 27, Raynor City United
MC: Josefine Rygh, age 26, Mar Sara FC (F)
A/MC: Kensel Méndez, age 26, FC Capri
AMC/ST: Laborious Hawk, age 758, Myana
RW: Lars Haukås, age 28, Char Sara FC
RW: Joacim Lind, age 28, Soldarian FC

Forwards
ST/LW: Lothas Ludwig, age 30, Crisisbless
ST: Jutta Palminger, age 29, FC Capri (F)
ST: Taina Vääräniemi, age 28, Dí Maozöxê (F)
ST: Hadi Lundström, age 28, Raynor City United (F)

Formation


Captain: Laborious Hawk
Set Piece Taker: Laborious Hawk
Penalty Taker: Lothas Ludwig
Right Corner: Daniella Åström
Left Corner: Daniella Åström

[Pluvia and the Saxean Isles]

Pluvia and the Saxean Isles AOCAF 69 Roster

Nickname: Magpies
Formation: 3-4-1-2
Style: +2.5
Manager: Laurent Chambéry, Savigliane

The Magpies' uniform is a traditional black and white striped kit with white shorts. However, they may be seen on occasion sporting the national colors of blue and gold with white shorts. Starters are listed first in their respective categories.

Goalkeepers
GK #1 Felix Birnbaum, 28, Victoria Alenard
GK #12 Fabian Stoltenburg, 25, Marienburg City
GK #23 Aaron Seidel, 24, Invictus 1889

Defenders
CB #4 Sam Goldwasser, 28, Invictus 1889
CB #2 Manuel Schuettler, 32, Marienburg City
CB #14 Jordan Wallace, 29, SC Roslina
CB #3 Xander Fox, 24, RSC Marienburg
CB #15 Harald Bruckmann, 25, Victoria Alenard
CB #13 Alistair Bradley, 33, Racing Club Alenard
CB #16 Toby Robertson, 27, Port Marian FC

Midfielders
LM #6 Finlay Muir, 29, Marienburg City
CM #8 Marius Bohlen, 29, Victoria Alenard
CM #5 Owen Duffy, 27, Claesey Athletic
RM #10 Paul Strickler, 32, SC Roslina
CAM #9 Michael Schuster, 29, Port Marian FC
LM #17 Thomas Tischler, 24, RSC Marienburg
CM #19 Peter Phillips, 25, Invictus 1889
MF #18 Ashton Lamb, 24, Marienburg City
MF #20 Brodie McGuire, 31, Claesey Athletic

Forwards
LW #11 Flynn MacKay, 30, Racing Club Alenard
RW #7 Kieran Young, 24, RSC Marienburg
FW #21 Benjamin Kruger, 27, Invictus 1889
FW #22 Andrew Sinclair, 25, Marienburg City

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
    =================================
    Choose My Goalscorers: Yes
    Godmod Goalscoring Events: No
    Injure Players: Small things, every two of my players you injure, one of yours must be injured
    Godmod Injury Events: No
    Red Card Players: Yes, one for one on each team
    Yellow Card Players: Yes, two on my team for one on your team
    Godmod Other Events: No
    =================================

[Banija]

Banija National Team- The Kadongo Kamu

Information
Country code: BNJ
Denonym: Banijan(s)
Association: Royal Banijan Soccer Association(RBSA)
Nickname: The Kadongo Kamu
Manager: Pamela Scott, 56 years old, native of the Commonwealth of Baker Park. Head Women's Coach at Northern Baker Park State University UAC National Championships in back to back seasons Manager of the Westwood Sprites Ladies, led the club to 2 Women's National League titles in her 3 seasons. Women's National Team Manager, later BPNT Manager beginning in WC83 cycle. BOF runner-up/AOCAF 58 3rd Place. Farfadills NT Manager cycles 85-88. Took the job after Banija failed to qualify for World Cup 89.
Senior Assistant Manager: Todd Malembe. 40 years old, Banijan native. Former Assistant manager with Capitol City FC.
Captain: Sarafina Ikpeazu
Alternate Captain: Tairu Conateh
Home Kits: Green
Away Kits: White
Alternate: Orange

RP Permissions
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod scoring events: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes
RP Injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss. No deaths without my permission)
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss. No deaths without my permission)
Godmod other events: Yes(However, there is a hard ban on any Banijan nationals, player or fans or whoever, from catching a pandemic)
Style modifier: +3.5

Brief National Team History
The Kadongo Kamu have played in exactly 702 games, as of the end of the 93rd World Cup Final. This is the beginning of the 21st World Cup cycle overall. We have entered in 18 previous World Cup Qualification campaigns(WCQ73, WCQ74, WCQ75, WCQ76, WCQ77, WCQ79, WCQ80, WCQ82, WCQ84, WCQ85, WCQ86, WCQ87, WCQ88, WCQ89, WCQ90, WCQ91, WCQ92, WCQ93), and have successfully qualified for 13 out of the last 14 World Cups, famously missing World Cup 89 while we were ranked 5th in the world. We have also participated in Baptism of Fire 60, and been a participant in four different Cup of Harmonies(CoH 66, CoH 67, CoH 71, and CoH 81). In four Cups of Harmony, Banija has only once moved past the group stage, in CoH 81, and they promptly fell on penalties in the Round of 16. In their lone Baptism of Fire, they earned a lone point.

After not competing at all during the World Cup 78 Cycle due to the RBSA's bankruptcy, they re-entered the world of international football in World Cup 79 cycle. A shocking World Cup 79 Qualification campaign saw them on the brink of qualifying, but the team simply ran out of gas and lost 4 of their final 5 matches to not make it to Ceni/Drawkland. Since then, the U21 team got 3rd place at the 42nd Di Bradini Cup, and the national team advanced to the quarterfinals of AOCAF LV, AOCAF LVI, and AOCAF LVII, establishing themselves as a strong regional side, falling to the eventual champs in the latter two tournaments. They stunningly qualified for World Cup 80, after starting poorly by losing 5 of their first 9, to going unbeaten in the second half of qualifying, where they won 7 of those games. In the World Cup 80 Qualification playoffs, a 3-0 first leg victory in Montreal, Royal Kingdom of Quebec, powered the team through to their first ever appearance in the World Cup Finals, advancing to sport's pre-eminent competition 5-3 on aggregate over Mercedini. While a pair of one goal losses saw them eliminated after two games, they earned their first ever victory at the World Cup Finals in a 2-0 win over New Gazi in their final group stage game. As they hosted World Cup 81, they went directly to the tournament, and went to their first ever knockout stages, winning Group A before falling, 1-1(2-1 AET) to Turori in the Round of 16. They cruised to qualification in World Cup 82, maintaining a top two spot in their World Cup Qualification group behind Brenecia for the entirety of the World Cup 82 Qualification campaign, getting to the tournament with relative ease before bowing out in the group stages.

The World Cup 83 cycle was their strongest yet. Starting with AOCAF LVIII on home soil, co-hosted with the Commonwealth of Baker Park, the Kadongo Kamu won 6 consecutive matches to open the tournament, taking their winning streak all the way to the final. Unfortunately, they were felled, 4-2, at home to their archrivals, the Equestrian States. Co-hosting World Cup 83 as well, the Banijans made a miraclous run at the World Cup, upending 5th ranked South Covelllo on penalties, and defeating the then two-time defending world champions Vilita in the quarterfinals, before falling, 3-2, at the national stadium to Starblaydia. They added to the trophy case, however, earning a bronze medal after defeating Cassadaigua in the 3rd place playoff game.

The World Cup 84 cycle, the first with real title expectations for the Banijans, was a disappointment in the regionals, as we fell 1-0 to Ko-oren in the AOCAF Round of 16, although we advanced to the quarterfinals of World Cup 84 before dropping to Eura in extra time. The World Cup 85 cycle seems to be a promise of hope for the Banijans. Although AOCAF LX was a rough tournament for the Banijans, it was surrounded by two excellent tournament performances for the Banijans. We won the U21 World Cup(DBC 47), and are just coming off earning our first ever senior-level trophy, by winning the 8th Eagle's Cup to be admitted as a full, permanent member of the Eagle's Club right before the beginning of World Cup Qualifying. Following that, the Banijans dominated World Cup 85 Qualifying, going wire-to-wire as the first place team in their World Cup Qualifying group, as well as earning more points in World Cup Qualifying(67) than any other team did throughout the entire campaign. Those strong performances both in the Eagle's Cup and World Cup Qualifying have caused fans to put an up and down AOCAF behind them, and heighten the standard for World Cup 85. While they escaped the group stages with four points, strong wins over Vilita and Zwangzug in the knockouts put them on course for a medal, as they eventually beat allies Baker Park in the bronze medal match, after falling 3-2 to the eventual champions Free Republics in the semifinal.

After a return to the AOCAF LXI Quarterfinals, their first quarterfinal appearance in the last 3 editions of the regional championships, they fell to Chromatika on penalties. The World Cup 86 Qualification campaign went rather swimmingly- the national team went a perfect 18-0-0 in World Cup Qualifying, the first time that had happened in well over 10 cycles. The multiverse's #1 ranked squad was brimming with confidence, the two-time bronze medalists entering World Cup 86 trying to win the biggest trophy in all of sports for the first time.

Marcus Waters has always preached the following- "you've got to win at home before you can win the World Cup." It's always meant you've got to win in Atlantian Oceania before you can expect to win the World Cup. And while we've never won the AOCAFs, our group was all Atlantian Oceania sides- Ko-oren, Chromatika, and Mriin. We finished in first place with a 1-0 win over Ko-oren, a 2-2 draw against Chromatika, and a 0-0 draw against Mriin being enough to earn 5 points. Then, we faced a gauntlet of former World champions. A 1-0 win over them put us in our fourth consecutive World Cup Quarterfinal, against 5 time World champions Valanora. A thrilling 4-3 win put us in the semifinal, again facing a GSW rival- World Cup 84 winners Farfadillis. In one of the wildest World Cup semifinals ever played, Banija came out on top 7-6, with a stoppage time winner to put them in the Final against the World Cup 85 winners Nephara. It was a true game of the century- neither team had lost a competitive match since the start of World Cup Qualifying, neither losing during Qualifying or the Finals. And in that thriller, it would be the Banijans who would win, taking a lead and holding onto it, winning by 3 goals to 2 against Nephara to lift the trophy and declare themselves World Cup Champions.

The ensuing AOCAF was strong, but not as strong as they wanted it to be. After starting slowly and losing their opening two games, they finished well done the stretch of group play, and even won a pair of knockout stage games before eventually falling to the champions, Baker Park, in the Semifinals. The Banijans redeemed themselves by earning a bronze medal against Sarzonia. The team took a B squad to Eagle's Cup IX, but a strong performance there landed them a silver medal, losing in the final to Valanora. World Cup 87 did not go the way they expected, getting eliminated in the group stages for the first time since World Cup 82. But we recovered in the World Cup 88 cycle. While a quarterfinal elimination at both Eagle's Cup X and AOCAF LXIII were not great, we were unbeaten in World Cup 88 Qualifying, and reached the World Cup 88 Semifinals, eliminating the defending champions Nephara and falling to the eventual champions Turori along the way. We used that momentum of the semfiinal run to finally earn a regional title, as on our 10th try, we finally won the AOCAFs, defeating Hapilopper in the semifinals and Valanora in the Final, winning both matches via penalty kick shootouts.

That regional title meant little in World Cup Qualifying, however, as Pemecutan and Zwangzug both pipped past Banija to automatically qualify for the World Cup, and left Banija in the dust, gasping for air. That called for a reset from the RSBA, which led to Marcus Waters resigning and Pam Scott be hired. While neither the Cup of Harmony nor the AOCAFs went particularly well, Pam Scott's laser focus on qualifying for the World Cup was a success, as the team not only went to World Cup 90, but showed up in style, winning a pair of penalty shootouts, before falling to the eventual winners, The Holy Empire, on PKs, in the semifinals. They still beat Valanora in the third place match, 2-1, to earn their third overall bronze medal. To reset things for World Cup 91, Banija easily won our qualification group, but flopped on our face in the Finals- losing our last two group stage matches after opening the tournament with 3 points, and promptly falling out at the group stages.

Pam Scott changed the mood entirely following, however, as the Banijans surprised many by winning AOCAF 67, including eliminating tournament favorites, Valanora, on home soil. The team built on that, in what was one of their best cycles ever- after going unbeaten in Qualifying (17 wins and 3 draws, with no losses), they went to the World Cup with confidence. After winning their group with ease, 7 points, they made it all the way to their Second ever World Cup Final, at World Cup 92. Wins over Squidroidia and world number ones Turori followed in the knockout stages, followed by a PK shootout victory over Valanora. But in the World Cup 92 Final, they fell at the final hurdle, as Zwangzug lifted the sport's ultimate trophy. While they could not retain their regional title, losing to the host nations, Valanora, in the AOCAF 68 Final, the lessons learned were paramount. They reached the World Cup and turned on another gear, earning their second ever World Cup title after defeating Chromatika, 4-3, in the World Cup 93 Final.

The team is performing at its best ever level, having reached the finals of both the last two AOCAFs and the last two World Cups, winning one of each. They look to continue that peak form as they are clearly in the midst of 'a golden age' of Banijan soccer.

Statistics(All up to date as of right before the start of AOCAF 69, friendlies included. Banijan statisticians count OT and PK shootout wins and losses as wins and losses, as opposed to draws like most international statisticians):
All-Time Record: 417-178-107(W-L-D)
All-Time Winning Percentage: 59.40% (Wins over total games played)
All-Time Points Percentage: 64.48% (Wins plus 1/3rd of draws over total games played)
Current WCC Rank: #2
Current AOCAF Rank: #2
Top 15 All-Time Leading Goal Scorers: Italicized players are retired from international duty. Bold players are active players.
1. Ilman Jawara(110 goals)
2. Gitonga Kahara(109 goals)
3. Idai Uster(89 goals)
4. Abel Wesoloski-Okafor(81 goals)
5. Kausu Dione(67 goals)
6. Sarafina Ikpeazu(66 goals)
7. Namakula Kawesa(59 goals)
8. Madu Okparra(57 goals)
9. Chibuzo Afolayan(54 goals)
10. Mzukisi Nzo(49 goals)
11. Gereh Kama(45 goals)
12. Kiggwe Mavuto(43 goals)
13. Lolong Bokate(39 goals)
14. Toyuwa Okafor(37 goals)
T15. Nwabudike Ugonna(35 goals)
T15. Assefa Yitebarke(35 goals)

World Cup Appearances: 12- World Cup 80, World Cup 81(co-hosts), World Cup 82, World Cup 83(co-hosts), World Cup 84, World Cup 85, World Cup 86, World Cup 87, World Cup 88, World Cup 90, World Cup 91, World Cup 92, World Cup 93
Times Ranked #1 in the KPB- Pre-World Cup 86 Qualifying, Pre-World Cup 86 Finals, Pre-World Cup 87 Qualifying, Pre-World Cup 87 Finals

Trophy Cabinet:
Senior-Level
Champions of World Cup 93
Champions of World Cup 86
Champions of Eagle's Cup VIII
Champions of AOCAF LXIV
Champions of AOCAF LXVII
Winner of the Inaugural Afro-Caribbean Heritage Festival
2nd Place at World Cup 92
2nd Place at AOCAF LVIII
2nd Place at AOCAF LXVIII
2nd Place at Eagle's Cup IX(Winners of the tournament's Cup of Champions)
3rd Place at World Cup 83
3rd place at World Cup 85
3rd place at World Cup 90
3rd Place at AOCAF LXII
3rd place at the United Valhaven Regional Football Championships
3rd Place at the Second Afro-Carribean Heritage Festival

Youth Level
Champions of the 8th Sporting World Cup
Champions of the 47th Di Bradini Cup
3rd place at 42nd Di Bradini Cup
3rd place at the 17th RTC U18 World Cup

World Cup Hall of Famers
Adama Sowe(former RBSA Chairman, current WCC Vice President)
GItonga Kahara(all-time leading goalscorer, World Cup winning captain, all-time cap leader)
Marcus Waters(Banija's winningest manager, has led Banija to 100% of our World Cup Qualifications, and has never failed to qualify for the Finals)
Namakula Kawesa(first female star, 3rd all-time leading goalscorer at time of retirement)
Kuma Bultum(Champions League Winner, World Cup winner, most appearances on the Galacticos list for a Banijan)

List of National Team managers
1. Kizza Kabila(Banija). Manager for Baptism of Fire 60 and the World Cup 73 Qualification Campaign. Overall record of 0-14-1(W-L-D).

Kizza Kabila is the only Banijan to have ever managed the national team. Hired for Banija's first foray onto the international scene in this sport, his reign was universally derided as a disaster. Managing 15 games, he drew his first game in the Baptism of Fire, and not only lost the next two, he then lost ever single match in the 12 game World Cup Qualification campaign for World Cup 73, with the side only scoring 5 goals across the entire campaign. Unceremoniously fired after becoming one of few managers to go through an entire World Cup Qualification campaign without earning a single point, he, alongside the entire board of the RBSA, resigned after the last game. He was disgraced in the sport after the campaign, and, to this point, has never returned to top-level soccer.

2.Jan Cassallerus(San Llera): Hired before the start of the World Cup 74 Qualification Campaign, managed through the World Cup 77 Qualification Campaign. Overall Record of 27-32-16(W-L-D).

Banija put its eyes abroad, searching for a foreign manager before the World Cup 74 Qualification campaign, and found Jan Cassallerus. He is Banija's longest ever serving manager, being at the helm for four entire World Cup cycles, and being at the helm for 75 total games, a kind of longevity unheard of in the modern game, especially managing the national team. He started winning a game at the Coupe D'Esquarium, in what was known as the group of death. He was largely celebrated for bringing the team into relevancy. The expectations were through the floor, following Kizza Kabila, but he brought the team to Cup of Harmony 66 and Cup of Harmony 67, as well as advancing in Olympic Qualifying and getting third place at the United Valhaven Regional Football Championships. He was forced into retirement after the World Cup 77 Qualification campaign, when the RBSA declared bankruptcy, and could not participate in the World Cup 78 Qualification Campaign due to their inability to compensate players and staff.

3. Randolf Cherry(Drawkland): Hired before the start of the World Cup 79 Qualification Campaign. Overall Record of 20-24-2(W-L-D)

Randolf Cherry, after the RBSA got its act together, was hired- controversially- as the manager of the national team. Not that his own hire was controversial, it was applauded across the sports spectrum here at home. He was given a 3 cycle contract, and everyone knew what the goal was- to make the World Cup Finals at least once over the course of the contract. They understood that it would take time to climb the rankings, and they were willing to give him the leash. However, he came in a very awkward situation. Adama Sowe, the Chairman of the RBSA, allegedly first offered the job to Sarah Owens, out of the Equestrian States. Of course, it is illegal in Banija for women to coach men's professional teams, and that caused controversy. And yet, here he was- the manager of the national team.

