WC 82 RP Thread

by **Ko-oren** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 12:49 pm

We rely on Ethane again

The recent successes in baseball and the better-than-expected play in ice hockey, as well as other sports, make Ko-orenite fans a little demanding. The Dragonflies respond with sub-par play and cannot manage to win more than 50% of their matches, in a group that seemed so ripe for the taking. Bongo Johnson triumphed over Ko-oren in the last match, effectively ending our ambition to win this group. At the same time, it also makes it very hard for the Dragonflies to conquer second place, which is now Damukuni's for the taking with just two games to go. As everyone knows, especially in the results-first environment of Ko-orenite soccer, it only matters what the standings are after 18 games. Still, the current play and results don't give us much to go on.

Juliasterinthen presented an earth-shattering change to the national team's play, in which the 5-3-2 is altered to a 4-4-2 in possession. It might not seem much, and many teams will consider a 4-4-2 a little conservative in possession, but to most followers of Green and Blue soccer, this is a big difference. In this system, one defender is free to go upfield to be an extra link in midfield. We've seen some counterattacks from Dalton or Brogley running up the wing, and we've seen some dominating spells of possession when Lampshire or Mizuno move up. This has given us numerical advantages in midfield and has helped us tremendously in keeping the number of goals conceded down. Opposing attackers are taking considerably fewer shots at Theshendan and Ko-oren are again among the Multiverse's best defending teams.

But everything breaks down when possession goes lost, and the team has to transition back into a 5-3-2. Players just expect that extra defender to be there at the back when the likes of Damukuni, Bongo Johnson, Ethane and Siovanija and Teusland come back at us. Good passes, finding the free man and exploiting a poorly thought out defensive structure has been at the root of most of our goals conceded. It's funny how using two different structures, one in defence and one in attack, is such a staple in international soccer while Ko-oren just cannot seem to execute it. Bongo Johnson's lone goal came from a corner kick, but it's all clear once you see where that corner was given away. Three attackers found space against Dalton, Van Schelven and Mizuno, as Lampshire was still tracking back. Dalton stepped in, hoping that Van Schelven could take the outermost position. The Straudum centreback maintained his position in the middle of the field, a well-placed pass into the space vacated by Dalton found Bongald and Theshendan only just could get a hand to his attempt at goal. The ensuing corner kick was a free-for-all when the ball got to Bongald again, and this time he struck it with power, leaving Theshendan without a chance. That single shot has probably ended the Ko-orenite hope to win the group.

Wait, we're only a point behind, and Damukuni are dropping almost as many points as us.

Sure, but now Ethane is also back in the mix. Damukuni has a two point lead over us, and a three point lead over Ethane.

We can pretend like the Greenblues can win these final two games, but experience teaches us that this is not a team that can shut down games. And if they can, they can absolutely not find the net. We have averaged under a goal per game. We have yet to play Siovanija and Teusland, and while they are (almost) eliminated from World Cup contention, they can play spoiler again. Next are the Euran Oceania Territories, who have fought back very well from their near last place exercise earlier in the group stage.

Damukuni still play Ethane and Spokane. Ethane still have Damukuni and Freeport on the menu. Basically, nobody plays the nations that are seriously far down the KPB rankings - anyone can beat anyone here. The one redeeming factor is that Damukuni and Ethane still play each other. With an Ethane win, and a Ko-oren win, we're back in the driving seat for the last round with a win-and-in situation. But who are we kidding. We can't win 50% of our games, so why would we close out the group stage with two victories?

Just watch how Ethane and Ko-oren win, just like we wanted - only to see Ethane secure qualification on the final day.

by **Geektopia** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 1:08 pm

The final replacement in the GKTA national team. It has been known that Repeteds has more potential for the team than Tethra Tope, we will see what impact he will make on his debut game.

Satilly, Repeteds
Age: 21 (2/31/1998)
14k per week
7k after tax
Expires: 30/6/2022
Value: 295k
Weight: 70kg
Height: 174cm
Footed: Right
DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER, Midfielder (Centre)

Attributes
Technical (out of 20)
Corners: 9
Crossing: 15
Dribbling: 7
Finishing: 10
First Touch: 16
Free Kick Taking: 14
Heading: 12
Long Shots: 7
Long Throws: 7
Marking: 15
Passing: 17
Penalty Taking: 11
Tackling: 16
Techinique: 12
Overall: 168/280

Mental (out of 20)
Aggression: 10
Anticipation: 18
Bravery: 15
Composure: 15
Concentration: 16
Decisions: 17
Determination: 20
Flair: 8
Leadership: 12
Off the Ball: 14
Positioning: 20
Teamwork: 16
Vision: 17
Work Rate: 19
Overall: 217/280

Physical (out of 20)
Acceleration: 14
Agility: 18
Balance: 16
Jumping Reach: 8
Natural Fitness: 17
Pace: 15
Stamina: 16
Strength: 15
Goalkeeper Rating: 4
Overall: 123/180

Ranked: 508/740

by **Savojarna** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 1:32 pm

National High Court of Savojarna, Sjoedrhavn; about six months ago

The big hall of the National High Court was a sight to behold. It was most full when the court was not in session, as people from all over the multiverse wanted to see the hall constructed by the Ejanan architect Halldor Birkirson. The court building itself was a brick building, tall and geometric.On the inside, it used a lot of wood from Sumanen and granite from Ejana, uniting the three constituent parts of Savojarna at the time it was built. Russica’s equal addition to the country in the 19th century had been celebrated by the addition of a statue commemorating the event in the foyer. This building was the place in which Savojarna celebrated its identity as a modern, strong and enlightened state. Even the revolutionaries of 1909 didn’t quite dare to destroy the glory of the High Court, although they did remove a lot of the imperial artworks and brought them to musea or, in the case of the statue of Emperor Haakon IV. that stood in the main hall, threw it out of the window and into the sea.

None of the men present in the main hall now had eyes for the marvels of the court. The room was as packed as in the weekends, when the tourists were shown the marvels of the late Second Empire, but this time the cameras were banned. They had waited outside, but were not given any opportunity to shoot pictures of the accused. The judging panel for this process was unprecedented. People’s Justice Hans Freyrsson, the First Judge of Savojarna, usually presided a panel of three judges for most cases that required more than one judge. Five was an exception. This time, additional tables had to be brought to the room as the Executive Committee had demanded not three, not five, but the entirety of eleven judges adjudicate the case. It was nothing less than the biggest trial of Savojar history.

Freyrsson, a distinguished tall man around sixty-five, sat in the chair that used to be occupied by Haakon IV. personally whenever he attended the trial. To his left sat the Second Judge, Ulf Granberg, the Falcon of the Court. Granberg had gotten popular when he ruled in favour of a celebrated athlete who was accused of having smuggled drugs into the country, thanks to a small detail that had been overseen previously. The Falcon was a nickname that he had gotten thanks to his attention to detail as much as to his pronounced nose, looking not unlike a beak, topped by tiny reading glasses. His counterpart to the right of the President, Greta Junhild, smiled at a secretary handing her a file. She had a stellar career in the last years, based on her sharp analytical skills. The three - Freyrsson, Granberg and Junhild - had recently become known in Savojarna as a sort of judicial power trio. They would be the three most formidable opponents for the men that sat down on the accuser’s bench now.

The men accused were no less than the Savut’s leadership in Rushmori affairs. Anders Lidman, the former head of Rushmori affairs, had evaded the worst by demissioning soon after the exit of Johan Carlsen as Chairman of the EC. He had the political instinct to know that whoever was likely to follow up on Carlsen would want to take the Savut on a tighter leash. Tighter leashes that may not entirely strangle the traditional Savut autonomy, but tighter leashes that would definitely be too tight to push interference in Sameba through. This political instinct was what had carried Lidman, the first Savut Regional Head that had not gone through the higher ranks of the Army, into his position. He had been replaced by someone who lacked this instinct, as anyone who shared it would have politely declined his position. The poor victim that now had to defend himself against the Savojar government was an almost comical image of the 1980’s Savut. Focused not on careful political analysis, but on sometimes absurdly extensive foreign missions that seemed straight out of a movie; gifted with tactical brilliance but a lack of political feeling that was characteristic of the Savut agents that went through the ranks of the military, Major Ivar Haggkvist was the perfect victim for the man opposite him.

The Savojar government had not only decided to not skimp on the judges, but also on the prosecutors. The usual one or two investigators were replaced by no less than four people throwing the book at the Savut, specialists in the field of international law and the law of conflict. In their middle sat the closest that the eternally un-sexy Savojar justice system had to a rockstar: Age Kjaer, an anti-corruption activist that had made waves when he forced the end of a major collaborative that had paid out competitors to ensure a monopoly in certain areas of the country. The nationally popular case, together with the good looks and the rhetorical brilliance of Kjaer, led to the young-ish lawyer achieving a social media following that served to draw even more attention to the biggest case in Savojar history. The contrast between Kjaer, sitting there in his immaculate navy suit with a small Savojar flag pinned to it, and the fifteen years older Haggkvist with his combat scars and his flashy uniform, couldn’t have been bigger. They looked like representants of new and old Savojarna respectively.

The contrast grew bigger and bigger as the trial began. The accusations piled onto the men, who seemed to get smaller and smaller with every word said. Haggkvist’s initial defence came from another century. It was a defence in the language of the olden days, when Savojarna’s fears came from the counter-revolution and foreign agents throwing wrenches into the government’s works. Kjaer was quick to point out the problem. Going behind enemy lines without knowledge of the Savut, in a way that was so bad as to get a bunch of volunteers captured, was a problem in itself. But it wasn’t incompetence that was the problem here - the Savut had dealed with that sufficiently when they dismissed most of the people sitting on the bench today. The problem was the corruption of the Savut when it had decided to save the LKPS militia that was not even supposed to exist, much less run around behind Euran lines. And it was this LKPS militia that would be the final building block in the prosecutor’s case. A statement from Eura would be the secret weapon against the Savut - but they were working on much more.

A prison cell in Eura, around the start of WCQ 82

Four long years. That’s how long it was since the six LKPS men were imprisoned on Euran soil. There had been some protests by their comrades in Savojarna to get them out, and the Ambassador to Eura had at one point tried to get them some better conditions. As a consequence, they had been moved to a different prison and were now allowed to receive visitors every now and then. Not as often as normal prisoners, and one of them had suggested that the Euran government screened them for their political affiliation; but it was a lot better than their previous captivity.

There were few breaks to the monotonousness of being a prisoner, but when it was broken, it was usually interesting. This was no different: A guard entered the cell of Tore Valdman. Along with the familiar looking guard came an unknown man that Valdman immediately recognised as being Savojar. The unknown man introduced himself as a visitor from the Savojar Organisation for Transparency and Justice, a major NGO that posed itself as the watchdog of the Savut when it had gone on rampages in the late 1980s and the 1990s. Rampages that used to be accepted when there was still plenty of chaos, but grew obsolete and increasingly turned off the Savojar population. Valdman gulped multiple times.

“Tore Valdman?”, the stranger asked. Tore nodded. “We are preparing a case against the Savut again. Your story may be relevant”, he continued. Tore’s face darkened at the mentioning of the Savut. The visitor asked the guard to leave, and was allowed some time alone with Valdman - closely watched on video, no doubt. “Look, here’s the deal. We’re not sure what we’re talking about here, but the Savut had some weird role in this conflict. At least we think so. The Euran and Sameban National Officers demissioned shortly after the end of the conflict, as did Lidman. That is weird. Eura accused us of activities in the region. I don’t know what’s true, but I think you can help me find out. In return, we’ll find you some good lawyers and you’ll be tried in Savojarna. You’ll be an irregular fighter by Savojar law, but you know, at least not a prisoner of war”, he finished his pitch. Valdman was not too impressed by the prospect, but he liked the dry humour of the guy. And he didn’t have much loyalty to the Savut. He’d agree to make a statement, and hope for the best to get out of here. After all, there would be friends and family back home.

