ARC VII Everything Thread + Arrosia Capital of Culture

by **Banija** » Thu Jul 09, 2026 7:51 am

ARC VII

Many thanks to the Kytler Peninsulae for designing this logo!

The Royal Banijan Soccer Association(RBSA), joined by the Cardenao Football Association (CFA), welcome you to their respective countries for the seventh Arrosia Regional Championships, in addition to the inaugural Arrosia Capital of Culture Competition!

Helpful ARC VII Links
Guide to Sports Roleplaying and General Sports Roleplaying Questions || ARC VI || World Cup 101 ||Host Bid || Signup Thread || ARC ranks

Format
20 teams- 5 groups of 4. Single round robin. Top 4 group winners advance to the quarterfinals. Worst group winner, all second place teams, and top 2 third place teams advance to the Round of 12. All games are played in the host nations.

Groups A-C are ICly played in Banija, and graded/scored by Cardenao. Groups D-E are ICly played in Cardenao, and graded/scored by Banija.

GROUP A
Gucci Republic (26)
Busoga Islands (13)
Demot (10)
Squornshelous (1)

GROUP B
Equestria (23)
Fort McKinley (19)
Valanora (3)
Milchama (7)

GROUP C
Loyo (24)
Banija (2)
Myrtle Beach (9)
Quebec and Shingoryeo (12)

GROUP D
Qasden (14)
Dhemixia (UR)
Carpathia and Ruthenia (8)
Commonwealth of Baker Park (4)

GROUP E
Cardenao (UR)
Farfadillis (6)
Siovanija and Teusland (5)
Sultanate of Oontaz (15)

Calendar - Banija's (so groups D-E) cutoff will be between 4 and 6 PM EDT. Cardenao's cutoff (so groups A-C) will be between 7 and 8 PM EDT.
Matchday 1 (1 v 4, 2 v 3) - Wednesday, July 15th
Matchday 2 (4 v 3, 1 v 2) - Friday, July 17th
Matchday 3 (2 v 4, 3 v 1) - Monday, July 20th. Due date for Capital of Culture bids (Card's cutoff will be the due date time).
Round of 12- Wednesday, July 22nd. Voting starts for the Arrosian Capital of Culture.
Quarterfinals- Friday, July 24th.
Semifinals- Sunday, July 26th. Vote deadline for the Arrosian Capital of Culture.
Final/3PPO- Tuesday, July 28th. Arrosian Capital of Culture winner revealed.

RP Permissions
Please post this either with your roster or your first RP with a yes or a no(with any qualifiers) for each question. These are all permissions to help facilitate an acceptable RP to you if somebody else RPs your match first, and vice versa.

Code: Select all: [u]RP Permissions[/u] [b]Choose my scorers:[/b] [b]Choose my scoring events:[/b] [b]Give my players yellow cards:[/b] [b]Give my players red cards:[/b] [b]Godmod scoring events:[/b] [b]RP injuries to my players:[/b] [b]Godmod Injuries to my players:[/b] [b]Godmod other events:[/b] [b]Anything else relevant:[/b]

Group Stage Tiebreakers
1) H-2-H Wins
2) Overall Point Differential
3) IC coin toss (OOC RP bonus only scorination- take out rank, but include roster & RP bonus)

Use of AI Policy

Violations of this policy will be subject to the harshest possible penalties. If you have questions on this, or anything is unclear, please TG me any questions you have.

#1 AI Generated images- AI generated images are fine as long as they are explicitly labeled as such.
#2 AI Generated text- AI generated text is explicitly prohibited, and any instance thereof allows the host to levy any punishment as I see fit, including but not limited to zeroing out both rank and any prior earned RP bonus.
#3 AI Translation- AI translation services into English are also fine. However, the original language text should be posted in a spoiler for transparency purposes. See a good sample RP from Huayramarca that is a perfect illustration of what I am talking about.

Arrosia Capital of Culture Competition

The guidelines and rules for the Capital of Culture competition are as follows;

ARROSIA CAPITAL OF CULTURE GUIDELINES
In an effort to establish deeper cultural understanding within its member nations, to increase mutual awareness and regional spirit, ARC 7 will also see the first edition of the Arrosian Capital of Culture. This is an opportunity to submit a city from your nation to potentially be elected as Arrosia’s first Capital of Culture, recognized by the region for being a city of particular distinction for reasons left for you to reveal.

The Arrosian Capital of Culture will be awarded through vote to an extraordinary member city after careful consideration of nominated contenders. While winning the Capital of Culture can be considered a source of immense local and national pride, even the act of bidding has the potential to bring long-term cultural, social and economic benefits to the host city and nation. Even those cities that aren’t selected can benefit; careful preparation of the application can increase tourism and give a boost to the city’s cultural life at large.

NOTE: You do NOT need to partake in the Capital of Culture as a requirement to participate in ARC 7. This is an entirely optional addition to the tournament but it is meant to be a fun way to tap into world building passions without too much effort required!

SELECTION PROCEDURE
Voting shall take place for Arrosian Capital of Culture occurring on the following timeline;

Group Stage Matchday 3 = Bid deadline
Quarterfinals = Vote
Final = Award

A bidding period will take place where participating nations may nominate and write about one (1) city within their country describing its cultural heritage, impact within and outside of its borders and generally things that make it an awesome place to be that others should flock to. At the end of this week, Cardenao shall collect votes for (dependent on number of entries) matchdays. At the end of the voting period, the city with the most votes shall host the Arrosian Capital of Culture. In the event of a tie, voting will be reopened between the tied bids, and Cardenao shall collect votes for (dependent on number of entries) matchdays. In the event that no cities bid for the Capital of Culture, I will be quite sad.

NOTE: You can post as much or as little regarding the Capital of Culture as you want! If you want to make one single mega post with every aspect of your bid OR if you want to make multiple posts across several matchdays OR if you want to do something completely different, these are all accepted! MAKE SURE you clearly mark posts/parts of posts that are CoC relevant.

BID REQUIREMENTS
In order to guide cities on how to present their application for nomination as Arrosian Capital of Culture, bidding cities are recommended to consider the questions below as part of their application, though providing answers to these questions specifically is not required, and are encouraged to provide additional information to support their bid. The bid may include a logo, a metro map, a local guide to holes in the wall…let the creativity flow!

Why does the city which you represent wish to take part in the competition for the title of Arrosian Capital of Culture?
What is the general ambiance of the city?
What are visitors’ first impressions, what do they notice?
Will there be a bid director? What is his/her profile? What will be his/her field of action?
Will there be sponsors involved in the bid?
What are the city's assets in terms of accessibility (regional, national and international transport)?
What events shaped the city? Who are its heroes…its villains?
What is the architecture style?
What are residents like?
What’s the food scene like?
What brings everyone together? Events, celebrations, remembrances…
What’s the local football scene? How about sports in general?
Why should Arrosian citizens visit?
What is the city and local environment like? What’s nearby the city?
What’s a normal day for an average resident like?
Additionally, bids could address such questions as “If the city in question is awarded the title of Arrosian Capital of Culture, what would be the medium- and long-term effects of the event from a social, cultural and urban point of view?” and/or, “How does the event fit into the long-term cultural development of the city and, where appropriate, of the greater Arrosian region?” and/or, “Does the city intend to develop particular cultural projects in the coming years, irrespective of the outcome of its application for the title of Arrosian Capital of Culture?”.

These questions are NOT mandatory but are recommended and should at least give cities interested in bidding a starting point from which to work from.

Other Info

As a reminder, only the host may reserve posts. Use the draft feature if you want to put down a post mid writing and finish it later.

Any OOC host announcements will be made in the Signup thread, so check there periodically.

This thread is ready to go, so go ahead and start posting your rosters and RP! May the odds be ever in your favor

by **Cardenao** » Thu Jul 09, 2026 7:51 am

Hosting Stadium and City Information

La Academia, Niccostrato (Capacity: 47,845)
The stadium started off humbly as the backyard pitch for the dormitory for La Escuela’s youth academy, home to the brightest young talents from across the country. Over the years the backyard pitch became the matchday pitch for the club, but legal wording meant that the brick and rock dorm had to stay. Thus, the stadium was built around the dormitory, with those lucky young talents' bedroom windows looking right down the halfway line. Sure, the club loses out on a good bit of matchday revenue with one of the main stands being effectively full of subsidized children, but every young Cardenaoan dreams of earning a stay in those rooms at La Escuela Nacíonal De Cardenao Por Football.

Casa Cartablanca, Cartablanca (Capacity: 41,000)
Casa Cartablanca, home to AS Cartablanca, representing the city of…Cartablanca. It is a regal, almost house of worship like architecture that has earned it the nickname of La Catedral, though the only thing worshiped here was the glory of football. Much like the country itself, there is a fusion of more modern amenities and building styles, with a fantastic billboard displaying alternating real time stats and insights, curiously those insights almost exclusively focus on the away team. The stadium itself is located at the top of a large, white rock cliff with the ocean battering against it on the eastern side, while sandy calm beaches on the west side provide a relaxing getaway for tourists.

RTC Transhub Arena, Sareña (Capacity: 36,420)
Home to Sareña FC is RTC Transhub Arena. Sponsored by the Banijan Corporation, railways feature prominently in the stadium’s fun architecture, from railroad tracks imprinted into the ground at certain points of the stadium, to small functional trams mocked up as trains that shuttle fans to different parts of the facility, the whole experience is very fun and engaging for match going fans. There is a lot of moving machinery, though being RTC funded it is all very safe and entertaining. The city of Sareña sits on the largest island directly north of New Cardonia, situated on its southernmost tip and is famous for its vibrant night scene with plenty of clubs, substances, and good times to be had.

The Cottage, Küsbon (Capacity: 33,800)
The Cottage was inspired by the starkness of the San Gabriel Mountains, which the stadium sits at the base of. Four separate stands, sitting square to the pitch and made of concrete, with four connecting curves of concrete wrapping everything together. A third tier is supported by 11 cylindrical towers that match goers can use to access the various levels. The whole effect is one of a hollowed out castle, and the red and black decor of the home team reinforces that. The city of Küsbon is largely similar, a quaint town with an air of quiet determination about it. There isn’t much in the way of partying and entertainment within the city, as the playground of the mountain range provides all the fun needed.

The Library, Puente Alexandria (Capacity: 27,777)
Home to Alexandria United. The Library hosts 27,777 fans and is built very vertically, with the three tiers stacked narrowly on top of each other. It feels more like a basketball arena than a football stadium and the packed seating arrangement means the 27,777fans sound like a helluva lot more as they tower over the pitch. Curiously, both teams' benches are cut underneath the fan seats themselves, so the players must deal with the constant, nearly deafening pounding of fan’s feet, though there is notably more soundproofing in the home dugout. Puente Alexandria is a port city located at the northeasternmost nub of Eastern Cardenao on Nova Calania. The city is an intoxicating mixture of bohemianism and the culture of those that live on the sea, with a very healthy dose of the various cultures and nationalities that pass through Puente Alexandria, and tourists will experience many memorable nights getting swept along the dreamy alleys.

CNF Corp Center, New Cardonia (Capacity: 57,772)
Home to the winners of the first ever Cardenao MegaPower League winners, Cardonia FC, the stadium is a modern house of football. CNF Corp Center boasts a full color changing exterior, and the 57,772 match goers enjoy all the comforts of a covered stadium. Modern amenities, interactive screens throughout the stadium for fans to perform their own replay analysis in live action, functioning toilets, and plenty of adult beverage stations makes the Center a party for all. New Cardonia is a fun city at the heart of the modern vs old Cardenao struggle, with the city slowly undergoing a metamorphosis with more modern buildings featuring posh coffee shops and artisanal ice creameries and bars designed to imitate the dive bar aesthetic common across Cardenao. There’s something for everyone within the Cardenao capital of fun.

Stadi Cardenao, New Cardonia (Capacity: 83,500)
Hosting the Final and sitting centrally on a massive grass lawn is the newly constructed Stadi Cardenao, home to the Cardenao national team and one third of the Cardenao MegaPower League season fixtures. The supermodern stadium boasts all the amenities of top stadiums in the multiverse and is a crowning product of President Mihaly Otamendi’s commitment to both sporting in Cardenao and national development as a whole. It was a classic football oval, not too much to it, with a retractable roof providing cover from the elements on the rare day something stirs up. There’s a network of paved pathways across the lawn with a small but growing number of shops spread throughout. New Cardonia is the most modern city in Cardenao and presents a fusion of historical, cultural, and flat out party fun opportunities for tourists and players.

by **Banija** » Thu Jul 09, 2026 7:54 am

National Information

The Royal Banijan Soccer Association, welcomes naitonal teams into the country for ARC VII!

The Kingdom of Banija is a country that classifies itself as a semi-constitutional monarchy. A nation that is a member of Arrosia, it is led by the Kabaka(which translates to King), and the current monarch is Kabaka Mwanga. The Kabaka, alongside with the Waziri(translates to Foreign Minister), whom he picks and dismisses solely at his pleasure, is the Head of State and responsible for the country's foreign affairs. Upon reaching age 25, the Isebantu(Crown Prince), becomes the Waziri by constitutional right. The full list of members of the Royal Family can be found here.

Kabaka Sekakama has just ascended to the throne due to the extremely recent death of his great-grandfather, Kabaka Mwanga. Since he is just 6 years old, however, his great aunt Immaculate will rule in his name as the Omukama(Regent) until he reaches the age of majority(17 years old).

The elected unicameral legislature is the Lukiiko(Parliament), and the Lukiiko is responsible for governance of domestic affairs. The Katikkiro(Prime Minister) is elected by the Lukiiko. After over a decade of rule by the left, this traditionally conservative nation has shown its true colors again by electing a government led by the center-right People's Protection Movement, in coalition with the Latter-Day Alliance. The most recent election results can be found here. The Katikkiro is Boaz Gor, who is currently serving in his first term as Head of Government. A full list of his cabinet, and other leading Banijan political decision-makers, can be found here.

The established church is the Puritan Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, most commonly known as Puritan Mormonism. Well over 90% of Banijans identify as adherents to the state church, though freedom of religion is generally respected by the law and the populace. There is very little patience and open disdain, however, for atheism among the general populace. Courts are sometimes known not to enforce freedom of religion laws when it comes to those preaching atheism, which is considered an 'evil' view by many Banijans. A list of leadership of the Church leadership can be found here.

Due to the massive influence of Puritan Mormonism in this nation, they are relatively socially conservative. Abortion in this country is outlawed unless the mother's life is in danger, and polygamy for males is legal. The church's Universal Call to Motherhood, which teaches that the destiny of each and every woman is to give birth to children and raise faithful Puritan Mormons, has heavily shaped the nation's view on the role of women in society, forming the basis for Banija's prior sports gender segregation laws in the first place. Consumption of alcohol and the recreational use of marijuana in Banija is legal- other harder drugs are banned. Due to Mormon tradition and church law, the purchase/sale of coffee products is illegal within Banija- however, the consumption is not. Fans and teams are allowed to bring in their own coffee products as long as they are declared at customs, where it is then taxed per pound. Any attempt or effort to sell the product, however, can and will result in arrest.

Most people in the country speak both Olusanke, the local dialect, and English. There is a smattering of both Korean and French spoken within the country, thanks to Banija's Quebecois roots. Banija's currency is the shilling. The exchange rate to the NationStates Dollar is 25 shillings to 1 NSD. Conversion kiosks will be available at all hotels and at airports to exchange your money, as well as any banks. However, using the NSDs directly to purchase items is only guaranteed at stadiums and hotels- vendors outside of stadiums or hotels are not required to accept NationStates Dollars. Fans are also advised that street vendors will generally only take cash, although more and more will take card.

Of course, Banija was for a long time known as a developing country and more of a backwater Economically. However, due to a recent discovery of large oil deposits in Hangaza during World Cup 82, the country has been engaged in an economic miracle since then, with the country reaching true developed country status. Public transit within cities is via the boda boda, though each team/delegation will have passenger busses provided by the RTC to transport players, coaches, staff, family, etc... To and from the hotel to the games and practices. The climate of Banija has a lot of natural rainforest and jungle, which means that there is no winter, only wet season and dry season. Temperatures generally range at their coldest around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and at their hottest around 110 degrees Fahrenheit. For the duration of the tournament, average high temperatures will range from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Banijans have a tendency of being relaxed about time. While, of course, things like flights and matches will run on time, this is something that is observed generally, especially at restaurants. It is considered standard to arrive about 15-20 minutes late for a restaurant reservation, which is something Banijan authorities would like to make note of for travelling fans and visitors to the country for this tournament. This is very true for hangouts with Banijans, dates, weddings, etc... Within the country.

The largest international airports within Banija are South Moravica/Istria International(called SMI International), Jinja City International, and Busukuma International. These serve the country's two largest cities, and the nation's capitol. All teams and dignitaries, upon their arrival to Banija, will fly into Gonzaga International Airport in Busukuma before reaching their final destination. Gonzaga International has long been known as the 'VIP' airport, catering to the royals, high-ranking government officials, and those deemed of special importance by the Government of the day. Most flights will go to one of those three airports before flying to the host city.

In terms of food, Banijans are very heavy meat eaters, and you'll find plenty of chicken, goat meat, beef, pork, and turkey options on your localized menus. In terms of non-meats, popular staple foods are jollof, matoke, Chapati, a rolex, and samosas. Strictly vegan restaurants within the country, outside of Istria and Busukuma, are almost non-existent, though of course you'll find non-meat options everywhere.

Per the latest Census, the national population of Banija is 133 million.