His own home country of Drawkland is, of course, very progressive in that area, where the sport is dominated by the ladies. Regardless, he had an excellent start to his reign as a manger, and was initially extremely popular. He won his first game, in a special Eagles Club match, against Aggrey-Fynn Land. He lost his first few qualifiers, but he went on a dear through the middle of qualifying, which included a 7 game winning streak on home soil. Big wins against then 4th ranked Chromatika at home and then 32nd ranked Eshan, put them in the conversation of World Cup Qualification, though they were simply not strong enough.

The Cup of Harmony was considered a disaster, finishing in dead last in their group. The competition maybe simply isn't for the Banijans, eh? But they were strong throughout the offseason, making a surprising quarterfinal run in AOCAF LV and bringing high hopes to the squad going into World Cup 80 Qualification. Hopes were through the roof for the national team, maybe even bordering unrealistic. They struggled, and the campaign got worse as the pressure built, as the squad lost their final four qualifiers of the first half of qualifying. With the campaign seemingly in free-fall, he was fired, as the RBSA said they wanted time to conduct "an open, thorough, search."

4. Marcus Waters(Equestrian States): Hired after the 1st half of World Cup 80 Qualifying, fired at the end of World Cup 89 Qualifying. Overall record of 257-81-50(W-L-D). All-time winning percentage of 66.24%. All-time points percentage of 70.53%.

Marcus Waters was the national team's assistant manager with Randolf Cherry above him, and the manager of the youth national teams. He first gained notoriety in Banija after successfully leading the U21 team to a 3rd place finish at the 42nd Di Bradini Cup. With his abilities clear, it made sense to move onto him as the interim manager as they searched for a permanent manager ahead of the second half of World Cup Qualifying. However, he was able to complete a stunning turnaround of this team. His first game in charge, he changed nearly the entire backline, and had a massive upset, away to Qasden, by a score of 3-2. A 3-0 victory over Razenthuria in the other mid-qualifying friendly got high hopes for him.

Marcus Waters went out with an intent to keep his team focused, despite everything going on at home. He has proven adept at navigating the political minefield that is this job, especially with his own country of origin essentially at war with Banija. He didn't lose a single game in the second half of qualifying, winning 7 games to get to the playoffs, including when the team was forced to play home games in Montreal due to ongoing violence within Banija. He was widely applauded for getting the team ready to play in Montreal, and winning 1-0 against Turori, the group's top seeded squad, and a 3-0 win in Montreal in the Qualification playoffs. While the RBSA interviewed four other candidates, his successful push through the World Cup Qualification playoffs and into Banija's first-ever World Cup Finals essentially clinched the job for him, as he put pen to paper to take the interim tag off of his title ahead of the 80th World Cup Finals.

Since then, of course, he has done a lot to garner the confidence of the higher-ups, and of the fans. Falling to the eventual champions in the quarterfinals of both AOCAF LVI and AOCAF LVII was widely seen as a positive. As well as, of course, a surprising Fourth Place finish in the Cup of Champions Six, highlighted by a surprising point earned in their matchup against Nephara, while also pushing through to the Round of 16 of World Cup 81, pleasing the home fans. A different sort of pressure faces him this campaign, however.

For the first time in his reign, you could say that Banija had a disappointing tournament, failing to advance in World Cup 82 beyond the group stages. It might be harsh to say that- on paper, advancing from a group with both Pasarga and Farfadillis is a tall order if your team is not Pasarga or Farfadillis. They responded well, however, winning six consecutive games at AOCAF LVIII, and knocking off major nations including Cosumar and Mriin at the tournament, before being felled in the final, in their own capitol of Busukuma, to Equestria. Following up with a World Cup on home soil, they continued that momentum forward from AOCAF LVIII, as the Banijans took on the role of giantslayers on home soil. They beat the 5th ranked South Covello side, and the then two-time defending world champions Vilita, before eventually falling to Starblaydia in the semifinals, though they still earned a bronze medal. Although momentum was blunted after a tough 1-0 defeat to Ko-oren that secured an early exit from AOCAF LIX, they followed that up with their second straight appearance in the World Cup Quarterfinals, where they fell to Eura in extra time.

The last two cycles he really got the team to rise above themselves. The last two World Cup Qualification cycles, Banija has finished as the best team in World Cup Qualifying by points earned. And he has the silverware to match- a bronze medal earned in World Cup 85, followed by a gold medal in World Cup 86. Having risen from basically nowhere in Equestria to household name status in Banija, he has truly made a name for himself as one of the world's premier international managers. While World Cup 87 was disappointing, he quickly ensured that was a one-off, rather than a sign of things to come. He brought Banija to their fourth World Cup semifinal in their past six tournaments at World Cup 88, and followed that up with winning the country's first ever regional title.

But he is now a victim of his own success. An Eagle's Cup champion, the AO champion, and a World Cup champion, he drastically raised the bar for the Kadongo Kamu. But Banija winning 9 of their last 10 Qualifiers could not overcome their disastrous, and therefore, we did not qualify for the World Cup Finals. The RBSA had no other choice but to let the legend and Hall of Famer walk, as the time has come around for the national team to change their head man for the first time since World Cup 80.

5. Pamela Scott(Commonwealth of Baker Park): Hired after World Cup 89 Qualifying, right before Cup of Harmony 81. Overall Record of 113-27-38(W-L-D). Winning percentage: 63.48%. Points percentage: 70.60%

Scott is widely regarded as one of the brightest tactical minds in the sport, and her record speaks for itself. Replaced Trevor Richmond as BP National Team Manager after the side qualified for the WC in their first three attemps, then followed Ichi Tuzzio as boss of the WC 85 Champions, overhauling the roster and bringing a bit of defensive awareness to the legendary Farf attacking style. Has an eye for young talent and not afraid to give them a chance. The above is why she was hired- leverage her experience to bring stabilization to a national team that is currently reeling.

While the Cup of Harmony and the AOCAFs both resulted in disappointing exits at the Round of 16, and the Eagle's Cup went disastrously(not scoring for 5 consecutive matches), Pam Scott is still upbeat about the direction of the national team. "With this cycle, everything is about World Cup Qualification." She told reporters. "Those tournaments, while they did not go well, were about finding the right squad, building to this moment. Banija wants to compete on all fronts, of course- but we cannot do that if we are not qualifying for the World Cup. These tournaments, while not great on the field, have allowed me to experiment all sorts of lineups, and expose different players to elite competition at the international stage. How they deal with things like pressure. You're going to see much different results when the team takes the field for World Cup 90 Qualifying."

But her first World Cup in charge was an unmitigated success. Beating both Audioslavia and Eura was a stunner, as Banija won the group of death with a game to go. Not resting on their laurels, they downed two AO rivals, SRS and Baker Park, in back-to-back games in route to the semifinals, and eventually, a bronze medal. With that success, Pam Scott declared that the national team is "back to competing on all fronts". While the last World Cup's group stage embarassment was a disappointment, she more than made up for it by bringing home her first major international trophy- the AOCAFs.

Last cycle, after reaching the AOCAF Final and falling to Valanora, she was able to take the lessons learned from that and bring Banija to our second ever World Cup title- and her first. She's now, after a long journey from Baker Park, to Farfadillis, and now Banija, has reached the sports pinnacle. Ambitious as always, she's now trying to build on that and earn a second World Cup title.

1. The Equestrian States. All time Banijan record against opponent- 1-7-2(W-L-T).

The Equestrian States are easily Banija's biggest rival, and by a country mile. It has all the makings of a good international sporting rivalry- plenty of matches played, history of competitive matches, geopolitical rivalry, player familiarity, and, of course, geographical proximity- all those boxes are checked. They've played each other 5 times, and Banija has come out on the losing end each and every time, most recently a 4-0 clobbering at the hands of the Equestrian States during Banija's final friendly before this qualification tournament began.

Three times have they played in competitive competition, and three times Banija has fallen. The Equestrian States eliminated Banija from Cup of Harmony 71 in group play, while also defeating the Banijans in both the opening match of World Cup 80, and the final group stage match of AOCAF LVI, though the Banijans still advanced to the quarterfinals of that tournament. The familiarity of players between each other is strong. Banija's present and most successfull all-time manager, Marcus Waters, is Equestrian. A number of players in each country play in leagues in the other. Famous Equestrian NT players like Aaron Aiza, Rosie Tyler, and Josef Lawrenz, ply their trade in the Banijan Soccer League, with Aiza particularly growing to superstar status while winning league titles at Herzegovina City FC.

Banija's first ever major final in this sport, at the senior level, was against none other than Equestria at the national stadium, with the winner to be crowned champions of AOCAF LVIII Final. In front of a decidedly pro-Banijan crowd, it was the Equestrians who dashed Banijan dreams of glory on their home turf as they picked up their first ever major international silverware, with a 4-2 victory. That victory has made the Banijans just that much hungrier to defeat their bitter rivals, and though the history is lopsided in favor of Equestria, that has just fueled the fire on this side of the matchup. The two sides co-hosted World Cup 83 together, and almost had a rematch of their AOCAF LVIII Final in the World Cup Final, though Banija could not fulfill its end of the bargain as they fell to a stronger Starblaydia side in the semifinals. Equestria, of course went on to win the World Cup, and the next AOCAF to boot, establish a fully fledged dynasty. The Banijans, in pre WOrld Cup 84 Qualification friendlies, got their first ever result against the Equestrians, a 0-0 draw in Everfree.

Equestria and Banija were in the same group at AOCAF LXII, with the opening match of the tournament being a repeat of the AOCAF LVIII Final. Banija, we thought, rising high and champions. But Equestria came to rain on the parade. They won on Matchday 1, by a score of 2-1 in Busukuma, and we could only manage a return draw. Our fiercest rivals, and yet, we've still never managed to have beaten them, in a competitive or a friendly match. That search for the elusive win against Equestria continues.

Banija landed their first ever win over Equestria in the Round of 16 at AOCAF LXVI. Years of angst were excised by this national team, as [url=https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?p=39501593#p39501593they crushed the Equestrians, 3-0[/url], in a match that may have finally begun to turn this rivalry towards team Banija. With the two teams paired in this cycle here at World Cup Qualifying, Banija will look to ensure that beating their rival was not a fluke- but turn that into a habit.

2. Farfadillis. All time Banijan record against opponent- 2-5-0(W-L-T)

What makes a good international rivalry? You need a mixture of history and luck. Luck, to have played in plenty of high stakes matches against each other on the biggest stages- World Cups, AOCAFs, and the like. But you also need nearness. What makes these two know each other so well? We've played in twice as many competitive matches against Chromatika as we have against Farfadillis.

Well, let's go with the political intrigue. Of course, there's geography- Farfadillis is the closest nation to Banija that does not share a land border with Banija. Their former capitol, is on the northern tip of their island, which is just south of Busukuma, the Banijan capitol city. So of course, there's that familiarity. And when the Farfadillis national government fell apart and they fell into some sort of a controlled chaos, many refugees fled Farfadillis for the stability of Banija. Busukuma became the natural landing place. There are no official numbers, but there an estimated 100,000 or so Farf refugees across the country, but with over half of them, around 60,000, residing in Busukuma.

So there's that familiarity on an intimate level, especially in Banija, and especially in Banija's capitol. Especially in the capitol, it's always a huge deal when these two meet. And besides that? Well, of course, we [url=https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?p=37273196#p37273196]dropped a few nuclear warheads[/url] on Farfadillis, where Banija's nuclear weapons got both hacked and stolen by operatives. While, surprisingly, it didn't cause as much damage as one would expect, 5 nuclear weapons are still quite a bit to get hit by. Farf citizens weren't exactly appreciative, and that is fresh in everybody's mind.

Lastly, look at the integration of our footballing systems. We have a combined league. With the combination of our top flights in the Shango-Fogoa Premier League, Banijan footballing fans and Farf footballing fans interact every single week. Sometimes peacefully, sometimes violently, always loud and passionately. For two seperate nations(plus Busoga), they have a very integrated league system. And that, of course, will mean that the rivalry is played out every week. Banijan teams v. Farf teams. Farf teams got the better of their Banijan opponents, by and large, throughout the inaugural season, but there is still plenty left to say on the subject.

This is Banija's clear #2 rival, ahead of anybody else, besides Equestria. And as the S-FPL continues, this rivalry will continue to be competitive for years to come. Not to mention, the two have played a pair of thrilling World Cup Finals matches against each other- Farfadillis being victorious in World Cup 81, and then being victorious again in World Cup 84, where they went on to win that World Cup. What'd be more fun than another Finals matchup between these two juggernauts, right?

3. Chromatika. All time Banijan record against opponent- 8-3-2(W-L-T)

This is, admittedly, not the first nation you think of when you think of Banija's rivals. But There is a long-time history between these two nations. These two have more shared history than Banija and any other opponent, at least in competitive matches. Banija and Chromatika have faced off a grand total of 9 times competitively- all in the modern era of Banijan soccer, which is WCQ79-present. It was that first campaign back, after the RBSA bankruptcy, where it was established.

Banija had one of their biggest ever all-time wins in that Qualifying campaign, our first ever win over a top 5 opponent, when we beat then #4 Chromatika 2-1 in Jinja City. It's a night that has gone down in Banijan history. Looking back, many see it as Banija's first true launch towards where we are now- from a consistent middle of the pack nation in Qualifying, who couldn't do anything in the Cup of Harmony, to demanding a seat at the table by being an elite squad.

And we've played plenty of times since, as well. AOCAF LXI- we beat them in the group stages, only to fall to them in the Quarterfinals, on penalty kicks. We each got clean sheet victories over the other team at Eagle's Cup VIII, a tournament that we ended up winning. And we played them twice in World Cup Qualifying for 86, beating them twice en route to a perfect 18-0-0 Qualifying record. We played them again at the Finals, and we battled out a 2-2 draw.

They're a tough opponent, and considering the frequency of our matches in recent years, meeting up in the Finals would not be that unexpected. We know each other well, have played with plenty of stakes on the line. And, of course, there's those cultural and political connections that make the greatest international rivalries- a Banijan delegation, led by present Banijan Ambassador to Chromatika and former Banijan Minister of Justice, Xolile Lubabalo, helped shepherd Chromatika's transition to democracy. It's friendly, but there's plenty of history to make it interesting.

Of course, to make things even more interesting, these two met on the grandest stage of them all- the World Cup 93 Final. While Banija triumphed in a close-fought match (and a stunning come from behind second half victory), it has really moved Chromatika probably close to the top of Banija's rivals list, especially with S&T no longer participating in these tournaments and the Equestrian States no longer reaching the high levels they once had in the past.

Honorable Mentions
Nations mentioned here are considered key rivals, but there is not enough competitive match history to really define it as a rivalry. Nations are not listed in order.
- Siovanija & Teusland(Geographic proximity, cultural + political ties)
- Valanora(geographic proximity, recent KO stage battles at the AOCAFs and the WC)
- Royal Kingdom of Quebec(general history and close political/cultural ties- Banija is a former colony of Quebec and they have been close ever since)
- Sarzonia(General sporting rivalry, history with 3 AOCAF matches against each other, 2 World Cup Qualifying matches, and a World Cup Finals match)
- Baker Park(cultural plus political ties)

Jerseys
Full credit to Filindostan for the design and production of these jersies. Thank you very much!

AOCAF 69

Starters: 4-2-1-3.
Players who are based in a foreign league are bolded.
Players who have never participated in World Cup Qualifying before are italicized.
BSL = Banijan Soccer League, Banija's second tier. National league. S-FPL is the joint first tier soccer league for Farfadillis, Banija, and the Busoga Islands.
GK #23 Hebron Rao. Age 32. Plays for Jinja City FC in the S-FPL. Female.
LB #44 Opio Ssambwa. Age 22. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
LCB #4 Bbale Luboobi. Age 25. Plays for Istria City FC in the S-FPL. First-time as a regular starter for the NT.
RCB #3 Adin Wasawo. Age 28. Plays for Spartangrad in Eura.
RB #2 Festus Hera. Age 29. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL. First-time as a regular starter for the NT.
CM #25 Oguta Achuka. Age 29. Plays for Istria City FC in the S-FPL.
CM #8 Aquila Hongo. Age 26. Plays for Katashi Azula in Ko-oren.
CAM #10 Sergius Atieno. Age 28. Plays for Schemerdrecht SVV in Ko-oren. First-time as a regular starter for the NT.
LW #11 Lolong Bokate. Age 29. Plays for Dí Maozöxê(Farfadillis) in the S-FPL.
ST #9 Abel Wesoloski-Okafor. Age 28. Male. Plays for Tanrısal in Pasarga.
RW #7 Sarafina Ikpeazu. Age 34. Plays for Sabrefell Athletic in the Nepharim Premiership. Female. Captain.
Bench:
GK #35 Hebron Yiena. Age 30. Plays for Busukuma AC in the S-FPL. Female.
GK #39 Salathiel Kavuuma. Age 19. Plays for the Busukuma Force in the S-FPL.
LB #20 Sohna Kolley. Age 30. Female. Plays for Istria City FC in the S-FPL.
CB #30 Kutaaka Muteesa. Age 22. Plays for Montreal City in the Q-League.
CB #5 Opio Bikya. Age 24. Plays for Jinja City FC in the S-FPL.
RB #15 Adroa Kiryamunyolo. Age 21. Plays for Jinja City FC in the S-FPL.
CM #6 Wassa Kah. Age 31. Plays for Algolia in the Squornshelan Remnant States.
CM #14 Tijan Sowe. Age 32. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
CAM #15 Zion Izuchukwu. Age 29. Plays for Mynda Electra in the S-FPL.
RM/RW #21 Dembo Savaneh. Age 28. Plays for Istria City FC in the S-FPL.
LW/LM #22 Odongo Kagenda. Age 21. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL. Made his international debut at the Mihaly Invitational.
ST #12 Eli Aero. 27 years old. Plays for Mynda Electra in the S-FPL. Not really as good as Banijan strikers of the past, but with the severe lack of depth at the #9 in Banija behind Wesoloski-Okafor(although some young teenagers impressing throughout the pyramid), Aero is the 'last man standing' to get this role.

Notes:
- Our free kicks are taken by Sarafina Ikpeazu. Our corner kicks are taken by the winger on whatever side the corner kick is on.
- Our penalty kicks are taken by Abel Wesoloski-Okafor.

Players who retired from international duty after World Cup 93
CB Demba Kouyaté. 35 years old. Starter.
RB Tairu Conateh. Age 36. Starter.
CAM Gereh Kama. Age 34. Starter.
CM Momodou Jassey. Age 35. Bench.
GK Burama Kinteh. Age 32. Bench. Third Choice Keeper.

