World Cup 88- Roleplay Thread

[Ko-oren]

Group 8 Schedule

MD1: Txakhaxi v ZSeparatists, Ko-oren v Delaclava, Barunia v CR North Yorkshire, Aut-Ves-Nat v Vdara, Frestovenia v HUElavia
MD2: ZSeparatists v HUElavia, Vdara v Frestovenia, CR North Yorkshire v Aut-Ves-Nat, Delaclava v Barunia, Txakhaxi v Ko-oren
MD3: Ko-oren v ZSeparatists, Barunia v Txakhaxi, Aut-Ves-Nat v Delaclava, Frestovenia v CR North Yorkshire, HUElavia v Vdara
MD4: ZSeparatists v Vdara, CR North Yorkshire v HUElavia, Delaclava v Frestovenia, Txakhaxi v Aut-Ves-Nat, Ko-oren v Barunia
MD5: Barunia v ZSeparatists, Aut-Ves-Nat v Ko-oren, Frestovenia v Txakhaxi, HUElavia v Delaclava, Vdara v CR North Yorkshire
MD6: ZSeparatists v CR North Yorkshire, Delaclava v Vdara, Txakhaxi v HUElavia, Ko-oren v Frestovenia, Barunia v Aut-Ves-Nat
MD7: Aut-Ves-Nat v ZSeparatists, Frestovenia v Barunia, HUElavia v Ko-oren, Vdara v Txakhaxi, CR North Yorkshire v Delaclava
MD8: ZSeparatists v Delaclava, Txakhaxi v CR North Yorkshire, Ko-oren v Vdara, Barunia v HUElavia, Aut-Ves-Nat v Frestovenia
MD9: Frestovenia v ZSeparatists, HUElavia v Aut-Ves-Nat, Vdara v Barunia, CR North Yorkshire v Ko-oren, Delaclava v Txakhaxi

MD10: ZSeparatists v Txakhaxi, Delaclava v Ko-oren, CR North Yorkshire v Barunia, Vdara v Aut-Ves-Nat, HUElavia v Frestovenia
MD11: HUElavia v ZSeparatists, Frestovenia v Vdara, Aut-Ves-Nat v CR North Yorkshire, Barunia v Delaclava, Ko-oren v Txakhaxi
MD12: ZSeparatists v Ko-oren, Txakhaxi v Barunia, Delaclava v Aut-Ves-Nat, CR North Yorkshire v Frestovenia, Vdara v HUElavia
MD13: Vdara v ZSeparatists, HUElavia v CR North Yorkshire, Frestovenia v Delaclava, Aut-Ves-Nat v Txakhaxi, Barunia v Ko-oren
MD14: ZSeparatists v Barunia, Ko-oren v Aut-Ves-Nat, Txakhaxi v Frestovenia, Delaclava v HUElavia, CR North Yorkshire v Vdara
MD15: CR North Yorkshire v ZSeparatists, Vdara v Delaclava, HUElavia v Txakhaxi, Frestovenia v Ko-oren, Aut-Ves-Nat v Barunia
MD16: ZSeparatists v Aut-Ves-Nat, Barunia v Frestovenia, Ko-oren v HUElavia, Txakhaxi v Vdara, Delaclava v CR North Yorkshire
MD17: Delaclava v ZSeparatists, CR North Yorkshire v Txakhaxi, Vdara v Ko-oren, HUElavia v Barunia, Frestovenia v Aut-Ves-Nat
MD18: ZSeparatists v Frestovenia, Aut-Ves-Nat v HUElavia, Barunia v Vdara, Ko-oren v CR North Yorkshire, Txakhaxi v Delaclava

Bold: Ko-oren
Underlined: High profile matches (top 4 pots)

One look at the schedule for the group, and you know it will all come down to the last days. The games between the teams in the top four pots are largely scheduled on the final three matchdays of each half. Ko-oren versus HUElavia in round 7 and 16, followed by a round that features all of the top 4 teams with Vdara versus Ko-oren as well as HUElavia versus Barunia, and then Barunia and Vdara with their match in round 9/18. And that means that the so-called '6-point games' can turn this group upside down on the very last day. Basically, if the Dragonflies mean business, they better have this group done and dusted by the 14th or 15th game, or else it'll get a little sweaty.