Banija is also well-known for having flourishing and extensive wildlife. It has Arrosia's biggest population of the 'Big 5' game animals- lions, buffalo, leopards, rhinos, and elephants. It also has the region's largest population of hippos, zebra, and antelope. These animals can be found extrensively throughout safaris and savannahs in rural Banija. Banija is known for not only having the biggest populations of those animals in the region- but arguably some of the biggest wildest populations of those animals in the entire multiverse, although of course that is unverifiable. Furthermore, Banija is known for being the only country, to our knowledge, that has a wild, native, and healthy triceratops population- the only living dinosaur species in the country. These are found primarily in Bunyoro and Buganda. Banija has strengthened their relationship with Cardenao by working with native authorities to plant a wild triceratops population in Cardenao.

Locations

Istria, Moravica
Banija's largest port and largest city by population, this is in the Moravica region, in Northwestern Banija. It is a city of 4,728,000 people, and it is known as Banija's economic capitol. It is largely considered Banija's most diverse city. Historically, this city served as the second capitol city of the Kasanke Tribe, the historical predecessors of the modern Banijan nation. It is one of two Banijan cities with a major foreign population- the other being the nation's capitol, Busukuma. It has risen in status since its designation as an Olympic City, having co-hosted the XIV Summer Olympiad with Orean, Liventia. Nearly a third of the city holds citizenship of a country other than Banijan. More of those come from the Royal Kingdom of Quebec or the Busoga Islands, but people come from all over Atlantian Oceania and the rest of the multiverse. It is also known as Banija's wealthiest city and primary economic hub. It is home to Banija's oldest university, the University of Loyola-Istria, and to the country's biggest airport. It is also home to the Regional Transit Corporation, as well as the Istria Stock Exchange.

Kabonero III Field

The first stadium in Istria is Kabonero III Field, with a capacity of 48,000. The stadium is named after Kabonero III, the monarch who united the country's modern day territory under his rule, and the first to rule the country with the name Banija. It is the home of Istria City FC's, one of Banija's biggest clubs. While the stadium has hosted games at all sorts of major events, including World Cups 81 and 83, multiple Baptisms of Fires, and multiple Cups of Harmony, it was not chosen for World Cup 99, giving way to the Istria Olympic Stadium for World Cup 99. But with the stadium being renovated, this stadium is back in the spotlight for the regional championships.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 3- Second Game
Group B, Matchday 2- Second Game
Group C, Matchday 1- Second Game
One Quarterfinal Match

Herzegovina City, Moravica
Banija's oldest city, the city by its current name is over 800 years old, when it was first conquered by the Kasanke people. It is a city with a population of over 2.9 million people. It is the heart of the Puritan Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The national religion was started in this city, and the church's world headquarters, the Herzegovina Temple, is the multiverse's largest Puritan Mormon church. The Bishop of this church, formally titled the Patriarch of Herzegovina, is the most senior member of the church, and the joint head of the global church, alongside His Majesty, the Kabaka. It is home to Banija's largest university, Northern Moravica University. It served as the seat of government for the Kasanke Tribe. It is also the capitol city of the Moravica region. As the original home of the predecessors of the Banijan monarchs, all reigning monarchs are buried on the grounds of the Herzegovina Temple.

Herzegovina City had their own airport finally open just prior to World Cup 83. It is not the largest airport, and much traffic is still directed through Istria. Still, it has permanent international status, and is a city looking to continuously place themselves on the map.

Star Field
Capacity of 68,600

Star Field is the oldest Banijan stadium that is going to be used for this World Cup. It is one of those rare stadiums that is being used for the third time at a World Cup, having hosted games both at World Cup 81 and World Cup 83. It is the home stadium of Herzegovina City FC, who are widely considered to be Banija's biggest soccer club.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 3- Third Game
Group B, Matchday 1- Second Game
Group C, Matchday 2- Second Game
Third Place Match

Busukuma, National Capitol Region
This is the nation's capitol, located on the country's Southern coastline. Puritan Mormons believe that their God told the-then chief of the Kasanke, Kabonero III, that he should conquer all of the land that is currently Banija, gave the country it's name(therefore killing the name of the Kasanke nation), and put the capitol in the South. He did it, made Busukuma the capitol, and declared himself Banija's first Maharaja, or Emperor. As the nation's capitol for over 400 years, the city has been the spot for many major events in Banijan history, and the seat of plenty of foreign embassies, a large foreign population, and Banija's first airport.

The city, of course, is known for having two airports- the public, international airport, called Busukuma International, and also the non-public airport, named Gonzaga International Airport- reserved for the royal family and their guests, elected national politicians, foreign diplomats, and the point of entry for high-ranking officials to avoid the general public. Heads of State/Government, Foreign Ministers, AOCAF officials, host committee members, and national teams, upon their first arrival into Banija, will fly into Gonzaga International.

Stadium of the Restoration
Capacity of 101,835

The national stadium, the Stadium of the Restoration, sits 101,835. It is the country's largest non-racing stadium. On the stadium's site, in 1835, the Banijan monarchy was restored at this site in Banija's first declaration of independence from the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. When the RBSA was formed, it was the obvious site to build the national stadium. The original facility sat 69,000, and was then, as it is now, Banija's largest soccer stadium. It was home to the Banijan national soccer and gridiron teams, and hosted plenty of international tournaments, including the Finals of a UICA Globe Cup, World Bowl and a Baptism of Fire. However, the ageing facility needed to be rebuilt so that one could fit the WCC's 80,000 seater minimum requirement to host a World Cup opening match, as required when the country co-hosted World Cup 81. The stadium is jointly owned and operated by the Olympic Committee of Banija, the GFLB(Gridiron Football League of Banija), the BCSG(Banijan Collegiate Sports Group), and the RBSA(Royal Banijan Soccer Association).

The bid from AEP, an architectural firm from Siovanija & Teusland, won the bid to build a new Stadium of the Restoration on the same site in time for World Cup 81. The brand new stadium's capacity, according to the bid, is a nod to Banija's history, of the year that made the site famous in 1835. It has a retractable natural grass surface, used for soccer, and a retractable articifial turf surface, used for gridiron football and during ceremonies like coronations. There are no gaps between the stands, while the South Stand is a single tier, designed to amplify crowd noise. The stadium contains 35 suites, 1 of which is always reserved for RBSA executives, and the second always received for His Majesty, the Kabaka. They built the stadium to a capacity of 91,835. The last 4 digits of the capacity are intentional- 1835, after the year of the restoration of the Banijan monarchy.

However, in preparation for the Golden anniversary of the World Bowl, the owners of this stadium oversaw an 10,000 seat expansion, to 101,835- which makes it the largest stadium in the country. And, of course, still ending with 1835. This meant that the stadium was closed for World Cup 98 Qualifiers, but re-opened spectacularly in Week 2 of World Bowl L.

This stadium is Banija's most prestigious- having hosted more championship matches than any other. In soccer, this stadium has hosted both the opening match and one of the semifinals of both World Cup 81 and World Cup 83, The final of both AOCAF LVIII and LXII, the Baptism of Fire 76 Final, the Cup of Harmony 76 and 89 Finals, and even an IFCF Champions League Final. Most importantly, the stadium also played host to the World Cup 99 Final. In gridiron, this stadium has hosted two NSCF Finals and three World Bowl Finals, as well as being the annual host of the NSCF Celestia Conference Championship game, and the NSCF Mugisha III Memorial Bowl. It is also the annual host of three of the most important games on the Banijan gridiron calendar- the BCSG National Championship Game, the Simba Bowl(aka the GFLB title game), and Army v. Navy.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 2- Second Game
Group B, Matchday 3- Second Game
Group C, Matchday 1- First Game
One Semifinal

Jinja City, Hangaza
This city of 3.3 million people is Banija's largest inland city, and the third largest city in the entire country, in terms of population. This city is the economic center of the Hangaza region, even if its political capitol lies towards the East, in Aissa. Despite being an inland city, it is rapidly diversifying- with migrant groups from across Arrosia, that want a cheaper cost-of-living than the traditional migrant hubs along the Banijan coastline, are moving here in bigger numbers.

Historically, the city is known for being the spiritual home of one of Banija's minority ethnic groups- the Akamba. It is also sight of the first battle of the Kasanke conquest, when they moved from the Moravican coast to take over the entirety of what is now Banija. The city is named after Banija's biggest river, the Jinja River.

Stadium- BCEL Stadium
Capacity of 52,400

This stadium has a capacity of 52,400. Sponsored by the soft drink company BCEL from Baker Park. It was built to attract matches for BoF 67, and is considered one of Banija's premier stadiums. It is home to Banijan club Jinja City FC, one of Banija's Super 5 clubs. It is one of quite a few stadiums in Banija that are shared between the soccer and the gridiron teams. It has hosted matches at all three WCC tournaments, as well as prior World Bowls that Banija has hosted.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 2- First Game
Group B, Matchday 1- First Game
Group C, Matchday 3- First Game
One Round of 12 Match

Hoima, Ankole
Now, while Hoima wasn't a shoe-in per say, it was never really going to be left off of the host list, was it? A city with 2.5 million people, one with a stadium as large as theirs, and the hosting experience- Hoima was always going to be chosen. Now, of course, for a city of its size, it is probably the least multi-cultural big city in Banija, besides maybe Mynda- not surprising considering it is an inland city. Despite that, it is considered very left-wing by Banijan standards.

Stadium- Mavuto Field
Capacity of 75,000

This is a stadium that was built before AOCAF LVIII, and it is a joint shared stadium between the Hoima Warriors, the S-FPL soccer club, and the Hoima Zebra- the GFLB gridiron team.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 1- Second Game
Group B, Matchday 3- First Game
Group C, Matchday 2- First Game
One Quarterfinal Match

Sisonke, Kitara
Sisonke, Kitara, is the capitol city in the fast growing Kitara Region of Banija. With a population around 1.2 million and growing rapidly, it is a city that is trying to make a name for itself. Just about an hour south of Istria, it is considered a 'new age' city- rapid population growth in recent years makes it a great hub for single young professionals in Banija. Its rapid rise to prominence in Banija means that it is more regularly being selected to host games at major tournaments, and the excitement is palpable. It is most well known for being home to former IFCF Champions League winners, the Kitara Athletic Association.

Keystone Stadium

Keystone Stadium(cap. 47,000) is the home of Kitara Athletic Association, the professional sporting club that has had a rapid rise alongside the city of Sisonke, as well as the Sisonke Leopards of the GFLB. The Leopards are an up and down, although have had good days recently with Wagner-Young as their QB1.

Matches Held Here
Group A, Matchday 1- First Game
Group B, Matchday 2- First Game
Group C, Matchday 3- Second Game
One Round of 12 Match

by **Demot** » Sat Jul 11, 2026 9:00 am

Demot "Dynamo" Roster

Kits

Home Away Third

Manager: Chris Gilliam, age 57
Assistant: Vivian Moody, age 58 (F)

Modifier: +3

GK: Veronica Soto, age 36 Club Demot (F)
GK: Alyssa Graf, age 25, 5'9", Tiranyus FC (F)
GK: Judith Bravo, age 28, 5'9", Parthen United (F)
LB: Elizabeth Cesar, age 26, 5'9", Club Demot (F)
LB: Brandon Fulkerson, age 24, 6'2" Santa Rosa FC
CB: John Harrison, age 31, 6'5", Club Demot
CB: Gabriel Boyle, age 33, Likewell Kirk
RB: Robert Myers, age 27, 5'10", Santa Rosa FC
RB: Steven Sellers, age 24, 5'10", Skyhaven FC
RW: William Johnson, age 33, 5'11", Club Demot
RW: Ofelia Roache, age 29, 5'8", Likewell Kirk (F)
LW: Angela Golightly, age 25, 5'8", Likewell Kirk (F)
LW: Brian Rivera, age 22, 6'2", Atalantian FC
MC: Vivian Ferreri, age 33, Mirria City(F)
MC: Wanda Kumar, age 22, 5'8", Skyhaven FC (F)
AMC: Tora Jones, age 31, 6'0", Freestone FC (F)
AMC: Carlos Amedee, age 27, 5'10", Club Demot
AMC: Alton Neville, age 23, 5'9", Bellwater Tidal Wave
AMC: Ralph Vargas, age 33, 5'8", Santa Rosa FC
ST: Hector Deleo, age 26, Club Demot
ST: William Yarbrough, age 24, 6'0", Santa Rosa FC
ST: Helen Grimes, age 24, 5'9", Likewell Kirk (F)
ST: Frances Wilder, age 31, 5'9", Tiranyus FC

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.
=================================

by **Dhemixia** » Sat Jul 11, 2026 10:00 am

Dhemixian National Football Team

Important Info

Home Stadium: Brigantine Park, a.k.a. "The Brig", cap. 54,387, located in Columbus, Dhemixia (the capital)
Manager: Boro Ouattara (BNJ)
Formation: 3-1-4-2
Trigramme: DHE

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: Y
Choose my goalscorers: Y
Godmod scoring events: Y
RP injuries to my players: Y, tg beforehand
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, tg beforehand

Style Modifier:+3

Roster
[spoiler=Starters]

Position Name Number, Height, Weight, Age, Foot
ST Randy Calhoun #5, 6'3, 215, 19, R
ST Jonathan Obisana #33, 5'11, 190, 25, R
LM Gregory Baker #14, 6'0, 195, 33, L
CM Timothy Hawkins #3, 6'3, 210, 30, R
CM Grant Clarke #10, 5'9, 190, 26, L
RM Mario Hutchinson #17, 6'1, 205, 24, L
CDM Adrian Bush #4, 6'2, 220, 29, R
CB Dominic Sanford #8, 6'4, 230, 28, R
CB Hans Grabõn #11, 6'0, 190, 19, R
CB Drew McMahon #6, 6'6, 235, 27, L
GK Wesley Williamson #99, 6'4, 210, 25, R

Set Pieces
in order from left-right:
Corners: Adrian Bush, Grant Clarke
Free Kicks: Jonathan Obisana, Dominic Sanford, Timothy Hawkins
Penalties: Timothy Hawkins, Gregory Baker
PK Shootout: Obisana, Hawkins, Sanford, Calhoun, McMahon
(if it goes over 5, everybody unused in order of Striker to Goalkeeper in the lineup)

by **Valanora** » Sun Jul 12, 2026 5:05 am

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: +3

Home Stadium: Hatire Memorial (60,000) Capri, Island of Capri, Valanora

Kits

Home Away Third

Manager

Ellzidan (F)
Age: 3415
The Drawkian elf comes into a culture that seems to fit her own way of playing and will try to pick up where Dan Eastwood and Emeline Millet left off, hopefully replicating the Euran's penchant for winning trophies. The team looks like it is set to open up a bit more under Elizidan's guidance, returning to a form of football that they are more accustomed to that it was during Millet's time at the helm. While she got her first cycle off to a good start with an appearance in the ARC Final, last cycle left a bit to be desired as the team only got to the quarterfinals despite being heavy favorites to finally win their sixth title and then followed it up with a group stage exit in the ARC. While no one would say she is on the hot seat, she will need a solid showing in this edition of the competition to bounce back from the bitter taste of disappointment last cycle brought.

Assistant Manager
Matheo Dybvik
Age: 54
A former national team centerback, Dybvik looks to be the counter balance towards Elizidan's more offensive slant, looking to ensure the team does stay reliably sturdy through the middle and on the defense. Also being a Vanorian, there is hope that he will also be able to bridge the gap in any sort of culture clash or misunderstanding for the Drawkian while she is at the helm of the Marauders.

Keepers
GK: Tobias Propst, age 30, CA Paulinthal

GK: Meline Sandanger, age 31, SC Rinaldi (F)
GK: Tanya Rinaldi, age 27, 6'0", 167 lbs, Tihon

(F)

After breaking on to the scene early with Pasargan giants CA Paulinthal, Tobias Propst has taken a firm hold of the number one shirt and will refuse to let it go with the sheer amount of skill and talent he possesses. A tall and very talented keeper with keen reflexes and instincts, there is reason to believe that he is the answer to the Marauders questions in goal for as long as he remains at the top of his game. At the start of the qualification cycle there was a bit of question marks about the quality behind Propst yet Sandenger and Rinaldi have both proven quite capable both at the club and the domestic level. Rinaldi probably is the one who will see time should Propst not be able to go, offering a bit more in the way of a sweeper keeper ability with her agility and high IQ, something that would prove quite useful in the way that the Marauders like to play, on top of having earned her stripes in the widely revered Chromatik Red League.

Defenders
LB: Alejandro Nyman, age 27, 5'9", 157 lbs, Soldarian FC
LB: William Waage, age 28, Alexia

CB: Simen Prytz, age 28, Mar Sara FC
CB: Eric Nordström, age 30, SC Rinaldi
CB: Andi Berggren, age 27, Raynor City United
CB: Kristian Achen, age 27, 6'2", 186 lbs, FK Metropola Borograd

CB: Eleanor Medrano

, age 28, FC Capri (F)
RB: Viljar Valen, age 27, Ibini FC
C/RB: Sigurd Nikolaisen, age 30, Mâ Âlâmëómë

While defense has never typically been the strength of a Vanorian team, there has been and are plenty of individually talented players who do end up playing a defender, with this group of players being no exception. Prytz and Nordström come into the starting spots and offer both competency at the back but also the ability to move the ball forward even under pressure. With Nyman on the left and Valen on the right, it means that the entire backline is a new set of starters compared to the one that played in the Finals. Nyman offers more going forward, is quite willing to get into the attack, while Valen is definitely the more reserved of the two and will only come up to support the attack if they believe it is safe to do so. Andi Berggren should be expected to be the first person off the bench if there needs to be a defensive substitution, plays quite a lot like the starting centerbacks having developed in the fluid style that Raynor City United has, while Nikolaisen's ability to play centrally or on the outside can prove useful, particularly if the team is pressing for a goal and wants a more attack willing fullback than Valen.