Over the next few days, he was linked up with another man. A short, slim, red-haired Russian with a distinctly nerdy look. Juha Karpov was his name, a lawyer from Jaromirgrad whose Savojarsk had a distinct accent. Karpov spoke in the usually hard, flat dialect of the Southern coast that someone who learned the language late and through immersion would have, reasonably close to the standard but notably coloured. His bet was that Karpov had gone to the closest thing Savojarna had to an elite university, Erik Perssons Akademien in Bjärgalän. It proved to be true. But what made his speech remarkable was the softness in his Russian accent, which captivated Valdman’s attention whenever Karpov spoke. He had become Tore Valdman’s lawyer shortly after their first encounter and helped the soldier to craft a statement that read the events from Valdman’s view.

The result would be deeply problematic for the Savut. The rescue action of an illegal militia behind Euran lines. Supplies that were given to them following their arrival in Sameba. Maps and even classified information had found their way to Tore Valdman’s troop. Thankfully for them, nothing had ended up in Euran or Sameban hands, as Halvorsen had destroyed whatever he got once he used it, and managed to escape the attack. Nevertheless, the charges would be spectacular. And more important for Tore Valdman, they would finally make the Savojar government care enough about their destiny to force Sjoedrhavn to demand his return.

by **Banija** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 2:12 pm

Part IX

The Scene is set at Mujgaguzo Palace in Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija

Omugabe Basamula was meeting with Andrew Mavuto, after the meeting he had with Ambassador Johanssen and Karen Albert, both of the Commonwealth of Baker Park. He wanted to update the businessman on the proceedings- since they’d be working in close partnership throughout this process, he wanted to make sure that they were in lockstep on these issues. And, of course, with the proposal of a jointly owned, public/private company, even if it has not passed the Lukiiko yet, they had a productive meeting with the representatives of Baker Park. As seemed to be a theme here, the former member of the World Cup 82 Host Committee, Omugabe Basamula, turned on the television in the background, with the Banija-Xanneria match playing. It was the 2nd half already, and the Banijans were up 2-1 at that point.

“Andrew, thank you for coming here on such short notice.” Said Omugabe Basamula. “I had a very important, and productive meeting, with Ambassador Johanssen. He was a great friend of my father’s, and of course, a great friend of His Majesty. They have brought a proposal to me that I think you will be a great fan of- it is one that should at least, while we figure out what the heck is going to happen with the ultimate ownership of the company, should allow us to get the process rolling and get the equipment, and frankly, the expertise in here to drill.”

“Thank you, your Royal Highness.” Mavuto said. “We are looking to be in good straits at the moment- the process is moving along nicely. But, what of your meeting? What happened?”

“Well Andrew,” Replied Omugabe Basamula. “It is about working with Sampson-Grayson, the company from the Commonwealth of Baker Park. They have the knowledge, and the expertise, to get the drilling going. Now, of course, this is a problem that we all have to face- nobody in this country knows anything about drilling.” And Andrew Mavuto shook his head- this much, most unfortunately, was true. That being true, of course, because of the lack of oil on Banijan soil. “They have the knowledge, the know how, and the expertise. The best part, is that they don’t want a stake in the company- they simply want to be a partner in the whole operation. So we’ll still be able to divide profits amicably from the oil fields, I think.”

When Omugabe Basamula stopped speaking, Andrew Mavuto started to nod his head. This made sense- a partnership. “I like the sound of this.” Mavuto said. “This is not bad, not bad at all so far.”

“But there’s more.” Said Omugabe Basamula. “They have been studying the situation- reflects the seriousness of their proposal. They, as many others, took note of the Lugazi protests that were happening a couple of weeks ago. It’s obvious that they do not like the idea of drilling, and we, most fortunately, need to ensure that the tide can be turned on that. They are willing to make an explicit employment offer to many Lugazi, to ensure that they directly profit from the operation as well.”

“Intriguing, intriguing.” Andrew Mavuto said. “How would this work?”

“This will work out fairly well, I think.” Said Omugabe Basamula. ”They have promised to help show that they will-“ and at this, both the Omugabe and Andrew Mavuto looked up, startled, as one of Mavuto’s aides slammed his hand on the table.

“Sorry, Your Royal Highness.” The aide said, doing a deep bow. “I was, uhh, reacting to the match.” And they look at the television screen- the score was now 3-1. While they had missed the goal happen, they, of course, were going to see instant replay, and they were able to see that the goal was absolutely a thing of beauty. The ball was being brought up the right sideline, and Afolayan crossed in an absolutely brilliant ball. It was Namakula Kawesa, of all players, who was substituted on just moments before, who was able to rise above the pack and head the ball towards the near post, and score, making the score 3-1 in favor of the Kadongo Kamu. Everyone in the room, of course, was a big fan, and it took them that much closer.

“We need a win today.” Said Andrew Mavuto, clearly distracted. “HUElavia won this morning, and if we win, that’ll put us almost practically into the Finals. And if we lose, well- the pressure will definitely be on next week. But back to it, of course.” And it was decided that Omugabe Basamula would officially send an invitation to the company to come to Entebbe, and tour the site, with Omugabe Basamula, and discuss how this would happen. They watched the rest of the game- the score ended up being 5-2. The Omugabe wrote to his counterpart, the Baker Park Ambassador, to set up that tour.

Setting is at Mujaguzo Palace, the day after the events above

Kabaka Mwanga was standing outside the Royal palace. This was, of course, one of the things that he’d have to get used to- standing at the head of a state visit. And his visitor was not somebody that you’d normally expect- he was able to meet with Prime Minister Schoenlein at the inauguration, of the Commonwealth of Baker Park, as well as meet with President Bennett, of Eshan. No- this would be somebody that he had never met before, from a country that he had never been to, even in his time as the Waziri for Banija.

Prime Minister Amy Yarley, of Eura, was in the region and touring the Euran Oceania Territories, a part of their nation. After the death of his father, Kabaka Albert III, and with the recent developments in oil, the Euran Foreign Ministry had reached out to him to establish a meeting, while she was in Atlantian Oceania. Of course, it had been delayed, but the time was now- the details, of course, being organized by his younger brother.

Omugabe Basamula was serving as the interim Waziri, at least until they could get a full time Waziri appointed, since his son, the 1st in line, was still too young. He’d need to figure that out soon- his eldest daughter, Omugaba Immaculate? Or his younger brother, at least until the 1st in line came of age? A question that would need to be answered soon, when he updated the royal titles of the rest of the line of succession- but today was not that day.

He stood outside the Palace, looking at the Banijan and Euran flags, lined up down the walk. And then, at that point, his aide whispered to him- the limo was pulling up. Kabaka Mwanga walked down the red carpet, and waited to greet Prime Minister Yarley and her delegation. He hadn’t interacted with many Eurans yet, but he was excited at this opportunity, to meet the Prime Minister and hammer out a deal that could conceivably work, for both Eura and the Banijans.

The fleet of limos pulled up, and in the middle, the 3rd limo of a fleet of seven black cars, parked. One of their security guards got out and pulled open the door, and Prime Minister Yarley got out of the car. Kabaka Mwanga walked up to shake her hand, and of course, the cameras were flashing like mad. He was used to do that by now, of course- this would happen on visits between high ranking officials, and he’d even been to the opening ceremony of a World Cup.

He walked Prime Minister Yarley into the Palace, and with him, came aides from both sets of governmental leaders. He first gave her, as he liked to do with every first time visitor, a tour of the Palace. Prime Minister Yarley met multiple people- the Katikkiro, the Sarauniiya, and his own wife, the new Luguba. He gave her a slight tour of the Palace, doing a brief on the history of the building. Was it unnecessary? Probably, but he enjoyed it, and hey, he was the Kabaka now- who was gonna stop him?

Of course, that tour ended, and at that point, they sat down, to get ready for their meeting.

“Prime Minister Yarley,” Kabaka Mwanga said. “It is my pleasure, and a honor, to have you here, in my home, in the home of my fathers. The first Euran Prime Minister to visit the country. I do remember a Minister in your government coming a few years ago to the Lukiiko, for the Katikkiro’s annual address- that is something that we thank you for. But now, of course, down to business.”

by **Mercedini** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 3:38 pm

DiniBet
Group 15 Post-MD 16 Betting Odds
@ Zoloroni Sports City Stadium - Zoloroni, Mercedini

FINAL SCORE
WCQ | MD16
MERCEDINI 0
INDUSSE 0
Zoloroni, Mercedini
Attendance - 64,031

The fans inside the Sports City Stadium were treated to a relative damp squib tonight as Mercedini and already-eliminated Indusse battled to a 0-0 draw, confirming the elimination of the Indian side from proceedings, but also putting a further dent into the hopes of the Mercedinian chance to qualify for the World Cup. It was a tight match with Mercedini having the lion's share of both chances and possession, but they simply couldn't find a way through with Billic and Alotic pulling the strings up front. Throughout the match, it was becoming ever clearer that Mercedini wouldn't concede in the match, it was just a case of whether the Golden Eagles would claim another one or another three points at home.

News was slowly beginning to filter through about Lisander's loss in Krytenia which spurred the players and the fans on to score and give themselves a slightly more comfortable cushion to take into the final two games. Instead, clean sheets for both sides left the stadium wanting. Wanting for action, wanting for goals, wanting for some kind of resolution to this qualification race. Two more points dropped at home will not go down well with most fans, although it put Mercedini in a better position than they were in compared to the start of the game, thanks to results of teams around them in the group. It's boiling down to a two-horse race in Group 15 with two matches left. At the end of tonight's match in Zoloroni, it finished Mercedini 0, Indusse 0.

Ps Group 15                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Equestrian States               16   12   0   4    42   22  +20    36
 2 Mercedini                       16    9   4   3    38   21  +17    31
 3 Lisander                        16   10   1   5    26   23   +3    31
 4 Krytenia                        16    7   4   5    38   34   +4    25
 5 Garifunya                       16    7   2   7    36   38   −2    23  E
 6 Pratapgadh                      16    5   3   8    31   36   −5    18  E
 7 Indusse                         16    5   3   8    17   25   −8    18  E
 8 Kandorith                       16    5   2   9    32   39   −7    17  E
 9 Ancherion                       16    4   3   9    32   45  −13    15  E
10 Zeniyadh                        16    2   6   8    17   26   −9    12  E

It's all change in the group table as the field it cut down to four remining nations fighting it out for two spots at the World Cup. The group is guaranteed to go down to the final match day with Lisander and Mercedini level on points following Dini's draw and Lisander's loss which further muddies the water regarding the qualification picture. Equestrian States is galloping further into the distance and will likely not be caught thanks to their favourable final two matches and their five point margin from third-place which they take into the run-in. Back in fourth place, the Cyans win against then-second placed Lisander means they cling on to their faint hopes of qualification, although their race is almost run with only one point needed from either of the two teams above them to knock them out for good and knock it down to three. Mercedini enter the final two games with the advantage on goal difference and on head-to-head points, so they would simply need to match the results of Lisander to ensure their qualification to their third World Cup. As groups begin to wrap themselves up, all eyes could fall on Group 15 on the final match day for the very final place at the 82nd World Cup.

DiniBet Percentage Chance of Qualification: Group 15
 1 Equestrian States               97.7%
 2 Mercedini                       55.4%
 3 Lisander                        46.7%
 4 Krytenia                         0.2%
 Garifunya, Indusse, Ancherion, Kandorith, Zeniyadh and Pratapgadh not featured due to confirmed elimination

Over to the betting odds, where two more teams have dropped out due to their confirmed elimination from proceedings, and you can see the contrast between the four nations in play and the hoops they have to jump through to punch their ticket to get to the 82nd World Cup. The two things that will almost certainly happen tomorrow is that the Equestrian States will confirm their place, while the late bloomers of Krytenia will likely fall away as their slim chance is snuffed out by the advancements of Lisander and the Golden Eagles in the coming match days.

