World Cup 70 - RP Thread

by **Zenic** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 11:51 am

All was silent in the office as Zimmel III smoked his cigar.

It had been a long day at work: getting everything set for the next season of UICA football for the eligible Zenician clubs, discussions with various experts on how to set up an ice hockey league and getting the international teams ready for their respective competitions. It was no easier being the head of a ministry than being an intern, Zimmel thought to himself. Half of the time, he thought about bringing a cot into his office so he could just sleep there and conserve time and gas. Heck, he might as well just build a wing full of apartments so he can move himself and his wife in to. Or not, considering the amount of paperwork that would take.

Anyways, he stopped entertaining that chain of thought to focus on another: the World Cup 70 Qualifiers and the senior national team. There was a lot to think of: the third straight year of football under Sanders, the new national team stadium, the Philosophia Coliseum, their incredible ranking of 82 after just two international cycles and their vast improvement (and incredible run) in the Copa Rushmori. With everything going so well, the only remaining realistic thing to accomplish at the moment was to actually qualify for the World Cup. And they had been placed in a really good position to do so.

Looking over the group on his desktop, Zimmel considered the odds of qualifying. The group would include four difficult rematches for the senior side: a home-and-away with the team they lost to in the CRXIX semifinals, Saintland and a home-and-away with West Angola who ended up eliminating them from qualifying for World Cup 68. They also were grouped with Rüntenbach and Schottia who are not pushovers at all. Finally, rounding out the group are the BoF 57 runner up Polaaskan, Unolia, Khalifa Arabia and, Zenic’s opponents on the first match-day, Scow Creek. It was an interesting group where with a bit of luck and lots of hard work could very well lead to Zenic’s first ever qualification to a World Cup.

Possibly is what Zimmel thought as he proceeded with his cigar, ready to go home once it was finished.

by **Ko-oren** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 12:42 pm

"We need you on the field in five minutes." Milal Kutnos, referee from the Northern Sunrise Islands, shouted through the hallway beneath the National Stadium in Ko-oren City. The Ko-orenite FA asked for a match against another respected footballing nation, Super-Llamaland, in order to prepare for the World Cup. To maintain neutrality, the referee would come from Esportiva. Now Milal wasn't a person you wanted to bribe anyway. As they say in the Northern Sunrise Islands: don't take off his mask. Anyhow, he is an experienced referee and that's all that was needed to get the match underway. Apart from two teams, a field and a ball. The ball was easy: there's loads of them across Ko-oren, footballs being one of the most common balls in the archipelago. The field was a little bit trickier, but the FA chose Ko-oren City as always over one of the other stadiums in the nation. That said, the National Stadium is closest to the national FA's training grounds that are used by the national team anyway. And then a field, surrounded by 34 thousand seats, all filled by green-and-blue wearing fans. Or at least most of them filled with people wearing that colour, with a couple thousand wearing something else: the... green and blue of Super-Llamaland. And then the teams, eleven players per team as usual. And for Ko-oren on the sidelines, another eleven players. And some staff. Medical, mostly. Well, medical staff exclusively.

Ko-oren does not have a coach. This wasn't planned actually, it just happened. As was the case for years and years, we had Pet Rilasthaunden on the bench to say what the players had to do. But he wasn't the only coach: there is a committee of coaches, under supervision of Mr. Rilasthaunden himself, and the committee has to re-elect the head coach after every World Cup. Which they did, until Rilasthaunden got into problems after a few bad results. But he survived those and after last time's excellent results - top 16 of the world - everyone expected his term to be extended again. But the vote for head coach ended in a tie, something that had not happened before and nobody was actually sure what would happen now, but things got out of hand (not violently, but bureaucratically) and instead of two head coaches, the Greenblues were left with zero.

There already was a weird tension in the dressing room. This could have been one of three things: 1) no head coach. Obvious, they're the one making the decisions when the game is about to start. And as the head coach decides who the captain is - as per Ko-orenite FA regulations - the Dragonflies are left without a captain too. So this is an obvious one. It could also have been: 2) a screen in the middle of the dressing room dividing genders. Eight female players and 14 male players, sharing but not sharing a dressing room. There is some mumbling on one side that's inaudible on the other side, but hey, without a coach or captain, there's very little you can do to break the tension and call everyone together. And then 3): there was no gameplan. It was a pure stroke of luck that there were 22 kits there, all more or less the right size for whoever wore that number. And even differently coloured kits numbered 1, 12 and 22 for the goalkeepers. And then Milal Kutnos piped up, saying that the team had five minutes until everyone had to be out for the anthems, coin toss and kick off.

As soon as Milal left, and that was very audible as it was the only noise made near the dressing room, one voice said "Uh... so who will play? If nobody wants, I'm ok with playing..." followed by multiple "No shit, sherlock"s from both sides of the screen. "Everyone ready? We can take out the screen, that will make it a bit easier to talk". Silence. And after a couple of seconds, two players, those wearing numbers 5 and 8 stood up to take the screen away. With no objections, the screen was now in the hallway and there was the full dressing room, with 22 players who had no idea what to do. "I was thinking..." Katherine Davenport said, "how about we do things more or less as we did last World Cup? Five defenders, four midfielders and one striker. I mean, we know how to play defence, we're good at it, so let's just don't fix what isn't broken." Some mumbled "Ok", "Sounds like a plan" and those kinds of empty statements.

"I thought Storm in goal. Sorry Cláudia, sorry Ralph, but let's just not change things haphazardly. Storm is doing well in Vilita, so let's just do that. And then... five defenders, let's see... one on the right, one on the left, let's get Nanami and Timon in there. Then Katanmak, Páll and me?" Nobody really spoke up, but nobody seemed to mind. "Ok, then, uh, Ceindrych in midfield. With Henrique. You guys just get out there together, Ceindrych doing the passing and Henrique doing the running. Violet and Esolywend, you're up next, and then Narantuyaa up in front." "So... that's just exactly as we did all year?" "Basically, yes... why not?"

Somebody knocked on the door. Milal Kutnos's voice said "I need you guys out there, come on out". The 22 stood up and walked out. They walked into the wall of sound of the National Stadium for the first preparation match for another World Cup. Super-Llamaland was already on the pitch. All 22 agreed on one thing: in two hours, the second zero on the scoreboard must still be there, and we'll see about the rest. The orchestra started playing...

by **Estenia** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 1:00 pm

OOC: I've got ideas coming over in my mind, prepare for my best Roleplay I've ever written.

Rannin, Estenia
08:00 local time
Sunny, 25 degrees clesius

It was a warm and dry day on Rannin, although it was still early November morning. The November Vacation has just begun which lasts from November 19th to Nevember 26th, all the people are either gathered on their homes like it's a New Year's Day, or in beaches, which are perfect to go this time of period. The landscape was not montonous as most of the year, it was lightful and everywhere there were Estenian flags, or Gianlang-Checheng flags, no, no, no, the war wasn't over, but that time of period, Estenia founded the country of Gianlang-Checheng on 1879, it was split on 1976 for political reasons before uniting today. That is the only time of period that nature is enstrongered on Rannin and lots of bird and even ild animals visits the large suburbs which are full of 17.9 million peope of the 22 million people city. This time of period also, people remember when the city was the capital and had all the lights of Estenian art and literature and was a tourist center, a bigger than it is right now.

Somewhere in the suburbs, a couple was standing in front of the small forest ouside western Rannin, the only place of the metropolitan area having wildlife, so the couple went to check it out. The forest was green from as far as your eye could see, flowers everywhere, small leaves falling down of trees, newer ones grow up. Eatable and non-eatable mushrooms growing out of everywhere, all the wildlife approaching you without doing anything, unlike the things we see in the documentaries, that forest was an Earth Paradise, because the humanity didn't really touch it over the centuries and the proggressive periods.

Back in the city, people saw mushrooms growing out of nowhere, to small plants, to the very few trees, flowers also, most people didn't see that stuff while not going on vacation somewhere outside the city. Now a new era has begun, an era of modernization and very quick progress to everything, where even the person with the biggest fantasy coldn't imagine, more stuff could happen now, than the other 1,5 century. But that period was small for any progressive things, but a person of intrest around Estenia could make it.

In his laboratory, somewhere in the city centre, he was working with very dangerous chemicals that could make a robot move with simple human orders like "Do that." and "Go over there." although it looked simple, it was so difficult that the person who made it needed 5 months to make it, with all that simple material and some very dangerous chemicals, the person actually worked with acid and cow's gases, which could make a new era for humanity and progressivity.

In the other corner, children were prepared to play matches against other children for that game which looked like a Champions' Cup game to them, although nobody knew they would play for the national team some day. In the other stadium, other children were playing basketball which seemed like a World Class tournament to them, like a huge final. At the same place biys and girls were having the same amount of fun and proggressive things, things that they could imagine, unlike the adults who have lost large part of their fantasy years ago and replaced it with reality, the monotonus reality, which have hurt the hearts of the elderly people.

The elderly, mostly in the taverns playing backgammon and Rasov Diary(A chess like game) while drinking Vodka and Fuduska(A whiskey like beverage) and eating omelletes or even remembering the old good days, when Rannin was a very small town, the capital of a peaceful Estenia, a cultural center of the globe, a global centre, a simple city, the people's true favourite city. Everyone loved the city back then and not the city right now, which is pretty much a large mess that nobody imagined back then that could even happen now.

The factories were shut down and everybody, even the owners were happy not atching smoke getting out of them and polluting hte atmosphere of some of the time, which is a time of both need and relaxation from a very turbulent year, that has trully surpised everybody from what it was done, som many technological achievemnts, so much sadness turned into happines, this era didn't only have bad things happening it had also good things to the people, the advancement of humanity still continues everywhere, but everyone thinks it needs a break, which is a very good idea.

by **Gregoryisgodistan** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 3:09 pm

Lord Almighty Gregory's Speech to the People

"Good evening, ladies, gentlemen, and slaves. Recently, the wicked, heathen nation of Gloriax launched a massive invasion across the border into our sovereign, holy nation. This action cannot be tolerated. We must destroy Gloriax once and for all. In other news, Super-Llamaland has surrendered to us and agreed to pay us massive amounts of money, some of which fell from the sky this morning. But it's OK. We got our money and had a good laugh. Ha ha. But back on topic, our soldiers were recalled from Super-Llamaland and will now be deployed to the Gloriax border. We will deploy approximately 3 million troops to help fortify the border, while another 2 million will prepare to launch an aerial and ground assault on Gloriax if all else fails. We will do to Gloriax what we did to Super-Llamaland, launching a human blitzkrieg, sending in parachuting troopers armed with flamethrowers and other weapons. Gloriax has 48 hours to withdraw all troops before we commence such a plan. In the meantime, the 3 million troops will be deployed to the border to fight Gloriax.

"But that is not enough sanctions. Gloriax must be added to the list reserved for our worst enemies, the list known as the Enemy List. Yes, Gloriax is now on the Enemy List. This means that the killing of any Gloriax citizen is now legal within Gregoryisgodistan and the killer will receive 1 million greggygodbucks. This reward applies to the military as well. Furthermore, the reward still applies to Gloriax citizens killed outside Gregoryisgodistan, and we will attack any country that arrests a Gregoryisgodistani for killing a Gloriax citizen and add them to our Enemy List as well. Gloriax must be stopped from invading. If they cannot be stopped, we must destroy them ourselves. I am the One True Lord, and all of Gloriax must come under my command if they do not withdraw. To Gloriax - here is your ultimatum. Withdraw all troops within 48 hours or we will launch a human blitzkrieg. What did you think would happen if you invaded? We didn't really care about you - we were more concerned with our other neighbor, the dreaded San Jose Guayabal. We were even considering allying with you to invade that wicked nation. But alas, you have made an enemy of us and you shall be our enemy forever. We will launch a human blitzkrieg in 48 hours if you do not withdraw. We will prevail. We are glorious. We are Gregoryisgodistan. Death to Gloriax! And while I'm at it, I'll do a full run of the Enemy List because I haven't done it in a while.

"Deatht to Costa Luna, which is one nation, not two! Death to Middleton Valley! Death to Saintland! Death to Free Republics, The Holy Republican Empire, or whatever you're called! Death to Alianza Albos! Death to Hicana! Death to The Greater Valkolicci Haven! Death to Patistan! Death to Jeckland! Death to Estenia! Death to Nexxus Drako! Death to New Wolfopolis! Death to The Royal Barangay! Death to Berk Island! Death to The Archregimancy! Death to The Serbian Empire! Death to Acedonia! Death to Xylocarpstan! Death to Xylocarp Isle! Death to Britonisea, of which North Britonisea is a part no matter what those idiots say! Death to Super-Llamaland! Death to Miley World! But most of all, Death to Gloriax! Good night!"

by **Friskney Eaudyke** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 3:44 pm

Sports
Eaudyke Times

Group 14 for Eaudyke - qualifying preview
By A. Nonymous

Yes I am back again for another tournament. The management's kept me on for some reason. Sometimes I feel like I'm the only permanent journalist here with all these freelancers replacing the former staff. In fact I'm pretty sure I am the only one left apart from the editor. Whatever keeps this place alive I guess. After all they are paying my wages. Usually.

