World Cup 85 || RP Thread

by **Valladares** » Thu May 21, 2020 12:38 pm

Valladares 3-1 Delaclava
(Fortin 17', Mickel 41', Pearson 75'; xxxx 39')

Valladares: Gaviria - Pedretti, Delgado, Rueda - Rojas (Castillo 75'), O'Brien (Lachlant 83'), Mickel, Barrios (Padilla 62') - Baume, Alexandre (Pearson 67'), Fortin (Benezet 79'). Manager: Paulo Oliveira

Venue: Estadio Zachary Fortin, Metropolis
Attendance: 46,349
Weather: 22°C, overcast

VFA confirms venues for qualifying matches, Columbus makes it as last-minute inclusion

CERRO, DISTRICT OF METROPOLIS (VAP) — With the draw of the qualifying stage for World Cup 85 being revealed yesterday in the evening and the news that the Valladar national football team was drawn into Group 5 along with Baker Park, Zwangzug, The Macabees, Darkmania, Vakolicci Haven and Celeria, Squornshelous, Mkabia, Khazajamal, Bushkrub, Twicetagria, Adsuri, and Sharktail, the Valladar Football Association has confirmed the allocation of venues for home matches to be played by La Nacional in a press conference held today in the morning in their headquarters in Cerro.

The 11 stadiums announced in the preliminary shortlist released by the VFA at the time of the announcement of the national team roster were all confirmed to host one qualifying match, with the addition of Estadio Parque Armenia in the city of Columbus to reach a total of 12 stadiums being the main novelty in the final list. As expected, the National Stadium in Swangard will host the match against the group's top seed, in this case Baker Park. White Meadow Arena in Carloburgo will host the MD22 game against second seed Zwangzug, while third seed The Macabees will visit Eterna City on MD11. Bezieres, Campo Grande, Canalave, Pradera, Junín, Metropolis, Fontvielle, and Slateport will be the other venues for the Valladar national football team. It is to be noted that all of the chosen stadiums except for Estadio Zachary Fortin, which already hosted the friendly game against Delaclava, hosted matches in World Cup 74.

Estadio Olímpico de la UNV in Caraure as well as Arma's Estadio Municipal were not considered, despite having been put forward to consideration of the national governing body by the Arauco and Alto Danubio state federations when it became clear that there would be groups of 13 teams and an additional stadium would be needed. When asked about the subject, VFA Chairman Marcus Trent stated that the main issue with the Caraure and Arma venues had to do with the state of the pitch at both stadiums, as well as the state of both facilities which would have to be significantly upgraded in order to be considered for future WC qualifying campaigns. Likewise, the state of current sporting infrastructure in the Westlands state prevented any stadiums in said federal entity to be considered, the biggest one of which being Edmonton's Albert Field, which can only seat 20,000 people.

The complete schedule of home matches for Valladares in the upcoming qualifying campaign is attached below, with ticket sales for the home opener against Squornshelous in Canalave on MD2 already open. La Nacional will open up their campaign in this World Cup cycle in Mkabia on Saturday.

MD2: Valladares vs. Squornshelous - Dragon Stadium, City of Canalave, Canalave (Cap. 50,987)
MD4: Valladares vs. Vakolicci Haven and Celeria - Estádio Estadual Armando Bozzelli, Campo Grande, Chiquito (Cap. 58,259)
MD6: Valladares vs. Sharktail - Stade de la Frontière, Fontvielle, Foix (Cap. 41,378)
MD8: Valladares vs. Darkmania - Stade de Foix-Jules Picot, Bezieres, Foix (Cap. 63,170)
MD11: Valladares vs. The Macabees - Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City, Eterna (Cap. 60,207)
MD13: Valladares vs. Twicetagria - Estadio Parque Armenia, Columbus, Mountbatten (Cap. 35,250)
MD14: Valladares vs. Mkabia - Estadio Zachary Fortin, Metropolis, District of Metropolis (Cap. 50,304)
MD16: Valladares vs. Adsuri - Estadio de la Riviera, Slateport, Eterna (Cap. 40,110)
MD18: Valladares vs. Baker Park - Alexander I National Stadium, Swangard, District of Metropolis (Cap. 95,021)
MD20: Valladares vs. Khazajamal - Arena Junín, Ciudad de Junín (Cap. 43,394)
MD22: Valladares vs. Zwangzug - White Meadow Arena, Carloburgo, Mountbatten (Cap. 69,780)
MD25: Valladares vs. Bushkrub - Estadio de la Montaña, Pradera, Antioquia (Cap. 43,174)

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by **Taeshan** » Thu May 21, 2020 1:24 pm

Schedule
Matchday 2 vs North Quadana @ Stairway to Heaven*, Mt Ceabring, Wolf Island
Matchday 4 vs Flavovespia @ X Island Metropark**, X Island, X Island
Matchday 6 vs A Flock of Seagulls @ The Haberdashery***, Hannah, Williams Isle
Matchday 8 vs South Covello @ Atlantea Coliseum****, Atlantea, Atlantea Island
Matchday 10 vs Freeport @ X Island Metropark, X Island, X Island
Matchday 12 vs The Appraisal to the Allmighty MR TAYTO @ Stadium on the Lake*****, Laketown, Lake Island
Matchday 16 vs Maccian @ Stairway to Heaven, Mt Ceabring, Wolf Island 
Matchday 18 vs Eastfield Lodge @ Atlantea Coliseum, Atlantea, Atlantea Island
Matchday 20 vs West Pocon @ The Haberdashery, Hannah, Williams Isle
Matchday 22 vs Melbergia @ Stairway to Heaven, Mt Ceabring, Wolf Island
Matchday 24 vs Main Nation Ministry @ Atlantea Coliseum, Atlantea, Atlantea Island
Matchday 26 vs Sylestone @ Real Stadium on the Lake******, Chinchinhua, Lake Island

Capacities
*90,000
**250,000
***85,000
****590,000
*****99,000
******99,001

by **Garifunya** » Thu May 21, 2020 3:28 pm

First half will be crucial for Dolfijnen in World Cup return

Gabriel Vermeer, De Frederykvil Dagblad

De Dolfijnen of Garifunya are making their return to the multiversal World Cup in its 85th edition after not competing in recent editions. They will compete in Group 12, and their success or failure in the first half will determine whether or not the second half is worth taking seriously. There is even talk of scrapping the national team due to costs after the civil war and whether it's good enough to justify its continued existence.

The man who will save or doom Garifunyan football is also a controversial choice: Stefan Schuurmans, age 39, from the Netherlands. Many were not happy when a foreign manager was named, especially a manager from our former colonial master. But the big shots at the Garifunyan Football Association were impressed with his work in the Dutch domestic league and are giving him the keys.

Schuurmans confronts a roster with some turnover and some veterans. There are sixteen returning players, mostly guys who were young when the team last competed in the multiversal World Cup. Schuurmans kept them for the sake of continuity, but after so much time off, was it the right call? Seven players will join the squad this year, including the first-ever Hispanic Garifunyan to represent the national team, Hector Arboleda of Puerto CF. Other intriguing figures include Onze Daam's Boudewijn van der Weide, a 20 year-old phenom forward who was instrumental in returning Our Lady to the top flight, as well as another reserve forward, 21 year-old Sonel Augustin, originally from Haiti, but now showing his quality at FC Frederykvil.

Schuurmans has elected to go with a 3-4-3 diamond formation based partly on the philosophy of his coaching hero, Johan Cruyff. The team will form three diamonds on the pitch; the three backs with the defensive midfielder Nieuwaal, the four midfield players, and the attacking midfielder Kamerling with the three forwards. So much will depend on Nieuwaal, to destroy opposing attacks, and on Kamerling to start ones for de Dolfijnen. They were both reserves on the last national team to compete, so they will have to step up. Schuurmans does expect his team to play something approaching "total football", with Nieuwaal able to drop back and form a four-man back line if necessary, or move up and start plays from the midfield. The two wide midfielders, Krumers and Schoeneveld, will have to be box-to-box men, while Kamerling, van Petersen, and Klenkman will drift back and forth to support the target-man Disselhorst and confound opposing defenders. While they will strive to keep their shape, the team might take the shape of a 4-3-3 or 3-5-2 on defense, while shifting into a 3-3-4 or a 3-4-2-1 on offense.

Now let's take a look at de Dolfijnen's first-half opponents:

Aldaveria (152) - 3-0-3 BoF 71, 4-5-11 WC 84

De Dolfijnen will take on Aldaveria in the first matchday at Staad van Dijk in Vrijport. Staad van Dijk, of course, is named for the famous Raymond van Dijk, the mixed-race pirate cum Robin Hood figure of colonial Garifunya. The Aldaverians are ranked 152nd, some 80 spots ahead of our Dolfijnen. However, they have only one World Cup qualifying campaign under their belts, while de Dolfijnen have several. And in their case, their 4-5-11 record in World Cup 84 is nothing to brag about. They did score a 3-1 win over group winners Apox, but their 17 points tied with three other teams for second-worst in the group. This is an opportunity for our boys to start WC85 off on the right foot, a home win over a higher-ranked nation that, at this point, seems to have very little interest in the Cup. We could not even find a list of players for their team, whether it be this competition, the last World Cup, or their inaugural foray into international competition, the Baptism of Fire. Hopefully our team will take advantage of their indifference and send them packing.

Jerauuk (342) - 0-0-6 BoF 72

Next up is a trip to the oddly named nation of Jerauuk. They boldly entered the multiverse, proclaiming they would enter the World Cup without going through the Baptism of Fire. They then reversed course and sent word that they would indeed enter the BoF. Unfortunately for them, it made no difference. They lost every single game of their BoF competition, and while there's no shame in losing to promising young sides like the Riennic Isles and Sankt Konrad, dropping games to teams with names like Simpralia and Monglechabagd, as well as mediocre finishers Caelapes and the Soracana Islands, doesn't bode well for their future. De Dolfijnen should look for a victory here on the road; indeed, it is imperative if they want to be competitive in a tough group. But they mustn't discount the chance that the Jerauukians(?) find their stride at home; a draw or even a loss is always possible.

Bongo Johnson (53) - 7-5-8 WC 84

When our boys return home, they'll take on Bongo Johnson, the 53rd-ranked team in the world, in the Staad van Heiligen, home to FC Frederykvil. The Bongos, as they are called, are a side whose rank doesn't match their recent results. They are ranked 53rd, a Pot 4 team, but lost more games than they won in World Cup 84. Their 26 points were good for 5th in the group, but they were an astounding 15 points behind Hapilopper and Darkmania, the two teams who tied for 3rd in the group. Talk about uncompetitive. This is likely the highest-ranked team De Dolfijnen will have a chance to snatch points against. A draw would be a favorable result, but they will have to play their hearts out. Right back Bert-Jan van der Lugt had better be on his game against LW Speedy Wheels, whose name implies van der Lugt will have a job staying in front of him and keeping him out of the goal.

Talamia (UR) - No prior results

At Talamia is an intriguing matchup. On the one hand, Talamia has not competed in international play before, declining to enter the BoF. On the other hand, they have a rich footballing tradition, what appears to be a very competitive and high level domestic league, and a media and fan base that are ultra-engaged. As such, an away match poses a serious challenge. The passion of the Talamian players and their fans will make it quite difficult to come away with a win or even a draw. The Talamian 4-2-3-1 means that there will be an even match on offense and defense against Stefan Schuurmans' 3-4-3 diamond, de Dolfijnen's six attacking players and four defending players against the reverse for Talamia. It should be an excellent match.

Geektopia (80) - 7-2-11 WC 84

Geektopia is another team that de Dolfijnen could steal a point from at home. Against a top-100 side, they should have little chance, but this will be the first game in Staad Fyet nan Garifunya, and it will be rocking. The 80th-ranked side finished a disappointing 8th in WC 84, but perhaps this was not so surprising, as their group included such luminaries as Free Republics, Taeshan, Schottia, and Savojarna. There was another skilled football team there in Group 11, but their general immorality and lack of taste means we shall not mention them. But I am sure that the Geektopians were disappointed. They will play an offensive, attacking style, just like our boys, so it should be exciting and high-scoring. Let's hope de Dolfijnen can come out with at least a point.

Cosumar (34) - 8-4-8 WC 84

Cosumar is an incredibly skilled team with many years of experience and success under their belt. However, that wasn't reflected in their mediocre, 28-point, effort in World Cup 84. They finished with just a +1 goal differential and were 14points off the pace for second. This is not a team to be underestimated, however. They are still capable of blasting de Dolfijnen into next week. However, perhaps our boys can catch them unawares and off-guard and steal a point. That would be a truly monumental achievement, going into the Dragons' den, as it were, and coming out unscathed.

Baggieland (317) - 1-3-2 BoF 72

Baggieland is a nation making its World Cup debut. They struggled to a 1-3-2 finish in BoF 72, but their group included 3rd place finisher Tequilo, as well as teams that are regarded as quite promising, like Kohnhead, South Newlandia, Havynwilde, and Twicetagria. That's a tough group. The Throstles play a more attacking version of the 4-5-1 formation, which means that it will be a battle in the midfield, which may well come down to which combination is better, the two center mids of Baggieland or the two wide midfielders of Garifunya. But a home game against a lesser opponent (Staad Minisipal Mytelbeerg) is a must-win for a team like de Dolfjinen, considered far from excellent on the multiversal stage.

Zeta Reka (200) - 4-2-0, Lost in finals BoF 72

The Rekans are formidable despite their inexperience. They made it all the way to the finals of the Baptism of Fire before succumbing to Mavinet 1-0. One thing that is apparent is that this is an incredible defensive team. They didn't give up a single goal until the semifinals, a run of nine scoreless matches. If they can keep up a pace of four goals allowed every ten games, they will see a lot of success. For de Dolfijnen, breaking down the tough back end of their defensive 4-5-1 will be key to a victory. A draw would be a good result, and a loss nothing out of the ordinary.

Osarius (87) - 6-4-10 WC 84

Osarius, Osarius. Once a top-10 nation in the multiverse, now reduced to 87th overall. It is a stunning drop for the Firebirds, once regarded as one of the best teams out there. They slopped their way to a 6-4-10 finish in WC 84, allowing 2 goals per game. Perhaps their struggles augur well for de Dolfijnen's chances to pull an upset in Staad Fyet nan Garifunya. Then again, they are still good enough to send our boys packing without too much trouble. Pulling a draw would probably be a good result. A win would jumpstart de Dolfijnen's chances at a top-half finish, while a loss would hardly be regarded as a tragedy. A missed opportunity, perhaps, but not a tragedy.

Starblaydia (5) - 16-3-1 WC 84, 2-1-0 WC 84, Lost in quarterfinals

Forget about this one. The results in the previous World Cup speak for themselves. De Dolfijnen's goal in this away match against the 5th-ranked Starblaydis should be to lose by two goals or fewer. Even the more enthusiastic of my journalistic colleagues at De Koningrijk or Fyet Garifunyaan aren't predicting a win, let alone a draw here. Let's move on. There might be a chance for a draw on the return visit to Staad Fyet nan Garifunya, if we're lucky and the Starblaydis are playing subs, or they've had too much to drink, or maybe both. Probably both will be necessary.

95X (34) - 13-3-4 WC 84, 0-0-3 WC 84

Cosumar was an example of a high seed that was playing poorly and might be vulnerable. 95X is the opposite. They actually shared a group with the Dragons last time, and finished second, qualifying for the World Cup in a playoff. What they did once they got there is another story. But that's not the important thing. The important thing is that 95X is engaged, active, and unlikely to be caught napping. They have a formidable team, and even the intercessions of the saints of the Staad van de Heiligen are unlikely to produce a positive result.