Midfielders
A/ML: Leandro Nyquist, age 28, Myana

LW: Mathis Hovland, age 30, Raynor City United
D/MC: Olaf Myrhe, age 30, 6'6", 220 lbs, Soldarian FC
D/MC: Sander Vestbø, age 27, Istria City FC

MC: Zack Sjöberg, age 30, FC Capri
CB/MC: Wilmer Krogsæter, age 29, Royal Jam FC

A/MC: Nova Björklund, age 27, AFC Carroll Lewiston

(F)
AMC/ST: Laborious Hawk, age 772, Myana

A/MC: Markus Jaeger, age 30, Mar Sara FC
RW: Eric Forsberg, age 27, 5'10", 168 lbs, Chromatik

RW: Gianna Narváez, age 27, 5'9", 157 lbs, FC Capri (F)

Few words can truly encapsulate the sheer amount of skill and drive that Laborious Hawk provides in the middle of the park and with the change in formation, he will likely shift to being more of a shadow striker sort of position rather than a facilitator. While not an out and out attacking or playmaking force in the middle, Zack Sjöberg does a little bit of everything well and is pretty handy in playmaking even if not elite at it , along with a winning pedigree with having developed as Pasargan giants CA Paulinthal, before moving back to the Empire with Capri. Nyquist has burst on to the scene after getting a move to Chromatika and has flourished with his playmaking abilities, partnered on the other side by another Chromatika based wingers in Forsberg who offers much of the same. Myrhe stands as an intimidating presence in the middle as the destroyer and link between the lines, with the surprise inclusion of Vestbø to be as their backup, having been battle tested in the highly attacking Banija-Farfadillis league. Hovland, Narváez, and Jaeger all offer great attacking options off the bench, Jaeger especially if the team is chasing the game.

Forwards
ST: Imre Haaland, age 33, Olympia FC

ST: Leonardo Holm, age 27, Hondo FC
ST/AMC: Drake Rinaldi, age 27, 6'3", 184 lbs, Tihon

Even now past thirty, Haaland still is scoring goals for fun and making defenders have nightmares whenever they know they have to play against him. Strong enough to hold off the more physical defenders, fast enough to get behind them, and with a good nose for goal that has developed from a young age. While no means a dominant striker in any one area, his collective game is hard to beat and will make him a force to reckon at the head of the Marauders' attack and affords Ellzidan flexibility in her approach game to game. Leonardo Holm and Drake Rinaldi are battling for the first option off the bench with Holm offering a more finesse option, blessed with an accurate shot and sheer raw pace that makes defenders quake. Rinaldi on the other hand is much more in the mold of Haaland, an all around approach that is good and with quite a lethal shot but also the ability to play more withdrawn and bring the rest of the attack into the game if that is what is needed.

Captain: Laborious Hawk
Set Piece Taker: Laborious Hawk
Penalty Taker: Imre Haaland
Right Corner: Aya Haukås
Left Corner: Aya Haukås

Tactics

A few cycles through her tenure at the helm, it is fair to say that the Vanorian public as well as the team in her charge has taken quite kindly to the Drawkian elf's tactics more than her predecessor, even if Millet had the better results. Ellzidan has tweaked her tactics slightly during her time with the Marauders, having her midfield play in a more advanced role besides a destroyer who sits in front of the defense to screen them from probing attacks and allowing the fullbacks to get forward if they desire to. There is plenty of speed and quick passing leading up to clinical finishers in the striker and false nine role that Hawk has played in this system.

by **City of Myrtle Beach** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 7:04 am

the Football Association of Myrtle Beach presents the

Myrtle Beach National Football Team: ARC 7

aka the Seagulls

THE STATS
Style modifier: +2.13
Tactics: Short passes from defense to midfield through the center, long passes from midfield to forward through the center

THE ROSTER
Head coach: Brandon Miles [MYR]
Assistant coach: Patrick Henry [MYR]
Chief of Nonsense: John Jon [MYR]

Starting XI

POS --- NAME --------------- AGE -- CLUB ---------------
CF      Luka Chukchov        24     Confederation Isidis [MIR]
CF      Craig Benson         23     Conway Wanderers FC
--------------------------------------------------------
CM      Hunter Fisher        23     North Beach FC
CM      Dimitri Vodoleyev    26     North Myrtle Beach AFC
CM      Samuel Hyde          22     Indionion Athletic [EFL]
CM      Mathew Henderson     31     Persenggalu Junggalu [BME]
--------------------------------------------------------
CB      Aaron Witt           25     Conway Wanderers FC
CB      Richard Garner       25     Pion [AUP]
CB      Keith Peck           30     North Myrtle Beach AFC
CB      Brandon Mann         22     North Myrtle Beach AFC
--------------------------------------------------------
GK      Boris Dumanovsky (C) 28     Wilmington AFC

Subs

POS --- NAME --------------- AGE -- CLUB ---------------
FW      Terrence Savage      25     Wilmington AFC
FW      Peyton Petersen      26     North Beach FC
FW      Scott Chapman        23     Marshlands AFC
--------------------------------------------------------
MF      Nicholas Leon        26     Shallotte RFA
MF      Kevin Waller         23     Georgetown FC
MF      Parker Bradshaw      30     Conway Wanderers FC
MF      Wyatt Bridges        22     Wexax United [VAL]
--------------------------------------------------------
DF      Tanner Koch          23     North Beach FC
DF      Logan Becker         23     Georgetown FC
DF      Brady Leonard        31     Lepontegu Silverarrows [ANK]
DF      Landon Myers         24     Crescent Beach FC
--------------------------------------------------------
GK      Matthew Reid         24     North Beach FC
GK      Marcus Adkins        26     Marshlands AFC

THE PERMISSIONS

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
I would prefer you choose these scorers: Petersen, Chukchov, Fisher
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (minor only)
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes (no double yellows/automatic reds)
Hand out red cards to my players: No
Godmod other events: Yes

I'm not completely opposed to things I've said no to here, but you have to ask first. Telegram me at New Fernia

by **Carpathia and Ruthenia** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 8:12 am

Carpathia and Ruthenia ARC VII Squad
(Style Mod: +2)

Formation of the Starting XI

Staff
Manager:

Brelk-Xeral Erv
Assistant Manager:

Marisa Novák

Starting Lineup
GK: Federica Antonini (20 caps/0 goals)

DF: Panni Verona (3 caps/0 goals)
DF: Szevér Naldi (20 caps/1 goal)
DF: Delia Alinari (2 caps/0 goals)
DF: Loris Kövér (20 caps/0 goals)

MF: Ottavia Lecce (20 caps/0 goals)
MF: Anastagio Brunetti (20 caps/1 goal)
MF: Lucia Vinci (7 caps/1 goals)

FW: Clara Bassi (c) (20 caps/11 goals)
FW: Róza Crocetti (7 caps/3 goals)
FW: Rebecca Pék^† (20 caps/6 goals)

Substitutes
GK: Marina Voltolini (0 caps/0 goals)
GK: Efisio Rapallino (0 caps/0 goals)

DF: Lazzaro Cino (3 caps/0 goals)
DF: Rosalba Selmone (3 caps/0 goals)
DF: Ermanno Ruzsa (4 caps/0 goals)
DF: Grazia De Marco (0 caps/0 goal)
DF: Fabrizia Buffon (0 caps/0 goal)

MF: Adél Alemagna (20 caps/0 goals)
MF: Giannino Pugliese (3 caps/0 goals)
MF: Salvatore Piccirillo (3 caps/0 goals)
MF: Franciska Büki (5 caps/0 goals)

FW: Annunciate Mondo (3 caps/0 goals)
FW: Gioachino Brunetti (0 caps/0 goals/5 U21 caps/4 U21 goals)
FW: Vida Ildiko (0 caps/0 goal)
FW: Alberto Sabbatini (0 caps/0 goal)

^† Penalty taker

........Home Kit..................Away Kit..............Goalkeeper Kit....

Other Information
Fan's Temperament: Good-natured (They will not react violently to a loss and lay siege to the host's city)
Team's Temperament: Normal (Every now and again one player might get sent off, but they are not going to hack/beat up the opposing team as a strategy)
Manager's Temperament: Positive and upbeat, they will go to bat for their players anywhere, anytime, any way, all the way.
RP Permissions: No godmodding goals or killing my players

by **Cardenao** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 12:28 pm

CARDENAO NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM SELECTION
La Furia Azule--The Blue and Golds
(Style Mod +3)

Home Kit (Produced by Dantopia): https://i.postimg.cc/fbLCWjpn/Cardenao-Home-Kit.png

Away Kit (Produced by Dantopia): https://i.postimg.cc/VL8F0cph/Cardenao-Away-Kit.png

Formation:
4-3-3 DM

GK 5

Kai Chidubem - 35 - Area Commander
Paco Ribeiro - 29 - Sweeper Keeper
Peacock Pharrell - 19 - Wonderkid Keeper
Tyrell Maxim - 22 - Catlike Reflexes
Jan Hanto Van Peksyein - 30 - PK Expert

LB 4

Moustir-Yves Almeny - 38 - Aura Defender
Jordi Nicolau Noguera - 22 - Attacking wingback
Lenny Nero - 19 - Cautiously Offensive
Trivelo Yutani - 27 - Utility Defender

CB 6

Vittorino Seve Dioli - 32 - No-nonsense Brickwall
Dylan Mathers Jr. - 19 - Passing Distributor
Jupp Hilaño - 23 - Ridiculous athlete
Arturo Gilloti - 25 - Ariel Fortress
Django Martinelli - 28 - Left Footed
Dannie Raniero - 19 - Smashing Tackles

RB 4

Fito Peru - 35 - Classic Fullback
Eugene Coltstar - 19 - Pressing Machine
Dani Pavlas - 22 - Former Winger
Lucho Osvaldo Salamanca - 24 - Lockdown Defender

DM 5

Marlo DeSantos - 19 - Regista Leader
Matheus Raja - 26 - Passing BWM
Andor Teixeira - 25 - Limited Halfback
Antonio Seasono - 23 - Anchor Man
Jasai Flores - 19 - Athletic Prospect

CM 7

Camilo Zavala - 37 - Distance Shooter
Ganiyu Sanusi-18-Vertical Smasher
Chema Baixauli-19-Metronome Passer
Renato Calogero - 24 - B2B
Navin Rajendra Yordanov - 28 - Press Resistant
Antonio Kavalier - 22 - Utility Man
Fito le Pein - 30 - Holding playmaker

AM 5

Cristiano Matsumura - 23 - Classic Ten
Koda Hristov - 20 - Free Spirit
Loyola Mansur - 28 - False Winger
Adante Toro - 25 - Shitstirring Presser
Itali Vinicho Mortajo - 21 - Shadow Striker

LW 4

Osman Artsyom - 28 - Inverted Scorer
Raimundo Moya - 20 - Creative Genius
Noa Zaldívar - 18 - Fearless Dribbler
Hector Zendejas - 25 - Sideline Athlete

RW 4

Htay Koko - 29 - Wide Playmaker
Toni Setelios - 24 - Utility Forward
Osvaldo Mourinho Seaninho Antonio Diego Mikel Bordalás Zubeldía - 27 - Defensive Winger
Sunny Marlon - 17- Athletic Freak

FW 6

Kiko Nécib - 34 - Cheeky Poacher
Lasso Smith - 28 - Pressing Forward
Federico Gauci - 19 - Desperate Finisher
Kalyn Figueroa - 21 - Athletic forward
Xavi Núñez - 21 - False 9
Álvaro Llorente - 26 - Ariel Threat

by **Siovanija and Teusland** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 6:20 pm

Siovanija & Teusland National Football Team - ARC VII

Facts

Nation Name: United Republics of Siovanija and Teusland
Short Names: Siovanija and Teusland, the United Republics
Demonyms: Siovanijan, Teus
FA: Siovanija and Teusland Football Association (STFA)
Colours: Blue and gold
Anthem: ‘High Mountain Skies’
Capital City: Borograd
Other Major Cities: St. Jakob, Stelburg, Vlaikograd, Chernovets, Felsenkirchen
Highest Domestic League: Meisterschaft
Nicknames: The Goldhorns
Style Modifier: +3

Manager: Raphael Klopfer

A new era, a new generation - new beginnings aplenty for the Goldhorns at the 7th edition of the Arrosian Regional Championship. Dominik Weissmann resigned as manager after the poor performance at World Cup 101 - he was not entirely to blame for the campaign ending in failure, with the numerous distractions and struggles going on at home certainly having its influence on the team, but he accepted that the responsibility was on his shoulders as the manager. It was the conclusion to a very successful run of form since the Goldhorns’ return to international isolation, and perhaps a snap back to reality for the national side.

Replacing Weissmann for the ARC will be none other than Raphael Klopfer. Klopfer, who was capped by the Goldhorns over 100 times in the pre-isolation era and was a stalwart centre back for the national side in his prime, has been the manager of the Goldhorns’ U21 squad, achieving strong results in the past at the Di Bradini Cup, and has since served as the STFA’s Director of Player Development. So it’s a new manager at the helm - at least for now. There is talk that FC Teussen Stelburg manager and Goldhorns legend Thorsten Kramer would potentially be interested in the national team job for World Cup 102, but that remains speculation for now. Kramer has played down the speculation, saying he is committed to FC Teussen Stelburg, but as long as Der Kaiser is not the head coach of the Goldhorns, the media will speculate that he will be the next one.

Klopfer is expected to stick to the same basic tactical style that the Goldhorns have always played - a 4-3-3 with attacking football - with some modification. He was well-regarded in his time with the U21s for his ability to organize the defence, something which will be pivotal to the Goldhorns’ chances in the ARC. Klopfer’s sides are known to build from the back, requiring the CBs to both be good on the ball, while also demanding a lot from the fullbacks and wingers to widen the pitch. In the middle, it’s typically a playmaker, a holding midfielder, and a #10 playing what domestic media likes to call ‘the Le Meji role’ after the Teus-Farf national team star takilante, Xorge Le Meji.

But Xorge will not be at this tournament - neither, in fact, will any player that featured in WC101, 100, or 99. Part of the reason Klopfer was chosen to replace Weissmann was to ‘bring about a new generation into the squad.’ So the nation’s top stars - including Einar Hackl, Xorge Le Meji, Santutxo Kramer, Mats Winter and more - have been given the summer off to rest up ahead of World Cup 102’s qualifying campaign. Instead, it’s a team made up of the best Superklasse players aged 25 and under who have never played for the national team. The goal is to give fresh faces a chance to wear the gold shirt for the first time, and to give the STFA an idea of which players can be integrated into the national team going forward. It’s an opportunity to find out who the next generation of leaders, those who will perform under pressure, and those who immediately take to the national colours are going to be. Critics accused Klopfer of ‘not taking the regional championship seriously enough’ before an important World Cup cycle, but answered as such: “It’s a competitive squad made up of some of the finest young players in the country. Most of them have played IFCF football for their clubs, and are trusted as starters in one of the top leagues in world football. They are also playing to earn a spot on the squad for the next World Cup cycle. Any suggestion that I, or these players, aren’t going to take this seriously is absurd.”

So, who to look out for on this team then? The star player is undoubtedly the captain, Martin Kaiser. The young Felsenkirchen midfielder has earned comparisons to Thorsten Kramer (to be fair, what young Teus CM hasn’t at some point?) for his ability to get forward as part of attacks, and a great vision for passes. Next to Kaiser will be Ludvik Pogacar, a big and physical player who has pocketed many an attacking player who underestimated his speed. Walter Waltz, the youngest of two brothers on the team, is best-known for his deadball ability, scoring more direct free kicks than any other player in the Superklasse in the last 2 seasons. But he’s not a one-trick pony - his bag of tricks and skill moves is deep, and he can use it with great effect against defenders alongside blistering pace. Ruprecht Benz is the latest Teussen wonderkid, having broken into the first-team squad last season and impressing with his ability to score from outside the box and cross the ball well. Rochus Werner is an excellent ball-playing centre back with leadership skills beyond his years, and has been praised by teammates for how vocal he is in organizing the defenders. He loves to try long passes and with speedy Waltz and Benz on his wing will surely be attempting many of these in this tournament. And up top, it’s Anatoly Konstantinov - who is everything but the typical Siovanija & Teusland personality. Loud, brash, often seen in designer clothes driving fancy sports cars, wears 'Anatoly' on the back of his shirt instead of his surname - he’s either loved or hated, but certainly never ignored, particularly with his excellent finishing ability. He’s not going to create chances on his own, but if the team can provide for him, even just a handful, the ball is going to the back of the net.

Without further ado, let’s review the full roster for the Goldhorns.

