Copa Rushmori XXX- Everything Thread (FINAL Posted!)

by **Cassadaigua** » Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:25 pm

Welcome to CaXXXadaigua for the 30th Copa Rushmori!

All of us at the Cassadagan Association for Soccer Excellence are honored to have been chosen to be your host. We look forward to seeing the greatest nations of the region on our home soil, as they go up against eager upstarts looking to make assert themselves as well. This should be a great tournament.

Pot 1: Valladares (1), Eura (2), Pasarga (3), Nephara (4), Eastfield Lodge (5), Ceni (6)
Pot 2: Pridnestrovia (7), Taeshan (8), Savojarna (10), Darmen (11), Olastor (12), Sargossa (13)
Pot 3: Cassadaigua (15), Yuezhou (16), Sarrbia (18), Mytanar Region (24), Thibaea (31), East Neutralia (UR)
Pot 4: Qusmo (UR), Rou Scotan (UR), Mapletish (UR), Kalosia (UR), Crystalline Caverns (UR), St Trinians (UR)

Group 1: (First Pairing Games each MD in South Granby) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Victoriaville )
Valladares (1)
Savojarna (10)
East Neutralia (UR)
Qusmo (UR)

Group 2: (First Pairing Games each MD in Winchester) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Northbury)
Pasarga (3)
Taeshan (8)
Sarrbia (18)
Mapletish (UR)

Group 3: (First Pairing Games each MD at Brattleboro Stadium) (Second Pairing Games each MD at Brattleboro Tech)
Ceni (6)
Olastor (12)
Yuezhou (16)
St Trinians (UR)

Group 4: (All games involving Cassadaigua at Concord Heights Stadium, other pairing at University of Concord Heights)
Eura (2)
Darmen (11)
Cassadaigua (15)
Crystalline Caverns (UR)

Group 5: (First Pairing Games each MD in Rutland) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Starksville )
Nephara (4)
Sargossa (13)
Thibaea (31)
Rou Scotan (UR)

Group 6: (First Pairing Games each MD in Grande Mountain) (Second Pairing Games each MD in New Lakeland)
Eastfield Lodge (5)
Pridnestrovia (7)
Mytanar Region (24)
Kalosia (UR)

Schedule:
July 11: Group Draw
July 13: MD1- 1 v 4, 2 v 3
July 15: MD2- 4 v 3, 1 v 2
July 17: MD3- 2 v 4, 3 v 1
July 19: R16
July 21: Quarterfinals
July 23: Semifinals
July 24: 3rd Place Game
July 25: Championship

Cutoff times are 8pm-9pm EDT.
Second post of thread contains info about the cities and stadiums.

This is the everything thread, so if you have done one of these before, you know what you need to do now, so go ahead and post that roster and being roleplaying!

If you have never done one of these before, then first of all, welcome! What you want to do first, is create a roster. Note that all games are played in Cassadaigua for this tournament.

Within that roster, include a RP Permissions box that looks like this. If your opponent roleplays first, and chooses to RP via match report, this is telling them what is ok and not okay to do in regards to the report:

If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Y/N
Godmod Scoring Events: Y/N
RP injuries to my players: Y/N
Godmod injuries to my players: Y/N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Y/N
Hand out Red cards to my players: Y/N
Godmod Other Events: Y/N

Also include a style modifier ranging for -5 to +5 depending on how offensive or defensive your prefer your nation to be. -5 is the most defensive, and +5 is the most offensive.

Format: Six Groups of four. Top two teams per group advance as well as the best four third place teams.

You may begin posting rosters and roleplaying at any time!

by **Cassadaigua** » Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:25 pm

COPA RUSHMORI XXX
CASSADAIGUA TRAVEL GUIDE

Are you coming to Cassadaigua to enjoy the Copa Rushmori? Great! Here’s what you will need to know.

1) Where is Cassadaigua? How do I get there?

Cassadaigua is located in the region of Rushmore, and more specifically south-central Rushmore.

The best recommendation to get here is to fly in, although if you are nearby, you may just want to drive or take a train. All Cassadagan cities have a major airport, and the nation has an advanced rail system as well. If you insisted on traveling by sea, there are some easily attainable port cities to make it very convenient, but we suggest flying in.

2) Will I be safe? What is crime like?

Cassadaigua is no more or no less safe then any other nation. Some consider our crime rates to be a little high, but law enforcement and a general security presence will be very apparent and will protect you. Things still get seedy in the Grande Mountain area from time to time, but our security will try their best to keep the men's rights protests to a minimum. Lately, since the Queen has been more pro-active in regards to Men’s rights, such protests have not been occurring.

3) Tell me more about your female-dominated society. Are male tourists safe?

Cassadaigua’s society is different then what is seen throughout most of the world. In our nation, the female is the dominant gender and is superior to the male. This should not be surprising if you have followed our own national sport teams in even the slightest of ways. There are some groups who feel that men are greatly oppressed in our nation, but that is not really the case. If you are a man, and you are visiting Cassadaigua, as long as you are aware of our somewhat different culture, you should not have a tough time fitting in. After all, Cassadagan men that play by the rules here and respect their role can be very successful themselves. As long as you respect our culture, you should be fine while you are here. If you act disrespectful, then don’t be surprised if you are soon put in your place. You are expected to follow all Cassadagan laws, even if it is not a law in your own country,

4) I’ve been to nations that have talking ponies, or banned cars, or taxes on every little thing. Should I expect anything like this?

Cassadagans love horses, but there are no talking ponies here. At least not that we know of. If we have any sentient immigrants from nations like Equestrian States, they keep a very low profile. Cars are very much a way of life, and our taxes aren’t anything out of the ordinary, and if anything are a little lower then average. Cassadaigua is modern, economic powerhouse. There are no unusual factors associated with the country, other then the gender differences.

Socially, Cassadaigua is open to members of all faiths, and we respect your right to worship your respective deity in the way you see fit; or to not worship one at all. Homosexuality is accepted in the country, though we can’t promise that some random drunk in the stands or on the streets won’t make offensive comments.

As far as drinking is concerned, the legal age is 18, though many get away with underage drinking as it is not as aggressively policed as it may be in other lands. However, do not drink and drive. If you are caught, you will have a greater jail sentence then you might be expecting, and if you kill anyone by drunk driving, you will receive the death penalty.

Smoking anywhere in public is banned, but legal in your own home. This applies to both cigarettes and marijuana. All other recreational drugs are banned.

5) Where will the games be? Tell me about the cities, please.

Concord Heights- This is the nation capital, and the city has hosted many international championships before. You’ll find the city in northeast Cassadaigua, and there are plenty of things to do while here. We won’t get into all of them, because if its on your mind, simply put, its in Concord Heights. Within the city, you will find the most traditional Cassadagan citizens; the ones least likely to be listening to MEN (Male Equality Now) or any other of men’s rights messages. The University of Concord Heights is the nation’s most accredited higher learning institution, but if you want to leave Cassadaigua looking better to impress people at home, check out Concord Heights Beauty School for all kind of tips on looking your best, and museums dedicated specifically to the ultimate in vanity.

The Concord Heights Stadium soccer field has been seen a lot of great events take place on it through the years, and many tributes to our glory days, including a monument area for our retired kit numbers, are seen at the stadium. It has a capacity of 83,000.

Also in Concord Heights, the field at the University of Concord Heights will also be used to host games. It has a capacity of 75,000.

Brattleboro- The most rapidly growing city in Cassadaigua recently topped Grande Mountain in terms of population. Brattleboro sits immediately alongside the border between us and Sicoutimont. The technological age is what has caused the rise of this city, thanks in large part to the prestigious Brattleboro Technical Institute. Graduates remained committed to the area, and are since having families of their own. Overall, there is a younger demographic here, age wise, and that coupled with the name of the city has led to others to call its residents “Brats”.

Brattleboro Stadium is the most modern of any of the stadiums that will be hosting the tournament. (Concord Heights Stadium is fine, though just a bit more traditional). It is impeccably maintained, and has a capacity of 79,000. There are plenty of interactive things for fans to do before and after the game.

Additionally in Brattleboro, the field at the Brattleboro Technical Institute will also host games. It has a capacity of 64,000.

Grande Mountain- Another large city, there has been some controversy in Grande Mountain lately. Most of that pertains to the local university, and you should be safe as long as you mind your own business. Those with a long term memory about Grande Mountain, and recent protest that have taken place here can take solace in knowing that has not been an issue in the last couple years. That’s good, as locals are glad they can get back to leading normal lives. Grande Mountain, as a city, sits a high elevation, which is where it gets its name.

The stadium is a traditional 68,000-seat facility. It will offer the basics, and do a very good job with it. This is also very much a college town, so expect more then the normal number of intoxicated Cassadagan fans afterwards. Your fans are welcome to join in.

Rutland- A port city in southeastern Cassadaigua, Rutland sometimes gets lost in the shuffle with the other cities in tournaments like this. It could use a bit of a makeover, but local officials have concentrated efforts on the port itself, and as such the rest of the city could appear ignored. It is true that many are migrating out of Rutland because of this, and it’s possible that it might not appear as a host city much longer.

The stadium has the smallest capacity of any in the tournament, with that being 58,000, and those seats will sell out quickly. For those who just want to focus on soccer, and not have other distractions, this is the place you’ll hope to be. Even though the city is a bit bland, there is plenty of energy in the stands.

Winchester- The anti-Brattleboro in that while Brattleboro is a younger city, demographically, Winchester is a place that a lot of retired people have migrated too, to get away from big city life. In the process, they created a big city themselves, but you’ll notice that this city doesn’t have same kind of pizzazz as others. You’ll find more bingo halls then bars in the city, and residents only agree to allow the city to be used for international events because of the money you’ll bring in to the city. So that they can gamble it away playing bingo.

In contrast to the older demographic that lives here, the stadium is actually quite modern. There will be some interactive activities for fans, but you’ll also see a lot of the older people try to sell old memorabilia around the stadium. Take a look, maybe you will find something interesting!

New Lakeland- If you want to enjoy Cassadaigua and go to a city with the most gender equality, then New Lakeland is the spot for you. The reason is, that this used to be a city in Secristan before Cassadaigua took it over, therefore its origins aren’t the same. As time has gone by, Cassadagan lifestyle has begun to take it over, but there many relics of its history still prevalent on the streets. It’s the most capitalist city in the country, but given that origin, that shouldn’t be a surprise. City has seen a lot of recent sporting success with New Lakeland University winning the NSCAA 9 title, and the New Lakeland Tycoons winning the Club Baseball Classic.

The stadium is state-of-the-art, and at 91,000, it has the largest capacity out of all of the stadiums being used. It will also have the highest ticket prices. You’ll get good value out of it though, as once inside, there is plenty to do, and the most varied assortment of concession areas in the country.

Starksville- A growing city close to Rutland, and has been the place that a lot of migrants from Rutland have ended up going to. It is a port city, as well. Since it is a growing city, it does not have a ton of sporting history associated with it.

The stadium is a basic, no-frills, 65,000 seat stadium. It’s fine and more then adequate, but won’t make a forever lasting impression.

Victoriavile- As the most populous city in Southwestern Cassadaigua, Victoriaville again returns as a host city to give Dagans living in this area some close games to travel too. There’s nothing really wrong with the city, it’s just not as big as the others.

The stadium is very similar to Starksville, and is a basic 61,000-seat stadium. It does have a rather high amount of luxury boxes present.

South Granby- A city in north-central Cassadaigua that will host international competition for the first time. Due to that, expect the seats to be hard to come by as locals will buy them up. However, perhaps you can buy them from them.

The stadium is a modern, 58,000-seat facility. They will be going all out with fan activities because they not only want to give you a good experience, but they want to convince the various sporting agencies in Cassadaigua to use them more frequently.

Northbury- About 100 miles north of Winchester, you’ll find this somewhat sleepy town. It also has an older demographic, but not quite at the level of Winchester. It also hosts international play for the first time.

The stadium used to only hold 40,000, but in recent years, it has had its capacity increased to 66,000. With that, it has been given the honor of being a host stadium for the tournament. Like South Granby, they’ll be going all out to impress.

by **Cassadaigua** » Sat Jul 07, 2018 4:25 pm

TEAM CASSADAIGUA- Copa Rushmori 30

Coach- Brittany Cutler (45) (1st international assignment)

Starters in Green
Subs in Blue
Reserves in Red

Goalkeepers:
#20- Kristen Speller (30)- Starter in WC78-80
#21- Lizzie Perkins (29)- Substitute in WC78-80, Starter CR 29
#31- Kelsey Morgan (24)- Starter in DBC 41 & 42, Sub CR 29, Reserve WC 80

Defenders:
#22- Lupe Enriquez (22)- Starter in DBC 41 & CR 29, Starter & Captain DBC 42, Sub WC 79 & 80
#2- Jessica Curran (29)- Starter in WC78-80
#4- Chelsea Blake (30)- Starter in WC78-80, Starter and Captain in CR 29 (*Team Captain*)
#6- Brooke Sorrentino (23)- Starter in DBC 42
#3- Taylor Young (24)- Substitute in DBC 41 & CR 29, Reserve in WC 80
#24- Diana Foster (22)- Substitute in DBC 41 & CR 29
#27- Ashley Crocker (24)- Starter in DBC 41 & CR 29, Reserve in WC 80
#29- Brooke Sutter (18)- Starter in SWC 6 & DBC 43

Midfielders:
#19- Rachel Brenner (27)- Substitute in WC78, Starter WC 79 & 80
#23- Sierra Mattison (24)- Starter WC 80, DBC 41, & CR 29
#8- Shelby Martin (24)- Starter WC 80, DBC 41, & CR 29
#9- Breanne Rothers (24)- Sub WC 80, Starter DBC 41, & CR 29
#25- Emma McKee (23)- Reserve WC 79 & 80, Starter DBC 41, CR 29
#28- Yolanda Castellano (25)- Sub CR 29, Reserve WC 80
#32- Taylor Southwick (24)- Reserve CR 29
#34- Lauren Hayden (25)- International Debut

Forwards:
#12- Caitlyn Mayer (23)- Starter in DBC 41, 42 & CR 29, Reserve WC 79 & 80
#16- Chelsea Monroe (24)- Starter in DBC 41 & 42, Reserve WC 79 & 80, Sub CR 29
#26- Rachel Stover (23)- Sub DBC 42, Reserve CR 29
#35- Ashley Dahlin (19)- Starter DBC 43
#37- Sarah Huff (29)- Substitute in WC78-80 & CR 29
#71- Rachel Schanke (16) (Granddaughter of Jessica, who #17 is retired for. Hence the #71)- Starter SWC 6, Sub DBC 43

Retired Kit numbers (these numbers are retired in international soccer at all levels)
#1 is retired in honor of Allison Salamida
#5 is retired in honor of Michelle Fuller
#7 is retired in honor of Shannon Myers
#10 is retired in honor of Brittany Lawton
#11 is retired in honor of Courtney Ferguson
#13 is retired in honor of Meaghan Bateman
#14 is retired in honor of Stacie Kerrigan-Fraser
#15 is retired in honor of Erica Lambert
#17 is retired in honor of Jessica Schanke
#18 is retired in honor of Taylor Connolly

RP Permissions:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes but only say they hurt
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes, no more then one more then you give yourself.
Godmod other events: TG idea first. If it fits the theme of my team, I probably will allow it.

Style Mod: +2

by **Nephara** » Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:13 pm

NEPHARA
World Ranking: 9th
Preferred Formation: 4-2-3-1
Secondary Formation: 4-4-2
Style Modifier: 0
Home Stadium: The Farham Arena in Sabrefell is reserved for the biggest games, but Nephara is a large enough country that it spreads its matches across the nation.
Kit Supplier: Ediraf
Nickname: The Cormorants

Typical post-74 Cormorants. It all seemed like it was going perfectly, like they were destined for glory, and then they save their second-worst performance of the cycle for the first knockout match. And then Brenecia wins the World Cup, to top it all off. Brandon's checked every box so far but silverware, and knows that while he's done an exceptional job to stabilise the national team, he really needs something in that trophy cabinet. Might this be it?

Overall Record
373 wins - 70 draws - 103 losses
1185 scored - 653 conceded

Trophies
Baptism of Fire 51
Cup of Harmony 61
World Cup 74
Eagle's Cup 5
5 Campionati Esportiva - 6, 8, 10, 15 and 18
Only the second nation in history to achieve the 'Grand Slam' of WCC titles - represented by three stars on the crest.

Most Caps
172 - Hadrian Belfast
155 - Elaine Ashdown
141 - Tosca Marlowe
137 - Cathy Stokes
136 - Tanith Rainsford
134 - Michael Brandon
129 - Adnan Szalai
126 - Anna Shrike, Malachite Scharner
116 - Dale Brightley, Diandra Ballard, Sasha Christener, Penumbra Amokachi
111 - Calliope Katskalidis
108 - Gerhard Thunder
105 - Dieter Konoval
104 - Rook Cathar
103 - Keith Rowland

Most Goals
65 - Penumbra Amokachi
57 - Gerhard Thunder
55 - Rook Cathar
50 - Elaine Ashdown
48 - Estrella Hawke

Most Clean Sheets
44 - Diandra Ballard (116 caps)
29 - Apostolos Tsattalios (84 caps)
28 - Portia Thrift (78 caps), Kieron Riordan (66 caps)
24 - Reece Coleman (51 caps)

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

* Gosforth takes penalties and right-footed set pieces. Strongbow takes left-footed set pieces.
** I'll have the final say on how long the player will be out, but feel free to make them look severe as you want.
*** One per match.

Tactics

As always, the Cormorants play hard and physical on the defensive and quick, broad and ruthless on the attack, especially loving to absorb pressure and hit on the break. Set pieces are also something of a specialty. They usually press hard and try and wear out the opponent, but are willing to sit back if they need to preserve a lead. The fullbacks are expected to overlap with their wingers and provide much of the team's width. The strikers - mostly, anyway - are all very physical and very capable of finishing, pressing high as the first defenders but also striving to get on the end of chances and to finish what the midfield starts. Nepharim play rough, some might even say dirty - but at least it's always honest, and outright cheating isn't tolerated culturally.

Staff
Manager - Michael Brandon - Age 49
Assistant Manager - Tom Riley (EUR) - Age 55
Michael Brandon - a legendary figure for the Cormorants and Directus as a holding midfielder, Nephara's first ever player to be widely regarded as world-class - has taken his incisive knowledge of the sport and razor-sharp intellect into coaching. He's an uncompromising leader who demands absolute loyalty and high performance from his players, and early signs in his first managerial role are promising. Tom Riley, a noteworthy former player as well, has been brought in as his assistant, and is the first foreign management staff in the Cormorants' history.

Goalkeepers
Core
1 - GK - Apostolos Tsattalios (

Falourr) - Age 31 - 84 caps, 29 clean sheets
A very modern goalkeeper who sweeps behind the defence and has excellent distribution, Tsattalios has truly proven himself in national colours after a bumpy start to his international career. Scapegoated by some for a poor showing against Turori.

12 - GK - Andreas Swoboda (

1860 Azoth) - Age 30 - 6 caps, 4 clean sheets
A capable, reliable goalkeeper. Pretty much good at everything, though not particularly outstanding in any one department. Picked for his ability to sweep behind the defence.

20 - GK - Anthoulis Matraxis (

Creed United) - Age 26 - 5 caps, 2 clean sheets
An athletic, quick-footed goalkeeper, with excellent distribution skills. Matraxis is thoroughly in the modern mould.

Defenders
2 - RB - Leona Rafford (

Crisisbless) - Age 28 - 68 caps, 6 goals
A true larrikin on and off the pitch, with a decidedly combative streak. Lightning-quick running down the right, not letting her diminutive stature stop her. Has taken a couple more injuries of late, and might just be starting to slow a bit.

3 - LB - Sieglinde Lohengrin (

Crisisbless, vc) - Age 30 - 89 caps, 5 goals
Tall, elegant and almost mournful in bearing, Lohengrin's a composed, complete fullback with a world-class crossing ability. More than does her shift defensively, too. This could be her last tournament.

5 - CB - Dieter Konoval (

KT Moreazerua) - Age 31 - 105 caps, 3 goals
A bruiser at his core, Konoval's most at home bullying small, weak forwards. Not as tall as some might expect, but a deceptively quick sprinter.

6 - CB - Trajan Bruyne (

Mallox) - Age 29 - 22 caps
A fiery, unreliable defender in his youth, Bruyne's noticeably matured of late to become hard as rock and reliable as anything. Decent with the ball at his feet, too.

18 - RB - Eloise Kielseng (

1860 Azoth) - Age 23 - Uncapped
Something of a surprise in the squad to some, but Kielseng's been a quiet success story early in her career, making a mark in Ceni after leaving Athletic. Defends well, attacks well, fast, gets the basics right.

19 - LB - Lux Vicelich (

Sabrefell Moths) - Age 26 - 30 caps, 1 goal
Another quick, spiky fullback, with a distinctly dirty streak. A street kid from the Moths with a rough past, but a very bright future. Loves to go forward and can drop a cross on anything.

22 - CB - Dragora Steelhenge (

Cornellians) - Age 26 - 16 caps
A tall, assured centre-half who belies her age with a regal bearing and a real bite in the tackle. Mentally resolute, and has worked hard on her ability to recover from errors.

Midfielders
4 - HM - Monica Rowland (

Bastion) - Age 25 - 33 caps
A fiercely ambitious midfielder with a razor-sharp intelligence, Rowland is set for great things and knows it. A genuinely assured presence on the ball, Rowland makes everything around her calmer right up until she sends a ferocious bullet pass downfield.

7 - RAM - Ishtar Fanaiyan (

Eastweald) - Age 25 - 32 caps, 8 goals
Iskandrian by birth, Fanaiyan's endured terrible hardships and will take nothing for granted as a professional. Lightning-quick, a bastion of athleticism.

8 - CM - Rusalka Klein (

Crawford City FC) - Age 26 - 33 caps, 8 goals
A lanky, elegant player who strides through the midfield with a charming confidence. Very easy to watch in possession, diligent at winning it back, but still just a little rough around the edges.

11 - LAM - Rowena Strongbow (

Directus) - Age 25 - 63 caps, 20 goals
A powerful, old-school Nepharim winger who burst onto the scene a while back and has impressed everyone for club and country. Surely one of the world's best players, having never taken a step back in her career.