Havynwilde (288) - 2-2-2 BoF 72, Lost in Round of 32

Havynwilde is another side making their multiversal debut. They qualified for the playoffs of the BoF out of the same group as Baggieland, finishing an even 2-2-2 and bowing out to Zeta Reka in a tough penalty shooutout. Special consideration must be given to Shane Newman's side despite their undistinguished record so far. Why? Because they play an ultra-attacking 3-1-6, which simply tries to overwhelm the opponents with sheer pressure and numbers. When a team commits that much to the attack, you must respect that anything can happen. Additionally, this will be an away game, and you can bet that the Nordstadion will be packed to the rafters, with 40,000+ fans screaming for a defeat of de Dolfijnen. A hostile environment for sure.

And that's the first half. An optimist might look at this schedule and see a chance for de Dolfijnen to go 5-5-2, a result that would likely place them on the outside looking in, but competitive. A pessimist sees the potential for an 0-2-10 start, but I am a realist. I will predict a 3-5-4 first half, a result that would leave de Dolfijnen on 17 points, a perfectly good start for a team returning to the World Cup after some hiatus.

by **Kandorith** » Thu May 21, 2020 3:47 pm

Shinonome Kyoai - International
News From The Empire

Hayabusa Returns In Charge

Tenkyo, As the squad for the 85th World Cup has been narrowed down, head coach Ken Hayabusa says he has been looking for "competitive, mentally strong and physical tough players" to help Kandorith to enter the world cup for the first time since World Cup 67. The Kandorese national team has had it's ups and downs, mostly the record 9 - 5 defeat on aggregate against Cassadaigua in the World Cup 68 play-offs. Where there are worst instances of the team just falling short of qualifying, it will be the firstmost goal again; to qualify for the World Cup once again.

In a recent interview with Shinonome Kyoai, the 43-year-old manager said the current squad has been making strong progress toward the upcoming World Cup campaign, where Kandorith will face a few tough and earlier seen opponents. Kandorith has failed to appear on any World Cup since their first appearance decades ago, but Hayabusa has said that was not the main thing on his mind. "We are a fairly new team since I took charge and the first aim of course is qualifying, but the team had to be developed and lacked experience" he told reporters when asked about his views on the upcoming campaign. "We were a force to be reckoned with during the last Cup of Harmony and I am sure our edge has not dulled" he continued .

"We have a difficult road ahead of us but we will do our very best and bring our confidence and discipline to every match.

"All of our matches will be tough, there will be a lot of traveling for the away matches which are played in all kinds of different climates and environments," Hayabusa said when asked about the group they are facing. "Currently we are heavily investing to prepare the players to be at their best in both mental and physical condition, it is difficult but I have seen very good results.

The first team we will face in the qualifiers will be Monglechabagd and to be fair I have never heard about them nor would I know where this is." He said with a slight chuckle. " But Making a good start in this first match will be very important to us. How we will start the qualifiers will certainly influence how we will play throughout the rest of the campaign."

Monglechabagd, a side Kandorith has never faced before and came fresh out of the Baptism of Fire tournament where they stranded in the round of 32. More well known opponents for Kandorith are Equestria(8), HUElavia(23), Ancherion(59) and Xanneria(49). Kandorith, currently, during writing, standing at spot 66. It seems the group will be an uphill battle for the national team but, the Kandorese team has been known to surprise and sometimes even shock higher ranking teams before.

"I have been seeing great progress across the training grounds, that is for sure" said Hayabusa. "We have players who share the team concept, they inspire and compete with each other and want the win more than anything else. The development of individual players is making a great impact on the development of the entire team.

"However, we should not forget that we are underdogs in this group compared to some sides. We haven't been on a World Cup stage for decades and football still has lots of factors to be desired within the Empire. No matter how good our performance is, we still need to win. We will need the most ambitious players on the field for this. Playing a good match is not enough, playing a good match and winning is what we aim for."

The former Imakazawa Ravens coach has been in charge since the resignation of Saitou Moriyase after the previous World Cup and has already rose above the popularity of Moriyase. The performance of the Kandorese team during the 76th Cup of Harmony was legendary and has shown what kind of manager Hayabusa is. With a history of success and a system that is built to deconstruct the opponent, Hayabusa is one of the most prominent and outstanding coaches of the Kandorese football world.

"We feel the pressure on our shoulders, of course. This is normal for any professional football team," Hayabusa answered when asked about morale and pressure. "We will use and concert that pressure into energy so that we will qualify for the World Cup, this time Kandorith will be on the map of world football once again."

by **Krytenia** » Thu May 21, 2020 5:19 pm

GROUP FOURTEEN
A Pinsticker's Guide

OMERICA
NSWC Ranking: 96
Krytenia's Previous: P1, W1, D0, L0, F2, A0 (most recent: Krytenia 2-0 Omerica, World Cup 83 Playoffs)
Qualification Odds: 75/1
Matchday 1 Venue: Rutian Grounds, Ashton
Matchday 14 Venue: Stephen Reading Memorial Stadium, Christiana

There but for the grace of God, and all that. Omerica have fallen further than us in recent cycles, and now find themselves in a very tricky group. The Dragons will need to proceed with caution against a potentially dangerous opponent, but on paper should have enough to collect a maximum six points.

QASDEN
NSWC Ranking: 24
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 5/1
Matchday 2 Venue: TBC: likely Stade de Solis, Fyre
Matchday 15 Venue: Isserson Olympic Stadium, Emberton

Qasden qualified last time out...and probably wished they hadn't. Surprisingly, they've never met the Dragons in international competition; that's about to change.

NEWMANISTAN
NSWC Ranking: 46
Krytenia's Previous: P4 W1 D3 L0 F7 A6 (most recent: Krytenia 3-3 Newmanistan, Cup of Harmony 75 Group Phase)
Qualification Odds: 12/1
Matchday 4 Venue: Isserson Olympic Stadium, Emberton
Matchday 17 Venue: Keisler Stadium, Southport

The fifth and sixth meetings of the two teams playing for the friendly "Cyan Cup". Newmanistan have never beaten their stripe-clad opponents, but will be slight favourites going into the qualifiers. Match in Emberton is must-win for the Dragons, though both should have a real carnival atmosphere as the fans have a great deal of respect for each other.

OBEROUR AR MORO
NSWC Ranking: 128
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 100/1
Matchday 5 Venue: Parade Grounds, Regium
Matchday 18 Venue: Harbour Stadium, Stanton

A nation probably best known in these parts from the odd political situation of John 't Serclais, who played for New Cefn Albion as a stateless individual having left OAM. Surprisingly, the sides will face off for the first time ever on Matchday Five.

DRUNK PEOPLE AT THE LOCAL TAVERN
NSWC Ranking: 271
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 250/1
Matchday 6 Venue: Parc Abertawy, New Cefn
Matchday 19 Venue: Mriin's Backyard, Local Tavern

Baptism of Fire participants and a literal pub team writ large. At least a pint will be cheaper than most proper grounds.

VILITA
NSWC Ranking: 1
Krytenia's Previous: P7 W5 D1 L1 F23 A11 (most recent: Krytenia 3-4 Vilita, World Cup 84 Qualifying)
Qualification Odds: 1/12
Matchday 7 Venue: TBC: likely Lirai Asku Castle, Yeaddin
Matchday 20 Venue: Isserson Stadium, Emberton

Our friends across the Cove, Vilita finally broke their duck against the Dragons in the last World Cup Qualifying campaign. Krytenia wouldn't say no to a little payback. Expect the (in)famous Nwoko's Bar in Yeaddin to be popping, regardless of whether the city hosts the Matchday Seven game.

RIENA
NSWC Ranking: 196
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 150/1
Matchday 8 Venue: Downhead Park, Kallia
Matchday 21 Venue: Wavelet Arena, Nagato

From what little we've seen, a largely forgettable team. Six points a must here.

LEGALESE
NSWC Ranking: Unranked
Krytenia's Previous: P10 W4 D4 L4 F22 A18(most recent: Krytenia 4-0 Legalese, AOCAF 54 Group Phase)
Qualification Odds: 500/1
Matchday 9 Venue: TBC
Matchday 22 Venue: Southern Arena, Ousevale

A former powerhouse laid low. We feel sorry for them, mainly because they have to share a land border with Starblaydia.

SAINTLAND
NSWC Ranking: 85
Krytenia's Previous: P2 W1 D0 L1 F3 A1 (most recent: Krytenia 0-1 Saintland, World Cup 64 Qualifying)
Qualification Odds: 100/1
Matchday 10 Venue: New City Stadium, Avidia
Matchday 23 Venue: Royal Stadium, St Petrus

My, there's a lot of sleeping giants in this group! Saintland are probably the most comatose - we'd hope to roll them over without too many problems.

LAKE ESPER
NSWC Ranking: 243
Krytenia's Previous: P2 W1 D0 L1 F3 A1 (most recent: Krytenia 0-1 Saintland, World Cup 64 Qualifying)
Qualification Odds: 500/1
Matchday 11 Venue: TBC; likely to be in Esper City
Matchday 24 Venue: Orange Street, Beckton

Did well to get into the knockout stages of a very competitive Baptism of Fire. May struggle against the bigger fish of WCQs, though.

NORTH NEW SOUTH WALES
NSWC Ranking: Unranked
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 1,000/1
Matchday 12 Venue: ArenaWest, Aigburth
Matchday 25 Venue: Ridge Dome, Lightning Ridge

Nope, us neither. Next!

SOUTHERN ESPORTIVAN UNION
NSWC Ranking: 330
Krytenia's Previous: -no meetings-
Qualification Odds: 500/1
Matchday 13 Venue: Cayo Costa Football Complex, Cayo Costa
Matchday 26 Venue: TBC; either Isserson Olympic Stadium or Oxley Park, both Emberton

Another member of the Baptism of Fire crop, this small federation of islands will be up against it. Final qualifier location depends on whether or not Krytenia can still qualify.

by **Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom** » Thu May 21, 2020 6:11 pm

Zeta Reka & Hügeltaldom Federativna Republika Zeta Reka i Hügeltaldom
World Cup 85 Web Report Issue 1

It's a new tournament, with new challenges, a hard to read opponent, and all kinds of dirt. All of the twists and turns will be revealed here. This is the opening issue of the Zeta Reka World Cup 85 Web Report. Written by the team behind the Zeta Reka Football Dossiers, and available on RekaNet, the top news site in the nation, a subsidiary of RekaTV.

With twenty four matches, the national team is in for the long haul. It's a drag out battle that requires the team to punch above it's weight. Not losing is an essential part of the mission. Improving the attack is a goal that's understated. Even with the adversity, Zeta Reka has only lost one match in a group environment. The Rekans have placed at the top of both groups they have played in. Regional events and the baptism of fire have given the team the ability to refine itself, and local observers claim that the team is better than ever. Official team statements indicated the squad will continue to play the 4-5-1 from prior tournaments. The team ran, and will run, the staggered V in midfield on offense, and a flat line on defense. The starting roster appeared to be tougher on defense in local sports reports. The hardening was seen as a testimony to the teams desire for points again top pot countries. "We are being cautious, yes" Coach Dusan said in an exclusive interview with RekaTV, "However, we want to score as well."

The first test of these claims is The Elothera Dapeda of Talamia. The team's largest match ups come from the NAFT 2020, a tournament for socialist nations. The opposition is a contrast to Zeta Reka's defensive reputation. The 4-2-3-1 that Talamia lines up with is the same formation that the Rekan's lost to in qualification. Zeta Reka's experience against the formation should come in handy. The unpopular players who are blamed for the Rekan loss are not playing the match, and that gives locals confidence. A few regular starting players in attacking roles attacking will not start. Resting players for the next match countered local confidence with a tinge of pessimism.

Controversy has arose from the left wing status of Talamia. Katarina Eduard, member of parliament for the political party Pravda/Gerechtigkeit (eng: Justice), expressed support for the Talamia in the match. The social media backlash was swift, even from other left wing groups. Being the first tournament match hosted in Zeta Reka, activists from many places have promised to use the event as a vehicle for protest. "They are agitators," the president's spokesperson said in a statement to the press. One curious group are the "Complex Restoration Legion" who want to see all upgrades to the national stadium undone. Perhaps a victory will quell some of these protesters.

Starting Roster

GK 01: Bosko Nowak
LB 04: Janko Yakowić
CB 13: Jan Thimig
CB 03: Wladmir Bogdanić
RB 05: Bartolomej Wladmirowić
DM 06: Mullow Dorboslwić
LW 07: Jad
RW 19: Stojan Heiden
CM 10: Rybki (c)
CM 21: David Dix
ST 20: Bogdan Rawić

by **Hapilopper** » Thu May 21, 2020 6:30 pm

Lineup: GK #1 - HUGHES; DEF #2 - AYERS, #3 - McLAIN, #4 - PETERSON, #5 - ELLIS; MID #6 - FAIRBURN, #7 - BURTON, #8 - HUNNISETT, #9 - EAST; FWD #10 - RANDALL, #11 - STEVENSON
Subs: GK #60 - HARRIS; DEF #24 - DIBBLE, #26 - BLACKBURN; MID #21 - ERICKSON, #25 - BRANTLEY; FWD #14 - CORNETT, #12 - MORRIS

Hamilton Square, Hapilopper City
Leading up to Match Day 1: Hapilopper v. Sankt Konrad
For the first time in months, there had been considerable excitement concerning the Hapilopper National Football Team, an excitement not seen since the start of qualifying for the 83rd World Cup, when the Haps had burst on the scene as the winners of the Baptism of Fire that year, in one of the most dominant performances ever seen in a Baptism of Fire. The Haps came into World Cup 85 with a new coach, Buddy Martinez, a new 4-4-2 formation, some new players and a new attitude. The team had gotten used to each other during the AOCAF and during training sessions, and they felt they could accomplish anything, and beat anyone.

Thousands of Hapiloppians had converged on the sentimental center of town, Hamilton Square, a place where sports teams celebrated championships, young lovers proposed to each other and where sports fans dropped by to watch their favorite teams do battle on the grandest stages in the multiverse. People came here to watch NSSCRA races. They came here to watch Drake Stevenson in the World Grand Prix Championship. They came here to watch the Hapilopper National Baseball Team. And you damn bet they came here en masse to watch the Hapilopper National Football Team.

Several hours before the match,
Hamilton Square was packed.

It was several hours before the match, and there were already thousands of fans on hand for a viewing party. Lawn chairs were everywhere on the square and the surrounding streets, as were coolers and the smell of barbecue, along with the sound of some old-school tunes. It was truly a party atmosphere as this match, against The Reindeer from Sankt Konrad, a team that made it to the quarterfinals of the recently-completed Baptism of Fire, before getting knocked off by the very strong team from Tequilo.

A new team to the world of international football, many Hapiloppians were looking at their cell phones, watching footage from the Baptism of Fire to see just who to watch out for from the Reindeer. Some were watching highlights of goalkeeper Fretterat, while others were watching the defensive work from players like Simon Husch, Rede and Rasmos, while another group of fans nodded their heads in approval at goals scored by Lavo and Timo Hackl. The fans, as well as more seasoned veteran observers, could see a bit of Hapilopper in Sankt Konrad – a team from the Baptism of Fire that nobody could sleep on or look past. The team looked good in the highlights. With that last Baptism of Fire field, you had to be good to make it to the knockout stages.

But the fans also knew that the team from Hapilopper was a good one this year. Ernie Stevenson was joined at forward by Claire Randall, the stunning striker now playing her domestic matches in Baker Park; Beautiful Bobby East, one of the old “Midnight Express” trio from Garvinson, another goal threat; Murray Hunnisett and Auggie Burton, two of the key pieces in the central midfield; Fernie Fairburn, the noted party animal of the HNFT, and who could forget Nate Ellis, the resident thug of the team.

Nate, as a matter of fact, was getting himself hyped up in Sankt Konrad at this very point.