Select Player Bios

1. ST Abel Wesoloski-Okafor

The dual-national superstar. Being born in, and growing up in, Quebec & Shingoyreo, he was expected to try and play for their NT- even though he was eligible for Banija through a birth parent. But with the striker position clogged up in Quebec, he moved to Banija to play, and got an opportunity to shine at the club level as a teenager here. He moved to the S-FPL, for a lower level team, and then moved his way into the national team. While he's now plying his trade in Pasarga, he's seized his opportunity, quickly working his way to the starting XI, and he got the #9 jersey at the age of 24- Banija's star player at the position, benefitting by the stunning lack of depth at the position behind him.

He is, far and away, the country's best striker- and has been the only truly NT worthy striker for this country for quite some time. While certainly a hard decision to choose to play for his country of origin rather than his country of birth, he has excelled since joining the Banijan national team. Out to prove himself over the years, he has done so and then some- being the first name on the team sheet for the most successful two cycle period in the history of the Kadongo Kamu. He's won a regional title and now a World Cup title, and his brace in the World Cup 93 Final, where Banija was victorious, sealed his title as a legend of the game forever. Not to mention, the dual-national got true recognition for it, winning the Testículo de Oro Award- aka being named the world player of the year for his exploits for both club and country

Clearly Banija's best ever #9, he's trying to build his legacy as Banija's best ever player- period. At 28 years old and with basically no competition for minutes at his position for the foreseeable future, he's almost certain to become Banija's all-time leading goalscorer two cycles from now. Can he continue to build on his silverware and trophy cabinet, and bring more glory to his country while trying to define himself as the greatest Banijan to ever play this game?

2. Sarafina Ikpeazu

"Receiving this armband- it's one of the greatest honors that I've ever received in my entire life." She told reporters after she was named the permanent NT captain shortly before AOCAF LXVIII. "We are dreaming big , and I want to be mentioned among the great Banijan captains- players like Kuma Bultum, Gitonga Kahara, etc... That helped Banija achieve perpetual glory." She's done well as the team's captain so far, helping lead and guide the team to the AOCAF LXVIII Final. She's stepping well into her leadership role, filling the void that Wanda Kouyaté leaves, as she finally walked away from the international game at age 40.

It's not just the leadership as well- Ikpeazu, even at age 34, is absolutely a crucial player for her national team. Coming off the bench in a limited, but still crucial role for Sabrefell Athletic at the club level, she gives her all for her country. She was crucial in Banija's World Cup victory, being the armband wearer, as well assisting a few of Banija's goals in their World Cup victory. Can she continue to prove herself as a lynchpin for her country even while playing limited minutes for her club?

3. Opio Ssambwa

The marauding left back garnered a lot of attention as part of Banija's World Cup winning squad, playing well as a starter in the World Cup Final. Just 22 years old, the talented left back has finally wrestled the permanent NT role from Sohna Kelley, and is probably the brightest player of the next generation- while also being a key contributor for the current generation. Coming up through the ranks at Kitara AA, he's off to Herzegovina City in Banija so he can experience the pressures of a title race. He's only expected to spend a lone season at Herzegovina City, as he's long desired to play in a big league abroad, and he will likely want to do that.

As a guy who's trying to go abroad for club football, he's certainly going to be having plenty of pressure every time he's pressured. However, while he's got all the physical talent, he plays with youthful, reckless abandon sometimes, leaving other defenders under pressure. Can he star in the AOCAFs and earn that long-awaited move abroad?

[Squornshelan Remnant States]

Squornshelan Remnant States Black-and-Reds Roster
AOCAF CUP LXIX

RP Permissions
Choose my scorers: Y
Choose my scoring events: Y
Godmod scoring events: Y
RP injuries to my players: Y
Godmod Injuries to my players: Y
Give Yellow Cards to my players: Y
Give Red Cards to my players: Y
Godmod other events: Y
No death or defection without my consent, anything else is fair game
I will not be RPing anything pandemic-related. I come here to get away from the real world.
Style Modifier: +1
Formation: 4-2-3-1

Trigram: SRS
Manager: Gareth Penrooke
Captain: Mithya Hashemi
Vice Captain: Vasilii Nyberg
Long Form Name: The Confederacy of Squornshelan Remnant States
Short Form Names: Squornshelan Confederacy, The Confederacy, Squornshelous
Demonyms: Confederate (political); Squornshelan (cultural, not always PC)
Ethnicites in the Confederacy include Squornshelan, Molvanian, Brantid, Algolian, Sivolvian, and Han. If you are curious about a particular player's ethnicity you can send me a TG or message me on discord
Team Nickname: Black-and-Reds (never Red-and-Blacks)
Team Colors: Confederate Red (#EE0000) and Black (#000000)

The Black-and-Reds will enter their first AOCAF Cup under Gareth Penrooke after the qualified success of reaching the second round of World Cup 93 in the Nepharan's managerial debut. The team lost to eventual third-place finishers and current KPB #1, Græntfjall, but made a respectable showing. They'll enter this AOCAF Cup considered among the favorites for a deep run, along with perennial contenders like Banija, Valanora, and the dual threat of Vilita & Turori. Under Penrooke, the team plays a fast-paced, direct game, with the central three midfielders playing the most important role in the attacking buildup. The wingers are each as likely to score as launch a cross, and the fullbacks frequently range far forward. As far as the lineup that will execute Penrooke's tactics, the first team is the same that traveled to ____ for the World Cup, but the reserves feature a number of uncapped or little-seen players with open futures, particularly in the midfield.

Goalkeepers:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
 1 Paiva Shimski      31  She/Her    AFC Treason
13 Nurul Heiskanen    31   He/Him    Port Rhovanyon AFC
41 Shreya Krusan      26  She/Her    Perce Town

Right Backs:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
32 Solan Halfariani   28   He/Him    Damogran FC
 2 Aaro Musta         26   He/Him    Rammsissil

Left Backs:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
20 Vasilii Nyberg     31   He/Him    Sabrefell Moths
28 Ffraid Norling     24  She/Her    Chalesm

Center Backs:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
23 Blasko Titov       29   He/Him    Megabrantid
29 Malai Yarlut       30  She/Her    Goodfeather FC
 4 Aryel Ciernik      33  She/Her    Concord Heights City
24 Hamida Van         21  She/Her    Algolia
15 Valtteri Tirel     20   He/Him    AFC Treason

Midfielders:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
8  Mithya Hashemi     32  She/Her    Anomalies
10 Purna Zazagan      32  She/Her    AFC Treason
37 Tyra Volam         30  She/Her    Sporting Jaglan
19 Sevet-Ibilx Kai    23 They/Them   Brantisvogan FC
20 Embla Avachinsky   23  She/Her    Lhor
16 Sevda Boulos       22  She/Her    Damogran
22 Nur Amjol          20  She/Her    Sivolvia Capitalizt

Right Wings:

#  Player             Age    Pro.    Club
 7 Ikra Yonte          32  She/Her    Burnaby SC
13 Vyacheslav Maksimov 30   He/Him    Algolia

Left Wings:

#  Player             Age    Pro.    Club
40 Thorgnyr Bondarov   29   He/Him    Tropicorp FC
11 Oystein Shakhnovich 21   He/Him    Sivolvia Capitalizt

Forwards:

#  Player            Age    Pro.    Club
17 Caitrin Ness       32  She/Her    Chalesm
18 Snorre Fridtjofs   30   He/Him    Kyethas Rivermen
21 Ottilia Hjort      26  She/Her    Dynamo Sjoedrhavn*

*will be listed next TW, available for mid-season transfer

Anticipated First Team:

[Canadian Dominion]

Team Canada Goose

Team Logo

Home Kit

Away Kit]

Style Mod and Other things.

Style mod: +3.5
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Nolan Cairns

Full Roster
Canadian Dominion Football Depth Chart

POS        STARTER	    2ND	
G	Killian Woods	Ryder Morrison	
RFB	Jonah Wood	Luke Hoffman    
MLB	Hunter Menton	Aarav Dawson	
LFB	Logan Wilson	Quinn Johnson	
ROMF	William Adamou	Jaxson Till	
RDMF	Tristan Dawson	Lukas Jacks	
LDMF	Christ Irwin	Tristan Kingson	
LOMF	Joseph Staples	Jason Kane	
RF	Alexander Brock	Zayn Point	
CF	Jeremiah Symons	Walter George	
LF	Lukas Irwin	Finn Mayer

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:

Choose my Scorers: Y
Choose Scoring Events: Y
Godmod Scoring Events: Y
RP Injuries to my Players: Y
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Assign Penalties to my Players: Y
Eject my Players: No
Godmod Other Events: No

[Kimi-Suomi]

Name: Kimi-Suomi
Trigram: KIM
Football Association: Football Federation of Kimi-Suomi (Kimi-Suomen Jalkapalloliitto, KSJ for short)
Nickname: The Eagle-Owls [Huuhkajat] (official), Kimi's Army [Kimin Armeija] (unofficial)
Home Kit: White/Dark Blue
Away Kit: All Dark Blue

---

TEAM
STARTERS
Manager: Esko Laaksonen (57)
Formation: 5-3-2
Style Modifier: None
Position: Name (Age, Number)

GK: Peter Nurmi (31, #1) - Katashi Azula, Ko-oren
LB: Carl Oesch (29, #2) - Atletico Menai, StrayaRoos
CB: Arto Rautavaara (30, #3) - FC 69 Norwegian wood, Brookstation
CB: Tiina Rautavaara (30, #4) - Arboren FC, Ko-oren
CB: Heli Rautavaara (30, #5) - Ederkhen United, Atheara
RB: Heidi Itälä (29, #6) - Greenlea Ladies FC, Baker Parkin Kansainyhteisö [Commonwealth of Baker Park]
LM: Annina Tuominen (29, #7) - Far Hills Coed FC, Baker Parkin Kansainyhteisö [Commonwealth of Baker Park]
CM: Mika Noronen (27, #8) - Alexandria City, Xannerinen [Xanneria]
RM: Maria Tuominen (29, #9) - Far Hills Coed FC, Baker Parkin Kansainyhteisö [Commonwealth of Baker Park]
ST: Kimi Airo (30, #10) (C) - Castelo e Calvente CS, Ko-oren
ST: Valtteri Nordström (29, #11) - Astena Aphilists, Atheara

SUBSTITUTES
GK: Anna-Leena Outinen (26, #12) - Snowden Capitalizt, Brenecinen [Brenecia]
GK: Alexander Ekdal (20, #23) - Clube de Norwegian wood, Brookstation
LB: Awak Koskimies (20, #13) - Alikki-Corra Settlers, Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori]
CB: Anna Iso-Hollo (27, #14) - Sokattack Mliona, Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori]
CB: Kaarlo Karjalainen (25, #15) - Pesjem Jematang, Pemecutan
CB: Kimmo Karjalainen (25, #16) - SC. Tabeira, Acastanha
CB: Amanda Angeldahl (21, #24) - Couziers-Olympiques, Ko-oren
RB: Satu Sinisalo (25, #17) - Kistina Galaxy, Perunanviljelijät [Poafmersia]
LM: Remu Jantunen (20, #18) - Clerisy, Oberour Ar Moro
CM: Topias Maxhuni (21, #19) - Alikki-Corra Settlers, Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori]
CM: Cajsa Janogy (20, #25) - Vilitan League Club, Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori]
RM: Karl Leif Svonsson (18, #20)
ST: Teemu Räikkönen (25, #21) - Pretihouse Pirate FC, Stevenserkku [Stevencousin]
ST: Jyrki Bottas (25, #22) - Kiiarana City, Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori]
ST: Anne Marie Leppälä (21, #26) - Far Hills Coed FC, Baker Parkin Kansainyhteisö [Commonwealth of Baker Park]

---

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
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: No

[Jabal Akhdar]

Nation name: Jabal Akhdar
Trigram: EJA
Adjective/demonym: Akhdari
Nickname: Green Falcons

All players are domestic unless otherwise noted. All domestic players are available on transfer as free agents.

Coach: Zuhair Badr Abdullah el-Hameed

el-Hameed may not have exactly pulled the Green Falcons out of their slump, having missed the playoffs at AOCAF Cup 68, but he did at least secure their first win in four years and his team was generally regarded as unlucky to miss the Round of 16. He also saw huge turnover, including every single forward player being new to the team. Add to that he's still only 33. It has all meant he's been given another cycle to prove what, if anything, he can do, for a team that once looked to be soaring high but has now gone nearly a decade without achieving any notable results. Known for his rapport with younger players he's not as strict a disciplinarian as el-Hamid (no relation) was, but tactically the two aren't as far apart as the generational gulf might suggest.[/i]

Goalkeepers

1 – GK – Mamdooh el-Abdul (Salayrah) – 33
13 – GK – Taamir Muzammil al-Semaan ( Audio Bull Energy) – 22
23 – GK – Najeem Ali al-Anan ( Bugebanda) – 30

al-Semaan, a promising young prospect, is thrust into the starter role in preference to the tried and tested (and mostly found wanting in said tests) el-Abdul, a controversial but acrobatic figure, who's served a doping ban can be indecisive in managing his defensive area. al-Semaan is a lanky pure shot-stopper and has become known for his booming kicks regularly travelling two-thirds of the field, but isn't up to much scratch with the ball at his feet. He made his name saving every single penalty in the EJA Cup semi-final shootout.

Defenders

2 – DL – Mu’min Humam Kassis (AOPIC Greens) – 34
3 – DR – Rayyan Noor Zaman ( Maigburg) – 33
4 – DC – Umair Jalil al-Jalil (Dhabaidat) – 28
6 – DC – Umar el-Saladin ( Caballeros CF) – 26
12 – DC – Bilal Nadheer el-Sabir[/color] (Kalbam) – 29
17 – DL – Faai Zayyaan el-Karim (Ashkarqa) – 29
18 – DR – Masood Abdullah (Habasfan) – 27
19 – DC – Talha Nizaam el-Galla (AOPIC Greens) – 20
21 – DC – Sabri el-Salaam (AOPIC Greens) – 25

el-Saladin and al-Jalil made a somewhat uncertain centre back pairing 2 years ago; the hope is they've matured a little. The Green Falcons have struggled a lot at this position and with younger options like the tall el-Salaam and skilled el-Galla emerging, patience with the two may not last long. At fullback it's a different story: Zaman remains the team's best player, a wing-back with a powerful right boot who’s always a threat to shoot or cross; unusually for a fullback, he was the team’s highest scorer in World Cup qualifying. Kassis has bounced in and out of the team; out, for the moment, with the steady el-Karim preferred to the flashier option at left-back.

Midfielders

5 – DM – Raihaan al-Dajani ( Alikki-Corra Settlers) – 20
7 – MC – Abdul-Majid Jarir Hakimi (AOPIC Greens) – 36
14 – DM – Mutlaq el-Basha (AOPIC Greens) – 28
16 – MC – Abdul Jaabir al-Shahan ( Caballeros CF) – 24
20 – MC – Ali Noor (AOPIC Greens) – 23
22 – MC – Jalaal el-Mady (Habasfan) – 23
25 – MC – Saajid Faarooq el-Hamdan ( AC Zul'Atun) – 27

el-Basha, a sturdy and uncomplicated defensive midfielder, loses out to the young talent al-Dajani, who's a more rounded talent. It's all change, too, with Hakimi, long the team's heart, relegated to the bench. el-Mady is a tireless box-to-box energy presence, while Ali Noor is the new creative talent for the country's best team, AOPIC Greens. al-Shahan, who's a good set-piece target thanks to this height, and the speedy el-Hamdan also join the squad for the first time.

Forwards

8 – LW – Shukkriya Juwairiya el-Mahfouz (AOPIC Greens) – 22
9 – CF – Yaasir al-Raad (Khamad) – 29
10 – CF – Mohammad Qutb el-Hashmi ( Khupolole Leopards) – 29
11 – RW – Hamaad Hamdaan el-Haider ( AC Dason) – 21
15 – RW – Mansur Hosain ([WXA] Stellar Snakes) – 25
24 – LW – Numair Kassem Yousef (Khamad) – 26
26 – CF – Shaqeequddeen ( Athletic Rolalas) – 25

The Green Falcons' ageing strikers finally hung up their boots last cycle, giving a completely new front three a chance. al-Raad is probably the first choice centre forward, a tall and confident target man with a strong left boot and absolutely no right, but el-Hashmi could displace him as a better option to drop into a 10 role and distribute. They're flanked by very young wingers in a daring gambit: el-Haider and el-Mahfouz are, combined, not even 40. Given the greenness of these Green Falcons, there may be a lot of rotation.

Style modifier: -1

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes
Godmod other events: Yes
If you use photographs for your RPs, please do not say the photographs represent my players without asking me first.

[Mlima Kijani]

Nation name: Mlima Kijani
Trigram: MLK
Demonym/adjective: Kijani
Nickname: Kings

All players are domestic unless otherwise stated. All players are available for transfer as free agents.

Staff

Coach: Enoch Apolo (73)
Assistant coach: Ochola Bigombe (44)

Goalkeepers

1. Kĩng’Ori Mũthĩnji (27) Khupolole Leopards
12. Wachiru Gĩcheha (28) SC Alten-Alben Stühbeuren
23. Eleazar Obonyo (32) Tálknaneyri

Defenders

2. Michael Odhiambo (32) AOPIC Greens
3. Taamiti Bingamu (32) Bujuyaga Stars
5. Mũthũngũ Watene (30) Fliserboding
6. Thuũ “Combo” Ngũnjiri (30) Khupolole Leopards
13. Emanuel Ngigi (29) Igulu City
16. Barnabas Nyang’au (28) Hofvinger
20. Mumbya Ibulaim (33) Estdal
22. Umoja Kabatuswila (26) Bujuyaga Stars
24. Kĩng’Ori Wang’Ombe (24) no club attached

Midfielders

4. Elasah Oero (26) Khupolole Leopards
7. Ocan Odek (28) Bugebanda
8. Kariũki Wambũgũ (23) Khupolole Leopards
11. Jubal Ogweyo (29) Bugebanda
14. Ramadhani Muhammed (30) Cazavientos
15. Ongweng Omole (23) KPC Sharks
18. Kajwang Orombi (27) Khupolole Leopards
19. Taji Mohammed (26) Real Byumragara
21. Gĩchikũ Mũrĩranja (30) FC Vamas
25. Odikinyi Bigombe (27) Kuodorf

Forwards

9. Kĩoi Mũrũngarũa (35) Kigu City
10. Rufus Abong’o (32) AOPIC Greens
17. Kinũthia Gathongo (25) Hagejoki
26. Kimba Mfuni (23) AOPIC Greens

Permissions:

Y…

except for:

Please don’t use unedited photographs and say they’re my players.