The next match for both spotlighted teams will be crucial as it sets the stage for a dramatic final day in Group 15 between the two sides. Mercedini face Zeniyadh and Pratapgadh in their final two matches which, on paper, seems fairly straight forward for the Golden Eagles to do, although one can never guess the results that are churned out in these qualification cycles.

by **Squornshelan Remnant States** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 4:14 pm

Three Things
Hello, I'm Salwan Mynhier, newly back from a Grand Tour of Not Writing my Blog.

Playing Catch-up
Like me, the Black-and-Reds have also left themselves with a fair amount of work to do after some lackluster performances. A strong series of results early propelled them up even on points with Pasarga for first in Group 7 ahead of our Matchday 8 clash, but the Black-and-Reds stumbled to begin the second half of qualifying, going three matches without scoring a goal, though managing to also hold their opponents scoreless. Bethany Donnell has been in for some criticism over some of her lineup choices during that stretch, particularly for the matchdays 11 and 12 against Fevhader and Najaf, when she rested some of her starters in favor of less experienced players. It is definitely frustrating to leave points on the field against teams far down the Group 7 table, I personally think that some fans are letting the Black-and-Reds superb 6-1-2 first half delude them into thinking that qualification was a realistic goal. The fact remains that we were never a likely pick for a top-two spot, and the fact that we still have a mathematical chance is a huge credit to Donnell and her players. After the disappointment against Najaf in Zarss, they managed to rally for a win away to North Prarie, but then stumbled again when hosting Sorrentopia, having to settle for a 1-1 draw. Again, there was criticism from some, but the fact remains that even if the Black-and-Reds had won against Fevhader, Najaf, and Sorrentopia, they would still be facing a must-win situation in Pasarga. However, after a close loss in Sargossa, and then a strong home showing against Crystalline Caverns, the Black-and-Reds sit in third, with a narrow one point lead over the United States of Devonta, while trailing Pasarga by three points, who in turn train Sargossa by a further three points. Devonta cannot win the group, and Sargossa cannot finish fourth, but any other finishing order is still theoretically possible.

Group 7 with Two Matches Remaining

   Group 7                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Sargossa                         16   11   2   3    37   22  +15    35
 2 Pasarga                          16    9   5   2    33   20  +13    32
 3 Squornshelan Remnant States      16    8   5   3    20   12   +8    29
 4 United States of Devonta         16    7   7   2    32   23   +9    28
 5 Crystalline Caverns              16    6   2   8    25   33   −8    20
 6 Gutulia                          16    2  10   4    11   16   −5    16
 7 Fevhader                         16    2   8   6    10   18   −8    14
 8 North Prarie                     16    3   5   8    19   27   −8    14
 9 Sorrentopia                      16    3   4   9    20   26   −6    13
10 Najaf                            16    1   8   7    11   21  −10    11

All but the top four teams are mathematically eliminated, and indeed, Crystalline Caverns can no longer catch even Devonta in fourth. Meanwhile, Sargossa have effectively qualified. Being caught by both the Confederacy and Pasarga is not a mathematic impossibility, but we would need to make up 8 goals worth of margin of victory, as Sargossa hold the head-to-head tiebreaker against us in the event we ended up even on both points and goal differential. Our most realistic hope for qualifying would be to catch Pasarga, itself no mean feat. Matchday eight may very well render all this discussion academic, as the top four teams all face each other:

MD17:
Pasarga v Squornshelan Remant States
United States of Devonta v Sargossa

A win by Pasarga would close out the group as far as qualifiers go, with only the precise order of finishers to be sorted out. A win for the Confederacy, on the other hand, would leave us even on points with Pasarga heading into the final fixture of qualifying. Meanwhile, Devonta have a chance to claim third place if they can achieve better results than the Black-and-Reds over the last two matchdays. Sargossa will not be taking their foot off the pedal just yet, as gaining bragging rights over their regional rivals by finishing first will be a strong motivation for them.

MD18:
Squornshelan Remant States v Gutulia
United States of Devonta v Pasarga
Najaf v Sargossa

We will face Gutulia at home, in what, looking at Gutulia's results, ought to be a draw. The Black-and-Reds though, having won 3-0 in Gutulia in matchday 9 will be hoping to take full points regardless of whether they're playing for second or third at that point. Devonta meanwhile, are unfortunate to face both of the group leaders over their final two matches, but fortunate at least in facing them both at home. They must win both matches to have any hope at all of qualifying. Sargossa, meanwhile, finish off their qualifying with a visit to last-place Najaf, which should help them hang on to first place in the group. I'd expect them to give a few younger players an opportunity to play.

Overall, the final two matches promise an exciting finish to Group 7, with at least something, whether qualification or final positions sure to remain undecided until the final whistle on matchday 18.

Matchday Schedule and Results

MD1:  Devonta 2-2 SRS
MD2:  SRS 1-0 Fevhader  @ Civic Arena (cap. 37,500), Brasta, Sivolvia, SRS
MD3:  Najaf 0-1 SRS
MD4:  SRS 1-0 North Prarie @ Ralph Wilson Memorial Stadium (cap. 48,700), Han Dold City, Han Dold, SRS
MD5:  Sorrentopia 0-1 SRS
MD6:  SRS 2-3 Sargossa @ The Lutenstaad (cap. 75,000), Lutenblag, Molvania, SRS
MD7:  Crystalline Caverns 0-1 SRS
MD8:  SRS 2-4 Pasarga @ Megabrantid Financial Field (cap. 64,275), Brantisvogan, Megabrantis, SRS
MD9:  Gutulia 0-3 SRS
MD10: SRS 0-0 Devonta @ Albrechtsson Park (cap. 65,400), Damogran, Algolia, SRS
MD11: Fevhader 0-0 SRS
MD12: SRS 0-0 Najaf @ Westflanarena (cap. 31,200), Zarss, West Flania, SRS
MD13: North Prarie 0-1 SRS
MD14: SRS 1-1 Sorrentopia @ Flanoil Arena (cap 50,350), Traal, East Flania, SRS
MD15: Sargossa 2-1 SRS @ Estadio Generalissimo Joaquín Delgado (cap. 108,879), Soluca, Sargossa
MD16: SRS 3-0 Crystalline Caverns @ Chernov Stadium (cap. 57,600) Viltvodle, Megabrantis, SRS
MD17: Pasarga v SRS
MD18: SRS v Gutulia @ Sunergy Field (cap 37,550) Hunian, Algolia, SRS

by **Zwangzug** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 4:46 pm

"I'm Emmylou Brighton, and this is Jaina McHammel! And we're coming to you live from the ZS^3 with the sixteenth matchday of World Cup action."

"Group Four coming right down to the wire, so we'll bring you the latest from ongoing games as well..."

"...Weiss...over to Cole...back to Weiss...Baum up for a header, not the right wing, his twin brother."

"You can call him Phillipp, you know, there's a P. on the back of his jersey to distinguish them."

"They're all Phillipps, what's the difference."

"Well, their uniform numbers, also their surnames--"

"Cole dispossessed by Twoni, up to Hart-Farm, he dekes Weisz, goes left--goal! Kostya Hart-Farm puts Zwangzug on the board here in the twenty-ninth minute...

"...Let's send it over to Gor Kebab for a moment, electrifying stuff here as the home defense has excelled to hold the Anglicanans scoreless so far. Despite their thin roster and attacking style, the Kebab side tough at back, with Ogogo making several fine clearances. But we've got a game in Zwischen to cover. Emmylou?"

"What?"

"Oh that was just your cue, say something about the game."

"It's scoreless? I wasn't watching it."

"No, no, the game here."

"Oh. Well, uh, Schnee-Krull in possession...over to Garland-Fowler...this back line really has a lot of letters on their jerseys, oh well..."

"Do you think the uniform number controversy will shake up the national team jerseys?"

"Not really. Kukiseso has it, ah, Oster cuts him off..."

"...but before we restart the second half, I am contractually obliged to tell you about the goings-on in Libera Populum. There are none, not even the Suns have scored. Man, I find goalless draws to be soporific on occasion."

"Not sure why you became a football broadcaster then, Emmylou, but each to their own. Back underway here, Josheia's captain Swen Schultz dribbles forward."

"You know, the Joshenian colors are purple and gold. Not a combination we see too often, except maybe Ephesian."

"Quite. And Zwangzug's colors, uh, black and white, like their flag. And the reverse of their flag."

"Not if it's going to be torn down by international copyright-law. Think we should start planning alternatives, just in case?"

"Inter...you mean, like, progressive antinationalist tendencies that move beyond such one-dimensional patriotic symbols?"

"No, I mean the other thing."

"Think you're getting a bit paranoid there..."

"...Twoni dribbling forward, tackled by Friedman. Sayle-Bren comes up with it, and that'll be a goal! Two-nil to Zwangzug off of Marlon Sayle-Bren's cleats."

"Too bad it wasn't Joshua who could score against Joshenia, that'd have been more fun."

"We still have thirteen minutes left, there's time..."

"...and that'll do it, Zwangzug now at fifth in the close group after the win. Jeruselem the only other winners from this group on the day, overcoming Main Nation Ministry to rise to second. Everyone else will have to be contented with a half point."

"Full point."

"Yeah, whatever. Two games remain, and although Zwangzug don't necessarily control their own destiny--"

"Does anyone?"

"Uh, yes? Nova Anglicana and Jeruselem are top of the group, so if they win out--"

"I mean, Jaina, do any of us have free will, or are we the playthings of fate, bound by reductionist underpinnings or the nuances of a higher being?"

"Uh I'm gonna go with the free will option."

by **Valladares** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 4:57 pm

The National Kickoff
The Online Home of Valladar Football!

In Control of Our Own Destiny

By: Alan Rosero

Hello, lovers of Valladar football and other casual readers! This long and grueling road to the finals of World Cup 82, to be held in Valanora and Apox, is finally reaching its climax and it seems things in Group 13 will be going down to the wire with three teams still in contention for the coveted two qualifying spots: Savojarna, Vilita, and Valladares. Third seed Abanhfleft, who were also expected to be in the running until the last moment, have been knocked out with two matches to spare as a 5-4 loss against minnows Nottinhaps rounded up their marvellous implosion in the decisive half of the campaign. On the other hand, we are still in the running and with high chances of getting back to our rightful place, despite being the group's fourth seed, losing a crucial match in Metropolis and going down from first to third place because of that...and coming into the last WCQ double matchday with a massive disadvantage in GD. Do you want to know why? Right, here comes the group table after 16 matches and what will be coming next for our three hopeful contenders:

Ps Group 13                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Savojarna                       16   11   4   1    49   20  +29    37
 2 Vilita                          16   11   3   2    55   17  +38    36
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3 Valladares                      16   11   3   2    39   20  +19    36
 4 Abanhfleft                      16    8   4   4    41   35   +6    28
 5 Competitive Solitaire           16    7   5   4    34   36   −2    26
 6 Ashaie                          16    5   1  10    24   42  −18    16
 7 Busoga Islands                  16    4   2  10    23   35  −12    14
 8 Nottinhaps                      16    3   3  10    29   44  −15    12
 9 Bysantia                        16    3   3  10    16   34  −18    12
10 Soviet Micronesia               16    1   4  11    16   43  −27     7

MD17: Valladares vs. Bysantia - Busoga Islands vs. Vilita - Savojarna vs. Competitive Solitaire
MD18: Nottinhaps vs. Valladares - Vilita vs. Savojarna

While some qualifying groups around the multiverse have been already wrapped up without much drama, other groups such as Group 13 are so tight at the top that there's a high chance for the fortunate travellers to be decided at the last moment, with the first and third-placed teams being separated by just one point. Savojarna are leading the group with 37 points, but their next fixture will be a tricky one as they will be playing Competitive Solitaire, a team that has managed to steal some points off the group's top guns (we suffered them on MD2, remember that 4-4 draw in Swangard?) and is perfectly able to dent the Savojar aspirations. And to make things more interesting, the Savojars' last match will be on the road against Vilita, who will have to deal with another uncomfortable rival in the shape of the Busoga Islands (who, by the way, handed them one of their only two defeats during their previous meeting in this campaign) before focusing on that decisive showdown. Out of the three sides involved in this race, Valladares are the ones with the friendliest schedule on paper, as they will bid farewell to their fans in Swangard against Bysantia and then will close their qualifying campaign in Nottinhaps. Meanwhile, Abanhfleft, Competitive Solitaire, Ashaie, Busoga Islands, Nottinhaps, Bysantia, and Soviet Micronesia have all been eliminated from contention and have nothing else to do but to hope for better luck next time around (and also serving as spoilers for the teams still in the race).