Anyway, onto the football. After a slightly disappointing Baptism of Fire where they failed to get out of the group, Eaudyke now face an even bigger challenge in World Cup qualifying. I'm sure most of you know what this is, after all, it is one of the biggest tournaments in the multiverse, but if you've been hiding under a rock or just completely oblivious to the world of football, I'll explain. The Baptism of Fire was the tournament for the nations competing for the first time in the World Cup, for example ourselves. Everyone starts out here (unless your name is The Holy Empire), and this is where future World Cup winners are born. That has now passed, and now we move onto the World Cup. Unfortunately, there can only be 32 countries (including the hosts) involved out of the 173 nations playing this time around, so there needs to be qualifiers to separate the best from everyone else. This is the competition that Eaudyke are currently competing in.

The groups for the qualifying stages were drawn yesterday, Friskney Eaudyke are in Group 14 out of 19, along with 8 other countries: Eura, Jeckland, Taeshan, Nova Anglicana, Western Borderlands, Kinitaria, New Ecopia and Isula ĝe Ru. Let's look at the teams in more detail:

Eura
World Ranking: 17th
Best performance: Champions (World Cup 66)
Last time: Joint 2nd in Group C, lost in playoff
Preview: Eura is perhaps one of the weakest pot one teams, but they are still a very good team. The former World Cup winners were unlucky not to progress in the last World Cup, losing to Paradystopia in a rather unusual tiebreaker playoff from their group. Still a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, they are definitely the favourites to qualify from the group stages, and should easily beat Eaudyke by at least a couple of goals at both matches

Jeckland
World Ranking: 105th
Best performance: 5th in qualifying group 1 (World Cup 69)
Last time: 5th in qualifying Group 1
Preview: A decent team who have perhaps underachieved slightly during their qualification campaigns. Should be looking to improve over the 5th place they achieved last time out, put perhaps qualification is a bit far out of reach

Taeshan
World ranking: 47th
Best performance Quarter finals (World Cup 62, 64)
Last time: 2nd in qualifying group 4, lost in playoff
Preview: Taeshan have been going for quite a while now, but while they might not have achieved much of note during their many World Cups, only reaching the quarter finals on two occasions, they have always been up near the top of the group challenging for qualification. This time around will be no different, so expect them to battle hard and pounce on any mistake that the top seeds might make, but their defensiveness may let them down. Don't expect much from when Eaudyke play them, as two losses are almost inevitable.

Nova Anglicana
World ranking: 75th
Best performance: 4th in qualifying group 17 (World Cup 68)
Last time: 4th in qualifying group 5
Preview: A team that seems very consistent judging by them finishing 4th in their qualifying group in every World Cup they've entered, Nova Anglicana perhaps deserve more than what their positions belies. They're a good team, who might've been setting their aspirations on qualification if it wasn't a tough group.

Western Borderlands
World ranking: 319th
Best performance: 4th in Baptism of Fire Group F
Last time: N/A
Preview: Group mates from the Baptism of Fire, Western Borderlands are a slightly more familiar team to Eaudyke than the rest. The group game between the two ended 4-0 in Friskney Eaudyke's favour, which gives the team some hope of winning in the qualifiers. Two wins likely.

Kinitaria
World ranking: 27th
Best performance: 3rd in World Cup Group F (World Cup 69)
Last time: 3rd in World Cup Group F
Preview: Qualified for the World Cup for the first time in World Cup 69, Kinitaria are shaping up to be a good team and perhaps regular qualifiers for the World Cup. However, they aren't entirely safe with perennial qualifying contenders Taeshan also in the group. It'll be interesting to see what happens up at the top but I think they are a good team and should hold on to second place. Eaudyke should expect to be overpowered and lose both their games.

New Ecopia
World ranking: N/A
Best performance: N/A
Last time: N/A
Preview: A returning nation to the World Cup, having last competed in World Cup 63, ending up in a very creditable 6th place in their qualifying group. After that they just disappeared off the map until recently, so we don't know terribly much about them. Should be two wins for Eaudyke, and a last place finish for the Ecopians.

Isula ĝe Ru
World ranking: 175th
Best performance: Baptism of Fire winners
Last time: N/A
Preview: Probably the best sixth seed there is. Their team's morale will be sky high after winning the most recent Baptism of Fire, going unbeaten throughout the tournament, including a 5-0 semi-final win against Estenia. They're looking pretty good at the moment and might upset some of the more established teams in the group. Eaudyke's hopes for a result against them rely on a good defensive performance at home where they may snatch a draw, if they're lucky.

And finally:

Quadring Eaudyke
World ranking: 281st
Best performance: 3rd in Baptism of Fire Group F
Last time: N/A
Preview: The previews above may not paint a good picture for Eaudyke, with me predicting that they will lose against most of the teams. And in all likelyhood they probably will, after all we are inexperienced at this level and other teams who are more established will look at us as an easy target. But who knows. Luck is one of the factors in this tournament and it may prove to be an important one. Maybe we will get lucky and cause a few upsets. It's always a possibility. Just don't expect it.

Next up: Home vs. Western Borderlands
Our final Baptism of Fire game will also coincidentally be the first game of the World Cup qualifying, where Eaudyke again play Western Borderlands, this time at home. The match will take place at Silverlands, home of Ramsbottom FC and will serve as Eaudyke's home ground for most of qualifying. The ground has a capacity of 6,000 and there are seated and standing tickets available.

by **The Saint James Islands** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 4:59 pm

And so it begins...

Marvin’s alarm went off for what seemed like the umpteenth time today. As the sleepy defender went to turn off his alarm in his Georgetown hotel, he couldn’t help but rise slightly from his sleep to check the time.

09:00.

Marvin Sessions shot out of bed, already late to yet another practice session. Why does Archambault have to schedule these things so damn early? he thought as he pulled on whatever clothes he could find in his suitcase. His bag with his practice kit would be with Mikaere like it always was.

As he rushed downstairs to the little café to get some badly-needed caffeine for his system, the barista greeted Marvin with a smile and a surprise coffee.

"But I didn’t order this."

"Someone else ordered it for you and paid the tab."

"Really?"

"And they also left a note for you, sir."

Marvin snatched the paper out of the young woman’s hand to read the chicken scratch it contained.

Marvin,

I knew you would wake up late again, so I bought you your morning coffee.

- Mikaere Raia

Marvin turned his head up and dropped his arms in frustration as the only word he could manage to mutter was a long and drawn out "Mikaere..."

"Thank you for the coffee, madam. I have to go now. Here’s my tip."

Marvin put a couple Labour Credits down on the counter and ran off, trying to get to whatever train or bus he could in the capital’s goddamned convoluted transit system. He’d get to Sempton (SEN-tun) if it was the last thing he did.

a century of excellence | 19 november 2014

world cup qualifying preview: what a mess
fèdèracion releases "tour of omerica" home venue plan, screws up nation name on entry forms

Georgetown, Victoria - Excitement is abuzz in the Commonwealth as the World Cup qualifying campaign approaches yet again. Gregoryisgodistan have issued their mandatory crazy ramblings, people are wondering how horses could possibly have gained sentience and the national team are gearing up to screw up everything they possibly can yet again. And this time, the Fèdèracion Futballista d’Omerica have decided to join them! So amid the collapsing political regimes, wars only tangentially connected to sports and all the other intrigues of the World Cup, here we go again...

the preparations
After a blunder in which the FFO forgot to specify the name change of the country to the World Cup Committee, the governing body have agreed to participate in WC70 qualification as "the Saint James Islands". "We screwed up here," said FFO General Secretary Makara Mahana in a phone interview with UCN Sports. "[A]nd we're not going to burden anyone with fixing our mistakes but ourselves. This wasn’t an intentional misstep by anyone but a simple error and we’ll live and life will go on."

The FFO have also retained Jean-Baptiste Archambault, who led Les Oiseaux during the invitational Baptism of Fire tournament after the kidnapping of Jonmanuèl de Ròsas, as the team manager. Archambault in turn has retained his Runner Cup twenty-three. The chemistry of the Triad, not fully tested in its first international tournament, will be pushed to its limits in this gruelling campaign, while the goal is somewhat questionably left in the hands of Gulyèlmo Dessantos, who bled an average of 1.4 goals in the last football season and blew what have should have been an easy victory over arch-rivals United Philibiscostal in the Federation Cup Round of 16. But with a century of caps soon to be upon him, who really cares?

So ʻokoru, tangaka ʻo ʻeti moku, and expect a couple of good things to come out of this qualifying. At the very least, we’ll walk away with some memories.

venues
The FFO has surprised some observers by announcing a plan to rotate venues across the Commonwealth for this edition of the tournament. Widely thought to be because of the upcoming domestic Cup of Lacrosse competition to be held in the venue, the Arena la Rouge will share its home stadium status with three other stadia this campaign.

As usual, the Arena la Rouge will take up hosting duties in the Cup, but won’t host any games in the return leg of the campaign due to said conflicts with the Cup of Lacrosse. Top two seeds, along with co-host San José Guayabal, will get to enjoy the cushy comforts of Philibiscostal, while the other teams will (not really) suffer in the (not really) lesser stadia spread throughout the Commonwealth. The Stadium Saint George in Georgetown will play host to the other two teams above Les Oiseaux in the rankings, while the Arena d’Alopiana will host the sixth and seventh seeds and the Azure Stadium of Mariascola will have the pitch for the last two teams in the group.

Got it? Now let’s stop teasing you about who’s in the group.

les oiseaux schedule:
MD1: @ Yttribia
MD2: vs Oaklands
MD3: @ Arvenia
MD4: vs Nephara
MD5: @ Estenia
MD6: vs Pays d’en Haut
MD7: @ Filopines
MD8: vs San José Guayabal
MD9: vs Quebec

MD10: vs Yttribia
MD11: @ Oaklands
MD12: vs Arvenia
MD13: @ Nephara
MD14: vs Estenia
MD15: @ Pays d’en Haut
MD16: vs Filopines
MD17: @ Equestrian States
MD18: @ Quebec

group one
First seed Nephara (Rank 16) are expected to make whipping boys out of their group-mates and their trip to the Arena la Rouge will be no exception to this rule. The best Les Oiseaux can hope for here is to bleed as few goals as possible away and achieve a draw at home, denying what seem like indomitable masters of Group 1 a perfect record in the Islands. Cross your fingers and don’t hope for much here. These people are on their way to the World Cup in due time.

The Omerican side will face the Royal Kingdom of Quebec (Rank 28) for a second qualifying campaign in a row after the draw. If that wasn’t enough of a coincidence for you, the away game in Quebec will once again be the final shame in a surprisingly good campaign. While the appearance of 54-year-old Frederic Beauchemin on the roster is raising some eyebrows, the Quebecois have a solid squad with a good shot at World Cup glory and the Arena la Rouge is the only stadium in the country worthy of such a team. Not to mention the French-speaking community in Philibiscostal will be more than thrilled to make fellow francophones feel welcome.

The press of Yttribia (Rank 51) have been sure to flatter the Omericans by showering them with kind words and we don’t know why. Maybe they want us to go easy on them when they face us in the Stadium Saint George. Not like we could’ve expected much from this matchup, but it will at least be funny to watch all the coaches in Omerica look dumbfounded as the Yttribians cast doubt upon Gulyèlmo Dessantos’s capability on goal. This is a squad that can sure give the Quebecois a run for their money, so don’t be surprised if you see them in the play-offs.

If you want to talk about falls from grace, Filopines (Rank 70) were one of the teams that were not expected to fall this low. Just fourth seed in the group after so many wonderful things had been expected from them a few cycles ago, a loss for the Filipinos at the Stadium Saint George is not entirely out of the question. It’ll be a tough, uphill battle, but Filopines are the kind of team Les Oiseaux can nick three or four points off of.

After screwing up the registration forms, the Saint James Islands (Rank 143) are the middle seed in this pot, providing a very convenient breaking point in the FFO’s Tour of Omerica venue plan. Tipped by Nepharan and Yttribian press to be capable of pipping Filopines for fourth spot and pulling off an upset against Quebec or Yttribia, we can’t exactly go into the qualifying campaign thinking we’ve already lost. A young, home-grown squad who play their strengths on their sleeves gives our side a good shot at pulling off some questionable surprises in this campaign, but the lack of wing players could come back to haunt Archambault later. Ultimately, we can’t help but feel justified in Archambault's desire to "push for third" and while it will take a lot of dedication and luck, no one should roll their eyes at the sight of green shirts and blue shorts yet.