13 - RAM - Monako Saroszi (

Ulsa) - Age 22 - 3 caps, 1 goal
A fearless, driving winger, unafraid to get their hands dirty to get back the ball. They exude a quiet confidence that manifests itself on the pitch as flashy, decisive moves, and they're unafraid to take on a shot themselves. Still somewhat raw.

14 - CAM - Chimera Moxham (

Port Patrick United) - Age 21 - 4 caps, 1 goals
Aren't playmakers meant to be classy? Moxham isn't. She's arrogant, but not in an elegant way, she just always believes she knows the right thing to do, on and off the pitch. Perhaps annoyingly, she's usually right. Decision-making can be a bit flaky, but she has the pace, the eye for goal and even the defensive workrate to make up for it.

15 - CM - Circe Rosenthal (

Marionville) - Age 25 - 17 caps, 4 goals
A sturdy, classy midfielder who seizes the initiative at any given chance. Always getting the ball moving forward, and unafraid to get stuck into challenges on the defensive end.

16 - LAM - Regatta Aspenwood (

Handon United) - Age 29 - 20 caps, 6 goals
Tall, elegant and athletic, Aspenwood's never actually played in the Premiership, leaving for Schottia after powering Southfell to promotion. Panoramic vision, a vicious shot, a feather-like first touch and a gift for improvisation.

21 - CAM - Konrad Gosforth (

Mâ Âlâmëómë, c) - Age 31 - 97 caps, 28 goals
A clinical, deft playmaker, Gosforth combines physical power and Nepharim graft with a keen intelligence, an eye for goal and, most importantly of all, a flawless sense of timing. Has lead by example ever since Brandon took the national team job.

23 - HM - Servet Misidjan (

AFC Treason) - Age 27 - 44 caps, 2 goals
An elegant, austere and hard-running player with wonderful technique and intelligence on the ball. Sometimes fades out of games, and isn't perhaps as physical as most Nepharim, but it's made up for by sheer class. In theory.

Forwards
9 - ST - Estrella Hawke (

Sabrefell Athletic) - Age 27 - 83 caps, 48 goals
Statuesque and athletic, Hawke's very strong, very quick and ruthless with the ball at her feet. Her first touch can be her downfall, and she's at her most comfortable charging forward at full pelt. As a pure striker's striker, she's world-class.

10 - ST - Heron Kendall (

Port Sebastian) - Age 29 - 13 caps, 8 goals
A journeywoman mercenary who's played in four different nations over the past four years. Tall, confident and powerful, Kendall's a goalscorer first and foremost. Has something of a 'lucky charm' reputation.

17 - ST - Erika Wolff (

North Sabrefell) - Age 25 - Uncapped
A bolter into the squad, Wolff has it all in theory. Tall, strong, fast and ruthless in front of goal, with a determined personality. She will stop at nothing to get the goddamn ball in the goddamn net. Perhaps lacks a little top-class experience, and has only played one Premiership season.

ABBREVIATED ROSTER
Goalkeepers: 1 - Apostolos Tsattalios (Falourr, EUR), 12 - Andreas Swoboda (1860 Azoth, CEN), 20 - Anthoulis Matraxis (Creed United)
Defenders: 2 - Leona Rafford (Crisisbless), 3 - Sieglinde Lohengrin (Crisisbless), 5 - Dieter Konoval (KT Moreazerua, AUD), 6 - Trajan Bruyne (Mallox, COS), 18 - Eloise Kielseng (Sabrefell Athletic), 19 - Lux Vicelich (Sabrefell Moths), 22 - Ryan Theuer (Falourr, EUR),
Midfielders: 4 - Monica Rowland (Bastion, EUR), 7 - Ishtar Fanaiyan (Eastweald, COS),8 - Rusalka Klein (Crawford City FC, COS), 11 - Rowena Strongbow (Directus, EUR), 13 - Monako Saroszi (Ulsa, EUR), 14 - Chimera Moxham (Port Patrick United, SCT), 15 - Circe Rosenthal (Marionville, SCT), 16 - Regatta Aspenwood (Handon United, SCT), 21 - Konrad Gosforth (Mâ Âlâmëómë, FFD, c), 23 - Servet Misidjan (AFC Treason)
Forwards: 9 - Estrella Hawke (Sabrefell Athletic), 10 - Heron Kendall (Port Sebastian, SCT), 17 - Dragan Stavanger (North Sabrefell)

by **Taeshan** » Sat Jul 07, 2018 8:16 pm

Nation Name:Taeshan
Demonym: Taeshanis, Taeshites, Taes
Team Nickname: Purple Knights
Modifier: -5
Captain: Miles Snavely
Vice-Captain: Janson Jewsbery

Jerseys

MANAGERIAL STAFF
Manager: Xander McDrew

Jacob	Jingleheimer-Smitt	25	Blacklake Blues	TAE	GK	1
Alex	Turniquette	27	X Island Marauders	TAE	LB	2
Jamie	Fasnacht	24	Mt Ceabring Thunder	TAE	CB	3
Edison 	Trueblood	24	Mt Ceabring Thunder	TAE	CB	4
Seth	Green	23	Knightspurs	TAE	RB	5
Randall	Abl Bakr	23	Tintown Terrapins	TAE	CDM	6
Geoffrey	Klingenberg	22	Knightspurs	TAE	RM	7
Miles	Snavely	32	Laketown Rangers	TAE	LS	8
Janson	Jewsbury	28	Bayern-Algaer	TAE	LM	9
Alson	Figeuroa	20	Fadron Flight	TAE	CAM	10
Aleksandr	Denisov	26	Oldhem Knights	APX	RS	11
Estaban	Foh	20	X Island Marauders	TAE	GK	12
Orlando	Jiminez	22	Fadron Flight	TAE	ST	13
Johnson	Pern	24	Atlantea Hurricanes	TAE	FB	14
Kalvin	Talbot	23	Bayern Phoenix	TAE	MF	15
Silian	Cantebury	20	Mierton Manatees	TAE	ST	16
Sahler	Moon	23	Real Atlantea	TAE	MF	17
Coswalt 	Kline	23	Los Riosa Monstas	TAE	MF	18
Orson	Vanderbilt	21	Real Atlantea	TAE	MF	19
Aston	Shelby	23	Los Riosa Monstas	TAE	MF	20
Daigo	Coshan	20	Laketown Rangers	TAE	CB	21
Wallace	Kepler	20	Tintown Terrapins	TAE	MF	22
Nelson	Cartwright	23	Fadron Flight	TAE	CB	23
Aysa	Madison	18	Atlantea Hurricanes	TAE	GK	24

Formation 4-4-2 (Diamond)
--Jingleheimer-Smitt--
--Green--Trueblood--Fasnacht--Turniquette--
--Abl Bakr--
--Klingenberg--Jewsbury--
--Figueroa--
--Denisov--Snavely--

by **Sargossa** » Sun Jul 08, 2018 8:53 am

Copa Rushmori XXX

Sargossa - 'The Corsairs'

Head Coach

Rodrigo Defederico
Former international midfielder he starred in the SuperLiga, before plying his trade in Astograth. A former coach of the Olympic side who led hometown club Dunas Del Sol to the Copa Sargossa final in his first full season in charge. Rescued a stuttering qualification campaign and steered the Corsairs to a third successive World Cup Finals appearance.

Backroom Staff

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

Talent

GK: 1. Sergio Vega (27) – Dínamo Maturín
GK: 13. Carlos Ríos (26) – Sportivo Soluca
GK: 25. Roberto Penedo (20) – Dunas Del Sol

Whereas Sergio Vega may have the edge over all his rivals in terms of distribution with both hands and feet new coach Rodrigo Defederico was quick to install Carlos Ríos as his number one between the sticks. Ríos’ ability as a ‘sweeper keeper’ neatly gels with Defederico’s attacking style and high pressing game. Talented Dunas Del Sol stopper Penedo, given his league debut by Defederico, gets a taste of an international tournament as third choice.

DR: 2. Alonzo Zevallos (23) – Ciudad Soluca
DRC: 5. José Guerrero (26) – Ciudad Soluca
DC: 6. Alex González (24) – El Nacional
DL: 3. Alex Vallejos (27) – Alianza Jucaro
DLC: 12. Fabián Parra (23) – Dínamo Maturín
DRC: 14. Luís Camargo (22) – Dunas Del Sol
DL: 19. Germán Montero (27) – Dínamo Maturín
DC: 21: Sebastián Vegas (22) – Ciudad Soluca

Seemingly you don’t get a look in as a SuperLiga centreback unless you happen to clear six foot so expect an imposing wall of darker blue arrayed ahead of the keeper. Alex González is a classy ball playing central defender in the traditional Gozan mould and is expected to sit at the centre of the back three. Fabián Parra has been angling for a starting spot, while the coach may use the tournament to blood another of his former Dunas charges, Luíz Camargo. Montero and Zevallos provide first choice options if wing backs are deployed or if the coach reverts to a back four. Although Zevallos attacking thrust may see him used on the right of midfield. The giant Sebastián Vegas can be thrown upfront when things get desperate.

MC: 4. Sergio Espina (25) – Alianza Jucaro
AMR: 7. Diego Puebla (23) – El Nacional
MC: 8. Alejandro Vecino (32) – Dínamo Maturín
AML: 11. Carlos Álvarez (26) – Porto Alegro Azul
AMRC: 15. Antonio Amaro (27) – Alianza Jucaro
MC: 16. Rafael Bustamanté (21) – El Nacional
DMC: 18. Luís Vazquez (24) – Sportivo Cordova
DMC: 22. Alejandro Victorino (29) – Ciudad Soluca
AMLC: 24. Alfredo Valenzuela (24) – Dunas Del Sol

The combination of the tireless box-to-box midfielder Espina and the deeper lying playmaker Vecino served Defederico well in the second half of the World Cup qualifiers and is expected to continue in Cassadaigua. Valenzuela provides nice balance on the left but faces competition from the pacy yet erratic Carlos Álvarez. Vazquez and Victorino provide more defensive minded options and Rafael Bustamanté is a prodigious talent whose off-field antics and wafer-thin temper are starting to prove a liability. He’s expected to be locked in his hotel room for much of the tournament.

FC: 9. Iván Mayoral (30) – Alianza Jucaro
FRLC: 10. Miguel Marí (29) – Dínamo Maturín
FC: 17. Fabián Guzmán (22) – Sporting San Marquez
FRC: 20. Matías Cáceres (25) – Ciudad Soluca
FL: 23. Andrés Saavedra (22) – Estrella Torreón

Big Iván Mayoral will once again provide the focal point of the attack with Matías Cáceres dropping off to his right and the mercurial Miguel Marí drifting whether he sees fit to punish the opposition or dropping deeper into ‘the hole’ in a 3-4-1-2 system. Saavedra is a more conventional wide option on the left while Guzmán is a young targetman whose been earning rave reviews in the SuperLiga of late.

Style

Defederico credits former Sargossan great Ernesto Farias for his own tactical approach, a 3-4-3 system with a high defensive line and an emphasis on pressing and harrying the opposition into a mistake. He is also far more attack minded than his predecessor and his players are encouraged to get the ball from front to back at a rapid pace. Long balls are consider anathema, with even the goalkeeper encouraged to slide a pass to the defender rather than hoofing it up field. The system is relatively fluid, with 5-3-2, 3-4-1-2 and 5-4-1 all used to some degree in recent matches.

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

Style Modifier = (+3)

Kit
Courtesy of ediraf

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

by **Thibaea** » Mon Jul 09, 2018 6:49 am

The Autorité nationale des sports of the Republic of Thibea
After getting some experience under their belts in the 79th WC, the Baptism of Fire for that World Cup, as well as competing in the last Copa Rushmori, Maurice Bonhomme's squad returns in the exact same selection as it was more then a year ago as they look to begin their second international cycle, this time with experience that can hopefully help them perform better. Their debutant performance in the last Copa Rushmori was just as atrocious as their performance in the 79th World Cup, only finishing 3rd out of four thanks to a draw in their final match against Sargossa. That draw was the only time they took home points, so Bonhomme has already stated that he's expecting the team to win their first game in this CR, and their first intraregional game ever, right out of the gate to set the tone for their campaign going forward.

Management for the Thibaean 'Warlocks' National Team
Manager: Maurice Bonhomme
Assistant Manager: Noël Jaubert
Player-Coach: Cyril Dujardin
Chief Physio: Roseline Cortot

Kits for the Warlocks

Kits were designed by Ninette Sylvain of Cher Graphics Solutions, who have previously designed dozens of kits for the Ligue and other football associations and clubs within the Republic; the burgundy and blue of the primary is to represent the former colors of the old nobility while the alternate kit was selected as the royal blue is a widely popular color within the Republic while as green to represent the lush, wide green ranges and plains of the southern portions of the nation.

Players for the National Team:
Style Modifier: +2.5
Formation: 3-6-1
Captain: Vincent Desjardin
Vice Captains: Jean-Luc Deniau, Fabien Gachet
Free Kick Taker: Alexia Sardou, Valéry Barbet
Penalties: Vincent Desjardin, Hugues Lafaille

Starting XI:
GK:#2 Évrard Chappuis (Age 28, M)
CB:#1 Valéry Barbet (Age 21, M)
CB:#13 Jean-Luc Deniau (Age 26, M)
CB:#19 Zoé Cazenave (Age 31, F)
DMC:#3 Ariane Rousselle (Age 20, F)
DMC:#20 Fabien Gachet (Age 30, M)
WBL:#8 Hugues Lafaille (Age 27, M)
WBR:#15 Yseult Fétique (Age 23, F)
AMC:#4 Vincent Desjardins C (Age 28, M)
AMC:#6 Alexia Sardou (Age 25, F)
ST:#12 José Milhaud (Age 29, M)

Reserves:
GK Cécile Piaget (Age 28, F)
D/WB Noël Blanc (Age 22, M)
D Tristan Gainsbourg (Age 23, M)
D Elise Lecocq (Age 31, F)
D/MF Annie Beaumanoir (Age 28, F)
W/MF Henry Chevalier (Age 19, M)
MF Alain Gérin-Lajoie (Age 22, M)
MF Frank Héroux (Age 27, M)
CF Émilien Cochet (Age 25, M)
CF Roselyne Delafosse (Age 20, F)

Select my scorers — Yes
Give out yellow cards to my players — Yes
Give out red cards to my players — Telegram me first
RP injuries to my players — Yes for injuries limited to 3 days, anything more serious telegram me
Godmod injuries — No
Godmod scoring events — Yes
Godmod other events — Yes

by **Mytanar Region** » Mon Jul 09, 2018 6:03 pm

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE - MYTANAR NATIONAL TEAM SQUAD, COPA RUSHMORI XXX.

After a disappointing showing at the last Copa Rushmori, Robin Hjik and Lev Repin hope their squad will improve their performance for the landmark thirtieth edition of the region's premier football competition. The Copa Rushmori is an extremely important tournament for Mytanars, with it being a chance for the national team to prove itself against many of our closest rivals. It is also one of the international tournaments that our team has won, with a memorable triumph over Astograth in Copa Rushmori XVII being regarded by many Mytanars as the country's most impressive sporting achievement.

The squad is largely the same as the previous tournament, although two uncapped players have been called-up to the national side for the very first time: centre-half Luka Bobic of Crvena Zvezda and central midfielder Mehmet Elvahic of Tekstil. Nebojsa Aleksic has also been recalled to the squad following a solid domestic season.

Robin Hjik is optimistic about the team's chances: "We know that we have some outstanding quality in this team and we didn't feel that our performance last time was representative of how good our players actually are. The narrow loss against Northern Natanians in our opening game was the only reason we didn't qualify from the group and had we drawn that game we actually would have qualified for the knockout rounds which was our original aim. This time around it is much the same and we believe that we can learn from mistakes last time and move forward and get out of the group stage. Once it is knockout football then we have as good a chance as anyone and that's really what I have tried to instil in these players ahead of this tournament.."

The results from the previous Copa were disappointing, but by no means embarrassing: a 1-0 loss versus Northern Natanians; a spirited 4-2 defeat to regional giants Pasarga; and a 1-0 victory over Savojarna. As Robin Hjik alluded to, a draw in the opener would have been enough to qualify from the group stage, but after all, hindsight is a wonderful thing. This is the squad that will attempt to improve on last time out:

Pos.  2nd Pos.  ##  Name                Age  Club                Caps/Goals  Notes
GK              01  Jasmin Savic        26   Atletik             5/0
GK              12  Adel Gudelj         32   Liria               0/0
GK              23  Pedja Kasun         22   Ararat              1/0         DBC 40 winner

DL              02  Tihomir Feric       24   CDSA                1/0
DL              13  Ilija Lambulic      30   Nyva                7/0

DC              03  Damir Azanovic      30   Crvena Zvezda       7/0         Captain
DC              04  Niksa Obadko        24   Liria               3/0
DC              14  Luka Bobic          25   Crvena Zvezda       0/0
DC              15  Josip Radonic       31   Atletik             5/0

DR              05  Petr Isaev          24   Crvena Zvezda       7/0
DR              16  Mario Uzelac        25   Atletik             2/0

DMC             17  Duje Madar          30   Energija-Nuklearna  2/0

MC              06  Grigor Todorov      27   Crvena Zvezda       7/0
MC              07  Jeda Mehmedic       27   Liria               2/0
MC              08  Tahir Fejzuli       23   Arka                7/1
MC              18  Mehmet Elvahic      26   Tekstil             0/0
MC              19  Mateja Stojkovic    27   Ararat              3/0

AMC             09  Slavko Lalic        26   Energija-Nuklearna  5/0
AMC             20  Sime Pandev         35   Nyva                4/1         Vice-Captain

ST              10  Jezdimir Ocokoljic  20   Crvena Zvezda       7/3         DBC 40 winner
ST              11  Alen Zekic          28   Atletik             6/0
ST              21  Nebojsa Aleksic     24   Tekstil             1/0
ST              22  Duro Filipovic      29   1896 Ebor           2/0

Manager         RH  Robin Hjik          56   N/a
Assistant       LR  Lev Repin           46   N/a

Once again, the squad is relatively inexperienced at international level, but all players have plenty of Mytanar Top League experience under their belts that is hoped to serve them well. The starting eleven's average age is 25.4 and Hjik has said repeatedly that the current crop of players in Mytannion is one that can grow together and aim towards the end goal of being a squad that can win things and compete at the highest level again. They have plenty of time to grow together given that low average age (the squad's as a whole is still only 26.7).

The team are playing the 4-3-1-2 formation that is common across all teams in the Mytanar national set-up. Robin Hjik was highly insistent that one uniform formation and playing style needed to be implemented in order to create a national footballing identity. Historically Mytannion has been renowned for fast-paced, counter-attacking football – often forgoing possession and relying on speed and accurate passing to make their way up the pitch. This is generally the style this team will play too.

Jasmin Savic retains his #1 shirt in goal, he's a pure shot-stopper and has enjoyed great success with Atletik in recent years. His distribution is described as good, but that is at a domestic level and he may sometimes take risks in international games that he probably shouldn't. The Top League is not a top three UICA league anymore and therefore the pace of the game is not what it once was, Savic may make errors with his distribution due to this (and occasionally dwell on the ball longer than he should). Adel Gudelj and Pedja Kasun are his back-ups, once again there were calls for Kasun to be given the starting spot in order to give him experience. He's got the potential to be a truly exceptional goalkeeper as demonstrated by his success in DBC 40 where the Mytanar side ended up champions. Robin Hjik decided to go with Savic for now, opting for a little more experience and nous in the hope of greater success in the present rather than the potential (intangible) effects the experience of starting could give Kasun for future tournaments.

The back four remains the same as the last Copa Rushmori except for one change at left-back, where Tihomir Feric is promoted to the starting spot over Ilija Lambulic who started last time. This is purely based on the fact that Feric has a little more pace and stamina now given Lambulic's advancing years. Although Hjik has said that Lambulic will be valued when the team needs to shut games out given his experience.

Azanovic and Obadko start at centre-back, both are comfortable with the ball at their feet. Azanovic captains the side once again, he's seen as a real leader and it's hoped his commanding presence will rub off on Obadko for the future - with the younger centre-half being touted as a future captain. Luka Bobic is called up for the first time after some really good performances in the Top League alongside Azanovic. Josip Radonic retains his place as a back-up.

Petr Isaev will start once again at right-back, he's known for being quiet off the field and a calming metronomic presence on it. He won't set the world alight when on the pitch, but is solid enough defensively and can occasionally pick out a cross when going forwards. Mario Uzelac remains the secondary option.

In the centre of the park, the team will start with the trio of Todorov, Mehmedic and Fejzuli. Fejzuli will tend to be the most advanced of the three and is a real playmaker, with a great eye for a pass and quick feet that he regularly uses to beat opponents. Todorov and Mehmedic are both box-to-box midfielders, this will mean that one of the two will have to sit-in when the other attacks and could be something opponents exploit if they do not decide to do this. Due to this trio playing quite narrowly there is a lot of pressure on the team's full backs to provide width when going forward, again, this is something that could be exploited if both choose to push up (or even one), as they may leave space behind themselves.

The two back-ups in the middle are Mehmet Elvahic and Mateja Stojkovic. Elvahic is uncapped, but has been called-up following a stellar season domestically for Tekstil. Mateja Stojkovic played in the previous Copa Rushmori, but following hit-and-miss performances has fallen down the pecking order with the national side.

If the side are ahead, Duje Madar is the go-to substitution in order to kill the game, he's a really good destroyer in the centre of the park. He is a player in the mould of Mytanar legend Tikhon Voronin, a tough tackler whose passing is highly underrated.

Slavko Lalic is preferred to the veteran Sime Pandev in the attacking midfield role. Lalic is the prototypical Mytanar number ten (despite him not wearing the squad number!), icy cool in possession and always looking for a killer pass, whilst being completely useless defensively and refusing to contribute when pressing or in tracking back. Luckily he doesn't have too many defensive responsibilities. Pandev is a legend at domestic side Nyva and is a well-respected competitor wherever he goes around Mytannion. Whilst his stamina is not what it once was, his dribbling ability remains as tricky as ever and he still has an excellent eye for goal. He's also an excellent set-piece taker and will definitely be in Hjik's mind if a game looks like it could go the whole 120 minutes to penalties.