Considering the current scenario, and the fact that Savojarna and the incumbent World Champions still have to play each other in what will be a make-or-break affair for both sides (woo!), Valladares will be celebrating their qualification for the World Cup if they win their last two games. It's as simple as that, and we won't need anyone else to do the job for us. However, and this is a much better news...there is a chance for La Nacional to qualify on this upcoming matchday. Yes, as you have just read. There's a chance for the us to clinch our much-deserved return to the finals if we defeat Bysantia at home. For that to happen, we will need both Busoga Islands and Competitive Solitaire to get in the way of Vilita and Savojarna and beat or draw with them. That way, the Valladars will be ahead of both Savojars and Vilitans and there won't be any way for both sides to surpass us as they'll be forced to kill each other in their last match. A win against Nottinhaps in the last match should also be enough if that doesn't happen, though. That said, prepare to bite your nails, because the final matches of the qualifiers are going to be tense...and of course, make sure to send all your good vibes to our boys. They need them more than ever at this moment. ¡Adelante, Valladares!

by **Qusmo** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 5:59 pm

Dwada-Prant Von stepped out of the cab, gazing in awe at what stood before them.

They had been released from their internship at Fuzpon Qusma, but they needed that job. If they weren’t able to count on the salary they had been expecting - Von shuddered & put it out of their mind. They looked back up & saw the building staring back at them.

“The Arena la Rouge.” Von began walking, confidently, towards the stadium. “This is where I’ll find the United Republican Soccer Federation. This is where I’ll set everything -”

“Hello, dear.” The person who looked up to greet Von had grey hair & wore glasses with large round frames. “What can I do for you?”

“Hello. I’m a representative from Fuzpon Qusma - well, not exactly a representative - I was fired, you see - well, not fired - really, I was dismissed from Fuzpon Qusma, & -”

“Slow down, honey. Have a seat. You looking for someone in particular?”

“Yes; I would like to meet the President of the United Republican Soccer Federation. I have a very important matter to discuss.”

“Oh, really? Well, sweetie, I’m sorry, but I’m afraid you’ve just missed Casimir; I think he’s gone for the night. He said something about having a drink. Is there a message I can pass along to him for you?”

“Well, it is a bit of an extraordinary request.”

“Go on; I’ll help if I can.”

“Alright. I have received word that a provision in the Omerican constitution allows for a nation to claim land from Omerica if they win four football matches against Omerica in succession - a feat that my home of Qusmo has recently achieved. I am here to claim the Republic of the Seafoam Islands on behalf of the State of Qusmo.”

“Oh, dear. That really is a very serious matter. Now, I have to admit that I don’t know the constitution as well as I should, but I don’t remember any clause like that being in there. I suppose everyone’s looking at constitutions now, with the vote of no confidence against Anne-Sophie & all; maybe someone did find something. & maybe it’s for the best that the Seafoam Islands would go; just seeing what Casimir has to go through every day now gives me a headache. But I think that a clause like that would be in the country’s constitution, not the country’s football association’s constitution.”

“I see.”

“You’re disappointed; I know, hun, it can be tough sometimes. But you’ll make it through. Here: if you head on over to the Palace of the Federation in Port-des-Saints, I’m sure you’ll have better luck there.”

“I certainly hope so. Thank you; I appreciate your help.”

“Anytime, hun; I hope things work out for you.”

Von gathered their things & looked for another cab to hail.

by **Krytenia** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 6:13 pm

The Sampson Factor

Krytenia's four-one hammering of Lisander keeps the faint flame of qualification hope flickering for a few more days, though almost certainly no longer. The Dragons need a near-perfect storm of results, combined with an absolute shellacking of Garifunya, Ancherion, or both. Let's be honest here, for all the will in the world, it's not going to happen. Either Mercedini or Lisander, perhaps both, will pick up some form of points in their last two matches and that will be that.

It's not to say, though, that this World Cup qualifying campaign has been completely fruitless. Far from it, in fact. Though it's true that a nation as storied as Krytenia having to wait until their fifth game to pick up a win was nothing short of scandalous, it's just as true that they have turned the corner, albeit a fraction too late.

There is one man to thank for this: caretaker manager Alexander Sampson.

The former Ousevale and international striker, brought into the coaching team by his former club team-mate, has come into his own since his rather bemusing installation into the top job mid-game agasint Garifunya; in the eight-and-two-thirds games he's been in charge, only Mercedini and the Equestrian States have got the better of the men in sky blue and white, and in both cases only by a single goal. Indeed, if you include only the games during this period, the table speaks for itself:

Ps Group 15 - MD8 to MD16         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Equestrian States                9    7   0   2    23   13  +10    21
 2 Krytenia                         9    6   1   2    28   17   +9    19
 3 Mercedini                        9    5   3   1    18    8  +10    18
 4 Lisander                         9    5   0   4    12   12    0    15
 5 Garifunya                        9    3   1   5    14   19   −5    10
 6 Kandorith                        9    3   1   5    15   21   −6    10
 7 Indusse                          9    3   1   5     7   14   −7    10
 8 Zeniyadh                         9    2   3   4     7    8   −1     9
 9 Pratapgadh                       9    3   0   6    16   20   −4     9
10 Ancherion                        9    3   0   6    17   25   −8     9

Yep, that's Krytenia, second in the table. It's probably safe to say at this point that the blame for Krytenia's (almost confirmed) failure to qualify is down to one man.

Elf.

Whatever.

The next test for Sampson is a simple one. Continue this form and confidence into the Cup of Harmony. If he does this, the KFA would be mad not to turn his contract into a permanent one.

by **Filindostan** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 6:24 pm

Tiiwark 0–1 Filindostan
Undisclosed location, Tiiwark
Scorers: Bienvenido 7'
FID Lineup: Cahya -- Graci, Buknoy [c], Kadek, Chanchan -- Sutikno -- Mordecai, Casanova -- Shiloh, Bienvenido, Ina
Substitutions: Deddy Lie for Mordecai (63'), Bilhah for Ina (76'), Rai Sanada for Bienvenido (86')

Filindostan inch closer to qualifying for the World Cup finals when they averted the threat of a Tiiwark side which proved to be a thorn in Starblaydia's campaign. It was a tough away match with the national team almost getting lost in their way in the host nation. Fortunately though they were able to locate the correct stadium with the help of the locals, but it was evident from the match that it could have played a factor in the scoreline, a one-goal margin of victory that will most certainly not help their cause, especially when Starblaydia further improved their goal difference thanks to a 7-3 win over Britaen.

That nonsense would not be a factor in the next matchday when they host Britaen at the Filindostan National Stadium. In other news, Ultras Pilindostan are planning a major prayer rally at the streets of Calle Sturiaga to offer their prayers to the God of Randomness in NS Sports, Margaret. Environmentalists and casual commuters have jointly put up a signature campaign to convince the city officials to cancel their permits as this would have major environment and traffic consequences in the affected area, as burning of rubber chickens may have been a part of this ritual once again.

Schedule - WC82Q including friendlies
PQF1: at Equstrian States - Cloudsdale (Sky-High Coliseum) - Draw, 5-5
PQF2: vs Qusmo - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 1-0
PQF3: at New Lusitania - Leiria (Estádio Dom Dinis) - Loss, 1-2
MD01: at Starblaydia - Jhanna (Stadii Di Bradini) - Draw, 1-1
MD02: at Polkopia - Peeto (Marshupov Arena) - Loss, 3-5
MD03: vs Omerica - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Loss, 3-4
MD04: at Cassadaigua - Concord Heights (Concord Heights Stadium) - Loss, 1-4
MD05: vs Abristan - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 3-1
MD06: at North Quadana - Undisclosed location in North Quadana - Win, 2-1
MD07: vs Tiiwark - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 2-0
MD08: at Britaen - Undisclosed location in Britaen - Win, 3-2
MD09: vs The Sherpa Empire - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 4-2
MQF1: at Apox - Dwile (The Garganaut) - Loss, 1-5
MD10: vs Starblaydia - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 5-4
MD11: vs Polkopia - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 2-1
MD12: at Omerica - Ville du 28 Mars (Stade de l’Indépendance) - Win, 2-1
MD13: vs Cassadaigua - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Draw, 4-4
MD14: at Abristan - Undisclosed location in Abristan - Loss, 3-4
MD15: vs North Quadana - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium) - Win, 2-0
MD16: at Tiiwark - Undisclosed location in Tiiwark - Win, 1-0
MD17: vs Britaen - San Marco (Filindostan National Stadium)
MD18: at The Sherpa Empire - Changsha (Hunan Territorial People's Stadium)

by **Mytanija** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 6:28 pm

JASNO JUMPSTARTS HOOPS WIN
ODONELEC’S 7TH GOAL IN HIS LAST 12 GAMES SAVES REPIN’S BLUSHES IN ALLUERSIA

by Nevenka Planinc

ALLUERSIA 1-2 MYTANIJA (at Alluersia Stadium)
ALL: DePo 14’
MYT: J. Odonelec 17’, 25’

ALL: Calson; Velst, Forens, Wilks, O’Rosen; DePo, Paysts, Quince, Elksert; Jouhnson, Hugs
MYT: Kasun; P. Odonelec (sub. Vukovic 52’), Anac, Jernejec (sub. Apostolov 52’), Nikolov; Vukomanovic, Hrdaljko, Kupresak (sub. Brkljacic 60’); Gavrilovic, J. Odonelec (C), Kalinic

Lev Repin may have made things look a little better in the second half of qualifying as the Hoops continued their (slight) resurgence with a come from behind victory over Alluersia. Following the 2-1 win, the Mytanar national team have now won 4, drawn 1 and lost 2 through the second round of fixtures and the FSM may look a little smarter in openly announcing that they will back the manager, despite the poor start to his competitive tenure in the post (of course, ‘competitive’ is required as a qualifier here – who remembers the five friendlies he had to open his account now?).

He set his team out in a variation of his 4-6-0, this time with the six divided as two sets of three in the same set-up used in the victory over Qusmo. This allowed the Hoops to control midfield, something which hadn’t happened throughout the loss in the first meeting against our Rushmori rivals. It has demonstrated that Repin is able to change things and react to opposition tactical adjustments and it worked again here despite an early Alluersia goal which could have threatened to disrupt the Hoops – after all, during the first-half of qualification even the slightest creak in the Mytanar team seemed to send everything into chaos!

Jasno Odonelec has grown into an integral component of what we might call the national team’s strongest line-up throughout this qualification cycle and he turned the game on its head with two goals in less than ten minutes against Alluersia. He’s a player who has great leadership qualities – he captained Clichy-sous-Bois in Le Champonnat in the past – so it is no surprise that Repin has started to give him the same sort of responsibility with the national side. He was named captain of a relatively young Hoops starting line-up here and put in a captain’s performance, adding his 6th and 7th goals of WC82 qualification to send the team on their way to an important win.