Style modifier: +4.1

[Demot]

Demot "Dynamo" Roster

Kits

Home Away

Manager: Scott Gaines, age 66
Assistant: Gary Josephs, age 64

Modifier: +3

GK: Ramón Coleman, age 36, Tiranyus FC
GK: Erica Caldwell, age 38, Skyhaven FC(F)
GK: Michael Thrasher, age 28, Likewell Kirk
LB: Emily Blevins, age 32, FC Almintora (F)
LB: Carl Williams, age 29, Skyhaven FC
CB: Ryan Storm, age 27, Tiranyus FC
CB: Irene Colón, age 33, Club Demot (F)
RB: Albert Gilliam, age 27, Likewell Kirk
RB: Ebony Horner, age 22, Tiranyus FC (F)
RW: Gregory Jackson, age 27, Oceanic United
RW: Valencia Stewart, age 27, Skyhaven FC (F)
LW: Eda Bergeron, age 26, Club Demot (F)
LW: Glen López, age 32, Santa Rosa FC
MC: Dawn Washington, age 29, Parthen United (F)
MC: Dana Henry, age 22, Likewell Kirk (F)
AMC: Beverly Harding, age 27, Mirria City (F)
AMC: Carl Mason, age 25, Santa Rosa FC
AMC: Edgar Méndez, age 35, Likewell Kirk
AMC: David Willis, age 25, Santa Rosa FC
ST: Mary Eades, age 28, Likewell Kirk (F)
ST: Myrtle Detwiler, age 23, Oceanic United (F)
ST: Bryan Hernández, age 31, Santa Rosa FC
ST: Sara Jones, age 28, Club Demot (F)

I Give To My Opponent The Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers: Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events: N
Injure Players: Y, but no more than two games out
Godmod Injury Events: N
Red Card Players: Y
Yellow Card Players: Y
Godmod Other Events: TG me first.
=================================

[Oontaz Dert Li Ng]

SULTANATE OF OONTAZ DERT LI NG
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL TEAM

This is the seventeenth time that Oontaz Dert Li Ng will be participating in the AOCAF. Oontaz got through undefeated in the group stage of the Baptism of Fire 61 but was knocked out in the round of 16 by Arioslavia. The nation is a mix of Muslims and Catholics, with the Mohammedans concentrated in the northern part of the country and the Christians living mostly in the southern islands. Despite a turbulent early history which saw both religious groups fighting constant wars and rebellions, by the time Abanhfleft came and established diplomatic relations with the nation in 1921, a general "peace" had settled between the two groups, and today both are content to consider each other as Oontazniks. Despite being a sultanate, the freedom of religion is valued by the nation, although it would be good advice to say that while the Catholics and Christians might be welcoming, even accommodating, to foreigners of strange new religions, the Muslims might not be so welcoming.

BASIC INFORMATION
Name of nation: Sultanate of Oontaz Dert Li Ng
Demonym: Oontaznik
Nickname: Lions of Sand and Sea
Team colors: Green and white
Style modifier: -2.0 (Defensive this time around)
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Head coach: Faris Feraoun (64 y/o, Oontaz Dert Li Ng)

STARTERS
GK: Aziz MEKHLOUFI 35 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi

RB: Anass SAQQAF 29 y/o, Dinamo Bender (Pridnestrovia)

RCB: Reda CHOUCHANE 26 y/o, Pasargad Manitogoro

LCB: ANAS IMAM 28 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi

LB: Hakim MANSOUR 27 y/o, Malabon SC (Abanhfleft)

DM: Mounir MUSTAFAWI 26 y/o, Mah Deg Diamonds (Copper Cuprum)

CM: MURIEL Nigeriano 28 y/o, Botafogo de Maranao

RW: Abdelqader JALMASANI 29 y/o, Arsenal de Releinthi (Abanhfleft)

CAM: ABDILLAH bin Ahmad Shariffuddin 22 y/o, Esteghlal Omidinabad on loan from Botafogo de Maranao

LW: Rahim ABBASI 27 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi

FW: Djet ARIYADI 29 y/o, Ludogorets Markovsky (Abanhfleft)

RESERVES
GK: Rashiddo EL HAROUN 30 y/o, Athletic Dorfdifving (Abanhfleft)

GK: Errol TAULAVA 28 y/o, Vigan Athletic

DEF: PUTU GEDE Ambara 31 y/o, General Trias Multiversal

DEF: Mohd ZAIDIL bin Yusoff 28 y/o, Esteghlal Omidinabad

DEF: Kenny PARDO 23 y/o, Dynamo Ja (Abanhfleft), on loan from Riuwiee United (Abanhfleft)

DEF: Sunar SULISTYO 27 y/o, Vay Deg Eels A.F.C. (Copper Cuprum)

MID: Jefferson MONTIEL 24 y/o, Pasargad Manitogoro

MID: Sandro "TONTO" Albuquerque Lopes 35 y/o, General Santos FC

MID: José Miguel CARRASQUEL 22 y/o, Rayo La Presa

FW: Mohd JAMAL bin Hassani 23 y/o, RCD Baler

FW: Ortizan KARISMA 23 y/o, Athletic Dorfdifving (Abanhfleft), on loan from Rosenpfelblatz City (Abanhfleft)

FW: Donnie ONG 25 y/o, Habaniyyah Harriers

FORMATION


HOME STADIA

Official name: Sultan Abubakar International Stadium
Capacity: est. 70,000
Tenant: Pasargad Manitogoro FC

Official name: Emir Nawwaz bin Marwan ibn Baloch Stadium
Capacity: est. 42,000
Tenant: Gryphons Nubalochi FC

Official name: Estadio Honorario General Artemio Espinosa Villavicencio
Capacity: est. 32,000
Tenant: General Santos FC

Official name: Estadio Commemorativo Sargento Primero Leopoldo Mamintas
Capacity: est. 60,000
Tenant: FC Botafogo de Maranao

SCHEDULE
Win-loss record: 15-7-16 (penalty shootouts counted as draws)
To be edited...

RP PERMISSIONS
Anything except killing my players is fair game.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Football Association of the Commonwealth

Major Honors

Winners
5th Under 18 World Championship
9th Under 18 World Championship
62nd AOCAF Cup
66th AOCAF Cup
Cup of Champions (Eagles Cup 13)
DiBradini Cup 53/74th Under 21 World Championship
Runner-up
67th Baptism of Fire
Eagles Cup 13
Third Place
58th AOCAF Cup
60th AOCAF Cup
Eagles Cup 14
Fourth Place
World Cup 85
63rd AOCAF Cup
Women's World Cup 15/Jenna Raven Cup 2

Established in 1901, the FAC is the governing body of the sport in Baker Park, maintaining a registry of over 24,000 players between the ages of 11 and 80; 3,500 officials; 128 full member clubs and 350 associate member clubs; sponsoring 12 National Championships for men & women across all levels. in addition to 6 domestic cup competitions; and offering training programs for coaches and physiotherapists covering youth to professional certification.

All time match record—544 wins, 294 losses, 164 draws (1002 matches)
(current through World Cup 93)
NS Record—365 wins, 132 losses, 95 draws (592 matches)
AOCAF Record--63 wins, 18 losses, 11 draws (92 matches)

KPB Ranking--25.65 (24th)
style--+2.95
Formation--3-4-1-2

In the “BP System” or the “BP Way” (neither of those should be considered as something used officially or unofficially—if you wanted to term it as such as something of your own IC creation, go for it) the 3-4-1-2 is more literal than the manner in which it's used RL.
A discussion I had with another user made me contemplate providing a bit more concrete info on just who plays where when you see my lineups/bench for individual matches.
Defense: the three backs play tight to one another when the ball is in the middle or defensive thirds—they should really be termed LCB/CCB/RCB. The outside pair will never be wider than diameter of the center circle. They both man-mark (unless there is an IC tactical reason they don't) and the centerback zonal marks (usually helping one of the other two). The CB is technically a fullback as they have more freedom to move forward with the ball at feet. In a pinch, an emergency situation as a sub, they could all play any of the three positions.
Midfield: there is a good deal of set responsibility among the four across midfield, but the one thing that is always a constant is the wings are the workhorses, they cover more distance than the other players. I've hinted at or flat out said in match reports in the past that left wing (and they are 99.9% of time always left footed) is THE talismanic position in The System, as right fullback is considered (in BP) as usually the weakest position in a flat back four.
The two central midfielders usually have a specific role, one as the playmaker, the distributor and the other as the defensive, hard tackler, disruptor, ball winner.
The preferred position is listed first, but the ones that follow show how versatile that player is. For CM's the left/right designation is the stronger side for that player, but in theory almost anyone in midfield can play in the center of midfield.
Forward: Ah yes, the wild card element. In this case, the differentiation should be looked at from the perspective of another sport—basketball.
The three positions are almost adapted from the indoor game: the center forward, the target man, the number 9—the one who plays up front but facing away from the goal. Mostly it's men who hold down this role in the NT, although not always.
The striker—they want to be played into an area by a pass, or want room to get a touch before shooting. They face goal, but usually in or very close to the box.
The 'slot'--what a lot of people call the attacking midfielder or the CAM. This is a player that can dribble and create their own shot, or draw defenders and find others. There's a reason why this position can be played by a midfielder or a forward and the rationale usually depends on a chemistry between a pair or trio. West, Craig & Pryor will go down in history as the most prolific combo because the man developed a good rapport with the women who were club teammates.
In conclusion—BP should always be RP'd (of course at your discretion, and I will always adapt to anyone who RP's first if something that's not necessarily canon is mentioned) as--

*fast, short passing
*high lines & pressing
*offside trap
*technically sound
*not easily intimidated
*willing to play anyone, anywhere

National Anthem--"Hear Our Voices Commonwealth"

Nickname--since the end of the 1960's the National Team has been known as "The Bees", a period when the team's uniforms consisted of alternating black and gold hoops.
Previous to that time and subsequently through periods in the 1980's and 90's, the team was usually referred to by the county's national animal, the Elks; the women's National Team were always 'Lady Elks' until the advent of mixed gender play, which was revived during the Jenna Raven Cup and there are still numerous mentions of Elks in the supporters song “We are the Gold & Black”, which currently has close to 175 stanzas.

Colors--Black & Gold (while they are just 2 of the 5 main colors on the flag of Baker Park--Blue, Red and White are the others--black & gold have been closely associated in the nation's consciousness as representative of the country since its founding.)

Coaching Staff

Manager: Liam Sullivan
Assistant: Hailey Reinhart-Zavaros
Coaches: Chris LaRue, Steven Tseng, Rich Gabriel

GK
Beth Rossi		23	Llewellyn Turnpike Ladies FC
Geoff Cotterill		23	Learfield FC
Ian Dickerson		23	Southend AC	
DEF
Eric Lohmeyer		22	Nor-Dale AFC
Marcus Taylor		22	Clayton City  FC
Heidi Jorgensen	        24	Clayton City Ladies FC 
Lance Calvert		22	Fairport City FC
Marty Cooke		21	Monmouth Park FC
Megan Walker		24	CS Saint-Remy (KSK)
Carlton Frost		23	Shirley Metros FC
MID
Travis Howard		21	Jamestown City FC
Leanne Bryant		22	Hamilton Wanderers Ladies FC
Jimmy Fourier		21	Asbury Park FC
Andrea Kirby		23	Bergholz Caledonian FC
Edward Ogwumike	        23	Hillsborough FC
Anthony Romero	        21	North Royalton Town FC
Carlton Morgan	        21	Victoria & Albert SC
Rob D'Alessandro	22	Meadowdale FC	
April Syzmanski	        23	Broadview AFC
FWD
David Coleman	        22	St Warren City FC
Fatima Khan		22	Great Northern RR FC
Chris Sonjini		21	Midtown AC
Peter Obulundi	        24	Newmarket Saxons FC
Phan My Kieu		23	Linden Ladies FC

Kits

Permissions
_________________________________________________________________________________

In the event my opponent RPs first, they may...
Choose my goalscorers: YES
Godmod scoring events: YES
RP injuries to my players: YES, but those that would be for just the duration of the match (TG in advance would be appreciated as well)
Godmod injuries to my players: See Above
Hand out yellow cards to my players: YES
Hand out red cards to my players: YES, but again, a heads up in advance is appreciated, as I would do for you.
Godmod other events: TG what you have in mind, I'm easy to come to an understanding with

[Fort McKinley]

People's Republic of Fort McKinley

Fort McKinley's National Football Team have seen fit to participate for the fourth time in the exhibition matches called the OFA Cup, although now fully aware of the various plots against our Heroes of the Revolution to place obstacles in the path of the squad being able to show their superiority over the weak, decadent capitalist foes that they will face.

All time match record--35 wins, 31 defeats*, 15 draws
AOCAF record--4 wins, 5 defeats*, 2 draws
*totals disputed by the FMFA

Manager: Danny Todd Jones
Coaches: Mel Bob Miller, Harry Fred Gray

Formation: 4-4-2
Style: 1.1
starters are in bold

GK
20 Jimmy Dale Beard		Gold Star Redonia
1  Sammy Pete Davis		Curundu Metropolitan
DEF
22 Bobby Ray Allen  		Wilmore Metropolitan
21 Eddie Burt Miller		Workers Club Merryfield
3  Steven Gary Smith		Comrade Dr Allen
5  Mickey Joe Beard		Parkfield Metropolitan
2  Aaron Roy Morris		Workers Club Redonia
4  Davey Charles Young	        Gold Star Redonia
19 Peter Tom Jones		Gold Star Wilmore
MID
7  John Hugh Davis		Motor Curundu
14 Peter Edward Miller 	        Capital Metropolitan
11 Ernie Clyde Beard		Gold Star Wilmore
8  Simon Jay Allen		Gold Star Redonia
12 Lee Myron Clark		Melgrove Metropolitan
6  Willie Tom Clark		Comrade Dr Allen
16 Marty Neal Gray		Workers Club Redonia
18 Richie Steve Young	        Curundu Metropolitan
FWD
17 Larry Doug Jones		Capital Metropolitan
9  Dennis Gene Young	        Comrade Dr Allen
13 Joe Willy Morris		Aerotech Wolf Creek
10 Steve Wayne Smith	        Gold Star Redonia
15 Tony Chuck Miller		Workers Club Merryfield
23 Sonny Bill Davis		Gold Star Wilmore

The People's Revolution Stadium is located in Shiloh Springs, seating capacity is 38,000

Like most Commie regimes, obviously there is a certain amount of disconnect from reality in what the News Agency reports.

In the event my opponent RPs first, they may...

Choose my goalscorers: YES
Godmod scoring events: YES
RP injuries to my players: YES, but those that would be for just the duration of the match (TG in advance would be appreciated as well)
Godmod injuries to my players: See Above
Hand out yellow cards to my players: YES
Hand out red cards to my players: YES, but again, a heads up in advance is appreciated, as I would do for you.
Godmod other events: TG what you have in mind, I'm easy to come to an understanding with

[Tropicorp]

Tropicorp began their competitive Footsport program during AOCAF 49 with their first ever match a respectable 0-3 defeat to regional super powers Valanora. The purpose of their participation was to determine if the regional footsport tournament would be a suitable environment for the testing of products such as athletic gear produced by Tropicorp Sports. During AOCAF 50, Tropicorp put out a call amongst a subset of its scientists, researchers and engineers for support on an ongoing project. The project saw Tropicorp scientists, researchers, engineers and other such guinea pigs wearing special fabrics with electronic measuring devices sewn into them in order to aid in their measurements and calculations. The data collected during AOCAF 50 was absolutely invaluable to the project. The experiments were a success and Tropicorp Engineers have been putting the data to the test at Tropicorp locations in Tropicoast and also at a new facility at an undisclosed location, also on Calania. During AOCAF 51, the scientists, researchers and engineers returned to collect some final data points to push them towards the final phase of the project. However, a strange thing happened during AOCAF 51 - the Tropicorp Scientists - perhaps a result of their own detailed research of the game, began not only to be competitive, but to win matches. The Techies actually qualified for the Knockout Rounds and stunned many with their performances until ultimately being knocked out by host and eventual champion nation Valanora.

From there, Tropicorp became a testing ground for the joint Tropicorp-Cocoabo Park led Cocoabo Enrichment and Enhancement Project. The Cocoabo proved to hold their own on the pitch and proved that they were ready for action, seeing action during World Cup 78 Qualifying for Turori and during the XII Olympiad in Novanaya and Vekaiyu - with the Cocoabo team making it all the way to the Olympic final before losing to Darmen and earning the Silver Medal. Until the Cocoabo lift the NS World Cup trophy, however, the work for the scientists and researchers from Tropicorp and Cocoabo Park will not be done. They will continue tweaking, continue training, and continue CEEPing. Now, the focus for the Tropicorp Team is not to perfect the Cocoabo Squad, but to study the makeup of the 'optimum' team - a hybrid Citizen-Cocoabo Roster that could one way or another shape the future of footsport in the Vilitan Cove. This experiment is expected to continue through an entire generation of Cocoabo. While the current generation have made improvements in collaborating on field with Citizen players, they were bred to function as a singular unit. Only with the next generation of Cocoabo is it believed that full, seamless integration between Citizen and Cocoabo players will be possible.

Tropicorp is expected to favor its citizen players over Cocoabo who have been participating in other tournaments. However, the Cocoabo are still available for selection if required.

---

Eligibility to compete on Team Tropicorp is defined as follows:

• Currently Employed by Tropicorp or in Retiree status with Tropicorp
• Has resided 3+ Years in Vilita, Turori or Tropicoast

Vilitan Defender Moumouni Verre'elali is eligible for Team Tropicorp as a citizen of Vilita and employee of Tropicorp through Tropicorp FC, however the defender has once again been chosen for the Vilita and Turori AOCAF Squad preventing their participation with Team Tropicorp.

---

Goalkeepers
#1 - Hanauma Ranbomahi is a 27 year old Vilitan Goalkeeper who qualifies to play for the National Team of Tropicorp as an employee of Tropicorp by virtue of playing their club footsport at Tropicorp FC in the Vilitan League. Ranbomahi is expected to play all no fewer then 45 minutes in each match.

#12 - Jorden Calvanese Is a long time Tropicorp Employee who serves as Ranbomahi's backup on Tropicorp FC and will serve as the primary backup during the AOCAF Competition.

Cocoabo Representative(s):
Cocoabo #88
Cocoabo #89

Defenders
There will be two scientists and two researchers on the field at any given time, with a further 2 scientists and 2 researchers working from the sidelines and prepared to step in if needed. Laurie Kannemeyer is the most experienced on-field scientist defender for the Techies.