Up front it is the same duo as last time, with starlet Jezdimir Ocokoljic getting the nod alongside towering battering ram Alen Zekic. Ocokoljic is nominally a striker, but is prepared to drop 'in between the lines' or out wide in order to find space to exploit. His record of 3 goals in 7 games for the national team is solid enough and he is generally thought of as the next big thing in Mytanar football - it surely won't be long until teams from the top UICA leagues come calling to try and tear him away from his home club Crvena Zvezda. His pace, dribbling ability and finishing give him all the attributes to be a truly world-class forward. Alongside him is Alen Zekic, whose goalscoring record for the national side has caused concern for Robin Hjik, 6 caps with no goals is not a great return for a forward who is so prolific domestically. However, he does a lot of work for the team, holding the ball up and bringing creative players like Lalic and Fejzuli into play and not to mention providing through balls and flick-ons for Ocokoljic to exploit.

Nebojsa Aleksic is recalled to the national team and he could end up finishing this tournament in a starting role if Zekic continues to misfire in front of goal, he's a real modern day complete forward. He's tall and quick, with good finishing and aerial ability too. His contribution to the team's build-up play is perhaps the only area where he leaves something to be desired (particularly in comparison to Zekic), but give him a chance in front of goal and he'll more often than not take it. Duro Filipovic is the other striking option and he's more or less a direct replacement for Zekic, giving that aerial threat and if behind late on and in need of a goal, Hjik is not afraid to go fully route one and play the pair of them together and even add a centre-back out of position as well for good measure.

Set-piece takers.
Corners: Tahir Fejzuli and Slavko Lalic rotate, irrespective of which side the corner is on.
Short free kicks: Ocokoljic or Fejzuli, basically. Ocokoljic is more likely to take them from the left as he's right-footed and Fejzuli more likely from the right as he's left-footed. If Sime Pandev is on the pitch he would have first refusal on taking them from whichever side.
Long free kicks: Either Fejzuli or Tihomir Feric. Feric and Isaev will always stay back on long free kicks and Fejzuli will be unlikely to be any further than halfway into the opposition's half also as defence against any counter-attacks (both centre-backs will usually be in the opponent's penalty area).
Penalties: In the game first choice would be Ocokoljic and second would be Fejzuli. If Sime Pandev is on the pitch he would take it ahead of either of them. In the event of a penalty shoot-out the order would be something like: Pandev (if on the pitch); Ocokoljic; Fejzuli; Azanovic; Todorov; Aleksic (if on the pitch); Zekic; Lalic; Feric. If it goes beyond that then both teams need to get better penalty takers.

Things to note:

Permissions:
Choose my goalscorers: Y
Godmod Scoring Events: Y
RP injuries to my players: Y, you may comment on severity although I shall have final say
Godmod injuries to my players: N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Y, Mytanars are notoriously passionate and may accumulate these at an extremely high rate
Hand out Red cards to my players: Y, see above, no more than two in one game please
Godmod Other Events: Y

STYLE MODIFIER: -2.5

OOC: I love collaboratively role-playing so if you have any ideas about something you would like to do, do not hesitate to TG me. I will likely be receptive to most ideas.

by **Trans-Dniesters** » Mon Jul 09, 2018 11:41 pm

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

It has been at least ten years since Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko was defeated in glorious battle against the forces of the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft, six years since the greatest field marshal the world has ever seen was undisputably beaten by the forces of a faraway country that was still in the midst of recovering from a devastating religious civil war. Those ten years have seen humiliation upon humiliation bestowed by these meddling foreigners upon the once and only rightful ruler of the United Socialist States, Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko. The nation, and our Great Leader, was forced to accept a humiliating peace with the "Democratic" Republic, which saw our glorious nation become a mere "client state" of these troublesome foreigners. In exchange, Great Leader Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko, would remain in position as rightful ruler of the Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia, as befitting his station in life. Yet knowing that he is only ruler by virtue of a foreigner's whim has weighed down hard on the Great Leader Field Marshal. This resulted in the great United Socialist States closing itself off from the rest of the multiverse, so that no foreigner would see the shame that had been wrought upon the Great Leader.

But no longer. Great Leader Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko has decided that the time for seclusion is over. No longer will Pridnestrovia remain under the shadow of the foreigners that had forced itself upon our great nation. We will show that Pridnestrovia has what it takes to become a real and true member of the multiversal community. But we will not do it through our military force. Instead, we will show that we are the best in the multiverse through sports! Sports, which is just codified barbarism! This will show the multiverse that Pridnestrovia is the best sporting country in the world! We will defeat every other nation that dares come up against us! We were forced into a shameful armistice by the puppet states of the Anglatian imperialists in our mission to bring rightful order from the chaos that had arisen in the Nordskanian nation, but there is no shame in the field of sports! We will show our superiority over everyone else in the Global Cup of Soccer!

(OOC: I love being a dictatorial country's propaganda writer)

BASIC INFORMATION
Name of nation: The Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia
Demonym: Pridnestrovian
Team colors: Green and red
Style modifier: +4 (Quite an attacking side)
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Head coach: Yakov Chernenko (55 y/o, Pridnestrovia)

STARTERS
GK: Marfa Isayevna KIRILENKO 30 y/o, Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies

(Abanhfleft), vice captain
Marfa Kirilenko is one of the just many players on the Pridnestrovian women's football team who were born in Abanhfleft because their parents fled the Motherland during President Field Marshal Stepan Stepanenko's glorious revolution. It took a lot of convincing before Marfa, along with many other promising female Pridnestrovian-descended players in Abanhfleft, agreed to represent the Red Army. But who could blame Marfa for her decision to represent Pridnestrovia, the land that had kicked out her family just because her father spoke out against the President Field Marshal? With great keepers like Vicky Carter, Yannie Redborne, and Yelena Valinovskaya in the Fleftic women's team, it was a no-brainer decision. Decent and traditional keeper with only the occasional acrobatic save in her repertoire of skills. After a few topsy-turvy years in Anglatia, Marfa has moved back to Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies on a free transfer.

RB: Petra Petrovna SHEVCHENKO 27 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol Women

Petra is one of the few players in the current Pridnestrovian women's team to be born and raised in Pridnestrovian, as well as playing for a Pridnestrovian team. It's not hard to see why a lot of Pridnestrovia's players have to come from overseas: women's football doesn't receive as much attention from President Field Marshal Stepanenko as the men's game, and Shevchenko is only in the team because there are no other right backs available that are better than her, which is saying something because Petra has done nothing much for Sheriff Women to distinguish her in this field.

RCB: Aygül KARTAL 27 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi Mujeres

(Oontaz)
Aygül Kartal is one of few Turkish Pridnestrovians who had found fame and success both inside and outside of Pridnestrovia, although it should be said that Gryphons Mujeres barely got out of last season's Oontaznik Women's First Division with both hands on the title, as Ladies of Santos FC were constantly on their tail until the final matchday. Even though she's a defender, Aygül scored six goals, two of against Santos Ladies in both times that they faced each other in the league; the first goal tied the game between Gryphons and Santos, and her second goal gave Nubalochi all three points against their title rivals in the final matchday. Aygül's most probably going to be an impact sub for the World Cup qualifiers.

LCB: Beyza KUNDAKÇI 29 y/o, Gryphons Nubalochi Mujeres

(Oontaz)
Beyza Kundakçi is basically the other half of Gryphons Mujeres' defensive unit that won them the Oontaz Women's First Division title last season. Whereas her partner-in-crime Aygül Kartal was the goalscoring half of their defense, Beyza was the solid wall of defense half of the equation. She had 15 clean sheets to her name, which is a very great thing considering that every team in the Women's First Division only has 18 games in the league. Like Aygül, her main job will be as an impact sub, but Beyza's job will be to help close out games, especially against better opposition.

LB: Oksana Yuriyevna ARTYOMOVA 29 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol Women

Another Fleftic-born Pridnestrovian player who decided to represent the Motherland due to both loyalty and the fact that there are much better left-backs representing the blue, orange, and green Fleftics. On her day, Oksana Artyomova is a capable left-back who even has a possible future as a wing-back, but since Pridnestrovian footballing philosophy is that there is no need for a defensive player to join in on the attack if there is no pressing need, Oksana will have to stick to her defensive duties. But that doesn't mean that she doesn't try being a wing-back from time to time, and while this hasn't really harmed the national team yet, ruthless teams could take advantage of this and exploit the space on the left side that Oksana will inevitably leave during her attacking forays.

RDM: Yelena Demyanovna SHOSTAKOVICH 31 y/o, La Gorlions

(Schottia)
Yelena Shostakovich is listed as a defensive midfielder, but she's more than just that. While she can and does have a great tackle that can break up any and every kind of attack (provided that she can react to it in time), her main job is to receive the ball from the defense and then initiate the Pridnestrovian attack. She's also good for the occasional long shot or free kick when needed, but her main forte is really ball distribution and pitch vision.

LDM: Salome Sabine FALK 28 y/o, Dinamo Bender Women

Now that push has come to shove, Salome Falk will step in to replace her half-German, half-Russian compatriot Bogdana Feltzer as a defensive midfielder now that Bogdana has hung up her international boots, but Salome still has a tendency to throw her whole body behind tackles and other ways of breaking up opposing attacks. She already has a lot of bookings to her name, and we can now only hope that Feltzer has mentored her into a more responsible defensive midfielder, or else at least one yellow card is all but assured once Salome steps onto the pitch.

RW: Greta Nikolayevna HEDERVARY 29 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol Women

Greta Hedervary is an ethnic Hungarian living in Pridnestrovia, which has both its benefits and drawbacks. The Hungarian Pridnestrovians are generally considered as some of Pridnestrovia's best football players, and Greta is the daughter of Miklos Hedervary, one of the greatest Pridnestrovian players to ever grace the pitch. She inherited a lot of the talent and skill that made Miklos Hedervary one of the best and most beloved Pridnestrovian players, but living up to such a great heritage could be something that Greta might find just a bit too hard to do. Greta's skill set includes impressive crossing and striker-like composure and finishing in front of goal, but there's always that sort of hesitancy in her style of play.

CAM: Tanya Ilyinichna POROSHENKO 30 y/o, Dinamo Bender Women

Yet another player born and raised in Abanhfleft who nevertheless decided to go play in Pridnestrovia and represent it in international football because there were simply too many better players in her favored position playing for the Lady Revolutionaries. Tanya Poroshenko may not be as good with distributing the ball or scoring goals as Allison Torres, but that's only because Tanya didn't pursue football until she was in college and decided to take up a varsity sport. Looking at it that way, though, Tanya had much the same start into football as Sonny Torres, except for the fact that Tanya's university never won any trophies while she was playing, and also probably because she was Pridnestrovian. Who says institutional racism is dead?

LW: Bisera Hristova HARALAMPIEVA 30 y/o, Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies

(Abanhfleft)
Bisera Haralampieva is yet another Pridnestrovian player lured back to the Democratic People's Republic by the promise of actually getting to sit on the bench or even sometimes start for the national team, something that the Samahang Futbol ng Abanhfleft wasn't able to offer, but that's mostly because the Fleftics have got the likes of Adelaide Singh and Cecilia Johnson on the left wing for them. Bisera actually once looked like she could compete for a place in the national team alongside Singh and Johnson; this was when she had her breakout season with Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies. When it became clear that she wasn't going to be considered for a spot in the Fleftic national team, though, Bisera accepted a move to Pridnestrovia's Union Rheinburg Women to be able to train more closely with the Pridnestrovian national team. But after getting benched in Rheinburg, Bisera is considering moving clubs yet again, with Anglatia's Hunsen Loggers being her most likely target, probably because it's also her only target. Bisera is yet again on the move, this time back to Rosenpfelblatz City after anti-Pridnestrovian sentiments arose in Anglatia following the Pridnestrovian invasion of Nordskania.

CF: Irina Vladislavovna PAVLYUCHENKO 31 y/o, Sarvusdalamoive Ladies

(Abanhfleft), captain
Out of the slightly medium-sized shadow of Arkadia Zubarenko comes Irina Pavlyuchenko, yet another daughter of Pridnestrovian exiles come back to represent the Democratic People's Republic. There's nothing much to distinguish Irina from other strikers in the multiverse: she has great left and right feet but has a slight preference for her right foot, and she has good aerial ability. About the only thing that stands out with Irina is that she's a bit of a wind-up merchant. She has a tendency to play mind games with the opposition, and while some of her mind games involve words with the opposing players, most of her trickery has to do with the way she always flits about on the pitch. Irina is quite the witch when she moves around. A scarlet witch, even, given that she's playing for a country full of Reds.

RESERVES
GK: Bogdana Stoyanova MARKOVA 35 y/o, Dinamo Bender Women

Bogdana Markova used to be Pridnestrovia's starting keeper before she lost her place to Marfa Kirilenko after she impressed in her debut season for Abanhfleft's Imperial Markovsky Women, and Kirilenko's twenty clean sheets were more than enough to help the Imperials get promoted to the Fleftic Ladies' Second Division. It's tough to be a backup keeper, especially when the keeper starting ahead of Bogdana is five years younger than her and has much bigger potential than Bogdana has. Yakov Chernenko may be looking to finally drop Bogdana from the team in favor of younger keepers, as his decision to bring on Sibylle Pfenning instead of Bogdana during the Copa Rushmori round of 16 game against Valladares will testify.

GK: Sibylle Charlene PFENNING 26 y/o, Ludogorets Markovsky Ladies

(Abanhfleft)
At just 20 years old, one would think that there would be a great deal more keepers who were better at, well, keeping, than Sibylle Pfenning, but apparently, this German Pridnestrovian girl living in Markovsky is much better than any other keeper playing in Pridnestrovia, aside from Bogdana Markova. But it looks as if even Markova is on her way out of the team, as it was Sibylle whom Yakov Chernenko sent on to replace the injured Marfa Kirilenko during the ill-fated round of 16 match against Valladares in which Pridnestrovia eventually lost 3-2 in extra time.

DEF: Irena "Irenka" SZWEDA 30 y/o, Union Rheinburg Women

Irena Szweda, nicknamed Irenka by her friends, is a good enough fullback coming from the bench. Her lack of any decent stamina means that she can't be relied on to last the full ninety minutes of a regular match, and she's definitely out of the question if extra time and penalties apply. However, she can come on in the first minute of extra time and make the difference in the team's defense.

DEF: Violetta Rurikovna UTKINA 29 y/o, Xemlice Rovers Ladies

(Abanhfleft)
Violetta Utkina is the eldest daughter of Pridnestrovian goalkeeping legend Rurik Utkin, back when he was just an 18-year-old barely scraping a living as a reserve keeper in Abanhfleft's lower leagues. Violetta is great on her feet and is a good defender, but to her father's chagrin and slight dismay, she couldn't become a decent keeper to save her life. But Violetta's happy enough playing outfield, so that's that.

DEF: Tatiana Igorovna GEVORGIAN 32 y/o, Dinamo Bender Women

Tatiana Gevorgian is one of the few remaining players from the original women's team to keep her spot in the new national team, and for good reason. Not only is she one of the most dependable center backs in Pridnestrovia, she also has a very good partnership with her fellow center back, Yelena Tymoshenko, a partnership which Yakov Chernenko will be more than reluctant to mess with. Tatiana is a solid center back who can break up attacks at will and has the speed and pace to keep up with counterattacks, and her only weakness is an inability to defend aerial threats, but then again, that's what Tymoshenko is for.

DEF: Yelena Artyomovna TYMOSHENKO 34 y/o, Dinamo Bender Women

The other half of both Pridnestrovia and Dinamo Bender Women's effective center back partnership. Yelena Tymoshenko is a big and strong defender with great aerial ability and a neat left foot that looks very much like a forward's scoring foot, which makes a potent threat during set pieces. The only problem with her is that she's slower than a turtle, which allows sides with quick counterattacking tactics to take advantage and capitalize on a reduced back line. Well, that's where Tanya Gevorgian comes in, anyway.

MID: Oleksandra "Lesya" Ruslanovna KEDZIERSKA 35 y/o, Sarvusdalamoive Ladies

(Abanhfleft)
There's nothing much to describe Oleksandra Kedzierska, "Lesya" to her friends and family, except that she's a decent enough fullback to warrant a spot in the Pridnestrovian women's national team. And that's that for her, apparently. There's nothing much else to distinguish Lesya from any other fullback sitting on the bench of a national football team.

MID: Nadezhda Martinovna PLESETSKAYA 26 y/o, Eielo Sunlight Ladies

(Abanhfleft)
Nadezhda Plesetskaya is a hard-hitting midfielder with an uncanny ability to somehow end up between the passing lanes of opponents and disrupt intricate passing moves with a move as simple as sticking a foot out. Long balls are just about the only way to get past Nadezhda but at this point, it wouldn't surprise people if Nadezhda were somehow able of leaping very, very high into the air to intercept a long ball. But aside from that there is nothing much else to distinguish Nadezhda from the rest of all the defensive midfielders in the world. Shame, really, because just a little more work on her passing and she could prove to be something even more than what she already is at the moment.

MID: Ursula Brittany ULLMAN 29 y/o, Vorpommern Nyqvist Women

Taking Ursula Ullman out on the pitch is a last resort for Yakov Cherhenko. It's not that Ursula is green around the gills when it comes to playing as a central midfielder, but her passing still needs some work. Ursula has great field vision, but whenever she tries to get a pass to a teammate, an opposing player or the referee gets in the way of the pass. If she could just improve her passing, then Ursula could be a great ball distributor like Yelena Shostakovich, but that's still a long way away.

MID: Yelizaveta Fyodorovna ISAYEVA 36 y/o, Hackett

(Nephara)
Technically, Yelizaveta Isayeva is a midfielder, but more often than not, she's deployed as a winger or even an out-and-out striker. Let it be said that Yelizaveta is more suited as a winger or even a central attacking midfielder rather than as a striker or center forward. Yelizaveta is the kind of player who would rather pass the ball to a teammate even though she has the clearest shot at goal.

FW: Lyudmila Antonovna KARBOVANETS 23 y/o, Real Chinchinhua (Taeshan)
Lyudmila Karbovanets is rapidly becoming Pridnestrovia's fastest rising star and also the brightest spark in what had been, until very recently, a shit CSKA Women side. Unlike their men's team, CSKA Women have never been able to achieve the same level of success as the original Army Club, and even though the two clubs are now affiliated with each other, only now is CSKA Women beginning to challenge Sheriff Tiraspol Women for the honor of the Pridnestrovian capital's top women's club. Lyudmila got her big break when all four of CSKA Women's first team strikers were injured in various forms and such and Lyudmila was handed a golden opportunity to announce herself to Pridnestrovia. Lyudmila's main traits are her speed and ambidexterity with regards to her shooting feet. Left foot, right foot, it doesn't matter; Lyudmila can and will score with either foot. Sometimes she might even attempt a shot with both feet (if that's even possible) just because she could.

FW: Irina Vladimirovna SEVERTNIK 31 y/o, Ladies of Santos FC

(Oontaz)
Irina Severtnik is a basic striker: good shooting, balanced left and right feet, some aerial ability, and an oft-noted inability to defend or chase the ball. It's for this reason that she's been put under the wing of Irina Pavlyuchenko, although whether she'll learn the Scarlet Witch's wind-up skills along with a dogged determination to go after the ball remains to be seen.

STARTING LINEUP

KITS (by Adidulas)

IMPORTANT STATISTICS
Win-loss record: 54-19-53 (penalty shootouts are counted as draws regardless of final result)
First international match: VS Aynard (W 6-0)
First win: VS Aynard (6-0)
First loss: VS Fratton (0-1)
Biggest win: VS Nurkama (9-0)
Biggest loss: VS Pasarga (2-6)

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

SCHEDULE
TBA

HOME STADIUM (ARMY STADIUM, TIRASPOL)

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

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

by **Mapletish** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 2:30 am

TEAM MAPLETISH FOR COPA RUSHMORI 30
Nation Name: The Mapletia Unida of Mapletish
Demonym: Maplish/Mapletian
Team Nickname: The Lions/The Dragons/The Minnows
The Supporters: The Fierykop

OFFICIAL KIT
HOME - AWAY - KEEPER

HOME STADIUM:
Mapletish National Stadium - 86,000

The Buio'Dzz
Before every match, the team members (including the designated substitutes for the match) will perform a traditional ritual, called the Buio'Dzz on the pitch just before play begins. This is one of the many tribe war dance from the aboriginals of Mapletish, meant to awe their opponents, this is similar to the [RL] New Zealanders' haka before their matches. This would be performed unless the hosts of the match in question object to the ritual.

STAFF
Manager: Kirk Zavier, 39
Kirk Zavier, a confident, young and charismatic youth coach from Home United's famed academy. A multi-sports coach with experience in the Football, Basketball, Rugby and Ice Hockey scene, Zavier might not be the most experienced manager that The Dragons has to offer but this young man has decided to make the leap from club football to national football. At 39, he has already amassed 20 years of sports coaching and management experience starting off from his love of sports statistics and his interest in sports and wellness. He led his elementary school athletics department in just 3 years and his advances led him to lead Secondary School and University athletics departments. He made the switch to Home United's academy and was keen on developing young talents in the different sports departments before embarking on his footballing journey. Already the manager of the U21 team at the Di Bradini Cup, the RFAM has gone ahead to appoint Zavier as the National Team manager as well. What can this young man do at Cassadaigua for the Copa Rushmori?

Assistant Manager: Piero Aurelio, 44
Aurelio is no stranger in the Maplish football scene and is also part of an important core of backroom staff that aims to bring Maplish football back to the elite few of the multiverse having dropped out of the rankings after a period of multiverse inactivity as Mapletish struggled to rebuild. Aurelio, a disciplined and quiet man who was known to lead by his actions and was a man with few words. A capable Sports Science and Medicine specialist, all eyes are on how this quiet man can support Kirk Zavier. Having success in the Copa Rushmori is certainly an advantage. Aurelio led the Lions to a 2nd place finish in the 24th Copa Rushmori.

PLAYERS: - Starting Eleven
#1 - GK - Fermin Feldstein - Age 24 - Home United
A talented and young shot stopper, Feldstein stunned everyone in his amazing showing for Home United, as they became the team to have conceded the least in Season 16 of the Primero Liga. Acrobatic, brave and a little eccentric. What can we comment about Zavier's choice of players? Standing at a towering 2.15m, you might have mistaken him to be a heavyweight weightlifter than a footballer, but his goalkeeping skills will surely stun everyone when he's called to action. Back when he's not playing football, he is a handball and hockey goalkeeper as well. We can say he really likes this position a lot. "Keeping trouble out" should really be his motto, I must dare say.