Der Hafen, Wilhelmstadt, Sankt Konrad
The same time
Anyone walking into the Hapiloppian locker room just before match time could hear a primal roar coming from near the back of the room and could immediately deduce that it was Nate Ellis getting himself ready for action. The other players just kept getting ready. They had been used to this routine. Nate would headbutt a locker, roar about as loudly as possible and give a crazed look to his teammates. It was not pleasant. As a matter of fact, it was downright frightening for those not used to Nathan Ellis, one of the most physical, and to tell the truth, one of the dirtiest, players in all of international football. He had suplexed players. Clotheslined them. Fishhooked them. Tripped them. All in the name of keeping the ball of Hapilopper’s net. A lot of times, it was successful. Sometimes, it wasn’t. Other times, people fought back, like Alexis Fotellis of Vdara. Nate was disappointed that the Hapiloppians didn’t get drawn with the Vdarans – he wanted to slam Fotellis into the turf with extreme prejudice for that kick to the face last year.

Yeah, thank God we didn't get Vdara.
No matter what we would have done,
Nate would have tried to kill that Fotellis guy.
We don't need that shit.

-Ernie Stevenson, quoted in the Hapilopper City Herald

For what it’s worth, the rest of the Haps didn’t mind. They didn’t want a match tainted by such violence.

Carl Peterson, a fellow defenseman, looked over to see a sizable dent in Nate’s locker in Der Hafen and shook his head. Nate was always an intense fellow, but this time, it seemed almost as if he wanted to go out to prove something – prove that he was still one of the most vicious players in all of football.

“OH YEAH, GONNA HAVE A PARTY TONIGHT!” Nate started roaring, over and over. He wanted to set an example out of every team the Haps faced in the World Cup Qualifiers – even Banija – en route to qualifying for their first World Cup proper. It was nothing personal against any of the nations. But Nate wanted to make that World Cup like nothing else.

HNFT head coach Buddy Martinez
was concerned for a number of reasons,
including Nate Ellis's potential behavior
in the qualifiers.

Ernie Stevenson, the leading striker for the team, looked over and shook his head.

“Look, Nate, we don’t need you hurting anybody or cheap-shotting a soul,” Ernie said. “We need you on the pitch and not suspended because you got an unnecessary red card. Do your deed, but don’t do anything stupid, you got me?”

“I got you, Stevenson,” Nate said. “We’re gonna kick some ass tonight.”

“Well, yeah, but… don’t do anything stupid.”

When the team went out on the pitch for their final warm-up, they couldn’t help but notice how different Der Hafen was from Capital Stadium. There were only 2,500 seats here in the stadium in Wilhelmstadt, compared to the 60,000 plus that could fill Hapilopper’s de facto national stadium. This was going to be a different atmosphere for the Haps, one that they feared could play into their opponent’s favor.

Head coach Buddy Martinez, getting ready for his first World Cup Qualifier as the gaffer for the HNFT, looked wary. He was a more restrained head coach than Thom Perkins, who was probably sitting on a boat on Lake Eclipse in Hapilopper somewhere. There were jitters, related to this being the first match of 26 for the World Cup Qualifiers, but there were also fears that the team might not perform up to expectations. Numerous pundits had predicted that this was the year for Hapilopper to qualify. But what if they didn’t?

Those answers would be realized some time from now. The time for the first match was now.

by **Recuecn** » Thu May 21, 2020 8:14 pm

Pitelet go into Sportswear; Unveil New Reçueçn NT Kit

Pitelet at the unveiling ceremony

Anne-Sophie Pitelet made headlines again today, but for perhaps the first time, somewhere outside the art section. Pitelet's fashion brand, which bears her name, is not unfamiliar to Reçuecians. However, it has always been a high-end luxury brand, affordable only for those more well-to-do. Thus the announcement at a gala hosted by the Ministry of Sport last evening that the Pitelet brand would be making a move into the sportswear sector came as a surprise to many.

The simultaneous announcement that les licornes would finally be receiving a new kit, was not, on the other hand, much of a shock to anyone. The old kit, which was designed for the fifty-ninth Baptism of Fire, had previously been described by foreign sportswriters as "looking like a jester's outfit" or "painful to look at." At their kindest, even Reçuecian fans called it "old-fashioned" (read "ugly"). Although the Pitelet kit has been unveiled to mixed criticism, it has received unanimous acclaim for being "at least[...] better than the old one."

The old kit

Critics of the new kit call it "simple" and "uninspired". One source we interviewed at the unveiling, who wished to remain anonymous, thought that where the old uniform had tried to do too much, the new one did too little: "Obviously they were always going to use the colors of the flag. But there's not a much lazier way to do that than to just slap them all on the shirt right next to each other. The fans wanted a bit of a surprise, something fresh, something new. This seems like something an amateur drew up in an an open-source photo editing program. It's not really a new take at all."

Yet others defended the new look. "You don't want something over-complicated, especially not when you've only really got one design to work with," said Bonheur Relié, assistant manager for the national team, present at the unveiling. "If we had three different kits all with different color combinations, one or two of them could attempt something daring. But for your main kit, you want something classic that fans will be able to look back at some day with nostalgia. You need a simple, iconic look that can represent the nation. Especially since you have to admit this is our first real kit."

Relié's boss, ENRF manager Jacques Tremblay, focused more on what the team would be doing while wearing the uniform than on the shirt itself. "Reçueçn is at a place in international football where it's never been before. We've accomplished amazing things, despite no one having heard of us. But now we've reached a place were we're starting to see some of the recognition we've earned. We're ranked in the top thirty. For the first time, we're not the underdogs, and we can consider ourselves a world-class team. So it's only fitting to give our players a world-class jersey. It's a new look for a new Reçuecian team, and the future's only getting brighter."

The future seems to be getting brighter as well for Pitelet. The public seems enthusiastic about the company's new venture, and doesn't seem to be of the opinion that expanding into a plebeian market such as sportswear will hurt the rest of the brand's products, all fashion-related or lines of luxury clothing. This morning, Pitelet stock opened 9.8% higher. For a marque that has always been focused on the Reçuecian market, capitalizing on the patriotic spirit uniquely found surrounding international football clearly telegraphs the firm's intentions and values. Visibility on the soccer field during high-profile matches may also help Pitelet to gain recognition of its own in overseas markets.

Mme. Pitelet seemed excited at the unveiling ceremony last night, laughing and chatting with Tremblay as the pair presented together. "This is the start of many new things for Pitelet," she announced with a beaming smile, before adding, "Just as it is the start of many new things for l'équipe nationale de Reçueçn de Football." Industry insiders surmise that the "new things" Pitelet referred to may be a new expansion beyond merely sportswear. Recent moves on her company's part may hint at the possible addition of a new chain of apparel stores. The potential new chain would still have a focus on fashion but would focus on providing much more affordable prices. Different regional officials have expressed hopes that a new chain might also mean new garment factories, bringing a revival to Reçueçn's minuscule manufacturing sector, but it seems most likely that such would not be the case; current wage levels in Reçueçn make offshoring of such jobs highly likely, according to industry experts.

Images of the new Pitelet Reçueçn jerseys are printed below. Left: home. Right: away.

OOC: Thanks to Delaclava for letting me bounce kit designs off him and giving me his opinion. All the good parts (and only those) were his ideas.

World Cup 81/82/83/84

© Sporting Times Daily 2020
BP now the hunted in WCQ
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Editor

The Commonwealth National Team opened training camp at the FAC Development Center in Charter Township 17 days ago, welcoming 55 players to form the pool of candidates who will contest the first qualifying campaign of the Ichi Tuzzio era, and the first since the WC 83 cycle.

Baker Park will enter the competition looking to extend their record streak of Finals appearances from their NSWC debut to six in a row; they will also be the top seed in Group 5 and look to hold off several competitive, respected sides to finish in the top two.

Tuzzio's first mixed gender training camp kicked off with a first day of term atmosphere, as the men and women were together for the first time since the end of the last World Cup. For several of the younger players, who got their first caps in either the AOCAF or the Wonder Cup, it was a chance to get acquainted with the senior members of the squad and learn a few of the unique 'traditions' that the NT have developed during the mixed gender iteration.

The first squad meeting gave the manager a chance to finally expand upon his managerial philosophy, his ideas and impressions of the current NT setup, and his goals for the near future to everyone who would be involved.
He announced that Derrick Briggs and Tracey Vasillias would remain team co-captains through qualifying; women's NT manager & assistant manager Jen Prescott & Will Bernard would be very involved with the squad during qualifying, and that the only real difference that the players should notice between himself and Pam Scott was a matter of style over substance.
"I have an enormous respect for (Scott) in spite of the fact we have only spoken to one another over the telephone; I also believe that Baker Park has the talent that is equal to Farfadillis, otherwise I would not be here. I hope we will be able to adapt to one another quickly."

The format of the WCQ that will produce the 30 nations who will descend on Mriin and the defending champions home, will be the longest that the NT have encountered; 15 groups of 13 nations each will battle for the right to progress, which will result in 24 matches.

The Group draw produced a schedule for the Commonwealth that could be interpreted in different ways; the bye week will come on the last matchday of both halves, and are preceded by series of matches against mainly the lower ranked sides in the group. The bulk of top contenders will come in quick succession during MD's 3-6, with the 2nd & 3rd seeds--Zwangzug and The Maccabees--bookending the 7th seed Valladares.

The split squad qualifying concept appears to be on the front burner once again for the FAC, although how it will operate is still a mystery right now.

by **Port Ember** » Fri May 22, 2020 1:06 am

Port Emberian Times

The Road to World Cup 85 Edition

THE ROAD TO THE FOOTBALL WORLD CUP 85 IS UPON US

The long awaited and highly anticipated moment has finally arrived to satisfy the nation's desperate craving for entertainment and glory - The Football World Cup 85 has arrived!

This year's qualification campaign is boding to be highly entertaining, loaded with anticipation and expectations of our team once again smashing their way thoigh to the grandest stage of them all. When Port Ember managed to snatch a spot within the Cup proper during the last rendition, it was a shock and surprise for the entire world - including our own nation. This year however, the same result is both expected and demanded.

Port Ember has been drawn into Group 8 for the Qualification Campaign, and were drawn as part of Pot 3 for the draw process. Our national team will compete against 12 nations and will play each of them twice (to a total of 24 games), once at home and once away. The top two teams of each group snatches a spot for the Grand Stage. The following teams comprises Group 8:

- Quakmybush
- Petroslovania
- Atheist Democratic Freehold
- Ko-oren
- Port Ember
- The Holy Empire
- Cheergirls
- Vlasisitan
- Devonta
- Daskel
- Mattijana
- Indusse
- Tequilo

We will cover the teams in depth in later publications of the Road to World Cup 85 edition.

About our own National Team.

The national team of Port Ember, nicknamed the "Dragons" (due to our national animal - the Komodo Dragon being the logo of the team), is currently ranked as the 40th best team in the world according to the KPB rankings - a spot which we earned in a rapid fashion, since this upcoming campaign is only our third International Cycle. There are a lot of expectations on our side after our surprise qualification to the world cup proper the last time round (even though we were slaughtered with 3 straight losses). But still, the fans are demanding a repeat in this success, unwilling to accept a drop in standards. The team which is put forward for this campaign is the exact same squad which qualified in the previous cycle - including both the players and coaching staff, so there is most definitely excellent chemistry and team work foundations in place. If the Independant Association Cup 9 earlier this year is any indication of our teams future performance (where we brought home bronze), we are in for some exciting matches.

Trivial But Fun Facts

- All home matches will be played at the Lilly Black Memorial Stadium, situated in the Lilly Black Borough of Port Ember Megalopolis. This is a brand new stadium which was constructed specifically to house the national team after the Port Ember Premier League Club, the Waterstad Pirates demanded more field time for their own club on their own field - the Waterstad International Stadium, which served as the temporary home for our national team. This stadium will see it's very first match played against Daskel during Match Day 1 of the qualifiers.

- Our national team will travel, reside and train on the PEFA Argie SilverPine when traveling to compete in their away games. This vessel is a purpose build modified Novel-class Mobile City Ship, which was build by Silverport Dockyard Ltd (located within The Free Lands of the Selkie). This marvelous beast was constructed as a mobile training camp with traveling capacities and entertainment facilities to allow the national team to travel to and from games easily, without the stress of flight traveling.

World Cupn85 Qualifiers Schedule

Matchday 1: Port Ember vs Daskel (Home)
Matchday 2: Mattijana vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 3: Port Ember vs Indusse (Home)
Matchday 4: Tequilo vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 5: Port Ember vs Quakmybush (Home)
Matchday 6: Petroslovania vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 7: Port Ember vs Atheist Democratic Freehold (Home)
Matchday 8: Ko-oren vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 9: Bye
Matchday 10: Port Ember vs The Holy Empire (Home)
Matchday 11: Cheergirls vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 12: Port Ember vs Vlasisitan (Home)
Matchday 13: Devonta vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 14: Daskel vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 15: Port Ember vs Mattijana (Home)
Matchday 16: Indusse vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 17: Port Ember vs Tequilo (Home)
Matchday 18: Quakmybush vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 19: Port Ember vs Petroslovania (Home)
Matchday 20: Atheist Democratic Freehold vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 21: Port Ember vs Ko-oren (Home)
Matchday 22: Bye
Matchday 23: The Holy Empire vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 24: Port Ember vs Cheergirls (Home)
Matchday 25: Vlasisitan vs Port Ember (Away)
Matchday 26: Port Ember vs Devonta (Home)

Media Coverage

- The Port Emberian Times has exclusive interview rights with the National Team and will thus cover each match build up and review, mixed in with a interview with Coach Baxter. As this is a daily paper, you will get all the info on time.

- The Megasports 2 tv channel will cover all the Port Emberian matches live.

- The Megasports 7 tv channel well cover the replay match during the following day of all Port Emberian matches.

- Megasports 8 - 20 will cover all other international matches played as part of the Qualifiers.

Port Emberian Times

The Road to World Cup 85 Edition

MATCHDAY 1 WIND UP

Match Day 1: Port Ember vs Daskel

It's the opening match for our national team as part of the World Cup 85 Qualifiers, Group 8.

Location: The match is to be played at the Lilly Black Memorial Stadium, situated within the Lilly Black Borough of Port Ember Megalopolis. This will be the first ever match to be played within this brand new stadium, nicknamed the "Dragon's Lair" - and is predicted to be fully packed come game day.

Team Breakdown: Port Ember

- International Ranking: 40.
- Current Standing in Group 8: N/A
- Momentum: N/A
- Formation: 4-4-2
- Playstyle High Octane Offensive Play
- Kit to be used for next match: Main Kit (White & Blue)

What can be said about the Dragons which was not allready said before? Our team is young, hungry and talented. They have tasted qualification during the previous cycle, and have just tasted bronze during the IAC9. They will be looking to steamroll from early on in this competition to build momentum.

Starting XI
- Goalkeeper (GK)(#1): Peter Smith.
- Center Back (CB)(#2): Josh Richards.
- Center Back (CB)(#3): Jason Lee.
- Full Back (LB)(#4): Alex Kuhn.
- Full Back (RB)(#5): Russel Pierce.
- Attacking Midfield (AM)(#10): Ray Reddington. (C)
- Defensive Midfield (DM)(#6): Steven Packard.
- Wide Midfield (LM)(#8): Jason Chamberlain.
- Wide Midfield (RM)(#11): Eric Tosaír of the Tribe of Waterford
- Central Forward (CF)(#7): Leon Moult.
- Central Forward (CF)(#9): Danny Nicovic.

Team Breakdown: Daskel

- International Ranking: 317
- Current Standing in Group 8: N/A
- Momentum: N/A
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Playstyle Moderate and Continious Offensive Play

No starting roster has been made available by the time of print.

The Republic of Daskel National Football Team is a team quite new to the international football scene, and so far have failed to make any waves during their few performances. So far they have participated in only two tournaments, which was the Independent Association Cup 9, where they were knocked out in the group stages after losing all three of their matches. Port Ember also partook in this tournament, where we managed to snatch the 3rd overall spot at the end of the Cup. The second International tournament in which Daskel participated within, was the esteemed Baptism of Fire Cup - rendition #72. Most Port Emberians will remember the Baptism of Fire Cup fondly, as it was with the BoF 73 where our own national team stormed the international football scene for the first time and grabbed the bronze. Daskel struggled to find their rhythm in the BoF, managing to win one match, whilst drawing one and losing three - thus being knocked out in the group stages.