Brajko Gavrilovic is another player who has grown into his role with the national side over the course of qualification. He’s seen as some as a bit of an awkward winger, gangly and overgrown, but his physique hides a turn of pace and an intelligence on the ball that can make him difficult to play against.

He set up both of Jasno Odonelec’s goals here, with the attacking midfielder’s movement being difficult to deal with throughout the game and Gavrilovic’s clever link-up play making the most of it. A dinked pass found the 1912 Stelburg man for his first after he had dropped off the two centre-halves into the middle of the home side’s penalty area, a crisp volley finishing the move. The second wasn’t too dissimilar, Gavrilovic finding space in behind after Jasno had held the ball up and dragged both Alluersian centre-backs to him mid-way into the home team’s half. Gavrilovic took the ball to the by-line, waited and then dragged it back to Odonelec who powered the ball into the bottom corner.

It was a solid win in the end, with Repin making some defensive changes at the start of the second-half in order to secure the points (an extremely Hjikesque move, perhaps the new man is learning). Vukovic and Apostolov came on for Patrik Odonelec and Kamil Jernejec to add a bit more international experience at the back and not too long after Branko Brjkljacic came on for Vilim Kupresak as Repin created a bunker in front of the Mytanar defence with Vukomanovic, Brkljacic and Hrdaljko acting together to repel any threat of creativity from the Alluersian midfield. Things got very congested in the middle third of the pitch and with Jasno Odonelec dropping into that space too it was up to Gavrilovic and Kalinic to give the Hoops an out-ball and they did threaten to add a third for the Mytanars on the break. Repin was happy enough to stick things out and take the points in the end though.

The win took Mytanija to 21 points ahead of their final two games against Cosumar and Vartugia, Repin will hope to get two more solid performances from his players to salvage a little pride before a potential trip to the Cup of Harmony – which we now know will be held in Cosumar and Mriin.

by **Vilita** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 6:32 pm

Jungle Cats take care of Ashaie but fail to gain ground

Lunar Park, Seraai, Vilita :: The Vilita National Team came into Matchday 14 just one point clear of Savojarna in the hunt for one of Group 13's two qualification spots into the World Cup 82 finals in Valanora and Apox and they would exit Matchday 14 and march on towards Matchay 15 with the exact same margin separating both themselves from third place Savojarna, one point, and also the same deficit to the groups top side Valladares who would remain one point clear of the Jungle Cats with just three matches to play.

For a decent chunk of the first half of the match it seeme as if it was destined to end up in a goalless draw as the Vilitan National Team struggled to produce any offense against the 356th ranked team in the multiverse. Things would change in the Jungle Cats favor in the 37th minute however as Rammsissil attacker Berali Tzufarei kept the positive momentum alive by opening goalscoring to the match less than ten minutes from the break.

While some could argue that the result - which stood at just 10 after three quarters of the match had completed against Ashaie, would have been a dissappointing performance from the #1 overall ranked team in the multiverse. Even in fact after goals from Tenziki Kuakao and Jirak Trikala in the 80th and 84th minutes respectively, the 3-0 final scoreline would have left some fans with an empty feeling as they headed home from Lunar Field in Seraai.

Vilita [3] - [0] Ashaie

:: Vilita Goalscorers ::
:: 37' Berali Tzufarei
:: 80' Tenziki Kulakao
:: 84' Jirak Trikala

:: Vilita Statistics ::
:: Possession: 61%
:: Shots on Target: 5
:: Corner Kicks: 7

:: Ashaie Statistics ::
:: Possession: 39%
:: Shots on Target: 3
:: Corner Kicks: 6

Vilita Jungle Cats Lineup v. Ashaie ::
[GK] Cilamara Issah, [D.] Rintala Sekagaya, [D.] Linkat Cjinder, [D.] Jirak Trikala, [D.] Kwuimekii Hentetii, [ML] Cywrenta Vlintejni, [MC] Cavuna Aquafek, [MC] Ikala Mravedii, [MR] Karisto Monafog, [FC] Berali Tzufarei, [FC] Tenziki Kulakao
BENCH::
[FC] Enzoril Alabonni, [FC] Linvoi Warazil, [M] Westii Yahaya, [M] Jyuola Mtalata, [U ] Jirijii Januaa, [D] Arocki Tadalek, [GK] Vernasa Sanamun

-- Group 13                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Valladares                      14   10   3   1    36   16  +20    33
2 Vilita                          14   10   2   2    48   13  +35    32
3 Savojarna                       14    9   4   1    37   15  +22    31
4 Abanhfleft                      14    8   3   3    34   27   +7    27
5 Competitive Solitaire           14    6   4   4    28   32   -4    22
6 Ashaie                          14    5   1   8    20   33  -13    16 E
7 Busoga Islands                  14    3   2   9    21   32  -11    11 E
8 Nottinhaps                      14    2   3   9    22   34  -12     9 E
9 Bysantia                        14    2   2   10   11   31  -20     8  E
10 Soviet Micronesia              14    1   4   9    15   39  -24     7  E

Group 13 Table showing bests in each category via underline

The Jungle Cats didn't need to be flashy. They were already far and away the leaders in most goals scored, fewest goals conceded and best goal differential in Group 13. It was unlikely that the Vilita National Team would be challenged in any of those categories before the end of qualifications. Where they would be threatened, however, was points. Due to their commanding 4-0 victory over Soviet Micronesia, Valladares retained their position atop the table with a small one point advantage over the Vilita National Team who in turn held a single point cushion over Savojarna who retained the third position in the table with a 2-0 victory in Bysantia. It was all building up to an epic top of the table clash between Vilita and Valladares to potetially not only decide who would win Group 13, but also who would qualify for the World Cup 82 finals.

by **Turori** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 6:39 pm

Is Concord Heights better with Cocoa-bo?

Mliona, Turori :: When Queen Cassie II of the Matriarchy of Cassadaigua announced that the Matriarchy would be working with its local sporting arenas to investigate the possibility of corporate sponsorship of the Nations many stadia, arenas and event halls, the Cocoa-bo marketing team responded quickly and began to put together a new marketing campaign surrounded around the idea that ""Cassadaigua is better with Cocoa-bo"".

Cassadaigua represented an untapped market for the Cocoa-bo brand: The region of Rushmore. Naturally, Cocoa-bo expansion has surrounded on two primary zones: Covellan Esportiva and central Atlantian Oceania. Circling outward from the two corporate headquarters - one in the heart of Atlantian Oceania in Mliona, Turori and the other in the budding Esportivan re-born society of South Covello, the Cocoa-bo team has undergone quick and succesive expansion in these two locations as a core part of their business model. Having seen success with this model there were some inside the Cocoa-bo headquarters whom would have been satisfied with maintaining the status quo and continuing to expand only in these two regions for the forseeable future. There were others in the company however that were much more ambitious and wanted to see Cocoa-bo become a true multiversal brand, not just something local to one or two regions of the multiverse.

Cocoa-bo began to branch out again during the World Cup 81 Finals as they branched out into the Free Republics, setting up pop-up shops throughout Republica and near other World Cup Finals venues in the Free Republics with enough success and positive reception that even as some wanted to take the roll out of Cocoa-bo more slowly, they had little ground to stand on in justification of not moving forth with continued expansion of the brand into new regions - even Rushmore.

Yet despite having prepared all the marking material, designing the Cocoa-daigua flag and making stickers, banners and placards displaying the flag and the Everything's better with Cocoa-bo moniker on them, the marketing department at Cocoa-bo just sat on them. Surely they had entered some level of pre-negotiations with Queen Cassie II's representatives in the Matriarchy but nothing had materialized. It seemed as if the Dagans were looking to test Cocoa-bo in smaller markets first - places like Battleboro. Of course, most Cocoa-bo officials would have been happy with whatever would be on offer to get their campaign rolling, get the material out the door and start to get a feel of just how well their product would do in Cassadaigua. Others, however, wanted to hold out for something bigger - or if not bigger, at least better, in their own eyes. There were some in the Cocoa-bo shop that were eyeing Concord Heights.

Even with a number of Vilitan companies such as Toys '4' All, Vilaye Energy Drink and Tropicorp itself rumored to also be angling for a role in re-shaping the sporting landscape in Concord Heights, Cocoa-bo officials were undeterred. They believed they had the best product in the multiverse and just the offer of bringing their finely crated delectables to Cassadaigua would surely be enough to sway the odds in their favor no matter how many zeroes mega-conglomorates like Tropicorp could put on a check.

:: Cocoa-Bo Eatery
Cocoa-bo, an establishment taking its name directly from the beloved national animal of Turori, started as a small dessert shop in Kionao. However, it was only after they added chocolate topped drinks to their menu that their popularity started to soar. As more and more patrons scooped up their chocolate flavored pick-me-ups, demand for the Cocoa-bo product skyrocketed and soon new franchised locations were popping up all throughout Turori. Shifting to more of a social 'hang-out' then just a casual place to drop in, get a dessert, and leave, the new locations started adding small foods such as Bagels for the morning, Soups and Sandwiches for Lunch or Dinner and Salads for the entire day.
Cocoa-bo has expanded outside of Vilita & Turori. Their first regional location was opened in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega and Cocoa-bo has opened temporary locations during major internationstatal events such as the World Cup Finals with past locations appearing in Drawkland and Cosumar. Cocoa-bo has opened a new permanent presence in South Covello and is currently studying permanent expansions to Starblaydia and the Equestrian States. The company continues to further increase its image by partnering with Motorsport teams and expanding the company footprint across Atlantian Oceania and beyond. Cocoa-bo are also the kit sponsor for Mliona-Lpaka AFC in the Vilitan League.

by **Drawkland** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 7:27 pm

Iarocav sat with a stony face, staring down at a massive world map. In front of him lay a intricately detailed map of Sonnel, colors glowing and painstakingly carved troop tokens standing upon visual representations of the territories and nations of Sonnel. His eyes flicked across the lands, the amounts of troops and their movements represented, millions of lives hanging in the balance. Around him stood a close council of other Drawkians, regarding the board with the same faces hardened in concentration. In the cruel times of war, every decision must be weighed, every attack and defense acutely planned to prevent failure or unnecessary sacrifice. To fail is to die.

The Drawkionels, of course, were playing Risk at their monthly get-together.

As was the custom for several thousand years (with some intermittent periods, smaller-than-usual, and longer intervals between aside), the five immortal leaders of Drawkland would gather at a hosts' home and catch up. Strictly speaking, it was a governmental necessity, to make sure the council of the five Drawkionels were always on the same page and agreeing on the most important current events of the time. Nowadays, it was more of a get-together between (very) old friends. Of course, they would speak of the current events, catch up on each others' goings-on and gossip. And sometimes, they would find time to play games.

This was being held at Iarocav's manor in Centivar County. In between two mountains on the horizon, one could see the dormant but massive Seven Stars Stadium outside the window. Six were gathered in this large study, modern yet still with a classic cozy feel. Most of the wood was deceptive, with futuristic technology contained on most surfaces which still looked like deep, smooth mahogany. The centerpiece was the versatile table which could display a huge variety of maps, images, and whatever else. Here it displayed the Sonnel-styled Risk map, the colors flickering in slow gradients, with the ocean seeming to move in waves. The carved pieces, in their various representative colors, were custom designed and commissioned by Iarocav himself.

Of course it was ironic. The five oldest people on the planet, with hundreds of battles and wars under their belt, playing a children's game meant to break the horrors and stresses of war into the simplest and most inoffensive terms possible. They'd remarked on it before on a past playthrough of the game, to which they agreed "sometimes it's fun to be able to do it all without real worry."

Six were gathered in the study that night. Iarocav, his wife Meliauden, and eldest son Lerocav were all sitting about the table. Kanyo, Malicoll, and even Ellzidan sat around on the other side. Callagard, a normal attendee, was tied up with a trip on state business overseas and was not able to attend. Sometimes some of the Drawkionels weren't able to attend, and that was just the way it played out. When you have all the time in the world left in front of you, there's no need to care about missing an appointment or two. Usually the family of Drawkionels didn't attend, just because there was no need to, but Iarocav was hosting. The meeting was just held at the house, there's no reason to not join in on the fun then.