Goalkeepers

GK -- Heinz-Jorg Lehr -- 24y/o -- #1 -- VfL Reinbronn
GK -- Zlatko Stastny -- 24y/o -- #22 -- Energija Chernovets
GK -- Bastian Busch -- 22y/o -- #23 -- FC Rotmunde 1932

Left Backs

LB -- Simeon Bakalov -- 23y/o -- #3 -- FK Metropola Borograd
LB -- Bjorn Schnell -- 21y/o -- #13 -- 1912 Stelburg

Centre Backs

CB -- Rochus Werner -- 19y/o -- #4 -- FC Felsenkirchen 1879
CB -- Viktor Frank -- 24y/o -- #5 -- FC St. Jakob
CB -- Gernot Brand -- 23y/o -- #14 -- FC Teussen Stelburg
CB -- Valeri Zhivkov -- 25y/o -- #24 -- Olympia Borograd

Right Backs

RB -- Benno Waldvogel -- 22y/o -- #2 -- TSV Marzig
RB -- Bernhard Berger -- 24y/o -- #12 -- Marlesee 97

Centre Midfield

CM -- Martin Kaiser -- 22y/o -- #6 -- FC Felsenkirchen 1879
CM -- Ludvik Pogacar -- 20y/o -- #8 -- FK Metropola Borograd
CM -- Emil Oberst -- 19y/o -- #15 -- FC Kaiserhaven
CM -- Edvard Kastelic -- 20y/o -- #16 -- Zvezda Vlaikograd
CM -- Hannes Waltz -- 23y/o -- #25 -- FC Kaiserhaven
CAM -- Stanislav Sokol -- 19y/o -- #10 -- FK Metropola Borograd
CAM -- Soren von Sogel -- 23y/o -- #20 -- SV Preisfeld

Left Wingers

LW -- Ruprecht Benz -- 19y/o -- #7 -- FC Teussen Stelburg
LW -- Fiete Holz -- 21y/o -- #17 -- FC Rotmunde 1932

Right Wingers

RW -- Walter Waltz -- 21y/o -- #11 -- FC Kaiserhaven
RW -- Anze Skala -- 24y/o -- #21 -- Olympia Borograd

Forwards

CF -- Anatoly Konstantinov -- 20y/o -- #9 -- FK Pomorie
CF -- Egon Schroder -- 23y/o -- #18 -- 1. FC Vaihingen
CF -- Jorg Kauffmann -- 25y/o -- #19 -- VfL Reinbronn

First-choice Starting XI

Lehr; Bakalov, Werner, Frank, Waldvogel; Kaiser, Pogacar, Sokol; Benz, W. Waltz, Konstantinov

Set Pieces:

Free Kicks: Walter Waltz
Penalties: Anatoly Konstantinov, Walter Waltz, Ruprecht Benz, Martin Kaiser, Stanislav Sokol, Benno Waldvogel

Captains

Captain: Martin Kaiser
Vice Captains: Rochus Werner, Ludvik Pogacar

Kits

The home kit will be gold with black lettering and a black collar. It will feature black shorts as well as gold and black socks. The away kit will be white with gold lettering and a gold collar. It will feature gold shorts as well as white and gold socks. The goalkeeper kit will be green with gold lettering and a gold collar. It will feature green shorts as well as green and gold socks.

RP Permissions

Choose my goalscorers: Y
Choose Scoring Events: Y
Godmod Scoring Events: N
RP injuries to my players: Y, I determine length/severity
Godmod injuries to my players: N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Y
Hand out Red cards to my players: Y
Godmod Other Events: N (TG me if you want to discuss something, however)

by **Siovanija and Teusland** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 9:10 pm

Stelburger Zeitung

Politics

52-48: Where do we go from here?

Six weeks ago to the day, the people of Siovanija voted to remain in the United Republics of Siovanija & Teusland by a margin of 52.47% to 47.53%.

While it was a victory for the Unionist side, it was a result that sent shockwaves throughout the country. At the beginning of the campaign, the polling average suggested that nearly 85% of Siovanijans would vote to remain within the United Republics.

The referendum had been called by the Republic of Siovanija’s ruling Siovanijan Republican faction, led by Ruslan Karamov - the former Chancellor of Siovanija & Teusland, who had famously enacted the isolationist policies that saw the country withdraw from the international stage for a 6-year period - which won the Siovanijan regional election last year. While the party did not have a majority in the Siovanijan House, they used several tactics to pass an omnibus bill that included a guarantee of holding a referendum within 2 years.

The federal government in Stelburg immediately took the case to the High Court - arguing that the governments of the individual units of Siovanija and Teusland only had authority over limited topics, such as education and transport, within their respective polities, and certainly not the authority to hold binding independence referendums. The Court returned a decision of 6-3 that while the referendum itself would not be binding, the Siovanijan government could hold an ‘advisory referendum’ if it so wished. Karamov immediately declared a referendum, and the campaign began.

It was a campaign full of controversy and bad feeling that has thoroughly damaged the country.

Federal Chancellor Lara Hauser gave a televised speech to the nation stating that the government would not recognize the referendum no matter the result. This was largely viewed as a strategic misstep - it gave legitimacy to the separatists movement, and made many unionists less motivated to come out and vote in favour of the United Republics. Hauser did not actively campaign throughout the referendum, although several ministers from the National Democratic Union’s government did travel to Siovanija and make stops along the campaign trail. Former President Magdalena Hoskova was tapped as the leader of the unionist campaign.

Ruslan Karamov began the campaign with a rally in downtown Borograd, surrounded by green flags and banners as the symbol of the nationalist side before delivering a fiery speech aimed at ‘taking this land once again for ourselves’ and calling on Siovanijans to ‘no longer be held back by the imperialist ambitions of our neighbour to the east’. In the opening weeks of the campaign, Karamov’s fire was largely ignored. And then, everything changed.

On April 17, the Federal Court in Stelburg brought charges against Karamov for various illegal activities over the years, including campaign finance fraud, participation in organized crime, mass government spending fraud, and more. These activities had been fully detailed in the so-called ‘Buranov Dossier,’ the documents provided to the government by the former leader of the Buranov crime family on the island of Vrnovo who had turned state’s witness and accused Karamov of attempting to murder him to cover up the crimes. Karamov had denied everything, but Buranov’s files contained proof of major fraud on government contracts dating back to Karamov’s time as Chancellor.

Karamov was arrested and brought to Stelburg to stand trial. Images of him in handcuffs and a jumpsuit spread across social media, and immediately his campaign switched tactics: from fire to sympathy. Suddenly, Karamov was just a weak old man being persecuted by the Teus government for his bravery to stand up for the Siovanijan people. Karamov was kept imprisoned in Stelburg for the majority of the campaign. His ‘Letters to Home,’ written and published in major Borograd daily newspapers throughout the campaign, began to focus on offering a vision for a strong independent Siovanija and were widely popular.

Karamov was replaced as main campaigner by Domen Zajc, a younger, fresher face known for his public speaking ability. Zajc quickly became a rising star of the campaign, and was largely hailed as the winner of two televised debates on RBC Siovanija against Magdalena Hoskova - particularly his answers on economic policy and the relationship between Siovanija and Teusland post-independence - namely, that ‘we may divorce, but we still live under the same roof and share similar concerns, even if our destinies may be different’ - drew acclaim.

The race was beginning to narrow, and as it did, things grew more toxic. There were unnecessary comments from Teus personalities - “let them try it, they’ll come crawling back in 5 years” said a TeusBank deputy director at what was supposed to be a private event which attracted a huge media storm. There was the whistling of the national anthem at the Zvezda Vlaikograd v FC Teussen Stelburg football match, which had just happened to be held on the closest Sunday to Unification Day, May 4 - the only reason the anthem was played in the first place. There was the “Teusland’s Next Move” op-ed in the Marziger Volkszeitung by an ‘anonymous Teus politician’ that suggested that upon Siovanijan independence, Teusland should send its military to retain the Pomorie/Marzig region to ‘protect the Teus population from near-certain oppression,’ and amongst other incendiary ideas suggested a return of the monarchy.

Pomorie/Marzig was, unsurprisingly, the centre of this toxicity. The ‘national open wound,’ as one writer described the city over 40 years ago, remained very much open during this campaign. Administratively a part of the Republic of Siovanija, but with a 40% Teus population in the wider region, this area has been a flashpoint between the two nations for generations. Several Teus militant groups which had been active decades ago during the worst of the sectarian troubles indicated that they would return should an independence movement be declared. Graffiti with threatening messages towards both communities was found in various neighbourhoods of the city. And the famous football derby between FK Pomorie and TSV Marzig was played with no fans, police refusing to allow the event to go ahead with spectators due to the risk portfolio.

All of that tension came to a head one late summer evening in Borograd. The Siovanija & Teusland national football team was playing a World Cup qualifier game at the Olimpski-Stadion, and needed a win against little-known Airannia to keep hopes of qualification alive after a poor campaign. Supporters of the independence side had acquired a number of tickets to the game, and put on a frankly embarrassing display. The national anthem was booed prior to the whistle, Teus players were whistled every time the ball was touched, and a banner was held up saying “Forever green - never gold” in reference to the green colour symbolizing Siovanija, and the gold colour of the national team’s shirts and the Teus flag. Clearly shaken by the atmosphere, the national team slumped to an embarrassing defeat.

But the next morning, the headlines were all about the atmosphere. “National disgrace,” wrote this paper. “The Shame of Borograd” wrote the Borograd Dnevnik, condemning the actions by the fans. Passions were raised, and on RBC Teusland one panelist noted that “if this is truly how they feel, then we are better off without them,” a comment that sparked outrage in Siovanija.

On referendum day itself, everything went in a mostly orderly fashion. Karamov released one final ‘Letter to Home’ from his jail cell, extolling hundreds of years of Siovanijan history and encouraged supporters to ‘stand up for our land as we have done so many times before.’ The Unionist campaign held a ‘Rally for the Homeland’ the night before on Republic Square, with an estimated crowd of 200,000 where former President Hoskova also invoked history - that of another former President, Milan Dimitrov, who is widely viewed as the founding father of modern Siovanija & Teusland. The federal government in Stelburg largely ignored the events of the day, though at a press briefing Chancellor Hauser was asked if she would use military force to ‘maintain the unity of the country, in the event of a yes vote and a unilateral declaration of independence.’ The Chancellor responded that ‘It is not going to come to that,’ widely viewed as a noncommittal answer.

While the federal government ignored the campaign as much as it could, they could not ignore the results night - and it was not until 4am that the ‘remain’ side was finally declared as the winner. There was a clear sense of relief on former President Hoskova’s face as she spoke to supporters in Borograd after the results came in, while even in the loss, Domen Zajc noted that ‘today you have given the independence movement hope.’ The main performer, Karamov, released a final letter the next morning calling on ‘Siovanijans to keep the movement alive, no matter what is done to me, so that the next generation may be the one to win victory.’

Chancellor Hauser gave a speech the next morning, noting that after the hard-fought campaign ‘it is time for national reconciliation’ and encouraged political and societal dialogue and reform to meet many of the ‘feelings in Siovanija which clearly have been unheard until now.’ She concluded her speech with the following: “We must avoid the fiery politics of dividing the people of this united island, that drove us to war in the past, and embrace the spirit of unity and peace that brought us together as a strong and united country.”

Time will tell if the nation is capable of doing so.

In Siovanija, there is a certain brokenness. The campaign split families, divided friend groups, and caused incredible anxiety in nearly the entire population on both sides. In the separatist camp, there is a feeling of pride that they managed to achieve such a percentage in the vote - but also a sense of resignation that ‘this may have been the only chance we’ll ever have.’ In the unionist camp, there is a sense of relief at victory, but also a fear that things will never be the same again. Sofija, a 22 year old student at the University of Borograd, told us: “I voted to remain, because this is the country I grew up in and I think we are better off sticking it out together. I lost 2 friends who voted to leave and didn’t want to talk to me anymore. I’m hopeful that we can put this behind us, one day, but right now it doesn’t feel like it’s possible.”

In Teusland, there is anger and bitterness. The view in Teusland, broadly, is that the Teus nation had indulged Siovanijan nationalism and toned down its own for many, many years to preserve unity - and that this had brought the disastrous isolationist period, a gradual decline in national unity and now this, a potential breaking point. “Hauser said we have to avoid divisive politics. Who is doing the dividing? It isn’t us! If they want to break up over 100 years of unity, we will go our own way.” said Jorg, a 47 year old dockworker in St. Jakob.

Two days after the referendum, the right-wing Teus nationalist party Teusland Awaken! declared its largest single-day membership gain in history, while the Movement for the Restoration of the House of Danneberg, a monarchist group, reported a 84% increase in members in just 2 weeks after the vote. At a rally for Teusland Awaken, Erwin, 20 years old and one of those new members, told us: “Teusland cannot be held back anymore. Next time there is a vote, it will be on our side, and we will restore this country to glory.”

One week after the referendum, Ruslan Karamov was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison for his criminal activities. Aged 73, Karamov will undoubtedly spend the rest of his life in prison. Domen Zajc was elected leader of the Siovanijan Republicans and has pledged to ‘carry on building this movement, because the work is not finished until the green flag is raised above every Siovanijan home on independence day.’

Chancellor Lara Hauser had already announced that the upcoming election cycle would be her last, after 12 years as Chancellor - perhaps the most eventful term in national history, with the Sankt Konrad War, the assassination of Foreign Minister Josef Wimmer, and the Siovanijan independence crisis - opting to enter retirement. The race to succeed her as leader of the NDU is on - and it will be a race that could define how the country will move forward and deal with its national unity crisis.

So, where do we go from here? It remains unclear.

by **Loyo** » Tue Jul 14, 2026 10:11 pm

Loyo Football Team

Manager: Vasily Markov (MIR), 40
Captain: ST Ludwig Gros, 30
Formation: 4-5-1
Home Stadium: Susumu Telecommunications Stadium, Sayosona (16,000)
Kit Information: Loyo's home and away kits are simple. The home kit has a red shirt and red shorts. The shirt has a white collar with two buttons, and a small circular white band at the end of the sleeves. The away kit features a white shirt and white shorts, with a red line along the outside thigh. The shirt has a white collar with two buttons, and a small red band at the end of the sleeves. The goalkeeper's kit is orange, with abstract patterns in a greyish blue and is the only kit with the national emblem, a hammer and sickle with a half moon surrounding it on the left chest. The goalkeeper's shorts are plain black, and their gloves are blue.

Style Modifier: -2

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, limit two per game.
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes, but no more than two.
Godmod other events: No

•GK Sato Sikini, 25 (Mitsuda City Red Cloud)
•LB Vozzie Whea, 29 (Illusama I.F.C.)
•CB Feliks Asimov, 24 (Illusama I.F.C.)
•CB Victor Modena, 31 (Sokorinovas)
•RB Homer Classe, 28 (Kinnard)
•DM Padras Topea, 22 (Illusama I.F.C.)
•LM Bill Gertler, 28 (Mitsuda City Red Cloud)
•RM Hak-Kun Gok, 24 (Nambrea)
•CM Jean De Manslois, 23 (Khanheuser)
•CM Bashar Glevestian, 27 (Kinnard)
•ST Ludwig Gros, 30 (Khanheuser)

Bench/Reserve Players

•GK Sato Ubamai, 21 (Illusama I.F.C.)

•WB Carlo Remy-Menchaca, 24 (Kinnard)
•WB Riley Nomali, 29
•CB Micah Plade, 25
•CB Xue Ren, 24

•MF Teshuyi Ullabor, 21 (Sokorinovas)
•MF Ivan Borusha, 27
•MF Meidan Grishex, 26
•MF Jian Yoshin, 23

•ST Korain Booke, 24 (Nambrea)
•ST Kai Kena, 18 (Sokorinovas)

by **Valanora** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 10:03 am

The Marauders arrive in Banija as a team who could potentially be in flux after the unexpected Round of Sixteen exit last month at the World Cup Finals, the team falling in Esportiva to one of the cohosts in Paradystopia. It was a game where the team absolutely fell flat and looked like they were not up for the game whatsoever, it was one of the worst performances to a person across the entire team. The offense simply was non-existant and though their performances were far from ideal, the defense had at least had the fortitude to keep it only a single goal affair. That the wealth of the attacking talent that is at the disposal of the national team failed to make a dent against their opponents is perhaps why Ellzidan enters into the competition on the hot seat. A quarterfinals or better performance from the Drawkian elf in the Finals likely would have seen her be given an extension that at least covers the next World Cup, yet that exit was so poor that it has paused contractual negotiations between the VSC and the Drawkian. In essence the elf is playing for her job in this tournament, a tournament where the Marauders are not one of the favorites to win it all.

There has been a lot of turnover of the roster for this regional championship, perhaps a sign of desperation on the part of the Drawkian, perhaps a sign that she has confidence that the team will get the results to have her get at least a one cycle extension and is trying to bleed in new blood to the team. Many of the old heads are gone from this roster with the only notable exceptions being of course the legendary captain in Laborious Hawk and perhaps in a bit of controversy Imre Haaland at the head of the attack. At thirty-three, the striker does not have many years left at the top of his game and might already be on the downward slope, the lack of bite in the exit game might have been the first of many. The average age of the starting eleven, if you exempt Hawk, has dropped nearly three years with the changes made to the predicted starting eleven, with most starters being twenty-seven. Eric Forsberg and Leandro Nyquist get a chance to really shine on the wings and show that they can drive the team forward in the attack and supply the service that Hawk and Haaland will need to score plenty of goals.

There are a few surprising inclusions in the roster, perhaps most notably is Sander Vestbø from Istria City FC, who as a destroyer coming out of a normally quite offensive league like the Banija-Farfadillis joint league is a surprise. Gianna Narváez and Alejandro Nyman getting called up to the squad, the latter even getting slotted as a likely starter, during a summer where they have transferred back to the Premiership merits a bit of discussion. The rightback continues to look like a bit of an issue as fullbacks in general have been a long standing problem position for the national team to see develop to a respectable standard that aligns with the midfield and attacking talent. However with Tobias Propst in net behind them, having one of the best ever seasons as a keeper with twenty clean sheets in the Pasargan SuperLiga, perhaps not having the absolute best defenders is not that huge a worry. The team though will definitely want to carry on from the World Cup where they were one of the better defensive teams though and try to ease some of the pressure that is put on the attacking four players to generate tons of goals to secure the win.