#2 - LB - Giovanni Rattler - Age 24 - Home United
Zavier is certainly biased towards Home United here. Rattler came through the famed Home United's La Academica and Zavier was his coach. His one on one approach to every single player has certainly bore well. Rattler is a supporting left wing back, known to pull out attacks from the wings if need be but he tends to stay and help out at the defence if he so prefers. Hanging around the transition point between attack and defence, he is known for his rough and physical defensive plays and he possess great crossing skills from the left wing and a dead eye for a great pass.

#3 - CB - Delmar Sauve - Age 24 - Club Atletico
Club Atletico is known to produce some of the best defenders in Maplish football and you don't have to look far and wide for the reason. Right here, we have Sauve, who is great at reading defensive plays and directing defensive transitions. He's known to be the fastest defenders in the Primero Liga, in a straight 100m dash, he can clock a staggering 9.7s, if he decides that playing football is not his thing, he could very well become a sprinter. He might not a tough tackler but his amazing ability at chasing down his man, great in the air, intelligent jockeying ability and a great long shot has made him one of the most important players at Club Atletico.

#4 - CB - Valentine Osgood - Age 26 - Home United - Vice-Captain
Home United's skipper and main man for the Protectors' defence, we see a tough tackling defender who does not shy away from aggressive body checks and jostles against his opponents. Giving away fouls however aren't all that is common as he is also quick in getting to the ball first before his man starts to see himself flying away. Strength and speed are some of the key qualities that Osgood possesses. Not fond in joining the attack he is often the last man whenever the players go for the attack. Winning the ball back and getting the lob off the dribble to his teammates who are going for the attack, he is not only a centre piece for the defence but also the starting piece for the attack.

#5 - RB - Freddy Kampen - Age 24 - SC Barcelona
One of the main man in SC Barcelona's rise to the Primero Liga and their impressive showing in the Primero Liga season that came after. A former rugby player and a muay thai specialist, he often fought for SC Barcelona on the fighting cages too when he isn't playing with a ball and he practises his tackles from the waist down whenever he is in need of some oval ball training and to improve his anticipatory skills on a ball which doesn't exactly bounce in a regular pattern. You can certainly tell his muay thai striking skills as his agility is second to none, often bursting out in spectacular and acrobatic moves for his defensive clearances or playing out eye catching moves on the right wing to get past opponent defenders. Not to mention, his aggressiveness and nerves of steel too, makes him a great set piece taker too.

#6 - CDM - Toribio Andres - Age 26 - Golden Phoenix - Vice-Captain
The skipper of Golden Phoenix, Andres is a deep lying anchor man with a keen eye for the pass, great crossing ability and is a playmaker. Always on the lookout to create any chances to allow an attacking play in the attacking front. Versatile, Andres can move towards the attack whenever there is a need to and double up as an attacking midfielder. Great ball control, creativity and good shooting ability that can be matched by many if the forwards in the Primero Liga, it has also allowed him to cover up on the wings and even play as the attacking man up front too and pose as an additional threat to the already attacking lineup of the Lions. This will certainly play well for Zavier who is always keen on quite an offensive style of play.

#7 - CM - Armando Seabrook - Age 24 - SC Galatasaray
Seabrook is a box to box midfielder and that enables him to participate in both the attack and the defence which made him one of the most important and versatile links in SC Galatasaray. He is best known for being daring and aggressive in his plays as he likes to push forward to support the attacking front and have the highest tendency amongst his midfield colleagues to surge late into the box when there is a tight defensive line to break up the deadlock or to get on the end of crosses to project some additional creative surge to the attack. In defence, he is known to harass opponent ball carriers and is not afraid to get in for a challenge and his aggressiveness could spice things up between him and the opponents although for the most part, he displays sportsmanship-like behaviour.

#8 - CM - Hiram Hupp - Age 23 - Versatio Giants
A key industrious and versatile link for Versatio Giants' maiden Primero Liga victory in Season 16, Hupp is still in the midst of learning the game and has started to morph a playing style of his own. He is known to drift out wide and supporting flank play, stay around the midfield line to balance both his attacking and defensive responsibilities, going forward when necessary but keeping to the middle of the pitch and attempting to spray passes out to the attacking front and supporting the defence whenever possible to be that additional man to trap any roaming attacking players. Hupp is expected to provide a covering and support role for Seabrook when he is out on his attacking runs and partnering with anchorman Andres in covering gaps in the defence and providing the necessary support to project their dominance on the pitch.

#9 - CAM - Leandro Cloe - Age 26 - Home United - Captain
The star man, the talisman, the captain. Cloe is expected to play a centre role in both the attack and his midfield duties as he takes on the leadership role for the Dragons. An understudy to his senior, Alero Junio who helped the Dragons qualify for the 64th and 66th World Cup, Cloe takes on his senior a lot with his technical flair, agility, speed and vision. However, despite all the similarities portrayed by pundits and fans, this disciple has his own style as he likes to operate from the midfielder instead of the attacking front, but that hardly curbs his attacking tendencies. Although he operates higher than his teammate, Seabrook in the midfield, Cloe seems keen to allow him to operate far more forward on the attack than him and Cloe would fashion himself to be the secondary playmaker albeit sitting in a more advanced position than his teammate Andres who lies deeper in the midfield for his role. However, there are times when Cloe would take on the defence by himself and fancy a few spectacular moves or two to break the monotony of his job. Great technique with the ball on the move or in deadball situations, it has certainly played well to his playing style.

#10 - CAM - Willis Cerrone - Age 24 - Golden Eagles
The star man for Golden Eagles on the attack and often known to drift out to the flanks and work as the winger instead, Cerrone will see his job scope expand when he takes on his assignment with the Dragons. Other than allowing him to roam towards the wings, he will also need to take the work of being the second striker of the team, behind the more esteemed Eduardo Eutimio, who has now got a different job scope and is needed to sit further inwards than wingwards. In his attacking role with Golden Eagles, Cerrone showed promise in his role as a complete forward, possessing the technical attributes in providing the assist and putting the ball in the net, helping to creating the space and spearheading attacks and putting the powerful and tactfful shots. With his additional responsibility in the midfield, he is expected to participate in the hooking up of the midfield to attack here as he sits deeper inwards than he's used to in his club.

#11 - ST - Eduardo Eutimio - Age 24 - Golden Phoenix
Eutimio might not be the number one choice for the striker position and many would have expected him to start somewhere else and probably not the centre man for the attack. But, here he is, now the main target man for the Dragons. With all the work done in creating the chances, stretching the defence both physically and psychologically, Eutimio's main task would be to put the ball behind the net. Making use of his physicality, he would work to sniff out the inches of space that is needed to complete the attacking move and open up space for his own strike or for his strike partner and the supporting midfielders. His aerial presence is also second to none and it can be a goalscoring threat or an opportunity to bring teammates into play. Despite his attacking tendencies and offensive role, he is also known to drop back to the midfield and relay possession and bringing his supporting teammates into play which makes this team and all around team. Although, that doesn't explains Zavier's weird combination of tactics and giving player roles to certain players who might not fit into the mould. Only putting them to play will prove whether his hunch or pure tactical genius turns out all but right.

Reserves
#12 - GK - Tyrone Kittel - Age 26 - Golden Eagles
The Golden Eagles skipper missed out on the starting lineup against a younger Feldstein. However, that doesn't mean that age is a deciding factor in this position. An aggressive sweeper keeper, Kittel will act dynamics to the field when attacks start all the way from the goalkeeper instead of the midfield or the backline and his long, punching goalkicks and dropkicks are some of the main tools for the Dragons to start any counter attacking moves if the game is tied to a deadlock or if the outfield simply cannot open up the stubborn opposition defence. He can also prove to be a lifesaver with his risky and daring runs towards the opponent's penalty box in the dying minutes of play if there is a set piece or a corner kick to provide for that extra man in attack.

#13 - GK - Nicolas Eatmon - Age 23 - SC Barcelona
Other than the stunning defence of SC Barcelona which allowed it to survive the Primero Liga but also to thrive in the competitive plays. There lies the shot stopper, Eatmon. A goalkeeper who likes to come up from the goal line and provide for an additional man on the defensive line possession hold. Although not the aggressive sweeper keeper style like Kittel, Eatmon is a more back in the line kind of guy and would get head on with a 1 on 1 situation than to attempt a risky tackle plus hand to ball move which so happen to be the style of his more aggressive goalkeeping colleague, Kittel.

#14 - CB - Russell Shao - Age 26 - Versatio Giants
Although the main man in the defence for the Giants title winning season, Shao does not have the dominating presence as his colleague in defence and fellow skipper for his own team, Valentine Osgood. As compared to his teammate, Osgood, Shao is known to sit a little deeper than other defenders and likes to adopt a more Libero kind of play. Aiming to sweep up balls, pick up extra forwards and make goal saving tackles, blocks and interceptions. That however, doesn't mean he won't go up and go up for the attack when needed, which allows him to venture much higher up the pitch to provide support in the midfield and play balls through to attacking teammates or to come out and do a one to one on an attacking player to deny his advances on the goal.

#15 - LB - Oliver Ullman - Age 26 - Northampton
Not exactly the wing back as seen compared to his defensive colleague Rattler, Ullman brings another dynamic to the left back position in the Dragons' defence. Less of a wing back but more of a ball playing defender, who looks to stop opposition forwards and to clear the ball to danger or to launch defence splitting through balls from deep or an accurate lob over to a supporting midfielder or attacker going for an offensive run, Ullman likes to sit a little deeper and more inwards than wingwards than Rattler. Although more defensive minded, his eye for the attack inducing pass, lob or cross has for certain helped Northampton in their midtable finish.

#16 - CB - Kurtis Leno - Age 24 - Bury Town
A key player in the centre of the defence for Bury Town in their rise to the Primero Liga and their subsequent retention in the league thereafter. Leno is a no nonsense defender who prefers to stay in the defence and in the be the last man. A tough tackle and great at breaking up attacks, he excels in man to man marking, often tracking his markee down to the tee, bravely closing them down and drawing danger away from the penalty box. Known for his acrobatic clearances and agility, we can expect him to sweep up goal clearing balls and last minute clearances much to the relief of the shotstopper in charge.

#17 - RB - Cyril Macdonnell - Age 24 - Balmope Betis
Macdonnell is a full back and is up and all ready to provide much needed width on the wings should he needs to. Known to close down on opposition wingers and stripping the ball away from them, he also makes use of his speed and attacking tendency to join in, supplement and overlap the midfield to provide the attacking third with the much needed attacking flair and creativity. A keen eye for the cross and a great eye for the killer passing move, Macdonnell can be counted on to play up at the anchorman who strays wingwards should the midfield need an additional man to balance out the field.

#18 - CDM - Randall Lamberth - Age 23 - Catanzaro
Lamberth impressed in his role as the ball winning midfielder for Catanzaro, although he resembles less of the ball winning midfielder as he often runs with the ball down or arrive late with a daunting run into the opposition area as seen from the behaviour of a more traditional box to box midfielder. He looks to balance the two tendencies and seeks out to support the attack whilst picking and choosing his opportunities to arrive into the opposition's penalty box for the additional attacking head for the midfield. He also looks to cover the defence when needed and fill in any gaps left out by the defence and to close down on the opposition attack before the defenders does.

#19 - CM - Tobias Perrella - Age 24 - Central Aden Knights
Perrella excels in the roaming playmaker position and his the heartbeat of CA Knights, driving forward with the ball to spearhead attacks as well as tracking back to the defence to stop oncoming opposition forwards and to cover defensively. A stamina packed man with and always offering a passing option to his teammates, he prefers to maintain a high intensity of the field and aims to pick the ball up in deep positions and work the ball forward to the attacking third. A supporting player in both attack and defence, he can be seen camping on the edge of penalty box for a chance to run in for a shot or try a precise pass for a goalscoring opportunity while covering and tracking back fast whenever he anticipates a transition of play.

#20 - CM - Nickolas Zelman - Age 23 - SC Borussia Dortmund
The one man that got Dortmund to tick as he's the industrious box to box midfielder who helps to hook the attack and defence together. Also a wide midfielder who doesn't shy away from making his plays on the flanks whether is it his defensive or attacking duties. Dynamic and talented, he is a versatile player and can he possess great dribbling and on the ball skills which helps him take on the defence confidently whereas back in his defensive duties, his tenacity and aggressiveness are key in tracking and stopping opposition forwards down their strides.

#21 - CAM - Pedro Rosado - Age 22 - Home United
Rosado prides himself as a young advanced playmaker, who likes to drift forward whenever he gets the chance and he's versatile enough to play on the flanks too. One of Jaime Severiano's favourite youngsters and an exciting prospect who has come out from the prestigious La Academica, Rosado's offensive tendencies can be seen from his mentorship from Leandro Cloe. However he too is different from Cloe. Rosado prefers to be in a more supportive role than his mentor and likes to stay in a hole where he has a domineering view of play in front of him and looks to spray passes ahead to support attacking players instead of driving towards the defence line.

#22 - ST - Pete Vargas - Age 24 - Balmope Betis
Missing out on the starting spot, Vargas is a defensive forward who likes to put pressure on the defensive line and chase down the defensive man in possession, pounce on loose balls and harass the defence when given the chance. Vargas prefers to keep his attack simple and looks to bring other players into the game and he likes to sit a little deeper in the attacking third instead of going forward as he looks to start his attacks whilst putting pressure on the opposition defensive midfielders instead of pressuring the central defenders. He can of course be counted on when there is a need to relay possession and re open up space in games which seem a little more difficult to break apart.

#23 - ST - Chester Kulikowski - Age 24 - SC Galatasaray
A goal machine or a false nine, Kulikowoski is comfortable with both. He's the talisman man for SC Galatasaray in their domestic season and is the top goalscorer for Gala in Season 16 of the Primero Liga, and a key member in allowing Gala to finish third. Known to lead the attack line and opening space for teammates to move into or to take on the attack by himself, he is well known for his aerial presence, technique on the ball and his shooting ability. He is also a threat when he is assigned to drop into a false nine position which allows him to drop deep and get the ball from the midfield and getting more space to perform his magic and to pick out a pass to his overlapping teammates or to allow him to take on the defence by himself as he lets his teammates advance into favourable positions.

Tactics: 4-5-1
Keen switching, keen flanky play and behind the ball work, technical and physical, that was how many would describe it. A possession based and direct attacking play combined with high pressing, that defined the simple essence of football that has evolved to suit many of the players who have come through the youth academies in Mapletish and also a keen feature in the senior Maplish game. The Maplish favour a rather attacking game and the tactics put themselves up for it. Players who are keen to go out wide to the flanks to attack, defenders sitting deeper down in the defence line. The defence line is also known for their well rehearsed and drilled offside trap with players like Osgood and Sauve experienced in leading the defensive line. The attack led by Eutimio prefers to create their chances from the midfield up although Eutimio is a skillful player and can be paired up well with Cerrone who likes to drift forward to support him. The 4-5-1 acts in a 4-3-3 in someways as Cerrone likes to sit a little further forward than what a 4-5-1 allowed him to and the space given to him to roam is rather large, either he could partner with Eutimio down in the attacking, playmaking midfield position or he could partner with Cloe. Defensive wise, the 4-5-1 set up traps any player who might want to find themselves some space in the gaps between the midfield and the defence. Enveloping into a suffocating 7-2-1 if need be with Andres covering up as an achor together with Hupp who both possessing defensive tendencies.

Penalty Taker: Leandro Cloe/ Freddy Kampen/ Eduardo Eutimio
Free Kick Taker: Leandro Cloe/ Eduardo Eutimio/ Willis Cerrone
Corner Taker: Freddy Kampen/ Hiram Hupp/ Toribio Andres

Style Modifier: +2.5

THE opponent can,
Choose my goalscorers? Yes.
Godmod scoring events? Yes.
RP injuries to my players? Yes, within reason, that means no career ending injuries or my players end up dying. I reserve the right to change the severity in the follow up RP.
Godmod injuries to my players? Yes, as above.
Hand out yellow cards to my players? Yes.
Hand out red cards to my players? Yes, only a maximum of 2 per match and that excludes the captain or vice-captain.
Godmod other events? TG me first and I'm always open to ideas.

by **Darmen** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 12:37 pm

OOC: The Copa Rushmori is happening in September 2041. Ages correct as of Friday, September 6, 2041.

National Football Team of Darmen
presented by the
Darmeni Football Association

Formation: 3-1-4-2
Style Mod: +3

Coaching Staff
Position          Name                 Age
Manager           Godefroy Abascal     38
Assistant Manager Berhtoald Myers      33
Offensive Coach   Iwan Perrault        46
Defensive Coach   Evan Bullock         47
Goalkeeping Coach Martín Findlay       36

38 Man Roster
Pos Name                 Age Caps Goals Club
GK  Hyman Campo          21   46   0    Suburban Warriors
GK  Daniel Abram         21    6   0    Royal PFC
GK  Fiacre Knopp         29    2   0    Club Jim Falls
GK  Njáll Wyman          23    0   0    Johnho United

LB  Jean Virgo           26   48   3    Chuckio FC
LB  Anastasio Wilkie     21   13   0    Chippewa Valley United FC
CB  Silver Abbey         22   61   1    Tempala United Saints
CB  Jacob Coghlan        29   19   0    MTK Kingsville
CB  Cormac Krämer        21    4   0    Atlético Augusta
CB  Lucio Bolivar        23    0   0    Fuego United (Petroslovania)
RB  Ritchie Porsche      30   97   4    Darmen City United
RB  Klopas Maddox        28   34   0    Atlético Augusta
RB  Cyrus Spalding       20    8   0    Scott City FC

DM  Alberich Goldschmidt 28  109  14    MTK Kingsville
DM  Kerr Ramírez         24   29   1    Rushmore United
DM  Vicente Agua         26    0   0    Fuego United (Petroslovania)

LM  Mordecai Ó Cuilinn   24   76   7    Chippewa Valley United FC
LM  Riley Mac Pharlain   22   18   1    Nyancato Institute
LCM Marcellinus Winton   26   51   6    Vogler City Force
LCM Gerrard Parks        23   16   2    AFC Scott City
LCM Abraham Cardoso      21    4   0    Darmen Military Academy
CM  Teddy Favreau        20    2   0    Fuego United (Petroslovania)
RCM Zachariah Butler     27   74   8    Brham United
RCM Mercurius Byrnes     22   19   0    University of Science
RCM Alan McNeil          23   16   3    MTK Kingsville
RCM Ioses O'Sullivan     20    2   0    Brham State
RCM Coleman Mac Ealair   19    0   0    Bledia Arba FC
RM  Juanito Stafford     23   46   2    Rogerton Valladar CF
RM  Aquila Freud         21   16   4    Sleepy Hollow (Taeshan)
RM  Sorley Welch         21    5   0    Eau Claire United

LF  Felix Lucanus        30  105  61    Sterling City United
LF  Brian Firmin         24   39  12    Johnho United
LF  Skylar Hurst         23    8   7    Atlético Augusta
LF  Halli Vaughn         20    2   0    Menomonie United
ST  Dillan Puig          23    2   1    Suburban Warriors
RF  Craig Blackwood      20   36  16    Royal PFC
RF  Colin Russell        29   29   3    Scott City FC
RF  Primitivo Reagan     22    4   2    Menomonie United

Starting XI & Formation
-------Lucanus---------Blackwood-------
--Ó Cuilinn--Winton--Butler--Stafford--
--------------Goldschmidt--------------
-----Virgo------Abbey------Porsche-----
-----------------Campo-----------------

Captain: Felix Lucanus
Vice-Captain: Alberich Goldschmidt
Left Corner: Alberich Goldschmidt
Right Corner: Alberich Goldschmdit
Penalties: Felix Lucanus
Free-kicks: Alberich Goldschmidt

RP Permissions: No killing, or other serious life altering events, otherwise have fun. Also, feel free to choose my goalscorers.

by **Cassadaigua** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 4:11 pm

The group draw is complete!

Pot 1: Valladares (1), Eura (2), Pasarga (3), Nephara (4), Eastfield Lodge (5), Ceni (6)
Pot 2: Pridnestrovia (7), Taeshan (8), Savojarna (10), Darmen (11), Olastor (12), Sargossa (13)
Pot 3: Cassadaigua (15), Yuezhou (16), Sarrbia (18), Mytanar Region (24), Thibaea (31), East Neutralia (UR)
Pot 4: Qusmo (UR), Rou Scotan (UR), Mapletish (UR), Kalosia (UR), Crystalline Caverns (UR), St Trinians (UR)

Group 1: (First Pairing Games each MD in South Granby) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Victoriaville )
Valladares (1)
Savojarna (10)
East Neutralia (UR)
Qusmo (UR)

Group 2: (First Pairing Games each MD in Winchester) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Northbury)
Pasarga (3)
Taeshan (8)
Sarrbia (18)
Mapletish (UR)

Group 3: (First Pairing Games each MD at Brattleboro Stadium) (Second Pairing Games each MD at Brattleboro Tech)
Ceni (6)
Olastor (12)
Yuezhou (16)
St Trinians (UR)

Group 4: (All games involving Cassadaigua at Concord Heights Stadium, other pairing at University of Concord Heights)
Eura (2)
Darmen (11)
Cassadaigua (15)
Crystalline Caverns (UR)

Group 5: (First Pairing Games each MD in Rutland) (Second Pairing Games each MD in Starksville )
Nephara (4)
Sargossa (13)
Thibaea (31)
Rou Scotan (UR)

Group 6: (First Pairing Games each MD in Grande Mountain) (Second Pairing Games each MD in New Lakeland)
Eastfield Lodge (5)
Pridnestrovia (7)
Mytanar Region (24)
Kalosia (UR)

MD1 is at 8pm EDT, on Friday the 13th. May that bring good luck!

by **Rou Scotan** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 5:30 pm

info 
Style modifier: +3
Head Coach: Severino Fonseca
Formation: 4-4-1-1

Goalies: Fausto Rui Silva
Aurora Arkadiusz Rodrigues


Defense: Matias Ademir Jedynak
Domingos Poplawski
Sancho Żuraw
Narcyz Rocha
Caetano Belo
Du Poplawski
Gervásio Gwózdek
Marcelino Sitko


Midfield: Artur Piotrowski
Egídio Mata
Desidério Piotrowski
Zezé Szwedko
Szczęsny Mozdzierz
Błażej Lucas
Evaristo Alves

Att Mid: Fabricio Sadowski
Balduíno Niemec

Strikers: Carlinhos Serafin
Hipólito Brzezicki
Heliodoro Gajos

by **Sargossa** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 11:48 pm

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition - Sport

Once More Unto The Copa

Blanco Borrayo reports;

It’s Copa Rushmori time again and the Football Federation of Sargossa are not hanging about. Before the majority of the rest of Rushmori football’s great and good had even assembled the Corsairs were already settling into their training camp in the Dagan port city of Starksville, nestled in Rushmore’s deep south. The haste perhaps demonstrates two priorities. Firstly, a desire to quickly erase memories of a heart breaking second half collapse against Barunia at the World Cup in The Equestrian States, a defeat that denied the nation a place in the knockout rounds of the sportiverse's premier competition for the first time since World Cup 63. And secondly, to make amends for a pretty dismal Copa campaign two years ago in which Sargossa exited at the group stage after defeats to both host nation Valladares and Sameba, followed by a disappointing draw with new boys Thibaea. A series of results that saw the three time champions finish bottom of their group.

