AOCAF LVII || Everything Thread

by **Siovanija and Teusland** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 1:45 pm

And there goes the referee’s whistle at Gold Field, the Goldhorns, despite a valiant performance, fall 3-2 to the Equestrian States. We’re going to take you live over to Flaneur now, where the Busoga Islands and Sultanate of Oontaz are currently level at 1-1 in stoppage time

When the whistle blew at Gold Field, there was a sense amongst the Goldhorns players that their tournament was over. They hadn’t yet seen the Busoga-Oontaz score, and were still a little upset at how the match they’d just played had ended.

It had started so well for the Goldhorns, who played very well on the day. Ivo Romanov had got on the board just 3 minutes in, a great shot that beat the keeper to the bottom left corner. The Equestrians had evened up before the first half was out, setting up an all-deciding second half. Michael Ribbeck sent Siovanija and Teusland ahead in the 57th minute with a shot that blasted into the top right corner, giving the Goldhorns a 2-1 lead.

That would evaporate, however, as the game drew to a close. The Goldhorns held on bravely, but could not stop Pristina Shine from evening the score in the 75th minute. Even the draw, however, was good enough for advancement. Then came the 80th minute, and a foul from Lyubomir Dimitrov. It was a bad foul, and Dimitrov knew it immediately. There was no way the Goldhorns wouldn’t be punished for it, and of course, Rosie Tyler knocked the free kick past Viktor Venev. That made it 3-2 for the Equestrian States, sending the winners on to the playoffs and the losers, apparently, on to an airplane home.

The players headed over to applaud the fans who had travelled to Mriin to watch the tournament, Ivo Romanov and Raphael Klopfer leading the way. Lyubomir Dimitrov still looked a little shell-shocked from what had happened minutes before, and he was being consoled by Viktor Venev and Thorsten Kramer. Michael Ribbeck too was visibly upset, he had after all certainly been the team’s best performer through its three matches, with 3 goals on the tournament.

The Goldhorns fans at Gold Field, however, were not paying attention whatsoever to this scene. The Busoga-Oontaz match was the only focus, and it was being shown on one of the screens at the stadium. Murmurs were passing through the stands that if the scoreline stayed as it was, Siovanija and Teusland would still advance. Apps were being rapidly refreshed, some fans had the game going on radio, and there was still a definite optimism.

That’s it at Flaneur, Busoga Islands and the Sultanate of Oontaz cancel each other out, finishing with a 1-1 draw. That means, of course, that Siovanija and Teusland advance to the Round of 16 at AOCAF LVII…

When the crowd in front of them began to roar as loudly as it had during any of their goals, it was understandable that the Goldhorns appeared quite confused. What was the source of this celebration? It was obvious something had happened. The players looked to each other for answers, maybe they’d been one of the best third-place teams and earned a spot in the Round of 16 that way?

‘Lads, you’re moving on!’ yelled one of the fans, and the mood amongst the players was beginning to change. Now the manager and his staff were coming over, surely they’d know what was going on.

“Boss, what’s going on?” Raphael Klopfer asked the question on the entire squad’s mind.

“Well, you see boys, if you run into the Busoga Islands team when you get back to the hotel, you should thank every one of them. They drew with Oontaz 1-1….”

Gavin Hughes couldn’t finish that statement, because the players immediately started to join in the celebrations with the fans, knowing exactly what that draw meant for them. The smiling Hughes also applauded the fans, before adding one last comment to his team: “Don’t celebrate too hard boys, we’ve got to get moving. We play Vilita and Turori at Wyvernscrest in the Round of 16.”

That was a quick trip back to reality for the Goldhorns players. Vilita and Turori. Defending regional champions, and Vilita the defending World Cup champions. This match was going to be the toughest task the national team had ever faced. If there was ever a time to face a task like that, it would be now, with luck on side.

As the Goldhorns, a few days later, boarded the bus to take them from the hotel in Northbrush to Wyvernscrest, they hoped that that luck would still be on their side.

Siovanija and Teusland 2-3 Equestrian States

Siovanija and Teusland XI (4-4-2): Venev; L. Dimitrov, Klopfer (c), Jager, Daschner (Helmke 64’); Leistner, V. Dimitrov, Kramer (Kostov 75’), Romanov; Kynev (Karapetrov 75’), Ribbeck
Goals: Ivo Romanov 3’, Michael Ribbeck 57’
Match Report: It was a brave performance from Siovanija and Teusland against regional number 7 Equestrian States, but in the end, the favourites avoided an upset and came from 2-1 down to win 3-2. Ivo Romanov got things going for the Goldhorns just minutes into the match, but the Equestrian States were always threatening. That culminated in a quick turnaround late in the match, with goals in the 75th minute and the winner coming from a beautifully taken Rosie Jones free kick in the 80th minute. Thanks to a great effort from the Busoga Islands, who drew with Oontaz 1-1, however, the Goldhorns are still moving on. They take on regional number 1, and defending champions, Vilita and Turori at Wyvernscrest in the Round of 16.

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 5:57 pm

FRIDAY TOP FIVE
Who are the best sibling duos in Cosumarite soccer history?
brought to you by E-Egret, aggregating AO's most-clicked digital content

The Tidessons have once again dominated the last 48 hours of the news cycle in Cosumar, this time thanks to events surrounding Alfred's inaugural cap. After Bryger's shocking Pink Tutu prank on the morning of, the brothers went on to start their first match together in the Dragonshirt, and then Alfred made it 1-0 within 72 seconds of the opening whistle against Northwest Kalactin. The younger of the two Tidessons present didn't score the goal, but was credited with an assist as his hard-hit heave into the box took a wild rainbow deflection off an opposing defender to loop under the crossbar.

Although it was a relatively quiet game for Bryger (playing with mostly a second-string Cosumarite attack), the sight of the two brothers celebrating together when they thought Alfred had wound up with an unlikely first senior goal... it got us thinking. What other Soccer Sibling teams have made waves here over the years? From Bryger to Tilda, the Tidessons are all still young, but are they already the most iconic EVER?

It's Friday Top Five time.

#5. Mikka and Tormas ALPULAINEN

We start this list on a somber note. Mikka Alpulainen is best known now for being one of the 129 members of Cosumar's Heathen Front supporters group massacred during an away match in violent dictatorship Gregoryisgodistan during World Cup 77. He had only recently retired from a loooong playing career at the age of 40, and had seamlessly transitioned into a leadership role as a vocal Vanquishers fan in Heathen Front.

Both he and his four-years-younger brother, Tormas, were pure poachers up top, developed by local club AC Holmenkollen in suburban Ramusok. After Holmenkollen, their paths diverged as Mikka spent his 20s at Stoneshore United and Tormas went to play overseas in Nova Anglicana and then for Morponte Fief. However, both were late bloomers, and reunited in Semarland at FC Kolberg in their 30s for the years for which they are best remembered. Mikka, in fact, had his highest goal-scoring season at age 39 after coming back out of retirement. He would be mowed down by Gregoryisgodistani police less than three years later. Tormas would retire from FC Kolberg the following season, aged 38. Neither would ever earn a Cosumar cap, but the Alpulainen brothers are still regarded as legends in Semarland. A small monument at Leviathan Arena honors Mikka for his passionate advocacy - up to the moment of his death - of Cosumarite soccer over a career exceeding two decades.

#4. Irvinn and Jeff RINCON

Everybody knows about Irvinn Rincon, one of the great Cosumarite central midfielders of all time. Still the team's leader in assists more than 20 World Cups after his retirement, his legend needs no elaboration here. Many younger fans, however, may not remember that his little brother Jeff, a winger, also had a successful career. Both are in the Club Hall of Fame at Morponte Fief FC, near where they grew up with a single mom and five other siblings. While Irvinn would depart at age 23 to go on to dominate the primordial domestic circuit with a number of clubs, Jeff stayed at Morponte for his entire career (16 years, from age 16 to 32) and, locally, is revered as much as Irvinn. Jeff was killed in a motorcycle accident at 32 that cut his career short and caused Irvinn to retire early with depression after World Cup 56.

Jeez, this is a surprisingly depressing Top Five Friday so far. But imagine if Jeff hadn't died and both he and Irvinn had played longer, perhaps reuniting back at Morponte Fief to end their careers? I mean, hell, Irvinn had already racked up 77 international assists in just five full cycles. That would've made them an even more iconic band of brothers and possibly pushed them further up the list.

#3. Darwyn and Linden LUCASSEN

But as it stands, the Rincons are stuck at #4 because there are only three pairs of siblings in Azure Dragons history that have BOTH been capped, and even played together for Cosumar. Those three would HAVE to be the top three, right?

Curly-haired Darwyn Lucassen, as intelligent in geology as on the pitch in the #10 role, amassed 58 caps and scored 15 goals for Cosumar over three World Cup cycles (72-74). His club career took him to elite and diverse locales such as Buyan, Mertagne (LigAnaia Calania), Brenecia and the two opposite extremes of Cosumar: frigid Treftadaeth Alliance and tropical Vloo stronghold Na'Ilee Mariners. His younger brother, Linden, was a gifted striker, tall and elegant and technically clean, who also came up through the Mariners academy. Linden peaked in the Nepharim Premiership with Sabrefell Athletic, earning him 20 caps (and 2 goals) in the World Cup 76 and 77 cycles. Unfortunately, Darwyn and Linden never really played in the same spheres or appeared in the same Cosumar camps, or even shared many interests or commonalities outside of football, which makes them substantially less "iconic" than the ensuing two families. There's even unconfirmed speculation that they were adopted brothers.

#2. Bryger, Alfred, Edith, Birgid and Tilda TIDESSON

If you're reading this, you likely already know about the Tidesson Five. You're also likely wondering why they're not first. Slow the jets. While the Tidessons have already accomplished a lot together (hello two Youth Cups, multiple DBC highlights and FOUR of them starting at once in the last Cygnus Cup Final) and clearly are destined to finish as Cosumar's greatest batch of siblings ever, they haven't collectively done quite enough yet. Besides the prolifically-accomplished Bryger, only Alfred now has a cap. But Edith may not be too far behind if she continues to improve with Real Azuris, and Tilda Tidesson garnered some Sekundar Ligan MVP votes last season at 19.

If you don't already know about the Tidesson Five, the extensive Courier's feature that begins here is a great place to start.

#1. Kit and Kathryn KVANDERWYK

So far, the Kvanderwyk's are the Cosumarite sibling gold standard. On the pitch AND off of it.

On the pitch, they combine for over 130 caps and 25 goals (highs for any sibling combination by far). They've starred (and, yes, actually starred) for big clubs like Cornellians, Cassandra City and Northern Union. They're known as quality players worldwide. Most importantly, they're iconic as a TEAM. They truly thrived playing together at Cornellians, with Kit assisting Kat from the wing countless times over the years and helping win each other individual awards. Not even the Tidessons have had that clear of a partnership with that level of chemistry. I mean, seriously. Even their nickname. Kit Kat? Come on.

Off the pitch... yeah, they have their thing.

Honorable Mentions:
Kamron and Emory GURREVITZ
Jukka and Jesper LINDROOS
Richard and Alex Jr. PEARCE
Mine, Theris and Yur FLAKSENHAAR

by **Tropicorp** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 6:17 pm

Techies advance to Round of 16 after Saint Emelie Shocker

Maal, Mriin :: Tropicorp's Techies have come out as the surprise winners of Group B in the AOCAF 57 Group Stage besting former AOCAF champion Farfadillis, long time competitor Geisenfried and relative newcomer Saint Emelie in the table to progress as the groups top seed. Tropicorp finished Group B play with two wins and one defeat for a total of six points. The stat line on the Techies was extremely unimpressive as they were the only group winning team to finish with a negative goal differential and one of just two teams overall with a negative goal differential to progress to the knockout rounds - the other being the Euran Oceania Territories, progressing for the first time in their history and perhaps most certainly not the type of company that anyone, Tropicorp included, would want to be associated with.