Joining the Marauders in Banija will be Fort McKinley, Equestria, and Milchama with Fort McKinley whom the Marauders are going to be the first to play in Group B. Being ranked third in the region, the team comes in as the favorite of the group but seventh ranked Milchama will fancy their chances, especially considering they famously knocked out the Marauders en route to winning an ARC title. An ARC title is something that the Marauders do not have despite having been in the Final of the regional championship multiple times and if Ellzidan managed to rectify that situation this edition it would definitely lead to her being comfortable in her position for the near future. Equestria is a far cry from what they used to be a few decades ago and should be a near guarantee of three points and given the way that this tournament is set up, should be enough to see the team through if they get the upset bug against the other two teams. Yet with the lingering feeling of disappointment from last month's World Cup exit and the feeling being a bit disrespected due to the lack of a title here in Arrosia, this team will want to go through as winners of the group and not barely squeaking by.

by **Demot** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 11:19 am

Chris Gilliam enters into the ARC two years removed from a up and down performance in the Eternal Empire in the last edition of the tournament, winning its first two group stage games but then losing to Banija to finish the group stage and losing to Milchama in extra time in the first knockout round. It was a promising start to that tournament that had looked to get the Dynamo to another potential quarterfinal performance but those hopes were dashed in the cruelest way. Entering into his late fifties, there is no promise that Gilliam will be around in two years time when the eighth edition of the tournament comes around and he has to enter the tournament with one eye on potential retirement. Football not being the force it once was in the nation, going into the sixties as a manager really did not have the same sort of appeal that it might have a century ago when the Dynamo were contending deep in the World Cup knockouts, not content now to merely participating in the regional championships both at the club and international level.

The fact that there was a lot of roster turnover probably weighs heavily on the manager heading into this tournament, with three or so players who likely would not see the team in two years time either. It has a feel of a team who is on the brink of massive turnover, even more than what happened to this version of the team compared to the one that was on the field in Valanora. If this was going to be his last tournament in charge of the Dynamo, then at least he could use that to motivate the squad to try and give him a heck of a send off into the sunset, with the goal of making the Quarterfinals feeling ambitious but certainly achievable. The squad enter ranked as the tenth best team in Arrosia and a few fortunate results going their way would make making the final eight of the tournament quite the achievable feat. However that was going to require the entire team to put in a huge effort to overcome what has to be one of the least favorable draws that they could have been given, heading to Banija and into the jaws of a group of death who will have absolutely no qualms about chewing them up and spitting them out.

Hector Deleo is going to be the figure that gets the most attention, fresh to the squad and thrust straight into the starting lineup but the twenty-six year old striker has been at the forefront of everything Club Demot has done right at the club level to be dominating the Pride League over the last few seasons. The mighty Likewell Kirk has missed out on the title for multiple editions now with Club Demot having won multiple titles in a row and Deleo has been scoring goals for fun in the domestic league, has won the golden boot for two seasons in a row. Being the focal point of the attack for the Dynamo is going to be a huge step up in pressure and responsibility as well as the level of the competition that he will be going up against, yet there has been nothing so far to show that he can not handle the load that is going to be thrust upon him. If the service is there and if the defense is able to play well enough that the squad need not be chasing three or four goals a game to have to get the win, then Deleo and the rest of the attack should have the Dynamo in every game with a shout of pulling a result.

That will be put to the test early and often as the Dynamo start their campaign in Banija against their neighbors and fellow SFPL members in thirteenth ranked Busoga Islands, fresh off an appearance in the World Cup Final where they nearly won the entire thing against Audioslavia. However due to the squad not participating in the last edition of the ARC, they did not receive any ranking points and are in the third pot, the second best ranked third pot team behind Quebec. They are a team in form, they are a team in the ascendancy, and they are a team who are going to have a lot of local support as well as just general report with the location. Demot should have some support in the stands as well with the relative short distance between the Dominion and Banija but it pales in comparison to Busoga. And if the team was not already up against it, they then get to take on the the best team in the region and one of the best in the world over the last decade in Squornshelous, before finishing off the group stage with twenty-sixth ranked Gucci Republic. It is a group that could break Demotian hearts but it is also a chance for the Dynamo to prove that they belong in and among the best of the region even if they do not partake in the World Cup.

by **Cardenao** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 1:20 pm

THE CARDENAOAN CORRESPONDENT
ARC 7 Squad Preview—Read On If You Dare

Goalkeepers

In some ways this is a wide open area of the team, in many ways it’s a position where the plan of succession seems to be quite clear. Once a former wonderkid, then a long serving member of the National Team, now an elder statesman of the game, Kai Chidubem once again trots out as the #1 for La Furia Azule. Though perhaps not quite as athletically impressive as he was in his prime, the 6’3 shot stopper instead boasts tremendous control of his area and commands his defense to shut down threats before they can materialize…that he’s still the man in 1v1 situations doesn’t hurt his claim to be the #1. This tournament though might see out with the old, in with the new come to be once more as the rising talent of Peacock Pharrell won’t be denied much longer. The 19 year old is a World Cup champion at the Under-18 level and it’s clear to see why: to be that young, 6’5 with exceptional reflexes and positional awareness…the lad’s been playing like a veteran goalkeeper since making his debut three years ago. It’s clear the starting position will one day be his but it is not yet that day.

Besides, there’s a Paco Ribero sized man standing ahead of him. While Peacock Pharrell is the future, there is no denying the expertise of PR98 as the complete modern sweeper keeper; he’s exceptional with the ball at his field, a solid athlete in his own right as he sprints up to midfield to clear errant passes. Is it dangerous? Yes. Is it reckless? Yes. Does it pay off most most the time? Yes. Welcome to the 50-man ARC team. The rest of the goalkeeping room is made up of 22 year old Tyrell Maxim, the young cat has the reflexes of one as it seems he can get down to the ground in a split second, react to the most rapid glancing headers, and shift his feet to meet a deflected shot. Tyrell doesn’t offer much beyond that but….having fantastic reflexes and making good saves is not a bad combination for a goalkeeper! The fifth and final man in the room is Jan Hanto Van Peksyein, the 30 year old is absolutely massive at 6’7 with an even longer wingspan and he’s here for a very obvious reason…man is an excellent penalty kick shot stopper. He’s decent as a goalkeeper aside from that, though largely disappointing relative to his stature. It seems unlikely he’ll get a start this tournament but there could be a moment where a penalty specialist might come in handy.

Left backs

Another familiar face for longtime fans of the Blue and Golds as Moustir-Yves Almeny leads the team out of the tunnel. At 38 years young it’s remarkable to see the captain dominating the left flank like a man many years his junior, but even Moustir-Yves has admitted he is very much in the twilight of his career. An impeccable leader who knows everything there is to know about defending his position and he’s played against every type of attacker there is; he might not be at his athletic peak but his knowledge of the game is unbeatable. Backing the captain up is 22 year old Jordi Nicolau Noguera, the fleet footed sprinter out of Sareña. He’s far from the most competent defender but Jordi was made to bomb forward from deep. Good dribbling, great sense for attacking space, seems to connect well with his attacking partners; Jordi is a fantastic option to overload defenses with packet runs from deep. The battle to succeed Captain Almeny is pretty wide open but Jordi Noguera seems to have an early leg up.

The third name on the list is 19 year old Lenny Nero, the young lad is another name from the U18 World Cup winning side and definitely won’t be the last. Young Lenny offers a much more tempered version of Jordi in that, while the youngster is capable on the attacking side of things, he operates much more cautiously than his older compatriot and is definitely more defensively inclined. Patient in the tackle, smoothly swiveling his hips and feet to match his mark, commanding the air and capable of whipping in early, dangerous crosses. It’s clear he’s not quite ready for prime time but being a part of this squad will be good for his development. Finally we have Trivelo Yutani who, despite the fun name, brings an entirely no-nonsense approach to the defensive line. Capable of playing on both sides of defense and in the center, the 27 year old goes about his business in a calm but cautious fashion. Rarely pushing forward into the attacking half, the 6’1 defender loves using his anticipation to kill an attack before it begins and lunging in for a last-ditch tackle in equal measure.

Center backs

Once again, a long serving name leads us off in the form of Vitto Dioli who’s been turning out for the Blue and Golds for 14 years. Now 32, the centerback might be at the tail end of his prime but still retains the majority of his impressive pace, dominating strength, and world class vertical ability along with the calm reading of the game you would expect from a veteran. There are questions of his ball playing ability, as there always has been, yet here stands Vitto Dioli once more. Fortunately his initial partner happens to be the most exciting ball playing CB in a generation; 19 year old Dylan Mathers Jr. son of the former national team captain and a World Cup winning captain in his own right at the youth level. At 6’1 he has good size for the position and he has exceptional open field speed and an innate ability to get his foot stuck in at the perfect moment. What really sets him apart is his maturity and reading of the game, Dylan Mathers Jr. plays the game like a ten-year league veteran, much more composed than you’d expect from a teenager: sky is the limit for this kid.

23 year old Jupp Hilaño brings something a little different to the defense and that’s being an absolute world-class athlete across the board. He runs faster than you, he jumps higher, he dominates duels, he shrugs off the strongest challengers, Jupp is an absolute animal on the pitch. Now, in terms of technical ability, he’s a bit of a donkey. He’s decent at the basic things but his athleticism often writes checks his actual football ability can’t cash. Still only 23 so there is room for improvement but even if Jupp remains what he is for the next seven years, that’ll mean being one of the best pure Cardenaoan athletes in that time. Following him up is another physical specimen, this time being 6’6 Arturo Gilloti who is an absolute monster in the air. Built like a brick shithouse, capable of jumping out of the water like a salmon, you better watch out when Big AG comes stomping up the pitch on a corner kick or when he’s marking you on the defensive side of things. Gilloti is a wall…and a tall one.

The final two options are Django Martinelli and Dannie Raniero. Starting with the 28 year old Django, La Furia Azule have a dependable left footed option at center back who is pretty good at everything without necessarily being exceptional at anything. Aside from being left footed. Which is important. Finally, we have 18 year old Dannie Raniero, who is another member of that World Cup winning youth side. Young Dannie is a departure from the typical Cardenaoan defensive prospect who is comfortable with the ball at his feet in the sense that Raniero is most comfortable with the ball NOT at his feet and instead prefers smashing into his opponent. A true master of the dark arts even in his young age, Dannie Raniero just seems to get away with things. Will that be enough to earn him a long stint in the Blue and Gold? Only time will tell.

Right backs

Stop me if you’ve heard this across every defensive position so far…we got a national team veteran starting! My man Fito Peru is holding it down yet again at RB, the 35 year old has been there and done it all, while he might no longer have the ridiculous pace or energy to bomb down the right flank endlessly. What he does bring though is more veteran leadership across the defensive line and, more to the point, now plays as a more classy fullback…measured in attack, commanding in defense, and ready to usher in the next line of Cardenaoan players. Running deputy will appropriately be a player drawing comparisons to a certain young Fito Peru, and that is 19 year old Eugene Colstar. The youth World Cup winner is like a bullet out of a rifle from defense as he pillages the right flank. Endless energy, precise passing, smart understanding of attacking movement, it’s easy to see why the young lad has staked an early claim to start at the World Cup proper.

The understudies to 1 and 2 are Dani Pavlas and Lucho Osvaldo Salamanca; a duo who bring completely different approaches to the position. Pavlas at least enters the tournament as the third option and that’s due to the 22 year old bringing a great attacking threat to the position. As a winger turned fullback, Dani has exceptional ball control, dribbling, and final third production relative to his position. Sure, he occasionally gets caught out in defense but typically has speed to burn in recovery and the attacking output he brings could be game changing under the right circumstances. Meanwhile Lucho Salamanca is the polar opposite, a lockdown defender who hates attacking but revels in running his opponent’s day. Long, spidery legs help him dive in and poke the ball away while his constant pressure and shit talking off the ball slowly wears away his opponent. So that’s the room!

Defensive Midfield

The first name on the midfield list belongs to a young man entirely deserving of the position and that is Marlo DeSantos. The 19 year old vice-captain of the U18 World Cup winning side that I will certainly continue to reference brings a level of measured calm and understanding of the game way beyond his young age. An incredibly creative playmaker who knows how to make his choir sing, DeSantos knows how to pull the strings and set the tempo from deep. In another life he’d be an incredibly exciting 10, in this one he’s free to work his magic from deep. Even in his young age, it’s a hard act to follow Marlo DeSantos but the task has initially been given to Matheus Raja. Mr. MR brings a much more defensive oriented approach to the position as he’s the best nearly-pure ball winning midfielder in Cardenao these days. Raja is an absolute hound dog for the ball, chasing it down relentlessly and doing everything short of murder in his quest to keep a clean sheet. When I say he’s a nearly-pure BWM, I am of course referring to the fact that Raja can actually pass the ball to an acceptable level. Typically these sorts of midfielders can barely be trusted to recycle possession but Mr. MR is decently capable of initiating attacks from deep. Which makes him an obvious second option.

As for the backup options, the first is somewhat similar to Matheus Raja in the sense that he’s somewhat the opposite. Andor Teixeria is very limited in attacking contributions but reads the defensive side of the game to near perfection. When to step, when to press, when to drop, when to tackle…as a halfback the 25 year old serves a vital role in dropping deeper to act as false centerback of sorts, allowing the fullbacks to push higher and occupy attacking space. A solid tactical option to have. Next up on the depth chart is 23 year old Antonio Seasono, who once again occupies a ‘same, same, but different’ approach to the position. Where Andor tends to drop deep to join the actual defensive line, Seasono instead defends by remaining in the midfield to shield the defensive line and break up opposing plays. He prefers not to venture too far forward, opting instead to lay off simple passes for his more creative teammates. It ain’t pretty work but someone has to do it. The final name called up to defensive midfield is Jasai Flores, who brings something completely different to the position. The 19 year old is an incredible athlete, capable of covering every blade of grass on the pitch three-times over and he’ll still be sprinting across the field. He’s tremendous in the air and plays with a fair bit of recklessness as he throws his body around the field. Jasai leaves a lot to be desired from the technical perspective but you can’t teach his level of athleticism so hope remains high for this kid’s future.

Center Midfield

As we break out of the defensive side of things and we head into a Cardenaoan midfield that is traditionally known for being a blend of tempo-setting pass masters and tireless athletes…. and the first name on the sheet is another one very familiar to CardeNT followers because it’s Camilo Zavala. Far removed from his back to back to back seasons with 15+ goals and 15+ assists, the 37 year old midfield maestro is turning out one last time in the Blue and Gold. While he no longer has that elite burst of speed he would use to smash through the line, Zavala’s vision and ability on the ball is as keen as ever; expect the attacking play to flow through him and don’t be surprised when he lines up a shot from deep, there are none who do it better in Cardenao. The second name on the list is the first of two U18WC winners and the MVP of that historic championship run. Still only 18, Ganiyu Sanusi is a new type of midfielder to the national team. Tall at 6’3 and powerfully built even in his youth, Ganiyu is an exceptional athlete with world class speed and the technical ability to match. He has the dribbling of a flair-filled winger, the vision and passing of a midfield veteran, and he has a mean long-range shot on him too. He’s very capable defensively too but has yet to take advantage of his skills there to become a truly complete midfielder. He is at his best with the ball at his feet because he will find a way through the lines and that is an incredibly valuable skill to have. The third midfield option is Sanusi’s midfield partner from that youth championship side I’ve referenced 17 times so far…it’s Chema Baixauli and he might’ve been created in a lab to compliment Sanusi. The 19 year old is a cool headed pass master, setting the tempo for his team and dictating the pace of play. At only 5’7, many wrote him off in youth football but it didn’t take long for his football intelligence and processing speed to be noticed. Regularly posting 100+ passes a game, it’s not about the volume of passes but what he does with them. Subtly speeding up the tempo of the game or recycling possession to kill it off, metronomic passing before pinging off a perfectly weighted ball…Chema is an architect and a visionary from midfield.

Which brings us to the four ‘backups’ though truthfully nobody is quite sure what the midfield composition looks like. First up is 24 year old Renato Calogero who plays the position as a true box-to-box midfielder. Not a lot of fluff or frills to his game, just old fashioned running up and down the length of the pitch. Top lad. Next is Navin Rajendra Yordanov from Eastern Cardenao, who operates in a similar yet different role as Chema Baixauli: where Chema controls the tempo of the game with his passing, Yordanov does so with his press-resistant dribbling. The 28 year old is a master at driving the ball through challenges to advantageous areas of the pitch to set up attacks, or using his beefy body and close control to send the opposing midfield into a spin cycle before picking out a cheeky pass, or retaining possession in the defensive space just long enough for an outlet pass to be found. Where Chema is the metronome, Navin is the release valve.

Which brings us to the final two names in central midfield, the first is Antonio Kavalier who, despite his adventurous last name, does bring a bit of caution to the position. The 22 year old can do a little bit of everything and possesses the tactical knowledge to fit pretty much any sort of midfield role without necessarily excelling in any of them. He’s 6’ flat, strong with decent speed, he can pass, shoot, dribble decent enough, knows when to stand off his man and when to get a tackle in, has the discipline to stay back when others go forward but has ‘the sense’ for when to burst forward late into the box for a chance on goal. Mr. Do it all, every team needs one of those. Last but not least is Fito le Pein who operates as a no fuss holding playmaker. Never much interested in smashing forward in attack nor busting his ass getting back on defense, doubly so now that he’s 30 years young, but Fito doesn’t have to thanks to his excellent positioning and reading of the game. Opposing attacks simply don’t happen with him parked right where they want to go, and when he gets the ball at his feet it’s like watching an artist at work as he methodically identifies his target, sets up the angle, and delivers the exact pass that the situation requires. Will he see much time on the pitch considering the wealth of younger, more athletic options? It doesn’t seem likely but you can be assured there will be a situation that requires his particular brand of lackadaisical control.