Coach Rodrigo Defederico has kept faith with the majority of his World Cup charges, albeit with a sprinkling of new faces. Roberto Penedo is a talented goalkeeping prospect who Defederico knows well from his time in charge of Dunas Del Sol, but is unlikely to make an appearance. Giving the youngster a taste of tournament football seems to be the goal here. Although his club teammate Luís Camargo and forward Fabián Guzmán, on the back of an impressive season in San Marquez, should get some game time. But there is a touch of disappointment that some fresh blood hasn’t been introduced into the midfield. The pairing of Sergio Espina and Alejandro Vecino has proved impressive but there’s a danger that an ill-timed injury or suspension could leave the side devoid of the craft and guile they provide. Rafael Bustamanté had been seen as the natural successor to the aging Vecino but a lukewarm World Cup qualification campaign and a string of off field incidents has dented faith in him.

If exorcising some demons from the last Copa is an objective then the nation need not wait too long to get started, as their final opponents from two years ago are first up this time around. Thibaea’s one and, thus far, only Copa point came from a 2 – 2 draw with a faltering Sargossa effort in Valladares and Maurice Bonhomme’s side are looking to go one better here in Starksville. A positive result will be key given who awaits next. Nephara unquestionably represent the group’s class act and are Sargossa’s second opponents. The Cormorants already sit in the history books with their WCC Grand Slam of titles and will be looking to add another page to that storied record with a Copa Rushmori trophy to sit alongside their five Campionati Esportivas, won prior to their change of confederation. They may lack the elegance and cachet of a Starblaydia or Valanora but history has shown strong, physical and well organised sides do win titles. Think the Sarzonia side that were ranked number one for so long, or current world champions Brenecia. And a title is something Michael Brandon sorely needs, to cement his place as one of Nepharim football’s true greats. Finishing the group are debutants Rou Scotan. They may be the new boys but coach Severino Fonseca’s faith in a buccaneering attacking style may, if his charges overcome their nerves, see them spring a surprise or two on their more established opponents.

by **Crystalline Caverns** » Wed Jul 11, 2018 11:51 pm

Crystalline Caverns
"The Frostac Wolves"

Roster
Goalkeepers
- Clovis Terrano
- Sekar Sersiuppe
- John Pastoni

Defenders
- Josceline Arik 
- Austin Timour
- Vanamo Starkeysa 
- Maksym Kujesmart
- Tufayl Muffie 
- Topaz Cerulean 

Midfielders
- Dan Castellini (C) 
- Balint Tovnia 
- Brodie Wavers 
- Etzel Zircon 
- Rien 
- Cosimo Planetaris
- Zerah Buani  

Strikers
- Landen Smoker 
- Bituin Coinicus 
- Chasper Magedy
- Seffora Phirestone

Coaching Staff
- Gaston Rolf (Head Manager)
- Velvet Armitage (Assistant Manager)

Starting XI
Kits (Brought to you by Kita-Hinode's Vulpine Sportif)

Other Info

Skill: 0 (UR)
Style: -4

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
- Choose my goalscorers: Yes
- Godmod scoring events: Yes (TG First!)
- RP injuries to my players: Get my consent first, then we'll talk injuries ;3
- Godmod injuries to my players: See above
- Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
- Hand out red cards to my players: TG for approval
- Godmod other events: As long as you aren't killing my people, you should be good.

by **Savojarna** » Thu Jul 12, 2018 6:42 am

SavojarSports.sj - inside reports from all Savojarna
Savojarna's National Team: Young Blood for Cassadaigua

Football is a highly popular sport in Savojarna, even though it usually has to take the #2 spot behind ice hockey. Thanks to bigger stadia, the Savojar Futbol Serien (SFS) still manages to draw the highest average attendance numbers in the country year after year and is generally considered a fast-growing league offering lots of openings for young players. Savojarna's top team is ranked 28th in the world, and following the success of the women's national team in the past World Cup campaign, the men are under pressure to follow up. The focus of Savojar football is traditionally on tactics, teamplay and athleticism. The young team fielded by Arnulf Viljansson is a good mix from experienced players and young guys, and gets supported by the former WC player Nick Orlov as assistant coach. The team focuses on defensive stability and deadly, swift counters over the wings, where they have their two most dangerous and fastest players in Jashkin and Voynov.

TEAM

STAFF
Coach: Arnulf Viljansson (47)
Assistant Coach: Nikolai Orlov (37), Dmitri Simunov (32, physical coach)
Goalkeeper Coach: Valtteri Andersson (40)
Doctor: Dr. Christer Ljungberg (46)

STYLE: -1.25

ROSTER

#1: GK Anders Jarnström (32, 192 cm) - Dynamo Sjoedrhavn
#2: CB Trent Ullqvist (22, 194 cm) - Lokomotive Jarnstad
#3: CB Simon Omark (18, 178 cm) - ASK Landsmark
#4: DM Joonas Andersson (30, 187 cm) - FK Admiral Storevik
#5: CB Denis Metanov (31, 188 cm) - Lokomotive Jarnstad
#6: CM Niklas Hoyberg (25, 194 cm) - Dynamo Sjoedrhavn
#7: LM Jesper Groen (25, 182 cm) - ASK Landsmark
#8: RM Mikhail Jashkin (20, 176 cm) - RLSK Pawlograd
#9: ST Arvid Jotansson (24, 192 cm) - FK Admiral Storevik
#10: OM Morten Poulsen (20, 182 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn
#11: ST Dominik Ryberg (29, 198 cm) - ASK Landsmark
#12: GK Thomas Larsen (24, 195 cm) - CASK Thorsborg
#13: RB Flemming Skov (21, 184 cm) - Energie Thorsborg
#14: LB Jorgen Hallsen (28, 179 cm) - Lokomotive Jarnstad
#15: RM Ville Mertonen (30, 184 cm) - Dynamo Novaya Russica
#16: OM Petteri Hytönen (32, 186 cm) - CASK Thorsborg
#17: LB Bjarne Thorvaldsson (23, 194 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn
#18: ST Perttu Karjanen (30, 176 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn - C
#19: LF Krister Voynov (22, 177 cm) - FK Admiral Storevik
#20: DM Libor Milanov (24, 195 cm) - Dynamo Novaya Russica
#21: RB Alexey Nurkanen (25, 180 cm) - Libertas Bergheim
#22: CB Ola Granlund (26, 187 cm) - Libertas Bergheim
#23: GK Fridtjof Rolfrsson (24, 184 cm) - ESK Storevik

ROLES
Captain: Karjanen => Omark => Metanov => Hytönen
Free Kicks (direct): Voynov (left), Hytönen (centre/right)
Free Kicks (long): Andersson (left/centre) / Jashkin (right)
Corners: Voynov (left) / Jashkin (right)
Penalty Kick/Shootout progression: Karjanen => Hytönen => Ryberg => Voynov => Andersson => Jashkin => Poulsen => Hoyberg (skip substituted players, move from strikers towards GK if listed players are exhausted)

LINEUP AND TACTICS

Viljansson employs a 4-2-3-1 with two wingers that often cut into the box and try to score themselves, and two fullbacks that join the attack if they can to offer a possibility of a cross to the centre. Without the ball, they usually use the forward and the winger on the side with the ball to put pressure onto the opponent, but mostly wait to catch the attack with their double-six to launch a quick counter out of the midfield. In defence, they often try to push the opponent to the outsides and rely on the control of Jarnström as well as the size and strength of their centre-backs to win aerial superiority in the box. If ahead, the formation often shifts into a 4-4-1-1 (in its extreme form with Voynov replaced by Groen); if behind, they often switch to a 4-4-2 with Ryberg or Jotansson replacing one of the defensive midfielders. Voynov and Jashkin then fall more to the sides, making the formation reminiscent of a 4-2-4, and in extreme cases a 3-3-4 with Poulsen replacing a centre-back.

Goalkeeper: Anders Jarnström
Jarnström is Savojarna's number one goalkeeper and has been so since the nation's debut on the international stage. Despite his age, he is still a strong goalie who has great oversight and control of his box. His reflexes are around average, but thanks to size and jumping power (as well as very strong positioning) he is hard to beat. His replacement is Fridtjof Rolfrsson, a spectacular and athletic goalkeeper who sticks to the line more. He might play if Savojarna are already qualified before their final group match, while Thomas Larsen is not expected to play unless there are injuries.

Defence: Bjarne Thorvaldsson, Simon Omark, Denis Metanov, Alexey Nurkanen
Both fullbacks (Thorvaldsson and Nurkanen) are similar types of players, both very fast and good at crossing the ball into dangerous areas. They often join the attack to create an overweight on one side while their respective winger cuts to the middle and opens up space. In defence, especially Thorvaldsson works a lot with his size and strength, while Nurkanen employs his speed a bit more. In the centre, there is a rather clear division between Omark, who is a positionally strong and fast defender whose task is to organise the defence and start the attack if he gets hold of the ball, and Metanov who is much slower but taller and stronger, playing a classic centre-back role. The replacement LB Jorgen Hallsen is likely to come into play if Savojarna are ahead, as he is a more typical left back and joins the offence less often, being a tough and hard to get rid of player. Flemming Skov has been called up following a very successful U21 campaign and is a fast player with lots of stamina, but similarly offensive to Nurkanen and somewhat unlikely to play much due to their many similarities. In the centre, Granlund and Ullqvist are more or less typical Savojar centre-backs: tall and strong, hard to pass and dangerous at standards, but somewhat limited with the ball. Either may replace Metanov as they offer more speed (but less routine), but it is likely that Omark will start and finish most games.

Defensive Midfield: Joonas Andersson, Niklas Hoyberg
There is a clear division of labour in the Savojar defensive midfield, as it is divided between the defensive specialist Andersson and the more creative Hoyberg. Andersson's role is to stop attacks as early as possible and make it hard for attackers to get by him, relying on his physique and stamina to make the life of the opposing playmaker hell on earth. His partner Hoyberg powers and orchestrates the match from behind, distributing balls and launching counters. Against offensive teams, he may also support Andersson and has his defensive qualities, but has his strength in creation. Libor Milanov is almost a one-for-one replacement of Andersson, but is a bit more aggressive and more talented in terms of offensive creation.

Offensive Midfield: Krister Voynov, Petteri Hytönen, Mikhail Jashkin
Jashkin is a fast wingers with a dangerous shot or cross, and searches for opportunities wherever he can as proven in the U21 tournament. He is known for a deadly eye and his laser-like passes. His counterpart Krister Voynov is one of the most followed talents of Savojarna and much revered. The fast winger is capable of very dangerous crosses, but his true strength lays in his great vision and his ability to pose a continuous threat to the goal together with a helping left-back. Voynov can both score assists by crossing the ball and goals by pulling inwards. Between them, Hytönen is the playmaker of the team but may be replaced by Morten Poulsen if more speed is required. Poulsen is the creative mind of the U21 team and a very quick player for the counter-attack. His left foot is very accurate and given his young age, he is already very cool under pressure. On the wings, Groen and Mertonen provide a bit more security and are more defensive-minded, but also more conservative in terms of their offensive play. They are likely coming on the field if a lead needs to be preserved, feeding the strikers with good passes and securing the wings against attacks, but cannot offer as much of a threat as Voynov and Jashkin.

Forward: Perttu Karjanen
Perttu Karjanen is the captain and record goal scorer of Savojarna and will lead the team on the field with clever positioning and a deadly shot. Compared to his replacements, he is not as strong with his head due to lower size, but has a lot more speed and is more versatile. If he gets shielded too much, he often drops back to the offensive midfield to operate together with Hytönen to create chances for the wingers. His replacements Ryberg and Jotansson are typical close-range strikers and goalgetters, lurking near the box for a cross, pass or to create space for Voynov and Jashkin. Both are over 190 cm tall, meaning they are at least level or even taller with most centre-backs. While Ryberg relies mostly on that fact and his superior strength, Jotansson also has great command of the ball and a strong distance shot, making both valid alternatives to Karjanen.

KITS

Designed and manufactured by ediraf

RP PERMISSIONS
Choose Goalscorers: Y
Godmod Scoring: N
Injure Players: Y (no longer than the rest of the tournament, if it is more than on TG me)
Godmod Injuries: N
Yellow Cards: Y
Red Cards: Y - not more than one per game
Godmod other events: ask for permission

Interactive roleplay on and off the pitch is highly encouraged, and I am also willing to go for longer storylines - shoot me a TG!

Also, almost all my players are willing to transfer into better leagues, if you're interested, contact me before the next transfer phase or smth like that (whatever complies with international domestic football conventions)

by **Pasarga** » Thu Jul 12, 2018 12:08 pm

Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y

Pasarga Roster
Nickname: Wanderers
Most Caps: Mór Császár (196)
Most Goals: Tobias Möller (96)

Kits

Home Away Third
Modifier: +1

Manager: Mór Császár, age 45
Assistant: Mezei Orbán, age 44

Goalkeepers
GK: Thorsten Gerber, age 27, CA Paulinthal
GK: Aswad Munif Shalhoub, age 28, OAS Royal FC

GK: Gordana Stanic, age 30, Royal Jam FC

(F)

Defenders
LB: Juhana Jäntti, age 28, Sabrefell Athletic

(F)
LB: Kristian Friedmann, age 30, IFK Aldenskoett

CB: Neci Földessy, age 26, CA Paulinthal
CB: Christopher Fosse, age 30, OAS Royal FC

CB: Ralf Bader, age 22, Directus

CB: Wolfgang Wefel, age 28, Sebio City

RB: Dirk Freitag, age 25, Falourr

RB: Linka Polak, age 22, Baskita FC (F)

Midfielders
RW: Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir, age 28, Samaj FC

(F)
RW: Ádám Berecz, age 20, Baskita FC
A/MC: Jörg Feierabend, age 25, CA Paulinthal
MC: Tar Hunor, age 28, AC Izotz Zubia

MC: Jürgen Eisenhower, age 26, Revolutionaires

MC: Gamal Kadeer Haik, age 28, Stein-los Turkish
LW: Dominik Krause, age 28, Ulsa

AML/LW: Kati Szöllôsy, age 23, Tanrısal (F)

Strikers
ST: Ingþór Auðbjörnsson, age 28, AC Izotz Zubia

ST: Alexander Kárpáty, age 23, Mallox

ST: Mücahit Aardenburg, age 22, Club Stein-los
AMC/ST: Alexander Jager, age 20, Revolutionaries

Captain: Þorvaldur Oddsson
Corner Taker: Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir
Set Pieces: Jörg Feierabend
Penalties: Ingþór Auðbjörnsson

by **Mytanar Region** » Thu Jul 12, 2018 6:20 pm

SPORT - EXCLUSIVE: JEZDIMIR OCOKOLJIC INTERVIEW.

by Aca Šaponjić

As I went to the Mytanar squad’s Copa Rushmori base just outside the city of New Lakeland in Cassadaigua, I was unsure what to expect from the interview I would be conducting. Jezdimir Ocokoljic is generally talked about as the finest young talent produced in Mytannion since perhaps Robin Hjik himself and many would expect those sort of plaudits to inflate the ego of someone so young.

Many forget that he is barely out of his teenage years, still only 20 years of age and the comparisons to the likes of Hjik or strikers such as Laze v Tuhinju or Kristian Haugen could easily go to the youngster’s head and cause him to take his eye off both the literal and proverbial ball. A growing interest in things outside of football: alcohol, fast cars, gambling and partying, for example, would come as no surprise and there has been many a story of young footballers taking the ‘wrong’ path and squandering their obvious talent because of an insatiable appetite to live a playboy lifestyle down the years.

The memory of Ismet van Huijgevoort’s untimely alcohol and cocaine fuelled demise still clouds the nation’s sporting psyche at times.

However, meeting Ocokoljic, the first thing I was struck by was how completely normal he is. We met, a few minutes later than planned (something for which he apologised for profusely, he had been in a team meeting that had started and therefore finished a little later than expected), dressed in the all green team issue tracksuit, shaking my hand and asking was there anything I needed to conduct the interview, making a joke about the weather and seemingly fully at ease with his increasing media duties.

The sense of normality, that he could be just like any other 20 year old from anywhere in Mytannion comes from the fact he looks and acts just like any other 20 year old rather than some preening prima donna who believes he has made it and that he can relax, safe in the knowledge his career will always be like this when in reality it can be snatched away in a split-second.
Ocokoljic’s hair cut could be seen on any young lad anywhere, from Snezhnaya to Trunca (“a 1 to 3 fade on the back and sides, slightly longer on the top and blended, with the fringe left down straight on the eyebrows”); the music he listens to could be heard from Pahranichny to Istocna Obala (“it depends what mood I’m in, if I want to belt out an anthem it’ll mostly be indie rock sort of stuff, bit of The Aurora something like that. If I want to have a little dance it’ll be some techy otskok beat, I like quite a few DJs”); along with the clothes he wears (“when I ain’t in team gear I love streetwear and sports casual inspired stuff”).

The point is he’s the same as most young Mytanars, just he’s the one living the dream and competing for the national side in the Copa Rushmori.

Unlike some starlets of previous years he seems level-headed and relaxed, the fame and fortunes that go hand-in-hand with being a professional footballer not seemingly affecting his personality. On the face of it he seems like a fairly normal 20 year old. An exceedingly talented 20 year old with the Mytanar footballing world at his feet and a large proportion of Mytanar hopes resting on his young shoulders.

“Jezdimir, this is your second big tournament with the senior team, how do you think the experience in the last Copa Rushmori will benefit yourself and the team this time around?”

“Naturally it will help, we were obviously disappointed with how things went last time and the gaffer mentioned how a point from our opening game would have been enough to see us through but I think that disappointment has – for me personally – sort of created a desire to do better this time around. We want to get out of the group stage and we really believe we can go a long way in the tournament.” He explains, shifting slightly in his chair as he turns his mind to the squad as a whole. “For the rest of the boys I think just competing at this high level – the Copa Rushmori always has a high level of quality – will help us all as we have been there and done it already, we know that we can compete with some of the best teams and we know that we all belong out there on the pitch.”

He’s right as well, the previous tournament was a bit of a disappointment, but that’s only due to the high standards set by previous generations of Mytanar players. The results were mixed: a 1-0 loss to Northern Natanians in the opener, followed by a 4-2 defeat against regional powerhouse Pasarga and finally a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Savojarna. A pertinent point that was not made all too often in the immediate aftermath of the tournament was that in all three games there were enormous positives to be taken from the team’s performances.

The narrow loss to Northern Natanians was a game that could have gone either way, in truth, with both sides having chances to score and a late equaliser from Slavko Lalic being correctly – but extremely narrowly – ruled out for offside. The game against Pasarga was a real back and forth encounter, with the game being at 2-2 on 70 minutes, after which the Pasargans superior class, experience, stamina and tactical nous finally won through. The game against Savojarna was an excellent performance, in which the Mytanar team’s tactical game plan was executed to perfection as the side allowed Savojarna possession before pressing the ball, winning it back and counter attacking at speed. Defensively it was the team’s best performance of the Copa.

Jezdimir Ocokoljic scored all three goals for the team in the tournament, showing exactly why he is the fulcrum of Robin Hjik’s attack. His uncanny knack for finding space is useful and his speed and quick thinking ideal for the counter-attacking style of play the manager is implementing. Of course following such an excellent performance last time, with three goals in three appearances, the pressure will be greater on the youngster in this tournament.

“How much do you think about what Mytanar fans might expect of you in this tournament? Have you thought about it at all?”

“Yeah, obviously it’s something that has crossed my mind, but it’s not exactly something new to me either. I’ve played for Crvena Zvezda since I was 16 and that’s not exactly like playing for a Sunday League team or a school team, the expectations there are huge and we’re expected to fight for league titles.” He points out, with the fact he was a major factor in his boyhood club’s league and cup double in the 22/23 season being something he’s noticeably proud of. He continued:

“The pressure is obviously a little greater when it’s playing for the Mytanar squad but for me playing for the national side is not something to be afraid of and that means I block out the pressure as much as possible. Playing for the national team is a privilege and something not many people get to do so I try to enjoy it as much as possible and I take the expectations from fans as a compliment because it means they think I can affect the games we play in a positive way.” He then added a comment that displays an underlying maturity that is probably beyond his years, “Playing football is never really a properly pressurised situation, doctors saving lives in hospitals or single mothers trying to raise a family on one wage, that’s real pressure and I try to remember that as much as possible.”

The maturity is perhaps a product of his own familial situation, his father – like so many Mytanar men – died in the civil war when Jezdimir was only 7. The awareness of the struggles of a single mother is from his own personal experience. Jezdimir was often left to look after his three younger siblings whilst his mother Elena went to work any one of three jobs in order to cobble together enough money to look after her young family.