#2 - Laurie Kannemeyer
#3 - Desoro Allene
#4 - Doctor Anhary
#5 - Kuach Semaj

Cocoabo Representative(s):
Cocoabo #58
Cocoabo #57
Cocoabo #53
Cocoabo #59

Midfielders
As with the defenders, There will be two scientists and two researchers on the field at any given time, with a further 2 scientists and 2 researchers working from the sidelines and prepared to step in if needed. They will alternate between central and wing positions. Former Sunrisean midfielder Hasato Kimiki qualifies to play for the squad as an employee of Tropicorp by virtue of being Tropicorp FC's Assistant Manager. Kimiki will reprise his coaching role for the Tropicorp team as well as joining the team on the pitch should they need reinforcements. Greg Narine and Laari Kallimanis lead the Scientist and Research teams in midfield.

#6 - Laari Kallimanis
#7 - Greg Narine
#8 - Narya Kaiakay
#9 - Oliso Ettori

#13 - Hasato Kimiki
#14 - Villa Isaaka (Also sub forward)

Cocoabo Representative(s):
Cocoabo #61
Cocoabo #46
Cocoabo #65
Cocoabo #64
Cocoabo #67

Forwards
There will be one Scientist, and one Researcher working in tandem and one each from the sidelines. Ashlyn Kojici has been the top performing attacker amongst the Tropicorp Employees and will work alongside Esojai Mokawe. Newcomer Jurip Kinlawa, who recently turned a student internship into a full time position in Tropicorp's Ecological Research Department, is the newest member of the Tropicorp Team serving as a backup attacker.

#10 - Ashlyn Kojici
#11 - Esojai Mokawe

#15 - Jurip Kinlawa

Cocoabo Representative(s):
Cocoabo #91
Cocoabo #99
Cocoabo #98

---

Team Nickname: the "Techies"

Style: RAND(-5,5)



====================
Invent Names for additional Scientists/Researchers/Engineers: Y
Choose Scorers: Y
GodMod Goalscoring Events: Y

Injure Players: Y
GodMod Injury Events Y

Red Card Players: Y
Yellow Card Players: Y
GodMod Other Events: Y
===================

[Milchama]

Alexandria Times-Tribune-Sun-Moon-Sky-Picayune-Courier-Post-Pre-Forward-Current-Reader

Sports Section

Who is on the roster for Milchama?

We all know that Who plays striker and What is a midfielder and I don't know is a defender but can we come up with a team that only includes dumb questions from a very old vaudevillian comic bit? That was the questions that confronted the Milchama Football Association this morning. The answer was, yes we can! So without further ado here is the Milchamian roster for AOCAF 69.

Manager: Haim Abbot

The traditional Milchamian 3-3-4 (+3)

GK: I Don't Give a Darn
D: I Don't Know
D: Because
D: Of
M: Why
M: What
M: Would Happen
F: Who
F: Today
F: Tomorrow
F: Well

Subs:
Subs:
GK: Ishtvan Martin - Second string
GK: LaDonte Crenter - Third string. He also occasionally plays left back.
D: Yosef Ben Bazar - CB While his dad might be weird, Ben Bazar is not. His no nonsense attitude translates into a lot of cards at time.
D: Dallas Hunter - LB - Shoots to kill. Very aggressive outside back.
D: Clara Tresa - For a Milchamian defender has surprisingly good dribbling skills. Her offensive production though is stopped by her hard tackles.
D: Davis Clark - Big man who is good at headers.
M: Tiam Hotonon - RM - Led the Invading Crusaders to a surprise 2nd place and got himself into the national team picture.
M: Morris Maris - Fast tricky winger. Was decided to move back to the bench to help transition the team. He might just break back into the starting lineup soon.
M:Lars Ben Johnson - Despite the confused name, he is not a confusing player. A classic box to box midfielder who provides spine to the midfield while also ranging forward when he wants to.
M: Avi Benbemore - He's the sephardic Avi Belmowitz, which makes him the Sephardic Alan Belmore. He will, at some point, score all the goals.
F: Tzvi ben Yochanan - Fast goalscoring forward. Known for his long runs where he's just onside near the last defender.
F: Yoni Flominon - Incredible passing skills has led to multiple assist titles in the Karakorum League for Flominon. Moved up to Alexandria and immediately got a starting position for Jasper's Creepers.
F: Dee Schneider - RF - Fast, tricky, good handles, scores a lot for his club. Finally got the starting nod for World Cup 90 over Mattityahu. Back on the bench after starting for a few WCs as a veteran presence, might come into start if the Warriors start to struggle.
F: Abby Goldshires - Outside striker who is known for her technical vision and skill. Still very young with a lot to work on.
F: Aiden McDavies - Has no idea what's he's doing here and we don't either. Will probably score all the goals.

Do whatever to my players.

[AOCAF]

AOCAF 69 :: 4/20 of Chaos

CHAOS DRAW ROUND 1 of 2

Valanora 2–1 Carpathia and Ruthenia 


Banija 0–1 North Handoria


Vilita and Turori 1–0 Romsten


Squornshelan Remnant States 1–1 Al-Tamazgha (1–1 AET) (3–0 pen.)


Commonwealth of Baker Park 2–4 Busoga Islands


Farfadillis 0–1 Jabal Akhdar


Kimi-Suomi 5–2 Tropicorp


Qasden 3–3 Canadian Dominion (5–4 AET)


Demot 3–3 Mlima Kijani (3–3 AET) (4–3 pen.)


Oontaz 1–0 Equestrian States


Pluvia and the Saxean Isles 2–4 Fort Mckinley


Gyatso-Kai 1–1 Milchama (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)

Ok, Calm Down. CHAOS DRAW ROUND 2 Will be in Approximately 48 hours from this post. Signups do remain open amidst the Chaos. Teams that won today will likely be playing each other. Teams that Lost will also play each other, roughly. Winning is good, losing is less good. This will be the final round of chaos.


Optional RP Challenge :: Neither your nation or your opponent could host this match. Convince another nation in the region to ICly host your first round of Chaos match and explain why they had to do it instead of your own nation.

[Busoga Islands]

Busoga Islands National Team

Information
Country code: BUS
Denonym: Busogans/Busoga Islanders/Islanders(Busoga Islanders is the formal term; many Banijans call them Busogans, while locals refer to themselves simply as Islanders, which will be the terminology used by the journalists of this country)
Association: Busoga Islander Soccer Association(BISA)
Manager: Mazen Duman. 56 years old. Busogan. Most recently assistant manager at Herzegovina City FC. 1st cycle in charge of the NT. First ever Busogan manager of this NT.
Senior Assistant Manager: Salem Opondo. 78 years old, male, native of Banija.
Captain: Delbin Kasekende Jr.
Alternate Captain: Hambani Chisoni.

RP Permissions
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod scoring events: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes
RP Injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss).
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss).
Godmod other events: Yes(However, all Busogan nationals, players or fans or whoever, are banned from catching a pandemic).
Style modifier: -3

Do whatever you want besides godmodding the actual goals, or give my players a pandemic(I prefer the actual goals to be real). Please do not kill any named characters(players, coaches, politicians, etc...) or their family members without my consent via TG. Unnamed fans dying in fan violence or something like that, however, is fine.

Jerseys
Jerseys designed by uni·q of Qusmo

Roster for AOCAF 69

Starters: 4-2-3-1.
The six professional clubs on the Busoga Islands are all part of the Banijan soccer pyramid.
Players who are receiving their first call-up during this tournament are italicized.
Players who do not play within the Banijan soccer pyramid are bolded.
BSL = Banijan Soccer League, the second from top-flight for Banija & the Busoga Islands.
S-FPL is the Shango-Fogoa Premier League, the joint top flight for Banija, Busoga Islands, and Farfadillis.
GK #1 Som Akarsu. 19 years old. Starter for Barmos United in the BSL. Male.
LB #4 Nazli Mehmet. 26 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the BSL. Female.
CB #5 Talet Ozen. 33 years old. Starter for Sororo City in the BSL. Male.
CB #3 Gunduz Koca. 22 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the BSL. Female.
RB #16 Hambani Chisoni. 29 years old. Starter for Istria City FC in the S-FPL. Male.
LCM #23 Ucanok Serif. 28 years old. Starter for the Hoima Warriors in the S-FPL. Male.
RCM #6 Delbin Kasekende Jr. 33 years old. Starter for Capitol City FC in the S-FPL. Son of former NT captain and the present President of the country, Delbin Kasekende. Male. Much more of a defensive midfielder. Captain. Male.
LAM #11 Ozkaya Tarhan. 29 years old. Starter for KItara AA in the S-FPL. Busogan/Equestrian dual-national. Plays much more of a False 9 role, as Tarhan plays in the #10 role at the club level. Male.
CAM #10 Turna Tosun. 23 years old. Starter for the Busembe Timberwolves in the BSL. Male.
RAM #7 Akyol Aslan. Age 29. Plays for Lakiska SC in the BSL. Male.
ST #9 Artem Kohut. 35 years old. Starter for the Hoima Warriors in the S-FPL. Busogan/Delaclav dual-national- switched his allegiance to the Busoga Islands following World Cup 87 Qualifying. Male.
Bench
GK #35 Algul Kas. Age 33. Starter for Kabakono City in the BSL. Female.
GK #23 Candan Karakus. Age 29. Starter for Jaribga Soccer Club in the BSL. Male.
RB #2 Uzsoy Aybar. Age 24. Comes off the bench for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL. Male.
CB #18 Sahin Alabora. Age 27. Starter for Igulu City FC in the BSL. Male.
CB #19 Ocan Kiyuka. Age 23. Comes off the bench for Busukuma AC in the S-FPL. Male.
LB #14 Umut Aygun. Age 19. Starter for Serizar FC in the Busogan National League. Female.
CM #6 Ogul Kirac. Age 26. Comes off the bench for Istria City FC in the S-FPL. Male.
CM #8 Cicek Aga. 36 years old. Plays for Ausharmuj Marusi in Farfadillis. Female. Much more of an attacking fielder than her counterpart.
RW #17 Zekeriya Tarhan. 21 years old. Starter for the Nezrouch Rovers in the Busogan National League. Male.
CAM #25 Leyla Gundogan. Age 22. Starter for Dukuma SC in the BSL. Female.
LW #39 Ishak Keles. Age 25. Starter for Umbazi Metropolitan SC in the BSL. Male.
ST #12 Cyprus Oludhe. 29 years old. Plays for the Herzegovina Phoenix in the BSL. Male.

Notes:
- Our free kicks are taken by Ozkaya Tarhan. Penalties are taken by Artem Kohut.
- In terms of substitutions, anybody is OK to substitute off the pitch besides Kasekende Jr. and Hambani Chisoni.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2023
Gals Behaving Badly: D'Amico. Vuckovic corrupt our Mindy
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Editor

The conclusion of the World Cup 93 cycle was a disappointment to everyone in the Baker Park National Team as the squad had felt like they were hitting their stride at just the right time. The departure of Manager Jennifer Prescott soon afterwards leaves the future of the team in limbo while a successor is found, but two players who knew that no matter how the tournament ended it would be their final bow left everything on the pitch in Bencoolen.

Nicole D'Amico and Christa Vuckovic are a part of the long line of great female midfielders that have contributed to the rise of Baker Park soccer in the mixed gender era; their individual careers have overlapped since the Olympic Team that competed in Banija, but for the purposes of Senior NT recognition, it began on the afternoon of the final day of qualifying for World Cup 86, when Ichi Tuzzio sent Prescott and an all-female squad to close out the fixture list away against West Angola, after Park had already clinched qualification.
It was Vuckovic's debut cap and just D'Amico's fourth time in a NT lineup after having become the third ever woman to get her maiden goal on her debut at the inaugural Mike Sarzo Invitational in Sarzonia.

Today, they stand 5th and 6th on the list of the most capped players in Baker Park National Team history, with D'Amico's 115 just one more than Vuckovic, both jumping past Junior Ngoba while in Tumbra.

“No doubt we should be ahead of One Trick Junior.” Oh dear. We've started off on a positive note.
“A show pony is all he ever really was. Horses for courses and all that, but he ran off to that shag carpet league as soon as he got the chance, didn't he?”

We're together at Michel's, a popular South Bank day spa, for some girl's day out bonding over wine and pedicures (and wine, did I mention that?); one of the first things that has to be understood is that together Vuckovic and D'Amico are an insult comedy duo without compare; their withering sarcasm about almost everyone they've played alongside is an act that they've honed over several World Cup cycles, but is in reality a front for their own easily evident humility, love of self-deprecation, and respect for those same teammates that they readily credit for reaching the heights of the sport.

A follow up call to Ngoba about a week after this interview confirms that he has heard all of it before.
“No, no, no!! You cannot let those evil shrews drink wine!” he mock yells into the phone when I give him a background on what was talked about. “You should've called me first, I could've warned you. They probably stuck you with the bill, didn't they?” (They did not.--ed.) Ngoba laughs heartily and refuses to use his equal time to correct the 'record'.
“I sometimes wonder why everyone who plays midfield for us (BP) is a nut case, then I forget about it when I realize everyone else probably thinks the same about me.” (laughs)

Both women are fiercely adamant that they are products of their upbringing—D'Amico raised in the Hannover suburb of Abingdon, while Vuckovic's formative years were spent in Creswell, about 28 miles west of New Bremen in the midst of the Mid-Com farm belt.

The former was a relative late bloomer as a player, signed by St Stephens Ladies after her graduation from Hannover North High School almost as an afterthought; she was the team MVP her senior season in which they finished with just 4 wins and 4 draws out of 17 played, but named to the all-county All Star match at the Fritz Schafer Stadium, where she scored a pair of goals and assisted on another to win the Most Outstanding Player award.
Steve's had offered her a part-time trainee contract after her sophomore season, which her parents considered desultory. “My dad was livid, because he thought I was better than I actually was. When I turned pro I had to have a heart to heart with him and say 'I can't have you dealing with my pro career'. It broke his heart, but he came around after a few months and realized I was right.”
_________________________________________________________________________________

“I asked one of the techies (at Tropicorp FC, the Vilitan Cove club she's played her entire professional career for) to calculate the precise distance between our childhood houses, and it turns out it is 88.3 miles in a straight line, but my house is only 300 feet south of hers,” Vuckovic explains as an introductory fun fact into their friendship.

Vuckovic was already on the radar of the Player Development staff at Birkenfeld—much to her surprise—because she'd been recommended by a local scout as a 14 year old but never had been invited to a trial camp where potential youth team prospects are put through their paces. She was cold called on a Saturday mid-morning after having been out “until...after midnight (laughs) who knows? Nobody wore watches where I came from.” (laughs)
“They don't have to, there's a damn clock on every building in the damn town!” D'Amico retorts.

Jen Prescott—who had been the U17/U19 Women's boss for Pam Scott for several years and who'd agreed to be a hand-holding assistant for a second inexperienced male youth coach at the SWC 7 U18 World Cup, who ended up being her Assistant Manager Darren Kirby—made a very polite but insistent request to Tiff Vuckovic to have her daughter made available to speak to the FAC Player Development Director sooner rather than later.
“Oh my God. Tiff might've stroked out right there if Jen hadn't been so breezy and nice! (laughs) They've been the best of friends since that day. It's one of the few times I remember my mom literally screaming at me--'get up, the FAC are on the phone!'.” (laughs)
She was one of five players brought into the U18 squad as 16 year-olds for SWC 7 that became the foundation of the second Under-18 Championship side in Siovanija & Teusland, which culminated with Head of State Michael Gregson handing her the trophy as captain on the day, the reminder of which brings a genuine tear to her eye.

“That was literally the last match I played as Christa Vuckovic from Creswell, Baker Park. The next time I kicked a ball was in the Hinodejian Empire.”
_______________________________________________________________________________
“They have way too much time on their hands in Tropicorp. (laughs) Were there training matches between the national team and the club? We only ever faced the Cocoabos that one time (AOCAF 62, in the first playoff round), and you seemed to scare them to death,” D'Amico leads the conversation into a direction that she certainly already knows what's coming.
“Did they bring the All-Star team from the rest of Squornshelous to train against your reserves just once or was it twice a week?”
“Well I was First Team All-Star, so I would've been playing against my reserves like I always did, Coco-Christy.”

AOCAF 62 was a seminal event in both of their international careers, as well as the friendship they share today. Both were playing domestically overseas within the region but outside of the 'mainstream' of the rest of the NT foreign contingent; there was still a learning curve that each had to negotiate.

D'Amico's 'late bloomer' rise coincided with the decision to break the National League's Conference off as a strictly mixed gender league with no promotion or relegation and only entry to the FAC Cup as the knockout alternative.
Many of the charter members were the result of WNL Second Division sides that operated as part of National League members that were in the Third Division, Conference or the FAC Shield consolidating efforts to get ahead of the expected 'future' National League that would be mixed gender across all competitions.

“I'd gotten into Steve's first team squad pretty quickly. I literally grew about 2 inches between the start of the calendar year and the rookie camp in July and gained about 10 pounds without even realizing it”, D'Amico recalled about her first encounter at St Stephen's Ladies FC training ground.

“You'd have only gained five pounds if you didn't eat a loaf of bread every other day.” Vuckovic hasn't looked up from her phone but a half smile has curled the right side of her face.
“Tiff will be very unhappy that you've stooped to such a low blow to hurt my feelings.”
“She's my mom, I'm an only child. This too shall pass.” Vuckovic gives another half smile while D'Amico shows a similar half smile.

Vuckovic had taken a circuitous route to her professional debut after SWC 9, accepting a full four year scholarship to Tsutsuji University in the Hinodjian Empire—where the national university league was considered the best in the multiverse—despite her own personal reservations about her own educational ability.

“I think that going to Siovanija (for SWC 9) between the end of school and going to Tsutsuji (she says it 'soo-soo') was maybe the best thing that could've happened, because I didn't have time to sit around and be nervous about going off a million miles away from my family. So I show up at U with my farm girl naivete but this very cool winners medal and big photo of me accepting the trophy so I sort of became a bit of a celebrity on my res hall floor from the start and they put me in with another foreign student and two locals who spoke fluent English, even better than Nic.”

“I never had specific lessons, it was all just natural talent for me.”

“And of course my name gave everyone fits because it's got about every consonant sound that is totally alien to Japanese speakers. I heard it over the PA for the first time and wondered if I was having a stroke. (Laughing, she raises the pitch of her voice) 'Attention, Attention. Student Clistia Vunigcami-san, come to window 12. Clistia Vunjicata-san' (laughs) They never same it same way twice in a row for the entire first year. When I got comfortable enough to speak more at length in the language, I always made it clear to the faculty, the people you deal with all the time, that 'Kista Vuji-san' was fine, I even started to write it in script next to my name.”