Tropicorp achieved their surprise position atop Group B by virtue of the unexpected results on the final matchday that saw Saint Emelie dominate Farfadillis by a 4-1 scoreline forcing Farfadillis to advance only through the table of third place teams with Tropicorp and Saint Emelie level on six points atop the group thanks to Tropicorp's 1-0 victory over Geisenfried on the final matchday of group stage action. While Saint Emelie's stat line included real group winning numbers - a signature victory over the #3 team in the region, Eight goals scored, best in the group and third best in the entire competition; and a +4 goal differential that was also third best in the tournament, the Techies were awarded first place and the 'easier' draw in the knockout stage by virtue of their 1-0 triumph over Saint Emelie's Insulaires on the opening matchday.

World Cup Champion to Suit Up for Tropicorp

After a disappointing showing during AOCAF 56, Tropicorp are back on the big stage and will get to test their latest moisture wicking materials, shape-molded footwear and Cocoabo integrated tactics in a winner-take all knockout situation against one of the regions best teams. In this case, their opponent would be the regions 10th ranked side Banija. It is a somewhat unfortunate fact for the Techies that despite winning their group they will progress to face a side higher than them in the rankings. However, the consolation must come in the fact that had they finished as Group B's runner-up instead, they might have been drawn up against an even higher ranked side like the defending champion and number one ranked team in the region fed from the number one ranked footsport nation in the multiverse: Vilita and Turori.

Regardless, Tropicorp Officials knew they were going to be in for a challenge so they prepared a contingency plan. Former Sunrise International and World Cup Champion Hasato Kimiki, playing out their golden years as the star attraction on Tropicorp's domestic club in the second sub-tier of the Vilitan League system, would be joining up and replacing one of the Techies in midfield for the knockout rounds. Kimiki was due to report back to Tropicorp for training at the conclusion of the AOCAF Cup regardless and agreed to kick things off in Mriin first joining up with the Techies as an eligible player by virtue of the eligibility rules set forth by the Tropicorp Internationalization Committee (TIC) that deem any employee of Tropicorp eligible to represent Tropicorp. As an employee of Tropicorp by virtue of the playing contract with Tropicorp FC, Kimiki, much like goalkeeper Hanauma Ranbomahi, is eligible to play for the Techies and will likely be handed the captains armband as they lead the squad out against Banija in the Round of 16.

World Cup 81/82/83/84

© Sporting Times Daily 2020
National Team looks to break out
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Writer

Following from their 1-0 win against Novo Calania, the Commonwealth National Team have packed up their training camp and moved to Seastone, the middle island on the chain that makes up Mriin.

While the two venues in Prei came with their own challenges, the venue for their next match, in the Round of 16 against 95X, and a possible quarterfinal as well, will have a completely different feel and its own set of problems. The two stadiums where group matches were played --the Ritual Theatre and Cliffside—both were small and had pitches that were not familiar to anyone on the roster. But Pam Scott knew it well, "That old time Astroturf, sheesh. I know plenty about it and have no good memories. But I guess I was lucky enough to remember how fast the ball travels on it and we were able to adapt some of the tactics and you see how it worked out."

Now heading to Vidial, there will be another adjustment to consider. "This stadium (Flaneur) has the new generation of artificial grass (as does the other stadium in the city, Goldfield) and while the footing is better and the ball rolls more true, tackling is the biggest issue. When we've been on it in the past, we have to remind the team to choose their moments wisely, because you can get some nasty friction burns on your legs and arms."

Having finished with a perfect record in Group D, Baker Park will have the advantage of facing a lower ranked opponent in 95X, but Scott doesn't think that makes this game any easier than if the roles were reversed. "Someone told me that the media in Equestrian States was very high on us in their previews of the tournament, and just as was the case at the World Cup, teams are ready for us and want to put us back in our place. Ian (Coverstone) has been quite vocal with the squad about what the differences between being happy to win as a low ranked side and happy to not get beat by a low ranked side are."

Scott also commented on the demeanor of the squad, saying that it was a bit of a departure from previous groups. "There's a bit of different vibe about this bunch than what we (the coaches) are used to. I've had a good number of these guys and gals in the teams I've led, and generally when the training is done, when they've put in the work like pros, they cut loose and there's a bit of giddiness among them. It's been a bit lower key this time. I think the post match after the Eshan win was about as silly as I've seen them be."

lineup vs 95X
Gordon; Stephens, Monaghan, Hutchins; Yeomans, Hays, Mason, Ismail; Coverstone; Jones, Patton

by **Equestrian States** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 7:54 pm

-AOCAF CUP LVII - MATCH DAY 3-
Rosie Tyler Rescues Ponies from Humiliating Upset
Equestrian States finish atop Group E as second-half rally sees Ponies past Goldhorns
by Steve McNotapony

Siovanija & Teusland 2-3 Equestrian States
at Gold Field in Vidial, Mriin
Attendance: 60,000

VIDIAL, Mriin - The Ponies entered the 57th AOCAF Championship with their eyes set on bringing home a title, but after two disappointing draws to start the campaign the Equestrian States was at risk of crashing out in the group stage. Considering the Ponies' six-match winning streak in AOCAF group play entering the tournament and their status as top seeds, such an exit would be almost unthinkable. As the Equestrians fell behind early against Siovanija & Teusland, even the typically optimistic Ponies supporters were looking terribly nervous. Fortunately, the Equestrian States found their stride late in the second half, Pristina Shine and Rosie Tyler rallying the Ponies from a goal down to win the match as well as the top spot in Group E in an incredible 15-minute turnaround.

Siovanija & Teusland were the third-seeded team in the group, but after two matches the Goldhorns were atop the table by a couple points as the higher-seeded Equestrians and Oontazniks played to draws in their opening two games. The Goldhorns had originally been hoping that the Ponies would wrap up a spot in the knockouts early so they might face a weaker Equestrian squad, but there was no chance of Pearly White fielding anything less than her best team with the Ponies in need of a win to control their own fate. A draw might have been enough for the Equestrians to advance, provided the Sultanate of Oontaz and Busoga Islands also drew and the Ponies maintained their lead in the goals-against tiebreaker, but nobody in the Ponies' locker room wanted to deal with that, they wanted all three points.

However, the Equestrians fell behind early as Ivo Romanov found the back of the net in the 3rd minute, putting the ball in the bottom corner just beyond the diving Gentle Breeze. Fortunately, the Ponies kept calm and methodically chipped away at the Siovanijan defense, which paid off half an hour later when Rosewing got a head on a Brix Hamilton cross, steering the ball past goalkeeper Viktor Venev to level the score at one. The Equestrians continued to dominate the possession battle, but the Goldhorns scored on a counterattack in the 57th minute, leaving the Ponies just over 30 minutes to equalize or their tournament would surely be over.

With just 15 minutes left, Pristina Shine provided the spark the Equestrian States needed, dancing through the Siovanijan back line before rifling the ball into the net. The Goldhorns were clearly exhausted and desperately tried to hold on for a draw, but the Ponies weren't going to be denied. A poor tackle from Lyubomir Dimitrov gave the Equestrians a set piece just outside the box and free kick specialist Rosie Tyler came off the bench to bury it in the top corner, setting off raucous celebrations in the Equestrian supporters sections. It wasn't pretty, but the Ponies finished atop their AOCAF group for the third consecutive tournament and now things get much simpler: win four matches and you'll be the regional champions.

  AOCAF CUP 57 - GROUP E         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts        Match Day 3 Results:
1  Equestrian States (7)        3   1  2  0    4   3  +1    5   Q     Busoga Islands 1–1 Sultanate of Oontaz 
2  Siovanija & Teusland (22)    3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4   Q    @ Flâneur in Vidial, MRN
3  Sultanate of Oontaz (14)     3   0  3  0    4   4   0    3   E     Siovanija & Teusland 2–3 Equestrian States 
4  Busoga Islands (43)          3   0  2  1    2   3  −1    2   E    @ Gold Field in Vidial, MRN

With the group stage done, the Equestrian States heads to Bruul for their second round match against Semarland. The Semars were fairly solid in Group A, rebounding from a 3-1 loss in the opener against Mriin with a pair of 1-0 wins against Freeport and Ko-oren that saw them through to the knockouts. The key to winning this match for the Ponies will likely be if they can rediscover the form which powered them to a quarterfinals berth in the last World Cup; if they do, the Equestrians should have little difficulty seeing off the Semars, but if the Ponies continue their mediocre performances from the group stage, they might be looking at another disappointing second round exit.

by **Mriin** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 8:01 pm

aroundthehorn.mrn

You gotta be Farfing me.

Following the ~riveting~ and predictable 3-1 victory over Equestrian cast-offs Freeport, you'd think we'd be sitting pretty. Three straight games won on comfortable two goal leads, the new lineup shaking out fantastically in front of the home crowds. Best record in the group stage, even! With the redraw that the whole third-place-advancements thing requires, that means we'll be up against the worst-performing team to sneak through to the knockouts!

It's fucking Farfadillis. Ranked third in the region, seventh in the world Farfadillis. The last first-seed to beat us for over half a decade up until Brenecia mashed us in the last World Cup. How could it be Farfadillis?! Well, it seems like they're might be something a wee bit off with this vintage of the Farf team. The draw they suffered against Eura's AO colony wasn't the most surprising thing to us Reaver faithful--we well remember the Farves hemorrhaging nonsensical draws in our WC78 group, especially to the unranked ghost of a Polar Islandstates squad that robbed them of FOUR points. But actually flat-out losing to an unheralded side? And getting destroyed 4-1? That's unheard of.

Alright, maybe that's not quite fair--Saint Emelie should also be a very recognizable name to any Mrii, having a nearly if not more implausible 4-3 victory over eventual champions Vilita & Turori in our group last AOCAF. Which also setup that ludicrous 3-way-tie on six points, which mercifully saw us through to charge towards the rematch of a final. Perhaps Les Insulaires are making their name as something of a giant killer? But even then, a wacky nail-biter of a 4-3 over one of the multiverse's best is an exciting story and just plausible enough. Even with some arguably spotty officiating, that 4-1... it's scary. It's scary because it gives me hope. Nothing gives me hope! I have always had full faith in the blue and gold and also always knew in my heart of hearts that we are only ever destined for failure it a cruel, cold, uncaring world. Don't tempt me with this flagging, wounded behemoth that would make a glorious trophy but is also liable to wake up and maul my face off at any moment. My heart can't take much more of this.

by **Mriin** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 8:05 pm

Cutoff || Eighthfinals
Here comes the knockouts; begging won't stop your heart from being broken.

Mriin 0–2 Farfadillis || @Haven, Maal || Scorinated by Qusmo
Saint Emelie 0–0 Eshan (0–0 AET) (4–2 pen.) || @Public Park, Andü
Vilita & Turori 4–5 Siovanija and Teusland || @Wyvernscrest, Northbrush
Valanora 4–2 Saltstead || @Aerodrome, Kaalen

Baker Park 4–1 95X || @Flâneur, Vidial
Equestrian States 1–1 Semarland (2–1 AET) || @Butcher’s Den, Bruul
Cosumar 4–1 Euran Oceania Territories || @Iron Alley, Hosingr
Tropicorp 0–2 Banija || @Dockside, Hosingr

Quarterfinal Pairings
QF1: Saint Emelie v Farfadillis || @Haven, Maal
QF2: Valanora v Siovanija and Teusland || @Seagate, Easthold

QF3: Baker Park v Equestrian States || @Gold Field, Vidial
QF4: Cosumar v Banija || @Dockside, Hosingr

by **Vilita and Turori** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 8:38 pm

Vilita & Turori [4] - [5] Siovanija and Teusland

:: Vilita & Turori Goalscorers ::
:: 30' Amakli Inuro'o
:: 47' Lati'ala Giaoka
:: 51' Amakli Inuro'o
:: 86' Wiztsana Iretziia

Vilita & Turori Eel Cat Things Lineup v. Siovanija and Teusland ::
[GK] Vernasa Sanamun, [D.] Rojara Tiones, [D.] Lohani Riiyaaw, [D.] Inbekira Ajhabekk, [D.] Amakli Inuro'o, [ML] Limu Katarakhna, [MC] Kudii Davasarii, [MC] Kiidallen Aeroluzzi, [MR] Lati'ala Giaoka, [FC] Nii'arala Milaaso, [FC] Enzoril Alabonni
BENCH::
[FC] Wiztsana Iretziia, [FC] Linvoi Warazil, [M] Serabi Chamya, [M] Intikko Kuhilana, [U ] Kala'a Yuliizala, [D] Jirak Trikala, [GK] Striitca Virahat

by **Banija** » Fri Nov 30, 2018 10:38 pm

Kadongo Kamu punch ticket to third straight AOCAF Quarterfinal with 2-0 win over Tropicorp

The Banijans celebrate a 2-0 win over Tropicorp in the Round of 16 of AOCAF LVII

DOCKSIDE, HOSINGR, MRIIN- The eyes of the Banijan sporting world are all on Mriin, as Banija competes in just its third ever regional championships. For the third straight edition of this tournament, the Banijans will find themselves at what seems to be becoming a familiar hurdle- the quarterfinals. In AOCAF LV, they shocked Eshan in the Round of 16, drawing a thrilling match 4-4 in regulation and taking the match to penalties, and actually winning the shootout- Banija's only shootout victory in the history of this national team. In the last edition of this tournament, also in the Equestrian States, the Banijans went to the quarterfinals once again, after winning two group stage games, as they fell at that hurdle to the eventual regional, and world champion, Vilita & Turori.