He was picked up by both Crvena Zvezda and Partizan scouts at the age of 9 when he was playing small-sided street football in one of the ‘cages’ that are well-known to inner city youths up and down Mytannion. He supported Crvena Zvezda, so there was only one choice for him and he soon started training with their developmental age-group teams and was fast-tracked through the squads so that when he was 12 he was playing with the under-16 team. He was undersized, naturally, but his quick feet and quicker instincts meant he avoided heavy contact and even then he stood out as someone who had supreme natural gifts.

When he first started training with Crvena Zvezda he would often have to take his two younger sisters Natalija and Emilija and the youngest child, his brother Dusko with him to the training ground. When the coaches realised the situation they set-up a financial support system to ease the burden on Jezdimir’s mother Elena which allowed her to work less, meaning Jezdimir could finish school and then attend training without having to bring his siblings with him. This benefitted other youngsters too as the club extended the support system, realising it was a fairly common situation at the time, but it was testament to Jezdimir’s talent – the club wanted him to have the ideal conditions to develop his exceptional potential – that the system ever came about in the first place.

He has an awareness of the reality of what was going on in Mytannion at the time: “When I was so young and looking after my brother and sisters, I didn’t see it as anything out of the ordinary, we had many friends who had to do the same and we were used to it. I was just helping my Mum. But looking back now we can now see how fucked up the situation was at that time – not just for us as kids having to deal with that but for Mytannion as a whole, this was the same thing happening up and down the country. We heard stories about how Thessians could invade at any time and we were scared, it seemed like it really could happen, but it was all bullshit propaganda – we had more in common with your average Thessian than we did with the people who were putting out the stories about Thessians invading. There were Thessian kids looking after their younger siblings for the exact same reasons I was. It was a fucked up world.”

There is also the reality that Jezdimir is part of a new generation of young people who grew up during the civil war, but who are growing to see past old differences and hatreds between ethnic groups and regional identities that their parents held such strong beliefs about. “The fact we can see it was all bullshit is important, there’s no difference whatsoever between me and Tahir [Fejzuli, a native of the northern region of Visoravna] or Alen [Zekic, a Thessian]. People used small differences in language, culture, religion and whatever else to divide us and I’m glad that my generation is beginning to be a part of healing those old wounds. Many of us, as in members of this team, had similar experiences growing up, despite coming from completely different parts of Mytannion.”

It’s also clear that his family and the club he supports; the club that brought him through the youth system and into the first team squad both mean the world to him:

“Obviously my family are so important to me, I’m really close with my Mum and with my brother and sisters because of how things were when we were growing up. We had to look out for each other and without Dad being there things were hard and I feel like it really brought us together and almost defined the person I am today. I work hard every day because I know I have to make something for my family so we can live a more comfortable life than we did when we were kids. My Mum did the same thing when we were little so I feel like I have to repay her, she made a lot of sacrifices for all of us…” He stops to take a sip of water before continuing:

“I think that’s also why Crvena Zvezda mean so much to me, obviously I have supported them since being very young so there’s that emotional attachment anyway, but for me it’s a bit more than that. I see them as being almost like an extension of my family because of the way they looked out for us when times were hard when I was young. Families look out for one another in the hard times, like when I looked after my siblings for my Mum and with the club supporting Mum financially to give me a better chance to play football they really looked out for us.”

“Does that financial support add any pressure on you to stay with Crvena Zvezda? There are rumours about high profile teams from other countries being interested in getting you to play for them.”

“There’s no pressure at all. I want to be at Crvena Zvezda. Why would I want to leave the club I support? I want to be captain one day, I want to win more trophies with the club. Right now there’s nowhere else I could even imagine myself, I’m a Tsrvena boy and I love it here.” He said calmly, “The financial help wasn’t an inducement or a bribe – I know some people see it that way – the club saw someone who needed help and support and they provided it because they wanted me to reach my potential because they saw something in me. The situation with me bringing my sisters and brother to training with me was far from ideal and it just made life easier, it was generous for the club to do that but again: families look after each other and we’re a part of the Crvena Zvezda family.”

We then move on to the surroundings we find ourselves in in Cassadaigua. The squad will play two group games in New Lakeland and one in Grande Mountain and I wanted to know if he knew much about either place.

“Have you been to Cassadaigua before? How are you finding things here and what do you think of the venues that you will be playing at?”

“This is my first time in Cassadaigua and I have to say that whilst I’ve only been here about a week and have only seen a few parts of the place that I really like it. It’s pretty cool and everything seems modern and efficient so that’s nice.

“A change from home?” I ask.

“Haha, yeah, definitely.” A wry smile creeping across his face. “But no, it’s nice here I have to say. The lack of equality between men and women is a little different to home as well but I guess there would be some that would say we have the reverse situation at home and that it makes a nice change for women to be in charge, although I feel like we’ve moved past that a little bit. I’ve heard some stories about men being very poorly treated occasionally in Cassadaigua but I’ll have to experience it all for myself.”

“And the venues?”

“Yeah all the stadiums here seem so modern which is definitely different to home, I’m sure the atmosphere at the grounds will be very good as you’d expect with the Copa Rushmori. Nothing to be intimidated by, we’ve all played in hellish environments in the Top League: away days to Thessia and Miago spring to mind and obviously the derby with Partizan too. But if I’m honest, it doesn’t really matter where we play too much. On our days off it’ll be nice to explore Grande Mountain and New Lakeland a little more of course, I’ve heard Grande Mountain is a fun place with lots of young people so it might be fun to immerse ourselves in that a bit.”

Grande Mountain is indeed renowned within Cassadaigua for being a ‘fun place’, it is a notorious college town and was the scene of a famous protest that descended into trouble at the local university. It is also a city that sits at a high elevation and this could potentially affect the players a little, with it naturally making for harder breathing, but as with most professional athletes the team will find a way to cope.

New Lakeland is a former Secristani city that was absorbed by Cassadaigua and as such some remnants of Secristani culture remain including the fact that it is the city with the highest level of gender equality in Cassadaigua. It’s also the most capitalist city in the country – something that may be seen as a political move by some conspiracy theorists, what with the long Mytanar history of all things socialist and left-wing. Of course, Ocokoljic dismissed the idea that he’d be getting the tinfoil hats out anytime soon when I mentioned the matter jokingly, a loud laugh and a simple ‘no’ being all I got by way of response.

Something which is not being discussed as a conspiracy theory is the very serious worry that the Cassadagans may have deliberately chosen to make sure that the Mytanar squad would be playing two group games in New Lakeland. The 91,000 seater stadium will have a raucous atmosphere but it also has the highest ticket prices of any of the stadiums due to the fact it is ultra-modern and state of the art.

This is seen by some as a deliberately exclusionary policy as the Mytanar economy is still recovering from years of uncertainty caused by civil war and recession and the knowledge that Mytanar fans would be attending and (potentially) causing issues, may have motivated the Cassadagans to ensure that as few as possible would actually be able to attend the games in New Lakeland (as they cannot afford the high ticket prices), and therefore discourage them from travelling altogether.

Of course, not being able to get in the stadium has never prevented Mytanars from travelling and causing problems before: for Citiz, Polarian, Astograthian and numerous other police services. Some worry that this measure may be seen as deliberately inflammatory and cause ultras groups to travel in even greater numbers and cause significant issues outside stadiums in retaliation. When I put this to Ocokoljic he was characteristically measured:

“I’m not so sure the Cassadagans would have deliberately done this, they probably always had a plan that Group 6 would play fixtures in Grande Mountain and New Lakeland, so I don’t think people saying that this was something they’ve done on purpose to potentially prevent trouble is true. Having said that though they surely could have looked at it after the group draw to try and make the tournament as accessible as possible and potentially have moved our games to somewhere cheaper or maybe had a standardised ticket pricing system in order to avoid this issue where Mytanar supporters may be unable to travel because of excessively high prices. The fans make the sport and it’s important that they should be there.”

“And what about potential for trouble involving Mytanar fans?”

“Obviously we have a terrible reputation for violence and vandalism and all the rest of it and I sincerely hope that we don’t worsen that reputation in this tournament and that they just enjoy the football. I hope that ultras groups and hooligans do not attack normal people especially because that is nothing more than picking on those who have no interest in that sort of thing, it’s basically bullying and shameful for the people involved and Mytannion as a whole.” He said, “If anything I want our fans to show Rushmore how warm and passionate for this sport that we are and try to change the reputation we have because we have the best fans in world football never mind Rushmore so if they can show the good side of our support that would be great because the reputation we have is not good and actually unrepresentative of the large majority of supporters.”

We finally get around to discussing Mytannion’s opponents in the group stage, the team have been drawn against Eastfield Lodge, Pridnestrovia and Kalosia and for most commentators this represents an excellent opportunity for progression and for some an eminently winnable group, although that may be a little too optimistic given the fact we were eliminated in the group stage last time around. However, Ocokoljic feels that’s exactly how we have to approach things:

“We have to be optimistic. There is no point coming to this tournament with a feeling that we’re going to do anything other than win it – or what is the point being here? No Mytanar team has ever gone to a tournament hoping just to do okay or get to a certain point. Of course, there are better squads that ours, that’s for certain – but we believe in our qualities and the gaffer has us playing in a system that suits our strengths and will allow us the best chance of advancing from the group. If we get out of the group then it is knockout football and everybody knows that anything can happen then.”

“Do you have any particular thoughts on the teams we’ll be playing?”

“It’s hard to say, obviously Eastfield Lodge are the top ranked team in our group on paper but I can’t help but feel Pridnestrovia are a dangerous side to play against. They have a really strong set of players and I feel like they could end up going far in this tournament. They were runners-up last time after all and they will want to go one better this time. I don’t know too much about Kalosia if I’m honest, but the coaches have planned for us to watch a lot of tapes before each game so that we know a bit more about our opposition and so that we go into each game as prepared as we possibly can be.”

“Do you have any predictions for the tournament, a winner?”

“Us.” He said without missing a beat, then smiling. “We have to have confidence. We all have our own individual targets and if we can meet them then there’s no reason we can’t have an excellent tournament. Of course, the big sides will once again be there or thereabouts: the Valladars, Pasargans, Eurans et cetera. I think Nephara could have a really good tournament also.”

“And is there anybody in particular you would like to play at some point?”

“I think for historical reasons any game against the Eurans or Sargossans could be enormous, same with the Valladars too I guess. But hey every game in a Copa Rushmori is effectively a big game and there’s some degree of rivalry there. It’d be nice to challenge myself against the best teams, a game against Nephara would be good for that reason, I admire a lot of their players and Estrella Hawke is someone who I like to watch and to prove myself against – striker versus striker. But like I say, there’s not really any particular game I’d like to happen – we just have to take each game as it comes as they’re all important in this competition.”

And with that, my interview with Jezdimir Ocokoljic, the young starlet of the Mytanar team came to a close. He was patient and answered my questions thoughtfully and honestly and his passion for the game, his maturity and intelligence shone through. He’s a thoroughly modern young footballer, who recognises the fact that football can affect more than just the sport itself and be used for a force for good outside the game. A means of uniting people.

Many a footballer would not want to give opinions about things such as politics, history or the potential for foul play to ensure Mytanar fans cannot attend games but Ocokoljic was more than happy to comment on all of the above and what’s more his way of thinking and explanations are measured and even if you disagree with what he says you can find the way in which he puts across his points to be refreshing and agreeable in itself.

The hopes of the Mytanar team are on all 23 players in that squad, but the 20 year old’s ability means a degree of pressure is on him to perform in the hope that the squad can be as successful as possible. The way he talks about pressure as being a privilege and of the Mytanar team coming to win may be seen as some as nothing but good soundbites to impress the media but when interviewing him you can see the steely confidence in his eyes borne of a tough upbringing in Tsrvena that demonstrates he truly believes what he is saying – and whatever you do, do not mistake that confidence for cockiness. Ocokoljic is as grounded as they come, also a product of being a normal kid from Tsrvena.

A normal kid from Tsrvena who could announce himself to the world in this tournament.

(OOC: little bit of RP fodder for anyone who wants to have a pop at Mytanars for playing the victim with regard to where Cass has us ICly playing games there).

by **Ceni** » Fri Jul 13, 2018 5:00 pm

Goalkeepers
Juan Pablo MORALES - 29 - GK -

Brinemouth
Ryan NAVIR - 32 - GK -

Eastern Stars
Joshua KOSOKHAN - 25 - GK -

Tir Snake Strike
Leo GLASVYRN - 18 - GK -

New Oxford Nucleus

Defenders
Liam LORECHIAN - 30 - CB -

Phalanx AF
Ariana GURI-MONTAGUE - 25 - CB -

Olympic Nassau Bay
Miri WINDTIDE - 28 - CB -

Eastern Stars
Evan TURICH-ALBERTSON - 33 - LB -

Tir Snake Strike
Justin MORROGHANY - 33 - RB -

Royal Queenstown
Zarel SONTEBREN - 21 - CB -

Royal Queenstown
Felix FARTHEN - 21 - CB -

Somer City and Surrounds

Midfielders
Allison SWAN - 31 - CM -

Crisisbless
Jasper VALARAN - 30 - CM -

Lammerton
Avi RENNING - 21 - CM -

Port Sebastian
Nova KYMERI - 25 - DM -

Brinemouth
Sofia FALCÓN - 27 - CM -

Zoloroni City
Zane KIRCHNER - 17 - CM -

Strat City
Petro VALLES - 31 - DM -

North Hall

Attacking Midfielders
Adrián del TORO - 29 - (R)AM -

Ramusok United
Marc-André ONASI - 27 - (L)AM -

Handon United
Asher KOROMIN - 23 - (L)AM -

Cenial United
Marco SANTA ORIA - (R)AM -

Lexington Victory

Strikers
Andrew ARROWSWORD - 28 - ST -

Real Azuris
Ben LORENNION - 28 - ST -

Golden Eagles
Iain CYN-PENZAG - 23 - ST -

Zoloroni City
Sascha FALKENRATH - 23 - ST -

Willox Street Pirates
Cesár CORVALÁN - 26 -

Starling

Coaching Staff
Head Manager -

Luke Longstar
Assistant Manager -

Aran Xibalma
Defensive Coach -

Coben Jerfel
Offensive Coach -

Megara Keler
Goalkeeping Coach -

Sam Koresjor

Style & RP Permissions
Style: +3.167
RP Permissions: I'm usually OK with anything, except NO KILLING (of players or fans or Cenian citizens in my country) or career-ending injuries. I decide severity of injuries.

Starting Lineup (Copa Rushmori XXX)

Football History

Football in Ceni has only recently began to take off in popularity. Even though football has been present in Ceni for a good majority of the time that it has been settled, other sports, mainly tennis, badminton, and squash, held precedence in Cenian sporting life. For the most part, society gave football barely a passing glance as Ceni built its dominance in tennis. As the popularity of football grew in the last decade, however, pressure grew for the Cenian government to create a national team and send it to compete with the world's best. First, however, it would play in the 54th Baptism of Fire against other nations new to international football. In what was perhaps an ill omen for the rest of Ceni's international football campaigns, the Sarian, later to reach the final, crushed Ceni. In the group stage, Ceni barely managed one win before qualifying for the playoffs on goal difference, where they defeated Bonny in only their second win of the tournament, winning the opportunity to face eventual champion Buyan in the Round of 16. Although Ceni played valiantly, Buyan won, 1-0, in a not-surprising scoreline.

After its poor showing in the Baptism of Fire, Ceni embarked on its first World Cup qualification campaign. Not many people payed attention, and the team, led by Pablito Numede, managed to scrape up a few points before going home in ignominy. If one could say that Ceni's first qualification campaign was a three-year-old's small beach bucket, Ceni's second campaign barely made a drop in that bucket. The short description: nobody really cared. Sure, maybe some people were disappointed by the team's quite awful performance, but the general populace shrugged. In World Cup 69, Ceni finally started caring about its World Cup qualification prospects. Unsurprisingly, they weren't good. Although Ceni did manage to secure draws against Felix and Chiata, and a win against the then-twenty-ninth-ranked Super-Llamaland, it was not enough to make even a small dent in the large wall separating Ceni from World Cup qualification. In World Cup 70, Ceni had a real chance at qualifying. Despite falling 2-9 down to Audioslavia, Ceni notched a win against the second seed Neu Engollon to get a chance to defeat Electrum in a last-match day decider at home. Apparently the gods of fate were not smiling on the Cenian team, for the team fell by one goal, ending hopes of a playoff spot and World Cup qualification. Ceni's prospects had come so close, yet they were as far away as ever. At the Cup of Harmony, Ceni defeated Neu Engollon again, and shockingly defeated world number 9 and eventual champion Turori, ending a losing slide against the top 10. However, Ceni could not end its losing slide against Electrum, whom they faced in the Round of 16, losing for the third time in a row.

Ceni came back yet again for World Cup 71. It started disappointingly, with a loss to Zenic and a draw to the hitherto-unknown Octinstine courtesy of an Alliance for Cenian Future ploy. After that, Ceni won against second seed Barunia. On paper, the second half of qualification should have been good enough: four wins, one against top seed Blouman Empire, and three draws. Unfortunately, the draws were against Zenic at home and against the minnow Aynard, ranked in the three hundreds, and they sealed Ceni's doom. Soothsayers and gamblers who bet on Ceni's failure were the only ones celebrating. Without the disappointing draws to the bottom of the group, Ceni would have made the playoff spot; with five more points against Zenic, Ceni would have qualified outright. Alas, the gods of fate had conspired against Ceni once again, and Ceni would move to the Cup of Harmony at home. It performed decently. Despite draws to Kazamatsuri and Matthewsiana in the group stage, Ceni managed to advance to the Round of 16, where it defeated Darvale to reach the quarterfinals and Mizuyuki on penalties to reach the semifinals. It lost to Valanora, hardly surprising, and Saintland in the third place match, but Ceni finally had made somewhat of a mark in international football. It felt it was ready to qualify.

However, the dream did not come to fruition. In World Cup 72 qualification, the team lost to Barunia, a team it had beaten in World Cup 71, on the first match day and drew the 279th ranked Welcomzia. It then lost to the successor of Mizuyuki, Kirisaki, and drew with the 100th ranked side Vermark. Ceni's losses and disappointments kept coming, losing to minnows Emperor Pudu and Atrua. While the draws against Aynard and Octinstine were disturbing at best and heartbreaking at worst, Cenian supporters were crushed by their spell of bad luck during World Cup 72. A target for their fury was manager Osman Ibarra, who was sacked by the Cenian Football Federation, and replaced by Kirk Koromin, father of star Kel Koromin and manager of Tir Snake Strike, Ceni's best club. The switch seemed to have improved morale by a bit, as the team got revenge on Welcomzia, Vermark, and Atrua (all by the score of 3-2) and drew Kirisaki. However, it was not enough, as the pesky Emperor Pudu managed to defeat Ceni, and Ceni did not qualify, with a low take of 18 points. Surprisingly, however, Ceni improved one spot in the rankings, to forty-fourth. At this seemingly happy news, however, Cenian officials rued that they could have advanced into the top 40 with a better performance. It came to the Cup of Harmony facing an identity crisis and a crisis of leadership. However, its Cup of Harmony - a let's see our problems run for new coach Kirk Koromin - did not work out so well, with a loss to Barunia in the Group Stage as well as a heartbreaking penalty kick defeat to Chiata in the Round of 16. Ceni came to the World Cup cautiously optimistic and hoped that it would finally qualify on its seventh attempt.

Finally Ceni achieved their goal in World Cup 73 on their seventh attempt. Led by Jaime del Olmo and Kel Koromin, the team once again fell to the Opening Match Curse, suffering a defeat to Matthewsiania away, but rebounded after that, only losing once thereafter. Among notable games were the 6-6 draw with Free Republics and the 2-1 win away against HopNation. The World Cup also marked the debut of manager Kirk Koromin in World Cup qualifiers and the Cenial Halcyon National Stadium, at which the national team has never lost. The team was second in their group and drew Gregoryisgodistan, which they beat on a penalty shootout at home with a maxed-out crowd of cheering fans. Finally Ceni had made it to the World Cup, where they lost to regional rivals Eura and Cosumar before beating (guess who) Free Republics for their first ever World Cup win on their first try. Ceni directly qualified for World Cup 74, winning its group, including two wins over top seed Northern Sunrise Islands. They entered the World Cup hopeful, drawing with Apox before losing to hosts San Jose Guayabal. They were confident against Gregoryisgodistan, with a place in the round of 16 on the line. They knew they could win the match - yet they managed to lose somehow, one to nil, denying them a chance in the second round and disappointing many. In World Cup 75, the qualifiers went through in a breeze, with the team going 13-1-0 in their best qualifying run in their history. In the World Cup Finals, however, they could not break their streak of group stage finishes, drawing with Barunia 0-0 and with Pasarga 2-2 but disappointingly drawing 0-0 with Ficiscia to deny them a spot in the knockout rounds yet again. In World Cup 76, the team was hoping to finally go deep in the World Cup, and they reached their first knockout round in the team's history, after defeating bogeyman Ficiscia 5-2 and World Cup veteran Osarius 3-2. In the octofinals, they defeated #2 seed Valladares 5-2 before proceeding to lose 4-1 to San Jose Guayabal in the quarterfinals. Although it was a disappointing finish, at least the team managed their best World Cup performance ever, and they were hoping to capitalize on that performance in San Jose Guayabal and Quebec. Despite their hopes and dreams, though, they were not able to; although they rampaged through their qualifying group, in their World Cup group stage, they choked to Anglatia and therefore failed to advance.

In the next cycle, they did not even qualify for the World Cup itself after squandering a 6-point lead in the first half of qualifiers by drawing with (and losing to) a succession of lower-ranked teams before a draw with Turori basically sealed their fate. They entered the Cup of Harmony knowing they were be the tournament's second seed, and hoping they could win it all to make up for their failure in the World Cup... And they didn't, crashing out to the third pot team of Aggrey-Fynn Land in the Round of 16, promptly firing manager Elidyr Lyndainium and replacing him with 1860 Azoth coach Luke Longstar, fresh off his heels from winning a Terranean League title. Longstar won a series of important friendlies and decided to enter the team's first Copa Rushmori, fielding an experimental lineup to gauge his players' depth. There, the team made it to the semifinals before being crushed by the likes of Eura and Pasarga. Hoping that a home soil World Cup will finally lead to the success they deserve, the team reached the quarterfinals, defeating Nephara on penalty kicks before losing to Farfadillis in the same fashion.