Attacking Midfielders

The attacking midfield position is one typically ignored by La Furia Azule as managers have traditionally opted for a pair of deeper lying center midfielders; that this team has a devoted AM section can at least potentially indicate some new tactical options that might be tested during the ARC competition. First up is Cristiano Matsumura, the 23 year old from Alexandria is the classic number ten. Most at home between the lines, given the freedom to attack and dictate play without requiring too much defensive work and it’s all built off his close control, vision for unorthodox passes and angles of attack, and an excellent early whipped cross through the lines. I will be honest, I think Matsumura’s hold on the ‘starting’ position is tenuous at best because, while he is good at being a 10, we have other players who fulfill 10 functions better than he does. Nothing is certain though! Backing him up is Koda Hristov who is one of the players I have in mind that can surpass Cristiano Matsumura. At 20 years old, Koda is still young but plays the game with a level of cerebral awareness that you’d expect from Camilo Zavala. At 5’6 the youngster has exceptional balance and dribbling ability, weaving his way around the pitch and embarrassing anyone who tries to stop him. The functional difference between Koda and Cristiano is that while Cristiano likes staying in the central hole like a true number 10, Koda is more of a free roamer across the attacking sector. You’ll find the left footer drifting out on the right wing, cutting in on his preferred foot to devastating effect or chilling on the opposite wing to create attacking opportunities or driving and shooting from the center. His movement creates many potential overload possibilities but also means there’s a constantly shifting defensive hole the rest of the team has to adapt to. The third name on the depth chart brings something a bit different to the position as 28 year old Loyola Mansur operates as a false winger of sorts, typically starting off in a wide area before drifting into the half-spaces and causing all sorts of marking problems for the defense. Should the defensive midfielder pull wide to defend him? A fullback tuck narrow? A centerback stepping up to deny him space? Each of these opens up a weakness and a new angle of attack, which Loyola Mansur has the ability to exploit and punish.

The first of the final two names on the list of midfielders is one of my favorite players on the team, 25 year old Adante Toro. This dude is a right pain in the ass, an absolute bulldog who spends the full nintey minutes talking shit, winding you up, and generally being the prime example of ‘I’d love you if you were on my team but damn are you a bastard!’ Always hungry to control the game, always eager to get in the face of opponents who tower over his small 5’8 frame, the first to go to bat for a fouled teammate, there’s no wonder he’s every teammate's favorite player. Adante Toro will die for you, especially if it means pissing off the other team in the process. Which brings us to the last midfield option: Itali Vinicho Mortajo. The funky named 21 year old hails from one of the countless unnamed micro islands dotting Cardenao’s coast and brings pure goal scoring to the AM position. Less of a passer, barely a dribbler save for a few go to moves, but Itali is completely a killer. One of the most accurate shooters on the team, Itali makes his money receiving the ball in the 10 position, taking a touch of two to steady and drive the ball forward, before ripping a shot from range. He is dangerous when arriving into the box and with the ball in the penalty area, but it really is his long range skills and follow-up crashing ability that makes him so dangerous. Given the team’s emphasis on possession and interlocking play, it’s hard to imagine a valuable midfield spot getting handed to a shadow striker but it’s also easy to think of a scenario where he’ll be one of the firsts off the bench. And those are our midfield options!

Left Wingers

The first of our attacking options is 28 year old Osman Artysom, a silky footed winger who loves cutting in on his stronger right foot before working out his goal scoring options. Osman is a classic inverted scorer who can provide for his teammates but is usually looking out for his own avenue to glory. He is a solid player with plenty of experience, but he doesn’t quite have the starting player air to him. Maybe I’ll be proven wrong but I wouldn’t be surprise if he is quickly overtaken. The next option is Raimundo Moya who is a wildly creative player with the ball at his feet. Sharp, precise dribbling, eyes that see openings before they occur, a foot that can seemingly deliver every kind of pass imaginable…and the 20 year old is slowly showing an increasingly deadly eye for goal. The only thing lacking is elite athleticism, he’s quick but not special, fast but will be caught, he has incredible balance and agility but is basically useless in the air on account of being 5’6. Still though, the future is incredibly bright for this youngster.

The third name on the depth chart sees us return to plundering the Under-18 World Champs, this time for 18 year old Noa Zaldívar. One of the youngest starters on that team, Noa is a fearless dribbler who looks to take on his defender again, again, and again. The physiological aspect of this is immense, nothing like being a 12 year professional and getting taken to town repeatedly by a skinny, spindly teenager. Welcome to football! The final third work definitely needs to be improved but Zaldívar is already one of the best pure dribblers and attacking wide threats the Blue and Golds can call up. The final option on the left wing is Hector Zendejas from New Cardonia. The 25 year old is a superb athlete who is most comfortable hugging the sideline and blazing up the flank before whipping a cross in. Zendy is capable of cutting inside and getting a shot of his own off but he’s noticeably played better when allowed to just be a rocket fueled winger….so let him be one!

Right Wingers

Leading us off with a commanding grip on the starting position is the only returning member of prior national team squads who is under the age of 30…it’s Htay Koko. Initially a wonderful dribbler with an exceptional burst of pace who then added an eye for assists, then the occasional goal defined by his technical excellence to the player Htay Koko now is at 29 years of age: an all rounded player who can dribble, score, and assist in equal measure. At the absolute peak of his powers, I expect Htay Koko to finally take the step to superstar and team leader. Backing him up is a player in a similar vain, though a physically different profile and more general approach to the game. Toni Setelios is a real utility player who is comfortable in any position along the attacking trident. He’s 6’2 and powerfully built which helps him bully shorter fullbacks and hold his own against stronger center backs. Setelios is a bit of a jack-of-all-trades, he can do a little of it all but rarely does he produce world class moments.

The third option out right is something completely different and that’s in the shape of Osvaldo Mourinho Seaninho Antonio Diego Mikel Bordalás Zubeldía. Traditionally attacking players are known for their attacking capabilities. Not for Big OMSAD. The man from Eastern Cardenao, as his overly long name gives away, the 27 year old is obsessed with defending from attacking positions. While you often hear of wingers turned fullbacks, you rarely hear of things the other way around and that’s what the Long Named Lad brings to the side. Relentless hustling and off the ball pressure, a great ability to trap his opponent into the corner flag area, and just enough attacking skill to keep the offense moving. He is a very confusing player but there will likely be moments for him to shine. The final wide option is U18NT star and the adopted child of the nation after losing his mother in a terror attack during the tournament is Sunny Marlon. Only 17 years old and already had to deal with more than most people experience in their whole life, Sunny is still very rough around the edges but it’s his physical profile that earned him a spot in the 50. At 6’3 and already nearly 180lbs of solid strength, you’d be forgiven for thinking the lad belonged on the basketball court or some track and field freak. Mind boggling quick with the first step of someone far smaller, he can jump out of the gym and overpower fully grown men with years of experience added to their frame, he’s a classic Cardenaoan dominating athlete complete with comparatively disappointing technical ability. To be clear, he is far better a dribbler/shooter/creative passer than anyone his frame has any right to be, but the end product just isn’t there yet and that’s reflected in a lack of goals and assists. That being said, the kid is still 17 and growing into his body, it’s the potential that makes him so enticing.

Forwards

We finally arrive at the top of the spear and I will try to make this quick! Leading us off is another familiar face and another one in the tried and true Cardenaoan wonderkid to being really good to being not quite good enough to ultimately finishing with a respectable but somewhat disappointing career….it’s Kiko Nécib. While the 34 year old doesn’t have that elite burst of speed anymore, Kiko certainly retains world class poaching instincts to sneak along the line and craft cheeky scoring opportunities for himself. If he gets a chance to curl one towards the far post, odds are damn good he’ll be celebrating a goal a second later. Backing him up is a former ‘in the NT, out of the NT’ player: Lasso Smith. Run fast, run hard, and make the defense’s day as miserable as possible with constant off the ball pressure. Lasso is a hound dog let loose to run the ball down and lead the defensive effort from the front. Plus he has a tendency for just leathering the ball into the back of the net so you love to see that! The third of the primary options is 19 year old Federico Gauci, the final member of the U18WC winning team to make the provisional national team pool. He was the team’s leading goal scorer and it’s easy to see why as the lad plays as a sort of desperate finisher…he needs to score goals and will do anything he can to get a chance at that. He’s got fantastic technique which helps him pull off some impressive off-balance, falling, or otherwise unconventional finishes.

The first of the supporting trio is Kalyn Figueroa, another one of those crazy Cardenaoan athletes who can also kinda kick the ball! The 21 year old can perhaps lay claim to the title of fastest player in the squad which is perfect for starting runs from deep to blaze past the defensive line. A well-timed offsides trap can make things difficult for him but Kalyn is just going to keep coming at the line for the full 90 minutes (or however long he gets off the bench)! The next name on the depth chart is Xavi Núñez, also 21 years old. The Kid from Küsbon, the nickname seemingly every young athlete of note from Küsbon is labeled with, brings something much different to the position as Xavi Núñez operates as more of a false nine compared to a more traditional striker’s profile. Great close control, a sharp eye for passing, and a precise left foot help him whip off powerful shots. Basically useless in the air but he makes up for it. Which brings us to our final player, Álvaro Llorente! He is the team’s Big Man, a 6’5 athletic target forward who has the strength to hold up play and the vertical and heading ability to dominate in the air. He is not the first option but he is a very capable one when La Furia Azule need a goal against physically exploitable opponents.

And there you have it, a barely understandable and entirely too long review of our new 50-man roster!

by **Busoga Islands** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 2:53 pm

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: Emeline Millet(Ko-oren). 63 years old. Millet has a decorated resume, both at the club level and the international level. How many managers have taken two different nations to the World Cup Final, eh? Just 5 cycles apart, too!

For club, it is driving Aminey CS towards success at the club level. At the international level, she brought Valanora all the way to the World Cup Final. While getting let go, the then President of the country, Delbin Kasekende (who was, and remains, in charge of BISA), originally contributed money out of his own pocket to help have a big enough salary pool to pay a manager of her caliber, ahead of World Cup 98 Qualifying. She was to be in charge of a critical three cycles- Kasekende had launched 'Project 100', to make sure the Busoga Islands qualified for its first ever World Cup at World Cup 100. Of course, at World Cup 98, the Busogans had never once been to the World Cup Finals.

Of course, the plan, and the hire, went spectacularly- they stunned the footballing world by Qualifying directly for World Cup 98, Busoga's first ever Qualification- and even making the KO stages while they were at it. While they missed World Cup 99, which was in the neighborhood (Banija/S&T/SRS), they stormed to direct qualification for World Cup 100, and not only went to the knockout stages, but even won a game there- before bowing out in the Round of 16, on penalties. In the top 20 for the first time, Millet has been extended with a hefty pay raise (no longer coming out of the President's pocket, but from commercial revenue), and her task is simple- find out whatever Busoga's ceiling is in this sport, and smash it to bits.

The minimum expectation for World Cup 101, despite chaos surrounding the national team, was simple- qualify by any means necessary. And the team qualified directly, finishing second in a tough group, behind Qusmo. But it was the Finals where Busogan football was changed forever. They not only won their group- they made one of, if not the singular, most stunning runs to the World Cup Final that international football has ever seen. Just upset after upset- downing nations like Pasarga, The Holy Empire, Indusse, and The Kytler Peninsulae all in the knockout stages, all in 90 minutes- to reach the first final in the nation's history. While Audioslavia triumphed in one of the ugliest finals that we've ever seen (not as ugly as World Cup 99's, however), it was a tremendous run for Busoga.

It meant so much- but much remains to be answered. Was it simply a miracle run, one to be treasured in the movies? Or was it the start of something new- the announcement of the Busoga Islands as a true power in international football? It remains to be seen- but Busoga's performance at the ARC will go a long way in answering that question. Despite recent World Cup success, they've never made the knockout stages of the Arrosia Regional Championships in 5 tries, and they didn't even enter ARC VI- so despite coming off of a World Cup Final appearance, that will be the bare minimum goal for MIllet's side.

Senior Assistant Manager: Delbin Kasekende Jr. 51 years old. Former NT player and captain. His father is Delbin Kasekende Sr.- who is the NT's first ever captain as a goalkeeper, a former Banijan NT goalkeeper pre-Busogan independence, and the former President of the country- as well as the former President of BISA. Actually talented player despite his background, but known as a hothead- known famously for getting suspended for getting into a streetfight in the middle of the AOCAFs.
Captain: Coro Dibahari
Alternate Captain: Abu Sesay

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: -1

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 ARC VII

Starters: 4-4-2.
The professional soccer clubs on the Busoga Islands are all part of the Banijan soccer pyramid.
Players who do not play within the Banijan soccer pyramid are bolded.
Players who are italicized are making their NT debut in ARC VI
BSL = Banijan Soccer League, the second from top-flight for Banija & the Busoga Islands. The third tier is the Busogan National League, consisting exclusively of teams on the Busoga Islands.
S-FPL is the Shango-Fogoa Premier League, the joint top flight for Banija, Busoga Islands, and Farfadillis.
GK #1 Ulus Talay. Age 35. Starter for Dukuma SC in the BSL.
LB #4 Mohammed Bota. 32 years old. Comes off the bench for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
CB #5 Afassiv Mansur. 28 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the S-FPL.
CB #3 Fajkat Balli. 32 years old. Starter for TK Korp Mynda in the S-FPL.
RB #16 Zaki al-Hassan. 23 years old. Starter for the Busembe Timberwolves in the S-FPL.
LM #7 Abu Sesay. 29 years old. Starter for Istria City FC in the S-FPL.
LCM #6 Atum Al-Abib. 22 years old. Comes off the bench for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
RCM #8 Coro Dibahari. 31 years old. Starter for Kitara AA in the S-FPL. Banijan/Busogan dual-national, unlikely to get Banijan callup so plays for Busoga. Captain
RM #17 Isa Kujabi Jr. 29 years old. Starter for the Hoima Warriors in the S-FPL. His father is a former Busogan NTer.
RS #9 Ayben Uzun. 26 years old. Starter for Istria City FC in the S-FPL.
LS #12 Omar Jallow. 22 years old. Banijan/Busogan dual-national, chose to play for Busoga. Starter for Mukeruzi United in the BSL.
Bench
GK #35 Kutalmis Uzun. Age 21. Starter for the Lakiska Kangaroos in the BSL.
GK #23 Zeynel Tas. Age 33. Starter for Bwubanza City SC in the BSL.
RB #2 Qasim Gamouh. 29 years old. Starter for Duntho SC in the S-FPL.
CB #18 Ilhan Cagri. 20 years old. Starter for Kitara AA in the S-FPL.
CB #19 Ali Al-Hussein. 27 years old. Comes off the bench for the Busukuma Force in the S-FPL.
LB #14 Ozge Bozr. 23 years old. Starter for Dukuma SC in the BSL.
CM #16 Aghbalu Sulaiman. 25 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the S-FPL.
CM #23 Erdal Aydin. 32 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the S-FPL.
RW #20 Unlem Olmez. 29 years old. Starter for Lakiska SC in the S-FPL.
LM #39 Atakul Saylan. 22 years old. Starter for Capitol City FC in the S-FPL.
ST #11 Uthman ibn Jahwar. 25 years old. Starter for Dukuma SC in the BSL.
ST #90 Unlem Kurt. 18 years old. Starter for the Lakiska Kangaroos in the BSL.

Notes:
- Our free kicks are taken by Abu Sesay. Penalties are taken by Isa Kujabi Jr.

Group A Schedule

Matchday 1: Busoga Islands(13) v. Demot(10)
Matchday 2: Gucci Republic(26) v. Busoga Islands(13)
Matchday 3: Busoga Islands(13) v. Squornshelous(1)

Association Football/Soccer Culture in the Busoga Islands

Map of the Busoga Islands

To get into sporting culture of the country, you first must get into the country's history.

The Busoga Islands, historically, were largely uninhabited. Then, of course, Shia refugees escaping both ethnic and religious persecution in that country escaped from there, and went to the Islands- which were named after their leader, Ayatollah Busoga. A few hundred years of independence, before eventually being subject to a violent takeover by Banija. They were an integral part of Banija- so when Banija was colonized by Quebec, they were as well. And when Banija became independent in 1906, Busoga was considered an integral part of Banija, and went with it. Over 100 years as part of the independent Kingdom of Banija, despite their ethnic and religious composition being vastly different from the Banijan mainland. But a mismanaged drought durign World Cup 80 Qualifying started a famine, which launched the Busogan War for Independence, known abroad as the Banijan-Equestrian War. With asistance from Equestria and Baker Park, military might from their allies achieved their independence from Banija.

Ebrahim Razav was the country's first President, and President Delbin Kasekende, the current President, is the current President- the second President. IN charge for over 20 years, democratically, of course- 4 time election winner. Former NT goalkeeper for both Banija and Busoga, the athlete turned politico is a popular figure in the country. But this history gives them an inferiority complex, sports wise. Banija, their former masters, and neighbor, excelling across sport, while the Busogans can't seem to get anything done. It created a sporting inferiority complex- one that ends up being self-fulfilling.