This tournament, of course, has had its share of ups and downs. The tournament started fairly well- while they lost to Valanora, their subregional neighbors were the #2 team in all of Atlantian Oceania, and are quite possibly the most decorated team in international soccer. It was Banija's 3-0 win over Audioslavia on matchday 2 that gave them confidence. A win, against a lowly Lochario side, would progress them through to the next round, right? But it would only be by the skin of their teeth. They struggled to a 0-0 draw against the group's unranked side. With Audioslavia then defeating Valanora, the panic alarms were on, but Banija barely made it to the knockout stages on virtue of goal difference. Not the way they wanted to get here, of course, but here they were.

Who were they drawn against? None other than the Techies of Tropicorp. Drawing from a region that is on a sporting high at the moment- a region that hosts the defending regional and world champions, in the form of Vilita and Turori, they were not going to be slouches. They won their group, winning a group with Farfadillis, another Glorious Southwestern rival. They were always going to be a formidable opponent- however, on this day, the match would belong to the Banijans. The Banijans came in, with their backs against the wall- a well anticipated matchup with Tropicorp, but with the pressure on the Banijans to make their third straight quarterfinal, especially following a poor performance against Lochario, while there was no pressure at all on Tropicorp to win.

Even though they were the ones faced with pressure, it is the Banijans who rose to the occasion. This was a game that the Kadongo Kamu deserved to win, as they outplayed their opponents. Marcus Waters made sure to have his team ready- the coach wanted to continue to move this team forward, and another run in this tournament would help them build upon past performances. The first half was essentially a dominant showing from the Banijan national team. They were taking the initiative, they were moving the ball around- a far cry from their nearly lifeless performance against Lochario, one that almost cost them a spot in the knockout stages entirely.

The first goal was only 12 minutes in, and it came courtesy of the captain, Chibuzo Afolayan. He, of course, continues to take strides up the all-time goalscorers list for Banija. A counter-attack after a corner kick, he was able to get a through ball, taking on a Tropicorp outside back one on one. After beating him on the dribble, he chipped the goalkeeper for a great finish to give his side a 1-0 lead. The Banijans kept pressing after that, and Afolayan almost found a second, hitting the crossbar from 22 yards. It would be a defender, however, who would bury it in the 38th minute. Jalang Ba rose above the crowd on a corner kick, and smashed home a header for his first career international goal, to make the score 2-0.

That was how they finished- two for the Banijans, nil for Tropicorp. A solid win for the Banijans, Marcus Waters was happy with his team's performance. "In the first half, we attacked this game. We went towards goal, we were hungry, we were ruthless. We played with a point to prove, with a chip on our shoulder- just the way I like it. When we combine like we did in today's first half, when we connect like we did in today's first half, then all is well. When we play with that kind of confidence, we can play with anybody- even the region's big dogs, like Cosumar, like Valanora. However, there is much to improve on, of course. We need to be able to maintain more possesion- offenses from this point onward only get stronger, and we have to be ready to meet that challenge."

Who have the Banijans drawn in the quarterfinals? None other than Cosumar. The champions of AOCAF 54, and competing in nearly 30 World Cup cycles, Cosumar is one of those storied names in international soccer- the third traditional former regional champion that Banija has had to face during this tournament. They are the region's 5th ranked team, and their manager, Alexander Pearce, is looking for a big time tournament success to restore confidence in his own managerial reign. Can the Banijans prove that the third time's the charm, and slay the Azure Dragons en route to their first ever AOCAF semifinal? We'll find out in a couple of days in what is surely to be an extremely highly anticipated quarterfinal.

by **Saint Emelie** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 10:03 am

La Poste D'Émelie

Saint Émelie Topple Eshan to Make Quarters

Saint Émelie 0-0 Eshan (0-0 AET)
Saint Émelie win 4-2 on penalties

Saint Émelie beat Eshan in a dramatic penalty shootout to continue their unlikely AOCAF run in Mriin with Houbért Joubert making the winning save.

Unlike some of Les Insulaires previous encounters, the body of the match was a fairly dour affair with Saint Émelie defending stoutly for long periods of the game and despite piling on the pressure in the latter stages, sixth seeds Eshan were unable to break through.

The best chances for Amélie Martin's team came just before half time when a counter attack initiated by Florence Caseille resulted in Sara Katjanovic poking a shot against the base of the post on the stretch. Caseille then speared the follow up just over the bar from a tight angle.

In general however, Eshan had the bulk of possession and could have scored late in the 90 minutes when a downward header was cleared off the line following a corner. They also had an opportunity in extra time as the Saint Émelie defence began to tire, however Joubert made an excellent save low to his left-hand side to deny the favourites a late goal.

For the most part, the match seemed destined to go to penalties and that's eventually what happened. Sara Katjanovic started things well for Les Insulaires by smashing her penalty into the top corner and despite the first Eshani penalty sending Joubert the wrong way, it was the second kick where things began to unravel for the group D runners up.
Florian Bastereud successfully sunk his spot-kick, however the same could not be said for his Eshani counterpart who sent Joubert the wrong way, but dragged their shot against the post and wide.
Simon Pelletiér then stepped up to drill his spot kick home and despite the Eshan penalty also being scored to keep the favourites just one behind, substitute striker Marine Fouché chipped her penalty home to put the pressure on the fourth penalty taker for Eshan.

Their effort wasn't awful-at a good pace and towards the side of the goal-however Saint Émelie keeper Joubert read the direction and clawed the ball away to earn his team a spot in their first international quarter finals.

Farfadillis Rematch to Come

That save set up a quarter-final tie with Farfadillis, who beat hosts Mriin 2-0 in their round of 16 match to seal their progress despite only making the knockouts by virtue of being the best third-placed side in the group stage.
Saint Émelie were the reason that 3rd-seeds Farfadillis could only manage third after thrashing them 4-1 in their final group match and despite the two teams being ranked 20 places apart, Amélie Martín will fancy her team's chances of making an implausible, but historic semi-final.

Whether Farfadillis will come up with a less spineless performance than in the team's first meeting remains to be seen, but if they can't, then Saint Émelie's high tempo counter-attacks may once again tear apart the Farf defence.

Elsewhere

There was an arguably bigger shock in one of the other group matches as number 1 seeds and last edition's champions Vilita and Turori were dumped out by 22nd-ranked Siovanija and Teusland. Equally eyecatching was the thrilling nature of the game that resulted in a 5-4 victory for the underdogs.

Valanora are now the highest-ranked side left in the tournament and they negotiated a 4-2 victory with Saltstead to keep their campaign on track. Baker Park beat 95X 4-1, Cosumar overcame the Euran Oceanian Territories by the same scoreline and Banija beat Saint Émelie's group mates Tropicorp 2-0. The ony other match to go beyond normal time was between Semarland and the Equestrian States, with the ponies nicking a goal in extra time to progress.

by **Siovanija and Teusland** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 11:31 am

”It appears that extra time is imminent here at Wyvernscrest, and who could have predicted that 90 minutes ago? Super sub Wiztsana Iretziia evened the score at 4-4, and it seems that this match, an instant classic, might have something left in it still. Whether that one special moment will come for the Goldhorns or the Eel Cat Things, remains to be seen. 4 minutes of stoppage time in this second half…

Michael Ribbeck couldn’t quite believe what was unfolding on the Wyvernscrest pitch on this night. He’d played in some crazy games before, certainly. For the national team, there was the 4-2 win over Qasden last AOCAF. Ribbeck had managed a brace in that one. Then there was the 5-4 loss to Main Nation Ministry in World Cup Qualifiers, which he’d been on the bench for. At the domestic level, jumping to mind immediately was his club SW Stahlberg’s 3-3 draw with Olympia Borograd during which tempers on all sides boiled over. But none of them had quite as much crazy as this game tonight.

Rain had been pouring all throughout the game, and it seemed to be the perfect storm for the Goldhorns. Ivo Romanov had made another one of his runs into the box before beating Vernasa Sanamun with a strong shot into the right corner, putting Siovanija and Teusland 1-0 up after just 14 minutes. The game continued at a breakneck speed afterwards, each side looking strong going forward and trading chances. Vilita and Turori equalized, of course, through young centre back Amakli Inuro’o in the 30th minute. Surely, the thought had gone through Ribbeck’s mind, the world and regional champs would pull away now.

Before the first half was out, however, Ribbeck got his name onto the scoresheet. He hadn’t had to work very hard to be on the end of it, Lutz Daschner had blasted in a strong cross probably intended for his partner Krasimir Kynev. Kynev had let it go, however, and thus a diving Ribbeck got a head to it. Full of adrenaline, he got up and ran over to the Goldhorns’ fan section that was absolutely in heaven thanks to the lead. When the half-time whistle blew, there was a hope amongst the team: 45 more boys, 45 more. Play our game.

Counting out the world champions, however, would have been remarkably foolish. And the Goldhorns were made to be fools early in the second half. Just two minutes in, Lati’ala Giaoka blew past his marker and found himself in alone with Viktor Venev. Venev botched his positioning, and Giaoka finished off what was a really good goal. Just minutes later, Amakli Inuro’o was there again: a great header off a free kick putting Vilita and Turori in the lead 3-2. 2 goals in the first 6 minutes of the half for Vilita and Turori, and there were some anxious looks being tossed around between the Goldhorns.

Despite the goal he’d gotten in the first half, Ribbeck hadn’t managed to do much in the game. Krasimir Kynev looked much likelier to score overall, and Ribbeck was quite disappointed in himself. It was lucky for him that just minutes after Vilita and Turori took the lead, Paulus Leistner worked hard to earn the Goldhorns a corner. Ivo Romanov swung it in, and the head of young Karl-Heinz Jager was there to meet it. The Eel Cat Things had relied on their young centre back, Inuro’o, to give them the lead, and now the Goldhorns’ own young defender Jager was putting them back on level terms.

The match quieted down after that, each side waiting the other out. Who would tire first, who would lapse in concentration first. Once Lutz Daschner picked up an interception just at the halfline, however, the Goldhorns sensed this might just be the moment. Daschner sped forward and found Ivo Romanov, who inched closer and closer to the box before laying a pass for Thorsten Kramer. Kramer almost instantly found the run of Krasimir Kynev. Kynev’s shot was taken well, and there was no stopping it from reaching goal. 4-3 for Siovanija and Teusland now, just 16 minutes of the 90 left to play.

Again, however, Vilita and Turori would not back down. Wiztsana Iretziia had come on shortly after the goal from Kynev, and had been a threat to the Goldhorn backline immediately. It was incredibly difficult to hang on, and even Ribbeck felt that he should be ready for 30 more minutes to come; surely the Eel Cat Things would equalize. As the minutes ticked on and closer and closer to that magic number of 90, however, there was some hope that perhaps the Goldhorns had done enough. That would be very quickly proven wrong, however. Iretziia broke free of Raphael Klopfer, received a pass and hit a beautiful shot past Venev. Disappointment was written all over the faces of the Goldhorns, but all was not lost yet.