An Analyst's Input - How do we win this one?!?

Honestly there is not much for me to say here. Our national team is clearly in a different league. We are more experienced and more driven than our opponents. However its important to stay humble and continue to work hard - upsets happens in a flash! Our team should just stick to the basics and their normal gameplan, and this should go well." - Gerhard Black, Football Analyst and Journalist for Port Ember Times.

by **The Jovannic** » Fri May 22, 2020 2:24 am

How are you today, Gothal?

Why?

We have been drawn up against Alba and Cyrmu.

Who?

Alba and Cyrmu.

Who are they?

No idea coach.

Well, continue the training schedule.

Yes Coach.

As Jovan and his teammates continue their new rigorous Training, Gothal Mathee and his team of researchers find the Alba and Cyrmu Roster.

What do they have?

They have the Bastion of Bavaria or something.

Whats that?

A goalkeeper.

Hows he?

It says here he is a wonderful Keeper and lets in like almost no goals.

Well Joshua Li can be better. Who else?

Not Lionel Messi?

Sounds very familiar. Jovan can beat him. I've seen Jovan in action. Whats their style? Gothal sips his coffee, looking out of the window.

Very defensive sir.

We can pound them til they are weak. Then we can push up and overload the attack on them. The defense cannot hold. They won't hold.

Yes Sir.

Gothal Mathee watching training.

by **Ko-oren** » Fri May 22, 2020 2:35 am

Host City Announcements

Ko-oren v Mattijana (4) @ Willowbowl (55000) in Willowbourne, Gehrenna
Indusse v Ko-oren (7)
Ko-oren v Tequilo (8) @ Orange Bowl (54000) in Schemerdrecht, Intermare
Quakmybush v Ko-oren (6)
Ko-oren v Petroslovania (9) @ Rikalathen Arena (39000) in Maethoru, Mayara
Atheist Democratic Freehold v Ko-oren (10)
BYE
Ko-oren v Port Ember (3) @ Stade sur la Baie (70000) in Aminey, Cote Austral
The Holy Empire v Ko-oren (1)
Ko-oren v Cheergirls (13) @ Estádio Fortaleza (29000) in Santa Teresa, Finisterre
Vlasisitan v Ko-oren (12)
Ko-oren v Devonta (5)@ Suzumebachi Stadium (25000) in Katashi, Yoshima
Daskel v Ko-oren (11)

Mattijana v Ko-oren (4)
Ko-oren v Indusse (7) @ Northern Arena (32000) in Aevanna, Aerellen
Tequilo v Ko-oren (8)
Ko-oren v Quakmybush (6) @ Hazel Arena (18500) in Straudum, Sudaefjoll
Petroslovania v Ko-oren (9)
Ko-oren v Atheist Democratic Freehold (10) @ The Palace (34000) in Eaglebury, West Strand Riding
BYE
Port Ember v Ko-oren (3)
Ko-oren v The Holy Empire (1) @ Surbourneshire Square (65000) in Greencaster, Surbourneshire
Cheergirls v Ko-oren (13)
Ko-oren v Vlasisitan (12) @ Hertfield (33000) in Mawrystwyth, Mawryshire
Devonta v Ko-oren (5)
Ko-oren v Daskel (11) @ Top Brass Arena (19500) in Bruncester, Surbourneshire

The Dragonflies go all over the archipelago for this marathon qualification series. At 195 nations in 15 groups - that's 13 teams per group - we're staring at an insanely long qualification series. The KFA has decided that the national team will receive our 12 opponents in all but one of our subdivisions (we're very sorry, Nordoren/Poolrugge), giving everyone the opportunity to see the team in action. Climate and weather will play a part in our qualification campaign - and instead of getting surprised whenever we get suboptimal conditions abroad, the KFA decided to put our opponents in odd situations where necessary as well. Anything to find an edge over out adversaries.

We start off fine, with the temperate climates of Willowbourne and Schemerdrecht. Willowbourne's dry heat, then Schemerdrecht's temperate, occasionally chilly, coastal conditions. We then stay on the Bay of Ko-oren for a few home games: Maethoru and Aminey. All are extremely similar to Schemerdrecht, though you can expect each city to be a few degrees warmer than the previous one. The Cheergirls are the first team to find out about our odd climate with Santa Teresa's desert-like heat, turbulent winds, and a near-zero chance of rain. Drink breaks will be in place here. Continuing east from the Bay, via Finisterre, we will play Devonta in Katashi: still warm, but extremely humid this time. Indusse will get the complete reverse of that: Aevanna will be freezing around that time of year, and we might need a supply of orange balls in case of snow. Staying in the north for a little, the Hazel Arena is also in rotation. Quakmybush won't feel the cold as much - but it's still by far the second coldest town in rotation. The last few destinations are in the southwest - not often part of football tours - with Eaglebury as the most experimental destination. Greencaster is next, with very little football hosting experience (only their second international match ever!) but hosting the Holy Empire in the country's second largest stadium. Vlasisitan is to visit Mawrystwyth, way out southwest, and Daskel will then travel to Bruncester, in the southeast. Mawryshire is known for its agreeable climate but terrible winds (and Eaglebury might have some of that as well), while Bruncester is already in the direction of Santa Teresa and should feel stuffy.

These places differ in terms of tourism value and football history. Schemerdrecht, Maethoru, Aminey, Santa Teresa, Katashi, Straudum, and Bruncester are football hotbeds - though Aminey shares its sports with rugby league, and Santa Teresa and Yoshima like their baseball as well. In terms of city life, Aminey, Willowbourne, Greencaster, Yoshima, and Schemerdrecht are the best. Those who prefer a smaller town, with plenty of nature nearby, do best to consider Katashi, Aevanna, Straudum, Eaglebury, or Mawrystwyth.

Willowbourne, Greencaster, Straudum, Aevanna, Mawrystwyth, and Eaglebury have all hosted fewer than five international matches. All other places have seen dozens of foreign teams coming through.

Be sure to pair up your visit with a few other sports matches - there's always events going on. Welcome to Ko-oren!

"Hey, how about I read out a few team names, and you tell me the pot they're in. Remember, there are 13 pots."

"Uhh, I don't know how that adds to anything, but alright, whatever floats your boat."

"Vilita, Eu-"

"Pot 1."

"Electrum, Blouman Empire, -"

"Pot 2."

"Wrong. Same pot: Kytler Peninsulae, Delaclava, -"

"Pot 3 then."

"Still wrong. Let's continue: Cheergirls, Jeckland, -"

"Pot 4, surely."

"Wrong. Again. Patistan, Sharktail, -"

"Pot 5. 6. 7. 8. You've got to be kidding me."

"Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. So wrong."

"Then what is it?"

"13."

"Bullshit."

by **Riennic Isles** » Fri May 22, 2020 2:50 am

Kanata Shiranami didn't much like the television. It was always a bane to her, an unwelcome distraction whenever her attention was occupied, all the more so if she was doing something that required her full and undivided focus. She forgot where she'd heard the term 'idiot box' used to describe the television - probably from some pot-banging radical she'd accidentally followed on social media - but as far as Kanata was concerned, it was an apt description for a device that buzzed about in the background, emitting a stream of ambient noise that stopped her from doing anything productive whatsoever.

But today was a different story. Early on in the morning, Kanata had trooped into the ramshackle canteen that was part of the Riena squad's training campus and switched on the ancient cathode ray tube monstrosity that sat in the corner. She was still trying to to get the damned contraption to work when the rest of her squad began to filter in for the morning, yawning and rubbing theire eyes as they collected their breakfast trays and found themselves a place to sit and eat. Munching on their rice, the players watched on with interest as Kanata fiddled with the television's massive bug-like antennae what seemed like an eternity. At long last, baffled by the television's stubborn refusal to perform the function for which it was designed, Kanata threw her hands up in the air and brought her fist crashing down on the devil's box in frustration. A cloud of thick, choking dust sprang forth from the blasted contraption and enveloped her from head to toe. The players had to stop themselves from sniggering as their manager emerged from the cloud of dust, looking for all the world as though she'd just fallen into a tub of flour.

Hijiri Sakuranami, ever the reliable presence, hastily seized a damp washcloth from a passing member of staff and wiped her fuming manager down, trying to get as much of the dust off as she could. In the meantime, one of the cannier players had sensed looming danger, and quickly ran off to the office to borrow Kanata's assistant, Nao Tomori, and her tablet. By the time Hijiri had managed to get most of the dust out of Kanata's hair, her tech-savvy assistant had managed to jury-rig her tablet to an old projector. Peeved, Kanata watched as Nao finished connecting the last cable and dimmed the lights. It took a few seconds for the projector to crackle into life, casting a fuzzy image on the plaster walls of the canteen.

I should've gotten Nao to do all this in the first place.

After splashing her face with some water and getting a breakfast tray of her own, Kanata settled down with the rest of the squad to watch the draw for the World Cup - or, perhaps more appropriately, the World Cup qualifiers. Even though you'd have to put her on a rack to get her to admit it, Kanata had been quite pleased with the level of performance that Riena had turned in at the Baptism of Fire - aside from the thrashing they'd suffered at the hands of a superior Tequilo. It was just a pity that they could never manage to decisively defeat their opponents, and that had proven to be their downfall as they were edged out on penalties in their semifinal against Mavinet, who of course went on to win the whole shebang. Fourth place had been a bitter pill to swallow for the fiercely competitive Kanata, but she was determined to put the Baptism of Fire behind her. Now was not the time to be crying over spilled milk. The World Cup qualifiers were imminent. Kanata would be lying if she said that the thought of playing the multiverse's top teams didn't ignite her competitive spirit.

Kanata swallowed a mouthful of seaweed soup and watched the draw for the qualifiers play out on the cracked plaster wall in front of her. She didn't pay too much attention to the early stages of the draw, but did note, with some interest, that Kita-Hinode had been drawn into what seemed a relatively easy Group 2. Only when the draw progressed to the teams from pot 8 did Kanata really sit up and pay attention to the proceedings, hanging on intently to every word.

'And ... in Group 14 ... the team from pot 8 is Riena!'

Au audible gasp escaped the players as the words left the announcer's lips, and a buzz of hushed conversation broke out in the darkened canteen. Unfazed, Kanata polished off the remains of her breakfast and beckoned Nao over. Her assistant duly obliged, passing her phone, which had the official World Cup site open, over to Kanata. She skimmed through the teams that had already been drawn into the group - Qasden, Newmanistan, Saintland ... all teams with a proud footballing tradition, and teams Kanata recognised as formidable opponents in their own right. But the cherry on top of the cake was, of course, Vilita. By a pure stroke of luck, they had somehow managed to draw the top-ranked team in the entire World Cup in their group. Numero uno in the multiverse, bar none.

Kanata's eyes lingered on the six letters for a moment, and an ironic smile spread across her face.

By the time the draw was conducted to completion, Kanata had a few more things to think about. Out of the teams from pots 9 through 13 that had been drawn into their group, Kanata had a passing familiarity with Lake Esper and the Southern Esportiva Union, both teams who had been in this cycle's Baptism of Fire. Of course, there had been one last twist in the draw for Group 14, and that had been the inclusion of Legalese from pot 12. A quick check of the finalised schedule confirmed that Legalese would be Riena's first ever opponents in the World Cup qualifiers. Kanata didn't know a whole lot about their opposition from Atlantian Oceania, but from the immediate media reaction to the draw, she managed to glean that Legalese were a former footballing powerhouse that had been laid low by the passage of time. This would be their first appearance in the World Cup qualifiers for many, many cycles.

All in all, Kanata concluded, Group 14 was in with a fair shout of being the cycle's group of death. And yet, she wasn't unduly bothered about facing the likes of Legalese, or Saintland, or even Vilita. No one reasonable was expecting Riena to get anywhere near qualifying. Kanata and her team effectively had a free hit in their debut cycle. Aiming for lofty targets - Finals qualification or a Cup of Harmony invitation - could wait for later. Right now, all Kanata wanted was for her team to walk out onto the pitch with their heads held high in pride, and to give every single team in their group a good match - because at the end of the day, it was all about the journey, wasn't it?

'A handful of former multiversal giants, a sprinkling of minnows from the Baptism of Fire, and the number one team in the entire multiverse. What could go wrong?'

A lot could go wrong, Kanata reckoned; but at the same time, not a lot could go wrong. She tipped the last drops of tea down her throat, picked up her tray, and headed off to the kitchen to drop it off.

They would make the short jaunt across Nagato to the Wavelet Arena tomorrow. First up - Legalese.

by **Jeruselem** » Fri May 22, 2020 4:20 am

Princess Katherine Annabelle Dallas (nude) aka Princess Kate with Queen Elsa I of Jeruselem

Kate:
HEY, this is Naked News Jeruselem and you what time it is. The football is back and we're back to cover all action.
I'm Princess Katherine Annabelle Dallas, or as most people know me - Princess Kate.
Also known as Princess Annabelle or as some call me Corona-Chan ... I hate that name.
Anyway, I'm with our leader Queen Elsa I, or just that bitch according to some.
IT'S WORLD CUP 85 or World Cup LXXXV if you use Roman numerals.

Elsa: Hello subjects, no I haven't retired as yet.

Kate:
World Cup 85, hosted by Mriin and Farfadillis with some help from Kelssek and Zwangzug - all of which we've encountered in the past.
The qualification stage is 15 groups with 13 teams each
Of course, we're in it not just our good looks. It would be nice to qualify.

Elsa: Yes well, last time was in World Cup 82.

Kate:
This time round we're got a new coach and a younger team. Let's look at the group we got stuck in. It's Group 7. We're not covering other 14 teams now, that might take while.

Elsa: I have to go in half an hour anyway.

Kate: Well Group 7 has some familiar names. Darmen, Delaclava, Welzat, Nephara and Sarzonia. Yes, Darmen are stalking us again.
Elsa: Yes, they must like us.
Kate: Oldtimers Sarzonia, not anywhere near their best but they are here.
Elsa: Yes, good to see them around.
Kate: The others - we've run into them in the past.
Elsa: Well as long as it's not Starblaydia anyway.

Kate: The other team of which I never heard of but anyway ... Aimena, Acronius, Simpralia, Great Lausitz, Huayramarca, Competitive Solitaire, South Charlia
Elsa: Yes well we'll find out soon anyway.
Kate: We do have mention a few things that have changed since well, the last cup.
Elsa: Oh yes ...

Kate:
We're a bit more health conscious round here now. No, not that going Vegan rubbish.
Due to an outbreak of some nasty bat virus, there's new rules governing public events especially the World cup events.
Well put it this way, you're not allowed into public premises or events if you're displaying symptoms of Cold or flu.
And we expect, you know a certain level of hygiene as well.
However, we're not into forced vaccinations as we know sometimes the vaccinations can be bit ... what would say ... worse than the original condition

Elsa: Kate almost died from one flu vaccine once, she doesn't take them.
Kate: You know some people are allergic to those vaccines
Elsa: Actually your Mum is the same, doesn't agree with her either.
Kate: I won't be signing for them vaccine trials anytime soon
Elsa: But I guess most people aren't like that.
Kate: There's always people like me out there. Anyway, when you do some here - just practice good hygiene.

Elsa: Yeah, we have laws here for people who don't ... like people who like to sneeze on others for fun
Kate: Be considerate of others
Elsa: Or just don't be an asshat
Kate: Yes, if you deliberately start spreading germs we got laws for you too.
Elsa: Which includes a free cremation

Kate:
Well, that's in extreme cases. I guess that's all for now. I can cover those other 14 groups later.
And we speak to the new coach - and his funny hair.