Her move to Tropicorp after her accolade filled collegiate career felt like paid vacation at first. “I'm thinking 'what this all about? 26 matches over 7-8 months, or you kidding me?' but once I realize that 2/3 of the damn league plays IFCF and you can easily get another 10-15 fixtures just on that, plus some cups ties.”

The numbers don't lie—D'Amico has around 400 more club appearances than Vuckovic despite the fact that they are only about 2 ½ years apart in age; Tsutsuji played 46 matches per season during Vuckovic's career, while Hannover United in the first season of the National Conference played 42 league fixtures.
_________________________________________________________________________
“Oh is it my turn now Mindy?” I've known Nicole longer professionally than I have Christa, despite the fact I crossed paths with the latter on the beat far more often; let's get into the dramatic Second Act of the show, shall we?

“After AO 62, you both were included in the nuts & bolts conversations of where the team were heading as the WC 87 cycle approached a lot more than you'd been in the past but minutes were still hard to come by with AB, Ni...”
“Who?”
“B what?”
“Annabeth...West..moreland...?”
They look at one another for a few seconds with shrugs, eyebrows raised, finally D'Amico throwing up her hands in confusion.
“Never heard of her.
“Have zero idea of who that is.”

I'll spare the audience the next 10 minutes of the talk, as the pair riff on nearly every teammate they have been a part of NT squads alongside with in much the same manner; the occasional flash of recognition by one or the other is usually an unflattering remembrance.
It's D'Amico and Vuckovic, and all of the Little People who've come along for the ride.

It's the worst act in the world. Would not recommend. 0/5 Stars.

I'd like to redirect you to the opening grafs to refresh your memory before you continue from this point.
____________________________________________________________________________

“Benoit, I think we might need some advice on something that's a little more...naughty?...for our next bottle. Une faire pourriez-vous suggestion, s'il vous plait?”
Vuckovic mangles French sentence structure like about 50% of the population does; Benoit is our concierge this day, assigned to cater to our whims. He's a nice young man of about 25 with an intermittent southeast lilt I recognize from my time in Lynchana.

“Speaks four languages, one of them extremely bad. (laughs) Mindy, I'm hiding a number of fingers behind my head, guess how many.”
“Three”
D'Amico throws three fingers over the top of head. “White, fruity, on Coco-Christy's bill, s'il vous plait.”

The way they were utilized over the past couple of cycles brought forth speculation that they didn't get along, that they are kept apart in separate international break squads because there was a personality conflict that developed.

“Are we here getting our footsies done up together, Beryl?”
“It appears so, Collette.”

The reference to the love/hate relationship portrayed in the popular NTS period tele-drama “Agony Aunts”, featuring spinster half-sisters that channel their particular opposing feelings and beliefs into teaming up to solve crimes in boom-town Lima of 1906-07 is beyond obvious satire at this point (we've started on the second full bottle since our arrival, plus we were welcomed with a taste from a leftover bottle from an earlier client); the clear intent of Prescott, Darren Kirby & Tony Weiss to attempt to build a dual lineup system that was centered around the pair individually as the keystone to both teams from as early as WC89.

D'Amico crashes directly into the conversation about the way things started to break out with the rise of the 'Third Wave' of Development Charter products. “We started to get a lot of individualized attention from the National Team staff, especially in the lead-up to periods where we'd be spending time in camp. We'd have video chats with Tony or Hailey or Jen or others on the staff and talk about specific tactical things that were under review.”

“Obviously it was just the midfield they would have these tutorials with, because what are ya gonna tell strikers? 'Jump high. Hit ball with head. Fall down.' That's not proper soccer, is it?”
D'Amico shakes her head vigorously.

“There's a lot of promising data coming through about the success of the 4-6-0. Surround the box and fire at will.”
“Maybe I should have a talk with the Executive Board of Tropicorp that they make me the manager of the national team, I could teach that 4-6-0 and the Cocoa-bo are perfect for that style.”

“...That's not really true, is it?”

“In theory, no. Buzz Kilmore.” (laughter)
___________________________________________________________________________

There's nothing in my memory that I can relate to the feelings that you experience during a proper total foot therapy session: washing, scrubbing, light massage, deep massage, another washing/scrubbing round followed by a soaking, finished off with nail care.
Doing it alongside two friends that are funny, open, comfortable talking about anything between themselves and around the rest of the party present—our personal attendants that normally would be the drivers of the conversation, Benoit the host who is clearly going places, Kelly Tobias the photographer from the Sporting Times that I actually excluded from a period in the middle of the interview but rewarded him at the end with the final shot of our finished pedicure product—as well as another shot of everyone mentioned above also putting their best foot forward.

We touch briefly upon the opening couple of seasons for each as pros playing in foreign nations.

“A lot of the pool were playing in leagues that were better or at least more competitive than the ones we were in”, D'Amico starts out as a cautionary tale.
“I was overwhelmed when they announced the (Galacticos) Long List with me on it. Everyone (from Baker Park) before me were in the top 5 or 6 leagues, and yes we'd really shown our strength at Damogran, but the people who make those determinations focus on your individual play relative to the performance of the entire side.”

I related the story of a Squornshelan journalist contacting me after her first season there, saying D'Amico's play was a revelation not just to the club but the entire league and asking me if she'd always been so good during her time in BP.

“I have to sort of hem and haw my way through, because honestly, I don't know what to say. I saw you play for Hannover a few times, but since I'm mainly writing about the NT and the youth teams, it was hard for me to put your ability into perspective.”

It surprises a lot of casual supporters to find out that D'Amico's sum total of age-group experience was 2 appearances in DBC 44 and a later place on the Women's Team that played at the Olympics, where she was one of the Over-23 selections. She didn't play in the U18's or in the 21's after that one callup at 19.

“Like I said earlier, I kind of feel like I was a later bloomer. Miss Golden Child here (Vuckovic) was a prodigy and I didn't really hit my stride until right around that (DBC squad appearance) point. But you can't worry about stuff like that in hindsight; I didn't get all misty eyed when I wasn't called in for the next two times I was eligible (for the 21's) because I was playing a lot for Steve's then United.”

Vuckovic is the only player currently on the list of top 10 caps for the U18/U21's and the senior side, having appeared in 21 of the 30 matches played by those squads over the six years in which she was part of the youth setup.
“It was great while I was in high school, but at Soo-Soo we had waayyy too many fixtures, it was like a year round season. Of course you didn't play every one, because there was sort of like a Varsity/JV breakdown, I bet we had 40 players in the squad every year I was there.”
“Weren't they league champs when you got there and got worse every year after that?” D'Amico says that in such a breezy, happy tone that even I miss it until I listen to the recording later.

“I suppose that can be placed squarely on my shoulders as I was supposed to be CMB of the entire Hinode Empire Collegiate universe. That's definitely on me.”

“Were you? They sure didn't do their homework if that's what they thought they were getting.”

They snipe at one another so easily and calmly that you almost pay no attention to it; the mixed gender era in Baker Park has been the catalyst for many unlikely friendships within the National Team that often were the result from tenuous links at the start: Lorenzo Taborn & Veronica Navarro; Kelly O'Donnell & Lainey Wadsworth; Daniel Pryor & Ayana West along with Alicia Craig; Sarah Foreman & Emily Arnold; Trent Yeomans & Amanda Hayes; Tracy Vasillias & Derick Briggs; Marcus Nolan & Jessica LeClair, to name several.
But there is no mistaking that they are fast friends and act like sisters that have known one another their entire lives.

In the aftermath, I've stayed behind to talk to the people who have been absolutely wonderful to us (and although I'm sure other two will include a generous gratuity to the bill, I tip all three of our pedicurists and Benoit an extra cash amount on my personal behalf and that of the Sporting Times) to maybe give them a chance to say something—off the record—about the afternoon. 'Cindy' says with a laugh, “I have (----) sisters and I love them dearly but I don't know if we'd still be speaking after a similar session. We get so many 'girls day out' customers that you usually can tune out most of what's being said, but I genuinely enjoyed listening in on this conversation.”

'Benoit' laughs that I've pegged his accent, although I guess the wrong borough he's really from (“that's too funny. You have a really good ear!”), but he makes me feel good that my story idea has an audience beyond the hardcore supporter.
“I follow the national team during the World Cup, but I'm not a huge soccer fan. I obviously know they are great players and legends but it was so much fun to be able to see how they interact, how they are such good friends. Someone like me, I don't give any thought that these players that you really only know by name have friendships like all of us. You are really lucky to have a chance to know them in the same way but not like name-dropping bragging like I hear sometimes. 'Oh, my friend knows (-----) and we got to go to a party because they mentioned they knew her.' I definitely want to read what you write, not just because I was here, but because it's cool to see famous people just being real.”

He thought I was “famous people” enough to ask for a pic together, which brought the afternoon to a perfect conclusion.

[Kimi-Suomi]

Mitä helvettiä täällä tapahtuu? One day, the squad for our AOCAF 69 was announced with Maria Tuominen the only addition to our starting 11, Karl Leif Svonsson the new player on the bench a lot of talent going to clubs abroad...and then we were told that we have to play two seeding games before the AOCAF Group Draw, with the 1st in 3 days time. This caused fucking chaos but in the end, we just about managed to secure a small venue in Aboveland to host this 1st game. Why Ylämaan? Because we couldn't book anywhere back home and we promised the hosts half the gate receipts and a crate of our famous vodka if they could host this game...and so, that's how we ended up here.

We were taking on the Tropicorp Techies in this game and oh boy, this sudden fixture turned out to be entertaining. We would strike first through a 20-minute brace from Valtteri Nordström, but the Techies would get one back before halftime thanks to Ashlyn Kojici. The second half would begin with Nordström completing his hattrick and while Narya Kaiakay would add a 2nd to the Techie tally, goals from Teemu Räikkönen and Mika Noronen would ensure this game was heading only one way. Kimi-Suomi beats Tropicorp 5-2 in Ylämaan - what a fucking headline.

Our next opponent...well, we don't know who they are yet - but we do know it will be one of the other teams who win in this 1st seeding round. So...Valanora, Pohjois-Handorinen [North Handoria], Vilita ja Turori [Vilita and Turori], Squornshelanin Jäännösvaltiot [Squornshelan Remnant States], Busoga Saaret [Busoga Islands], Jabal Akhdar, Qasden, Demot, Oontaz Dert Li Ng, Mckinleyn Linnoitus [Fort Mckinley] or Gyatso-Kai? We will play one of those 11. No matter what, we will have to be ready for anything...literally this time. NOSTA KUIN HUUHKAJAT!

[Milchama]

Alexandria Times-Tribune-Sun-Moon-Sky-Picayune-Courier-Post-Pre-Forward-Current-Reader

Sports Section

Administrative Mistake Leads to First AOCAF Game Being Played in Geisenfried

Not many in the MFA were confused when Milchama's Game of Chaos against Gyatso-Kai was asked to be played in a stadium that hosted World Cup 32. After all Milchama hosted World Cup 32 and still had at least one stadium, the Alexandria National Stadium, still operational this seemed like a pretty easy thing to do. Moreover, the Gyatso-Kai FA giving the Warriors homefield advantage seemed like a big mistake since there was no clear home team and so Milchama gladly took up the offer. Of course nobody told the Dancougar Intern who was in charge of making sure that Milchama actually hosted the game in Milchama. After a few phone calls with the Geisenfried FA this insightful Dancougar Intern had somehow managed to secure Crown Stadium in Konigseifert which hosted the World Cup 32 Championship Match for the game between Gyatso-Kai and Milchama.

The calls been placed, the pre-sale tickets sold, and people in Konigseifert being pretty excited since Geisenfried was not participating in this AOCAF it was too late to call off the game and move it to either Milchama or Gyatso-Kai. The Dancougarian Intern was fired, which is the natural life cycle of all Dancougar Interns and speaks very poorly of many people in the MFA, but I digress. The match would be played in Crown Stadium in Geisenfried on neutral territory for no good reason.

As for the game itself, the experimental Milchamian lineup kept on doing Vaudevillian antics in the middle of the match. Sometimes to the detriment of the team, as when Of was yanked off the field by a giant hook, leading to an unmarked Gyatso-Kai striker to score to make it 1-0 in the first half. However, when Why appeared out of a hat pulled by Who it led to an easy 2 on 1 attack that led to Milchama's game tying goal in the second half.

The largest problem with the Warriors, per coach Abbot, was communication on the field "It's really hard to communicate when it's unclear who is asking a question and who is calling a player. I wish the guys would go by different names but they've all said this is what they want to be called and we're not about to get into a whole dead name discussion on a soccer pitch" Abbot was immediately yanked away by a giant hook before any other questions could be asked. It was unfortunate because making all 5 subs right before the penalty shootout and then having only those subs take kicks was certainly an unconventional choice that we'll never be able to hear about. So it goes. Hopefully Milchama can recover from this weird debacle and win the next game.

[Gyatso-kai]

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Gyatso-kai National Football Team
‘The Bisons’

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┤ GENERAL INFORMATION ├

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Official Name: Gyatso-kai Men’s National Football Team / 凯海洋国家足球队 (Kaihaiyáng Guójia Zúqiú Duì) / Gyats'kai Tsad droten Taab’rugam
Official Nation Name: The Avatarian Republics of Gyatso-kai / 凯海洋降世神通共和国 (Kaihaiyáng Jiàngshì Shéntong Gònghéguó) / Tsad Gyats'kai Jettise
Country Code: GKI
Officiating League: The Republic Premier Football League (RPFL)
Founded: 1876 (228 AKy)
Regional Officiating Body: The Atlantian Oceania Confederation of Association Football (AOCAF)
Year of Membership: 2019.2 (63 AAg)
Records:
AOCAF:17-8-24 (WDL)
World Cup: 191-78-121
All-Time: 210-86-148
Under Wong Haru: 52-22-47
Titles: 0
Rank:
AOCAF:[i] 10th (After AOCAF LXVI)
[i]World Cup: 89th (WC XCII)
Nickname: Bisons
Style: +3.0 out of 5.0

When RP'ing, the name of my players in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS AND BOLD are the player's family names. These are the names on their jersey and the name professional commentators would call out when making observations. If you have any further questions regarding names, please feel free to telegram me.

Players age ONE YEAR in-between cups.

Starting players will have their names in GREEN type
Alternate players will have their names in BLUE type
Reserve Players will have their names in STANDARD type.
Travelling Players will be in tables.

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┤ THE ROSTER ├

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44- HAMADA Roshi
Height: 181cm - Weight: 90kg – Age: 27 years old - Team: Concord Dusk AFC

After signing a three year, ¥15 million contract with Concord Dusk AFC, Hamada Roshi has essentially made it as a goalkeeper in Gyatso-kai. Coming onto Concord Dusk to backup the aging Kjotvi Bar’kad is no easy assignment, however, with most analysts seeing Bar’kad retiring sooner rather than later, Hamada may see himself starting for the Black & Gold.

A player who developed an odd style in the Fire Nation, Hamada is known for stepping way in front of the net and attempting to use his physique to stop an offensive player before getting to the ball. Many attribute this odd quirk to Hamada and his twin brother Yoshi having grown up playing ice hockey; whereas Roshi would go on to find his love in football, his brother Yoshi continues to attract scouts on the ice at the University of Kyoko in the Fire Nation. Equally adept at his position as a younger Kio’los, the 2021.3 Campaign has already seen Hamada start in net twice for the Bisons; during the first victory over Ko-oren and the nil-all draw against Mertagne.

Starting World Cup XC as the backup to Armok Hikari, Hamada earned the starting position after a pair of losses which saw Armok pulled. In his first start of the campaign, Armok saved 27 shots on net and allowed zero goals against Omerica, and would go on to a 4-1-1 record for the World Cup before a stomach bug would take him out for the remainder of the tournament. After Armok retook the starting position, though, the Bisons fell flat, losing three straight matches to end the tournament on a sour note.

This resulted in Hamada gaining the starting position in both the Cup of Harmony as well as the last AOCAF. During those tournaments, Hamada managed a 5-4 record, and with only one game where he allowed more than 2 goals into the net. This performance solidified him as the new starter for the Bisons, which saw Hamada make quite the showing for an Avatarian keeper – 12-2-6 in World Cup XCI.

Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: A - Form: C
CAPS: 79 :: GOALS: N/A :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 62-68, WC 87-93, CoH 82, Eagles Cup XI

22- ARMOK Hikari
Height: 177cm - Weight: 80kg – Age: 31 years old - Team: Southern AFC

Entering into his ninth season with Southern AFC, Armok Hikari has continued to improve and grow when compared to his days back at the University of Omashu. Having taken over for Zhao Baoli since his retirement following World Cup 85, Armok has proven time and time again that he is set to be another storied goalkeeper for the Bisons.

Unlike his predecessor who favored sniping mid-range clears, Armok tends to favor the long-range kicks out to midpitch so as to clear as much action from the back end as possible. Also, Armok is a much more traditional goalkeeper when compared to the very ball-heavy play styles of the former starter for the Bisons; he firmly believes that his primary goal is to stop balls from getting to the net, and by clearing out the attacking zone quickly, it gives him a chance to set the team up more defensively as he does tend to hand over possession often, but that allows him to focus on the main job of stopping balls and not worrying about diving out of the box and going for more ‘flashy’ plays.

After a depressing World Cup performance, Armok was taken from the Starting XI and placed on backup. Winning just one match in World Cup XC, Armok would lose seven games and fall out of favor with then-Interim Head Coach Wong Haru. During the last Cup of Harmony and AO Cup, Armok would not see a single start, with many calling into question his continued selection to the national team. Expect to see the former starter seeing very little to any action this World Cup.

A steep fall from grace often leaves a bitter taste in the mouth…

Rating: B- - Team Relationship: B- - Morale: C - Form: B
CAPS: :: 108 GOALS: N/A :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 61-65, 67, WC 85-93, CoH 79, Eagles Cup XI

31- LEE Findao
Height: 191cm - Weight: 94kg – Age: 25 years old - Team: Royal Flames

An incredibly young and underdeveloped player – at least in terms of multi-verse play – Lee Findao took the Avatarian Football world by surprise when it was announced after The Combine that they would be taking the Reserve Position on the National Team ahead of suspected replacement Pao Lishin. Such a surprise that on the day the rosters were set to be announced, Lee had already packed themselves up and was boarding a transport out of the National Sports Complex.

Not the most confident way to start your journey to the AOCAF Cup…

With a collegiate style typical of players his size – wide stance, quick to try and muscle defenders out of the ball, and making saves from deep out of the net – we can only hope that has time goes on, Lee will continue to mature under the tutelage of Nishimura on the National Team. Though, with the fall of Armok Hikari from the graces of the Starting XI, we saw Lee gain his first appearance on the National Team, subbing in for Hamada after he began to experience stomach cramps in the eventual 4-2 loss against Valanora. Facing twelve shots, Lee only allowed one in, which unfortunately was the game-winning goal that sent the team home early.