Ribbeck was standing just below the centre circle now, as the added time wore on. Vilita and Turori were putting some pressure on, but Siovanija and Teusland were still defending well. Suddenly, Ribbeck perked up a bit. Lutz von Bergen, who’d been brought on for Leistner, picked up the ball. Teammates at Stahlberg, Ribbeck knew exactly what von Bergen would do and exactly what he himself needed to do to get into position. If there was ever a time to get into the game, it was now.

’Oh here’s von Bergen, he’s coming forward with a lot of speed, Ribbeck moving with him. This might just be the last attack the Goldhorns will get, and there’s space opened up here, the pass is in, Ribbeck picks it up….Ribbeck…..Oh my word, he’s done it! Michael Ribbeck gives Siovanija and Teusland a 5-4 lead over Vilita and Turori in second half stoppage time! Look at the smile on his face, he knows what he’s done! The Goldhorn fans are in heaven, they may have just pulled it off!

Seconds ticked on now, closer and closer to the comforting final blow of the referee’s whistle. Vilita and Turori were coming on strong still, but now there was a renewed spirit within the Goldhorns: this is ours. Ivo Romanov managed to take the ball into the corner on attack, before it was sent out for a corner. That play would not be taken, though, and the referee called time.

The rest of that night was a bit of a blur for Ribbeck. Not because he’d partied hard in the wake of the victory; that was of course out of the question. More because of the speed with which everything happened; the hundreds if not thousands of text messages he received, the team dinner afterwards, and finally settling back in at the hotel. Social media back home was going insane over the result, which Ribbeck and the team didn’t get too involved in: after all, they hadn’t won any championship with the game. Of course, however, the win was certainly the biggest moment in the national team’s history by a very, very long shot, and thus it was not entirely ignored either.

The next morning, Ribbeck headed down to the hotel lobby early the next morning to grab breakfast. The team would be quitting Northbrush shortly, heading to Easthold which would be the site of the Quarterfinal match. That was a new challenge, of course. The reward for beating regional #1 Vilita and Turori was a date with #2 Valanora. The earliest preparations for that match were interrupted, however, by the team’s media officer, who handed him a copy of that morning’s Stelburger Zeitung, a taste of home.

’Das Wunder von Northbrush’ was written in huge letters on the title, the press already giving the match its name: The Miracle of Northbrush. Ribbeck smiled as he saw the picture of himself celebrating the winning goal below it. Was the headline and perhaps even his celebration a bit over the top? Most certainly. Would this copy of the newspaper be framed and hung up back home? Also most certainly.

Siovanija and Teusland 5-4 Vilita and Turori

Siovanija and Teusland XI (4-4-2): Venev; L. Dimitrov, Jager, Klopfer (c), Daschner (Helmke 76’); Leistner (von Bergen 79’), V. Dimitrov, Kramer (Kostov 90’), Romanov; Kynev, Ribbeck
Goals: Ivo Romanov 14’, Michael Ribbeck 41’, Karl-Heinz Jager 59’, Krasimir Kynev 74’, Michael Ribbeck 90+1’
Match Report: Words don’t begin to describe what an incredible game of football this was, from both sides. Siovanija and Teusland fought hard, and Vilita and Turori fought just as hard. The Goldhorns led 2-1, before seeing Vilita and Turori take command and go up 3-2. Karl-Heinz Jager scored his first international goal off a corner to even the score, before Krasimir Kynev gave the Goldhorns a lead in the 74th minute. The Eel Cat Things evened with 4 minutes left in normal time, but in stoppage time it was Michael Ribbeck who delivered the ending and victory to the Goldhorns. There’s been a lot of hyperbole in the press after this one, and while the Goldhorns do deserve praise for what is certainly the victory in the national team’s history, there is another game on the horizon. It doesn’t get any easier now for the Goldhorns, as they take on 5 time world champions, 4 time regional champions and regional rank number 2 Valanora. It’s also another Southwestern showdown, with Valanora being Siovanija and Teusland’s closest geographic neighbour in Southwestern AO. Subregional pride is on the line, and hopefully the Goldhorns’ luck has not run out yet.

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 2:04 pm

Valgard, Zeale-Riddick inspire Cosumar to 4-1 knockout win

by Julie Nicholson
Courier Sports Editor

H O S I N G R -- In their first competitive meeting against the Euran Oceania Territories - the new political entity arising out of what was once Mertagne, the Cosumar national team quickly discovered that their opponents bear little resemblance to Eura on the pitch.

The EOT, though quickly-growing and with a well-established football culture in Fligsive to draw from, were no match for a Vanquishers side in peak form at Iron Alley. It was over by half time as Alexander Pearce's side cruised to a 4-1 victory over the Euran expats, ending a streak of three consecutive narrower-than-expected 2-1 wins.

Cosumar's top two strikers at this AOCAF, Romikk Valgard and Vega Zeale-Riddick, got their first start together up top and it immediately paid dividends. The duo, reprising their partnership from Cosumar's AOCAF 54 title without a beat missed, were the stars of the show. Zeale-Riddick scored two of the four goals while Valgard unselfishly assisted the other two, bagged by attacking midfielders Bryger Tidesson and Isla Sibučić. Combined, each member of Pearce's 4-2-2-2 front four was directly involved in at least one goal to move Cosumar emphatically into the Quarterfinals.

The back six also had a noteworthy day, although Peter Chadwick's crisp strike in the 16th minute had briefly made it 1-1, leaving them still in search of their first clean sheet in Mriin. The Holdenberg City man's outburst interrupted a positive start for Cosumar that had culminated with Valgard scything his way to the left goal line and fizzing a ball to the back post for Tidesson to smash home for the opener. The sequence came immediately after a reaction save by Shjegrzh Na'Kefir on the other end, the Crisisbless keeper then turning and finding Sibučić way up the field - an excellent piece of distribution.

The goals continued coming thick and fast after EOT's equalizer. Sibučić pounced on a very poor pass out of his own box by EOT goalkeeper Bart Jones in the 24th minute, which caused the ball to squirt free from Kurt Strong and to a wide-open Zeale-Riddick on the right side of the box, who calmly curled it back past Jones to restore Cosumar's lead.

Later in the first half, a few minutes before the break, the Dragons dusted it at 3-1 when Valgard sucked defenders toward him and then played a delightful through ball past them for Sibučić to run onto, which she did, before lifting the ball over Jones and softly into the back of the net. It was clockwork stuff for the Cosumarites, no doubt making the largely Euraleague-based EOT side relieved that Sibučić didn't join up with Valgard at Ulsa in the transfer window as had been speculated.

The Expats could have pulled one back to make it 3-2 in the opening minutes of the second half when a Joel Conway cross was headed into the path of Pierre-Louis Le Tonnelier by recent Champions' Cup winner Tom Duffy, but the Farrenton Athletic man failed to test Na'Kefir and launched the ball into orbit.

His profligacy came back to haunt a disgruntled Skorji Oslograd moments later when Zeale-Riddick got the fourth for Cosumar and completed her brace, redirecting a Kai-Kai Mokumdarian drive past Jones with a delectable first-time flick. But, once again, even though he didn't get his third direct assist, Romikk Valgard was at the heart of the action. He was trickier and more precise in tight spaces than usual today, almost playing as a creative "second striker" rather than his usual role as the goalscorer. His constant running rings around the three EOT center backs is what opened up the space to allow Mokumdarian to carve forward and Zeale-Riddick to wait relatively unmarked for her chances.

It was great to see Valgard come in and hit peak stride despite resting for the last two matchdays. Alexander Pearce would be crazy not to lean heavily upon Romikk's abilities in the next match-up against Banija.

The Kadongo Kamu are another step or two up from the Euran Oceania Territories, as is to be expected when you progress deeper into any knockout stage. Banija aren't a team with a lot of AOCAF or World Cup pedigree, but they're a dangerous side universally recognized as being on the up-and-up. Buoyed by their recent hosting of World Cup 81, opening of the talent pool to all genders and an increasingly legitimate domestic league (OAS Royal just paid seven figures for BSL star Gitonga Kahara), the Royal Banijan Soccer Association will be eager to capitalize on their considerable progress with an upset and deep run at an AOCAF medal. Cosumar still have the greater depth and overall talent, but the margins aren't as great as they would've been a few years ago. The Vanquishers will be fighting uphill against the swelling tide of momentum and positive energy surrounding the Banijan game. That wave has already upended Audioslavia, and gave Valanora a strong push as well.

It promises to be a good one as Pearce's boys and girls travel back to across Hosingr to Dockside, where they defeated Saltstead on MD1. If Cosumar win, either Baker Park or Equestrian States will await in the Fiefdom's third semifinal in the last four AOCAFs.

by **Equestrian States** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 6:45 pm

-AOCAF CUP LVII - ROUND OF 16-
Pristina Shine, Ponies Slip Past Semarland in Extra Time
Equestrian States advance to fifth quarterfinal in last six tournaments
by Steve McNotapony

Equestrian States 2-1 Semarland
at the Butcher's Den in Bruul, Mriin
Attendance: 45,000
Scoring:

Kwaeome Richards '38 (D. Boateng)

Rainbow Blitz '43 (Cloudchaser)

Pristina Shine '116 (A. Aiza)

BRUUL, Mriin - The Equestrian States national hoofball team is on their way to yet another quarterfinals appearance after beating Semarland 2-1 in the second round of the 57th AOCAF Cup. It took 120 minutes, was frustrating beyond belief, and certainly won't do much to settle supporters' unease over the Ponies' recent form, but in the end it was enough for the Equestrians to advance, which at this point is all that really matters.

After a group stage in which the Ponies were held to a couple of disappointing draws and required a late comeback in the final match just to punch their ticket to the knockouts after initially being favored to sweep through the group with ease, Equestrian fans were hoping that their team had finally hit their stride. Instead, the Ponies fell behind and struggled to break down a solid but rather unremarkable Semar team. Granted, in years past this fixture might have been a far more interesting one, but the Equestrian States is currently a top ten ranked team not only in the region, but in the whole multiverse, while Semarland is effectively an also-ran nowadays. Expectations are higher when you're a member of the multiverse's hoofball elite, and the Equestrians haven't looked quite up to task lately.

Despite the Ponies controlling possession for much of the first half, and indeed much of the match, young forward Kwaeome Richards gave the Semars the lead in the 38th minute, whipping the ball past Gentle Breeze off the post and into the net. It was the third time in four matches that the Equestrians had conceded first, hardly a record one wants to have when chasing a regional championship.

Rainbow Blitz leveled the score at one just five minutes later, combining with his longtime midfield partner Cloudchaser who provided the cross the pegasus headed home. The Ponies thus spent the rest of regulation looking for a killing blow that was always agonizingly out of reach. Pristina Shine was typically brilliant, but was frustratingly matched by Semar keeper Martin Valbuena who had an incredible day. Meanwhile, Aaron Aiza rattled the woodwork more times than he’d like to admit, narrowly missing a game-winner by inches no fewer than three times.

The match seemed destined to end on penalties as regulation ended and extra time began, an unpleasant prospect for Ponies supporters with less than fond memories of last year’s second round penalty loss to Ko-oren. Thankfully, Martin Valbuena finally made a mistake in the 116th minute. Elaine Everdeen hammered a blistering shot straight at Valbuena that the goalie couldn’t keep control of. Aaron Aiza picked up the loose ball and tapped it to the waiting Pristina Shine. The unicorn striker took no chances and blasted the ball into the back of the net at full strength despite being no more than a few yards out.

The Semars fought bravely for an equalizer, but the world-class Equestrian defense didn’t give them an inch. The final whistle blew, sealing the Ponies’ spot in the quarterfinals.