Tipped to be the overrated side of the group, Estenia (Rank 207) really do act like it. Posturing as the best of the best, there’s no way these people can really be serious. Whoop-dee-doo, you came in fourth in that Baptism thing. Who cares? We learned our lesson really fast: the Baptism of Fire is essentially meaningless and the World Cup qualifying campaign is the true test of a team’s worth. Now the Estenians need to put up and pull off an upset or shut up and get off the pitch.

The Oaklands (Rank 281) are regional champions, which is no laughing matter, so Les Oiseaux need to be careful here. They have all the potential to be a spoiler here and the solid squad might be the one thing standing between Les Oiseaux and that fourth spot the Nepharans and Yttribians were talking about. SeaBet have the Oaklands pegged at better odds to upset Les Oiseaux and Filopines than Estenia do, so take that as a compliment. You know what they say: the worse their Baptism, the better their qualifiers. Unless...

...you’re these people. The tinpot dictatorship in Pays d’en Haut (Rank 319) might be executing their entire team pretty soon. (Yes, senseless capital punishment jokes aren’t funny. I promise to stop making them once the campaign begins.) While a point from Les Oiseaux is in the question from their home game, we aren’t expecting too much from them. Another lesson Les Oiseaux quickly learned? Passion can only get you so far. Experience is the true maker of a team. We fear that another team will soon learn that same lesson.

And then there’s Arvenia (Unranked), whom we’ve never fucking heard of in our lives. We’re questioning whether they even intended to enter the World Cup or just took a wrong turn on their way to the bingo tournament across town. To the other teams of Group 1: You get six points! You get six points! Everybody gets six points!

Look on the bright side: at least we can have a whipping boy in this campaign. As we bend over to take it from Nephara, we should count ourselves lucky that this campaign won’t be all that bad...

for your reading pleasure

FFO issues two decades of international competition bans over "tanking" scandal ▶
NDL opposition scolds DSA over Environment Minister's SMS scandal ▶
La Corona: Rosenkränts "not moving" to Sassari ▶
Fires hit royal palace in Fishing Boat Proceeds, royal family "unharmed" ▶

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by **Ceni** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 5:00 pm

Forcible Conversion
We look forward to the day when all citizens of the world have access to basic human rights - rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Yet we fear that day will never come - there are governments in this world who only serve to deny their citizens their fundamental rights and to enrich those in charge. The government of the Holy Republican Empire (formerly the Free Republics) is one of these governments. The Free Republics, when they were called that, were neither a republic nor free, nor are they republican today. Instead, they are ruled by a cadre of religious figures whose only intent is to deprive their citizens of liberties, replace all independent thought with the unyielding dogma of their strict brand of fundamentalism, and enrich themselves and their cronies. Indeed, their invasion of the nation of Ciqi only proves their intent of making their religion the sole religion in this world. They claim to be invading Ciqi in order to free its populace from a restrictive government that that prohibits free exercise of faith, but in reality, the new government they are planning to install is no better than the one that they are determined to replace. The Church of Saintland wishes to impose its views, and only its views, on the population of Ciqi. They claim to be for religious freedom, but what they intend for Ciqi is not religious freedom. Religious freedom is being allowed to practice your religion without government interference. It does not mean that the government can impose its beliefs on you, nor does it mean that you can impose your beliefs on the government. What the former Free Republics' so-called liberation is is not a liberation from an oppressive government. It is an invasion, an invasion of territory and an invasion of belief. It is an invasion designed to enrich the Church and enslave the population of Ciqi to unforgiving masters. The former Free Republics do this in the name of God, but no god in our pantheon would condone the wanton destruction and havoc that the Church of Saintland wishes to create. The Church of Saintland also wishes to destroy the lives of women throughout this world. They wish to end contraception - they wish to create babies, yet they would not support those children with a good education, good healthcare - only lives of slavery to the bigwigs in the top of the church hierarchy in the name of doing work for God. They wish to ignore the fact that contraception would dramatically reduce maternal mortality. They wish to ignore the fact that are hypocrites - they support the life of unborn babies who have no capacity to choose anything, and they do not support the life of people who can choose, who have the capability to choose. They should support the lives of endangered lizards and snakes if they want to oppose contraception. All of these points show that the Church of Saintland opposes the very principle of life that they claim to support. They oppose mother's lives, they oppose Ciqians' lives, they oppose children's lives. Their only wish for invading Ciqi is not to support the idea of their God - it is to force Ciqi to believe what they believe. We have a moral duty to oppose this attempt at forcible conversion. It is one of our darkest moments when a government will stoop down to invasion to tell people what to believe in. It is one of our darkest moments when human life is totally disregarded in favor of money for the coffers of the church. It is in these darkest moments we must focus to see the light. We must wonder whether there is any light in this situation, but we must also focus. We must be a magnifying glass in a dark forest in hopes that we will one day make a spark. We must be a bringer of light in these dark times, hearkening back to centuries ago when irrationality ruled the land. Irrationality over religion was the cause of great many deaths and great many atrocities. We must prevent more deaths, more atrocities, more loss of freedoms, for what we have when we have nothing is our conscience, our morality, and our rights. We fight to defend those rights we have held so dear here. We must bring this call to Saintland and the Free Republics. Their people have been lacking the freedom to chose what they believe in for centuries. We will bring it to them. We wish to affirm the principles that have brought us through years of strife and also years of peace. We wish to affirm the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness - and we will oppose anyone who wishes to take those basic human rights away. For light, for knowledge, for action!

by **Hicana** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 5:14 pm

Silvio Rivera was nervous. It was three nights before his first Presidential Debate, and polls showed him lagging far behind the popular eco-isolationist Solomon Ervine and Samuel Antony, the young Liberal candidate. Rivera, in the latest polls, had dropped to thirty-one support from a near-majority forty-seven at Adam Watson's resignation, and his attempts to tout himself as a more moderate candidate than his predecessor were unsuccessful. Not for the first time, he wished that the unpopular Watson hadn't attempted to make him the next president, sans election.

The fact of the matter was that Hicaña was falling apart politically. The Moderate-Rights and the Hicañan Liberals had been sparring ever since Watson took over for the murdered Jody Ramires, and Ervine's Isolationist Party, as well as the extreme-conservatives and extreme-liberals, had been added to the mix. Ever since Miklandia had broken free, the nation, nestled in the isles of the Hollander Sea, had been in constant turmoil. In fact, relative to the standards of larger, stable nations, they had been falling apart politically since their freedom from Super-Llamaland.

Still, Silvio knew that if he could strike the right balance of moderatism and conservativism, he could easily grab large portions both both voting shares. The young, anti-Watson liberals tended to split their votes amongst Ervine and Antony, making things even better. But this was hard doing.

The Hicañan congressman gloomily set down his sheaf of papers and leaned back, futilely trying to savor the last hours of the autumn sunlight. He heard a click behind him as the door opened.

Wait.

He'd instructed nobody to disturb him while he was thinking unless it was urgent. Had the Gregoryisgodistanis sent another wave of bombs flying towards Isle Benoit? He turned around in his chair, slightly anxious but mostly exasperated, and locked eyes with a lone man. At his side, he noted dispassionately, was a gun.

Oh da-

Two gunshots. Then darkness.

The same message was relayed from the gunman to Antonio Sandoval, Rivera's vice-candidate, to the Christian State of Esportiva.

RIVERA IS DEAD, in painfully plain black font.

by **The Royal Kingdom of Quebec** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 7:07 pm

Love hurts- The story of Great War of Montreal: 1959-1978
Part One, of many

Love, love, love. What a wonderful thing, from its magic to curse. Love could do many things. It could heal a destitute into a chevalier, or turn a king to a prostituting hobo.

The Great War of Montreal was an excellent example as thee fault in some stars, right in 1930s Montreal, brew storm and led to what was the most violent gang war in Quebecois history. The war lasted for 19 years and killed 3,089 Montrealers from it. Almost all of the Montreal's rich took part to some extent of the conflict, including all its mayors during the war, and it was rumored that even members of Quebecois royal family took part in this bloody war, affecting the whole nation in turn as it entered the years of urban violence and fear.

And it all happened because of love.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Goldfarb's Delicatessen, Montreal, Royal Kingdom of Quebec
12th of December, 1931

It was snowy in Montreal, for once. Montreal's streets were normally this snowy, but every once in a while it would snow to such an extent that it would be next to impossible for people to move around. This was one of those nights. People, once done with work, would have to take either extremely slow streetcars or sparsely-located subway through stations. Walking was next to impossible to do, simply due to the depth of snow on the streets, while the buses simply were out of service.

Patrizio Monty had finished his shift at Goldfarb's, a well-renowned delicatessen, but decided to stay for a bit longer as he waited Jana and Daniel to arrive. He loved this place. He, on 16th year of his life, was hired as a dishwasher and rapidly climbed up the ranks. Being a poor boy who was raised in inner-city district of Veronaville under his mother, Srul soon filled the void left by his father who was killed in a plane crash. Then 46-year old Jewish Quebecois rented him a small apartment by his 3-floor restaurant and paid for his tuition when Patrizio went on study at world-reknowned Farrer University.

Patrizio, feeling indebted to his boss and would-be-FoI(Father in law), worked harder to meet the debt, spending 8 hours every night to make his ends met, which includes working overtime in weekends. This impressed his masters, and he quickly rose through the ranks. Now 23 and in his 7th year working, he was a much-established man. While he still lived in the very same apartment of old, he managed to fill them up with proper furniture. He earned the favour of Srul Goldfarb, who promised him his succession to the ownership and operations of the Delicatessen, unless he wanted his way out in which he would give Patrizio financial support to start a new business. He had almost everything he wanted.

Almost everything.

He felt the anxiety and excitement mixing each other as he waited for Angela Atholstan to arrive. Angela, the first grandchild of the well-known QNR mogul, was his childhood sweetheart. They first met in Lancaster College, a prestigious private school in Westmount, 5 kilometres North of Veronaville. Those two, Angela the yacht-sailing rich girl and Patrizio tough-edged student on scholarship, met on their first day under Mr. Mulowaluendu's English class.

They, despite their differences, quickly developed their friendship thanks to similar interests in life. He would come to her soccer matches while she would cheer for Monty's Lancers, to which he would respond by bashing through people as he ran for a TD. They often studied together, often in school libraries or in late nights, her place. All the pieces fit together perfectly, like a Guayabalense and his oil.

It was in grade 12 that he would develop acute sentiments towards her, as they were on their final stretch of rigorous time in Lancaster College. But then Patrizio held back his sentiments, knowing that he's not of proper financial status to earn such a luxury of a relationship.

So he waited, still going together to Year 12 Prom at Leominster Hall, as his high school years ended quickly. In university he still was close friend of her, but fewer did they talked, simply due to his busyness and occupation with his work. That didn't stop Patrizio from loving and thinking about her. He was just waiting for his time to bind, when he would be of proper worth to find his job.

Tk, tk, tk.

Patrizio turned around, as he heard the sounds of footsteps coming from left of him, to a table where he was sitting. It was El Whirlo, his good friend from Veronaville. He was dressed in elegant suit, with his muscles still showing in a fine frame of his body. He was smiling, like how he'd normally do when he's with his close friends. Like himself he was also from lower class, the eldest of 6 children to Nino and Isla Torbellino.

They were good friends since kindergarten and remained close as usual, despite their differing paths taken. Patrizio took his academics and athletics to Lancaster and Goldfarb's, successfully placing himself in the Jangsa(restaurant) world, while El Whirlo took his grit and ties to the underworld, starting from the bottom to top of his field. When his boss, the abominable Rodolfo Cortez, passed away, he took over the reins of 500-men gang 5 years ago. Then, with the discovery of oil in the Gaspecie, he aggressively invested in them, raking money off the control of lucrative oilfields of the pristine Chaleur Bay.

Now he was rich as hell, and like his usual self indulged upon excesses that he only dreamed of in past. He went from nothing to top, making him feel very jealous.
Still, brushing those sentiments aside, he smiled and greeted his old friend.

"Good to see you again, Whirly."

by **Felix** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 8:12 pm

WORLD CUP 70 - 24 Hr Cutoff Warning
EQUESTRIAN STATES & SAN JOSÉ GUAYABAL

You wanna know something ironic? My first post in this RP thread is about you guys needing to start posting before those 24 (or 25) hours fly by and bite you in the butt and yet I haven't posted my own RP.