Elsa: Oh yes him
Kate: See you all later!

by **Hampton Island** » Fri May 22, 2020 6:30 am

Conversation between Stadium CEO and Manager Hannah Sanders

Sanders: Is this some kind of a joke?

CEO: Don’t talk like that to me.

Sanders: Sorry but like even I know that there is like no way that I can have a winning team with a bunch of old guys.

CEO: You’ll find a way. And they are not all old. The goalie is not even 50 yet.

Sanders: This is so wrong. Why would you do this to me? I want my friends back!

CEO: Should I show you the Campionato Esportiva group standings again?

Sanders: That was hard!

CEO: You failed to get this team in the top four of a six team group, Hannah. I expected that and you know that.

Sanders: We were in a tough group. Like totally really tough. The two teams that played in like the championship came out of our group.

CEO: There were two more spots after them.

Sanders: We would have done better in a weaker group.

CEO: Hannah, you know I really like you. Your pretty face is a big reason why I keep you around. But if you wanted me to treat you like a real manager, then you need to realize real quick that real managers get sacked for performances like you had in the Campionato Esportiva. You should be happy that you still have this job. As for your friends, they didn’t get the job done, and they were not entitled to return. I gave you and them a chance, and they did not come through. I might have low expectations but I still have some expectations, and you did not meet them. So like I said, you figure out how to get us to play respectfully in the qualifiers. I don’t expect the team to qualify, but I do expect us not to be embarrassed out there. Are we clear?

Sanders: Yeah I guess.

CEO: The team that you have now is loaded with former league MVP’s and all stars. These are legendary players in the country with many actually in the Hall of Fame already. They know how to play the game. Instead of thinking about what the obvious weakness is with this age group, focus on the positives, and that is that they are knowledgeable, accomplished, and motivated.

Sanders: And they’ll be slow. And not be physical.

CEO: So you play a defensive game. Max out the defense. We can call it a 4-4-2 officially but in reality it’s going to be like a 7-2-1.

Sanders: That is so boring. Like who is going to watch that, I thought you want good ratings.

CEO: Their age group will watch. And they represent the largest percentage of TV viewers on the island. You’re generation doesn’t care enough to watch. They just want to turn on their phone, check the score, and go back to what they were doing before.

Sanders: I guess. That’s not really that fair though.

CEO: We got some recognizable names in the group. Banija, Hapilopper, and Valentine Z. Lisander is too, kind of. They may get your generation interested, but they’re not going to watch us play Bunkaiia, Floyssau, and Caelapes in the same way that the older generation will. That’s why it is fair, sweetheart.

Sanders: I never heard of those last three countries.

CEO: Neither have your peers, which is why they will not watch. And they’ll likely be the games we have a better chance to win.

Sanders: Still why couldn’t I have current good players.

CEO: Enough with that, the roster is what it is. I want at least sixth place, Hannah. That’s a modest goal. Like I said, I don’t expect you to qualify or to even be a threat for it. But I want at least sixth. Seventh won’t get you fired. Eighth or lower, then this is the last cycle you are the manager. I’d let you manage in the Cup of Harmony if we were still invited, but that would be it. This is the first time I have given you this sort of ultimatum. Sixth or better is the goal. Seventh, I tolerate. Eighth or worse, you’re done. Good luck.

Sanders: Yeah, ok. Thank you.

by **Electrum** » Fri May 22, 2020 6:58 am

Part 1

Part 2 - Time particles, not bowel disease

"Look, just tell me what you want." Wallace had rather astutely surmised that any resistance was futile. If this so-called fifth dimensional entity could conjure a holographic screen in her private office without warning, and had supposedly saved the country from being stuck in a time loop, it was best to speak in a less adversarial manner. She didn't have a university education - she put that on hold to raise her children by herself - but she was street smart. It was one of the advantages of Electrum's sortition system - the highest office of the land wasn't reserved for a pallid, retired politician, but rather for the common person.

"We wish to stay here and help you rebuild, as your nation's generous saviours and benefactors," replied The Computator. Wallace could see on screen that the four head tentacles going into the speaker started to pulse violently. "Your scientists should not have played with those chron particles. When we saw you all floating around in the interdimensional soup, in between the crouton field and the asteroid stew, we simply augmented your reality to realign you with this reality. In the process, this nation lost many years -- you've moved in time, but not really."

"Oh yeah, so I got my top scientists to look at this really annoying inflammatory bowel disease that I had, to see if there was any cure?"

"Chrons not Crohn's," replied The Computator quickly. One of the guards still surrounding Governor-General Wallace couldn't help but snort at the confusion. Wallace suddenly realised that it was probably not the best to have a contingent of people surrounding you like a human shield when you're trying to negotiate with a fifth-dimensional entity who wanted to be the nation's 'saviours and benefactors.' So she dismissed her guards, while The Computator continued.

"We understand you may not trust as initially. We promise that we will do everything to gain you and your nation's trust. It's hard being a fifth-dimensional being, you know that right? When you have four voices being piped into your head via four thought-tubes, constantly yammering, it's just annoying. You know we could have chosen not to have saved you at all -- you would have been left to your devices, waiting 2ca5g years for a seventh dimensional entity to save you lot. Hah! Your nation could have come back at the start of qualifying for World Cup 1093! You're lucky we could augment you in time for World Cup 85! We just had to use our pocket dimension that was conveniently west-south-north-east of Rushmore."

Wallace's heart skipped a beat - she had realised that she was due to greet the Electrumite national team later that day, returning home after their Round of 16 loss to Valanora in World Cup 80. Was the whole world already up to World Cup 85? Selina Wallace slunk in her chair. That was really the final straw. Being a football nut, she knew that an absence of more than three World Cups meant that Electrum would have dropped to zero points in the meantime.

The Computator, continuing to speak in a monotone voice, sensed the Governor-General's concerns. "We understand from our sources that your country has a national tribe, whose objective is to use their lower limbs to place the truncated icosahedron into a certain three-dimensional space more times than another tribe, is an important part of Electrum culture. We will ensure that we will send a tribe into this competition in order to boost the country's morale. We also understand that several of your creatures were due to retire. We will embed the team with some of our good friends from around the multiverse to help you out."

Selina was flabbergasted by the idea - of course, the greats like Derek Young said that the World Cup 80 campaign was going to be their last. "But why are you being so helpful?" She looked at the holographic screen intently as she waited for an answer.

"As we said, we want to gain the trust of your nation. Also, it is not every time increment where we get to play with a chaotic system in the third dimension. Those equations are too hard for us to solve. If you got that national tribe back together and competing in World Cup 85, we would be able to collect that data to solve a subset of those equations. It's much easier working with eleven equations rather than billions of equations. And, as we have learned in our travels across the many worlds of this multiverse, tribalism is an efficient tool of unity. With unity comes trust."

Selina laughed to herself -- wait until they hear about politics and tribalism! "When do you plan to introduce yourself to the nation? My guards are leakier than a sieve, and I bet that they would be going to the media and the Prime Minister right now."

"I think the nation's news service will be more concerned as to how they lost twenty years in comparison to the rest of the multiverse. We will discuss how we will introduce myself in due course. But first, your current title of Governor-General is too rigid and formal. We suggest High Human Representative instead. Your role will be to help us understand the sentient creatures that inhabit this three-dimensional area."

"Sounds like I have no choice, don't I?"

To be continued...

by **Talamia** » Fri May 22, 2020 7:13 am

"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages!
Here is Auxe Aggelia, your favourite sports expert! I am talking to you from Pirote City, capital of the Pirotian Republic, where the first edition of the NSLeft Association Football Tournament is taking place. As you already know, the Talamian National Football Team won its debut match 1-0 against Mon Silanies. Thanks to Ana Lambàn's goal, we are currently leading Group D. By the way, you are probably wondering where is Gian Gianvilipendio, my faithful friend and companion of adventures. After our victory, great celebrations followed on the streets of Chelsea, where the match took place. Gian exaggerated a bit and he is currently in the Pirote City hospital, following a second food poisoning, due to all the blue cheese from Mon Silanies he ate.

Yesterday, the 118th edition of the Talamian Alfa League finally came to an end, when Acroscope and NK Kornelius drew 1-1 in the second leg of the relegation play-off. Thank to the 2-1 first leg victory, Acroscope will remain in the Alfa League. But they will surely have to do better than last year, in order to hope to survive again

But let's move on to the news on the next World Cup!

The draws for the qualifying groups were held on 20 May. Talamia, unranked and in the last pot, was drawn in group 12, along with with other 12 national teams. Let's see them together:

Cosumar
Baggieland
Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom
Osarius
Starblaydia
Garifunya
95X
Havynwilde
Aldaveria
Jerauuk
Bongo Johnson
Geektopia

We also already have a calendar and our first opponents: on Saturday 23 May, the Talamian national team will make its official debut in a World Cup qualifying match, in an away match against Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom.

OUR OPPONENTS:

The Federal Republic of Zeta Reka & Hügeltaldom (Federativna Republika Zeta Reka i Hügeltaldom, or Bundesrepublik Zeta Reka und Hügeltaldom), known informally as Zeta Reka, is a federation located in the region of Esportiva. The country itself came into existence seventy nine years ago with the creation of the dual-monarchy. The monarchy was overthrown by the August Socialist Organization, who controlled the nation exclusively for decades. Sixty two years after the nation's formation, the federation's semi-presidential constitution came into effect.

The nature of organized sport has changed with the fall of the ASO. Private ownership of sports clubs has increased profits and wages, but mostly revenue. Integration into international football was backed by former president Iwan Maurer in his 100 Project, which aims to open up Zeta Reka by the nation's centennial. The government program is controversial for betraying Zeta Reka's traditions and for increasing the influence of outside forces. For some, the national team's second place finish in the Baptism of Fire is a unifying event. The current government hopes for qualification to the World Cup to further reduce tensions.

A young nation, with less history than Talamia, but certainly with more experience on the international football stages. 200th in the KPB ranking, runners-up in the last edition of the Baptism of Fire - the seventy-second - they are certainly not the best opponents to face for a debut. However, our coach Sanisla Pedalisismi is in a winning streak of 3-0-0, after the two victories over The Jovannic in friendlies and the one against Mon Silanies in the 2020 NAFT. The team is fired up and although they are facing multiple competitions at the same time, we know they will react well. A demanding trip, but a great emotion that we can't wait to feel.

Meanwhile, at the press conference, the starting line up was revealed:

Still injured, Fjössi Rooura will have to watch the game from the stands. In his place Ana Lambàn will start from the first minute, after the great performance against Mon Silanies. Two more changes compared to the last game: in attack, we will see Stern A'apt lined up, after the disappointing performance by Ptirn Enripto, while as a right back we await the return of Tjin Herev Eo, replaced by Katek in the last match.

On the bench were announced:
#12 Psal Arpaz
#23 Stizo Stiba Stroma
#18 Eletheu Atele
#21 Kof Vottetheis
#17 Mesacro Diodos
#11 Ptirn Enripto
#19 Neaniaõ

A FOCUS ON:

#9 Stern A'apt

Robust forward, skilled in the header and playing as a point of reference for the advanced midfield line, he is able to play shoulders behind the net to allow the wings to penetrate the opposing defense. Fifth in the all-time list, he scored two goals in the last friendly match against The Jovannic, reaching 29 goals in total.

Son of a poor family of workers from Stamexo, our favorite striker grew up right on the border with Sorsluth and took his first football steps in the hometown team. He made his debut in the Beta League at the age of 19 but we would have said everything at the time except that he would become the first choice for the National Team's attack in the starting lineup. Slightly overweight, he seemed to have only the commitment on his side. But it wasn't enough.

After two seasons in which he had collected more appearances in the stands than anything else, one day everything changed: it was 2013 and Stern had the opportunity to play in a championship game, due to the injury of the two main forwards. The team was doing badly, being close to the relegation zone. However, A'apt discovered how dangerous it could be on high balls. A hat trick. All goals on header. Stern became the hero of the day and the championship, dragging Stamexo to their first second place in the Beta League. The team then lost the playoffs but that was only the beginning for Stern. Purchased by Afestosja the following summer, he managed to drag an excellent team to an equally excellent second place in the Alfa League. Then came the first call-up to the national team, the first international goal. The teams were starting to get used to his way of playing, no longer the other way around.

Then, something changed last year, when A'apt, now a darling of Afestosja, decided to accept the large sum of money that the billionaire Amilla's team, KarpìStomà, offered to move to them. Some say that his poor young football-loving spirit has vanished forever. Yet the great commitment shown once again on the field led him to drag KarpìStomà to fourth place. Could this be an opportunity to show everyone once again that they are wrong?

Thanks for your attention, viewers friends! We look forward to see you on Saturday 23 May.
Watch the game with us, only here on Pro Diorux Sports - Are you a sports devote? Pick up your TV remote!

by **Cheergirls** » Fri May 22, 2020 7:23 am

Meghan Banks Today at 9:06am
Welcome to the official discord channel for our team!

Tori Allen Today at 9:07am
I hate discord. I never used it until now.

Meghan Banks Today at 9:07am
What’s wrong with discord?

Tori Allen Today at 9:08am
I just want to use Spacebook.

Baniella Batti Today at 9:08am
Wasssup???

Tori Allen Today at 9:09am
Why is your name weird?

Beghan Banks Today at 9:09am
You mean like this?

Tori Allen Today at 9:10am
This is why Spacebook chat is better. No one can change their names.

Murph Today at 9:11am
Hey there fellow cheergirls!

Beghan Banks Today at 9:11am
Jessie’s here! Jessie’s here!

Baniella Batti Today at 9:11am
Hello, Jess!

Beg In Banks Today at 9:12am
I like this name better!

Tori Allen Today at 9:12am
I like my normal name. And our group sucks. We might as well give up now.

Baniella Batti Today at 9:13am
Never ever give up. Where’s your spirit, Tori?!

Murph Today at 9:14am
Yeah so like the group is ridiculous.

Beg In Banks Today at 9:14am
We can win this group! The Holy Empire? Come on, people are sick of them winning!

Katie Golden Today at 9:15am
I don’t think I want to be the goalkeeper anymore.

Beg In Banks Today at 9:16am
You picked that number out of the hat, so its all yours. Don’t worry you can beat The Holy Empire we have faith in you!

Baniella Batti Today at 9:16am
Keep that spirit up! We will win the group because we are the best!

Murph Today at 9:17am
Be realistic, please. We don’t have to be such cheerleaders about everything.

Tori Allen Today at 9:18am
There is no way a team like us can have success in this group. Be real.

Beg In Banks Today at 9:19am
Let’s have spirit! Spirit!!

Katie Golden Today at 9:20am
We won’t even beat Indusse.

Baniella Batti Today at 9:20am
We will slaughter Indusse!

Beg In Banks Today at 9:21am
We can win our first game. Vlasisitan. Come on now its an easy game that gets us ready to beat The Holy Empire and Ko-oren.

Tori Allen Today at 9:22am
One game at a time, I agree but let’s be real with our expectations.

Baniella Batti Today at 9:22am
Hey did you see there is a team copying us? Like what we used to do?

Beg In Banks Today at 9:23am
Copying us?

Baniella Batti Today at 9:24am
Yeah like this team called Drunk People At The Local Tavern has people playing in the backyard. We began that concept!

Tori Allen Today at 9:24am
We are pioneers! Best news I have heard in here over the last eighteen minutes.

Katie Golden Today at 9:25am
That is cool! People imitating us and all. But glad we have upgraded this year and it is great that the cool lets us use the field.

Meghan Banks Today at 9:25am
I wish we could play them.

Murph Today at 9:26am
Yeah like maybe we could all have drinks there afterwards.

Baniella Batti Today at 9:27am
Tori and I are the only ones on the team old enough to drink so you need to remember to be responsible and smart. Which is to make sure that we buy all the alcohol for you.

Tori Allen Today at 9:27am
That fact should make us be moderators in this channel. Right Daniella, I mean Baniella?

Baniella Batti Today at 9:28am
Hell yes!

Meghan Banks Today at 9:28am
Fair point.