As for teams outside of the top 4 that are expected to have a breakthrough cycle, the experts involved in WCQ Fantasy are quite positive about Txakhaxi. Delaclava are also tipped to have a great cycle - and we face both of them back-to-back in rounds 1/10 (for Delaclava) and round 2/11 for Txakhaxi. At least we'll have them out of the way soon enough. That said, Ko-oren are never the strongest starters to a World Cup qualification campaign, so we might just prove the Fantasy folk right by drawing or losing to them early on.

As for home games, the KFA has announced the following:
MD1: Delaclava @ Stade Amandine, Étouille
MD3: ZSeparatists @ Northern Arena, Aevanna
MD4: Barunia @ Estádio Fortaleza, Santa Teresa
MD6: Frestovenia @ Armskirk Municipal Ground, Maynard
MD8: Vdara @ Stade sur la Baie, Aminey

MD11: Txakhaxi @ Rikalathen Arena, Maethoru
MD14: Aut-Ves-Nat @ Golhampton Grounds, Greencaster
MD16: HUElavia @ Orange Bowl, Schemerdrecht
MD18: CR North Yorkshire @ Suzumebachi Stadium, Katashi

[Talamia]

*The television suddenly turns on independently*

"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages!
Here is Auxe Aggelia, accompanied as always by Gian Gianvilipendio, your favourite sports expert!
We are in our capital city Clinepalas, talking to you from the Pro Diorux TV studios - Are you a sports devote? Pick up your TV remote! - to officially announce the entry of the Talamian National Football Team in the eighty-eighth edition of the World Cup. After an absence that has lasted for two cycles, our national team returns to tread the fields that matter. Gian, did you miss the atmosphere of great occasions? "

"Yes, Auxe! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!"

"Gian?"

"Tell me, Auxe! TELL ME!"

"There was a basket on my desk"

"Was there ?! Really ?! Oh oh oh, maybe you are imagining it!"

"There was, Gian. And it contained stimulants for my sick cat. In the form of beef jerky."

"Oh yes?"

"Yes, Gian"

"Well, Auxe. I'm going to the nearest hospital for a gastric lavage"

* Gian leaves the studio unintentionally uprooting the door *

"Back to us, audience!
The development path undertaken by our national team in recent years is facing ups and downs. After the historic first participation in the eighty-fifth world cup, with the qualification touched in the last two rounds, Talamia is facing a very tough challenge. Two hundred twenty-first in the ranking, our team will start once again as a big underdog. But if there is one thing that our captain Ansem Egemon and the others have taught us it is that they will give their whole heart and maybe a little more.
As a demonstration of our commitment, today we proudly present the new uniforms and the new badge of our team, designed by the new technical sponsor Tahuatxi.
Talamia is back. More prepared than before.

Find all you need to know about our team here: OFFICIAL WIKI PAGE.

Stay tuned!"

[Banija]

Two years in- what's the early verdict for the S-FPL?


A map of the Shango-Fogoa Basin, showcasing the three countries in the S-FPL- Farfadillis, Banija, and the Busoga Islands

BUSUKUMA, NATIONAL CAPITOL REGION- If you want to put it simply, the early verdict is this- overwhelming success. And the proof? Look no further than Kitara A.A. winning the IFCF Champions League. Look at both associations flying up the ranks, where Farfadillis is officially ranked as the second strongest club association in the multiverse, while Banija is ranked 4th. And look at the money. More money's flying around than ever before, and although the accounting on the Farf side isn't public, the parachute payments to Banijan teams down below have more than tripled since the S-FPL began. The unification of the top flights for Banija & Farfadillis was ambitious, and came amidst resistance, although smaller resistance than one would think, but it has been an overwhelming success both on and off the field.