"Iarocav, you old codger, move already," Lerocav huffed after a minute or so of waiting.

"Now, now, Lee, I wouldn't expect you to understand the complexities of this thing we call war. When you get to be my age, you'll really understand why such care is necessary," Iarocav joked back at his son. With both Iarocav and Meliauden being immortal, their offspring, too, was immortal, but the effectiveness wore off after each additional one. Lerocav was the firstborn and had nearly the same attributes, but some of the later children just had to be content with a lifespan double or triple that of an average Drawkian.

"Hey, when I'm that old, do you think I'll have all that grey hair, too?" he shot back with a grin. While the Drawkionels never really aged, after several thousand years, Iarocav's face had grown a slight couple wrinkles, and a few silver hairs standing out against the jet black of the rest.

"You watch it boy, or you'll get this belt. Ellzidan, I'm going to attack Juvencus with 4 troops. You have 3 to defend with." Iarocav picked up the artisan-quality dice from the table and began shaking three in his hand. The red-haired elf picked up the two red dice and rolled them in a single fluid motion. Once the dice landed, a five and a three, Iarocav let his fly across the table. His landed as well, a six, two, and one.

"Damn, a one-and-one." He reached over and flicked a troop in each territory down. "A tie, so to speak."

"At least it wasn't scoreless," Lerocav scoffed in the elf's direction.

"Well now she's gonna give you the belt," Iarocav grinned as he picked up his dice to roll again. The Kick Corps' performance in the World Cup thus far had been almost an elephant in the room, if perhaps you could tell. Ellzidan rarely showed a whole lot of emotion, and while she enjoyed playing the sport, it was sometimes hard to tell when she was sore about bad results and when she wasn't. On one hand, she never showed a whole lot of sadness on the pitch after a tough loss, keeping a carefully practiced neutral expression on her face most times. On the other hand, there was that one time she disappeared for most of the qualifying cycle following the IAC 4 loss to Free Republics 3-1.

"Sometimes, you find it's best to let things happen as they are," Ellzidan shrugged before releasing her dice again. A two and a one. Iarocav let his fly, a six, five, and two.

"Aha! Juvencus is MINE!" Iarocav said with half-joking jubilation, knocking Ellzidan's troop figures back at her and moving a couple of his own into the new territory.

"Are you saying you're letting this absolute embarrassment of a cycle happen?" Lerocav asked, curiously. It was hard to tell if he was outraged or legitimately wondering.

"Maybe I am, maybe I'm not. You know I'm not a terribly spiteful person ... at least not publicly. But some of these players are overwearing their welcome."

"Too many chiefs, not enough braves? I've always thought that was a problem with putting together 'superteams.'" Malicoll spoke up for the first time since her last turn. "So many of the highest talents always seem to be headcases, from what I've gathered."

"Ah yes, I'm sure you could analyze the dynamics to death." Ellzidan shrugged. The two Drawkionels weren't exactly unfriendly, but they'd had a feud with each other for uncountable years.

Iarocav muttered something about ending his turn and picked up a card. He chuckled when he flipped it and found it was Sulsuland. "At least we somehow managed to outclass the Sulsu this time. Remember when they finished in the top half of their group? Had Electrum in it and everything."

"I think I've seen Sulsu manage a team better than Carol freaking Haywood," Lerocav said bitterly.

"In any case, I don't think we're the class of Sonnel anymore. Just think of that Juvencus! In order to qualify and in first of the group. They could even have a shot at making the World Cup playoffs, with any luck." Meliauden spoke up, motioning at the overrepresentation of Juvencus' territory on the map.

"Hopefully our fans don't do anything dreadful against Audioslavia this weekend. I would hate to miss out on the Cup of Harmony due to red tape." Kanyo spoke up as well. "Isn't it your turn, Meli?"

"Yes, yes, just trying to decide where to place my troops. What do I get, 6 on this turn?"

"5, sweetheart. Can't pull a fast one on me," Iarocav winked at her. She shot a joking grimace back at him and placed her troops on the board.

"What do you think about all this, Ellzidan?" Kanyo asked. She, too, seemed curious at her thinking.

"I think I would like the Cup of Harmony. A bit of a change of pace. Too many huge nations that stress out the other players in the World Cup, and too many small hapless nations to crush in the IAC. At least in this Cup we'll be on pretty decent footing without expecting blowouts every match in or out of our favor."

"That's something I think we can all agree on," Meliauden said, moving troops across from her Sonnel States territory to Nicerford. "Iarocav, I believe that's your two troops under attack from my five."

Iarocav snatched the defending die and rolled them with mock indignation. He rolled them and examined the results. "Hrm, two and one. Hopefully the score against Audioslavia, eh?"

"Maybe. Or maybe it'll be two to six, like my dice say. Give me that territory!" Meliauden exclaimed. Iarocav groaned as he snatched his two, now dead troops off the board.

by **Mriin** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 7:27 pm

Here Be Dragons

When you're waiting for ~~Qusmo~~ Drawk to post >:c

MD17 Cutoff for Groups 1-7

by **Lisander** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 7:51 pm

The bus was still in the dark. The radio was the only noise that could be clearly heard. A satellite phone had been modified to be able to listen to that match at least.

They had bets on each other. Bullets, cigarettes, cough drops, coins, anything small that would not be given for lack. The pessimists ended up having a party. Lisander's defeat had made them win things they could sell back to their losing comrades in case of a Captain's inspection. "Take care of your personal belongings, and if they are over, lose or break, there will be no others." At La Sang, we respect the property of others.

La Sang: A security company based on Lisander, reportedly serving as private military contracting agency (most elegant description for a battalion of hired mercenaries), reportedly acting in counter-terrorism and killing rebels throughout Imperan League.

That was not necessarily enforced because there was not much honour among the "company" contractors. They were mercenaries, they were there for themselves. The Captain's inspections were no more than threats. They were on a bus poorly armoured with metal plates on their way to invade a Ukutu rebel camp in northern Heemstra.

While the men and women listened to the game, they were preparing their rifles and cleaning them from the sand they had entered when they had passed through a sandstorm a few miles earlier.

The driver, chewing a chewing gum and earbuds, stopped the vehicle just before nightfall to give the first warning to the mercenaries.

Ladies and gentlemen, another kilometre and the rest of the way to the base will be done on foot. If there are sentinels, they must be slaughtered silently, so I do not want anyone without a muffler on the fucking rifle. We'll invade when night falls. As always, civilian casualties will not be tolerated.

In a few more minutes the bus stopped again. The driver said something in the Walkie-talkie he wore hanging on his chest in a language the soldiers could not identify, then heard a message in the same language, with which he seemed to agree. Finally he spoke again to the soldiers

We can not go any further, not before you start to invade. After that dune is the base of them. Use the green pyro at the time you need the bus to advance.

The men and women got off the bus and set off on the sand of the Ukut Desert. Maybe it was his last battle. Maybe not. But that's life.

by **Valanora** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 8:07 pm

Here Be Dragons

Do you know the meaning of 7734?

MD17 cutoff for Groups 8-15

by **Geektopia** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 8:40 pm

Tethra Tope Career Highlights

The Geektopian legend Tethra Tope has just been bought over, we at GKT11 will show you his statistics and backstory

Tethra Tope is truly one of world football's global superstars, Tope made his senior debut playing for FM Sternovi against SPSP on 24th of October, 1999. Having made his Geektopian debut against Megiston in September 2003, he has gone on to make 33 appearances and score 17 goals for his country. The Geektopian international has been in lethal form for Couty East this season, leading the club's scoring charts with twenty-one goals in twenty-seven appearances. He will play internationally after the WC.

Age: 41
25k per week
9.9k after tax
Expires: 30/6/22
Value: 43,000,000
Weight: 80kg
Height: 184cm
Footed: Right
Striker (Centre)

Attributes
Technical (out of 20)
Corners: 13
Crossing: 14
Dribbling: 11
Finishing: 19
First Touch: 2
Free Kick Taking: 19
Heading: 10
Long Shots: 18
Long Throws: 20
Marking: 9
Passing: 9
Penalty Taking: 11
Tackling: 13
Technique: 16
Overall: 184/280

Mental
Aggression: 12
Anticipation: 20
Bravery: 13
Composure: 20
Concentration: 17
Decisions: 17
Determination: 14
Flair: 16
Leadership: 12
Off the Ball: 14
Positioning: 11
Teamwork: 15
Vision: 19
Work Rate: 3
Overall: 203/280

Physical (out of 20)
Acceleration: 5
Agility: 5
Balance: 16
Jumping Reach: 1
Natural Fitness: 6
Pace: 14
Stamina: 18
Strength: 7
Goalkeeper Rating: 19
Overall: 81/180

Ranked: 468/740

by **Main Nation Ministry** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 10:04 pm

The Red Wagon: The Story of the Yellow Birdhouse

Henry's wife Diana helped him out of the car, as they arrived back home. The injury wasn't as bad as Henry thought, as his leg already needed to have a cane to walk with, though the cast was a bit ironic. Helping him to his bedroom, while making sure that he climbed the stairs with the railing, Diana helped her husband get into bed, while he tried to check the statue for extra money. "Diana?" Henry asked his wife something before she left the bedroom. "Yes, dear?" "I need you to get rid of that damned birdhouse. It's practically cursed to me." Henry said, in a grim mood. "Honey, it's attracting the birds though."
"They die. You need to put it in the damn trash.."
"Why are you being hostile over a homemade birdhouse?"

Henry immediately went silent. Diana saw the look he had on his face. There was some sort of darkness that appeared around him. His mouth was contorted in a grin of disgust. "Oh god.. Diana. You probably need to listen to me for a second, because if I tell you this, it will make me a lot more happier." Henry said, reverting to a more calm expression. "Was it supposed to be a gift that you didn't want me to see?" Diana asked. "No. That birdhouse is actually a present from someone long ago. But seeing it now makes me sick to my stomach. You remember how we met at college, right?" Henry asked, where Diana nodded. "Well. I actually was in another college before I transferred. And I met someone else before you.."

"Before I was transfer to another college to get my sports scholarship screwed from my leg injury, I met this girl while I was in a fraternity. She was a nice girl. Sweet, almost. Like you. We were in a relationship between each other. It lasted around the same time, as long as it took for me to propose to you. One day, she made me a birdhouse from scratch as a gift. I saw it, where I saw it as a sign of our love. But..."
"But what?"
"There was a bit of a catch. Happiness for us didn't last. She wanted one type to live her life, while I wanted the opposite. So..after we argued for days, I had to transferred. I kept the birdhouse as a bit of a memento. Then, my old friends called me one morning. She.."
"Well.."
"..."
"..?"
"She just..died."
"She just died? Like that?"
"I only gotten the phone call. I was told that they had a closed casket that day. I didn't want to know what happened to her.. After I got the news, I kept the birdhouse, but I hid in the basement so I would just forget it. I wanted to toss it in the trash, but I thought that if I forget her, I lose a part of me. It was probably why I got tackled by my own team, while you were in the stands. I decided to not do the same mistakes as I did, where I managed to find actual true love."
"That's actually so sad."
"But. I have already lived in the past far enough.. All I want you to do is have that birdhouse thrown in the trash. Because I know for a fact that it will just bring nothing but misery to the both of us. We're be doomed from whatever happens. Do you understand?"

"I see." Diana said to Henry. "Good. I'm going to be just resting for the week. If my condition improves, then I can get ourselves something to celebrate." Henry told Diana, as he started to rest. After leaving the bedroom, Diana headed to the patio to remove the birdhouse from the above hinge. She was just planning on having a trash collector take it in for recycling, seeing how waste disposal in Main Nation Ministry was rather ruthless, but she already had second thoughts about the birdhouse. Wanting to do a small lie for Henry, Diana returned to the basement, where she decided to put it back where she found it. If so, maybe Henry's troubles will be better.