Anyways, 24 (or 25) hours till the Felixian cutoff happens. Good luck! And remember, always save your RP so you don't lose your work. Trust me. It's heartbreaking when you do lose your work.

by **Mizuyuki** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 8:48 pm

WC70 - it's that time of year again
Our expert analyses group 13 and the Nova's prospects

It's only been one year since the last World Cup came around, but I think I speak for all of us fellow enthusiasts when I say it feels like it's been an eternity. It's certainly been a hell of a long time since we last saw the Nova take the field, with our last official appearance coming in the form of a triumphant, if somewhat subdued, 3PPO victory against the monks of the Monastic Republic in CoH 61. Ardent fans may have been willing to sell their soul to the devil for a sight of Isshiki giving an opposition defender the runaround, or catching a glimpse of Ishibashi's ridiculously sublime passing, but it has been slim pickings so far. With Shirakiin being her usual secretive self, it has surprised no observers that nary a sight has been seen of our heroines save for the odd appearance at a public function.

Can you blame me, then, for literally salivating at the mouth at the prospect of sixteen action packed matchdays that will see our much vaunted team square off against the likes of Atrua, Patistan, and the immortally named HAUAHUHAU? Weak jokes aside, it is a relief - the kind of blessed relief that an undergrad experiences after struggling through finals of a most unpleasant disposition - that the monotony of the previous ten months will finally be slaked by what will likely be a concerted, and eventually successful, eighteen-matchday campaign; after two consecutive cycles of heartbreak and disappointment, there is no doubt that the team will come back with renewed vigour, all the better for their previous failures and slip-ups.

But I digress. Let us delve into the meat and gristle of this article, then; the stuff that I'm paid to churn out on a regular basis.

Group 13. It seems just a smidgen ominous, does it not? Or at least that seems to be the case for our fellow journalists from the most Orthodox, and dare I say it - most backward, country of Atrua. Luckily for us, our Oriental traditions have no place for such old-fashioned Western superstition; discounting the fact that we have landed one of the multiverse's top five national teams, Vilita, Group 13 seems almost childishly simple to navigate. I don't presume to be an expert, despite having spent the best part of five years studying the mesmeric art that is Equestrian hoofball, but I think it is safe to say that the Nova's group seems to be sorely lacking in absolute quality. While there can be no doubt that top seeds Vilita are the best team to grace the group, and our very own Nova coming in as second seeds, our fellow group members seem to be lacking a similar level of footballing pedigree.

Straight off the bat, we have the delectably-named Sandwich Territories; though I am in no doubt as to their sandwich-making capabilities, I would be lying through my teeth if I said that the Sandwichians had me unduly worried. A cursory glance at their roster does not turn up any surprises or otherwise alarming facts - indeed, there are very few players of note despite the minor rank disparity between the Sandwichians and the Nova. The creaking and indisputably ancient defence, comprising thirty-six-year-old Seung Riese and elder statesman Brennus Guarneri, captain of the Sandwichians, will be tested to the limit by the Nova's electric pace in attack; it remains to be seen how Shirakiin will set up to maximise the Nova's advantage in this aspect and pummel their opponents into submission. Attacking-wise, there does not seem to be a single focal point of attack despite their slightly attacking style of play; therefore, the Nova's defence will need to divide their attentions equally between the likes of Barukh Kjeldsen, Alexander Wolff and Finnán Pavia. Although it is not immediately apparent, there seems to be a soft core to this Sandwichian team that is just waiting to be exploited by a tactically astute team, and Shirakiin will no doubt be eager to get at the soft underbelly and extract maximum points from this side.

Up next to bat are our good Orthodox friends from Atrua. Under Jacob Howard's stewardship, this Atrua team have turned in several solid showings in the recently-concluded Baptism of Fire; however, we must remember that World Cup qualification is very much a different beast compared to the aforementioned Baptism. An extremely defensive style, coupled with the presence of several man-mountains scattered throughout the team, is enough to make the Atruans look formidable, if nothing else. Blessed with the immense talents of the superbly named Gordon “the Hammer” Toren and Hans ”Gandalf” Mitterand, both weighing in at more than twice the weight of our less physically endowed players, there can be no illusions about the kind of game that Howard is setting out to play; a defensive style reliant on sheer physicality and set-piece prowess. Owing to the Nova's well-documented deficiencies in defence, such an aberration of a playing style might reap rewards against lesser teams with similar deficiencies; however, I foresee the Nova's irrepressible offensive triumvirate wreaking havoc amongst the horrendously slow and bulky Atruan defenders. Such bulk can only mean that their pace is limited to an extent as a result, and therefore the likes of Isshiki, Kurugaya and Tsuchimikado, pace merchants all, should find plenty of joy against the Atruans. I can see it now; the Nova's more offensively oriented players skipping past the lumbering Atruan defenders and their clumsy challenges while delighting in the sheer ease of doing so, all while putting the ball in the net. All in all, it will be a crying shame if we do not manage to secure another six points against markedly inferior opposition. Shirakiin's girls should have no problem comfortably disposing of a team ranked a meagre 281st in the multiverse.

Cata Larga, the fifth seed clocking in at 149th after a decent run in last cycle's Baptism of Fire, is perhaps one of the more intriguing teams that have been drawn into Group 13. The Catalarguense had turned in several respectable performances over the course of the aforementioned Baptism, eventually exiting to Laiyenda in the round of sixteen. However, things began to derail in spectacular fashion as the Catalarguense failed to live up to expectations in the subsequent World Cup qualifications, finishing in a dismally low position in their group as hopes again began to fade into the mist. However, the presence of head honcho Enrie Cevierine - an individual who can perhaps be best described as 'so persistently short of breath, it's a wonder he doesn't need an oxygen mask' - the Catalarguense will be looking to swiftly rebound this time around. The Acociatiëne de Kiëlcië Catalargüense have been immensely generous with their information; saving me from having to perform the onerous task of watching endless videos of mediocre air shots and astonishing goalkeeping fumbles, they have helpfully listed their players together with a short assessment of their abilities. A brief perusal of the Catalarguense roster tells us all we need to know about their team; centre-forward and captain extraordinaire Pietre da Varaisca is apparently the man to look out for. Not that we needed them to tell us that fact; Shirakiin will certainly be ordering her players to keep an eye on the twenty-four-year-old CD Barrio El Niño player, especially in a cycle in which he won the Guayabalense Golden Boot.

Kristiane ia Klerka is perhaps another significant challenge for the Nova's defence, especially the young Rin Natsume; a direct, pacy player who has struck up a telepathic understanding with da Varaisca in front of goal, Shirakiin will need to cut off the supply from midfield in order to starve these two outstanding attacking players of service and ensure that they do not have an impact on proceedings. Defensively speaking, however, Cata Larga are simply awful; the information contained in the AKC alludes to the same in much more direct fashion. To me, the Nova's matchups against Cata Larga will be won in the centre of the park; if the midfield pairing of Ishibashi and Saten can manage to stifle the creative and attacking output of da Varaisca and ia Klerka, there is no reason why the rest of the Catalarguense defence will not be easy pickings for the Nova's attacking quadrumvirate. Given the glaringly obvious flaws in the Catalarguense team, together with the massive rank difference, it will be a disappointment if we do not glean six out of six from Enrie Cevierine's aggressive team.

Going down the list, we have 71st ranked Maklohi Vai. The MVFA, usually so reliable when it comes to roster submission, have been oddly tardy this time around; with just over twenty four hours to go before the first matchday kicks off, the Vaians have yet to present a complete list of players to the WCC. This state of affairs have severely limited our scouting efforts, although the cubicle monkeys over here at HQ have managed to secure a copy of the Vaian roster for World Cup 69, so it's not all doom and gloom. Outdated information notwithstanding, the WC69 roster provides us with some insight as to the manner in which Osarius's Ishmael Walker will set out his stall; a defensively-minded team, the Vaians are likely to stay compact and catch their opponents on the break. A 5-3-2 formation highlights the emphasis which Walker places on the defence, and judging from their previous appearances in World Cup qualifying, their defence is certainly a force to be reckoned with. However, and this is a big one - their proficiency in defence is more than countered by embarrassingly profligate showings in front of goal. Out of all the sides in group 13, it might not be an exaggeration to say that the Vaians rank amongst the most offensively-challenged; hell, I would not be surprised in the slightest if the likes of Atrua and Valientus outscore them by a considerable margin come the end of qualifying. The main obstacle to overcome in our matchups against the Vaians will be their iron wall, as it were, but I remain very much confident that the Nova's electric attack will find a chink in that seemingly-impervious armour and force six points from Maklohi Vai.

Ah, Patistan, those overenthusiastic children from Esportiva. Many's the time when I used to browse a video-sharing website for videos of Patistani footballing exploits after a long day at work - fifteen hilarious minutes later I would be rejuvenated and firing on all cylinders after a refreshing session of belly-aching laughter. Truly, the Patistani have come a long way since they first stumbled across the joys and wonders of WCC football. Like their counterparts in Maklohi Vai, the Patistani Football Federation - whose officials are admittedly more absent minded than the scrupulous Vaians - have neglected to submit an official roster for this edition of World Cup qualifying, and as such I am again forced to have recourse to Patistan's roster for World Cup 69. Poor substitute it may be, as far as scouting reports go, but it will have to do for the time being. Running the rule over the Patistani players, I am once again vindicated in my belief that the Jungle Cats and the Nova are head and shoulders above the rest of the teams in this mediocre group; discounting any raw diamonds they might have unearthed in the meantime, the Patistani team looks desperately short of any true quality. When you have to substitute a dime-a-dozen five-a-side players of poor quality into your national team starting XI, it is no doubt a sign of desperation; frankly speaking, it smacks of grasping at straws, hoping against hope that performances will seamlessly transit from five-a-side football to the rigours of professional association football. Granted, they are currently ranked a respectable 108th in the multiverse, but this fact is more than balanced out by the equally relevant fact that the Patistani are consistently inconsistent; woeful performances are oftentimes followed up by decent showings. More often than not, however, they fail to turn up against the big hitters, and this is what has ultimately doomed them to irrelevancy. Once again, our mercurial manager will be shooting for maximum points against this Patistani side, and she will be most unlucky if her team does not manage to fulfill that target.

Scanning the list, the breath is physically forced from me as I silently read the final name off the list of Group 13. Vilita. The Jungle Cats, as strong as they have ever been, if not stronger, are virtually a lock on for World Cup qualification every single edition; indeed, it is a rare Finals that does not see the famed Jungle Cats strutting their stuff on the grandest stage of them all. Nycflala Kater's powerful side will, no doubt, be aiming to continue their hot qualification streak against a hapless group 13 - which, judging by the relative quality of the remaining contenders, will be an easy task for them. Just as the likes of, say, Patistan and Atrua, are woefully lacking in star power, as it were, the Jungle Cats have it all - aside from the World-Cup winning midfielder Lopaki Kilpter, they can also call upon players of sheer quality such as centre half Amarini Baracelv and Nili Ylimaiina, to name but two. Although their performances can be shocking at times - most notably falling against unranked GSAZ in last cycle's WCQs - this Vilitan side are certainly a force to be reckoned with. Many pundits are already tipping them to push on from a WC68 victory and cement their place amongst the multiverse's best ever sides in this cycle's Finals. Shirakiin will likely have her hands full in trying to outsmart her Vilitan counterpart in the dugout; she will certainly have to be on top form if the Nova are to stand a chance against the Jungle Cats. One factor that may work in our favour is the schedule; the Nova do not face Vilita before matchday five of qualification, and as such we have the opportunity to build up some much-needed momentum and confidence before we head out to do battle against a truly multiversal-class team. Frankly speaking, I cannot envision Shirakiin's lasses picking up too many points from what promises to be a full-strength Vilitan side; however, if the manager is able to identify flaws in the Vilitan gameplan, we may well be able to mooch several points off Kater's team. It would take a bold man to predict the outcome of this match, at least within the Empire. Nonetheless, I am going to stick my neck out and say that we will manage to secure a minimum of two points against our main competitors for mastery in group 13.

So, how does this play out for Shirakiin's Nova? Although a ball has yet to be kicked in the World Cup this cycle, many people are already tipping the battle of group 13 to be a straight fight between Vilita and Mizuyuki. These two footballing powers look set to duke it out for a coveted automatic qualification spot by winning the group outright; however, given the considerably lower relative quality of the rest of the group, the loser might also be able to challenge for a qualification spot by virtue of being one of the few best second placed teams. I will admit that I am less than happy to have drawn Vilita, especially when the likes of Paradystopia and and the Blouman Empire were in Pot One; a sentiment that is no doubt shared by many Mizuyukian fans across the multiverse. However, I will say that the Nova are a talented, superb squad that will only get better as the years progress; they may not be rubbing shoulders with the multiverse's cream of the crop in their current position, but come the end of qualifying, we may well see a pulsating, nerve-wracking battle for control of group 13.