There is no better promo for a league than success, and both national teams provided it in the run up. Farfadillis won World Cup 84 and co-hosted World Cup 85. Between qualifying and the Finals, the S-FPL documents were signed and the joint venture was established. With the hype leading up, Banija and Farfadillis met in a barnstormer of a World Cup semifinal. We won 7-6. 13 total goals- it may be the record for a World Cup semifinal. Couldn't hype up the league more than that, could you? The fact that we then went on to win the World Cup Final couldn't have hurt.

All sorts of new TV and media rights deals were signed, both at home and abroad. The biggest rights increase, of course, came in Banija. Big time recent economic growth, plus the addition of Farf teams, blew up the media values of the deals in Banija, where the singular biggest rights deal exist. But enough about money. What are the effects? Since we've already established that on the field and in the bank it's been an unprecedented success ,what does this mean in other areas?

We will, naturally, focus on Banija and Busoga- the ability to do the research required on these kind of topics on the Farf side, is not exactly easy.

The Relegated 10

Of course, as everyone knows, the S-FPL top flight is 20 teams. It would start off with the 10 Farf top-flight teams, alongside 9 Banijan sides and a Busogan team. What was a joyous moment for 10 teams, aka, becoming foundational members in a new league where just one promotion/relegation spot would be had on the Banijan/Busogan side, was a disastrous moment for 10 others. 10 teams who thought they were top-flight teams would get relegated. Squads like Rukunbi FC, Aissa United, etc... Suddenly found themselves below.

But what ensured that Banija was not up in arms about the forced relegation of some of our oldest clubs? The fact of the matter is, we haven't been playing nationally for that long. For nearly 80 years, right up until our disastrous World Cup 73 Qualification effort, we basically operated via state leagues. A national knockout tournament for each state champ, and sometimes a little bit of interleague play- but by and large, teams only played teams from their region. So there is no massive history of Banijan national league soccer- just the 13 seasons of the BSL.

Some of us are old enough to remember the BSL's formation. There was big resistance then- it would doom state leagues and smaller clubs. But ultimately, it was a success. Some clubs did die. But nobody would argue we should go back to the de-regulated state league days, where regional fiefdoms did whatever they wanted. And so while this isn't the 'natural progression' of things per say, Banijan fans are understanding enough to make it happen.

Now, of course, the relegated 10 were pissed. But they did not have the weight to stop the wheels in motion. Teams like Aissa and Rukunbi have taken a hit. But, largely, these clubs have settled in. Their fans enjoy a highly competitive new-look second tier, and the race for promotion to the S-FPL is as competitive as ever. And think- since the formation of the S-FPL, both Kabakono City and the Hawabark Boulders have won the LIga B Champions Trophy, as our nation make our own case for the strongest second tier in the entire sport.

The Regional Leagues

This was also a demotion in status for the regional leagues. By adding a new joint first tier, they all essentially dropped from the second tier to become Banija's third tier. All the leagues shrunk as well- from 12 teams to 10 each, with the top two in each of the four regional leagues joining the relegated 10. For those 8 teams, this has been great- staying in tier 2, but going from a regional to a national league, has financial benefits. And, of course, competitive benefits. Look at Kabakono City's success in the LBCT.

Overall, the biggest effect on the regional leagues has been number of games. The 4x round robin with 12 teams meant 44 games a season, which many saw as too many games. Now, with 10 teams, it means 36 games a season. Four less home games, but better quality football. The league is no longer the insane 44 game marathon that it used to be. While regional league status is now even more embarrassing for a number of clubs who think they shouldn't be there(looking at you, Bunyoro RSC!) it largely means positive effects at the bottom of the table.