While Diana was down in the basement, she thought she heard someone was down there with her. The room was strangely cold, as if there was a hole in the wall, letting wind in. However, she dismissed it as her imagination. Even though, the red wagon was moving past the residence outside the front door.

by **Mytanija** » Wed Mar 27, 2019 10:41 pm

VANQUISHERS, VANQUISHED!
PROUD MYTANAR TEAM HOLD OUT DESPITE SECOND HALF ONSLAUGHT

by Nevenka Planinc

COSUMAR 1-2 MYTANIJA (at Farris Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium at The Royal Palace; attendance 103,872)
COS: Sibučić 84’
MYT: Gavrilovic 16’, Ocokoljic 55’

COS: Na’Kefir; Va’Afaja, Na’Duha, Chaumancer (sub. A. Tidesson 72’), Tibrewal; Söderquist (C) (sub. Serafino 57’), Tricklebank; Sibučić, Ojala (sub. B. Tidesson 68’); Riise, Blaylock
MYT: Kasun; Vukovic (sub. Feric 65’), Anac, Apostolov, Isaev (C); Brkljacic, Hrdaljko; Gavrilovic, J. Odonelec (sub. Vukomanovic 57’), Kalinic; Ocokoljic (sub. Jernejec 65’)

Mytanija went into this fixture against Cosumar knowing – following the 3-3 draw in the first-half of qualification – that there was a chance they could get something from this game. That draw was more or less the turning point for the Hoops, prior to that draw the team had been gone on a run of five straight defeats (and six without a win!). Since that draw, the Hoops have now won six, drawn one and lost only two. Lev Repin will rue his side’s awful run of form in the opening half of qualification, if a loss or two had even been a draw different then Mytanija could still be in with a shot of qualifying to our first World Cup since World Cup 68.

Lev Repin is a man who doesn’t particularly like ‘ifs and buts’, though, so he will have just taken this as an excellent result for the Mytanar team. He set his side out in an unexpectedly aggressive 4-2-3-1, which morphed into a version of the 4-6-0 in possession. He did employ Branko Brkljacic and Alen Hrdaljko as patrolling guard-dogs in front of what has now clearly become the national side’s first-choice back-line. It may have been a much-changed Cosumar side, by no means their first choice starting eleven, but it still had a whole host of stars: Na’Kefir, Söderquist and Sibučić, for example.

The team we probably know better as the Azure Dragons rather than their newer nickname of Vanquishers had already qualified to the World Cup proper – and for many older Mytanars, this sort of fixture probably had the feel of a fixture in a World Cup group stage in decades gone by – and Mytanija were of course already eliminated from contention, but Repin had made it clear that the team had to try and finish as high up the group as possible. A Cup of Harmony berth is never guaranteed.

On the pitch, Repin won the early tactical battle with the Hoops peppering the home side’s goal in the opening fifteen minutes. Ocokoljic went close early on after Jasno Odonelec – who else – ghosted into space before turning and guiding a through ball between Na’Duha and Chaumancer. Ocokoljic was prevented from putting the ball in the net by the towering Na’Kefir, but it gave some early encouragement to a team that seemed well up for the challenge.

The early rumblings of what would be nearly an hour-long battle between Jasno Odonelec and Stig Söderquist began with the Cosumar captain not really realising where Odonelec was and he would evade him again as the Hoops went 1-0 up. Odonelec started from a more advanced position and dropped onto the back of Söderquist as Alen Hrdaljko brought the ball forward. Odonelec directed Hrdaljko, telling him exactly where to pass and then nipped in front of the home side’s captain to take possession – driving the ball away towards the right-hand side. Söderquist gamely followed, Odonelec had Kalinic for support and the winger kept Va’Afaja honest by staying high and wide – not allowing the full-back to double up on Odonelec with Söderquist.

Odonelec looked this way and that, slowing the ball down as Söderquist approached and then tapped the ball to Kalinic who looked instantly as if he was going to run at Va’Afaja. Odonelec started to run inside, Söderquist followed and once Odonelec had his body in front of the Cosumar captain he stopped and asked for the ball back from Kalinic. The Directus winger obliged, playing the ball with pace to Odonelec, Odonelec dummied it and ran past Söderquist – who had expected the attacking midfielder to take possession – and the ball went through Söderquist’s legs too. Odonelec was in full-flow and had caught Söderquist flat-footed, it was a sublime piece of skill and was only added to by what Odonelec did next. He ran onto the ball and swung an inch-perfect pass across the Cosumar penalty area to Brajko Gavrilovic who was in space and Gavrilovic volleyed home to put Mytanija 1-0 ahead.

It was a moment that perhaps showed more where Mytanija can be instead of where we are right now. Jasno Odonelec is an excellent player – as is Stig Söderquist – but here, Odonelec demonstrated he can be spoken of in the same breath as one of the multiverse’s best. If only for a minute, anyway. Brajko Gavrilovic’s finish shouldn’t be underestimated either and was well-deserved for a player who has grown into qualification and right now is a player Repin will struggle to take out of the team.

After that the game became more even and both sides had chances – Söderquist showed why he’s such a good player by nutmegging Odonelec, some might say he was returning the favour. It wasn’t until after half-time that another goal was scored and the Hoops were once again in the ascendancy. Jezdimir Ocokoljic scored his 25th international goal with a header – something that doesn’t happen too often – Jasno Odonelec was involved again, dropping deep and running at the Cosumarite defence before playing the ball to Kalinic who drove in a low cross and it was Ocokoljic who stooped low and dived a little to get his head to the ball and divert it beyond Na’Kefir to make it 2-0.

At this point Lev Repin decided he wanted to change things around a little, happy with the two-goal cushion he removed Jasno Odonelec for Predrag Vukomanovic and the formation changed from the 4-2-3-1 to a more definite 4-6-0 (the 3-3 version). Repin wanted more stability to try and maintain the lead, something he later put down to the fact he could tell his side were tiring and would not be able to maintain the attacking pace they had set for much of the game until that point. Cosumar immediately responded to going 2-0 down by getting on the attack and Blaylock had nearly pulled one back. This was followed by a Sibučić chance and Riise was denied by Kasun’s out-stretched bear-paw of a glove shortly after that.

Repin was called into action, in the 65th minute the 4-6-0 changed to a 5-3-2, shoring things up by bringing Kamil Jernejec (a centre-half!), on for Ocokoljic and the more defensive Feric in for Vukovic. Some will argue that this was asking for the home side to attack, but Repin was eventually vindicated. Cosumar did pull one back through Isla Sibučić in the 84th minute, but they didn’t really have a clear-cut chance other than that in the final 25 minutes after Repin made his changes. The blanked defence meant that Mytanija were actually pretty solid for once and Cosumar were restricted to blocked shots and slightly frustrated passing around the edge of the Mytanar area.

It was a tactically aware and generally high-level performance from the Hoops and one which will cause many to ask exactly where this sort of performance was in the first-half of qualifying against the likes of Sajnur, Kavagrad and Alluersia.The likes of Vukovic, Anac and Brkljacic stepped up in this game where they were perhaps disappointing in the ones that had come before. It should be noted that Alen Hrdaljko was also excellent, always calm on the ball and not afraid to tackle tough if necessary. Gavrilovic is an interesting player and if he’s on form can present a strange challenge for opponents. Odonelec has been our best player during qualification too and was good again here.

It might not have been against a full-strength Cosumar – although the 3-3 earlier in qualification was – but it can still go down as a proud result for Repin nevertheless. Plus, full-strength or not, the Hoops became only the second team to beat Cosumar in qualification along with Sajnur. And to think Saltstead media outlet The Beet called the Hoops ‘shit’ earlier in qualifying!

The 5-1-2 record in the second-half of qualification is almost galling, but it does at least demonstrate that Lev Repin could be the right man for the job and that the FSM is perhaps right for keeping faith in him. The proof will be in what comes after this, although this did feel like a potentially important signalling point in this chapter of Mytanar footballing history.

by **Sajnur** » Thu Mar 28, 2019 12:29 am

Dozens killed in bombings in Javoser

A series of explosions occured in Javoser at several targets, including the National Stadium, the Sajnuran national football team's training camp, and Parliament House. So far, the death toll has climbed to 67 people, with more than a thousand others injured, and the death toll is expected to rise in the coming days. According to the Javoser Police Service, the perpetrators are unknown and no suspects have been identified. Among those injured are several members of the Sajnuran national football team, including captain Jessica Siafik and goalkeepers Piotr Laghiev and Alek Khadur, and rapper Derek Macar.

Conservative Party MP Liam Urbei called a press conference the day after the attack to call for increased security measures at all major events and for security laws that would increase police powers to help identify potential terrorists and to prevent them from launching attacks.

"We must crack down on these threats to our country and our people and make sure that no one dies at the hands of terrorists. We will protect our people by any means necessary. I propose that the police should be able to do whatever it takes to stop criminals and terrorists, including searching their houses and looking at their emails at will. We cannot let these terrorists walk the streets free of interference."

Prime Minister Ralje Matosina, however, came out sharply against Urbei's suggestions, claiming they were violations of liberty.

"We cannot possibly allow the police, or any authority, to do such things on a whim. We have warrants for the sole purpose of protecting liberty and privacy, and Mr Urbei's suggestions are a blatant violation of both these rights, rights which are essential to the freedom of all Sajnurans."

Interior Minister Hamid Qaushai rejected the idea of expanding police powers, but promised to find solutions.

"This government will not bow to the whims of those who wish to take away our freedoms. We reject the idea of expanding police powers. We will find solutions to this problem, but infringements on the freedoms of Sajnurans do not constitute solutions to the problem of terrorism. Such invasive laws have not worked elsewhere, and will not work here. Solutions will be found, but they will be found elsewhere."

The Conservative Party attempted to introduce a bill during the previous parliamentary term in the wake of the Ka'in attacks that would expand police surveillance powers, but it was voted down 436-70 in the Assembly, with the 61 Conservatives joined by just nine other MPs.

Eliseo Marinon could not be reached for comment, but it is expected that a makeshift squad will need to be constructed for the upcoming fixture against Vartugia, which has now been relocated to the Merekel Stadium.

Sajnur 2 - 4 Vartugia

Sajnur Goalscorers

Andre Naulo 30', 61'

Vartugian Goalscorers

#10 7', 55'
#8 16'
#9 71'

by **Mriin** » Thu Mar 28, 2019 1:53 am

Posted following matchday sixteen’s defeat to Farfadillis…

aroundthehorn.mrn

Effectively Through

Well, that'll do it. The writing's been on the wall for a bit, sure, but with two matches to go Group 12 paints a very clear picture: For Mriin to miss out on the World Cup we have to lose twice, and Beepee needs to win twice, to the tune of twenty-goal differential flip. We're visiting them next so they've got a chance to do some dirty work done themselves, but the chances of anything significant cropping out of the game are vanishingly small. It all still feels a bit depressing, y'know--this has been a hell of a shitty second-half skid. 3-3-1 does not set the world alight in any way, and for the first time not only are we not challenging for first in the group, we're fucking nowhere close. Ten points! Ten!!! Leave it to the Farves to only drop five points in a cycle where every group is seeing like three draws per round, ugh. At least we got one hit back on them. That we beat each other away is screwy, but hey, we're two of the screwier football nations out there. Case in point, we hadn't really threatened top qualifiers offense much since we lead the whole shebang in cycle 78, notably our last group featuring Farfadillis. Now that the Dynamic Duo is back together, bam, right up to the top of the goals scored charts we go. The only really challengers are the equally goofbally Holy Empire (who are likely going to finish top of the pile, in all honestly), world champions Vilita, and bloody Nephara. God, we've scored thirteen goals in six draws. And, of course, given up thirteen goals in six draws. What a farce.