AOCAF CUP LVII - ROUND OF 16 RESULTS
 Mriin 0–2 Farfadillis 
@ Haven in Maal, MRN
 Saint Émelie (4) 0–0 (2) Eshan 
@ Public Park in Andü, MRN
 Vilita & Turori 4–5 Siovanija & Teusland 
@ Wyvernscrest in Northbrush, MRN
 Valanora 4–2 Saltstead 
@ Aerodrome in Kaalen, MRN
 Baker Park 4–1 95X 
@ Flâneur in Vidial, MRN
 Equestrian States 2–1 Semarland 
@ Butcher's Den in Bruul, MRN
 Cosumar 4–1 Euran Oceania Territories [F]
@ Iron Alley in Hosingr, MRN
 Tropicorp 0–2 Banija 
@ Dockside in Hosingr, MRN

The biggest news of the second round came out of Northbrush, where the Ponies' Group E groupmates Siovanija & Teusland stunned the top-ranked holders of both the AOCAF and World Cup titles Vilita & Turori in an unbelievable 5-4 shootout. The Goldhorns have been a team which has looked at times in recent years like one which could do something special, but I don't think anyone could've predicted this would be when they'd finally break out of the pack of also-rans. Elsewhere, Saint Émelie upset Eshan on penalties to reach their first ever quarterfinal, continuing their run of outperforming expectations in the AOCAF Cup after narrowly missing the knockouts last year. Valanora, Cosumar, Banija, and Baker Park all cruised to comfortable wins their respective second round fixtures, to the surprise of literally nobody. Finally, Farfadillis took down the hosts and defending runner-ups Mriin to break the hearts of locals dreaming of lifting the Cup in Maal on home soil.

AOCAF CUP LVII - QUARTERFINALS FIXTURES
 Farfadillis vs. Saint Émelie 
@ Haven in Maal, MRN
 Siovanija & Teusland vs. Valanora 
@ Seagate in Easthold, MRN
 Baker Park vs. Equestrian States 
@ Gold Field in Vidial, MRN
 Cosumar vs. Banija 
@ Dockside in Hosingr, MRN

The AOCAF quarterfinals should be fascinating to watch as a neutral, with a number of sides chasing their first ever semifinal berths and some interesting storylines to follow. Featuring prominently are teams from the Glorious Southwest of the region: Farfadillis, Valanora, Banija, Siovanija & Teusland, and the Equestrian States. Tantalizing potential semifinal rivalry clashes between the Farves and Vanorians and the Equestrians and Banijans are what sports media execs' wet dreams are made of. But, of course, the Ponies can't let the thought of who they might face in a hypothetical semifinal distract them from the task of beating Baker Park. The Bees are one of the multiverse's quickest-rising teams and will be savoring the chance to knock off the out-of-form Equestrians. The Ponies will likely be slight favorites thanks to their superior all-around talent and proven track record, but recent performances and Baker Park's upwards trajectory will keep anyone with half a brain from expecting a blowout.

by **Farfadillis** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 7:16 pm

The Freisan Farf Freitball Francitian hereby presents the Farf roster for the 57th Edition of the AOCAF Cup
Nation Name: The Oulandish Lands of Farfadillis
Demonym: Farf (plural Farves)
Team Nickname: La Vherderoja
Honours: AOCAF Cup 43 and 48 Winners

Kits
Provided by ediraf

STYLE MOD: +5

World Cup Roster, with in-depth information about some of the players.

STAFF
Manager: Tíbürçìó Çötàvíê - Age 60
Assistant: Rodrigo Morales - Age 32

GOALKEEPERS
#1 - Calogero Metz - GK - Age 39 - Cassandra City [VC]
#12 - Íüé Tgô - GK - Age 28 - Dí Maozöxê
#23 - Lafayette Tifoxé - GK - Age 34 - Jungle Strike

DEFENDERS
#2 - Kósa Bajnok - CB - Age 27 - Crisisbless
#4 - Ezequiel Marchiondo - RB - Age 23 - Jungle Strike
#6 - Mârtín Básá - LB - Age 31 - Tanrısal
#14 - Rubén Hinojosa - RB - Age 21 - Avenida Victoria
#15 - Moisés Fermández - LB - Age 21 - Bastion
#16 - Çìríkò Ûsêtêrnìx - CB - Age 21 - Dô Fäéýkô

MIDFIELDERS
#3 - Groaré Sasca - OM - Age 30 - KF Koflir
#5 - Somuele der Pros - CM - Age 32 - Eastweald
#8 - Lüí Wçêíl - LM - Age 26 - Spartangrad
#10 - Fôrté Wínrôuge - OM - Age 36 - 1830 Cathair [C]
#11 - Lázár Eleonóra - RM - Age 31 - Holdenberg
#13 - Zsolgar Zsase - CM - Age 24 - Mâ Âlâmëómë
#17 - Lojes de Sájajo - RM - Age 22 - Cassandra City
#18 - Faragó rue Cazade - LM - Age 20 - René Skaé Colonels
#19 - Sürgân t'Öéséné - CM - Age 20 - Marine Coast
#20 - Lancelot Mojica - CM - Age 19 - Avenida Victoria
#21 - Vínseslâdís Wìjìnì - OM - Age 22 - Dí Maozöxê

STRIKERS
#7 - Oskar Holsteiner - ST - Age 24 - Holdenberg
#9 - Xíxì Êns - ST - Age 25 - Sabrefell Athletic
#22 - Stiin Siorrha'Asione - ST - Age 32 - Mallox

World Cup 81/82/83/84

Ponies in path of last 4 spot
Kristian Bernard
The Mail on Sunday Soccer Writer

Reporting from Vidial, Mriin:

The Commonwealth National Team will be aiming to measure themselves against one the best teams in the multiverse when they line up to face the Equestrian States in the quarterfinals of the AOCAF at Gold Field here later today.

The two sides have one previous meeting, a friendly in Stalliongrad prior to World Cup 80, where the hosts thrashed the debutants 3-0. Fast forward two World Cup appearances and the Ponies will again be a yardstick for Baker Park as they seek to make the semifinals for the first time in a senior tournament.

In four matches here, BP have alternated defensive struggles with dominating performances and Manager Pam Scott hopes they will be able to find a balance in between the two outcomes. "We are very wary of this Equestria side; they have experience, loads of talent and a real advantage over us physically. I don't know if their style surprised us when we played before, but we'll at the least not come in unprepared for it."

Forward Sabrina Patton has been the go-to player for the Bees here; three goals in three matches will put her on the radar of the opponents defense, and it will take another balanced offensive display—7 different players have a goal apiece—to open up gaps for Patton and her running mates in the front.

Scott has experimented here in Mriin with wrinkles to the tactical style Baker Park is known for, and for the most part she is satisfied and confident the way the squad have been able to adjust. Using less high press and relying more on quick transition in counterattacks has helped keep the side fresher at this stage, able to protect leads at the end of matches without the need to sacrifice scoring.

lineup vs Equestrian States
Gordon; Stephens, Day, Foreman; Yeomans, Hayes, Callum, Navarro; Coverstone; Wagner, Patton

by **Banija** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 7:49 pm

Banijans at the AOCAF respond to the debate at home- should Banija amend its gender separation in sports law?

The Banijan captain(left) and manager(Marcus Waters) at a pre-quarterfinal press conference

DOCKSIDE, HOSINGR, MRIIN- The eyes of the Banijan sporting world are all on Mriin, as Banija prepares to take on Cosumar in their third consecutive AOCAF quarterfinal. It is an exciting matchup for the Banijans- with Gitonga Kahara joining OAS Royal FC, and Ensa Camara already playing for the Zakhora Aces in the Härlighet Ligan, and a number of Cosumarite managers making a big time impact in the BSL, especially Brian Emerson of Herzegovina City, there are deep sporting ties between the two nations. However, they have never faced each other competitively- their only matchup being a 5-1 drubbing that Cosumar gave the Banijans in a friendly- in Banija. The gulf between the two teams has certainly closed since then, but the question is- how much? Can the Banijans slay the star studded Dragon?

There is certainly quality in the Banijan squad. Gitonga Kahara getting the big buy from OAS Royal FC, of course, makes him the second Banijan to play in a Top 4 league- alongside Chibuzo Afolayan, the captain and winger on the other side. With Toyuwa Okafor leading the attack from the front, they have a lethal combination up top that is enough to give the best teams trouble. But what has been key to the Banijans success in this tournament, is defense. They haven't conceded since their opening match, meaning three straight games where they haven't conceded. A 3-0 win against Audioslavia, then a 0-0 draw against Lochario, followed by a 2-0 win over Tropicorp, their defense can play. They will have their hands full with Vega Zeale-Riddick & Romikk Valgard up front- what kind of strategy will they use to stop them? The strike pair have already lifted the AOCAF once, just three tournaments ago, the last edition to not feature the Banijans- so Marcus Waters will have to be innovative to try and stop them.

Their pre match press conferences, just a day before the match, focused a lot on that. But a question from a Busukuma Times reporter really set it out straight- what were the team's opinions on the debate back home? A debate that has engulfed Banija politically, whether or not the ban on integrating professional sports teams should stand. The government, of course, backs its repeal, and people from across the political spectrum have been chiming in. Student groups from most of Banija's public universities have chimed in support of this legislation, while many conservative organizations have chimed in against the legislation. But the question, quite surprisingly, hasn't really been posed in front of NT members until now- how do they stand?

Marcus Waters, the manager, answered the question first- seemingly a roundabout endorsement of the proposal. "Well, this is a difficult issue that the country has to have an introspective discussion about" He said. "It takes a fundamental understanding- your sports can reflect your nation. National teams serve as ambassadors for your country, whether they want to or not. They are what many foreigners see of Banijans, they are many foreigners first and only exposure to the Kingdom. What do you want them to see? Do you want them to see athletes who fully reflect all of Banija's people? That's a question that, when this debate is resolved, that this country has to answer."

Chibuzo Afolayan, the captain, was far more direct. "I support the Katikkiro's proposal here." He stated outright. "There's no reason for our sports to be segregated by gender- more competition makes us better. You know, I go out and have played in Nephara for a number of seasons now. Many of the players, for their clubs, play for integrated club teams. So many nations had this discussion so long ago- why are we just starting this right now? It's overdue. If a woman is good enough to play for this team, then I would be proud to wear the armband beside Banijan's first female player."

Many other players on the national team pretty much echoed Afolayan's comments- though there was a striking divide. Many of Banija's foreign based players, many of whom play in integrated leagues, voiced strong support for the move. Players like Ensa Camara, Gitonga Kahara, etc... Who play abroad. However, the same cannot be said for Banija's home based players. While some certainly were strong supporters, like Jalang Ba, others were not so much- Berhane even refused to comment on the issue, which many pundits saw as opposing the move. The debate is carrying on, but expect more and more opinions on it as the Lukiiko moves closer to a vote.

by **Farfadillis** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 7:51 pm

Following Farfadillis' elimination from World Cup 81, the country had undergone complete societal collapse. The riots on the streets that had followed the national team's terrible performances quickly spun out of control. They intertwined with Rulandese terrorism, which had grown into full-on southern separatism, as Puerto Farolero, Karuvis and Szoirsia had joined the fray. To make matters worse, the storage of atomic bombs near the capital of Ferdullaele exploded, severely damaging both Ferdullaele and the nearby city of Frion, and completely erasing from the map a few villages. The government tried to clamp down on the populace, and things worsened further.

By the end, everything that had allowed Farfadillis to flourish as a nation was gone: the Rulandese mines had all collapsed simultaneously, the Faroleran forest caught fire and it broke all the records, any semblance of hierarchies was gone and most homes were left without water and electricity because the infrastructure was only standing due to sheer luck.

Those were the main things. However, there were a few more tragedies: a huge meteor hit a town in Karuvis, killing most of its inhabitants. The flying jellyfish had a particularly successful mating season. The record-breaking heatwave that had tortured the Szoirsians continued until early "winter". The Farf clubs had a terrible UICA season. The Rulandese terrorist attacks became even more frequent in the capital, as they smelled blood and were thirsty for vengeance. Jason, the last flamingo at the Faroleran zoo, died.

After the initial three months of chaos and destruction, things stabilized slightly. There were many casualties: about seven percent of the population. Conveniently, no relevant person related to football died. Still, the country was in a state of pure anarchy. The states were now only a collection of cities with little communication between them. Violent gangs began becoming the new rulers. Except in Ruland, of course. The Rulandese barely even registered the whole crisis to begin with.

Finally, one year later, it was finally time for the Farf national team to return to the AOCAF Cup. The team still had Çötàvíê at the helm because Alex Terán, president of both the country and the FFFF, had found no time to fire him... for understandable reasons. They'd had a patchy beginning to their campaign, tying with neigbours Geisenfried, beating Tropicorp and then getting decisively slaughtered by Saint Emelie, who'd entered the international stage only one year before, at the Baptism of Fire Farfadillis had hosted!