As we say in Suisetsu - 'the ball is round, and everything is possible'. I am eagerly looking forward to what promises to be a tension-filled, exhilarating three weeks of football - are you, my dear readers, doing the same?

by **West Angola** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 9:41 pm

Great Eastern Sea, 470 Miles from Farreth Island, 686 Miles from Namibe
Isaac Warren wished he'd sat in the cockpit. While the flight had been without incident so far, he couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. Looking out the window for what seemed like the hundredth time, he couldn't believe the changes which had occurred in his country that had led him to this point. Less than two months previous, all had seemed normal; there had been some murkiness over Queen Anna's illness and a disquieting silence on the matter from Luke and Phillip, but overall it had been a run-of-the-mill World Cup cycle with things quiet on the domestic front. In the space of a few hours, however, that had all changed. The shocking news of Queen Anna's death had been leaked to the Namibe press, and former King August II had inexplicably returned from the dead to lead an angry mob in a march on the palace. Temporarily in charge of the team in Gregoryisgodistan during Phillip's stay with the Queen, Isaac had watched in horror as the updates from West Angola poured in: 8:14AM- Queen Anna dead, Luke Parrish, ex-PM Garrett at center of cover-up; 9:22AM- Former King August II leads popular march on Royal Palace; 10:50AM- Parrish, Garrett, Phillip Garren confirmed dead inside palace; 12:30PM- August II declares "New era of unity" in West Angola; 1:45PM- August II re-crowned King of West Angola; 3:13PM- King August announces reorganization of West Angolan governmental structure, insta-polls in Namibe show 85% approval; 3:15PM- Monarch declares polls constitute a mandate, unilaterally dissolves Parliament, names former MP's Harrison, Prell as "High Ministers."

Things had only spiraled down from there, as August’s supporting triumvirate of the two MP’s and Arel, leader of a radical Bantu faction, had imposed their respective views of long-overdue justice upon the people of West Angola. Thomas Prell, a committed radical communist, established the People’s Court of West Angola, where he tried all but a select few of West Angola’s wealthiest business leaders and aristocrats for their imagined crimes against the populace as a result of their wealth. Scott Harrison, a committed Objectivist and ally of convenience with his ideological anathema, took charge of the High Ministry of Economic Improvement, which essentially meant he submitted a list of sympathetic corporations and business leaders to August and Prell who would be immune to the predations of the communist wing, and was then allowed to lavish favors upon those corporations to his heart’s content, and to deregulate their industries to a point which would have approached masochism in a normal Minister.

Even above the other two, Arel and his Bantu allies had been a whole new level of horror. With covert military and economic the support from the Crown, Arel’s radicals had been empowered to subdue the rest of the Bantu people and become the de facto power in the eastern part of the country. Once they were even more firmly entrenched than before, Arel had finally been able to root out the peacekeeping forces from Namibe that had been attempting to put an end to his genocide, who had been operating without knowledge of the changed situation back in the capital. Once the antiterrorism units had been completely eradicated, the highest-ranking West Angolan prisoner, Colonel Evan Rauner, had been tried by Thomas Prell for all the atrocities committed by Arel’s forces during his long campaign for Bantu dominance. The ostensible revelation of further crimes committed by Queen Anna’s government had re-ignited the flames of anger against her and restored popular support for August’s “reforms.”

With a heavy heart, Isaac, coaching the team in the Cup of Harmony, had realized that he would not be able to return to whatever his country had become. He had offered every member of his team a choice to accompany him to Farreth Island, where former Minister of State Paul Arrat had established a government-in-exile, or to return to West Angola. He had feared he would be making the journey alone, but to his surprise and delight, fifteen people (twelve of them players) had chosen to come with him, and now the group found themselves soaring over the ocean in a private plane flown by Patrick Steichen, a Cuboneland expat hired by Isaac. Steichen was the source of Isaac’s unease. While the pilot had seemed open enough during their initial meetings, he had been far more nervous and shifty when Isaac had arrived at the landing strip with the rest of the team, but had insisted everything was in order. Now, with the cockpit door shielding him from investigation, Isaac was growing more and more certain that something was amiss.

He couldn’t deny that his chosen method of travel might be clouding his judgment, however. The original Isaac Warren, he knew, had died under extremely similar circumstances after Baptism of Fire 45, when Thomas Nasser had deliberately crashed the team plane under orders from August II during his first reign. All the same, however, Isaac decided to check on Steichen to salve his nerves, if nothing else. Easing over Jan Pawel under pretense of going to the bathroom, Isaac walked towards the front of the plane and tried to put on a nonchalant expression. Everything’s fine, guys, just your coach walking up to the cockpit. Nothing out of the ordinary here… With every step, the feeling of dread grew, so that by the time he reached the cabin door he was a nervous wreck. Raising his fist and trying unsuccessfully to keep it from shaking, he knocked three times, “Mr. Steichen? It’s Isaac Warren, can I talk to you?”

There was a brief pause, and Isaac feared for a moment that the pilot might be incapacitated, but then his voice issued through the door, “Sure thing, Isaac, come in, the door’s unlocked.” Turning the latch, Warren eased into the cockpit and found, to his relief, all to be normal. With a start, he noticed Steichen was staring at him, waiting for him to speak, and he realized he had no idea what to say to cover up his pretense for opening the door, “Um…well…how are the winds today?” he finished lamely. Steichen raised an eyebrow, “They’re fine. You came all the way up here just to ask me that?”

“Uh…no, I um, also wanted to find out, uh, about how much longer it would be…”

“Oh, well, we’re not too far out, I’m going to make contact with the Farreth tower in about fifteen minutes and sort out everything for our final descent, so it shouldn’t be more than an hour.” Behind him, Isaac saw the plane’s navigation system, and could indeed see a bit of coastline just coming onto the edge of the map from the east. Assured that all was going according to plan, he held up a hand and began backing out of the cockpit, “Alright, that sounds good, Mr. Steichen, sorry to bother yo-” Isaac stopped suddenly and froze; he was right, something was very, very wrong. The coastline is in the wrong place. We should be approaching Farreth from the north, if we’re coming in from the east… More of the area had crept into view on the navigation screen, confirming Isaac’s sudden fears as he recognized the distinctive outline of the Benguela seashore—Steichen was flying them straight into August’s clutches! With a roar of anger, Isaac grabbed the pilot by the collar and shook him, “You bastard! How could you do this? Who are you working for?”

Steichen’s face was oddly calm, “It’s nothing personal, I swear. WASABI got me before I even met with you and offered me enough money to settle a debt with a very dangerous man. I need the money, Warren, and I don’t get it until you and your friends in there are cuffed and locked away.”

Even more stunning than the betrayal was the matter-of-fact way Steichen had confessed. Angry and confused, Isaac shook him roughly, “How can you be so calm, dammit! What’s going on?”

Steichen’s expression didn’t change except for a grimace as a thin trail of blood emerged from his nose, “There’s a bomb in my chest cavity. WASABI knocked me out and slipped it in there after our meeting, and it goes off if we deviate from the course to Namibe. I have a device that will deactivate it, of course, but it won't come online until we touch down in West Angola. Either I die or you do, Warren, I accepted that fact long ago, and now you must accept that there is no escape for you. If the bomb goes off, the explosion if powerful enough to ruin the control panel and send this plane diving into the water. There’s no escape either way, and if you wait you might just find yourself alive as a political prisoner rather than going down to a watery grave.”

His helplessness enraged him still further. It seemed like his entire life he’d been jerked around by August. Created in a lab to serve his interests, kidnapped and tortured by his subordinates to get to Luke, surviving while his two closest friends were killed, and now outmaneuvered and trapped, every hardship he’d endured had come from the vengeance-mad ruler. In his anger, insight flared to life, and he saw a way out, “How much wiggle room in the bomb?”

Steichen now looked confused, “About ten miles to either side, with a two-hundred foot ceiling and floor to account for winds and engine trouble, what on earth does that have to do with this?”

Now it was Isaac’s turn to wear a maddening expression, “It tells me how far I need to throw you.” Hoisting the treacherous captain into the air, something his toxin-ravaged body would never have had the strength to do had adrenaline not been coursing through his veins, he backed out into the cabin and turned around, greeted by the shocked faces of his players and fellow coaches. Mustering the strength to grunt, “Belts on.” as he tried to restrain the struggling Steichen, he made his way over to the cabin door and jerked his head at Christian Davis, seated nearest to it next to his fiancée Anna Williams.

“Christian, I need you to loop the emergency cord below your seat through your seatbelt, then pass it around me so I don’t get sucked out when I open the door.” Much to his credit, Davis complied after only a moment of confusion, passing the cord around Isaac’s waist and securing it through his seatbelt, confirming he was ready with a nod. Isaac hefted Steichen to the side and lifted his leg, then brought his foot crashing down onto the latch and straining against the force of the air rushing out as the wind blew the door open. Letting go of the screaming pilot and watching him rapidly drop out of sight, Isaac grabbed the doorway to steady himself as the last of the air fled the cabin and everyone finished affixing their oxygen masks. Making his way back into the cockpit as quickly as he could, Isaac slid the pilot’s mask over his head and collapsed into the chair, thanking God that Steichen had had the plane on autopilot. Tapping the GPS to zoom out, Isaac quickly located Farreth Island and grasped the yoke, hoping the plane wasn’t too hard to control, and that they had enough fuel to make it.

Several hours later, with a lot of instruction from Farreth Tower, Isaac managed to bring the plane to a rough halt after a hard landing that had shaken up more than one of his passengers. As Paul Arrat, accompanied by other senior government officials as well as Sarah Parrish and her children, headed out onto the tarmac to greet the team and the players disembarked for joyous reunions with their surviving friends and relatives, Isaac collapsed back into the seat, stunned and relieved by the enormity of what he’d just accomplished. The original Isaac Warren had died in a plane crash as a result of August’s machinations, but he had survived, and with no flight experience had safely landed a plane with almost no fuel remaining. I may not be the first Isaac Warren, he thought, but I’m definitely one of the best.

by **Sargossa** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 12:04 am

= = = Official Communiqué = = =

To: Someone in charge of sporty things in Gregoryisgodistan, presumably Big Daddy Greg
From: José Carizzo
CC: Foreign Ministry (Exec), Interior Ministry (Exec), Sports Ministry (Exec), OOTP
Re: How to solve a problem like World Cup Fixtures

To whom it may concern,

Following the recent pairing of Sargossa and Gregoryisgodistan at the qualification draw for World Cup 70 we have been forced to make a somewhat drastic announcement. While we pride ourselves on being a warm, welcoming and hospitable nation it is a sad truth of the times we live in that this welcome is not quite extended to everyone. Consequently, following a recent change to entry regulations, no citizen of Gregoryisgodistan will be applicable for a Visa to enter Sargossa or any of its affiliate territories. Anyone found in contravention of these regulations will be immediately expelled from the country.

But, in the interests of sporting integrity, we are willing to temporarily waive this directive for those listed on the official Gregoryisgodistani team roster as submitted to the World Cup Hosting Committee. Visas will be granted to those listed, and only those listed, and will be valid for the duration of the relevant international matchday window and no longer. During that window the Gregoryisgodistani delegation will have access to a team hotel of our choosing, training facilities of our choosing and escorted transit to both the stadium and airport. No further travel will be permitted.

These measures may seem a touch unfair but rest assured they have been discussed and ultimately agreed at the very highest level and no compromise will be considered. Bear in mind that it is your citizen’s unwillingness or inability to adhere to seemingly every tenet of international law, not to mention basic human decency, which has led to these measures being introduced. We witnessed first-hand the chaos they caused at the recent Olympic Games and have no desire for a repeat performance on Sargossan soil.

No doubt this communique will be met with your usual brand of boring rhetoric, complete with violent hyperbole and a typical panoply of threats against Sargossan citizenry. Naturally we have strongly advised against all travel to Gregoryisgodistan but, upon consultation with various supporters groups, we have established that uptake on our matchday one ticket allocation currently stands at zero. So only our own officially rostered delegation will be making the journey. In the same spirit of sporting integrity we will show you, we trust their trip will be both short and uneventful.

Yours,

José Carizzo
Minister For Foreign Affairs
Republic of Sargossa

= = = Official Communiqué = = =

by **Kazamatsuri** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 1:57 am

"... the weather looks to be taking a turn for the worse today, as typhoon Igusa, taking a dramatic change in course, is set to hit the Isles of the Wind in just over two hours. All Kazamatsurian residents are advised to remain indoors for the duration of the typhoon, as strong gale force winds are predicted. The Imperial Commissioner has instituted a Level I emergency for the time being ..."

Gripping the remote control tightly in his gnarled hands, the old man eased himself from the couch, grimacing in pain as his aged frame contorted. Willing his tired, aching body to obey, he shuffled, with a painfully slow gait, to the small, grimy window of his bachelor apartment overlooking the Bay of Ichigo.