Also, recognize this- now, there are potentially 2 spots for promotion out of the regional leagues rather than just one. Or 1.5, to be precise. The automatic spot(Promotion Playoff Winner), plus the Promotion Playoff Runner-Up playing the second worst team in Banija's 2nd tier, for a right to a spot in the 2nd tier. So even with the regional leagues having a lower status, there is a slightly better chance to escape them.

The Fans

How has the move been for the fans? Well, we'd honestly say it's been good. Thanks to an expansive new media rights deals, and lucrative foreign media rights deals, it is easier to watch club football in all three countries than it has ever been before. More games on television and radio.

And it also means more enticing matchups, and more entertaining away days. Banijan fans have been introduced to Farf fan culture, and it has blown us away. Willing to say anything in the name of a cheer. Violence unlike anything ever seen. You know what it truly means to a people to win when you are in a league with them, week in and week out. Some of that is beginning to rub off in Banija, as the fan cultures begin to intersect.

And of course, like said above- it means deeper IFCF runs. Kitara AA are the winners of the Champions League. Teams from both sides now regularly making runs. Before the S-FPL was started, both countries had two Champions League berths. Both countries now have the maximum of four Champions League berths, meaning their fans have a better chance of seeing their club play international club football. So fans of the teams in the S-FPL? Winners.

But if you're a fan of a team chasing a S-FPL berth? Well... Then you are jealously waiting on the outside looking in. But if you make it, well, it's gonna be one hell of a good time.

The sport in Busoga

Now, before this past season, we'd say this has been great for the sport in Busoga. With Lakiska SC in particular having a number of Busogan national teamers, it meant that the small nation had a much better chance to grow its footprint, and get its talent into better leagues. While Banijans have had a great chance to get into big foreign leagues, Busogans are pretty much largely confined to the home front with just a few exceptions(looking at Kasekende Jr. in Teusland and Gassama in Eura).

They had one team in the S-FPL, and two in Banija's second tier, alongside three in the regional leagues. But this past season was disastrous. One team relegated from the second tier to the regional leagues. Another team relegated from the S-FPL to the second tier. So now, 2 second tier clubs and four regional league sides. That almost certainly makes the Busoga Islands probably the highest ranked nation in World Cup 88 Qualifying without a top-flight football club. And heck, considering the complex footballing structure here, probably the only nation to whom that applies to.

It's a disaster. It's bad for talent development, it's bad for interest in the sport. This is something that Busoga needs to rectify, and soon. Lakiska SC are a favorite to get straight back into the S-FPL, of course, but there are no guarantees. The S-FPL is strictly a Banijan/Farf affair for now, and it has the potential to be for a few seasons yet. So what was initially a boon for the sport on the Islands, is now a disaster. And that won't be fixed unless Lakiska SC or Dukuma SC get their sh*t together and find a way back into the S-FPL.

[Valentine Z]

Post 2 - Uniform Ascent.

"For the next part," Valentijn said, as she read the newspaper that Charlene recently wrote on Valentine Z and the stadium that will be designated for the sports, "Hmm, before that, how did the newspaper go? I am not talking about the viewership, I am hoping it is clear enough."

"Oh, definitely!" Charlene replied with glee and confidence in her voice, "I am really proud of this one, you know? Anyway, it all seems good and well. Only feedback I got was how people confused about the location bit. "Naypyithaw, Burma, territory of Valentine Z" wasn't too clear for those who is not familiar with us, which is around the good 80% of the community. Ahh, but I told them that it was because we still use actual city and country names, but we have them bunched up together under autonomous regions, like so."

"Mhm, very good, then," Valentijn nodded, leaning back on her chair as she watched a couple of other Valentians do their administrative work on her desk, "So is there anything else- ohh right, that. We need uniforms!"