That leads us to soccer culture, specifically. Association football culture in the Busoga Islands is interesting. It is the second most popular sport in the country, behind cricket- the country's true national sport. The country has never really been known for its sporting prowress- internationally, Busogan teams, no matter the sport, have not done much more than simply fill out numbers in a tournament. Barely a footnote in somebody else's story. Maybe springing an upset or two- who can forget the Busoga Islands upset win, at AOCAF 64, over Valanora? But no trophies, no appearances in Finals, nothing relevant or sustainable built- until, of course, the NSCF. Now, I know what you're thinking- what the hell does college gridiron have to do with the national soccer team?

But it all connects. NSCF 31, the Islamic University of Busoga shows up foer the first time in 10 seasons- there to fill out numbers, get a payday, get rolled by actually relevant teams, and dip. But the opposite happened- the Islamic University of Busoga took the world by storm. They swept the historic Banijan powerhouses of international college football, going 4-0 against the two Banijan schools. They finished as the top team in the regular season, and were, quite literally, one play away from reaching the NSCF Championship game. A hell of a run- coming from literally nowhere, and getting back. Coming back in NSCF 32, and having similar success- showing they are built for this. They are ranked ahead of the two Banijan schools.

Most importantly, though, it served as the hammer to the inferiority complex. The most immediate consequence is the increased popularity of gridiron in the country- now easily the country's third sport. But beyond that, the question became- why can't Busoga compete abroad in other sports? Why not the world's biggest sport- soccer? They are sober about how things are- this small country, without a top-flight team, is not a WC team. But with an expanded WC, and Busogans finally proving themselves on the world stage in sport, they want to get a national team to do so. With the President of the country also the President of BISA, he then announced a return to World Cup Qualifying- and is investing both the time, and the money, to get it done. Expectations were measured, everyone thought that it would take a few cycles to have a legit chance to qualify for the World Cup. But the goals are ambitious- the eldest Kasekende strongly believes that Busogan participation in the Centennial edition of the World Cup is a 'legitimate goal for this country'.

But then, the Busogans stunned not only themselves, but the world at-large- first time back, straight to the Finals.

So the question is, now what? It was a glorious, miraculous run- not only did they get there, but they pulled off the biggest upset of the tournament, defeating the co-host, and top 10 team, Yuezhou, 1-0 in the opening game, which launched them to the knockout stages- which even three-time champions Banija didn't reach. Drunk off of success, they are now back to sober times- the expectations have to be measured again. They are still an underdog, and bombed out not only out of both ARC IV and ARC V, but out of World Cup 99 Qualifying as well- a missed opportunity, with a World Cup in their neighborhood. But they turned the ship around, and then some, at World Cup 100- they destroyed in qualifying, easily finishing top of their group. Not only that- they did the same at the World Cup Finals, with a landmark, 3-1 upset victory in the group stages over former world champions Pasarga, that was the highlight of group play- 7 group stage points, first place in the group, and flying to the knockout stages. They won a game in the Round of 32, before falling on penalties to the eventual World Cup 100 runners-up, Tanirinthia.

With their run to the World Cup 101 Final, however, it has changed the game- association football is now, by far, the most popular sport on these islands- and the country is united behind the team.

The Domestic Football Situation

The domestic football situation in the Busoga Islands is complicated, to say the least. There are 14 professional Busogan teams in the Banijan soccer pyramid, and they are all at the lower levels- two of them are in Banija's second tier, and 10 of them are in the Busogan National League- aka, the third tier. Lakiska SC are in the S-FPL, which is the joint first tier of Banija, Busoga, and Farfadillis- and it's the first time in quite a few cycles that a Busogan team has made it into the top flight. The Busoga Islander Soccer Association has been pushing for further development, but of course, the lack of quality has ensured they remain denied a permanent place in the Shango-Fogoa Premier League.

With the lack of first tier teams, the Islanders struggle to get first tier talent up to the Shango-Fogoa Premier League, which is a ceiling on their development. However, qualifying for 2 of the last 3 World Cups has reinvigorated development of the sport on the island- invest in the clubs, invest in the players, improve quality, and have a 'rising tide lifts all boats' type of moment. It is bearing fruit- Lakiska followed up promotion by winning the LBCT, suggesting that they indeed are here to stay. Other Busogan teams are strengthening themselves in the BSL, and there is expectation that, for the first time in S-FPL history, that a second Busogan squad might be able to earn promotion.

by **Banija** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 3:00 pm

Banija National Team- The Kadongo Kamu

Three-Time World Cup Champions
Defending Champions of the ARC

Information
Country code: BNJ
Denonym: Banijan(s)
Association: Royal Banijan Soccer Association(RBSA)
Nickname: The Kadongo Kamu
Manager: Mikhail Trischuk(South Newlandia). 56 years old. Fourth cycle.
Senior Assistant Manager: Todd Malembe. 44 years old, Banijan native. Former Assistant manager with Capitol City FC.
Captain: Layvin Son-Saka
Alternate Captain: Ensa Janneh

Green Home Kit
White Away Kit
Orange Alternate Kit

The RBSA uses kit providers from Dantopia, a company called Nerio! All of Nerio's football kits are created exclusively with 100% polyester sourced from ocean plastics, as part of Nerio's 'cliMATE' campaign

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

World Cup Appearances: 20- World Cups 80-88, 90-95, 97-101. World Cups 81, 83, and 99 we did not participate in Qualifying as co-hosts.
Times Ranked #1 in the KPB- First Stretch(4 rank updates): Pre-World Cup 86 Qualifying, Pre-World Cup 86 Finals, Pre-World Cup 87 Qualifying, Pre-World Cup 87 Finals
Second Stretch(3 rank updates): Pre-World Cup 94 Finals, Pre-World Cup 95 Qualifying, Pre-World Cup 95 Finals

Trophy Cabinet:
Senior-Level
Champions of World Cup 94
Champions of World Cup 93
Champions of World Cup 86
Champions of ARC 6
Champions of AOCAF LXX (The Final AOCAF)
Champions of AOCAF LXVII
Champions of AOCAF LXIV
Champions of Eagle's Cup VIII
Winner of the Inaugural Afro-Caribbean Heritage Festival
2nd Place at World Cup 92
2nd Place at AOCAF LXVIII
2nd Place at AOCAF LVIII
2nd Place at ARC 5
2nd Place at Eagle's Cup IX(Winners of the tournament's Cup of Champions)
3rd place at World Cup 90
3rd place at World Cup 85
3rd Place at World Cup 83
3rd place at ARC 4
3rd Place at AOCAF LXIX
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 Magazine U18 World Cup
Champions of the 47th Di Bradini Cup (U21 World Cup)
2nd place at the U18 ARC (coinciding with ARC V)
3rd place at 42nd Di Bradini Cup
3rd place at the 17th RTC U18 World Cup
3rd place at the U21 ARC (coinciding with ARC V)

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)

ARC VI Roster

Starters: 4-2-1-3.
Players who are based in a foreign league are bolded.
Players who are making their NT debuts during ARC VI 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 #1 Biran Jarju. Age 34. Plays for FC Capri in the Elven Premiership in Valanora.
LB #2 Kabiru Suso. Age 32. Plays for Mar Sara FC in the Elven Premiership in Valanora.
LCB #5 Kanyago Rouse-Jurun. Age 21. Plays for Montreal Koreana in the Q-League.
RCB #3 Ensa Janneh. Age 34. Plays for Hondo FC in the Elven Premiership in Valanora.
RB #15 Daraja Kanka. Age 32. Plays for La Querida in the S-FPL.
CM #8 Sherif Kinteh. Age 31. Plays for SC Rinaldi in the Elven Premiership in Valanora.
CM #14 Musoke Owole. Age 23. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
CAM #10 Yob Banda. Age 32. Plays for Busukuma AC in the S-FPL.
LW #7 Lavyin Son-Saka. Age 31. Plays for St. John's Arsenal in the Q-League. Captain.
ST #9 Cyrile Resnais-Mahama Age 25. Plays for Tihon in the Red League.
RW #11 Mugisa Buweeka. Age 22. Plays for the Hoima Warriors in the S-FPL.
Bench:
GK #35 Kasozi Ssempewo. Age 30. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
GK #39 Bai Mendy. Age 28. Plays for Southwark Impact in the Q-League.
LB #20 Kiggwe Botondo. Age 25. Plays for Kitara AA in the S-FPL.
CB #4 Karanlang Jaeye. Age 22. Plays for Jinja City FC in the S-FPL. Did not participate in Qualifying, called up for the Finals.
CB #30 Twesigye Bukuuku. Age 24. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
RB #31 Kristina Lobondo. Age 26. Plays for Herzegovina City FC in the S-FPL.
CM #6 Yob Yeyeh Aan. Age 34. Banijan/Farf dual-national. Plays for FK Arsika in Mytanija.
CM #25 Satong Bonda. Age 23. Plays for the Hoima Warriors in the S-FPL.
CAM #15 Zaharija Zdjelar-Siwangeh. Age 29. Plays for Jinja City FC in the S-FPL. Formerly capped by the Farf NT, eligible for a U21 one-time switch.
RW/LW #21 Muhangi Wentibwa. Age 27. Plays for 1912 Stelburg in the Regionalliga Stelburg, and the Meisterschaft, in Siovanija & Teusland.
RW/LW #22 Banta Kairaba. Age 26. Plays for Rolalas FC in the Elven Premiership in Valanora.
ST #12 Lalo Ceesay.. Age 28. Plays for Orchideeën in Taxhavn.

Notes:
- Our free kicks and penalty kicks are taken by Layvin Son-Saka. Our corner kicks are taken by the winger on whatever side the corner kick is on.

Select Player Bios

1. Layvin Son-Saka

The most hyped prospect, in this sport anyways, is Gitonga Kahara for Banija. Those who are old enough to remember the hype coming out of DBC 42- well, you can say that he lived up to it, having a storybook ending for his career- his last game for Banija, captaining our country to our first ever World Cup title. Son-Saka has every bit the hype- and some say even more talent. "Gitonga Kahara will always hold a special place in the hearts of Banijans- but the next great winger is here, and Son-Saka has the potential to not be equalled by anybody."

Think of the exploits he's had for St. John's Arsenal as a teenager. Scoring the title-winning goal to lead St. John's Arsenal to their first Q-League title in 28 years, he's the main man in one of the biggest leagues in club football. And now, starring for his country too. He probably should have a WC title and been on the WC94 team- but Pam Scott opted to bring on her veteran, Sarafina Ikpeazu, for one last ride. Can't argue with those results, of course. But it's his team now. He got onto the team, got the #7 jersey and the starting job right away, and even has a regional title to show for it, being a key starter on Banija's AOCAF 70 winning team- the final AOCAF.

Of course, while he has been a bright spot, the team has gone quite far downhill since then. Widely recognized as the team's best player, he's been given the armband as the captain for the Kadongo Kamu not only this time around, but for the long-term, at just 24 years old. He's gladly taken on that responsibility, and despite there being senior players ahead of him, he will wear the armband for a decade+. He strong believes that he will compete for the biggest possible trophies for Banija, and that their brightest days are ahead- as opposed to behind. He's now been through the ups and downs- the joys of a shockingly surprising run to the quarterfinals of World Cup 97, and the lows of a brutal, and equally shocking, group stage elimination at ARC 3- followed by an embarrassing group stage elimination at World Cup 98, where he didn't even score a goal.

Has there ever been more pressure on a Banijan athlete than there is on Son-Saka now? Mega-talented, he was critical in starting the turnaround of the NT, leading them to a solid third place finish at ARC IV. And yet- he bombed at World Cup 99. Nobody looked good going forward, but for this man to not score a single goal? Impossible. He was pissed off and motivated, and helped lead the team back to the ARC Final. Despite a tough loss to Farfadillis in that Final, there's belief that was a major growth tournament- and it was true, as they were much stronger at World Cup 100. And then it was true even beyond that- he was the leading man for his team as they stormed to their first ARC trophy at the most recent edition of the tournament, beating both the tournament co-favorites, Valanora and the Squornshelan Remnant States, along the way.

After a dominant group stage followed by a shocking Round of 32 exit, can he help lead the team to regional glory for a second straight cycle?

2. Musoke Owole

The box to box midfielder is getting a lot of attention, as the 23 year old has fought his way into the starting XI for club and country, with his debut at ARC V. When you're in the center of the park of the country's biggest club, you know pressure- and Owole's eager to take it all in for his country as well. "You dream of these moments, being part of a starting XI wearing these colors, and now, I'm here." He told reporters. "My opportunity is now, and we're going to build towards World Cup 100."

The regionals were an interesting tournament- both he individually, and the team at-large, performed quite well, as Banija won their first 6 games of the tournament, only to lose the all-important seventh match- the Final. He was a player who, at the tournament, solidifed his place in the starting XI. A dynamic prospect, there isn't much he can't do- but he's got a penchant for boneheaded mistakes, as his mental game is considered weak by many scouts. Despite that, he really stepped up in big games- scoring his first ever goal for the NT in the semifinal victory against Siovanija & Teusland, and then scoring again in the Final against Farfadillis.

Young, quick, powerful, and raw, a sometimes chaotic Owole is guaranteed to be a gamebreaker- even if it can be for either team sometimes. The talent is there- but it's his improving consistency, especially at the last World Cup, that is causing him to skyrocket up the list of important players for the Kingdom.

3. Cyrile Resnais-Mahama

Resnais-Mahama is the tip of the spear for the new generation of Banijan players. The RBSA has long had a heavy reliance on the Elven Premiership and Q-League to find NTers- the former with an extensive youth scouting system in the country, and the latter having a huge amount of Banijan/Quebecois dual-nationals in their ranks. AWO, and Layvin Son-Saka- is Resnais-Mahama the next in a long line of Banijan/Quebecois dual-national attackers who ball out for team Banija?

He's been an absolute stud in the Q-League for a while- 30 goals in 3 straight seasons. And now, has gotten his payday, securing an 8 figure move to Tihon just days before the beginning of World Cup 99. While his debut major tournament was a disappointment, just 1 goal at the head of a fangless attack, he followed that up with an excellent club season. He was in the #9 role for TIhon as they not only made a run to the IFCF Challenger's Cup Final, but also finished in the top 4 in the Red League- meaning that, next season, they'll be in the Champions League.

For his country, despite his poor World Cup 99, he balled out at the ARC, scoring 6 times at ARC V, including twice in the Final. He redeemed himself for his poor World Cup 99 by spearheading a strong Banijan attack at World Cup 100, and scoring a boatload of goals at ARC VI. He's leading the frontline once again- and will work towards getting the golden boot as he hopes to lead the team to a second straight regional title, this time on home soil.

4. Kanyago Rouse-Jurrin (Mostly written by Quebec!)

Kanyago Rouse-Juruni's a street-smart behemoth, both literally and on background. Son of five from Maurice Nkrumah Juruni, a Banijan statistics student from Bolgatanga, Aksum, and Kimberley Rouse, a Songakian boxing gym owner, he grew up tough with his three brothers and a sister in east end of Songak. While her mother was a City fan, and her father CSKA, Kanyago quickly joined Mtl. Koreana academy at age 6 to avoid trouble on the streets due to his god-given height.

So far that has worked as the 6'9, 250 lb behemoth has transitioned into an all-arounded CB. Called up to senior club at age 15, Kanyago's Q-League performance, widely considered by many as 'defensively Yamal', would see him net TOTY award at age 17, and subsequently a spot with the Kadongo Kamu.

The massive, towering CB has play that has basically demanded his inclusion not only on the NT- but directly into the starting XI. He was the youngest player to ever start a World Cup match for Banija, and he might be the best defensive prospect the country has ever seen. There's a lot of pressure when you make your NT debut at the World Cup, but he's got a ridiculous amount of self-confidence to ensure that no moment will be too big for him. He locked down his spot as a starter at WC99, and despite earning a red card in the opening match of ARC V, he had himself a good tournament there as well. He's basically an anchor on the Banijan back line these days.

Outside of play, he is a flashy individual with his lineup of red, pink and lilac suits, sneakers and ties. But he, being a father of two, is also dependable individual. Kanyago has started to really his early signs of money and maturity by attending business school classes at his mother's alma mater at Songak Metropolitan.

Group C Schedule
Matchday 1: Banija(2) v. Myrtle Beach(24)
Matchday 2: Loyo(24) v. Banija(2)
Matchday 3: Banija(2) v. Quebec and Shingoryeo (12)

by **Carpathia and Ruthenia** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 3:18 pm

Ship has been set back on course, next step regionals

After a thrilling round of sixteen exit against Eriadni, the team may have lost the game but they certainly won back the hearts of the fans. Brelk-Xeral Erv who insiders were saying was one foot out of the door has now quashed any talk of an exit and has been given the carte blanche to carry on the team building project promising a return to the World Cup in four years. That said we need to be doing more work investing in home-grown talent if we look at the big teams in 1. Lega you'll see a majority of foreign players in the squads, and I'm all for this as it makes for a thrilling league but we need to make sure we are using the money from increased viewership, merchandise to help supplement fostering our home grown talent and here’s perhaps the controversial opinion from me that could also mean getting our players into higher ranked foreign leagues.

Hear me out as I’m all for home-grown talent, but the investment from the FCCR into grassroots and infrastructure is the right move long term, but if we are going to return to the World Cup in four years and not make fools of ourselves on the world stage I think some of our players need to play regularly outside of Carpathia and Ruthenia, especially when some are fighting to get playing time in their domestic club currently.

It’s handy then with us needing to play more internationally to gain experience that we have the regionals ahead of us. The seventh of the now not so newly formed Arrosia football confederation competition, formed out of the scandal of the millenia that caused the exit of most it not all footballing nations from the Atlantian Oceania federation, so far it hasn’t driven up to the glamour of the old AOCAF tournaments it certainly attracts the neutrals with matches between the giants of Farfadillis, Squornshelous and Valanora. Brelk-Xeral Erv’s target for the tournament is to reach the round of twelve at a minimum with a stretch goal of the quarter-finals.