They'd snapped back into reality by the round of sixteen, beating the hosts with a stunning brace by their nowadays-best-player Xíxì Êns. In the quarterfinals they'd face Saint Emelie again, hoping to avenge their loss and recover some pride. A possible Southwestern Showdown awaited them in the semifinals.

Also, Çötàvíê's dementia has now reached unprecedented peaks. He's barely even aware of reality anymore. That could cause troubles to the team.

by **Mriin** » Sun Dec 02, 2018 8:09 pm

Cutoff || Quarterfinals
The quarterfinals, where the contenders rise above the pretenders.

Farfadillis 3–2 Saint Emelie || @Haven, Maal
Valanora 1–0 Siovanija and Teusland || @Seagate, Easthold

Baker Park 0–2 Equestrian States || @Gold Field, Vidial
Cosumar 1–0 Banija || @Dockside, Hosingr

Semifinal Pairings
Valanora v Farfadillis || @Haven, Maal
Cosumar v Equestrian States || @Iron Alley, Hosingr

by **Equestrian States** » Tue Dec 04, 2018 7:18 pm

-AOCAF CUP LVII - QUARTERFINALS-
"IT'S ABOUT DAMN TIME!"
Aarón Aiza and Luminesce score as Equestrians claim first regional semifinal berth
by Steve McNotapony

Baker Park 0-2 Equestrian States
at Gold Park in Vidial, Mriin
Attendance: 60,000
Scoring:

Aarón Aiza '11 (Apple Cobbler)

Luminesce '79 (Rosewing)

VIDIAL, Mriin - It took until their fifth match, but the Ponies seem to have finally hit their stride with a comfortable 2-0 quarterfinal win against up-and-comers Baker Park that clinched the Equestrian States their first ever appearance in the semifinals of the AOCAF Cup. Sluggish starts and an inability to land the decisive breakthrough against lower-ranked opponents defined the Ponies' first four games here in Mriin, much to frustration of fans and players alike, but the Equestrians put together a nearly flawless performance against the Baker Parkers that was more than enough to see them through to the tournament's penultimate round.

Manager Pearly White was clearly taking the challenge posed by the Bees seriously, stating in her pre-match press conference that she said Baker Park would be the Ponies' biggest obstacle yet to their ambitions of claiming the Equestrian States' first regional title. Baker Park has quickly risen through the ranks since qualifying for World Cup 80 in their debut cycle, establishing themselves as one of the teams to watch going forward. The Bees have pulled off more than a few upsets and came into the quarterfinals determined to add the Ponies to that rapidly-growing list of high-profile victims.

One reason for the Equestrians' struggles at this AOCAF Cup has been their unfortunate tendency to concede the first goal, frequently early in the match, allowing opponents to sit back and absorb the Ponies' pressure better than they could otherwise. With this in mind, the Equestrians didn't waste any time before taking the fight into the Bees' half, determined to score first. It was an uncharacteristically aggressive move from Pearly White and the Ponies, but it paid off when Aarón Aiza was played the ball at the top of the area with plenty of space in the 11th minute and coolly fired into the top right corner before Caroline Gordon had a chance to react.

Defending a lead, the Ponies can be nearly impossible to beat, particularly with the Equestrian counterattack feared throughout the multiverse for its lethal speed and precision, always ready to take advantage of any momentary weakness. Aiza's opener meant the Ponies could play how they wanted to, bogging down the ball in the midfield and probing for openings without the unwanted pressure of needing to score a goal. Baker Park was forced onto the offensive and looked a bit uncomfortable pushing forward, presumably wary of the Equestrian counter.

As the match progressed into the second half, the Bees were forced to take more and more risks in their quest for an equalizer, risks which allowed the Ponies to launch a few counterattacks that left the Baker Parkers scrambling back to defend. Pristina Shine rattled the post in the 64th minute and Rumble nearly got on the scoresheet a couple minutes later off a corner kick, his header barely cleared off the line by Sarah Foreman to keep the Bees within a goal. But Baker Park was playing with fire and finally got burned by Luminesce with just over ten minutes remaining. Turned loose by a Rosewing through-ball, the lithe unicorn midfielder raced into the final third, gracefully skirted around a helpless Caroline Gordon and tapped the ball into back of the net.

Down a couple goals and running out of time, the Bees had little choice but to go all-out. Pearly White made a couple tactical substitutions, bringing on defenders Krysia Bailey and Flitter to reinforce the Ponies' back line. With 94 minutes gone, Baker Park won a corner kick and Pam Scott pushed everyone into the box in a last-ditch effort to keep her side alive. Striker Sabrina Patton got her foot to the ball, but was denied by the diving Gentle Breeze, who clutched the ball to her chest before firing it clear. The final whistle blew and the rest of the Equestrian team streamed onto the pitch.

Picked up amidst the celebration on the Equestrian States broadcast was the unmistakable voice of long-time Ponies star Rainbow Blitz: "It's about damn time!"

AOCAF CUP LVII - QUARTERFINALS RESULTS
 Farfadillis 3–2 Saint Émelie 
@ Haven in Maal, MRN
 Valanora 1–0 Siovanija & Teusland 
@ Seagate in Easthold, MRN
 Baker Park 0–2 Equestrian States 
@ Gold Field in Vidial, MRN
 Cosumar 1–0 Banija 
@ Dockside in Hosingr, MRN

Meanwhile, on the other side of the bracket, Farfadillis and Valanora took care of business against Saint Émelie and Siovanija & Teusland respectively, the two highest-ranked teams remaining in the competition each winning by a goal against the lowest-ranked quarterfinalists. Neither result came as a surprise, though after Siovanija & Teusland's stunning second round upset of defending champions Vilita & Turori and Saint Émelie's equally unbelievable group stage thrashing of the Farves, few pundits were willing to stake their professional reputations on calling either result a foregone conclusion. Both the Goldhorns and Insulaires will surely be back in future competitions and should be more than proud of what they accomplished here in Mriin, the Siovanijans in particular might even have earned dark horse odds of qualifying for the next World Cup with their outing.

But the most anticipated quarterfinal fixture happened in Hosingr, pitting the up-and-coming Kadongo Kamu of Banija against the Azure Dragons of Cosumar. It didn't disappoint. A tense affair which kept neutrals hooked and stressed the hell out of Banijan and Cosumarite supporters alike, neither team was able to get the upper hand until Bryger Tidesson put the Azure Dragons ahead late in the second half. Tidesson's goal was just enough for the Cosumarites to end the Banijans' hopes for a semifinal showdown against their biggest rivals, much to the dismay of media executives dreaming of the ratings bonanza that would accompany such a grudge match. The Kadongo Kamu's never-ending quest for their first ever win against the Ponies will have to wait at least a little longer.

AOCAF CUP LVII - SEMIFINALS FIXTURES
 Farfadillis vs. Valanora 
@ Haven in Maal, MRN
 Equestrian States vs. Cosumar 
@ Iron Alley in Hosingr, MRN

But even without the tantalizing tensions of an established rivalry in the second semifinal fixture, both matches should provide more than enough intrigue to capture the interest of neutrals, even outside of Atlantian Oceania. In Maal, it will be a classic Southwest Showdown between the 3rd-ranked La Vherderoja of Farfadillis and the 2nd-ranked Marauders of Valanora. The Vanorians and Farves are both long-time competitors in the AOCAF Cup and have met 12 times previously in the tournament's history, including nine times in the knockout stage and three in AOCAF Cup Finals. Of the 18 matches that the two Southwest hoofball powers have played at the AOCAF Cup and World Cup, the Vanorians have won nine, the Farves six, and two ended in draws. In the last few years, however, it has been the La Vherderoja who have been the better team, winning three of the last five meetings, including at last year's AOCAF quarterfinals. More recently, the Marauders have been in better form and thus will likely be slight favorites to advance to their eighth AOFCAF Cup Final, but when these two sides meet the only thing that's certain is that you'll get to see a hell of a match.

However, the match that every Equestrian hoofball fan will be anticipating is - of course - the 7th-ranked Ponies' clash with the 5th-ranked Azure Dragons of Cosumar at Hosingr's Iron Alley. One could easily make the argument that it will be the biggest game in Equestrian hoofball history, only possibly rivaled by the under-21 national team's victory in the 27th Di Bradini Cup Final against long-time rivals Free Republics or the Ponies' upset of Chromatika in the second round of the 80th World Cup on home soil. Never before has the senior team made it this deep in a major international tournament, only previously reaching the semifinals in minor competitions such as the Runner Cup or Market Cup. The Equestrians and Cosumarites last met in a friendly prior to World Cup 81 at The Crownlands in Manehattan, the Ponies coming out of that match 4-3 victors; but the Ponies and Azure Dragons otherwise don't have much of a shared history, their only competitive fixtures coming all the way back during World Cup 61 qualifying. Both sides are more or less equally matched, with no shortage of talent or ambition in either squad, and should put on quite a show in Hosingr as they battle for the opportunity to play for a regional title.

by **Farfadillis** » Tue Dec 04, 2018 7:55 pm

The Farf team entered the pitch hoping to make an entire nation - or what was left of it - proud. To give them a break from their tragic reality. They'd be facing Saint Emelie, the same team that had very much destroyed them in the group stages, four to one. By all accounts, they'd been completely outplayed. The players blamed it on a variety of reasons. Jet lag, the situation back home, the terrible Mrii cuisine and "sheer luck" were the most common excuses. The truth was, however, that they had a lot to prove. And they were on time to prove it, cause a win would send them through to the semifinals of the tournament, probably against Valanora, who at this point were certainly friendly rivals of sorts.

The locals seemed to support Saint Emelie. For obvious reasons, really. They'd been eliminated rather unfairly by la Vherderoja at home, while Saint Emelie were the underdogs. Still, the difference in support wasn't too evident and, at any rate, it would never have made the Farves scared.

As soon as the game began, some of Çötàvíê's instructions became crystal clear: prevent counterattacks at any cost and attack a lot. The ravings of this mad man made contradictions arise soon enough, obviously: as many as five players stayed back at times while the other five lunged forward furiously. This lead to terrible defensive positioning. Saint Emelie began causing strife as a result. Another instruction that became very obvious as the minutes went on was that Sara Katjanović had to be heavily man-marked. At the very least one player was on her at any given moment.

The players seemed to be following the gaffer's orders a bit too much; Eleonóra kept going for crosses even though they were being cleared time and time again and Wínrôuge was absolutely failing at dribbling past three players to get into the box. Meanwhile, Saint Emelie kept getting chance after chance on the counter, as the manager's faulty instructions were doing little to alleviate the pressure on the defense.

Eventually, the floodgates opened, and Saint Emelie pulled two goals ahead. Funnily enough, by virtue of their star striker.

The first goal came thirty minutes in. Simon Pelletier picked up the ball a few meters form the box with plenty of space, thanks to both Bajnók and Básá being on Katjanović. He proceeded to unleash a rocket on Metz, who managed to stop the shot despite it being rather well-placed. He couldn't help but give up an understandable rebound, though. Katjanović was quicker than her markers and pounced on said rebound first, sentencing the Farf team to a chase for an equalizer with a gentle shot into an almost-empty goal.

The goal seemed to spur the Farf players on. They got really close to scoring shortly after. First, Xíxì Êns pulled off a rather ridiculous solo play that he failed to capitalize on by skying his shot over the crossbar from close range. It could've been the goal of the tournament. After that, just two minutes later, a Wínrôuge free kick was almost headed in by Holsteiner, but Joubert got a hand to it rather inexplicably and so managed to keep Saint Emelie ahead.

Just as Farfadillis were finally looking like the dominant team, and also just as the first half was about to end, Saint Emelie scored the second goal. A long pass from Bastereud was impeccably controlled by Katjanović, who dribbled past both Básá and Bajnók, then chipped the ball past Metz to knock Farfadillis out on the eyes of most people. They'd lost 4-1 in the group stage, and many figured they were about to meet a similar fate in this game.

Half time came and went. Nobody will ever know what was said to the Farves in the dressing room, but many will forever wonder, because the change was evident. The first ten minutes were the most intense. Farfadillis pulled off a continuous onslaught that seemed to never end. Holsteiner tested Joubert twice, a Sasca shot grazed the left post and Eleonóra seemed to be fouled inside the box, though no penalty was given. All in a matter of ten minutes.