Tori the Alcohol Provider Today at 9:29am
Perfect!

Murph Today at 9:29am
Can’t argue with that.

Katie Golden Today at 9:30am
Being the goalkeeper should make me a mod by default.

Meghan Banks Today at 9:31am
Not yet. Alcohol providers are the most important! And Tori changed her name. Can’t do that on Spacebook!

Tori the Alcohol Provider Today at 9:31am
Yeah well, I can get used to it.

by **Kohnhead** » Fri May 22, 2020 7:24 am

Kohnhead Prepares for the World Cup Qualifying

The plane ride home from the Baptism of Fire was a joyous ride for Kohnhead. Yes they had lost in the round of 16 in extra time, and yes they were in pot 9 with little hope of actually qualifying for the World Cup, but every player realized this was the start. They just wanted to see if Kohnhead could compete on an international stage and boy they can. Now there's no way Kohnhead can compete with the titans of the sport just yet. This team they know it are the pioneers for Kohnhead. They hope that in the future Kohnhead will have a chance at qualifying and later on maybe winning.

Coach Kohnhead faced his players who had given it all and said "There's a reason we managed to come in the top 16. We worked our butts off and we played well. Yes we lost and so what, I thought we were the better team in that game. No one believes that we can qualify for the World Cup and maybe we can't, being the first ever team Kohnhead has sent. But even if we can't qualify that won't stop us from trying." The team cheered after this speech and then continued to enjoy the plane ride home knowing they had to work harder before qualifying.

Pundits said that they didn't see this team advancing past the group stage of the Baptism of Fire. Kohnhead started out on Fire winning their first three games, but the streak didn't last with a loss versus Tequilo. They then lost to South Newlandia, before winning their last group game to advance as the second best in their group. A penalty shootout win versus Maccian led to a sad round of 16 loss to The Grearish Union.

The training as Coach Kohnhead had said really picked up as Kohnhead prepared for the World Cup qualifiers. With so many teams signing up it's always difficult to make it especially with Kohnhead now ranked 243rd in the World. The captain Aaron Korkson had this to say about training "Coach is working us hard but that's what we expected. We all saw this coming being the best players in our country and about to face off against the best competition in the World. It's the hardest any of us have worked yet we expect ourselves to work harder than that day in day out."

Jackson Newcastle said "It's an honor to be forced to train this hard. It shows that Coach expects a lot from us and we expect a lot from ourselves. Truthfully this may be my only chance to play against these great teams being 34 years old. I hope to make the best of it."

Erin Maltos claimed "We are training harder than before and everyone on the team knew what they were getting into when they joined, and the ones who are on the team we can count on us all to work hard. Yet at the same time we can have fun during practice and training with Coach and that's one thing I really like about this team."

Personally I don't have this team getting into the World Cup having been drawn into Group 2. Considering the fact that you play 24 games over qualifying it is apparent that the best teams due in fact make it to the World Cup, and I am sorry to say that Kohnhead most likely won't be one of those teams.

by **Alasdair I Frosticus** » Fri May 22, 2020 8:39 am

Press Conference
Ban Cocoa-bo!!!!

Hello.

My name is Sir Barsanuphius the Bold, and I'm the captain of the Holy Empire football team.

But today I'm here to urge young people across the multiverse to 'Just Say No to Cocoa-Bo'.

This dangerously addictive performance-enhancing substance is the real reason behind Vilita's recent rise to World Cup dominance, and has ruined the lives of many young people who've become addicted to its seductive flavour. First you accept a sip from your friend, and before you know it, you live only to consume Cocoa-Bo.

Here I'd like to read out my press release from the closing days of the last World Cup:

Press Release:

For Immediate Distribution

The Holy Empire Football Association today announced that it would spend World Cup 85 campaigning for the banning of Cocoa-bo as an addictive and performance-enhancing substance.

The campaign will be led by the Holy Empire's World Cup 84 captain Sir Barsanuphius.

"Cocoa-bo is a dangerous substance" said the God-fearing footballing cataphract knight. "In addition to being the only possible explanation for Vilita's recent World Cup success, its addictive properties have wreaked havoc with the lives of cute little murderous bunny rabbits, and have caused the most chaste of my knights to spank groups of nubile teenage girls.

It has been plain for some time that the Vilitan drug distribution networks have taken insidious control of Vilitan media, sporting, and governmental institutions, with other nations and teams often ranked by the extent to which Cocoa-bo consumption has taken root in other countries. We assume that the version of the drug distributed internationally lacks the performance-enhancing properties of the version consumed by Vilita's national football team, but ask that the World Cup Committee launch an immediate investigation of the chemical content of Cocoa-bo both within and without Vilita.

This is my new crusade. I shall not rest through World Cup 85 until my prejudices are confirmed, regardless of the actual evidence, and this dangerous substance is banned across the multiverse"

The Holy Empire Football Association is actively looking for a name for this campaign, preferably one with an easy to pronounce acronym, and welcomes suggestions sent by the mundy method of 'telegramme'.

Other national football associations are also welcome to join the campaign. Again, telegramme is the best method of signalling an intent to participate.

Already the fine nations of Reçueçn, Zwangzug, and Northwest Kalactin have expressed an interest in joining our crusade, and we urge all other nations to join together to force the World Cup Committee to ban Cocoa-Bo.

Excellent suggestions on what to name the crusade have already been made by concerned citizens in Reçueçn and Zwangzug.

The Reçueçn suggestion - made by no less a figure than Franky Adams, top scorer for Reçueçn's national football team - is 'Crusade in Opposition to Cocoa-bo Organized to Achieve a Ban on Ability-enhancing Drugs', or COCOABAD.

The Zwangzug suggestion is 'Crusaders' Coalition Contra Cocoa-bo' or C4.

But I welcome further suggestions from the other nations of the multiverse - please send one of these 'telegramme' thingies to the Holy Empire via usual channels. Likewise if you want to join this crusade - new member nations are warmly welcome.

I'm now prepared to take questions from the assembled members of the Fourth Estate. Yes, you there young woman....

Anna Comneno, Holy Empire Herald; I'm a little confused here. You seem to be saying that this Cocoa-bo is a performance enhancing substance for Vilita... but isn't it made and marketed in Turori?

Thank you Miss Comneno. It's simple, really. These two nations are so closely associated that they often field joint sports teams in international competition; I think you'll find that the historical and modern political links between the two countries are equally strong. It's hardly a surprise that the Vilitan authorities have sought to disguise the insidious extent of their narcostate's policies by hiding the production and distribution of Cocoa-bo behind a thin veneer of deniability by farming it off to their complicit puppets in Turori. Next...

Thamior Farahani, Kelssek. I'm as confused as my colleague Anna here. How can Cocoa-Bo be both a performance-enhancing substance for Vilita, but a dangerously addictive life-ruining drug for everyone else?

Thank you. This is even simpler. Presumably whatever advanced gene therapy is used to make Cocoa-bo a performance-enhancing substance for Vilitans is absent in the version sold in other nations of the multiverse. As to whether Cocoa-Bo is both performance-enhancing and addictive to Vilitans... well, our crack investigators are looking at this important point this very minute. Stay tuned during World Cup 85 for some no-doubt startling revelations on this point. Next!

Tigran Lagrange, Audioslavian Music Review. The drink in question advertises a lot in my publication, and I think the key question of the day is whether or not you capitalise the 'b' in 'bo'? Is it 'Cocoa-bo' or 'Cocoa-Bo'?

Regardless of how you spell it, my music-loving Audioslavian friend, it'll still ruin your life; I urge you to stop accepting drug money immediately. We have time for one more question.... You there.

Katie Hamilton, Hazel City High School News. Everyone in the Cheergirls national squad just loves Cocoa-bo; it helps keep them all so perky. So my question to you is... do you wear a tin-foil hat?

I'm sorry, Miss Hamilton, but I don't understand the question...

Do you wear a tin-foil hat?

I wear magnificent armour, so there's undoubtedly metal on my head during a match; but it's not made of tin-foil, no. That's all we have time for today. Any nations wishing to join my crusade or come up with a suggestion on the name for the crusade - one of those telegramme thingies, please!

by **Squornshelan Remnant States** » Fri May 22, 2020 9:10 am

Qualifying Preview: Group 2

It's that time again, time to look ahead at how your Black-and-Reds might find a way to finally fight their way into a World Cup, and how they might not. This cycle we've been drawn into Group 2, with one or two familiar names, but mostly new faces. Nope, no Qasden this time folks, we're done beating our heads against that particular brick wall. We've got all new stumbling blocks for you this time around, let's get to it:

Group 2
Kita-Hinode
Drawkland
Squornshelan Remnant States
Busoga Islands
Lochario
Gyatso-kai
Wreckeria
Torisakia
Kohnhead
EGM
Donnacona
Balaslandia
Jantor

Kita-Hinode (10) (WC84 - Eliminated in Quarterfinal) - Not a team the Black-and-Reds are particularly familiar with. Some will count us luck that we avoided drawing with teams like Vilita or Eura here, but there really are no weak teams in Pot 1. The Poltergheists have seen their star rise over the last few cycles. After missing out on qualification for World Cup 82 by a single point, they returned in World Cup 83, winning Group F before losing to eventual runners-up Starblaydia in the second round. In their most recent effort, they managed a close victory over Turori to advance to the quarterfinals where they were felled by Farfadillis (who of course went on to host the trophy). A picture emerges of a steadily improving team, whose most recent eliminations have come at the hands of teams that made the final match; no shame there.

Drawkland (32) (WC84 - 1st Round, 4th in Group E) - Drawkland are, on paper at least, one of the weaker sides in Pot 2, and sports media across the multiverse are sure to be pontificating madly about the opportunity this presents for the Confederacy to earn our first qualification. The fact that the Black-and-Reds defeated the Kick Corps in the third place match of the Eighth Independent Associations Championship will only add more fuel to that particular fire. Unfortunately, that victory now represents something of a peak in our nation's brief modern football history, as things have trended distinctly downward since then, with the team getting off to a truly miserable start that cost them any shot at qualification for World Cup 84, and failing to advance from the group stage at both Cup of Harmony 76 and IAC 9. Drawkland, meanwhile, qualified for World Cup 84 (though their performance in Baker Park was undistinguished to put it mildly) and made the second round at the Independents' Cup. If the Black-and-Reds were to find a way to finish ahead of the Kick Corps, it would represent a significant reversal of recent fortunes for both teams.

Busoga Islands (54) (WC84 - 4th in Qualifying Group 7) - Now this is an interesting draw. Much as Confederate fans are hungrily eying Drawkland, Busoga Islanders will be hoping their team can take full advantage of the Black-and-Reds' run of bad form to sneak up a spot in the final standings. Not least because their side is led, of course, by former Black-and-Reds manager Bethany Donnell. The debate of last cycle is sure to rage all over again. Did the SCFA make the right decision in sacking her after just six matches of qualifying? Will the continuing search for a long-term replacement be resolved any time soon? Adding to that particular drama is the fact that the woman currently at the helm for the SRS is one of those who made the decision to sack Donnell. Interim manager (can we still call her that when she's been in charge almost two years?) Kornelie Tamela was a member of the SCFA board during that , and presumably will be again after she relinquishes the manager's chair. The media hoopla that will surely surround our matches with them could serve as a distraction, and the players' ability to tune it all out and focus on the task at hand will be vitally important for both teams.

Lochario (74) (WC84 - 6th in Qualifying Group 5) - Lochario are not a team we know particularly well. Over their history, they've usually been a reliably middle-of-the-pack team in qualifying, finishing somewhere around the middle of their group, but not presenting a real threat to the top teams. This trend was borne out last cycle as they finished precisely in the middle of Group 5 with an even win-loss record and a nearly even goal differential. Their finish would have been one spot better, but for an upset loss to the Imperium on the final matchday, a result we can certainly sympathize with.

Gyatso-kai (115) (WC84 - 7th in Qualifying Group 12) - A very popular team in the Confederacy of late, Gyatso-kai also had a fairly recent run-in with the Imperium. Though doomed to elimination themselves, the Bisons managed a victory over Squornshelous in the final match of Cup of Harmony 76 to prevent the Imperium from advancing. The celebration that ensued may have been tempered by the miserable performance our own team had put on in that tournament, but it was heartfelt nonetheless. Gyatso-kai are a team recently returned to the World Stage, attempting to recapture their form that saw them qualify for five consecutive World Cups, with the highlight being a quarterfinal appearance back in the 61st edition. Their moderately defensive 4-3-3 could be a challenge for some teams to break down, as they can boast a good mixture of youth and experience in their back line.

Wreckeria (127) (WC84 - 6th in Qualifying Group 10) - Another team which returned last cycle after many years away from international football, Wreckeria is a nation with as fraught a history as our own. The self-proclaimed Reformed Republic must be given some credit though, for appearing to have learned the lessons of its violent past, though some injured parties have seemed disinclined toward forgiveness, something many Confederates can probably understand. It will be an interesting two matches, and fan interaction between Wreckerians and Confederates may prove a test case for whether any semblance of normality could occur should the Confederacy ever be drawn together with the Imperium. The Bulldogs' neutral 3-4-3 formation is an unusual one, and could present some problems in the middle, but if Confederate wingers can get behind the Wreckerian midfield, Harold Leslie could really be put to the test.

Torisakia (193) (WC84 - N/A, WC83 - 5th in Qualifying Group M) - After missing out on last cycle's edition, Torisakia return to the World Cup. Like many of the nations from this point onward, they aren't one that will be particularly familiar to most Confederates. Brantisvogan supporters will likely be the most familiar, with Torisakian center back Jordan Ginnias joining the Red Flash in the recent transfer window, while others will be aware that Redri Mostert and Tolsimir Riszner headed in the other direction, joining Torisakian clubs Ogino AC and Beachport FC respectively. The Ice Birds will line up in what at first looks like a bog-standard 4-4-2, but closer inspection will reveal that it is a more attacking formation than it appears, based on personnel. Natural forwards Sweetcloud and Franklyn will line up in midfield, meaning this formation could fairly quickly transition to something like a 4-2-4 when needed. They'll likely be quite dangerous on the counter, and defensive positioning and anticipation will be important.

Kohnhead (243) (BoF72 - Eliminated in Round of 16) - Kohnhead proved themselves a capable side, starting their Baptism of Fire run with a three-match winning streak before being knocked out in extra time by the Grearish Union. Having needed extra time and a penalty shootout to advance past the Maccian in the previous round, fatigue was likely a factor in that loss, and the Brains should be considered one of the better sides to be eliminated at that stage. Their play in the BoF was moderately attacking, and the fact that three members of their attack are club teammates at Kohnhead City will definitely work in their favor, given how important team play and chemistry usually prove to be for upset-minded teams. It's always difficult for new sides to establish themselves against the experience of those with one or more qualifying campaigns already under their belt, but look for Kohnhead to notch at least one upset victory in the coming weeks. Hopefully not against us.

EGM (271) (BoF72 - Eliminated in Round of 32) - EGM needed a matchday 7 victory to snatch advancement away from Sanctanus, testament to some troubles in the second half of the BoF group stage, but the fact that they got that victory speaks volumes about the determination this team have. While they were subsequently eliminated by Riena, perhaps a bit drained after the emotional high of clinching advancement, and Riena did eventually finish as the fourth-best team of the tournament, so its hard to criticize EGM for losing to them, especially since they pushed the Tranquil Islanders into extra time. The EGManian team, composed in part of amateur players showed a tremendous amount of heart in their play, something they'll need for the long, 24-match qualifying tournament to come.