It cost him the better part of five minutes, not to mention no small amount of agony. A rueful thought fluttered in the dank, dark atmosphere; 'my body isn't what it used to be.' The elderly figure who now struggled even to relieve himself was once the best sailor this side of the Scattered Isles; but the seas had taken its toll on him. Those who did not escape its clutches were doomed to become broken, infirm men.

Casting a weary glance at his rough, work-worn palms, the old man could only muster a wry smile.

The deafening silence, broken only by the distant crackling of the ancient television, was overpowering. Visibly hesitating for a heartbeat, the old man started to bring his arthritic hand up to the heavy curtains, intent upon casting the heavy fabric aside and seeing, for himself, the beast of a typhoon that was even now brewing in the darkness of the night, biding its time with the infinite patience of the sage as it waited for an opportune moment to strike.

For every second that he stood, motionless, before the curtains shielding him from the sight of the lashing rain and brewing storm, thoughts of mighty, roaring waves threatening to sweep him away with every renewed charge; of howling winds, carrying upon them the echoing cries of those lost at sea, raced through his mind at incredible speed.

It had been many a year since he had last set foot outside his dreary, spartan apartment; and many more years since his last, and greatest voyage. He had never been content as a simple fisherman. As he approached his mid-fifties, he set his heart upon one thing and one thing only - being the captain of a deep sea trawler. It was the perfect target, he reasoned, the climax of a life spent on the seas; the crowning moment of his entire life. All who knew him knew him as the simplest of men. This was the first, and only, time in his life that he had ignored common sense.

Gone were the last stirrings of rationality. Vanished were the wisps of logic. Despite being well acquainted with the fact that someone on the wrong side of fifty had a snowball's chance in hell of commanding one of the modern trawlers, he would not be dissuaded from his goal, come hell or high water.

Armed with the seafaring knowledge he had slowly and painfully accumulated at great cost over the years, he made his way from his sleepy, isolated village in the northwest to the industrial docks of Kizuna, where he inquired as to where he might find a suitable billet. He did not ask for a handsome salary, nor did he demand unreasonable requests of his prospective employer; truly, all he wished for was a year or two on the high seas, a true voyage, instead of a piddling little fishing trip.

At first, not a single vacancy appeared to be open for a man like himself; the wealthy bastards all opting for young, enthusiastic captains fresh out of vocational school to take their spots. Experience did not count for anything, not when the young 'uns could trump his years of hard, honest work with a mere forty-eight months of bookwork. Everywhere he went, he was bitterly disappointed by rejection after rejection. His head hung low after the receipt of every solemnly delivered rejection, yet hope burned within his soul. He was not a man who had gone to seed, neither in a physical nor a mental sense; for beneath his worn exterior, there remained the heart and soul of an exuberant young sailor.

By Kirigiri's good grace, he eventually managed to locate a suitable employer. A man who had come into a minor legacy, including a fleet of trawlers in a state of utter disrepair, after the death of a distant relative, the young, clean-shaven man made a positive first impression on the rugged old fisherman, an impression that was only reinforced after he managed to talk the gullible youngster into allowing him to captain one of his oldest trawlers.

It took five months of hard, earnest work and much expense on the owner's part before the vessel was deemed seaworthy.

Dispossessing his mind from the painful memories of years gone by, the old man shook his head, as though clearing the hazy smoke that had descended upon his mind. In an instant, he resolved to draw those confounded curtains apart and see, witness, bathe in the pure emotion that he always felt whenever he encountered a storm at sea.

Even though it had been at least three decades since that fateful night in Kizuna, his memories of the events that followed remained as fresh as ever.

Steeling himself to the core for the glorious sight that lay beyond his curtains, the old man reached out, exerting himself as he slowly, purposefully, drew the curtains aside. Once his fingertips came into contact with the coarse fabric, his earlier hesitation evaporated, replaced by a steely, even fiery determination that permeated his very being.

A crack of dark night peeped from beyond the veil. Even as the old man rocked on the balls of his feet, his motions almost imperceptible in the darkness, a harshly bright flash of lightning illuminated the crack for a heartbeat, immediately accompanied by a jarring roll of thunder overhead. He shuddered, bracing himself against the curious mix of emotions boiling within his core - the essences of fear, hope, despair and exhilaration combined to form a unique cocktail.

With one last ragged intake of breath, he threw the curtains apart with as much force as he could muster, exposing the dusty room to the first natural light that had visited it in years.

A flash of blue lightning streaked across the darkening sky, illuminating the rolling clouds with an unearthly glow.

For a split second, the old man caught sight of the object of his desire. That which he had lusted after for year upon year had finally deigned to grace him with its presence.

Even as he stared at the preternatural presence, a veritable monolith of fiery red and freezing blue striking a harsh contrast against the darkness of the night, the old man felt himself overtaken by a wash of emotion; the pent-up frustration and yearning, accumulated over all those years, finally found blessed release at the very second he threw open his curtains.

His last recollection was of a spectral, bluish glow permeating his field of vision and the gentle siren song of the celestial spirits. With a final, dreamy smile affixed on his rugged, lined countenance, the old man - conqueror of conquerors, ruler of worlds - toppled unconscious upon the cold hard concrete of his apartment floor, with an expression of the utmost contentment etched on his face as the ghost of a sign escaped his parched lips.

by **Joshulia** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 10:36 am

[Coach Ralevon's Exclusive Interview is being queued]

Starting XI-

GK: Aleki Laforge- Due to not yet public ally exposed injury during training, the Joshulian Keeper will be absent during the nation's Coming tournament. In his place, from the bench will be Jessica Duveau, a rookie and one of the only two females on the Joshulian team. The twenty three year old from the northern province of Bal-Shek was hand picked by Coach Henric Ralevon, but has seen little to no playing time this season due to Aleki's fabled 'unbreakable' quality. We'll be back with more information when it becomes available.

DEF: Ulfri Alesnarovich- Twenty five year old, younger brother of the international player Tarrot Alesnarovich, Ulfri is on an entirely different level than his sibling. One can't forget, however, the allocations against the player ever since the video of a drunken he verbally abusing his girlfriend Eres Jovna. Both have stated this was because of his intoxication but that hasn't stopped local media from capitalizing on the subject.

DEF: Barret Yutang- The twenty one year old Bigtopian immigrant has adapted to the team's new defensive play style. Rather than his usual mixed moves, he's been noted to have a marked difference in his style of play. As usual, there is nothing to report in regards of his personal life.

DEF: Gregory Diaz- With several saves in the albeit lost game against Polaaskan, the twenty five year old from the Joshulian capital was elated during the pair of press conferences he took part in. Always bearing a smile, save the question regarding his mother who was stricken with cancer three months ago, the player stated his confidence in the next game and the team's abilities.

DEF: Lee Nikolayevich- Grandson of the team's head of recruits, the twenty year old, and youngest member, of the Joshulian team has proven that he can hold his own without help from family. His current gameplay, in regards to the defensive stratagem adopted by his team, has been energetic and strong, as it is assumed the young player is eager to prove himself among players such as Diaz and Alesnarovich, as a Defensive player.

MF: Alexander Pointer- After running himself too hard, by halftime the player was exhausted, only able to take the field after shouldering past the team's aids and returning to his position. Information on why Coach Ralevon decided to continue playing Pointer has yet to be gathered.

MF: Podrick Alesnarovich- The second injury on the Josulian team his week, Alesnarovich suffered a broken toe during his off-practice time. While no doctors' reports have been obtained, we can conclude the break was bad enough that his replacement on the team was the thirty three year old from the Joshulian capital of Reperanis,Tobias Grifnon, a veteran to the game and, so far, bench warmer of the tournament.

MF: Nickoli Artem- The team's star player, the twenty nine year old from Jeviti, Joshulia returns from an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Polaaskan, discontently. Reports of the player angry speaking with Coach Ralevon have been all the rage this week in the Joshulian capital. They've dubbed the man "Argu-tem", a play on the occurrence. On the field, Artem is sticking to his usual play style, as opposed to the rest of the team's primarily defensive tactics, Nickoli continues his brutal attacking style, a style that actually gave him a pair of yellow cards in the first game of this tournament.

FW: Anto Michollet-22,Tomrik Maximovich-22, James Gouriou-23- The Triplets, as they're sometimes called, are back from the baptism of fire's catastrophe and ready as ever. Their refusals to participate in singular interviews have become a tradition-esk ritual for the group, causing most reporters to simply have to settle for inviting the other two into the conversation as well. On the field they've been tight as ever, performing with their signature robotic efficiency.

by **Semarland** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 11:21 am

semarluundik indapadten

Fresh from two friendly wins, a 2-1 victory over Mrevland with Marc Lygaard & Jakob Larsen cancelling out Marcel Latto's opener, and a 3-1 win over Matykland thanks to goals from Marc Lygaard, Demba Cisse and Adren Christiansen-Hallensburg, and with not long left until the first World Cup Qualifer in the Equestrian States, against North Britonisea, here's a preview on the match.

SEMARLAND are unfortunately without two players - left winger Mads Olsen & centre back Nicolas Janzaard. Olsen has a slight knock, but he'll be able to return for the next match against Paradystopia, which will be a difficult clash. Whereas Janzaard will be out for a bit longer, as the FC Jansberg centre-back sustained a knee injury, leaving him out until Matchday 5, when the Semars face The Sarian, again, a important match. Likely to replace them will be either Claes Naemstad or possibly Abel Nkutu for Olsen, depending on the Semarland formation. For Janzaard, either Jakob Lunds or Per Olsen at centre back. Going into the game, it's a pretty strong team, but could be even stronger if Olsen and Janzaard were here.

NORTH BRITONISEA are quite a mysterious team. They've only kept their roster to themselves, the hosts, and the WCC, so unfortunately no team news can be given. They are ranked 357th, Semarland are the favourites to win, but like any team, they should not be underestimated.

by **Polaaskan** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 11:33 am

polaanews

After finish runners-up in the Baptism of Fire, Polaaskan will be looking to replicate that form in their first World Cup Qualification match against Khalifa Arabia, a fellow team in the Baptism of Fire. Polaaskan are ranked nearly 100 places higher against the Khalifa Arabians, despite this they are a very good teams, and will prove a difficult opponent for Polaaskan. Manager Ulrik Leonardsen has released his Starting XI ahead of the game.

by **Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk gorod** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 1:01 pm

OOC: Every opinion, pejorative view or stereotype should be taken in IC context, Evdokiya Filipov is well known for being a pejorative writer if we talk about other nations, having sometimes racist views (The user behind Sakhalin strongly condemns all kinds of racism or similar expressions), also Pobeda Gazeta is an ultra nationalist news paper who tends to write little articles, with strong words in it.

POBEDA GAZETA

11/20/2014

C$0.50 Corona

Editorial: WC Qualifiers, Can Sakhalin make a decent participation?

Written by: Evdokiya Filipov - Category: Sports Editorial Thoughts.

For the second time, Sakhalin have the joy of playing in the face qualifying for World Cup 70, which will be hosted by Equestrian States, if the nation where we see speakers mares who worship a mare that has the role of Princess ... meh manure ... And that nation at the south of Esportiva, yes, I am referring to the "Banana Republic" of San Jose Guayabal, the bananas will host the world cup but better refrain from accusing them, they can send spies to kill me, so I blame both the slag anything I can suffer.

Back on the subject of sport, Sakhalin has to overcome adversity representing the previous World Cup Qualifiers where Audioslavia, aka the nation of the cow in the flag, which in some way or another became real bulls and gored us with humiliation, as this shocking 7-0 that shattered the mood in the hobby. I hope one day take up the matter and we can beat the nation with the cow on the flag.

In this infamous edition of the World Cup, that the infamous "Banana Republic" is going to have a pretty strong organizing group and is likely to be humiliated ... again. For the Love of God, if we have a strong team at least we would not be humiliated but we expect if some of the players as the Romanov case who is a milk vendor. Do not expect much if you do not have a national team with at least semi-professional players, because from my perspective all Banana League player (SJG's Liga Premier) is not even worthy to be called professional.

Anyway, to answer the question of the Editorial, we will be humiliated again due to the mismanagement of our selection. Don't expect that these motherfu*kers who manage the Football Federation will act appropriately and the players who integrates the NT will put our nationalistic pride in tatters. That's all for today's editorial in the sport. Bye.

by **Star United States** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 1:12 pm

SSN
Star Sports News

Back at it again!
- October Road to the World Cup Friendlies
- Opener Trophy I
- World Cup 70 Qualifier Group
- World Cup 70 Qualifiers - Matches

It’s back again, the World Cup Qualifiers, and you’ll be able to watch them here at SSN, with the newest and expensive technology available in the multiverse. Shocking, I know! The World Cup has reached it’s 70th edition, and is to be hosted in Equestrian States and San Jose Guayabal, and the tentative, if no more bids appear, hosts for the Cup of Harmony will be Mizuyuki and Felix. Suprisingly, this four-way host bid has marked history. It’s something different that the multiverse was presented with, with this bid.