Then, the reality of having to score two goals seemed to set in at last, and the Farves became desperate, opening up opportunities for Saint Emelie, which put them back in the game. Just as they were beginning to get a few chances which were giving them breathing space, la Vherderoja finally struck.

The goal that would begin the comeback was scored by the most unlikely of heroes: Mârtín Básá. The leftback ventured forward because of the team's desperation, and made it all the way into the box even though it was none of his business. His well-timed run met a very precise Sasca pass at its end. He collided with Holsteiner cause he was actually playing as a striker at that point, then proceeded to fire off a shot to the lower-right corner. This one was, finally, too much for Joubert to handle. With thirty minutes to go, Farfadillis finally looked like they had reasonable chances of making the semifinals again.

The goal turned the game into an all-Farf affair. Saint Emelie started defending in order to preserve their lead, while Farfadillis' spirits had been raised by the unlikely hero's exploits up front. This showed specially in Marchiondo, the other fullback, who began trying to copy his teammate, something the rest of the team didn't seem too happy with.

Until he scored the equalizer, that is. Wínrôuge picked the ball up close to the box and proceeded to attempt to make his way into it by virtue of his now-somewhat-gone explosive dribbling skill. He failed for the thousandth time, but the defender didn't quite manage to clear the ball well. Groaré Sasca picked the ball up, got rid of his marker with a well-timed feint, then sent a through ball to Marchiondo, who once again had tried to venture into the box. Without any space, Marchiondo controlled the ball and shot between the goalkeeper's legs. Two-two and twenty minutes to go.

The equalizer scared Saint Emelie. It also completely revived Farfadillis. "For our people!" Wçêíl shouted. "They deserve good news!" He raised his fist into the air while preparing for a free kick. From then on, the Farves were simply frenetic, leaving no chance for Saint Emelie to react. They barely even got out of their own half for the ten minutes following the equalizer.

Xíxì Êns scored the third one, the one that put the team ahead. A powerful shot from der Pros was stopped by Joubert, but Holsteiner got to the rebound, albeit heavily marked. He rushed back in an attempt to get enough space to shoot, but to no avail. Despite being a selfish douchebag, he passed the ball Xíxì, who was perfectly positioned to go for one of his signature finessse shots. "Videogame shot" as the kids called it nowadays. Despite lacking strength, the shot was too good for Joubert. With ten to go, Farfadillis were now winning. One of the supposedly best teams in the Multiverse beating a team of nobodies shouldn't be an underdog story, but with the circumstances surrounding the game, it almost seemed like one.

The subsequent ten minutes featured a toothless Saint Emelie side trying to get a miraculous equalizer. It never came, but Farfadillis came close to scoring a fourth on a couple of occasions. Finally, the Farves collapsed on the pitch. They were tired, but very happy. They felt they were finally making their people proud again.

What they didn't know, of course, was that no Farf at home could watch the game because of electricity failure. But it's true, back home they would have been proud.

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Tue Dec 04, 2018 8:12 pm

Late Bryger Tidesson strike spoils Banijan hopes of historic run

by Julie Nicholson
Courier Sports Editor

H O S I N G R -- Before the AOCAF quarterfinal against Banija, Alexander Pearce promised the assembled press that his team would need to squeeze out every last ounce effort at Dockside that evening if they were to return to their third regional semifinal in four editions after an early exit last time around. He cited Banija's sense of inevitability in this AOCAF and his admiration for opposite number Marcus Waters' attention-to-detail after breaking down their tape.

Leaning forward towards the podium microphone in the chair to Pearce's left, a confident Romikk Valgard sporting a fresh spiky haircut then assured the assembled press - to Pearce's thinly-veiled discomfort - that they would, in fact, do just that: leave it all out on the pitch and walk away with victory.

While the Kadongo Kamu lived up to Pearce's promise, testing Cosumar's limits both physically and tactically in a tense and fast-paced affair, it was goalkeeper Shjegrzh Na'Kefir and an enlivened Bryger Tidesson who made sure that Valgard lived up to his.

Tidesson buried the only goal of the game in the 73rd minute after Na'Kefir had already made three of his four vital saves as the more experienced Cosumarites vanquished Banija's spirited AOCAF medal hopes with a 1-0 victory. The win, Cosumar's fifth in a row in the tournament, will ensure that the Oceanian northeast - once the region's consensus soccer epicenter - is not embarrassingly shut out entirely from the final four. Although the balance of power in Atlantian Oceania seems to be shifting southwest, Cosumar can keep the spirit of the old Glorious Northeast and COCANEFA glory days going if they extend their winning streak to seven here in Mriin.

Banija entered the quarterfinal after a patchier 1-1-1 group phase, but admittedly played much tougher competition in a "Group of Death" that included Valanora and Audioslavia and were coming off a sound 2-0 victory over Tropicorp, who have given superior sides plenty of issues in the past. The Vanquishers were enjoying momentum of their own after the cathartic release of the 4-1 win over Euran Oceania Territories after three prior matches that were closer than they could or should have been. In a nutshell, the match promised to be a fiery one with both teams flying high and feeling all that's at stake for their respective programs. Banija trying to keep their arrow pointing up, Cosumar trying to dispel whispers that the arrow was starting to tilt back downward.

In the end, though the slightly-favored blue-and-white won out, both teams can be said to have accomplished those goals with their performance.

It all came down to a sequence without about fifteen minutes left - Bryger's winner. Hovering on the right, Tidesson was in the right place to collect Isla Sibučić's deflected attempt to force a through ball down the center throat of the Banijan defense after it bounced out to him. After 73 minutes of some of the hardest two-way running up and down the pitch we've ever seen from the former Real Azuris star, he was... pretty gassed at this point. So, with no Banijan defender immediately forthcoming to close him down way out on the top-right corner of the box, he almost lazily slapped off a tame shot from where he stood despite gaping open space down the flank. But when you're as talented as Bryger, sometimes you can get away with a moment of laziness. The shot that looked like it started with him mentally shrugging to himself ("fuck it, why not") nestled itself - with a skip and a hop - perfectly into the side-netting just inside the far post.

You couldn't have walked it out there any better.

After a scoreless first half, Banija had pressed hard for a goal early in the second half. Na'Kefir made a "get-down-lightning-fast" stop on a Gitonga Kahara shot that was headed for the lower left corner in the 49th minute. AFC Corvistone's Chibuzo Afolayan then took a pass near the top of the 18-yard box in the 53rd minute, spun and took a right-footed shot that Na-Kefir was forced to push wide with a dive to his left.

But with Banija starting to press forward, somewhat naïve and desperate for their breakthrough, young Cosumarite midfielder Kai-Kai Mokumdarian dispossessed Okonkwo Okparro, raced several yards unopposed and nearly caught goalkeeper Assefa Berhane out of the net on a shot from nearly midfield in the 50th minute. Fortunately for Berhane, his long chip sailed just high of the crossbar and landed on top of the netting. Many fans at Dockside saw the net ripple and thought it had been a goal for the AOCAF history books.

Vega Zeale-Riddick had the best chance of the physical, somewhat sloppy first half, but her bullet header from just inside the penalty box was saved by Berhane.

Now, in their third-ever AOCAF semifinal, the Vanquishers will march on to take on the fatherland of the manager that just gave them all they could handle: Marcus Waters. The 49-year-old, of course, is from Equestria, and his crossover is merely one element of the multifaceted rivalary that has emerged between Banija and their southwestern rivals, Equestrian States. It will remind Cosumarite readers of our own burgeoning rivalry with Chromatika a few years ago - one that was also melded and shaped in this very competition.

You can expect another interesting tactical battle against Equestrian States, a side that has a lot of different types of interesting physical and technical talent at their disposal, such as vaunted HL-based playmaker Cloudchaser. We'll predict a reversal of the 4-3 friendly loss from last cycle and go with a 3-2 victory for Cosumar.

Either way, the Azure Dragons won't be done when they walk off the pitch at Iron Alley. Either way, a medal game awaits. As such, from the outside, this AOCAF can only be considered a success and a promising return to pre-WC81 form.

But actually being happy with a bronze pendant around your neck? That's one prize you'll never hear Alexander Pearce or Romikk Valgard promise.

by **Valanora** » Tue Dec 04, 2018 8:31 pm

A footballer's pride is up there with their talent in what is quite important to them, as their pride is swelled by the success that their talent brings them. For a few years now, Vanorian footballing pride has been taking hits, though it is still held in quite high esteem thanks to the likes of Laborious Hawk, Espy va Drake, and the rest of the hero quartet. However with the loss of the record for continuous qualifications nearly two decades and the loss of the rankings that the Marauders once had, not to mention the amount of talented footballer's that The Calling took, what was once such a high amount of pride has been brought down low. Yet still, there is that small detail of that the Marauders are the most successful side to have ever grace the World Cup, a not so small factor in motivating dozens of future footballers to consider donning the crossed scimitars of the Marauders kit. There is one significant matter of the AOCAF though, where the former glory of Pacitalia still casts a long shadow that even the magnificent trophy cabinets that the Marauders or Starblaydii can rival.

With four AOCAFs to their credit, the Marauders are creeping upon that magnificent record that the eastern powerhouse still calls their own and this group of players has managed to overcome the disappointment of their early World Cup exit to see themselves into the Semifinals of this current AOCAF. It is quite fitting that the Marauders will be dueling with Farfadillis, a rival that has been dueled with far more often the last few tournaments than it was before. Both nations are part of the Southwestern part of the region, fondly called the Glorious Southwest by some of the citizenry in jest when competing with those in the Northeast and Calania for what part of the region contains the best sportsmen and women. It is a rivalry that has been marked in high amount of goals and players who have played in both leagues, with places on trophies or in Finals themselves the prize for the winning team in this hotly contested local rivalry.

With such an unheralded amount of players, bar the Hero Quartet and Smordal, this team of Marauders has it all to do, despite having seemingly rolled through the tournament up to this point. The Quarterfinal match against the upstarts of Siovanija & Teusland showing there are blemishes in the Marauders formidable honor and talent. Those blemishes will be all too easy for a team as talented as the Farves have to exploit, and yet we have the pride that all of those that once wore this shirt before and have accumulated all of the trophies that sit in the Hatire Memorial. Farfadillis has the talent to win and in all honesty should take their place in the Final, but for ninety minutes, I do not see why we can not capture the majesty, the grace, and the fortitude that made the Marauders of old the most feared team in all of the fotballing world to face. A double quest for five is on the table and then dreams of six both in the region and in the most important tournament of them all.

by **Mriin** » Tue Dec 04, 2018 8:37 pm

Cutoff || Semifinals
Will we see a miracle? Will it be enough?

Valanora 1–2 Farfadillis || @Haven, Maal
Cosumar 1–1 Equestrian States (2–1 AET) || @Iron Alley, Hosingr

3PPO
Valanora v Equestrian States || @Iron Alley, Hosingr

Final
Cosumar v Farfadillis || @Haven, Maal

by **Banija** » Wed Dec 05, 2018 9:46 pm

Kadongo Kamu fall at familiar hurdle with tight, 1-0 loss to Cosumar

Cosumarites celebrate Bryger Tidesson's winner in quarterfinal match

DOCKSIDE, HOSINGR, MRIIN- The Banijans certainly put up a fight in this tournament. Did they have a stellar group stage? While they lost to the top ranked Vanorians, that was expected, and their big-time 3-0 win over a nation like Audioslavia was always going to earn plaudits. They recovered from a poorly played 0-0 draw with Lochario to have a well-earned 2-0 victory over Tropicorp in the Round of 16 of this prestigious tournament. And then, of course, came a matchup against the AOCAF 54 champions- none other than Cosumar. The Azure Dragons had bigger dreams beyond the Banijans to realize- a legitimate favorite to bring home silverware, and they had the talent level to actually realize those ambitions.