Donnacona (325) (Bof72 - 5th in Group E) - Some Molvnian fans will recognize Donnaconan goalkeeper Jure Filipovic as former Lublova winger Jzeovak Vladcik's new teammate at Admiral of the SFS, but the familiarity ends there for most. While we have no particular history with the People's Republic or its various successor states, we do have in common a diverse national identity, composed of various formerly independent regions, and a variety of ethnicites. Our populations have a great deal in common, though whether that will lead to more cordial, or more antagonistic fan interaction is anyone's guess. Les Bernaches (or Bernaches-sur-Pommes as my francophone partner insists I call them) were unfortunate to miss out on advancement in the Baptism of Fire, surpassed by When U Die while idle on the final matchday. They'll be a team with a chip on their shoulder as a result, and all too aware of what can happen during a bye week, of which there are two in the slate of matches, if you leave too many points on the table.

Balaslandia (342) (BoF72 - 7th in Group B) - Very little is known about this nation, aside from a list of players and a lineup their national football association has published. There have been some undisclosed difficulties with naming a roster, as at least one position had to be filled on short notice, and another player will be unavailable for the team's first match. With these issues in mind, coupled with their very poor performance at the BoF, it seems unlikely that Balaslandia will make much of a splash during qualifying.

Jantor (UR) (No Previous International) - Nothing at all known about this side. We've never seen them play, and don't even know yet who they're sending. They could easily turn out to be the Group 2 punching bag, or pull of a Sarzonia or Bears Armed type performance, and surprise everyone. Only time will tell, but my money's on punching bag.

SRS Qualifying Schedule

MD1:  SRS v Torisakia @ Pheldagrif Stadium, Yassaca, Sivolvia, SRS (cap 45,620)
MD2:  Balaslandia v SRS @ TBA
MD3:  SRS v Wreckeria @ Sunergy Field, Hunian, Algolia, SRS (cap 37,550)
MD4:  Busgoa Islands v SRS @ TBA
MD5:  Bye
MD6:  SRS v Drawkland @ Megabrantid Financial Field, Brantisvogan, Megabrantis, SRS (cap. 69,245)
MD7:  Jantor v SRS @ TBA
MD8:  SRS v Gyatso-kai  @ Slavnarzeczpospolitastadion, Lublova, Molvania, SRS (cap. 61,230)
MD9:  Donnacona v SRS @ TBA
MD10: SRS v Kita-Hinode @ Bridger Lane, Damogran, Algolia, SRS (cap. 72,406)
MD11: Kohnhead v SRS @ Orange Bull Stadium, Kohnhead City, KHN (cap. 23,000)
MD12: SRS v EGM @ Igbar Steel Arena, Zarss, West Flania, SRS (cap. 15,100)
MD13: Lochario v SRS @ Zun Olympic Stadium, (cap. 98,000)
MD14: Torisakia v SRS  @ TBA
MD15: SRS v Balaslandia @ Killough Grove, Han Wavel, Han Dold, SRS (cap. 31,400)
MD16: Wreckeria v SRS @ Patrick Stadium, Halstead, WRE (cap. 30,000)
MD17: SRS v Busoga Islands @ The Lutenstaad, Lutenblag, Molvania, SRS (cap. 75,000)
MD18: Bye
MD19: Drawkland v SRS @ Spartan Veteran Stadium (107,500)
MD20: SRS v Jantor @ Malgacorp Arena, Hensha, Megabrantis, SRS (cap. 29,350)
MD21: Gyatso-kai v SRS @ Meshgeroya'yaim, Keldabe, GKI (cap. 79,890)
MD22: SRS v Donnacona @ Smolak Systemy Stadion, Sjerezo, Molvania, SRS (cap. 31,200)
MD23: Kita-Hinode v SRS @ Tentai City, Tentai, HIN (cap. 80,000)
MD24: SRS v Kohnhead @ Olympiastad, Arkintoofle, Megabrantis, SRS (cap. 47,550)
MD25: EGM v SRS @ TBA
MD26: SRS v Lochario @ Castle Street, Jaglan, Algolia, SRS (cap. 57,300)

by **Mercedini** » Fri May 22, 2020 9:43 am

85th World Cup Qualification Group Draw & MD1 Preview
Mercedini vs. Banija
@ Zoloroni Sports City Stadium - Zoloroni, Mercedini

Good morning ladies and gentleman, welcome back to The City of a Million Dreams and the cathedral of Mercedinian sport, the Sports City Stadium. Over the next four weeks or so, hopes will be raised and hopes will be dashed as another World Cup approaches. In total, teams will play a whopping twenty-four matches in places far and wide, before we find the thirty-two nations who will stamp their ticket to the 85th World Cup, this time held in Farfadillis and Mriin.

Last time round, Mercedini failed to qualify from their group, finishing in third place and being relegated to the Cup of Harmony, where they aimed to win the trophy for a second time. Alas, a shock semi-final defeat to Terre Septentrionale put pay to the Golden Eagles' expectations, with the team recording a second successive loss in the third place play-off, and finishing fourth in a tournament where they went in as second favourites. This time round, Lyndainium has opted for some fresh faces in the Mercedinian camp, as he thinks about the long term viability of the national team. Pressure is mounting of the Cenian manager, failure to qualify could spell the end of the road for the Lyndainium era. The pots have been decided, the groups have been drawn. So let's see how Mercedini shape up in an ever-unpredictable World Cup Qualification stage:

World Cup Qualification: The Good, The Bad, and the Dangerous Newcomers

PREVIEW
WCQ | MD1
MERCEDINI
BANIJA
Zoloroni, Mercedini
No Spectators

On any other day, the Sports City Stadium would be bouncing with the spectacle of the opening match day, or the spectacle of facing a Pot 1 side, or the spectacle of facing a side which shocked the Golden Eagles in a World Cup play-off. But alas, there will be no spectacle within the stadium as these two teams face off on match day one. That isn't to say that there isn't a lot riding on the game in Zoloroni, as it could define the entire first half if someone is to come away with a decisive victory. The Mercedinian side which lost 3-0 in Quebec, but won the return leg in Zoloroni 3-2 looks mostly different now, and it will be a major test for many of these young players for their first time outing.

The host of the previous edition's World Cup, Banija have shot up the world rankings to announce themselves as a major power on the world stage. Mercedini have always seen themselves as a major disruptor of the natural order when it comes to the main footballing regions, but Banija have claimed quite a number of their own scalps on their meteoric rise. Now the two teams will face off for the third time in the World Cup ecosphere, with a repeat of the play-off second leg in Zoloroni the hoped result from MD1. With no supporters present to back them, and an atmosphere similar to that of a kick-about at the park. It will be interesting to see how these teams react when they play a game of such magnitude, in a setting like the one in Mercedini's capital in a couple of days time. With thirteen nations contesting the group, and twenty-four matches scheduled in each team's calendar, the ramifications could be felt long after the final whistle is blown in Mercedini.

Following that, the new disruptor which has taken the World Cup scene by storm, Hapilopper. Ten matches undefeated in on the way to their Baptism of Fire triumph, a Pot 3 side within their first three editions as a football-playing nation, and now in with a real chance of causing an upset to qualify for the 85th World Cup. The last thing that a tired Mercedinian side would want after playing against a Top 5-ranked nation, is to play against the dangerous newcomers and a future force of the group. Realistically, The Thrashers will be The Golden Eagles' biggest threat to their World Cup chances, as Hapilopper have taken on nations far and wide and come out of the other side more times than not. Not much is known about Hapilopper, with only a couple of editions under their belt and now competitive history between the two nations. Lyndainium will be wary about the chances of the team in blue, green and white, with a crowded stadium behind them plus the unpredictability of an artificial turf, dropped points are a real possibility. Dropped points in their opening two games could prove fatal to the team, especially if Banija and Hapilopper continue that momentum against their lesser ranked counterparts in the group. A win in either of their games would be ideal, a win in both would be the dream.

Large group sizes always throws up major possibility of a shock or two being recorded, and with a whopping thirteen teams in the mixer, it's almost invitable. Looking through the rest of the group, some familiar faces can be picked out from the seemingly endless list of names. Lisander and Mercedini will face off for a third time in World Cup Qualification, and the Golden Eagles have always done well against them when put together, a 7-1 victory does spring to mind in one of the more remarkable results. Lisander does hold firm when they are on form, and can certainly take a point or two away if the settings are right, and they are certainly right for an upset with no backing at home for Dini. Furthermore, West Angola, Hampton Island and Balqia all have track records in World Cup Qualification, albeit the records aren't particularly stellar or jaw-dropping. As stated before, freak results fly up and and again, and it is almost certain that any of the other ten teams in the running will punch above their weight, especially at the start. Odds are extremely high for every team outside of Pots 1-3, but a good run of form could mean any of these lower-ranked teams could find themselves in a qualifying spot, or be in the picture.

The fact remains that Mercedini have their biggest two games and their break within their opening five match days, so it is likely that Dini will be playing catch-up with the rest of the group with their game in hand slowly being eroded as every other team have their bye-day break. Who will be left standing come the end of qualification is something only time can tell, predictions have been quick to present themselves, but with three solid teams and only the top two going through, someone will be left out in the cold, likely left to fight for scraps in the Cup of Harmony. The stage is set for all teams to contribute to another festival of football, Mercedini have been there before, although they will be in the fight of the lives to secure Finals football for another edition.

That's all from us here in Zoloroni, the Banijan team are set to arrive in the coming days for their crunch-time game opener. We hope you will be able to join us as we bring you live coverage of every Mercedinian game, home or away, near or far. Everything will be crossed for the Golden Eagles, they will have to leave it all on the turf to get a result out of Banija. Andiamo!

by **Banija** » Fri May 22, 2020 10:38 am

World Cup 85 Qualifying- A Preview for the Kadongo Kamu

Banijan players congratulating each other following their lone pre-Qualifying friendly, a 4-3 win over Taeshan

BUSUKUMA, NATIONAL CAPITOL REGION- World Cup 85 Qualifying is upon us! The Kadongo Kamu are currently flying high, despite an early exit in the Round of 16 at the hands of Siovanija & Teusland, in the Diamond anniversary of the AOCAFs. The Banijans followed that up with an entry in the Eagle's Cup, earned many years ago before World Cup 79 Qualifying, when Randolf Cherry was in his first game as manager, and we won a Future's match 1-0 AET. Of course, we finally cashed in on that all these years later, and the players took full advantage of it, earning the side's first ever trophy at the senior-level with a 4-2 victory AET against Farfadillis in the Eagle's Cup Final. That, of course, made us full members of the Eagle's Club. And then, in a celebration friendly at the Stadium of the Restoration against Taeshan, we won 4-3.

Now, we're going to dedicate this edition to previewing World Cup 85 Qualifying! If you flip throughout this edition of the magazine, you'll see all sorts of things. Brief things about each group, analyzing each of Banija's 12 opponents, etc... Here, in the front section, we'll go through three different things. One, the squad- Marcus Waters, for the first time, has opted for an extended player pool, rather than simply 23. Secondly, the RBSA has announced the home venues for Banija's 12 home qualifiers- we'll talk about that as well. ANd lastly,

Squad

Now, before we break down the position groups, there is something to say here. Waters usually picks a Final 23 before Qualifying, and rides it all the way through the Finals. But not this time. "The talent base in Banija has really grown since I started here all those years ago." Marcus Waters told the media. "There are number of players that aren't quite in the 23, but deserve the chance to showcase their talents, to make a case for a birth in the Finals. This is a good problem to have- it shows the development of this country as a footballing nation."

He said that he'd be setting his lineup for four matchdays at a time, and then changing it. So Matchday 5, Matchday 9, Matchday 14, Matchday 18, and Matchday 22 are when he'd make significant changes to the 23, swapping players in and out of the player pool. So youth world champions like Momodou Sene, Cyper Corr, and Abigail Admassu, to name a few, will get a chance to play for the senior side at some point.

Defense & Goalkeepers

The biggest question mark for this team, is goalkeeper. Once The Busoga Islands became independent and Delbin Kasekende, the team's goalkeeper throughout the World Cup 79 and World Cup 80 cycles, decided to play for Busoga, two men have dominated the position- Lemuel Bereket and Jumu Sanneh. Third string goalkeepers have come and gone, but it's always been about these two. Lemuel Bereket beat out Sanneh, and was the primary starter for four cycles. He retired from international duty at the end of World Cup 84, and is extending his club career in Farfadillis.

That put Jumu Sanneh, 35 years old, in line to start. But after struggles in the AOCAFs and the Eagle's Cup, he was benched at halftime of the Eagle's Cup final. That was all anyone needed- there is an official goalkeeper competition. Marcus Waters said as much. "Sanneh is a strong goalkeeper, that's why he's spent his whole career as part of this setup. But the players behind him too are strong, and they will get a chance to play." One is Francois Tantoh. He's been playing goalkeeper for the BSL's best side, Herzegovina City, for a couple of years now. The other is Wanda Kouyaté. She was goalkeeper as the U21s won their World Cup. Both will get chances to start- but can they push Sanneh?

The actual defense as a whole isn't a huge question mark. Kuma Bultum, of course, is a full-fledged Galactico, and anchors the back line. Iruka and Abdi as the outside backs are pretty much set in stone. The only question mark is Kawsu Kaba. He's an excellent center back, but one of those players who is always better for his club than he is for his country. Demba Kinteh plays in Schottia, and he is an excellent player for Port Sebastian. He's also a youth World Cup winner, having won a U18 World Cup. This may be the tournament where he gives a serious push to Kawsu Kaba for his spot in the starting lineup.

Midfielders

Probably the place on the squad with the most competition. Now, of course, we have Mzukisi Nzo, who was destined for stardom at Hoima, and has blossomed into one for Yaton FC in Taeshan. His value leaving Banija was in the 8 figures, which shows how much players wanted him. It's the spot next to him that's the question mark. Currently, it's Amadi Uche- a central midfielder who, like Kawsu Kaba, is one of those guys who plays so well at the club level, but is inconsistent for his country. He actually lost his spot on the national team entirely for the World Cup 84 cycle, before he forced his way back into not only the 23, but the starting XI with a stellar season in Valanora. It's all there physically- the mental game is his challenge.

Of course, his second stint with the NT seems to be going much better than the first. But plenty of players want his spot. He had displaced Kizza Okafor out of the starting XI, and Okafor certainly wants back in. Ablie Kah is there as well, but there's no guarantees Kah even makes the Final 23 for the Finals. There are four true central midfielders in the Extended Player Pool- Cyper Corr, Immaculate Kaba, Musa Gaye, and Kiggwe Basamula, who, like Uche, had lost his spot entirely on the national team last season before working his way back in. Not all will fly to Farfadillis or Mriin(assuming we get there). Can one of these four players force their way into the Final 23?

And then, for central attacking midfielder. Namakula Kawesa has a firm grip on this role. She is a great skilled player, and with the OCB suddenly declaring women's football a priority for the upcoming Olympics, Namakula Kawesa is the obvious choice to captain that squad. Of course, it's unclear why they've made it a priority- but the distinct lack of summer Olympic medals for a nation as sporting crazed as this one has long been seen as an embarrassment for the OCB. While Enyinnaya Jideofor is a strong player to back up at attacking midfielder, he'll have his work cut out staving off Abigail Admassu and Momodou Sene, both U21 world champions. Can the latter two work their way into the 23?

Attackers

For a team that has so much depth at a lot of positions, they're surprisingly thin at #9. OF course, there are strong ones, but there are no #9s in the extended player pool. Just the same three- Ilman Jawara clearly #1, Idai Uster clearly #2, and Kabir Jobateh clearly #3. Banija's always been top heavy- we don't have the depth of player pool that someone like Nephara, or Valanora, or Equestria has. But yea. The depth here is at the wing positions. Of course, you have Gitonga Kahara. The boy wonder. The captain. He may be losing a step slightly as he ages, but he's got too much institutional gravitas to ever lose his starting position.