What's it say about our chances in finals? Fuck if I know. I've never seen the team play like this. Are they losing their killer instinct? Is our new-face midfield not able to hold a lead? It seemed like Kia and Pia were working together well the first few games when everyone was worried they hated each other, but were they just trying to save face and shit got started again in the locker room? I'm not an authority to pin it on them, but when Melbergian Jason Gray looks like Chimera Moxham carving you up there's obviously a problem. Some people have been stirring the pot about Don's job security, but that's all faff and they know it. We're still virtually guaranteed for the finals and his contract is going to hinge on whether we finally get out of the groups or not, we knew that coming into the cycle. The most optimistic view I can muster is that the team has gotten complacent and lazy--I'm not known for my optimism, let's be honest--and they're set to wake up on the big stage. Elsewise we’re losing touch and our golden generation is falling to the wayside, which… fuck, I don’t want this to be over. We made so many waves so early, we can’t just fuck off into obscurity with naught but an AOCAF silver. Something’s gotta get figured out and soon.

The day of the Beepee match...

Don slammed onto the bench with a sigh. Jorm, rattled by the resulting quake, shot a grin at the gaffer. “Three goal lead not enough for you?”

“I’m not complaining,” the dragon rumbled, “but we’ve not had the best track record with leads lately.”

“Sure, but we weren’t playing this well. Haven’t dropped a pass yet, the right people are being marked--it’s all tight for once.”

“You’re right, but I can’t get it out of my mind that a change is in the cards. But with everyone playing as they are I can’t pinpoint where.” He continued to grumble as he glared down at his clipboard.

“It’s your call, but I don’t think messing with what’s working is the call h--” Jorm couldn’t finish his sentence as Pinewoods Stadium came to life.

The two snapped their heads up to see Sam Veera circling away from a prone a Mara. Don’s claws found the bridge of his nose for the umpteenth time this cycle. “And so it begins…”

“Oh, don’t be so doom-and-gloom. Hey Joren!” Waving further down the line, Jorm caught the assistant’s attention once he’d finished yelling something at Wehi’katal. “Get over here!”

Joren arrived a brisk jog, duly taking note of the frustration on his boss’ face. “It’s one goal, Don. We can straighten this out.”

“What actually happened?” Jorm cut in; “We… weren’t really watching.”

“Christ, really? What do y’all think we’re here for? Wehi’katal just got muscled off the ball by Veera and we didn’t have anyone else ready to pressure him. Now Reina’s going to shift over and cover whene--” The crowd roared once again, and Joren winced as he watched the light in Don’s eyes die in real-time.

“That’s it,” he slammed the clipboard to the ground, “put Karii on for Wehi’katal and Hilda for Tia. And tell Tia I want to meet her in the tunnel.”

Before Joren could react, Don had spun and walked off leaving a j-shaped trail of smoke. “...that could work, yeah.” He glanced at Jorm. “Did you catch that?”

“Tia had a clean passback to Pia, looked at her, then tried to hoof it to Malia.” Jorm solemnly shook his head. “There were three Beepeeps in the way.”

Joren took a moment for a deep breath, then sprinted back down the touchline to try and sort this shit out.

Pinewoods Stadium’s tunnels were clearly not designed to fit a dragon, but Don scrunched up his wings and dealt with it if it meant the barest modicum of privacy. Kaara was being a dear (in her own special way) and standing at the entrance to glare down the cameramen and journos trying to sneak a snap, and violently shouting them down when they tried to mob Tia.

Don glanced up when he heard the clack of hooves cut through the omnipresent echoes of the crowd and braced himself. “How many times are we going to have to--” He cut off to cover his ears, as the crowd deafened him from every direction. And we’re fucking tied already.

A light brush on his right arm snapped him back to where he was. She’d just walked right past him. “Tia!” He could hardly hear himself, so with a grunt he started off after her and reached out.
She spun and batted him away before he’d even made contact. “Keep your claws off of me.”

“Do you think this is a joke?!” He barked, his throat suddenly worryingly dry. “Do you think this is the place to play out your idiotic grudge?”

“Do you think I’m a joke? Talking down to me like a child before anything fucking happened? I didn’t have a goddamn problem until everyone else decided I did! You even convinced Pia I was being a bitch!”

“I--er--” All of a sudden he noticed how hot and stuffy the tunnel air was.

“I had to lose my best friend twice and somehow that makes me a pariah for fucking up a pass when we’re all playing like shit.”

That ‘shit’ bounced around the tunnel a few times as the two just glared at each other.

And then the crowd went wild again.

Tia threw up her arms and spun about. “Fuck it, we’re not doing this here.” As she slammed the door behind her Don slowly made his way back to the pitch, where Joren was busy losing his voice.

Zilia didn’t want to get up. Things were already going terribly when Mara pulled something and had to be helped off the field, and this was far from the situation she wanted to finally have all the cameras back on her. And it just kept getting worse, somehow. The ball slowly crept up enough to bounce against her arm after its journey into the back of the net courtesy of Carlo Bannan, his third of the game and the seventh unanswered Beepeep goal. Many drinks would be required. Do they even have taverns in this godforsaken country?

She slumped back to her hooves and scooped the ball up, turned back towards the action and--noticed something out of the corner of her eye. She rolled the ball out to Reina and waited a moment to make sure the ball wasn’t going to get shoved right back down her throat--not that it really mattered, there were three minutes left for a four goal deficit--before stealing a glance at the sideline. That was definitely Don pacing out a ditch, shouting into a phone. I didn’t even know he had a phone on him during matches.

The whistle would be the one mercy the Reavers would have that night, and even that came painfully slowly as Zilia watched the ref more attentively than the play. The home crowd was in euphoria, having taken a scalp in such fantastical fashion even if it didn’t really improve their chances at qualification. The Mrii walked off as dejected as you could be while knowing a finals berth would be secured in a fortnight. But Zilia kept her head up--mostly to scan for Don, which, hrm. It’s… not hard to pick a dragon out of a crowd. The hell did he go? She asked around, but Joren didn’t know, Kaara didn’t know, not even the random journos caught any snaps of him leaving the field. Without anything else to go on, she retired to the locker room to mull things over. I know he’s the private sort, but this is still weird. Hopefully he’s not doing something ra-- her train of thought was cut short by the buzz of her phone. Wait, that’s my twii.tur notification sound. Only a few people trigger that. The lock screen showed it was from Vicky Lavoi, Zilia’s boss at the Angels… and the head honcho of the MNL. Oh god, she was the other end of that argument, wasn’t she? The hell is she twiiing about at a time like this?

by **Brusseldorf** » Thu Mar 28, 2019 6:11 am

News

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Results from Composition Competition
March 27th

Last week Goal.br created a competition to find an anthem for the national team. The only rules were: it had to be original, and it had to include either the words 'Brusseldorf' or 'Los Alrededores'
Beginning with honourable mentions, here's a submission from local high schooler and budding composer Lewis Watershed.
To listen click here

And onto third place...

by **Qusmo** » Thu Mar 28, 2019 6:16 am

Dwada-Prant Von stepped out of the cab, gazing in awe at what stood before them.

They had been released from their internship at Fuzpon Qusma, but they needed that job. If they couldn’t one day fulfill their dreams of becoming president of Fuzpon Qusma for themself - Von shuddered & put it out of their mind. They looked back up & saw the building staring back at them.

“The Palace of the Federation.” Von began walking, confidently, towards the stadium. “This is where I’ll find the Omerican parliament. This is where I’ll set everything -”

“Who are you?” The question, from a stern-looking young person of about twenty or so, startled Von.

“I’m a representative from Fuzpon Qusma - well, not exactly a representative - I was fired, you see - well, not fired - really, I was dismissed early - though -”

“I’m sorry,” the person interrupted. “Do I look like I give a fuck?”

Von was taken aback; they didn’t know how to respond. “Not particularly, I would suppose, no.”

“Well, then, will you tell me what you need, or do you want to keep wasting my fucking time?”

“Alright. I have received word that a provision in the Omerican constitution allows for a nation to claim land from Omerica if they win four football matches against Omerica in succession - a feat that my home of Qusmo has recently achieved. I am here to claim the Republic of the Seafoam Islands on behalf of the State of Qusmo.”

“Why don’t you go ahead & proclaim yourself President of Omerica while you’re at it, too? Listen, bud, I’ve had to know this fucking constitution inside & out, better than the back of my fucking hand, & I can assure you that there’s absolutely nothing in there that’s remotely like what you’re talking about. Anything else, or can I go?”

“Wait a moment; are you entirely sure? I have this information on credible sourcing.”

“I don’t care where the fuck you get your sources; they’re wrong.”

“But-”

“Listen, I still don’t give a fuck, so if you want to waste someone’s time, do it somewhere else. I’m sure the Federal Ministry of Defense Headquarters would be delighted to deal with you. After all, if you’re planning to annex an entire republic, you had better fucking bet that the military’s going to get involved sooner rather than later.”

“That makes sense, I suppose. Thank you; I appreciate your help.”

The person Von had been talking to walked away without responding - though Von thought they could hear them muttering something under their breath. It seemed to be something about ducks & ducking, though perhaps they had misheard.

Von gathered their things & looked for another cab to hail.

Dwada-Prant Von stepped out of the cab, gazing in awe at what stood before them.

They had been released from their internship at Fuzpon Qusma, but they needed that job. If they had to go back home & admit they they had failed - Von shuddered & put it out of their mind. They looked back up & saw the building staring back at them.

“The Federal Ministry of Defense Headquarters.” Von began walking, confidently, towards the stadium. “This is where I’ll find someone who can help me. This is where I’ll set everything -”

“Halt!” A voice boomed at them, but Von couldn’t quite make out who was speaking; it seemed to be a loudspeaker of some sort - in two ways. “Suspect, identity yourself!”

“Dwada-Prant Von, of Qusmo!”

“State intentions!”

“I’m a representative from Fuzpon Qusma - well, not exactly a representative - I was fired, you see - well, not fired - really, I was dismissed early - though I am hoping that I am doing now will help me regain my job - I - ”

“Suspect, are you armed?”

“No, I am not.”

“Purpose in Omerica?”

“Alright. I have received word that a provision in the Omerican constitution allows for a nation to claim land from Omerica if they win four football matches against Omerica in succession - a feat that my home of Qusmo has recently achieved. I am here to claim the Republic of the Seafoam Islands on behalf of the State of Qusmo.”

After the rapid pace of questioning, there was a silence for a few moments. As it grew longer, Von became more & more uncomfortable; they finally began to realize where they were & how their intentions might be misconstrued - & they began to imagine what might happen to them if that were the case. Perhaps they were readying to capture Von now. Finally, though, a single middle-aged person stepped out of the shadows. They sported a crew cut & a face chiseled with rectangles & right angles, with nary a curve in sight.

“Son, do you realize that what you’re planning to do is an unimaginably flagrant violation of Omerican law?”

“No, I -”

“Well, it is. & I suggest you get yourself an Omerican attorney, because simply conspiring to overthrow the government of any one of our republics is a serious offense, which we will not & will never tolerate.”

“But I was just -”

“I don’t care. Come with me. You’ve got two options, son: either come with me willingly or be forced to come here. It’s up to you.”

At that moment, a younger person, wearing the same uniform & haircut appeared. “Sir, we have a call.”

“I don’t care, lieutenant. This is what we’re dealing with now.”

“Sir,” the lieutenant continued. “It’s from Mike.”

The rectangularly-shaped Omerican looked stunned. After a pause, they responded. “Bring me the phone.” They then spoke to Von. “Today might be your lucky day.”

Von wished they could simply gather their things & look for another cab to hail.

WC 82 RP Thread

New Players, Part 3

WC82 Post-MD16

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