Nothing he could have done…

Rating: C+ - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: C
CAPS: 5 :: GOALS: N/A :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 66, World Cup 93

Travelling With the Team

Name		Age		Team					Nation              .
PAO Lishin	25		Mando FC				Earth
TSUTSAMA Yen	22		Keldabe FC			Fire
TSUNADE Ki’sae	21		Kyoshi State University			Mandalorian

As had been done under Vhett, Head Coach Tay’haai has instituted a Travelling Corps so as to bring young and upcoming players along with the Bisons to show them what Multiverse Play is all about. Pao Lishin, still a bit bitter about being passed over last World Cup and now for AOCAF, is a surprise to see return on the travelling corps. Last campaign, it was reported that Pao spent most of the practice days away from the other members of the goalkeeping unit; in the weeks leading up to the AOCAF Cup, it is being reported he is talking more with Goalkeeping Coach Nishimura Kenshin.

Tsutsama Yen, is a relative newcomer to the multiverse; having a somewhat average season at UA, he came to the National Team tryouts before World Cup 87 and put up some impressive physical numbers through the Combine, and thus found his way onto the Corps. Showing great promise as a younger player, he signed on with Gaoling Union after graduation and has already begun to cement himself as a strong back-up to franchise keeper Mit Wasan’i

With the promotion of Lee Findao to Reserve, the third spot on the Corps was awarded to Tsunade Kise, a young Mandalorian keeper out of Kyoshi State. At 21-years-of-age, he is set to graduate following this campaign cycle, though it is uncertain where he will wind up. Tsunade has shown a similar style to the former Bison Aki Kio’los, and of the three members of the Travelling Corps, he is the most likely to see promotion.

Left Defenders:
16- TERCAR Shuajo
[i]Height: 180cm - Weight: 84kg – Age: 31 years old - Team: Mando FC

Tercar Shuajo, who signed a four-year contract with Mando FC after graduating from Northern University, has added 8kg to his frame in muscle, yet still retains his speed. A very quick and agile defender, Tercar uses his feet and agility to outmaneuver most other players instead of relying on sheer mass to take away a ball, a tactic he learned from pairing with Itawaku during exhibition games prior to World Cup 86.

Now into his fourth campaign as starting defender, Tercar is looking to further cement himself into the team. With both Hashimoto Isamiru and Somchai Kikwan both growing older with every passing game, soon it may be time for Tercar to take his speed and agility to the centre of the pitch. Tercar bares the distinction of being one of only two players to score a goal during the last AOCAF – the lone goal against Vilita & Turori on the opening day of the tournament.

Unfortunately for Tercar, an upper body strain took him out of World Cup XC for four games, as well as the four games of AOCAF 66. He did not play in World Cup XCI and XCII, and given the average performance of the defence during XCIII, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Haru call him up at AOCAF.
Rating: B- - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: C
CAPS: 109 :: GOALS: :: 26 TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 63-66, WC 86-90, 93, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

12- PAM Kai
Height: 183cm - Weight: 86kg – Age: 29 years old - Team: Senlin Timbers

Formerly the backup to the Beast of the North, Pam Kai spent five tournaments in the shadow of Itawaku, hoping to one day earn the starting spot from him or to replace him. However, at the tryout camp, it was Tercar Shuajo who shined, and received the Starting Spike from Tay’haai. Following another lackluster season in Senlin, Pam has shown himself to be a perennial backup defender; though this time, he has been kicked out of the limelight by a former classmate and teammate of his from Northern University… One has to wonder how that will play out during the tournament.

Rating: B+ - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A
CAPS: 123 :: GOALS: 32 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59, 61-68,WC 84-93, CoH 79, 82

26 – Khánh KA’LOMI
Height: 190cm - Weight: 94kg – Age: 27 years old - Team: Island FC

A young Southern Watertribesman who signed a professional contract with Island FC at just 20-years-of-age, Khánh Ka’lomi is already making waves in the Avatarian sports community. With an impressive size for such a young player, many see him as the next Itawaku, and some have already started calling him “The Beast of the South”. In his first season at Island FC, Ka’lomi put up impressive numbers for a defencemen; ending his season with the highest involvement in goals by a defender with 2 goal and 7 assists to go with 6 clean sheets.

In World Cup XC, an upper body strain for Tercar Shuajo would see Ka’lomi moved into the Starting XI, and given the performance of Tercar following that strain – as well as him sitting out the last two tournaments – it seems likely that Wong has decided to trust the youthful Watertribesman to fill in and to succeed Pam Kai on the left side.

Not sure how Pam is going to take this one…

Rating: B- - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: C
CAPS: 101 :: GOALS: 19 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 62-67, WC 87-93, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

Central Defenders
5- HASHIMOTO Isamiru
Height: 178cm - Weight: 75kg – Age: 40 years old - Team: Ba Sing Se UNITED

One of the most highly-rated player for the Bison defence, Hashimoto Isamiru, or “Hashi” as he is loving called by fans, has shown himself to be a very valuable asset to the team. A strong defensive player who often falls in to a full-back position, Hashimoto has made great strides in improving his passing and marking skills since he was traded to Ba Sing Se UNITED from Keldabe FC after a very disappointing season which saw Kelabe not advance to the playoffs for the first time in five years.

However, as time as worn on, so too as age on Hashimoto. Having turned 40 just before AOCAF 69, many have been calling for Hashi to step down gracefully and retire for several campaigns. However, in multiple interviews through consecutive campaigns, Hashimoto has given no sign of slowing down or even stepping down.

Five goals in the last World Cup proves he still has it.

Rating: A – Team Relationship: A – Morale: A – Form: A
CAPS: 227 :: GOALS: 65 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-67,WC 84-87, 90-93, CoH 76, 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

15- UTHAN A’den
Height: 185cm - Weight: 83kg – Age: 28 years old - Team:FC Beijing

A large and physically imposing player, Uthan A’den does not play a very physical game like Auranaq or Hashimoto, but instead proves himself to be one of the fastest players on the team; one who uses that speed to outpace and overtake many of his opponents. Less prove to tackle and trip, and more likely to simply run up from behind and steal the ball mid-dribble, expect to see Uthan engaging opponents closer to the net than you will be comfortable with from previous Bisons campaigns.

Having reached his century mark during the 6-2 win at home against The Juniper Union during World Cup 88 – and also scoring his first multiverse hat trick – Uthan became one of the youngest players to reach the milemark, following in the footsteps of Akiyama Qiangyu and Bralor Kotyc’e to reach a century before 25.

And given his presence, Uthan is expected to play for a very long time.

Rating: A- - Team Relationship: B - Morale: A - Form: A
CAPS: 220 :: GOALS: 69 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59- 67,WC 84-93, CoH 76, 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

15- Ganham Ri’om
Height: 175cm - Weight: 70kg – Age: 29 years old - Team: Concord Dusk AFC

Though not as fast as Uthan, Ganham Ri’om is a full-back more focused on the offence, who uses his skill with the ball to often drive the offence from the backfield. Though Ganham can have some minor difficulties when tasked with defence (given that he played his entire career at Hatsu State as a offensive midfielder before switching to defence when drafted), he is a very dedicated player and works hard to improve where he knows there are weakness.
Rating: B+ - Team Relationship: B - Morale: A - Form: B
CAPS: 90 :: GOALS: 30 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-60, 64-67,WC 84-93, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

Right Defenders:

3- SOMCHAI Kikwan
Height: 187cm - Weight: 83kg – Age: 37 years old - Team: Itakawai City

While certainly not the oldest player in the defence, Somchai Kikwan does serve as the counterpoint to Uthan’s youthful excitement. Having graduated from Kyoshi State, Somchai is very familiar to the style of play Uthan is used to, and the two of them communicate very well on the side of the field. Very adept at playing the middle of the field, when pushed to the right side, Somchai is quick to adapt and has the endurance and stamina to keep up with the demands.

Having made his multiverse debut in World Cup 85, Somchai has continued to play through a nagging lower body injury up until World Cup 90; utlising traditional medicine as well as playing an on-off schedule which allowed Huang Aodhan and Taoru Adeen to garnish some of the limelight, Somchai has made a full return to the line-up, and will likely break the century-and-a-half mark during this campaign.

Rating: A – Team Relationship: A – Morale: A – Form: A
CAPS: 168 :: GOALS: 53 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 63-67, WC 85-93, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

23- HUANG Aodhán
Height: 183cm - Weight: 84kg – Age: 31 years old - Team: Makapu ERUPT

With Mi’rez Yiman retiring, Huang Aodhán would find himself moving up on the list of right defenders. Signed onto a Taap-A team right out of college, Huang was quick to mature and found his way onto the Makapu ERUPT three season ago. A quick study, he adapted well to his new team and soon made it to their starting eleven. Huang is a natural athlete, with impressive speed and stamina to match, and we can expect to see that natural athleticism on display as the tournament wears on and fatigue sets into the Starting Eleven.
Rating: B – Team Relationship: B – Morale: B – Form: B
CAPS: :: 100 GOALS: 24 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 60-67, WC 84-93, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

15 – Tarou ADEEN
Height: 189cm - Weight: 90kg – Age: 29 years old - Team: Royal Flames

With the retirement of a couple of the Bisons’ core defenders, the Travelling Corps has produced another potential feature player in the form of Tarou Adeen. A product of both the Royal Fire Developmental Programs as well as serving under the tutelage of Fujimoto Zhong at Omashu State, Adeen is sure to see his number called in future tournaments, especially as players like Somchai continue to add years to their career. Though, unlike Somchai, Adeen brings more size to the right; standing at just under 190cm and weighs a little under 90kg. Combine that size with his speed and vision on the pitch, and you have a defender who can knock an opponent off course and redirect a ball to a forward without even lifting his head from his target. As with others in the lower levels of the team, expect to see Adeen as the tournament progresses.
Rating: B+ – Team Relationship: B – Morale: A – Form: B
CAPS: 30 :: GOALS: 7 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 65-66, 68 WC 88-91, 93, CoH 79, 82

Travelling With the Team

Position	Name		Age		School / Team			Nation                |
RD		KATO Zhao Ling	23		Enceri FC			Mandalorian	
RD		YAMADA Goro	22		Ba Sing Se UNITED 		Fire
CD		ZHOU Hiroto	22		Concord Dusk AFC		Earth

The Travelling Corps for Defense is all small trio of defenders who are all potential future Bisons.

Kato Zhao Ling, who graduated from Enceri University and signed an entry-level two-year contract with FC She Pass, is coming off his first RPFL All-Star selection and a third-place finish in the 2021.1 Season, having been traded to Enceri FC before the end of his contract and signing on an entry-level single-year bridge pending the conclusion of the 2021.3 Season. Yamato Goro surprised the football world upon graduation, having signed with Ba Sing Se over Itakawai; Yamato is certainly being watched to replace either of the aging defencemen in Hashimoto and Somchai. Zhou Hiroto, who helped Kibago University win their third consecutive Earthen Shield tournament in five years, also is vying for an eventual spot on the national roster after signing an entry-level two-year contract with Concord Dusk AFC.

Defensive Midfielders:

7- TAKAHASHI Hikaru
Height: 178cm - Weight: 76kg – Age: 42 years old - Team: Northern AFC

A strong defensive midfielder. Takahashi Hikaru’s strength lies in his kicks; easily able to send a ball soaring across the pitch with surprising accuracy, Takahashi is known for feeding the ball to the strikers and catching many opposing defences off-guard. He often has great vision, and he is easily able to read the play and can adapt accordingly.

Now, Takahashi has to step into a new role, as the oldest player on the team. With the retirement of so many of his fellow over-30 players, some feel the pressure is on Takahashi to produce more in this upcoming World Cup Campaign… or hang up the Number Seven jersey for the last time. Though, given his performance during World Cup XC and XCI, it is likely Takahashi will continue to play. After all, he is the first player in the Modern Era to achieve a double-century in caps; specifically as he took the pitch against Zeta Reka & Hufeltaldom, and scoring the only goal of the match for the Bisons.

Rating: S – Team Relationship: S – Morale: A – Form: A
CAPS: 230 :: GOALS: 88 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-66,WC 84-91, 93, CoH 75, 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

6- MA Haijiang
Height: 187cm - Weight: 85kg – Age: 37 years old - Team: Northern AFC

Former Head Coach Tay’haai made the unusual selection of having both of his defensive midfielders come from the same team, for reasons most can ascertain…. And it’s a decision that Head Coach Wong Haru continued with. A proven veteran on the pitch, Ma Haijiang complements Takahashi’s strong kicks and accuracy with the speed to overcome most opponents; if he can not strike a ball deep, Takahashi will often send a volley up to Ma who will then run it into the offensive zone before lasering the ball to an open forward. Expect to see either Ma or Takahashi in the assist column for plenty of goals.

Though, now with both players into their 30s, and many calling for younger blood to take the reigns, one has to wonder how much longer the ‘Northern Duo’ will continue to play together… or worse, who will be the first to retire… Yet, earning his double-century just five games after Takahashi’s – a 2-nil game against Bears Armed – seems to have energized the older midfielder. And with a stomach bug taking Takahashi out of three games, Ma has pulled ahead in the all-time lead for caps.
Rating: A- – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 233 :: GOALS: 61 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-68,WC 84-90, 92-93, CoH 76, 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

17- YOSHIDA Arata
Height: 177cm - Weight: 80kg – Age: 33 years old - Team: Royal Flames

Yoshida Arata is a dedicated player who has worked incredibly hard to make his way to the national team; having spent several months training with one of the greatest Avatarian midfielders to ever play the game, Bralor Kotyc’e. Time spent with Bralor has proven to greatly improve his game, seeing Yoshida climb up the ranks during the Trials for the national team. Though he has predominantly been a backup for his entire career thirteen tournaments, Arata has managed to amass ninety-two caps, and given the length of the Cup of Harmony, expected to reach the century during it. The only question will be whether he reaches that mark as a substitution or as a starter.

Though, Yoshida is not a player you will often notice. He is not one for showboating, and very rarely makes a goal or garnishes an assist. Instead, he focuses his time on the pitch by setting up the offense for a great pass, a decisive tackle that often swings the game’s momentum, or just being able to intercept the ball at the most opportune time. One of the best midfielders in the Southern Conference of the RPFL, Yoshida is sure to see time on the pitch by relieving Takahashi or Ma in the later games of the competition.

Rating: B+ – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: B
CAPS: 141 :: GOALS: 30 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59, 60, 62-68,WC 84-93, CoH 82, Eagles Cup XI

Neutral Midfielders:

18- HISAKAWA Si Woo
Height: 183cm - Weight: 84kg – Age: 35 years old - Team: Senlin Timbers

An extremely technical midfielder, Hisakawa Si Woo is not one to shy away from trying for goals. More adept at reading the play and setting up his forwards, Hisakawa is a bit more impatient than one would like, and he posseses the speed and agility to run through a good defence and find the back of the net on occasion. He is also the only player on the Bisons who is currently unsigned; his contract with the Taap-A team Omashu Athletic ended after AOCAF LX, and with nothing really to showcase his worth, Omashu Athletic chose to not sign Hisakawa; a fact that has certainly hurt his morale going into the last World Cup. However, an impressive showing, including four goals at WC 85, saw Hisakawa sign a two-year contract with the Senlin Timbers just days after the completion of the group stage.

Rating: B+ – Team Relationship: B – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 190 :: GOALS: 58 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-68,WC 84, 86-92, CoH 76,79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

Attacking Midfielders:

8- YU Shichiro
Height: 183cm - Weight: 85kg – Age: 32 years old - Team: Keldabe FC

With a very offensive-minded footballing style, Yu Shichiro works as the last link between the midfield and the offence. Much like Hisakawa, Yu has been known to even advance from the midfield to score quite a few key goals in pivotal games, including the 2019.2 Ve’vut Cup winning goal against Concord Dusk AFC. He has a powerful long shot and is exceptional at heading, both of which are aided by his height. However, as skilled as he is in offense, Yu still prefers to pass the ball up to forwards for an assist in a goal as opposed to being the star player.

Rating: A- – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 191 :: GOALS: 44 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-68,WC 84-92, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

11- GUANYU Jun
Height: 185cm - Weight: 81kg – Age: 28 years old - Team: Omashu Athletic (Taap-A)
A very creative midfielder, Guanyu Jun is very capable of making plays on the fly; with great vision and quick feet, he often can set up his forwards for a great goal or keep the ball moving through the middle. Though having graduated from Heibai University right after AOCAF 59, Guanyu was making his way into the Starting Eleven before being displaced by Yu Shichiro in WC 62. However, tenancity as always been one of Guanyu’s strength, and thanks to the offensively-minded playstyle employed by Head Coach Wong, Guanyu has easily solidified himself into the Starting Eleven; often pushing out of the midfield and into an extra attacker at times.

Rating: B+ – Team Relationship: B – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 134 :: GOALS: 30 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59, 60,62-68,WC 84-85,87-92, CoH 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

14 – Fei’kao SONG
Height: 185cm - Weight: 81kg – Age: 27 years old - Team: FC Mando

Relatively young when compared to his teammates, Fei’kao Song chose to forgo his collegiate career, getting drafted by FC Mando the day before his twentieth birthday. Despite all the fanfare of his first season behind him, Song has not had a promising start to his sophomore season. Given his still-developing skills in midfield, his is seen as a comparatively weak player and often spends more time with the coaching staff than other more-seasoned players. Song, much like Hisakawa, is a technical player by nature whose greatest asset is not in his aim or power, but in the art of dribbling which he uses at every opportunity. While more prone to provide assists on plays as opposed to goals, Song has proven himself through Trials to Tay’haai and earned a spot on the National Team, albeit a reserve position.

Rating: B- – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: C
CAPS: 52 :: GOALS: 12 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 60, 63-66, 68, WC 87-93 CoH 76, 79, 82

Travelling With the Team

Position	Name			Age		School/Team					Nation
DM		INOUE Anernerk	25		R.C UNITED				Water
DM		Kal ITOWA		25		FC Beijing				Water
NM		Penlu SAITO		22		Omashu				Fire
OM		SHAO Mi’ka		24		Solus FC				Water
OM		DIK Up’lis		23		Northern AFC				Earth

Mostly comprised of Water Tribesmen, the Midfield Travelling Corps is a grabbag of talent. From the University of the Northern Tribes come home-grown Inoue Anernerk, who at just like his father, the famed Inoue Kuruk, completed back-to-back double-digit scoring seasons in his last two seasons of college; impressive for a man who is supposed to be on the defensive midfield. From UST, Kal Itowa mirrors the success of Inoue, though a career less filled with goals and more with assists. Penlu Saito, a young player from the developmental Chomain State Academy, hopes to see a professional contract within the year, and with such a great season in the ADFL, you can be sure he will at least entertain some good offers. Out of the University of Kibago, Shao Mi’ka is a relatively quiet player who has had offers from both Gaoling Union and Senlin Timbers. Dik Up’lis rounds out the Travelling Corps, bringing from Omashu State a drive for excellence many teams would love to have, even if it comes with a bit more maturing to be fostered.