Anyway, the qualifiers start today, and will last for the next few weeks, or so, and I have a lot to cover with you all. Firstly, we’ll take a look at the October Friendlies that our country played, a total of six matches. Then, we’ll take a gander at the Opener Trophy I, hosted in World Cup co-host, San Jose Guayabal. Afterwards, we’ll take a peek at the Five-A-Side World Cup II, that has concluded here in our country, and lastly we’ll take a detailed, hopefully, look at our qualifier group, and an interesting mix I might have to say, along with the matches that are to be played and their venues here in Star United States.

October Road to the World Cup Friendlies

A total of six matches were played between Star United States and opposing teams during the second half of the month of October. Two victories, three draws, and one lose, was the marked recorded for the Starians after the conclusion of these friendlies. What is it with Star United States and draws? It seems like we're drawn to them! (haha get it?)

The first friendly played was on the 17th of October, where Star United States hosted Pine Island at the Star Stadium in the Starian capital, and won to the score of one to zero. In my opinion, it was a great way to start of the friendlies, even though Pine Island was poorly ranked, or unranked - I’m unsure. Anyway, the Stars then travelled over to The 56 Stadium in San Jose Guayabal, where we encountered our first, and only, defeat of the friendly series, to the score of three to two. The third match took place on October 23, 2014, just two days after the defeat of the Stars, against Cosumar at the Five-Point Stadium. The match ended in a draw. It was a sad match, even though it favored both teams in one way or another - but still, a goalless match!

October Friendlies
Road to the World Cup
10.17.14 - Star United States 1 : 0 Pine Island
10.21.14 - San Jose Guayabal 3 : 2 Star United States
10.23.14 - Star United States 0 : 0 Cosumar
10.26.14 - United Eastedge 4 : 4 Star United States
10.29.14 - Darvale 1 : 3 Star United States
10.30.14 - Star United States 2 : 2 New North Aqmuland

United Eastedge hosted Star United States on the 26th of the respective month, where they also experienced a draw. This time, however, there were eight goals in total, four favoring SUS and four favoring the hosts. On the 29th, Star United States triumphed over Darvale to the score of one to three. Amazing game to watch I have to add on. Both teams did amazingly great! The last match of the friendly series was faced at the Estadio Lado del Oceano, a huge technological innovation for Star United States. New North Aqmuland faced Star United States to get the result of two to two. It’s rather queer that SUS and NNA have always gotten a draw when they face each other, apologies if I am incorrect but, seriously though.

Opener Trophy I

The Opener Trophy was rather disappointing for the Starians. In the Opener Trophy, Star United States was played in Group B, along with Super-Llamaland, Polaaskan, and Racao. Being the second seed of the group, it was expected that the Starians would progress to the first place, with luck over higher-ranked Super-Llamaland. The results were surprising. Very surprising. During the first match day, Star United States tied with Polaaskan, to the score of one to one. The Stars failed to beat the lower-ranked teams. They lost to Racao to the score of two to three. However, unexpectedly, Star United States won over Super-Llamaland, to the score of two to three. Last time these two meet, which was January 11, 2014, Super-Llamaland won over Star United States at the Star Stadium in the Starian capital. It switched the history a bit.
Star United States, despite only winning one out of three matches progressed to the third place match, where the Stars would face Jeckland, a lower-ranked team, twice. A win was totally expected, however, the cards turned when Jeckland played as home and won to four to two. In the second match, Star United States won to the score of one to zero but, Jeckland took third place to the agg. score of three to four. Four place? Honorable mention…?

World Cup 70 Qualifiers

They are back! Star United States has been placed in Group 3, out of 19, I believe.

Group 3

Robsonien (UR)
Valanora (13)
The Fallenmark Islands (191)
Star United States (81)
Timbermunich (127)
Carialus (60)
Kingston-Atlantis (319)
Bears Armed (41)
Joshulia (281)

Star United States is the fourth highest ranked team, so high possibilities might be expected as we face off five weaker teams. Star United States will be facing these teams from today (November 20) up to December 9. Each team will be played twice.

All of the teams are something foreign to the Stars, expect Carialus. During the World Cup 68 Qualifiers, Star United States won over Carialus to the score of two to three, and tied the second time around to the score four to four. So, the record is, for Star United States: 1 win, 1 draw, 0 losses against Carialus.

It’s an interesting mix. A very one. Valanora, and Bears Armed are probably the favorites to pass the qualifier stage, however, Carialus and Star United States also have ranked under a hundred, Despite the rank difference, any team is capable of causing major damage if they put themselves to the challenge.

Predictions? I’m not giving any but, Star United States might have a chance - you never know what can happen - these are World Cup Qualifiers.

World Cup 70 Qualifiers - Matches

World Cup 70
Qualifying Stage Matches

MATCHES
11.20 - Star United States v. Kingston-Atlantis @ Star Stadium, City of Star. Star United States
11.21 - Bears Armed v. Star United States @ TBA
11.22 - Star United States v. Joshulia @ Estadio Lado del Oceano, SeaShore City, Star United States
11.23 - Robsonien v. Star United States @ TBA
11.24 - Star United States v. Valanora @ Five-Point Stadium, Lake Star, Star United States
11.25 - The Fallenmark Islands v. Star United States @ TBA
11.26 - BYE
11.27 - Star United States v. Timbermunich @ Sunrise Stadium, Woodbed City,  Star United States 
11.28 - Carialus v. Star United States @ TBA 
11.29 & 11.30 - BREAK
12.01 - Kingston-Atlantis v. Star United States @ TBA 
12.02 - Star United States v. Bears Arms @ Golden Stadium,  Golden City,  Star United States 
12.03 - Joshulia v. Star United States @ TBA 
12.04 - Star United States v. Robsonien @ Star Stadium, City of Star,  Star United States 
12.05 - Valanora v. Star United States @ TBA 
12.06 - Star United States v. The Fallenmark Islands @ Five-Point Stadium,  Lake Star, Star United States 
12.07 - BYE
12.08 - Timbermunich v. Star United States @ TBA 
12.09 - Star United States v. Carialus @ Estadio Lado del Oceano, SeaShore City, Star United States

by **Estenia** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 1:43 pm

Military Camp, a future Estenia, 40 years after this world cup
19 September 2054, 19 celsius

In a military camp, on a much, much bigger Estenia, consisting of all the neighbouring nations, plus having the strongest military on Atlas, having beaten Kaifong and the SACTO. Estenia is the most advanced nation on Atlas, having large portion of colonies, having started colonizing space, with nuclear powered missiles, Mars has also the first humans tested on its harsh earth-like climate. Leader that time of period is the successor of Constantin II, Filipp V.

By the time he started leading the nation, back on 2039, he has made Estenia a more preposterous nation, with the helps of the achivements of the grandad and father and captured Valaran in no time, Stasnov a large time of period ally, was now a vassal of Estenia. Estenia is just keeping advancing and in the war against remaining Cydonian, United Motherland and Capitalist powers, they thrived in the following battle.

In the mountain cliffs of Cydonia, the remianing 100.000 forces were going to battle against the cyborgs, nuclear powered tanks, men in the newst battle uniform and the newest weapons, which throw plasma and kill you instantly. Leader of the operation is Andreu Laverovski, in a battle unform, which was prettu much heavy, carring a plasma thrower and 2 machine pistols which threw a non well-tested laser to you.

In the battle now, 1.000.000 Estenian Special Forces covered in the bushes until they saw enemy forces approach, quickly, the newly arrived super nova laser artillery started throwing laser and plasma to kill the forces, that epic battle had just begun, quickly Andre taken the plasma gun and started shooting, he approached a soldier called Andrei and told him

"QUICK, WITH THE PLASMA GRENADE, ANDREI."

"YES SIR." and he threw the plasma grenade killing a couple of them, then him and Andreu quickly hided in that bushes behind them and threw another grenade ending on a large amount of Uranium explosives and the place exploeded, which kept the battle going. Then a woman called Ekaterina, beautiful, but vicious when it comes to war, cstanded in the middle, made some Cydonians fall in love with her and then she killed them with the a plasma thrower pistol, she quickly went to Andreu and Andrei and said

"Hello, I killed the last 2 of the 1st front line, should we keep fighting?"

Andreu sadly amde that answer "Yes, we do have to fight."

and the story somehow continues, stay tuned to PMT Channel...

by **Carialus** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 3:59 pm

Carialus Bugle

Staff Change Leads to Roster Upheaval

Carialus had finally done it, they sacked regularly Carialus Comrades' head coach, Bill Bet. Ever since the 53rd Baptism of Fire, Bet has lead the Comrades, through thick and thin, victory and defeat. Under Bet, Carialus went 42-13-32 in international play over 87 matches. Well than, with a semi-good record, why would Bet get sacked? More or less, it wasn't the lack of good coaching skill, but for association wanting more out of team than a third place finish. Considering Carialus' rank, that is to be expected, but in retrospect, Carialus could have done much, much more. Take World Cup 68 for example. Everyone's going crazy over the playoffs system and Carialus is in the thick of the hunt. That cup, third place in the group would be thrown in to a hectic playoff system that was confusing to many and rewarding to few. That year, Carialus finished fourth, although notably had more points than those Chiatan dogs. The Comrades were one place away from having a shot at qualification. Actually, two goals away. They were two point differentials away from getting into the playoff rounds. Above, The Inevitable Syndicate was sitting pretty with 26 pts. and +12 GD, leaving Carialus to sneer with 26 pts. and +10 GD. In fact, Carialus had a huge advantage in points for. To make it even worse, Chiata had the Head-to-Head advantage too. In both games Carialus won with scores of 1-0 and 2-0. If the recent movement of putting Head-to-Head over goal difference had started a little earlier, we might be singing a very different tune. Carialus was left to bicker and lick their wounds until next cycle.

The woes continued right on into World Cup 69. As those Chiatan dogs soared to new heights with undoubtedly many, many bribes, the Comrades sank deeper into dismay. This time, Carialus finished in third, but also this time the playoff rounds cutoff at second. Once again, Carialus was tied for points, this time with The Royal Barangay, the team largly blamed for Carialus falling short in '68 because of a goal difference killing 4-1 loss. Once again, the other team had the upper hand in goal difference, with four goals to spare. There was Carialus again, inches short but miles away. Fortunately enough, the Comrades' stellar play caught the attention of the World Cup Committee, perhaps because of the 1-0 road win against Blouman Empire, and was invited to the 61st Cup of Harmony. New group, new results? Nope. Carialus came in third. THIRD OF ALL PLACES. Just one place short, yet again. By this time, the fans had had it, they began calling for Bet's removal. However, the association gave him one more chance and sent the Comrades to participate in the CE XI for the first time. In short, they sucked. Carialus only won a single match in the group stage and was sent packing shortly afterward. No need for more details. By this time, the fans were calling for Bet's head on a platter, hopefully figuratively. The association finally decided to sack Bill Bet.

After extensive searching, Carialus found a coach of their own blood and settled for Jordon Schlasteur. Immediately, the usual roster was reviewed and countless players were cast out. Daniel Fuller: gone. Miroslav Kovalcik: out. And even dear old Tayyib Kassis was kicked to the curb under new management. Many, many more players were dropped, but the ones mentioned were undoubtedly more memorable. The positions were also scrambled up. Instead of having the beautifully simple positions of "Forward" and "Midfielder," there is names like "Left Wing", "Striker", and "Center Back." Lastly, the team size was increased from 21 to 23 with some more substitutes added. We have yet to see if these changes will work. If they do, we will praise Schlasteur for his brilliance. If they don't, we might need another head platter. Figuratively. Of course...

by **Kernansquillec** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 4:46 pm

INDIGNU AIMING FOR A FIRST WORLD CUP SINCE 57

Can Indignu end 53 years of waiting?
It's been 53 years and 13 editions of the World Cup since Kernansquillec last made it past the qualifying stages to make the group stages. If they are to make it this time round they'll have to do it without the woman who led the Green and Whites back to the international stage, Rachael Sandheart. The 44 year old was relieved of her duties as manager of the international squad a little under a year ago just after reaching the last sixteen of the Copa Rushmori. While it was the Kers' joint-best finish, the poor result of qualifying for World Cup 69 had put an expiry date on Sandheart's reign. It's not all bad news for her however, she's now got a fabulous opportunity to rebuild a Kernansquillec City Athletic team that were dismally poor last season.