About Ceni

Ceni is a small island country of around 5500 km2 located in the eastern parts of the Rushmori region of Terranea. Although it has no land borders, the nearest countries are Electrum, from which it is separated in the west by a narrow strait, and the Isles of Avon, a small republic located to the east in the same island chain. With a population of just over 13 million, this makes Ceni one of the densest countries in Rushmore, at around 2360 people per sq km. Ceni is also one of the most urbanized countries in Rushmore, with the three major cities, Cenial, the capital, City Centre, and New Oxford, forming one large urban agglomeration, with the city petering out around the edges of the metropolis. Climate-wise, Ceni has a temperate oceanic climate, with the influence of the ocean helping to moderate both the summers and the winters - temperatures are almost never extreme either way, cold or hot.

Historically, Ceni was first settled by a group of people, ancestors of the Fererldan, who spoke a language, Ancient Cenian, that is almost extinct except for a few speakers (but it survives in many Cenian names, both surnames and given names), which is related to modern day Avaerilonian (the prevailing theory suggests that these people migrated from an area in New Gelderland, across a land bridge to Ceni, and then across to Avaerilon, where they settled later in time). The name Ceni itself comes from a corruption of an Ancient Cenian word for 'White Cliffs', which described the cliffs near the present day Dover. These people stayed in the area around Cenial for a while until a group of settlers from Eura arrived and settled in the southern half of Ceni, displacing some of these populations. A Spanish population from Valladares arrived and set up a colony in the north of Ceni, hoping to set up a port for the growing nation, but when the city of Junin was settled, these settlers were disappointed, nonetheless deciding to stay and send seafood to the Valladar communities as well as lobbying the government to set up a port in the north. These communities formed the backbone of a thriving Hispanic population in Ceni.

In the face of a rising Euran threat, these various colonies - the Fereldic population, the Spanish in the North, and Euran/Cenian mix in the South - decided to unify their solitary island in order to coordinate their defenses and reduce infighting. As the Euran threat died down, the Cenian government retooled its economy to provide services and goods to the growing Euran industrial economy while still remaining a bit on edge. As the economy bloomed, a group of Avaerilonian refugees settled in Ceni after escaping one of that country's long wars, establishing a Cenian tradition. These refugees contributed to Ceni's rising high-tech and service economy as the country moved into the 21st century.

Ceni's government is a parliamentary system with a one-chambered parliament, the Cenian Assembly, which has 225 representatives in it; the Prime Minister is the head of government, while a ceremonial President is the head of state. More locally, Ceni is divided into 14 districts, which serve to administer most of the government's services to the people and giving them local control, with a Chief Minister heading the government in each district; most districts have a District Council of either 7 or 9 councilpersons, headed by the Chief Minister. The Cenian people love their elections, with more than 80% turnout most times. Economically, Ceni has a large financial sector along with large pharmaceutical, high-tech, education, real estate sectors, and renewable energy sector. Ceni has a large GDP due to its proximity to Eura and the Euran economy and also a large GDP per capita, one of the largest in the region. Cenians enjoy a high standard of living as well as a large social welfare net and free education, courtesy of a Scandinavian-style liberal government.

by **Cassadaigua** » Fri Jul 13, 2018 5:06 pm

Will starting on Friday the 13th be a good omen or a bad omen for your team?
Find out after this cutoff!

(Qusmo's roster noticed in time, roster bonus is applied prior to MD1 scorination)

Group 1
Valladares 1–0 Qusmo
Savojarna 3–2 East Neutralia

  Group 1                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Savojarna                1   1  0  0    3   2  +1    3
2 Valladares               1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 East Neutralia           1   0  0  1    2   3  −1    0
4 Qusmo                    1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0

Group 2
Pasarga 5–2 Mapletish
Taeshan 0–0 Sarrbia

  Group 2                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pasarga                  1   1  0  0    5   2  +3    3
2 Sarrbia                  1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  Taeshan                  1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
4 Mapletish                1   0  0  1    2   5  −3    0

Group 3
Ceni 3–2 St Trinians
Olastor 0–0 Yuezhou

  Group 3                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Ceni                     1   1  0  0    3   2  +1    3
2 Olastor                  1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  Yuezhou                  1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
4 St Trinians              1   0  0  1    2   3  −1    0

Group 4
Eura 0–0 Crystalline Caverns
Darmen 3–3 Cassadaigua

  Group 4                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Cassadaigua              1   0  1  0    3   3   0    1
  Darmen                   1   0  1  0    3   3   0    1
3 Crystalline Caverns      1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  Eura                     1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1

Group 5
Nephara 3–0 Rou Scotan
Sargossa 5–2 Thibaea

  Group 5                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sargossa                 1   1  0  0    5   2  +3    3
2 Nephara                  1   1  0  0    3   0  +3    3
3 Thibaea                  1   0  0  1    2   5  −3    0
4 Rou Scotan               1   0  0  1    0   3  −3    0

Group 6
Eastfield Lodge 0–0 Kalosia
Pridnestrovia 3–2 Mytanar Region

  Group 6                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pridnestrovia            1   1  0  0    3   2  +1    3
2 Eastfield Lodge          1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  Kalosia                  1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
4 Mytanar Region           1   0  0  1    2   3  −1    0

by **Qusmo** » Fri Jul 13, 2018 5:07 pm

Qusmo National Team prepares for Copa Rushmori debut

Ahead of Qusmo’s debut in Copa Rushmori XXX, national team manager Avarn-Oxolt Ban has released the twenty-five player roster for Qusmo’s debut in the Copa Rushmori.

“Qusmo’s first game in this thirtieth edition of the Copa Rushmori will be our thirtieth overall as a national team,” noted Avarn-Oxolt. “It’s also a big one, as we’ll be facing Valladares, the number one-ranked team in the Rushmori standings.”

“Ultimately, we’ll be wanting to get to the Round of Sixteen at a minimum, & the quarterfinals would be a great success for us,” Avarn-Oxolt declared. “We showed the world what we’re capable of at the Cup of Harmony, winning our group & taking our Round of Sixteen match to penalties. Our U21 team showed the world that we’re emerging in a big way, making it to the Di Bradini Cup quarterfinals. Now it’s time to make our debut in the regional sphere. We've only ever played one opponent from our region of Rushmore before: Ceni, the then-seventeenth-ranked nation in the world, in a World Cup Qualifying group in which we were completely unranked. They remain the only opponent to have beaten us twice, so we don't have a great record against fellow Rushmoris yet, but we know that's about to change. We’re excited & confident that this will prove to be a memorable debut.”

The twenty-five-player roster features twenty-four players on the Cup of Harmony roster, with one addition: Yamaj-Blonz Jok, who started all five Di Bradini Cup matches for Qusmo in centre midfield, took a spot from Milor-Yunal Pul.

 № Player         (Pos)     Caps   Starts    Goals

 1 Vanza-Jerat Gep (GK)       15       15        0
12 Xynat-Evela Cuf (GK)       11       10        0
25 Pilta-Jerat Zev (GK)        1        1        0

 2 Cunix-Betva Tla (CB)       25       25        0
 3 Ozolx-Alfan Ixi (CB)       20       17        1
 4 Zenon-Gerol Kal (CB)       21       20        0
13 Raxat-Trenj Val (CB)        3        1        0
14 Yelto-Alfan Ono (CB)       16       12        0
15 Karar-Nirlo Hus (LB)       11        4        1
16 Nirlo-Betva Uzo (RB)       11        3        0

 5 Yunal-Julad Waz (DM)       24       24        1
 6 Ilinx-Kepex Zev (CM)       27       27        4
 7 Ilinx-Vulav Ixi (AM)       24       24        2
 8 Kynda-Sevet Pec (LM)       23       23        1
 9 Forzu-Ralox Kal (RM)       22       22        0
17 Dwada-Dalox Wek (DM)        6        1        0
18 Yamaj-Blonz Jok (CM)        4        2        0
19 Helek-Nenzi Ono (LM)        4        1        0
20 Ilinx-Iblix Tla (RM)       10        3        1

10 Rilan-Jerat Nev (ST)       23       21        8
11 Xilit-Zaxac Yol (ST)       25       25       12
21 Ozolx-Mazur Guv (LW)       10        2        2
22 Jralv-Nexev Pec (RW)        9        2        0
23 Paliv-Xilit Max (SS)        9        5        2
24 Prant-Pertz Gor (ST)       10        3        3

Special Roles
Formation: 3 - 5 - 2
Manager: Avarn-Oxolt Ban (66 y.o.)
Captain: Ilinx-Kepex Zev
Corners: Ilinx-Vulav Ixi
Free Kicks: Xilit-Zaxac Yol
Penalties: Xilit-Zaxac Yol

Technical Details Box
Style Modifier: -2
I give my opponent permission to...
Choose my goalscorers; but
Please please be reasonable when...
Injuring my players; or
Showing my players cards; &
Please TG me before...
Godmodding.
Feel free to TG me if you have any questions or ideas.

Kit information from a prepared statement from Fuzpon Qusma in lieu of an actual image
"Our home kit will be in our national colours, red & gold. Emblematic of our national flag, a thick two-colour sash will run from the right shoulder down to the left hip, both front & back. The top sash colour will be gold, & the bottom sash colour will be red. Above the sash will be a red field, while below the sash will be a gold field. Our shorts will be red & our socks will be gold. On the back, we will have a large red circle outlined in gold to recall our flag, break the sash, & allow clearer kit numbers, which will be printed in gold, just like the sun on our flag. Highlights throughout the kit will be gold. Our clash kit will be white with the full, uninterrupted, two-colour sash on front & back. We will have black numbers & red highlights, complemented by the same red shorts & gold socks. Our goalkeepers' kits will be black with the sash on the front side only, with white numbers, gold highlights, black shorts, & black socks. We believe that these kits are not only striking, but will represent our country well internationally. We are proud to represent Qusmo, & we eagerly look forward to the matches ahead."

by **Mapletish** » Sat Jul 14, 2018 3:47 am

OOC: Trying my hands on writing short stories, and this is certainly inspired by the American Sniper
Part 1|Part 2| Part 3| Part 4| Part 5

The Forgotten War - Deployed

With the weapons facility secured and blown up, we thought we would have dealt a large blow to the resources of the Revolutionists. We got into our vehicles and hit the road, this time round racing and patrolling on the Jubba River. This river was key to many of the fertile farmlands around it and flows out south to the Indian Ocean. Knowing its significance, our job was to look out for any armed boats in the area and to destroy any enemy forces in the villages near it. The magnitude and strength of the Revolutionists were not to be underestimated. They were an army of their own, with missile launchers, missiles, artillery pieces and armour vehicles even, and they proved to be formidable opponents.

We would find an old boat shed that was abandoned by some of the villagers one day, and we set up an observation post there. Our rules of engagement were simple, see anyone, male, 16-65, carrying a weapon, shoot them. Although that was not the official instructions, but that was roughly it since they were bound to be shooting at us anyway. However, we were very much more cautious on this one. Overlooking the other side of our observation post is a small village believed to be a temporary residence of the Revolutionists. We had first wanted to sweep the village and destroyed everything we saw, but we took it cautiously. Every night, someone on the other side of the river would stand up and take a shot at us. But our orders were simple, do not fire.

It was frustrating to see and to be in that situation. You have someone shooting you every now and then and the only thing you can do is duck and hide in cover. The answer from Chief was simple, "No, do not engage." Looking at it, it was logical, the enemy was probably trying to suck us into a fight which they could win by a clear margin. Who knows how many artillery weapons have they got, pointed at us. They could have wiped us out in any instance if we get suck into a fight. Of course, it was natural that we wanted to fight them on. They were not sending boats our way, only firing a few shots and then ducking, waiting for our response. We took turns to keep watch on them, monitored the radio and watched the water. Finally, we were relieved by another team of SOF and headed back to base.

Back into the base, it was even worse. We didn't see much action as we have yearned for. It was frustrating to wait and even more frustrating to hear that we might be relieved from duty soon and relieved by another team from back home. We would go on to hear that the Revolutionists would have gone on to harm innocent civilians in their advances. That snapped many of us. The missiles that they had smuggled into the country, struck a town centre and there goes, everyone within the strike radius was dead in a single blast. We would eventually see some action as we joined the Army in the conflict in Baidoa. Baidoa happened to be one of the Revolutionists' areas and we got right into the heat of the fighting. Having the Army leading the way and clearing the area out and keep the area under control, the SOF would only take part in certain operations and our main take on this was to kill the Area Commander leading the Revolutionists in the area.

The Army is pretty tough and with the amount of training that they have been through in large scale missions, they were rather composed and sometimes are rather gung-ho but it would depend on the units that you are working with. Some units perform superbly while others are just average. We were inserted in the desert at night and we would go on our scouting drives. The desert was vast but there was always small towns and cities hanging around. Our main objective during these patrols were to find out and observe the enemy strongholds and also to map out where they were on the ground. I swear an air recon could have been better but as we go on down, we are able to get on the ground information which was rather crucial to plan missions. Arriving ahead of the main task force, we also observed what weapons the enemy was using and some of the systems they have with them. We would then get back the message back to base and it was up to the main task force, whether or not they want to engage.

That day, we made one significant contact with the enemy. We were observing a city and we probably have gotten too closed and we got fired at, and of course we fired back. We must have traveled a few hundred kilometres that day and we laid up for awhile in the late afternoon, got some rest, gathered the intel and to take off once again after night fall. Of course, attracting fire and getting causalities was not part of our mission but which force member would want to end up dead. The headquarters back at the base had their doubts whether we would be able to deliver a successful mission if we were getting shot at. The Chief, as calm as he has always been. "If we are completing our mission and delivering mission success without any casualties, we should be allowed the chance to complete our mission at the very least," as he spoke via radio back to base. He earned us more time out in the desert as a result and sure enough, we completed our mission without a hitch and without causalities, despite being engaged on quite a few times. We reported back to base after that week confidently, handing in a "Mission Success" mission report much to the surprise of the Commanding Officer who at first thought that it was too dangerous for us because we were getting engaged on or might get engaged on for our mission on many occasions.

We were pretty thankful that our Chief had stood up for us and we achieved mission success. It's a sort of thing that if it has to be explained, you're not going to understand. It's the same way for athletes: an athlete wants to be in a big game, wants to compete on the field or in the ring. Another part of this all would be patriotism.

One night a little later on, we were in an exhausting firefight. Ten of us spent roughly two days in an old abandoned brick building, fighting in the 36 degree centigrade heat, wearing full armour. Bullets came flying in, demolishing the walls all around us and it went on non stop. The dust and sand and what not filled the air, making it hard to breathe. The noise of the firefight was deafening and it didn't stop. It kept coming and the only break that we could gave ourselves was to stop and reload. But it was a risky move as well, if we didn't keep shooting we could have been dead.

Finally, as the sun came out in the morning, the sound of gunfire and bullets stopped. The fight was over and everything grew to a complete stop for a moment. The Army came over to relief us and they found every man in the floor, either leaning against a wall or just collapsed on the floor, dressing their wounds, resting or just soaking in the situation. It was battle weariness. It was exhausting and that was battle drained. One of the Army guys outside took out the Maplish flag and hoisted it over the pole. The National Anthem played out and the music filled the air. Everyone rose and saluted the flag as the words of the anthem played through the air. It was a reminder of what we had been fighting for, that very nation that was worth its significance in our blood and sweat.

As men of the Union, I took to the belief of, "Only ourselves are capable of defending our land." Maybe it was the culture and tradition in Mapletish but we were all taught to respect the flag and the anthem. No one talks during the anthem and those people with caps and hats take them off. It was that patriotism and symbolism that we have grown up to be used to. For myself and the SOF force members, patriotism and the heat of the battle were deeply connected. But how the unit fights depends a lot on the leadership of the officers who lead the units. Most of the SOF forces are good, tough individuals and are more than willing to take risks. These high risk maneuvers contributed to the high mission success rates but of course in a war, there will be casualties. It was only realistic because of the risks involved in these combat situations.

We have supported the Army in many of the their missions and helped to soften the targets for them, killing off as many of the enemies that we could and helping to gather intel through the scouting of the areas which is part of the bigger part of the Army's drive to reduce the Revolutionists' presence in Somalia.

The Revolutionists were no easy pushover. With weaponry and equipment on their side, their manpower were well trained. They could certainly kill people and they didn't worry about rules of engagement or court martial. If they had the advantage, they would do everything and anything to win their battles. They were brutal that was to be said. In one of our raids in their strong holds, they had violently suppressed any opposition to their rule over the town. Civilians beaten up, hung onto poles and beaten and paraded in public. The end result were psychologically scarring, the people couldn't trust us, even as the Army sent in medical supplies, food and water supplies after driving the Revolutionists out. The Army attempted to send in soldiers who spoke their language to connect bridge the gap between the troops and the locals and to help rebuild the town which will eventually stand up against the Revolutionists. In the Hearts and Minds program that was devised by the Army, they attempted to win over the local populace through good governance and genuine care and concern for the residents in the places that they have liberated from the Revolutionists.

We continued working with the Army as they continued their march and liberating the towns while seemingly trying to wipe the Revolutionists out of their strong holds. It wasn't easy as they would put up strong resistance and would continue small scale attacks even after the towns have been liberated, bringing destruction to anything in their paths. This was a terrible image portrayed considering they had too, wanted to win the hearts of the local populace in their push towards attacking the Maplish state and to destroy the sovereignty of the Maplish state. Quite the wrong strategy, if you want to win the hearts of the people right?

Our missions would typically take us out ahead of the Army's advances, scouting for knots of defenders and gathering intel. All sixteen of us in the platoon will work together.

We pulled up at one of the small building compound at the edge of a town. We took fire once we were there and we returned fire.

The firefight quickly ratcheted up and within a few minutes we realised we were surrounded by the enemy who had anticipated our arrival and were able to come up with an encircling strategy before we made our arrival. Our escape was cut off by a few hundreds of the Revolutionists.

We starting killing a whole lot of them. They looked like they were replaced, one after another as we shot at them. This went on for hours and for hours , with the fighting shifting around in waves, and the victory metre shifting in our favour and then their's as we tried to outfire and outpower each other. The loser would be the one who runs out of men or firepower. It shouldn't be us, that was what we hope.

The fight continued in many waves all through the night that we were there. They weren't quitting anytime soon since they have outnumbered us by many men to one. They have the firepower and supplies to continue on and on and the most important of all, they had blocked our escape routes and we were encircled by them. Little by little, bit by bit, they inched closer to our positions until it became obvious that they were certainly going to overrun us.

We shouldn't die just yet, I thought to myself. As the fight grew closer, I was all ready to fight hand to hand, I'm not going to give this up and I never will. My platoon mates had the same mentality as they tried to fire their way out and they looked to be ready to switch to their small arms and went out for hand to hand if it was necessary. I thought, what if they charged at us, are we going to be react. I kept that thought at the back of my head however as I focused on the task at hand.

We probably only had five minutes to live before our heads get blown off or we would probably be captured and be made prisoners. Our radio squeaked with a transmission, "We're coming up on your twelve."

"Engage, engage, engage"

Friendlies and reinforcements reached our position and the Army was right there to reinforce us.

Thank God!

They were finally there, as we all heaved a sigh of relief in our minds and continued to fight our way out.

We would continue to work with the Army for a little while in Baidoa, getting our sections to patrol and to wipe out the Revolutionists in those sections. The Army appreciated the effort that we had put in and had some of the guys send us off as we board the plane back on our rotation schedule as we get relieved by the next Team which came over and took our positions in Somalia.

Dana

If there was anything, Viktor was disgusted with the state of affairs back home. In the car on the way back to our house, we listened to the radio. People weren't talking about the war, life went on as usual as if nothing was happening in Somalia.

"People are talking about anything but we're here fighting for the survival of the Maplish state," he would say, "Are the Revolutionists so far away from the homeland that people don't give a shit about it? They are literally in the North of us, in Somalia. If they had their means, our country could be invaded. Invaded."

I had to remind him that there were many people who cared, not just the troops who fought the war with him but the people back home. They were supportive of their efforts in Somalia. He had me, he had friends and family.

The adjustment for someone off a warzone is tough, if not difficult. He'd wake up jumpy, anxious, punching something in the middle of the night. I'd stop and comfort him before getting back into bed again. I had to wake him up and told him that it was alright to ensure that I wouldn't get hit by his basic reflexes. The mind of someone so stuck up in conflict is kind of damaging and he always in the state of conflict that his instincts were all right up to kill.

One day, I woke up to him grabbing my arms, he might have been shocked, I have got no idea, but I comforted him, called his name out and he slowly let go. I was thankful he didn't break my arm.

We live with the new habits and slowly adjusted to them, that would be the least that we could do and as a spouse, being accommodating to his needs.

Returning home from deployment, I was glad that I was given the well deserved break to shift my mind away from combat. The constant sounds of battle and the gunshots could have easily messed with all of us. Flashbacks are a common occurrence but I managed it well by not thinking too much about my time in Somalia, just trying to get some time alone, breathing in the fresh air back home and just keeping myself busy.

I would talk to Dana the entire day when she was free and she would listen patiently. The stories although not the most interesting for her, was just enough for her to understand what I was going through. She has a different perspective of all of these. She was glad that I'm home in one piece and nothing else really mattered to her.

The scars of conflict stayed with me nonetheless. The slight trigger of the anti-burglary system would get me all worked up. It was killer instinct on. There was once it happened as I was entering the house. I held up a pole and got ready to strike anyone who popped out from the corner. It was Dana and I almost knocked her out. I was lucky that I was quick in holding back my strike, if not she might have a concussion. We laugh about it every time we came across that topic but still it stayed with me, the scars of conflict, that moments where it will be too close to call, that moment between life and death, the moments that could define whether you end up going home in a coffin or sitting on an airplane seat.

I always seemed more vulnerable at home. After every deployment. I would injure something, maybe my toe, my finger, all sorts of small injuries, usually at home or during training. Overseas, on deployment, in the war, I seemed invincible.

"You take off your superhero cape everytime you come home," Dana used to joke.

After a while, I figured it was indeed true.

My parents had been nervous the entire time I was away on deployment or maybe when I joined the Navy. It was either one of that. They wanted to see me as soon as I touched home and I think my need to give myself some alone time probably worried them even more than they'll say. When we finally get together though, it will be a happy occasion. They are glad to see their son back in one piece, healthy. Despite that, my parents although nervous, do not make it known to me so that I won't worry while I was deployed. They kept stoic but I felt it myself, they were worried and anxious.