It was a tight match, with opportunities for both sides. Both of Banija's star wingers had opportunities to put the Banijans on the scoreboard, but neither of them could deliver. The Cosumarite keeper made excellent diving saves to deny both Kahara and Afolayan in the 49th and 53rd minutes, respectively. The first quarter of an hour of the second half being Banija's best spell of the match. But their failure to finish in front of goal proved to be their downfall, as the Azure Dragons were able to make the most of their opportunities. While Waters tactics and the backline did a great job of keeping the forwards away from goal, they simply did not have an answer for Bryger Tidesson. It was he who would score the winner in the 73rd minute, and for the third straight AOCAF, deny the Banijans progress from this stage of the dance.

We sat down with the manager, Marcus Waters, for an interview regarding the state of the national team and his thoughts on the tournament.

Interviewer: "Thank you, Marcus, for sitting down with me. How did you feel this tournament went for the team?"

Marcus Waters: "Well, I have to say- I am happy with where this team is at. We always talking about continuing to take steps forward, and learn from the best. We play in the toughest region in the multiverse to win a championship- and it is that competition that will make us better\. We've had an excellent run over the last few years, making 3 straight quarterfinal appearances in our first three appearances in the AOCAF. You know, there are three nations to play in the quarterfinals of each of the last three editions of this tournament- there is Valanora, who have 5 World Cup titles. There is Farfadillis, who are ranked in the top 5 of the KPB rankings and who have won this tournament twice before, and there is this team. We don't have their history. We haven't played in 20 AOCAFs like they have. But we work hard, we are well organized, and it is an extremely tough accomplishment that I am extremely proud of.

Interviewer: "Marcus, what did you think about individual performances? Who stood out to you?"

Marcus Waters: "I think we have a couple of players who made some good strides. We've come off the high of hosting a World Cup Finals- but now we need to continue moving forward, and keep building. I think Jalang Ba seperated himself as an elite center back in this tournament- stepping in calmly for Wasa Jawo, a legend in this country, and playing stand out defense. We went three straight matches without conceding- and Jalang Ba was at the center of that. Winning his tackles, winning his headers, not making foolish mistakes- he won't make any highlight videos, but the type of player every winning team needs, no matter where you play.

Another player who I was happy with was Ablie Kah. He's a young player, and he was thrust into this role- a starting central midfielder for the Kadongo Kamu. But he handled the pressure with grace. He was strong in the midfield throughout the tournament, holding his own against some of the region's best. Of course, he has a long way to go in his own personal development- we saw Bryger Tidesson seperate himself from Ablie Kah to score the quarterfinal's lone goal. He has a bright career ahead of him, and I look forward to him being an integral part of this team's future for the long-term."

Interviewer: "Marcus, what's the future for this team? Who is the future? Where do we go from here?"

Marcus Waters: "Because of the ways the cycles align, we have will a few great opportunities to have our young players put on the jersey, and it will give me a great chance to conduct evaluations. I was able to manage myself at the 42nd Di Bradini Cup- a tournament where our U21s got third place. Of course, focusing on our World Cup bid to host World Cup 81 did not allow us to send a team to the 43rd Di Bradini Cup- finances and what not. But we will be back at the 44th Di Bradini Cup, and I will be able to simply focus on evaluating talent, rather than managing the team itself.

And then, shortly after that, are the Summer Olympics. A U23+3 tournament for the men. Both a men's and women's team will be entering from Banija, which will once again afford me the opportunity to evaluate the teams. For both events, I intend to not only evaluate on games- but the practices. Get to know some of the players in the youth pool, know what people like, know their dislikes, know their attitudes. How do you approach practice? How do you handle adversity? These are all important questions as we move towards having to inject fresh blood into the player pool."

The rest of the interview, of course, can be found at our website. It is us, signing off from Mriin as the 57th edition of the AOCAFs draws to a close.

by **Equestrian States** » Thu Dec 06, 2018 7:06 pm

-AOCAF CUP LVII - THIRD PLACE PLAYOFF-
PREVIEW: THE RIVALRY THAT ISN'T
Equestrians to face neighboring Vanorians in a rare meeting for the bronze
by Steve McNotapony

HOSINGR, Mriin - Just two matches remain in the 57th edition of the AOCAF Championship: the Final between Farfadillis and Cosumar, and the third-place playoff between Valanora and the Equestrian States. Unfortunately, the Ponies were unable to overcome the Cosumarites in the semifinals, falling to the Azure Dragons in extra time, but the Equestrians will have the opportunity to finish the tournament on a high note as they play for a bronze medal against their southern neighbors from Valanora.

Considering the proximity of the two southwestern nations and their status as two of the current top hoofball powers in the region, one would expect that there would be a fairly fierce rivalry between their national teams. However, neither the Equestrians or the Vanorians consider each other to be their top rival, nor would many fans in either nation be likely to even list the other among their team's rivals. In fact, the Ponies and Marauders have only met once before: way back in the group stage of the Cup of Champions prior to the 69th World Cup, the Vanorians winning 1-0 at Sky-High Coliseum. Even at the club level, there's very little overlap between the United League and the Vanorian Premiership, only a couple Equestrians having played for Vanorian sides and the only Vanorian currently in the Equestrian top flight being Cloudsdale Flyers manager Jens Dahlberg.

So why isn't there a Ponies-Marauders rivalry? The Equestrians have had no problem establishing hoofball connections with other southwestern nations like Farfadillis, Banija, and Qasden, so why not Valanora? It's hard to say, really. In international tournaments, the two national teams have simply not been drawn against each other and the Ponies haven't always been consistent enough over the years to make deep runs to where they might be more likely to meet the Vanorians. At the club level, the Vanorian Premiership is considered far superior to the United League, which means that its teams have their pick of the entire multiverse and simply don't sign many Equestrians. Of course, one could make the argument that Vanorian sides should sign more Ponies stars to draw in the nearby wealthy Equestrian market, but that hasn't happened yet.

Will the upcoming third-place playoff signal the beginning of a new rivalry between the Equestrians and Vanorians? Only time will tell. Regardless of what becomes of the rivalry, however, Equestrian supporters are chomping at the bit for the Ponies to announce their arrival as a serious contender at both the multiversal and regional levels and a win against an established power like Valanora would certainly achieve that.

#2 - Valanora
AOCAF Cup Appearance: 30th (AOCAF Cups 27, 29-57)
Best Result: 4x Champions (AOCAF Cups 44, 46, 51, 53)
Manager:

Tobias Möller
Group Stage: 2-0-1 (1st in Group F)
Knockout Stage: Won 4-2 vs.

Saltstead (Ro16), Won 1-0 vs.

Siovanija & Teusland (QF), Lost 1-2 vs.

Farfadillis (SF)
Starting XI (3-5-2): S. Smørdal (GK, #1); S. Vásquez (LB, #3); L. Soltvedt (CB, #4); I. Fjørtoft (RB, #2); Y. Hatsune (CM, #6); F. Soldarian (CM, #7); E. va Drake (LM, #21); L. Hawk (AM, #10); I. Lithvathar (RM, #8); A. Fresco (ST, #9); M. Skaar (ST, #11); Full Roster

The Marauders crashed out of the 81st World Cup in the group stage, but entered the AOCAF Cup with their eyes fixed on winning a fifth regional title. In the group stage, the Vanorians easily cruised through to the knockouts, only falling on the final day against Audioslavia in a match they had no stakes in. From there it was smooth sailing to the semifinals with wins against Saltstead and Siovanija & Teusland. In the semifinals, however, the Farves took down the Marauders in a Southwest Showdown classic, relegating the Vanorians to the bronze medal match against the Equestrian States. The Vanorians enter tonight's match with a stellar record in third-place fixtures at both the AOCAF Cup and World Cup: twelve wins to just three losses. Their team is tried and tested and boasts one of the multiverse's all-time greats in Laborious Hawk and will be eager to take out their frustrations at being denied the chance to play for another regional title against the Ponies.

#7 - Equestrian States
AOCAF Cup Appearance: 8th (AOCAF Cups 47-50, 54-57)
Best Result: Quarterfinals (AOCAF Cup 55)
Manager:

Pearly White
Group Stage: 1-2-0 (1st in Group E)
Knockout Stage: Won 2-1 AET vs.

Semarland (Ro16), Won 2-0 vs.

Baker Park (QF), Lost 1-2 AET vs.

Cosumar (SF)
Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Gentle Breeze (GK, #1); B. Hamilton (LB, #12); A. Molovi (CB, #8); Rumble (CB, #4); K. Bailey (RB, #19); Cloudchaser (CM, #2); Apple Cobbler (CM, #5); Luminesce (LM, #16); Rainbow Blitz (AM, #9); A. Aiza (RM, #25); Pristina Shine (ST, #10); Full Roster

While the Marauders' star might be dimming in recent years, the Ponies are one of the multiverse's most-improved teams in the last few cycles, reaching two World Cup quarterfinals, breaking into the top ten in both the regional and World Cup rankings, and now playing in a regional medal match for the first time ever. Powered by a roster brimming with superstar talent, the Ponies aren't a team to be taken lightly. The Equestrian back line is among the multiverse's best and will pose a serious challenge to the Vanorians' high-octane attack, with the Ponies' counterattack waiting to spring at whatever opportunities may arise. Pearly White has a deep bench to draw from, and will have her team eager to prove itself as a legitimate contender after years as a dark horse.

Expert Predictions

Steve McNotapony (ESPN Hoofball)
These two teams are pretty evenly-matched when it comes to raw talent, with the Ponies and Marauders' world-class superstars cancelling each other out. Managers Pearly White and Tobias Möller aren't far apart either, so I think this match will likely come down to who wants it more. If it does, I like the Equestrians' chances. They're playing like a team with something to prove and will have their eyes set on claiming their first ever medal in a major tournament. Steve McNotapony's Pick:

Equestrian States

Bicycle Kick (Canterlot Daily Journal)
The third-place playoff? Who cares about that? Oh right, the Ponies are in it this year. Huh. Well, with the Marauders' record in these sorts of games, it's hard to pick against them, especially considering the Equestrians' history of falling just short at the final hurdle. The Ponies will keep things close, but I think they'll have to settle for a semifinals participation ribbon. Bicycle Kick's Pick:

Valanora

Matez-Gerol Niz (Blip kujz Evarty Kolla, Qusmo)
Espy va Drake will be looking to make a moment of magic from the Marauders’ midfield, but the Equestrian States has a Brix Wall standing in their way. Aarón Aiza will hope to take advantage of the opportunity to represent his nation after dominance in the Banijan Soccer League, but Sean Smørdal will be focussed on ensuring it is wasted in order to open up an opportunity for himself in the Nepharim Premiership. Yes, twenty-two players might be on the pitch, but don’t let that fool you; it will really come down to just two: Laborious Hawk and Gentle Breeze. The World Cup Hall of Famer is the captain of this team. He is the general who can marshal his soldiers forward on the attack or order an orderly retreat to prevent taking damage on the defense. And if his charges don’t get the job done, he can charge forward - and when that happens, watch out. Gentle Breeze, meanwhile, will be tasked with keeping Hawk and the rest of the Vanorians out. Don’t let the fact that this is the Equestrian States’ first time past the quarterfinals of a major tournament fool you: with her club, Gentle Breeze has been on some of the Multiverse’s biggest stages before. She knows what it’s like to have to find a miracle to keep their hopes of glory afloat, and they know how to do it, too. These two players are undeniable stars, and they’re stars for a reason: they have the ability to single-handedly change the course of a match. One will, and theirs will be the team which takes home bronze. Matez-Gerol Niz's Pick:

Valanora

Nikki Kater ("Garbage Time" podblog, Vilita)
The Vanorians hate to lose and they hate even more having to play in matches that won't eventually lead them to a championship. The fact that they are being forced to play the game is sure to piss them off which may make them an even stronger team on the day - or could result in them making critical mistakes that an otherwise motivated Equestrian States side could take advantage of. For the ponies, they will be looking for a signature accomplishment of their regional sporting history having never before claimed a medal placement in an AOCAF Cup. This could make them dangerously motivated or could result in nerves getting the best of them and forcing sloppy play that their experienced foes can take advantage of to soften the blow of their semi final defeat. In short, someone may win, but they will both lose in the end regardless. Nikki Kater's Pick: Nobody (Editor's Note: We couldn't get Nikki to actually make a pick, so this'll have to do)

OOC Note: Thanks to Qusmo and Vilita for providing Matez-Gerol Niz and Nikki Kater's predictions.

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