9 - Dag’da SKIRATA
Height: 185cm - Weight: 85kg – Age: 31 years old - Team: Ba Sing Se UNITED

From the fabled and illustrious Skirata family, Dag’da Skirata continues to show why the Skirata’s are the most famous Avatarian family in sports; from his grandfather Kad coaching the Men’s National Ice Hockey Team to his father A’den’s 59 goals in 190 caps for the Bisons, Dag’da has some massive shoes to fill. Though his youthful energy often times shows itself in classic mistakes, Skirata is able to power his way through many the defender and be it by foot or by head, he finds the net more often than not. Earning his century in the abysmal Cup of Harmony 79, Skirata hopes to redeem himself in the next campaign set to begin in Atlantian Oceania. In-between the 2021.1 and 2021.2 Campaigns, Skirata has shocked much of the Avatarian Sports world, forgoing the expected signing with his hometown FC Itakawai and signing with their interleague rival Ba Sing Se United for an undisclosed amount; however, the six-year contract is likely one of the most expensive to be signed in recent memory.

Skirata managed to score his one-hundreth goal in World Cup 90; the go-ahead and eventual winning goal against Damukuni on matchday ten. Four more goals throughout the tournament showed that he has put the dryspell of World Cup 89 behind him, and with a pair during the 82nd Cup of Harmony and a pair during the last AOCAF, many are of the mind that Skirata has returned to his stride.
Rating: S – Team Relationship: S – Morale: S – Form: A
CAPS: 229 :: GOALS: 146 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-68,WC 84-93, CoH 76,79, 82,Eagles Cup XI

10 - SONG Kaoru
Height: 178cm - Weight: 74kg – Age: 31 years old - Team: FC Mando

Much like Skirata, Song Kaoru comes from a sports-centric family; with his father a coach in the RPFL, his mother a third-line winger for the Ice Bisons and his younger brother the star goalkeeper for Itakawai City, fans and critics have come to expect nothing but greatness from Song. They have certainly not been disappointed in domestic play, with Song showing a near-effortless game on the pitch. Dodging defenders as if they were standing still, sniping balls past nets which might as well have been empty, Song has quickly become the media’s favorite player... especially with how he loves to be interviewed.

Rating: A – Team Relationship: A – Morale: A – Form: A
CAPS: :: 211 GOALS: 89 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59-68,WC 84-93, CoH 76, 79, 82, Eagles Cup XI

29- LI Yuuta
Height: 185cm - Weight: 85kg – Age: 32 years old - Team: Island FC

Older than both of the starting forwards, Li Yuuta also finds himself the oldest member of the Forward Corps. Playing the last six seasons in Island FC, Li has continued to develop as a well-rounded secondary striker; able to shield the ball from the other team and hold them off long enough for either of the Bisons’ primary stikers to get into position for a great shot. Li is very adept at striking himself, having led Island FC in Goals Scored last season.

Rating: A – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 68 :: GOALS: 29 :: TOURN. PLAYED: AOCAF 59, 60,62-63, 65-67,WC 84-92, CoH 76, 82, Eagles Cup XI

19 - KIM Vinh Lành
Height: 185cm - Weight: 80kg – Age: 28 years old - Team: Island FC

A seasoned pivot man through five seasons at Island FC, Kim Vinh Lành is known for his ability to read the pitch and place himself ahead of a ball to bring in an attempt --- even if the pass is terrible --- through his excellent ball-handling skills. Albeit not the most conditioned player, with stamina that often finds him at the back of the pack during running exercises, Kim makes up for his endurance with incredibly fast bursts to the goal.

Rating: B – Team Relationship: A – Morale: B – Form: A
CAPS: 38 :: GOALS: 11 :: TOURN. PLAYED: WC 86-92, CoH 79, 82

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┤ PLAYER OPTIONS ├

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Captain: TAKAHASI Hikaru
Vice-Captain: HASHIMOTO Isamiru
Third Captain: MA Haijiang

Kick Takers (in order of ability)
Free kicks: SONG Kaoru
Right corners: GANHAN Ri’om, UTHAN A’den
Left corners: TAKAHASHI Hikaru, UTHAN A’den
Penalties: Dag’da SKIRATA, TAKAHASHI Hikaru, MA Haijiang, GUANYU Jun, HASHIMOTO Isamiru, YU Shichiro, SOMCHAI Kikwan

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┤ COACHING STAFF ├

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Head Coach: WONG Haru
Height: 185cm – Weight: 88kg – Age 54 years old – Team: FC Itakawai, Assistant General Manager

Once a star defender for the Bisons, following his retirement from national and multiverse play, Wong Haru made a name for himself with a brief stint in coaching professionally; first as a Defensive Coach for Solus FC for two years and then FC She Pass for another four. However, when Wakahisa Hikaru – whose infamous knee injury in the championship game for the Republic Chalice brought the nation to tears and ended his professional career – called Wong, as the General Manager for FC Itakawai, to hand him the reigns of the infamous team right when they shifted ownership, it was a call Wong could not pass up. Being the head coach of one of the RPFL’s best teams for nearly 8 years truly honed his knowledge of the game as well as his abilities to analyze and coach players to greatness, all before he was promoted within to the role of Assistant General Manager under Wakahisa. After being both a player, a captain, positional coach, head coach, and assistant general manager, the only two roles left for Wong were to be either the National Team Head Coach, and the President of the ALAF. Thanks to Tay’haai - who brought Wong on as the assistant coach for the team back at the start of his tenure - one goal was finally achieved.

Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: B - Confidence: B
Tourn. Coached:
As Head Coach – AOCAF 66-68, WC 91-93
As Interim Head – AOCAF 64-65,WC 89-90, CoH 82, Eagles Cup XI
As Assistant – AOCAF 59-63,WC 84-88, CoH 76, 79

Coaching Assistants:
Forwards: KUSONAGI Batou, PHAM Vinh Lành, KRYSE Pre
Defence: NAKAMURA Batou and MAKI LI
Goalkeepers: KITA Bai’a, NISHIMURA Kenshin

Head Medical Officer: Doctor FONG Jintao
Height: 190cm – Weight: 82kg – Age 39 years old
Following the retirement of Wen Wuchin after the 85th World Cup, the much-younger Doctor Fong Jintao replaced the “Ol’Doc” as he was so lovingly referred to as by the team. Having served through the Grand Army of the Republic, Doctor Fong is a veritable successor to the Ol’Doc’s history as the last member of the Old Guard – all staff appointed by former-Head Coach and now Director Boba Vhett. When not travelling with the team, Fong carries the rank of Captain, First Class and serves in the 501st Legion in the First Territorial Army, stationed in Republic City; specifically, he is a resident Surgeon within the Third Avatarian Guard, and is seen as a competitor for the soon-to-be-vacated position of Head Assistant Surgeon in the Capital Medical Facility, thanks to another former member of the Old Guard retiring from that post.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Confidence: A
Medical Assistants: HU Haicheng, HONG Sujin, LEE Jiabao

Security Chief: Captain AKAAN (RC-4868)
Height: 190cm – Weight: 90kg – Age: 48 years old CHRONOLOGICAL (62 years old BIOLOGICAL)
A clone officer within the Grand Army of the Republic, RC-4868 was appointed Chief of Security for the National Team in 2011.1. Each time the team travels abroad --- so long as he is not engaged in a mission --- RC-4868 is pulled from service and placed into the spotlight of security. He is battle-hardened, having been raised since birth for war and combat, and as such often views these assignments with true boredom. The seven men he brings with him on assignment share the same sentiments of the ‘mission’, however, their ‘unwaivering loyalty’ to the Republic prevents any negative speak during the assignment. Each is a member of the Avatarian Guard, whose sole responsibility is to defend the Avatar at both home and abroad; this protection then extends to all sports teams travelling beyond the borders of the Five Nations.
Rating: A – Strength: A – Tactics: A – Skill: A
Security Assistants: CT-2234, CT-45-9934, CC-8341, CT-2401, CC-75-3341, RC-1346, RC-4321, RC-4555

Director of the National Team & President of the ALAF: HIS RIGHT HONOURABLE VHETTBoba
Age: 76 – Time in the job: 9 Years (38 jì)

Once the longest serving Head Coach in Avatarian History – with a record spanning 261 games, ten World Cups and multiple other multiverse competitions – it was only right for Vhett to step into the role of President of the Avatarian Leagues of Association Football. Having brought a team from nothing to the quarterfinals in 8 World Cups is not something to look away from, and although his career was tarnished slightly by the final performances of the Bisons – going 5-7-1 in his last World Cup – Vhett is confident that soon glory will be returned to the Avatarian Republics, although initial performances in all seven tournaments to date have been far from promising.
Rating: S - Influence: A - Morale: A - Confidence: A – History: S

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┤ THE KITS ├

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The Bisons will be wearing the uniforms they debuted in the 2021.1 Campaign at the Eighty-Seventh World Cup for the entirerty of the 2022.2 Campaign.

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┤ GROUP STAGE SCHEDULE ├

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.:: COMING SOON ::.

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┤ PRIMARY FORMATION ├

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While under Tay’haai and Vhett, the Bisons utilized the modern standard of the 4-4-2 Formation. Giving the Bisons a strong midfield presence while pairing two quick strikers – in the last cup being Skirata and Song Kaoru – the 4-4-2 allowed many of the Bison games to keep low goals for an opponent while giving them a chance to rack up high goals.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t always the case…

Under Head Coach Wong Haru, the Bisons are changing up their usual style and taking out the second forward and replacing them with a stronger midfield presence in what is known as a 4-5-1 Formation. Usually taken by teams wanting to secure a lead, the 4-5-1 is often seen as a more ‘defensive minded’ formation. The extra midfielder – in this case Hisakawa Si Woo – often will float between a defensive position and a support position for the remaining forward. In choosing the speed of Skirata over the accuracy of Song Kaoru, Interim Coach Wong is giving up offensive capability to shore up defence. Especially considering that Song was the lead goal-scorer in the last World Cup, the focus on a slightly-younger Skirata may be a look to the future and keep Song on standby should the offence need a boost.

Expect to see the two men swapped out from game to game until the team solidifies. Of course, in a tournament with just four games, the team may not be able to completely figure out its new strategy in quick-enough fashion.

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┤ ROLEPLAY PERMISSIONS ├

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Choose my goal scorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
Injure to my players: Yes for minor, one-game-out injuries. I will decide and RP any further inactivity for a player caused by your injury.
Godmod injuries: Yes for minor, one-game-out injuries
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes, within reason
Hand out Red cards to my players: Yes (1 MAX PER GAME)
Godmod Other Events: Yes, within reason. Please telegram me if you’re in doubt.

[Tropicorp]

The inaugural AOCAF Round of Chaos delivered on exactly what it promised as teams fought for a guaranteed top-half spot in the AOCAF 69 Group Allocations. Things were thrown for a loop when every single matchup was found to have been scheduled at an arena that was not within the territory of either competing team, resulting in such oddities as the first ever official AOCAF match contested in Aboveland - as well as an unexpected return to one of the host sites of the World Cup 32 Finals. Of course the big news on the day, however, was the stunning upset of AOCAF 67 and World Cup Champions Banija by lowly North Handoria. The Banijan's clearly fielded an inferior lineup - whether by virtue of skills or just mental preparation while the Handorians saw an opportunity to finally be taken seriously. They've been handed that opportunity on a silver platter now with a Top half group placement guaranteed and a chance at the #1 seed if they can win during Chaos-Squared.

To determine the matchups for Chaos^2, all the winners from the Opening Round of Chaos were separated from the Losers, then each sorted in the only way possible, Goal Difference. Goals in extra time counted at 1/10th their value while Goals in a Penalty Shootout counted at 1/100th their value as a means of breaking ties, with Goals Scored and Finally, AOCAF Ranking settling the difference between the numerous 1-0 winners. Should any late entrants arrive to the AOCAF Field, it could provide relief for first round losers who could sneak back into the top half by this method.

Without further adieu, the matchups for Chaos Squared. Keep Scrolling to the end, #12 will scare the margaret out of you!

Thusly Fortunate
Kimi-Suomi v. Gyatso-Kai
Busoga Islands v. Demot
Fort Mckinley v. Squornshelan Remnant States
Valanora v. Qasden
Vilita and Turori v. North Handoria
Sultanate of Oontaz v. Jabal Akhdar

Somewhat Less Fortunate
Mlima Kijani v. Tropicorp
Milchama v. Pluvia and the Saxean Isles
Al-Tamazgha v. Commonwealth of Baker Park
Canadian Dominion v. Romsten
Carpathia and Ruthenia v. Equestrian States
Banija v. Farfadillis

[/pre]

[Oontaz Dert Li Ng]

How many times will the Sultanate of Oontaz and the Equestrian States have to meet each other in the AOCAF Cup before it gets too boring? Apparently, the football gods’ answer to that particular question was “as many times as we want.” Of course, most people in the Sultanate of Oontaz didn’t really believe that there was such a thing as “the football gods.” They believed only in one God; whether this deity is called Allah or God is practically academic at this point. But a lot of football fans from the Sultanate were definitely finding it annoying that their team, the Lions of Sand and Sea, seemingly couldn’t get away from the Equestrian States even if they tried. However, as it turned out, the Sultanate had not actually faced Equestria as many times as people believed, with perhaps AOCAF 57 being the only time that it had happened so far. But AOCAF 69 was going to be at the very least the second meeting between the two nations, and one would be hard-pressed to find someone who wasn’t excited to see how all of this would unfold.

The current year was turning out to be the year of experimental tournament formats for a lot of sporting competitions throughout the multiverse. For AOCAF 69, instead of starting off with a group stage as was to be expected of most other competitions, it started off with a so-called “chaos draw.” Teams were seemingly drawn at random to face each other in round 1 of the so-called “chaos draw,” with the winners of this match-up set to play against each other in round 2 and the losers set to play other losers. The Sultanate of Oontaz were drawn against the Equestrian States in this round 1 of 2 of the “chaos draw,” leading to a lot of Oontazniks groaning internally and externally because their team was playing the Equestrians again. It had already been proven that this match-up wasn’t happening as often as most people thought it did, but these were the kind of things that were often cemented in people’s minds even in the presence of evidence to the contrary. One thing was for certain though; the Oontaznik people wanted the Lions of Sand and Sea to deal with the Equestrians decisively so that the chances of meeting them again in this tournament would hopefully be reduced to zero.

Unfortunately for the Lions of Sand and Sea, the Equestrian States proved to be quite the stubborn team. They may not be hitting the heights that they once were, but the Equestrians were still a formidable opponent no matter who they were playing or where. The Equestrians showed this to the Oontazniks by stifling the latter’s attacks and generally being a nuisance in and around their half of the pitch. The Equestrians also liked to break up the pace of the game by a combination of fouls and time-wasting, something which the Lions of Sand and Sea didn’t appreciate. For their part, the Oontaznik team wasn’t used to having more possession than their opponent so they also ended up wasting some time of their own just by trying to find a pass that they hoped would get a teammate past the stubborn Equestrian defense. It wouldn’t be until the dying minutes of the game that the Lions of Sand and Sea would finally find a way past the Equestrians, and it would be substitute striker Donnie Ong who broke the deadlock. The thing about Ong’s goal though was that it wasn’t some fancy overhead bicycle kick that zipped past every defender inside the box; no, Ong was simply in the right place at the right time when the ball finally went through to side-foot it past the goalkeeper.

According to the schedule, the Sultanate’s next opponent was going to be Jabal Akhdar, a fellow Muslim nation that had been the subject of controversy in recent times. Jabal Akhdar surprised most everyone when they shockingly defeated Farfadillis by a single goal in their Chaos Draw Round 1 match as well. That surprising victory had now put a spotlight on a country that had been accused of harboring terrorists recently, but for all of the controversy surrounding their country, the Jabal Akhdar team were playing like it was only the AOCAF that was happening and nothing else. The Lions of Sand and Sea would have to dig deep once again in order to hold back their coming opponents, perhaps deeper than what they had to do to get past the Equestrian States.

  SULTANATE OF OONTAZ 1 - 0 EQUESTRIAN STATES  
            ONG (85')

[Valanora]

World ranked number one team coming off a third placed triump and second semifinals appearance in three cycles, it should have been a cycle where a sixth title could have been chased after. Alas nothing is quite how it would seem and what you want in life can sometimes steer you wrong no matter how right it might feel at the time. You struggle against it, you fight through the adversity, and yet you are ever entangled in it. It is inevitable that at some point you are bound to face the bittersweet sorrow of misery and the wretched taste of defeat and disappointment that turns all that is right in the world to ash for you. That sorrow laddebed feeling is what no doubt what was brimming to burst in the Marauders camp after a completely unprecedented group stage exit despite all that was in their favor.

Recovering from such hefty and heavy blows is no easy feat even for a people who are used to taking disappointment on the chin and moving on to the next opportunity. These sort of situations hurt in a way that you can scarcely fathom to believe and find it even more difficult to try and articulate. There are wounds that sometimes no matter the amount of time nor the amount of trying to process them, that the wound simply is too deep and never will come to heal fully. It leaves in its staid a scare that brands that ever lasting feelings of hurt and turmoil into the skin, a piece of you that will never quite be whole once more. Not broken but not quite the same as yo lu were before, transformed in some way that makes you different from what you were before such trauma.

Dan Eastwood had seen everything that they had touched turned to gold in Valanora. Starting with taking over a Raynor City United squad that was still the best team in the Empire but the gap has become smaller and their stature in the international game has decreased. Winning Premiership after Preniership title as well as adding a Chmapions League and Challengers Cup title to the trophy room, with numerous other trophies, many deemed him the greatest manager to ever take charge of United. Then he took the Marauders job and guided them almost effortlessly toward the regional title despite no time to familiarize himself with the team. That it would all come to a screeching and unexpected halt in the Finals came as a shock not just to the fans but Eastwood himself. Vowing to correct the issue post haste, an experimental roster has been called up to the AOCAF, with several players who had been seen as fringe prospects along with some of the usual names. It is also a roster that has a bit of youth to it, with Wastwood looking at the next two World Cups rather than going all on on the next World Cup.