Opposite him, you have Nwabudike Ugonna. And you have probably the most competitive positional battle on the squad- Ugonna v. Okparra. Maybe, in a different sort of world, one would have Okparra opposite Ugonna, and Kahara as some sort of a super sub? But that's not the world we live in. Kahara is the captain, the lead, the fan favorite, the longest tenured player. Ugonna is truly blossoming into stardom in Siovanija & Teusland. But then again, so is Madu Okparra in Valanora. Ugonna has held onto the starting spot for now, but the gap between the two truly is closing. Behind those three, you have Samba Ogunsola, who is on the squad, Anwar Dawit, and Alanso Tamba. Now, of course, at his age, he seems unlikely to bust into the squad after having already lost his spot in it. Samba Ogunsola has lots of promise, but has work to do if he wants to catch up to the three ahead of him. Anwar Dawit captained the U21s to their DBC 47 Title, but many think he needs some time before he's truly ready to play with the big boys.

Banijan Venues

And now, for Banija's venues for World Cup 85 Qualifying! With 12 home games, the RBSA was able to spread out the wealth. It went very well- there will be at least one home game in each region, including two at the Stadium of the Restoration. The RBSA"s philosophy has always been this- load up on home Qualifiers at the Stadium of the Restoration in one cycle, spread out the wealth the next. Gotta find the balance to always increase and enhance the stadium's mythical status as the country's national stadium. Now, they played their lone friendly here- only scheduling one friendly due to the increased matched load from the Eagle's Cup.

It's interesting to look at what was, and what wasn't, chosen. Of course, trips to both Istria and Herzegovina City. The final home qualifier will be at Tiones Lumber Field at the Wolf's Den in Busembe. The opening home qualifier will be at Electra Stadium in Mercedini. Those aren't surprises. There are some surprises, however. They'll play in Rukunbi, playing at Eastern Stadium, one of Banija's older stadiums- although Rukunbi FC fans are notorious for their rowdyness. They won't play at the Hangaza Unified Stadium in Aissa, not going out east. They also made one choice that nobody saw coming- Crystal Road, in Suwawa.

When RBSA Chairman Robel Ezera was asked about it, he had this to say. "The benefit of this Qualifying format is that we had so many home games to distribute. Many wanted a home game, and we wanted, for one, to try something different. Using a small, intimate venue in a small town. A reward for Suwawa earning promotion to the Banijan Soccer League, getting to see the national team. Crystal Road only seats just over 11,000, but the venue will absolutely be ready." When asked whether they'd increase the traditional away ticket allocation of 5% of venue capacity, because of the stadium's size, Ezera said 'absolutely not'. He emphasized that the idea was a way to ensure that the squad continues to connect with and appeal to Banijans all across the country, from the suburbs to the city to even the villages.

Matchday 1- Mercedini

And now, our Matchday 1 opponent- Mercedini. Playing away to the Pot 2 side on Matchday 1 is not the ideal way to open up a World Cup Qualifying campaign, but we don't make the schedule- we play the schedule they give us. Let's rewind back to the last time we played in Mercedini. The greatest loss in Banijan history. Set the scene, if you're too wrong to remember. World Cup 80, we had never qualified for the World Cup before. After struggling in the first half of Qualifying, Marcus Waters becomes the manager, and we finish 7-0-2(W-L-D), including a 1-0 win over Turori, to get in the Qualification playoffs. Our opponent? Mercedini.

Set the scene even more. The backdrop of our World Cup 80 Qualification is the Banijan-Equestrian War. Things are going poorly on the home front. Banijan bases getting pounded by the Equestrian military. The Equestrian military routing the Banijan one in the Busoga Islands. Home games moved outside of Banija because of the war, to the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. We won the first leg in Quebec, by a score of 3-0, stunning the higher seeded Mercedini squad. Having to hold that in Mercedini in the second leg. Us falling 2-0 down by halftime. Gitonga Kahara, then the symbol of the future, off due to injury. Then, a goal from Toyuwa Okafor(remember him?) to give us a crucially important goal, ensure that Mercedini would need 3 in the final half hour to drop us, rather than just one. And then, Chibuzo Afolayan, the team's first true superstar, putting the tie beyond doubt. Mercedini ended up winning on the day, 3-2.

Of course, we only have two men remaining from one of the Kadongo Kamu's greatest days- Gitonga Kahara, and the manager Marcus Waters. Gitonga Kahara spoke about how he remembered it his trip to Mercedini. "Man, that was one of the greatest days of my life." He told reporters. "I remember it clearly. You know, I wanted to soldier on that day, but I was in so much pain, that I couldn't. You know, think of how far we've come as a country since then- both in football and in general. It brings tears to my eyes to think about it, even now. Amazing memories of Zoloroni."

Marcus Waters spoke about it too. "There's no experience quite like qualifying for the World Cup for the first time. I'm blessed to have been at the helm for Banija to do just that. It was such a crazy experience all-around- war going on, with home games in Quebec we hadn't even been to Banija in a number of years. And of course, we've kept getting better and stronger since that day. But that was the true launchpad for Banijan football." But this experience will be much different than the last one. Due to a localized epidemic within the country, spectators have been banned from matches and they will play in front of an empty stadium.

It will be a different experience. A World Cup Qualifier, without the energy from fans? But it is what it is. Marcus Waters said it would simply be a challenge they would have to overcome. No away fans, of course, will be allowed to make the trip. Only limited media from Banija will be allowed to travel to the match. The RBSA said that they did not request the match be played a neutral venue, as they were confident steps taken by Mercedini health authorities would ensure nobody from the organization got sick and brought the disease back home. But Mercedini fans certainly bring the noise, and create a great environment, so it's much more of a disadvantage for the home side than it is for us.

When RBSA officials asked if Mercedini fans would be allowed to travel to Banija for the reverse fixture on Matchday 14, he simply referred the question to Banijan government officials, who simply said that they would monitor the situation. The Banijan Mormon church also offered its prayers and religious services for anyone suffering in Mercedini.

But Matchday 1! What an exciting day- everybody has a shot, right? All 195 squads, at this point in time, have an equal chance to be one of the 30 to join Farfadillis and Mriin at the World Cup Finals. And Banija's journey there starts in Zoloroni. And we'll find out if we can hit the ground running tomorrow night!

by **Southern Esportivan Union** » Fri May 22, 2020 10:51 am

Three Stadiums to Host Qualifying Matches

Portsmouth Arena - Portsmouth, Lee Islands - 5,500 capacity - Home to Portsmouth FC

The largest stadium in the Southern Esportivan Union, the Portsmouth Arena has top of the line modern amenities making it a must for any local football fan to visit. Every seat in the Arena enjoys a fantastic and unobstructed view of the pitch and the fans proximity to the players on the field lends itself well to an intimate atmosphere. If you can't secure yourself a ticket to get into the Arena, we're told you can join the "Northridge Viewers," a local group of football fans who, with their binoculars and telescopes, follow the match from the scenic Northridge.

660 tickets will be reserved for fans of visiting teams, all being priced at $20.

MD2: vs. Oberour Ar Moro | MD4: vs. Vilita | MD6: vs. Legalese | MD11: vs. Omerica

Newport Stadium - Newport, Lee Islands - 4,000 capacity - Home to Civil Service FC

An older and more traditional stadium, Newport Stadium nevertheless meets all of the minimum safety standards set by the WCC. It should be noted that all "seating" in the covered pavilion along the East sideline is in fact not actually seating, but standing only. Fans may bring their own lawn chairs to fill in the grassy berm along the West sideline, but an umbrella or rain jacket will more than likely be an essential accessory for doing so.

Newport Stadium has been voted as having the best concessions of any SEU football venue for some years now. The club offers a unique take on the beloved fish'n'chips with their Fish'n'chips Poutine basket; which, enjoyed with a fine Newport Stout, offers a little taste of Heaven.

480 tickets will be reserved for fans of visiting teams, all being priced at $20.

MD14: vs. Newmanistan | MD20: vs. Saintland | MD22: vs. North New South Wales | MD25: vs. Qasden

Cayo Costa Football Complex - Cayo Costa, Earo - 3,000 capacity - Home to Earo United

Built 10 minutes drive outside of the city proper, the brand new Cayo Costa Football Complex may be considered a bit "bare bones" by the international traveler but is considered quite the accomplishment for Earon football. Various upgrades are expected to be added over the coming years, with the local footballing authorities excited about the Complex's important role in youth development.

360 tickets will be reserved for fans of visiting teams, all being priced at $20.

MD8: vs. Lake Esper | MD13: vs. Krytenia | MD16: vs. Drunk People at the Local Tavern | MD18: vs. Riena

by **Cassadaigua** » Fri May 22, 2020 11:05 am

The Cup After,
by Chelsea Dufresne, Concord Heights Times

It is time for World Cup 85! We are not as excited about this one as we were the last one. All of the hype of hosting the finals in the last competition has played off, and the results are well in the books at this point. Still, as we begin anew, we can’t help but look back at what was a fantastic World Cup that both us and Baker Park put on. Despite Cassadaigua not having a long run in the tournament, stadiums were full as Cassadagan citizens were joined by passionate fanbases from all over the world at the eight host stadiums within our country. Games were sold out, and both big and small businesses reaped the rewards of the large scale event. Now, here we are. The hosting torch has been passed on to Mriin and interestingly enough, Farfadillis, who of course won the World Cup in Concord Heights last time out. Our nation will be hoping to have a similar run as the roles get reversed for the World Cup.

Since the World Cup, and being told “Eura Loser” by the nation of Eura, there has been some turnover to the team, but nothing that was greatly unexpected. Hannah Ranucci, the captain of the team and leading scorer from World Cups 78 through 84 is no longer part of the team. The 35-year old was hoping to make World Cup 84 a glorious ending to her international career, but she would have to settle for the ending that was handed to us. During the competition, at a still unspecified date but sources suggest that it will come on Matchday 7 against Sargossa, Ranucci’s #33 will be retired, becoming the first kit number to receive this honorable distinction since the nation returned to World Cup play. The team knew Ranucci would not be back, and was preparing for Rachel Schanke to take over as the team’s expecting new leading scorer. That seems to be playing out as hoped for, but it was a little more of a challenge to find out who would play alongside her up front. That is because the next two people in line, Caitlyn Mayer and Chelsea Monroe also retired from World Cup play. Due to this, Cassadaigua played a heavy schedule of friendlies, which I’ll get to in a moment.

Let us back track just a little bit to the next tournaments that we saw after losing in the round of sixteen in World Cup 84. Cassadaigua was okay in the Di Bradini Cup, but did not have an extended run. It was in fact, pretty typical of the team’s performances in that tournament. They struggled in the Sporting World Cup, but the age group for that tournament makes it not really an indicative measure of the status of the national program. In the Copa Rushmori, the Fillies played excellently, with Tiffany Nelson stunning with her performance in goal. This lead many to think that Nelson could be pushing out Kelsey Morgan as the starting goalkeeper. At 27, Nelson is six years younger then Morgan, and more then likely this will be Morgan’s last World Cup. Kelsey, however, does not acknowledge that it might be her last such Cup and feels she is still in top form. Cassadaigua was eliminated in the knockouts by them again. Yes, once again we were told “Eura Loser” by Eura.

This brought us to the more lightly heralded Wonder Cup, and it was there that the most intense competition of trying to find out who would start alongside Rachel Schanke up front would take place. Ashley Dahlin and Madison McClain appeared to be the frontrunners for the spot. In goal, Tiffany Nelson had more opportunities to outplay Kelsey Morgan, and there were some questions about the back end that needed to be answered, too. Cassadaigua had a great group stage, and were good early in the playoffs, before sputtering a little bit near the end of it, losing to Bolgano, and then dropping into the loser’s bracket, where they were defeated by the eventual champions from Kohnhead. Cassadaigua is still credited with a third place finish. In the Wonder Cup, both Morgan and Nelson played relatively equally, and since Kelsey Morgan was the incumbent, Nelson needed to outperform her, and that did not happen. Not to worry, because a heavy schedule of friendlies were also scheduled, and with these, there would be more of a chance to determine who was going to win the spots in the lineup that were still in question.

The first of the seven friendlies was a match against nearby Darmen, one of the top nations in the world being played in Concord Heights. Kelsey Morgan got the start in goal and was flawless, stopping all twelve shots on target that she would face. Overall, the game was evenly played, and the lone goal of Cassadaigua’s 1-0 win came off the foot of Zack Pierce, a player who we are very excited about watching.

Next up were the Rockets of Newmanistan, and things would turn out much different here then they did when we played them in a friendly prior to World Cup 83 and defeated them 7-0. Newmanistan has improved, and came into the match fresh off of winning the Campionato Esportiva. The match was played at the Proving Grounds in Newmanistan, and it would result in seven goals once again, but this time the Rockets had four of them. It would end up being the only loss that we would sustain in what ended up being nine friendlies, and answered the question about who was going to be our starting goalkeeper. After Morgan was brilliant against Darmen, Tiffany Nelson struggled against Newmanistan. With Morgan being the incumbent and doing nothing to really lose her position, Nelson’s struggle here was seen as the decisive factor here in the decision. A bright spot here was the play of Eddie Malone. The 30-year old was seen as down the list a few spots of being the starting striker alongside Rachel Schanke, but after he was excellent in the Wonder Cup, his getting two goals in this match went a long way in that decision as well.

In the next match, Morgan picked up another clean sheet, as Cassadaigua defeated Terre Septentrionale by the score of 3-0. Ashley Dahlin was great in the match, keeping her hopes alive of winning a starting striker role. After, Cassadaigua beat Xanneria 4-2 with Nelson in goal, then beat Filindostan 4-3 with Morgan in goal. Following that, Rachel Schanke had a huge game in a 7-2 rout of Northwest Kalactin. In what we thought closed out our friendly schedule, Danielle Cotter got a chance in goal against Nova Anglicana, a match that was scheduled the day after Nova Anglicana defeated us in Game 7 of a thrilling championship series of World Baseball Classic 48. On the pitch, we won 3-2, but Nova Anglicana played a lot better there then we expected.

It was thought at that point that we were done with the friendlies, and the nation sat back and watched one of the best Baptisms of Fire in recent memory. Many great first time nations put on a fantastic show as we got to see that the future of our sport is very bright. At first, Cassadagans were content to observe, but as the tournament went on, we couldn’t help but feel the excitement that was coming from across our Western border. The nation of Mavinet was playing exceptionally well, and would peak at the right time heading into the knockout stages. Particularly in western cities like Victoriaville or New Lakeland, some viewing parties were held across bars specifically dedicated to supporting Mavinet. As they continued to progress, support for them was felt throughout the entire country, not just in the western portion. Following their 1-0 win the championship, many Cassadagans were uplifted seeing the passion of their neighbors. CASE (Cassadagan Association for Soccer Excellence) was quick to reach out Mavinet officials and invite them to Concord Heights to play a friendly and at the stadium that hosted the championship game of World Cup 84. That idea would blossom into a home and home series between the nations. Even though Cassadaigua had played enough friendlies at this point, these two would feel a little special.

Once at Concord Heights, CASE organized a pre-game ceremony where each of their players were announced as if they were playing in their home stadium, and cheers were given to them. Queen Cassie II was on hand to meet with those who attended from Mavinet, and CASE President Taylor Connolly provided a short speech to the team talking about how special winning the Baptism of Fire truly is. It is, of course, something that we never experienced, losing in the semifinals of Baptism of Fire 30, but it can kick start a nation’s entire sports program, no matter what they choose to do with it. The players shook hands, and eventually, it was all about the soccer. Mavinet played well, but it would be Cassadaigua that prevailed, doing so by the score of 2-1. Kelsey Morgan was sharp in goal, and goals by Sierra Mattison (21') and Rachel Schanke (68') were the difference.

Finally, the team would go to Mavinet, and Morgan would get the start in goal once again. The home side played well, but once again Cassadaigua was one goal better. Zack Pierce broke a 2-2 deadlock in the 83rd minute to secure the 3-2 win. Other Cassadagan goals were scored by Meghan Wolcott (33') and Rachel Schanke (57').

With that, it’s time for the World Cup. I could begin to preview the group and all of our opponents now, but as people reading might be ready to move on to the next media publication now, we’ll wait to do that.

World Cup 85 || RP Thread

WC85 Post-Draw

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