By Margita Ongaro
CBC Ruthenia

by **Banija** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 3:37 pm

ARC VI, Matchday 1, Groups D-E

Group D
Qasden 0–2 Commonwealth of Baker Park
Dhemixia 0–2 Carpathia and Ruthenia

Group D                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Carpathia and Ruthenia          1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
  Commonwealth of Baker Park      1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
3 Dhemixia                        1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0
  Qasden                          1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

Group E
Cardenao 2–2 Sultanate of Oontaz
Farfadillis 3–1 Siovanija and Teusland

Group E                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Farfadillis                     1   1  0  0    3   1  +2    3
2 Cardenao                        1   0  1  0    2   2   0    1
  Sultanate of Oontaz             1   0  1  0    2   2   0    1
4 Siovanija and Teusland          1   0  0  1    1   3  −2    0

by **Cardenao** » Wed Jul 15, 2026 5:04 pm

ARC VII, Matchday 1, Groups A-C

Group A
Gucci Republic 0–4 Squornshelous
Busoga Islands 2–2 Demot

Group A                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  Pts 
1 Squornshelous              1   1  0  0    4   0    3
2 Busoga Islands             1   0  1  0    2   2    1
  Demot                      1   0  1  0    2   2    1
4 Gucci Republic             1   0  0  1    0   4    0

Group B
Equestria 0–1 Milchama
Fort McKinley 2–3 Valanora

Group B                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  Pts 
1 Valanora                   1   1  0  0    3   2    3
2 Milchama                   1   1  0  0    1   0    3
3 Fort McKinley              1   0  0  1    2   3    0
4 Equestria                  1   0  0  1    0   1    0

Group C
Loyo 1–0 Quebec and Shingoryeo
Banija 3–2 Myrtle Beach

Group C                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  Pts 
1 Banija                     1   1  0  0    3   2    3
2 Loyo                       1   1  0  0    1   0    3
3 Myrtle Beach               1   0  0  1    2   3    0
4 Quebec and Shingoryeo      1   0  0  1    0   1    0

by **Busoga Islands** » Thu Jul 16, 2026 2:33 pm

The Lakiska Daily

Busogans battle to draw as they return to the Arrosia Regional Championships

HOIMA, ANKOLE- In front of a packed house in Hoima, the Busogans were getting ready for what was surely going to be a great game- the Islanders doing battle against Demot. Demot, a team with plenty of history who only compete in the regionals, are an ambitious and talented team who like to get forward, and stay aggressive. "They are a core part of Arrosia, and an integral part of the sporting history of the now former Atlantian Oceania." Emeline Millet, Busoga's manager, told reporters. "We've got a particularly challenging group- no easy games anywhere. It is up to us to go out and get off to a strong start to this tournament, as we have the true beasts of international football in our group, top-ranked Squornshelous."

It is, indeed, a fascinating time to focus on Busogan football. Fresh off of a shocking appearance in the World Cup Final, the Busoga Islands are trying to prove to the world that World Cup 101 was not a one-off- but more of a 'coming of age' moment for the Busogan national team. That the Busogans could legitimately take center stage, that this was a team that could consistently make deep runs at major tournaments. ARC VII is a great place to try and prove that. And yet, the regional tournaments have been anything but kind to the Busoga Islands. They never went to the semifinals of the AOCAFs. ARC V was the first time they got out of the groups in the history of the ARC- only to lose to their S-FPL partners, Banija in group play, and Farfadillis in the quarterfinals, to go out just as quickly.

ARC VI, the Busogans were not even in the tournament- mostly resting the squad, to try and entrench themselves in World Cup Qualifying. They have done so- and now, as a nation who seems to be a World Cup lock, they are back in the regional tournament, trying to prove themselves- and maybe even win a trophy. "World Cup 101 changed everything for our nation, if we are to be frank." Said Afassiv Mansur, one of the starting center backs for the Busoga Islands. "We've not only played in these big games, but won them- back, to back, to back, to back. There is no stage that we haven't seen. The moment is not too big enough. The pressure of coming into a tournament with legitimate expectations, however? Certainly a challenge."

And now, the Islanders battled it out to an equally ambitious Demot team, by a score of 2-2. So much late game magic in World Cup 101, winning 4 knockout games in a row by a margin of a singular goal, and they brought some of that here to the regional tournament. Demot off to a flying start- Hector Deleo scored in the 22nd minute, and then it was Vargas who would double their lead in the 36th minute. A tournament that was so critical for the Busogans, starting so poorly- almost disastrous. But Millet kept calm, and with three halftime substitutions, the Busogans were able to climb back into the contest.

Unlem Kurt, somehow still coming in off the bench, scored in the 55th minute to really bring the pressure onto Demot. As they say, a 2-0 lead is the most dangerous lead in football. The youngster scored again, this time in the 71st minute, to level the game at 2. The Busogans had a chance to complete the comeback for the ages, and get a win, when Kurt was brought down in the box for a penalty, in the 82nd minute. But Uzun stepped up to take his penalty, and saw it sky over the crossbar- into the stands. A tough penalty miss, in a big spot- a big point for the Busogans, but in a game where they really feel as if they should have earned all 3.

Next up for the Islanders are the Gucci Republic. A must win for the Busogans, since the three-time world champions, and two-time regional champions, Squornshelous, are their opponent in the final day of group play. If they can get 3 points against the Gucci Republic, that will go a long way towards ensuring knockout football- but dropping points there could ensure yet another disappointing finish, in a tournament that has been anything but kind to the Busogans.

by **Fort McKinley** » Fri Jul 17, 2026 8:25 am

People's Republic of Fort McKinley

Fort McKinley's famous National Football Team return to the CAR Cup of captialist pig-dog nations as the Heroes of the Revolution are ready to once again do battle for the glory of our nation. This will mark the third appearance in the tournament that has seen the Heroes prevented from advancement due to political pressure on both previous occasions.

All Time Record #: 45 wins, 47 defeats, 24 draws; 181 goals scored, 187 goals conceded
# The Fort McKinley Football Association disputes the validity of numerous results from WCC sanctioned events.

Style: +0.75
Ft McKinley is the classic smash & grab counterattack side.
Formation: 4-4-2/4-3-3
They will not sit back if they go down a goal but try and push with an extra player in the final third.

The non-propaganda stuff you didn't you know needed:

Manager--David Clyde Miller
Coaches--Stevie Ben Morris, Alvin Pete Allen

GK
Bobby Neal Jones	27	Curundu Metropolitan
Leroy Tom Smith	        26	Redonia Metropolitan	

DEF
Ted Mickey Smith	28	Wilmore Metropolitan  
Hank Erwin Young	25	Gold Star Redonia
Michael Ross Clark	27	Comrade Dr Allen
Steven Ray Morris	26	Parkfield Workers Collective
Peter Tim Allen	        25	Workers Club Redonia
Tony Bob Smith	        27	Aerotech Wolf Creek
Cody Don Beard	        29	Gold Star Wilmore

MID
Reggie Wayne Miller	27	Capital Metropolitan
Willie Sam Beard	26	Curundu Metropolitan
Timmy Dan Young	        26	Workers Club Redonia
Robert Lee Gray	        28	Gold Star Redonia
Gary Joe Jones	        28	Melgrove Metropolitan
Larry Gene Davis	26	Workers Club Merryfield
Billy Gene Davis	28	Workers Club Merryfield
Donald Jay Clark	29	Motor Curundu

FWD
Paul Mark Allen	        26	Wolf Creek Metropolitan
Jerry Wayne Morris	28	Workers Club Shiloh Springs
Billy Floyd Clark	28	Workers Club Curundu
Robbie Earl Davis	27	Comrade Dr Allen
Tommie Frank Gray	29	Mining Merryfield
Jimmy Fred Young	26	Gold Star Redonia

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

by **Milchama** » Fri Jul 17, 2026 10:31 am

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

Sports Section

ARC Brings Back More of the Same

Milchama has already had more success in the ARC than the Warriors had in all of their appearances in the old AOCAF. The Warriors never had a semi final appearance in AOCAF while they've already won the ARC once and got to the semis at least one other time. Of course, now comes the time of stagnation. Margaret has turned on the Milchamian football team and the Warriors have taken a few steps back. However, a new lineup in the Cup of Harmony did give some run to Milchama who took a few steps forward in getting a couple of upsets to reach the quarterfinals. The hope is that the team can use that momentum to move further forward in the ARC.

Here is the lineup, which is exactly the same as in the CoH.

Manager: Elton Freehold - Not actually free or a freeholder for that matter. Changed his name because he thought it sounded cool, now it sounds suspiciously capitalist, either way he's here because he was the first one to say yes.

Freehold was contractually obligated to keep up Milchama's illogical 3-3-4 system.

GK: Elad Lindsey - Yes, two first names. No that does not effect how well he plays keeper. Solid 8/10.
D: Eden Donest - Good wing back, one of the better players on this team. Expect good things from him.
D: Ran Ben Aron - Hard nosed centerback. I feel like every centerback in Milchama is "hard nosed," this really isn't a unique descriptor. Whatever, it fits.
D: Dom Donaldson - Surprisingly fast for a wingback but surprisingly bad at tackling for a defender. Definitely a potential weak link.
M: Rickard Jones - Good player, solid midfielder.
M: Laila Miller - The rare hard nosed center mid. She never flinches from a tackle or a fight. The leader of the team and the captain.
M: Agam Thun - She's short but feisty, can run all over the place.
F: Darbai Tegusken - Runs all over the places and occasionally even scores the goals.
F: Riley Clashko - Goalscorer extraordinaire, looked really good in the New Spartan, Alexandrian, and Karakorum leagues so gets the call up.
F: Omer Hallam - Tall and great in the air. Can lead a decent counterattack despite the height.
F: Juan Wandy - Great crosser of the ball, decent passer too. The offensive wide forward.

Subs:
GK: Fletcher Hargue - Look our backup GK needed to be a Fletcher ok.
GK: Sammy Guicantell - Gui can definitely tell.
D: Evan Evans - His parents disliked him as a child.
D: Shimshon Habakuk - Large man tackle!
D: Dor Gendt - He's part of the Dor Generation!
M: Miguel Hasmula - Tricky mid
M: Liat Kramer - Generative mid
M: Yankiel Thomas - Running mid
F: Avraham Ben Aroya - He knows how to lead a strike
F: Tenli Kesef - Surprisingly not rich
F: Del Dal - Yes that's his real name. He also scores goals
F: Megan Hamanup - Solid sub forward

Style Modifier: +3
Permissions:
Do whatever, I don't care, reminder that I will ignore cannon something if I don't like it but that has basically never happened.

by **Carpathia and Ruthenia** » Fri Jul 17, 2026 11:59 am

=======================================================
         DHEMIXIA   0 - 2   CARPATHIA AND RUTHENIA     
=======================================================
GOALS
                          |  Addis.............23'
                          |  Fedoryshyn........67'

CARDS
  Sanford (Y).......38'   |  Lecce (Y).........41'
  Bush (Y)..........76'   |  
  Clarke (Y)........90'   |  
=======================================================
                        LINEUPS                        
=======================================================
STARTING XI
  GK  Williamson            |  GK  Antonini 
  CB  McMahon               |  RB  Verona 
  CB  Grabõn                |  CB  Naldi 
  CB  Sanford      (v 90')  |  CB  Alinari 
  DM  Bush                  |  LB  Kövér 
  RM  Hutchinson   (v 82')  |  RM  Lecce 
  CM  Clarke                |  CM  Brunetti 
  CM  Hawkins               |  LM  Vinci 
  LM  Baker        (v 70')  |  FW  Bassi (c)
  ST  Obisana               |  FW  Addis        (v 67')
  ST  Calhoun               |  ST  Fedoryshyn         

SUBSTITUTES
  GK  Atkins                |  GK  Voltolini 
  CB  Dewitt                |  RB  Cino 
  CB  Wilson                |  LB  Selmone      
  DM  Sims                  |  CB  Ruzsa        (^ 67')
  RM  Warren       (^ 82')  |  MF  Alemagna 
  CM  Workman      (^ 90')  |  MF  Piccirillo 
  LM  Alford                |  ST  Mondo 
  ST  Burns        (^ 70')  |  ST  Sabbatini 
=======================================================
                      MATCH STATS                      
=======================================================
                      POSSESSION
  42% ███████████████████████████████████████████ 58%

                          xG                          
 0.53 ███████████████████████████████████████████ 1.84

                        SHOTS
    5 ███████████████████████████████████████████ 15

                    SHOTS ON TARGET                   
    2 ███████████████████████████████████████████ 6
=======================================================

Steady course plotted in calm waters

The power of expectations can be a double-edged sword, it can help you when you are the underdog with no expectations to play freely to win and on the opposite side when you are the team with expectations to win, the thought can drive teams to play not to lose. Mentality therefore is as big a component as the talent of the team, and Carpathia and Ruthenia demonstrated perhaps the easier side of that with a comfortable two-nil victory over newly returned Dhemixia. Coming out strongly from the first whistle, and not letting their foot off the pedal after their first goal, continuing to chase for the second and being rewarded for this in the sixty-seventh minute. Dhemixia to their credit did not go down to that mat at that point with manager Ouattara changing tactics to put us under a great deal of pressure to try to make a comeback, however the defensive line held firm and apart from a fizzing Calhoun shot we were not troubled.

The final whistle blew and the mission was accomplished, three points out of the gate giving us momentum going into our toughest match of the group against Baker Park. Barker Park are coming off a disappointing World Cup having not scored a single point in the group stage, disappointment magnified for the fans surely by the fact they lost every single game by just one goal. Similar to us they’ve come out of the gate strong with a two-nil victory over Qasden trying to erase recent memories, but Snestar have shown that they are vulnerable to us lower ranked teams. If we come out of the gate strong and get an early goal we could knock Baker Park of balance and this time we are on the other side of that sword, there’s no expectation on us and everything on Baker Park to prove that this last World Cup was an anomaly.

By Margita Ongaro
CBC Ruthenia

by **Valanora** » Fri Jul 17, 2026 11:59 am

It was not the sort of all around performance that the Marauders had been hoping to put on display in their first match here in Banija, yet at the end of the ninety minutes it was still a victory for the side from Eternal Empire and three points on the board. A nervy three to two victory over the third seed in the group to open up the tournament is not the sort of performance that is going to make Ellzidan's job feel any more secure than it was before the tournament began, as the expectations had truly been for a dominant display from a Vanorian team upset with the way their World Cup had ended. With all due respect to Fort McKinley, they are not viewed in the same sort of atmosphere that teams like the Marauders are in, as well as the other top top teams like Squornshelous and Banija. Those are the peers in which the Marauders expect to find themselves with in the regional championship and not with the middle of the road teams that Fort McKinley finds themselves with no clear aspirations of climbing from that level that they are currently in.

It comes back to a lingering issue that has been a problem with the national team since their original inception during The YoungWorld Cup, the first tournament the Marauders ever took part in, nearly two centuries ago and has yet to truly be solved whilst still being true to the sporting culture and heritage of the nation and team.That of course is the that despite having individually talented players in the defense and in net, the team can not consistently play at a high level on the defensive side of the ball and it has been their biggest problem since basically ever. It is why the team failed to defeat Banija in the World Cup two decades ago, it is why the team could not overcome Squornshelous in the World Cup and then ARC final a decade ago. The defense can not match in and match out be at a high level regardless of the talent of the players who form the backline or who is the manager of the team with the tactics that they are employing. Even with a Ko-orenite manager in the form of Millet, the defense for the Marauders was always on a roller coaster and never a steady good but not great unit. When that is the true, that is when the Marauders have been able to lift trophies.

Moving ahead in the competition, the very next game is going to hit at the defense's resiliency and the ability to bounce back from a disappointing performance as the team will renew acquaintances with Milchama. The Warriors pushed the Marauders to extra time during the last World Cup and have been a bit of a thorn in the side of the team for as long as the regional championship has been going, a clear showing between being lucky and unlucky between the two. They also play a very attacking sort of game and with three attackers, the backline is going to be heavily pushed up against it with that sort of attack and press. It is going to make the midfield have to sag back, both in the middle and on the wings, to try and support the defense so that they are not being completely overrun by the attack. It is the sort of tactic that looks to take the Marauders out of their normal way of playing the game and without dominating the possession it leaves Hawk and Haaland isolated at the top of the formation without much to hope for in quality supply. Perhaps the exact reasons why the Warriors have had as much recent success against the team in the last decade as they have.

The game also will have the added bonus of granting qualification and the group title to whoever comes away as the victor at the end of the match, with both teams having won in the opening matchday. Should the teams come out with a draw, both will be looking for a blowout win on the final matchday to then secure the group title as they would be level on points, goal difference, and of course the head to head result heading into that final match. Simen Prytz and Eric Nordström need to have bounce back games after being beat twice on broken plays to allow Fort McKinley to get their goals, the type of mental errors that against better competition could have seen the Marauders drop points. They have been stellar throughout their playing careers at the club level but they need to be stern here with the national team and show that they are worth leading the defense into the next World Cup and not have the manager have to look elsewhere. Riley Clashko can not be afforded the space to make the magic happen nor can the fullbacks allow crosses to come in with regularity as they plays into Omer Hallam's game. The task is tough, the opponent one that has given the Marauders trouble, but this team has to rise to the occasion if they are to get back to winning titles and no better place to start than this fixture.

ARC VII Everything Thread + Arrosia Capital of Culture

ARC VII Everything Thread + Arrosia Capital of Culture

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