I would cut my vacation short and go back from leave a week early to enlist to sniper school. The SOF Sniper School, a notoriously tough place to be in, although you don't get shelled at like BDAC but it was a tough place to be in. It was a chance that I didn't want to forgo and I would have given up much more than that for the chance.

by **Nephara** » Sat Jul 14, 2018 4:11 am

Nephara 3 - 0 Rou Scotan
(4-2-3-1) 12 - Swoboda; 18 - Kielseng, 5 - Konoval (c), 22 - Steelhenge, 19 - Vicelich; 4 - Rowland (23 - Misidjan 76'), 8 - Klein (15 - Rosenthal 70'); 7 - Fanaiyan (13 - Saroszi 81'), 14 - Moxham, 16 - Aspenwood; 17 - Wolff
Goals: Klein 8', Moxham 34', Wolff 79'

Erika Wolff was getting very tired of the phrase 'Cormorants bolter'.
Her form in her first Premiership season was a surprise, somehow, despite being outstanding in the second tier. And when her eye for goal, her hustling, tireless forward play and her physicality, weirdly enough the exact same things Nephara was always looking for in a forward these days, got her called up to Nephara's squad, this was somehow a surprise too. The only surprise to Wolff was that Brandon had waited so long to call her. She'd told him as much, and he'd snorted and called her a little shit, which Wolff decided meant he liked her style.
She'd given about as few fucks when ingratiating herself with the squad, cheerfully informing Estrella Hawke that she was here to replace her, kicking out at Konoval in a particularly bitty training session and making a drunken pass at Regatta Aspenwood's husband at a formal event. She'd also asked Monica Rowland to pass on a message to her father - Keith Rowland had been a model example to Wolff in her formative years, not so much for his all-round forward play as for his give-no-fucks move across Holdenberg. Rowland the younger had coldly declined.
Anyway, now she was here. That was a surprise too, the papers said. Rotation was risky. Leave aside the fact that failure to rest your stars meant certain exhaustion down the line. But Brandon made it clear to them; "each of you has proven yourself to be worthy of the shirt, one of the best 23 players in this nation of dozens of millions. Any of you I pick is better than anyone our opponents can. And each and every one of you has a legitimate chance to fight for your place in the next match. Nothing is ever set in stone."
Music to Wolff's ears.

The match was fairly routine, in the event. At the back, Konoval and Steelhenge were solid as anything, the latter distributing with impressive confidence, and while Andreas Swoboda may not have had the most energetic of matches he looked comfortable between the sticks, distributed well, and even made a sharp save late on to deny Serafin a consolation after Sadowski played him through. By that point it was too late for Rou Scotan, and really it was difficult to see them coming back after half-time. After Wolff drew a foul, hauled down by Zuraw just outside the box, Rusalka Klein - ambitious, driven and confident, just the sort of mild heel that Nephara bred and Wolff respected - curled the ball adroitly into the top corner. And after some amount of pinging around in the box, some time later, the ball bounced favourably for Chimera Moxham who darted around the scrum and lashed a low, hard shot past a stationary Silva. Eloise Kielseng was having an impressive debut, as well, often finding space down the right, interplaying well with Fanaiyan. Wolff wasn't sure to make of Kielseng. The girl was quiet, studious. Hell, Wolff had even heard she was doing some kind of part-time law degree... ?
What a nerd.
But Wolff... well, she had to admit, an hour in, she was just doing Okay. She was putting herself about, getting stuck in, pressing from the front... but there were guys Brandon could've called up from the Second Division capable of that. And she'd had a couple of chances, too. And snatched badly at them. Silva saved well from one after she got played through on goal, but she shouldn't've allowed him a save to make, and a free header on the stroke of half-time went over the bar.
She needed a goal to stamp herself on this match, or it would just be another 6.67/10 performance from a forgettable debutant striker in her mid-20s, both performance and player soon forgotten.
It came.
It wasn't an elegant thing, by any means. Really, it stemmed from a poor, overhit cross from Aspenwood that found precisely nobody... except Fanaiyan on the other flank, who rolled it through to Kielseng, who raced past Rocha before drilling the ball low and hard into the box. Wolff went on inelegant instinct, sacrificing her footing to sweep the ball into the net as she fell inelegantly onto her arse. Silva didn't have a chance.
A great goal? Fuck, no. But her name was on the scoresheet, on her debut. And maybe the assist was a good start for Kielseng, too - and the wiry fullback dashed over, breaking into a larger smile than anyone had ever seen on her, the first to embrace Wolff on the floor.
Yeah. Maybe that was the biggest surprise of all. But, hell - she'd welcome it.

by **Yue Zhou** » Sat Jul 14, 2018 6:37 pm

THE PEOPLE’S FEDERATION OF YUEZHOU - NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM

月州人民联邦 - 国家足球队

After a bright start to their participation in international tournaments, Yuezhou's star has quickly faded - despite the emergence of new stars such as Ruo Xiaolan and Han Xiaowei - and Alex Cartwright, whose contract expires after the Copa Rushmori, has been given an ultimatum - make the quarterfinals, or the Red Dragons will be going in another direction.

Nickname: The Red Dragons
Manager: Alex CARTWRIGHT
Style Modifier: -1.5
Formation

GOALKEEPERS

#23 - RUO Xiaolan - 26 - Cypher Town (NPH)

Ruo Xiaolan is a Wei Haidong-esque, very athletic goalkeeper - as well as, after helping Cypher Town secure promotion to Nephara's top flight, the first female player on the national team. She’s a high-flying shot-stopper who, despite some rawness, has come into her own as a keeper in the Nepharim Premiership - the first professional league she played in. With Ruo or Wu Zhen in net, the future is bright for the Red Dragons defense.

#01 - WEI Haidong - 34 - Nangang Royals
#12 - WU Zhen - 26 - Yincheng Capitals

Former starter Wei’s play is marked by fantastic reflex-saves and great athleticism - but although he’s very vocal off the pitch, he’s not exactly a leader on it, and he does make the occasional gaffe on set-pieces. Last year’s Golden Gloves winner in the Yuezhou Premier League, Wu is an excellent distributor who’s become the nation’s best shot stopper as well. An aggressive, athletic goalkeeper not afraid to come out of his box, Wu has also quietly become a team leader.

DEFENDERS

#17 - FAN Xiaopeng - 32 - Goldstaff City (COS)
#25 - MA Jianke - 30 - Dynamo Dalian
#03 - HAN Ruoyang [C] - 34 - Beian City
#15 - JIN Guiyu - 30 - SC Jiangdong
#14 - LIN Wangming - 25 - Beian City

Interestingly enough, the defense may be the most talented part of this Red Dragons team. After a few solid seasons in the YPL, Fan Xiaopeng seriously broke out with Cosumar’s Goldstaff City, being named as the best leftback in the league and showing off his athleticism and attacking prowess while becoming a defensive anchor. He’s the most talented player in this defense, but center-back and team captain Han Ruoyang is the most important. Not only does he lead the defense - both vocally and by example - but he’s also an athletic playmaker who will drift forwards and punish you if given the opportunity. Han is flanked by two solid center-backs - Ma Jianke of recently-promoted Dynamo Dalian revels in dirty work and is a very strong man-marker and defender, while Jin Guiyu is solid in the air and very versatile. Last but absolutely not least - except in age - talented right-back Lin Wangming has become a major attacking threat for Beian, and his defense has improved enough to win him the final starting spot in the back five.

#13 - LIANG Yufeng - 29 - Yincheng Capitals
#16 - HU Zheng - 33 - Yincheng Capitals
#02 - WANG Wuying - 31 - Olympic Nangang
#24 - WU Jing - 25 - Canterlot Stars (EQS)

A solid assortment of backup options. Wu Jing is a refined, intelligent young right-back, albeit one with less potential and pace than her competition in Lin, and the ambidextrous and versatile Liang Yufeng is more defensive-minded but still very solid. Closer to the middle, the versatile Hu Zheng is a more physical center-back options who could be used to close out a game, and former starter Wang Wuying, despite a poor qualifying campaign that Cartwright determined outweighed his solid league performance, is still a solid backup option at center-back. Somewhat concerningly though, there’s no replacement for captain Han Ruoyang - if he goes down, Yuezhou’s system goes down with him, although Yuezhou have enough serviceable defenders to get by with a more defensive 5-at-the-back formation.

MIDFIELDERS

#21 - WEN Xiaoli - 29 - Lotus Park (BRE)
#18 - HAN Xiaowei - 25 - Nangang Royals
#32 - QUAN Zedong - 30 - Olympic Nangang

Cartwright has raised eyebrows - and potentially done much more in the long run - by centering his midfield around controversial young Wen Xiaoli. A proud member of the Sangau (a questionably-Yue western territory) Nationalist Movement who has been imprisoned several times for his actions as part of the SNM, Wen is nevertheless a brilliant - if still somewhat inconsistent - playmaker and tireless presser who has proven himself worth the trust Cartwright has put in him with brilliant performances both at home and abroad. Playing alongside him is the more direct Quan Zedong - the best player in the YPL two seasons ago, and expected to be more of a #10 to Wen’s deep-lying playmaker. Holding things down for the two attackers will be rising star Han Xiaowei, a defensive midfielder with inhuman lungs and good instincts that is an expert at winning the ball back and sending it to his more creative midfield partners.

#11 - HONG Guilin - 33 - FC Shanbei
#19 - GU Zhalei - 19 - Beian City
#29 - WEI Jiabin - 28 - Beian Rovers

Hong Guilin is a tireless defensive midfielder with an eye for springing counterattacks, but at thirty-three he's not quite as quick as he once was, although he should get plenty of substitutions in for Han when the team is trailing. Young Gu Zhalei, who many thought more deserving than Jayson Herrera for a starting spot at his club, is an energetic young playmaker who idolizes Wen (to the Yue nationalists’ dismay). Last but not least, Wei Jiabin is, in theory, a deep-lying playmaker, but although he’s more than capable of making brilliant passes, it’s not something that happens often for the defensive-minded midfielder - something Cartwright would definitely like to change.

STRIKERS

#10 - FU Xi - 30 - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (BYN)
#9 - JIAWEI Sangu - 37 - Mükiazhou Athletic

The opposite of Qiu Hanying's pessimistic one-striker formation, Alex Cartwright’s attack is fluid, dynamic, and athletic. Fu Xi is a false-nine who has played a leading role in first Yincheng’s and then Viztourzy’s strong seasons, and is known both for his playmaking abilities and for his finishing skills inside the box. On his right is Jiawei Sangu. One of two Mükiazhou-based players on the team, Jiawei has scored 301 goals over 12 seasons in the league and is a complete striker who will play much further inside than former winger and second-choice Guo - at thirty-seven, this will be his last tournament, and he'll just be looking to poach a few goals and not wear himself out.

#07 - GUO Zexi - 30 - Beian City
#18 - XIE Xueyi - 29 - Beian City
#20 - HUANG Shenan - 33 - SC Jiangdong

A solid trio of backups. Guo Zexi, the fastest man on the team, is a very skilled dribbler and passer on either wing who just can’t finish. Xie Xueyi may have questionable decision making at times, but he’s young, talented, and athletic, and will be useful as an impact sub. Finally, returnee Huang Shenan has become a dominant all-around inside forward since his return from injury, and replaces Ren Delan on the side.

RP Permissions: Don't kill/injure for life, TG for approval if you're going to godmod. Everything else is fair game.

by **Sargossa** » Sun Jul 15, 2018 8:55 am

JV: ‘Welcome back to SargoSport 1. It’s been a long wait but it’s back and once again we are your home for live Copa Rushmori action. The speculation, the talk, the hype, it’s all over and now the football can begin. Twenty four of the great and good of Rushmori football have arrived in Cassadaigua to crown the regional champion of this sport. It’s the thirtieth edition of the tournament and we think it’s going to be a good one. Of course every Sargossa match will be here, will be live and you don’t have to miss a second. Right now over on SargoSport 2 we’ve got the other Group 5 fixture, that’s Nephara against debutants Rou Scotan, and on the blue button service there’s your choice of ten other matches. All of Rushmore's finest can be found right here.

‘But now it’s that time. Live from the port city of Starksville, it’s Sargossa versus Thibaea. Sargossa, after a disappointing campaign two years ago looking to lay down a marker for a more successful performance this time around, Thibaea hoping to register their first ever Copa victory. Taking you through all the action it’s Matías Montiel and first Carlos Acuña. Good afternoon gentlemen.’

CA: ‘Good afternoon Javi. Good afternoon everybody. Welcome to Starksville here on the east coast of Cassadaigua. It’s been a beautiful day, the sun has been glinting off the blue water of the bay. It’s not been quite clear enough to see all the way to Sicoutimont, but it’s been a pretty idyllic day. One that the travelling Sargossan fans have been enjoying in this city. It’s a relatively new city, a growing city and one that is currently experiencing an influx of thousands of football fans. There’s a real hubbub and excitement ahead of the big Group 5 clash between Sargossa and Nephara, that seems to be the focus, but there’s still expected to be some fifteen thousand Sargossans here this evening for this fixture against Thibaea. The fans might be already looking beyond this game but I doubt Rodrigo Defederico is doing the same, Matías?’

MM: ‘Absolutely not. Good evening everybody. Rodrigo will have his focus on Thibaea and Thibaea alone. Particularly given what happened two years ago when this same opposition caught Sargossa cold. And we’ve seen it widely reported that their coach Maurice Bonhomme is targeting this fixture. He believes this is the match in which Thibaea get their first regional win. They seem very confident of it. And you can bet Defederico will have an opinion on that. In fact, Bonhomme may have given Defederico’s teamtalk for him.’

CA: ‘You mentioned the previous fixture, that was a 2 – 2 draw in Valladares, a result that saw Sargossa finish bottom of that group. Is that something to be concerned about?’

MM: ‘No, not particularly. That was Rafael Barrios’ side for a start, which played in a very different way. This team is an entirely different beast. This side moves the ball quicker, gets the ball forward much more rapidly and is generally more attack minded than two years ago. If Thibaea are expecting a similar contest they will be in for a shock.’

CA: ‘With Nephara representing the undisputed favourites in this group both these sides will be banking on starting the campaign with three points here. So let’s look at the players who will be trying to do just that. First, Thibaea…’

MM: ‘It’s a 3-4-2-1 or 3-6-1 depending on who you talk to. The emphasis is obviously on flooding the midfield and getting players forward to support lone striker Milhaud. The chief dangers sit directly behind him in the form of the captain Vincent Desjardins and the tricky Alexia Sardou. At the back centreback Valéry Barbet wears the number one shirt, while goalkeeper Chappuis wears two. Which I find faintly unsettling. Clearly this is a side of dangerous radicals.’

CA: ‘How dangerous remains to be seen. Here’s Sargossa…’

MM: ‘There’s been a late change to the expected lineup, with Germán Montero replacing Alfredo Valenzuela on the left. Montero is more a wingback by trade so represents a more defensive option, brought in clearly to help counter a packed Thibaea midfield. We may also see Miguel Marí dropping deeper, into a more conventional number eight position, to add another body into the middle of the park. Alex González will probably focus on the lone striker, leaving Guerrero and Parra to watch for the runs of Sardou and Desjardins. It looks set to be an interesting tactical battle.’

CA: ‘And one we’re looking forward to. Now the teams are out and we are mere moments away from kickoff. But first, it’s time for the national anthems. Starting with the national anthem of Sargossa…’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘… tries his luck! And it takes a massive deflection off Deniau and sails into the stand. Corner to Sargossa, and a decent start for the Corsairs.’

MM: ‘Yes, they’ve looked lively, they’ve been on the front foot and they’ve been at Thibaea from the first whistle. And set pieces are going to play a key part in this campaign. The centrebacks are all big guys. Mayoral too is a six footer. And Cácares, despite being a little shorter, has a tremendous leap on him. I know Raúl Charín has been working hard on the training ground on new routines, they believe set pieces could prove a potent weapon in the arsenal.’

CA: ‘Whipped in by Zevallos and Oh! Right on cue! José Guerrero! The ball was whipped in and the centreback steered the header into the net. What a start for Sargossa. Their Copa campaign is off and running after just six minutes.’

MM: ‘Oh what a good header. The run and jump were timed to perfection and the connection was sublime. He directed it down with power and pace. The keeper actually did well to get a fingertip to it but it was never enough to keep it out. The Thibaea players seem to be indicating a foul on Zoé Cazenave but, looking at the replay, I don’t see anything there. They rose together and Guerrero was just too strong for her.’

CA: ‘Certainly the Darmeni referee is unmoved and the goal definitely stands. It’s one-nil.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Montero this time, with the out-swinger. Away by Barbet. Only as far as ZEVALLOS!! Oh my! What a hit! Where did that come from?! Alonzo Zevallos, on the volley. It flew in.’

MM: ‘What a strike that was! It was one of those moment when you knew, from the moment it left his boot, it was going in. We’re just seeing the replay and if you want to show youngsters the correct technique in executing a volley this is it. It’s beautiful to watch.’

CA: ‘As is the scoreline. It’s two-nil.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘He finds Espina. Forward he comes. They’re backing off him. Espina has a crack . . . oh, it’s gone it! Straight through Évrard Chappuis! Disaster for the goalkeeper. They backed off Sergio Espina, they allowed him the shot. It was low and hard but it was also very central. And somehow it found a way through.’

MM: ‘Oh it can be a cruel game sometimes. You can see on the replay. Just as it reaches Chappuis the ball takes a horrendous bobble which took it past him. So unfortunate. But Espina won’t care.’

CA: ‘No he will not. Nor will the watching fans back home. Sargossa have a three goal lead over Thibaea.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘And that’s the whistle for halftime. A near perfect half for Rodrigo Defederico and his side. How different this is to two years ago. Halftime here in Starksville it’s Sargossa three, Thibaea nil. Back to you in the studio.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Ten minutes into the half and a first change being made by Rodrigo Defederico. And it’s going to be an international debut for the Sporting San Marquez forward Fabián Guzmán. He’s on for Iván Mayoral, so it’s a straight swap up front.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Zevallos. Espina. Back to Zevallos. Inside now to Alejandro Vecino. He slides the ball into the box. It’s Marí! It’s Guzmán! It’s four! What a day for Fabián Guzmán! He’s been on the pitch for ten minutes and he’s got a debut goal.’

MM: ‘That was all about the dummy from Miguel Marí, he took the defender totally out of the equation. But what about the finish? We’ve spoken a lot about Fabián Guzmán leading up to this tournament. About his strength and power. And how he could well be the successor to Iván Mayoral. We never mentioned his technique but that was a really deft finish. It came to him, he met it with the sidefoot and just passed it into the net.’

CA: ‘And he’s probably put Sargossa out of sight. It’s four nil!’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Lovely touch from Sardou. Cuts inside. Then outside. She’s left Zevallos for dead. She plays the ball in. Great ball! And it’s there! The touch from Roselyne Delafosse, the substitute, steered it beyond Ríos. Great play from Sardou and Delafosse gives the travelling Thibaea faithful something to cheer.’

MM: ‘The ball from Sardou was sublime. It was right in that area between goalkeeper and defence that we call the divorce zone. Neither is entirely sure who has responsible and it leads to arguments. Ríos hung back and Delafosse ghosted between Parra and González to get that crucial touch. Great anticipation from her and a just reward too.’

CA: ‘A shake of the head from Defederico in the technical area. He’s not happy. No clean sheet for the Corsairs today. It’s four-one.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Sardou’s corner. Partially cleared. Pinball in the penalty. Now it’s headed away. Lifted back in though by Gachet. And there’s a scramble at the near post! And it’s in! It’s over the line! Desjardins! It’s the captain who’s claiming it. And Sargossa’s players are furious, they’re around the referee. But he points to the centre circle. It’s given.’

MM: ‘They want a foul on Guerrero but, as we see the replay, you can see that both players have got a hold of each other’s shirts, they’re actually dragging each other down. But as the ball spins across it’s Desjardins who has the wherewithal to stick his boot out and send it spinning in at the near post. Possibly questions to be asked about the keeper as well. Arguably they were both fouling each other and the referee has decided he can’t separate them, so the goal is given.’

CA: ‘Yes. And suddenly that four goal deficit has now been halved. Thibaea fought back two years ago to win their first ever Copa point. Surely they can’t do it again? Defederico is right on the edge of his technical area. He’s pointing to his temples. He wants focus. It’s all about game management for his side. They lead Thibaea by four goals to two.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘Thibaea push forward but that’s a poor pass and they could be caught out here! Vecino! Lovely ball to release Cáceres, he’s away! Bearing down on goal Fétique across to challenge. Down he goes! Inside the penalty area. Is it? It is! The referee points at the spot. It’s a penalty. And Fetique, he calls her over. And it’s a yellow card. Sargossan players indicating that perhaps the punishment should be more severe.’

MM: ‘Certainly, a little while ago, that would have been a nailed on straight red. But the rules have changed so that if the player is deemed to have made a legitimate attempt to win the ball then a yellow card is sufficient. And I think Fétique’s challenge, desperate though it was, was a true attempt to win the ball. She just couldn’t quite reach the ball and tripped the player instead.’

CA: ‘It’s Vecino who places the ball on the spot. Évrard Chappuis bounces up and down on his line. It’s Vecino! It’s five! Pure power, straight down the middle. Nothing subtle about that. And the three goal cushion is restored.’

* * * * * * * * * *

CA: ‘There’s the whistle! It’s over! Sargossa start this Copa campaign with three points. Thibaea’s wait for a first ever Copa victory goes on. Where you impressed Matías?’

MM: ‘I was. I think you have to be when you see the boys score five. I know Rodrigo won’t be entirely happy, particularly with the goals conceded. There were some pretty fundamental mistakes in there but it gives him something to work on ahead of what will be a much tougher ask against Nephara.’

CA: ‘That’s Sargossa’s next fixture and you can of course catch it right here. The five time champions of Esportiva, looking for their first Rushmori title, against the three time champions of Rushmore, looking to reclaim their crown. It’s a big ‘un. We hope you’ll all join us then. Back to you in the studio.’

Copa Rushmori XXX- Everything Thread (FINAL Posted!)

Copa Rushmori XXX- Everything Thread (FINAL Posted!)

Part 6

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