The woman filling Sandheart's boots will be Gabby Indignu, a 49 year old who was brought up near Louargat. Having had a number of experiences within clubs during the rebirth of Kernansquillecan football she's recently been more involved in youth development, namely within the Stade Rennais. The step up to international management will be a tough one however. Many have cracked under the spotlight and few are thrown right into a World Cup qualifying campaign without having had a professional managerial job. But the KERFA's scouting system singled Indignu as the prime candidate for one of the biggest jobs in Kernansquillecan football, so hopefully she should be kind of good at the very least.

Talking to the press following the World Cup qualifying draw Indignu commented on her side's odds for this year: "The team is shaping up nicely and the newer players are gelling well. (...) The draw is tough but these draws are always tough, especially for teams like us who are still building up. But it's always great to get to face the top sides such as the Islandstates and we're planning on taking some points off of them. (...) We could qualify and we'll be aiming to qualify. When the team plays well we're a match for anyone. But the group is going to be very tough and we'll need to work very hard to reach a point where qualifying becomes a tangible goal. (...) I'm looking forward to getting underway with the national team. It's a huge pride to have been appointed and while a lot of pressure comes with the job I've been enjoying myself preparing for our first match."

Polar Islandstates clashes highlight of group six draw
Group six is promising to be an interesting affair with a number of teams expected to do well. Copa Rushmori Champions Polar Islandstates are by far the favorites to win the group and are expected to do so by quite a margin. Second place is up for grabs however. Chiata are the second seeds in the group, ranked 25th overall, and are thus favorites to claim that second spot. But 55th ranked Kandorith will have something to say about that, as well may Kernansquillec (95th) and maybe even Mangolana (124th). Absurdly Polite Gentlemen (155th), Gregory Llama Land (258th), Beauce (319th) and Friday Freshman (UR) aren't however expected to be up to much.

For the Kers' there are a number of tasty ties to look forward to. An opening day clash, at home, against the team who beat them in the playoffs for World Cup 68 will be one not-to-miss. The final game of the campaign will also be at home and it'll be against the unranked team of the group, Friday Freshman. One downside to the schedule is that there is always an alternation between home and away games so they won't be any consecutive games at the National Stadium this year. The draw also sees the Kers take on the harder teams early on, with Kandorith up first, followed soon after by Mangolana, Polar Islandstates and Chiata. But the last three games against sub-250 ranked teams will hopefully bring home some points, boosting the total.

New faces everywhere!
The change in management has led the way for a number of changes within the squad. No less than six of the eighteen player squad have yet to make their senior international debut. St Marie's 22 year old center-back Gabrielle Andrewson will certainly be making her tonight when the Kers kick of their campaign against Kandorith. Rennes have a total of six of their players in the squad this time round, including three newbies: former under-21 defender Grégroire Seresimo, versatile midfielder Cindra Ó Maolmhuaidh and tallies' woman Barbara Keys. Guingamp's goalkeeper Liselotte D'Aramitz, who is also rumored to be a target for Super-Llamaland's F.C. Rogers, has also been called up for the first time. The paysans also have a total of six of their players in the squad, including the Kers' captain Adélaïde Noupen. New Southampton's 25 year old winger Caren Findlay is the sixth and final uncapped players in the squad for WCQ70.

by **Britonisea** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 4:53 pm

-Britonish News Flash!

"Hello. I am Luke and I am giving you a news flash based on The World Cup. All matches that are in Britonisea will be held in either Luton's Sport City (In Sportsy Football Stadium. Cap 42, 000) or Doportedas, our capital City. Deportedas' stadium is The Doportedas Olympic Stadium which is home to The Britonish Olympic Organisation and this stadium has hosted an Opening Ceremony (which lasted 4 hours), it has hosted varies of Athletic Events and Football Events during The UCR Olympic Games and it has hosted one of the two NS Athletics Championships. Aside from that, Britonisea has received "Death" from Gregoryisgodistan's Lord Almighty. Only the other day the gave us some points in WorldVision. He is a very weird man. Riots have died down in Britonisea, which mean these Football matches can happen. We are looking forward to this World Cup and he hope to cause chaos in 70. Thanks!!"

by **Sandwich Territories** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 5:06 pm

OOC: As usual, everything here (besides this) is IC, and while I figure that anyone I may or may not throw some IC banter at knows that is is indeed IC, I'd rather make sure that everyone knows that nothing I say here, unless specifically noted as OOC, is OOC.

Welcome to primetime.

The Sandwichians were sitting quietly in their dressing room at the Parc na Saiorse. It was that time again where club would be put aside for country, and a country divided would be united as one once again. The rain had made practice difficult, but the last training session before the 70th World Cup gave Laurance Blaise all he needed to make his final decisions for the first qualifying match of the tournament. The tension level was high in the room as the staff began to give their final say before their match on Saturday.

"Alright, lads. I know you all must be nervous, but don't be. I've decided to stick with this same roster as before from the last World Cup."

There were sighs of relief all around the room, but one could not help but notice the obvious worry on Mr. Blaise's face.

"Now look, I know what we are all thinking. We haven't been highly respected in the footballing world at any point, to be honest. But you and I know exactly what we can do. If you ask me, I think the fact that we are ranked 58th in the world is a bit of a snub. This is a group that since the 63rd World Cup, has been playing with talent and grace."

The squad showed clear approval to his words, but he was not finished.

"With that, however, I must say that we have always had, and always will have, for that matter, room for improvement. For example, this nation has never made it to the knockout rounds. We have come ever-so-close before, but we just haven't been able to get over that bar. I expect high class football from all of you, and I am looking to make a run to finally make it past qualifiers and finally stamping our passports to square off against the best of the best. We've made it to the tiebreakers before, so I know we have the experience."

The players gave vocal support for Mr. Blaise. Laurance was always good at dragging on a speech while keeping his players involved.

"The problem is, lads, is that I don't know how far we can get with this balance. I said we had experience, but this experience is rather old experience. This is a lineup with some youth and prime-aged players, but I feel as though I've put a lot of veterans through to the qualifying roster. I don't want to regret my decision, but I will have no problems changing it up if some of us can't keep up anymore. I liked what I saw in practice, but we didn't get enough true competition in friendlies to get a good estimate on how this starting squad that I've picked for tomorrow is going to perform."

The manager paused for a second to gauge the reaction of his players and staff. He could tell that his words hit a few of the players like a wave of reality on a beach.

"Now, you know me lads, I will not keep someone off the pitch due to anything but their current ability to perform at a required level of skill. Injuries will occur, and players will not be able to perform for whatever reason that might be. But if anyone can't play at that level I need them to, then I can't let you go out there and not be able to give it your all. I fear that for some of us much older blokes, this might be an issue. I need these players to be honest with me as much as possible when it comes to match fitness, along with everyone else. I trust that these veterans and team leaders will understand what I am saying."

Again, there was only silence for a few seconds. Some players, most notably Seung Riese, began to nod.

"Of course, if you can play, then you will get your chance. I want to remind everyone here right now that if you ever feel the need to talk things over with me or anyone else on the staff here, whether or not it's me, Andrej, Anton, Wenzel, the team doctors, the training coaches, etc., that you make yourself heard. It's important that we deal with issues as a team....as a family."

Some players began to vocally approve of this section of his speech as well. The squad began to stand up and come together in a massive circle.

"For some of us, this will be our last time out representing this great nation. I want everyone here to enjoy themselves, and try to push this national squad as far along as we can. We've done some winning before, and against much stronger opponents, so lets do it again lads!"

Diarmuid Capello, the youngest person on the squad (the only person selected for the 70th World Cup under 25 years old besides Sargeant for that matter) stood up and chanted, "This is our time now fellas! Lets go out there and make things happen!"

The team, clearly pleased with the youngster's positive attitude, started to perform their pre-match "ritual", per se. The meeting ended on such a positive note, that Mr. Blaise even found himself smiling on the drive home; something he is known to rarely do while he is in "the zone".

"Boy, does this squad really have some spirit...", Laurance thought to himself, as he pulled out of the parking lot. "I'm feeling good about this lot." The Mercedes preceded to fade into the darkness of the cold, rainy night of Reimsburgh.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Hey, Adam, do you mind if I have a word with you for a moment?"

"No problem, Wenzel, what can I do for you?"

Mr. Pierce had managed to catch up with Adam Sergeant right outside of the complex.

"I have to tell you, I was doing some internet scouting of what some other people had to say about us. Reporters, analysts, and such."

"I didn't think you were into reading that stuff. It can get into your head and mess with anyone very easily."

"That is true, and I remained weary of such, but I did notice one thing that I am going to have to agree with."

Adam did not like, nor appreciate the sound of that.

"What would that be..."

"Frankly, our defensive backs are old...very old. I wouldn't be one bit surprised if they averaged out to be one of the oldest group of backs in the entire World Cup qualifiers. Our starters are no doubt one of the oldest groups of starting 'd-men' out there. I doubt any of them will be able to play very aggressively, including Capello. He is too young and too in-experienced, on the flip side. I need you in particular, as the youngest and most physical man in the midfield to play very aggressively for the first match. I've talked about this with Lama and Blaise so you can run it over with them as well."

Adam paused for a moment, and then stated, "I agree, to be honest. I am a very aggressive player anyways, as you know, so I'll be more than happy to make up for that edge, while allowing the older guys to lead and play with grace."

"Excellent. I'll let the other two know right away. Do you mind if I ask Wegener and Mateus to join in?"

"Absolutely not. They are quality players who can help me out with that. Not so sure about Slezak..."

The two chuckled. Brady Slezak was 39, so any chance of him being asked to play more aggressively was out of the question.

"Don't get me wrong, Wenzel, he's a top quality player and leader, but, he IS an old man out there."

"No worries, the staff completely agrees as well. We might have to give Varley more time, but we'll see. I think that Slezak might be done after this but you never know."

"I hope not, he is quite the leader around here. Varley is very good though, and would be able to help us solidify that aggression in the midfield to the right of the pitch."

"Exactly. Although, as of now, Slezak has the ability to stick with his man and make the cross that is needed that we would like to see at this time. We'll give both men their earned time."

"Absolutely. Hey, thanks again Coach."

"No problem. Have a good night."

The Sandwichians were ready to go for Saturday, and Wenzel Pierce was hoping that when the time came, those who doubted these players would be humbled a little bit. But, as he himself stated:

Only time would tell.

by **Blouman Empire** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 5:07 pm

THE EMPIRE TIMES

Out with the New, In with the Old

After a disastrous campaign at the AOCAF campaign, newly appointed manager Logan October has brought back into the squad four players that had been dumped by caretaker manager Matt Waterhouse. Announcing his squad last night October emphasised the need to have a mixture of experience and youth within the squad. In an emphatic speech, October took a swing at his predecessor’s renewal plan “It is always important to have the best players that can play at an international level, building on our past successes are the key not starting again”. Brought back into the squad after being dumped just before the AOCAF are Percy Baser, Kane Ancap, Jakob Powell and Leo Wolk. Baser expressed his pleasure at his reinclusion “I happy to be a part of the Blouman Eagles once again, I feel I have a lot more to offer the squad and am ready to take our team to another World Cup”. New players into the squad include Stanley James, James Bailey, Josua Amerdio and 17 year old striker Joseph Helton-Wains, while Helton-Wains is the youngest person on the squad he has already amazed at the club level since his debut with Braxon City netting 5 goals in 9 games. While he is not expected to be a regular starter, October obviously has plans to have him as a key man in the next generation of players.

With 16 games to play in this qualification series October and his team will have a lot of pressure riding on them to qualify for the Empire’s 7th consecutive World Cup. The Eagles have struggled to qualify in recent World Cups and have managed to secure themselves a berth during playoffs, something Blouman Captain Hamish Alpin hopes to avoid this time around “It hurts us and puts too much pressure on the team, this year we will be aiming to win outright.”. The Eagles have been drawn as the top seed in Group 17 and while they are the highest ranked nation the teams of Apox and Brenecia will be teams . While the Eagles should have no issue seeing off the lower ranked teams including Alastonia and Fellow Citizens who will be participating in their first international tournament they will need to guard against complacency to ensure they like others will secure the necessary three points. Apox who were hosts of the last World Cup and made their debut in the 64th edition of the cup are currently hot favourites to win the group, and will be the team to beat, something specially mentioned by October “Apox will be our most difficult match our first match against them in matchday three will determine if we are leaders of chasers”. The Eagles will also be facing off against French Louisana, Daritii, Queer Poco and Quakmybush. The Eagles first game will be at Daritii, Dartii recently made the international debut at the latest BoF and making the Round of Sixteen before losing in extra time to Pine Island. The Eagles will be aiming to start their qualifiers off with a bang as they seek to assert their dominance with a decisive victory over their less experienced opponents.

World Cup 70 - RP Thread

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