The Valentians have came up with several drafts and proposals, both from the Sixty, as well as from the Valentian citizens that have so far been wholly supporting the most bizarre football team, all consisting of government bureaucrats, officials, and the like. An average Valentian would not have minded if they were asked to get into the world of World Cup (and they were asked), but for the most parts, they simply like playing it domestically; the stakes tend to get too high when it comes to competing with other nations. Going back to the uniforms, it was obvious as to what the Valentians were going for - the triangle and low-poly aesthetics have might as well been trademarked and copyrighted by them (though they won't), and the colors could get too colorful and Technicolor-like. The drafts have been sprawled across Valentijn's desk, with her gathering billions of citizens for decision-making alongside the Sixty.

The first draft has a green-and-pink motif, perhaps as a strong homage to the official flag of Valentine Z. Interspersed by hints of violets and lavenders, the draft received a 66% favor out of the 14 billion that reside on Earth and Mars of Valentian territory.

The second draft was a palette swap, while keeping the same aesthetics. Blue and light blue as the primary colors, interspersed with greens and pinks that played a slightly lesser role. This draft, on the other hand, received a whopping 80% approval from the billions of citizens.

"Accounting for those that couldn't exactly vote, like you know, actual babies, I think this is going to work in our favor!" Valentijn clasped her hands together, satisfied with the design and approving it to represent Valentine Z on the international grounds, "Only thing I feel is that the names could be bigger. Maybe just Clarissa Star, for instance, instead of Clarissa Alanis Star Samantha."

"Couldn't we have two sets of uniforms to satisfy both?" Jamie asked, doodling on her notepad as she talked to Valentijn and to the other folks around her.

"It is quite a practical idea, but..." Gwen replied, trailing off, "I mean, don't get me wrong, it is going to look unique, and we could change uniforms on the half-time, but I reckon it is going to be a little... difficult. I don't really see a lot of football teams doing it on my time in the other worlds."

"I suppose that is a good point. Mind you, I am not irritated or mad over it, and I reckon that I simply give the suggestion a shot. Plus, I do think that it will make things more complicated, like having to change uniforms halfway, on top of confusing both ourselves and the opposing team."

With a few more final decisions and finishing touches, the jerseys were printed out and were ready for publication and for a reveal to the rest of the world.

Click here for a bigger image. Template source: Freepik.

[Sharktail]

This is my story.

Character:
Me-Gaby(32 y.o)
Sharktail NT striker.

"The ball go through to Shakir who start running into the penalty area. He receive the ball and try to dribble past Pemecutan defender. Oh no, is he fouled or tripped himself. Nik Akif try to recover the ball but Pemecutan defender take a quick action to clear the ball. Corner kick to Sharktail. Harold will be the taker. The match time show 90 minutes has passed. Just a last crucial minute left for Pemecutan and Sharktail to find a winning goal to win this game. Harold seem to take a deep breath. Surely he also feel the pressure in this last minute. He take a look in the penalty area. Sharktail player seem to come to the penalty area. It may be a risk for Sharktail but it may be the great chance for them to find a goal. Corner taken goes high into the penalty area. Pemecutan defender rise high and head the ball out the penalty box but not far and down to Farhan. Pemecutan defender quickly mark him tight. Wil he be able to keep the ball. A tight pressure to him now. He may lose the ball but he still able to make a last tap to make the ball goes into the right side and...Irfan come fast to get the ball and shot it to the net. In the last minute, Pemecutan defender fail to clear the ball properly cause them to concede one goal. A total celebration from Sharktail player. Sahami run into the field and join the player. What a moment to enjoys."

Memories. A beautifull and golden of memory. A memory that all the footballer want. An achievement for the hard work, all the sacrifice, to show their gratitude to the fans, to show their strenght. All of that, a dream for all footballer. A dream for all footballer to be the best, no matter what level they are. From best in amateur, then pushed up to be top among the profesional,want to be recognized as national star and last as the world star. A long process. Some who lucky enough can feel it right away but sometime even in whole career you try hard, it may never come closer to you.

That my best ever memories as a profesional footballer. A tears that come down that days really was a beautifull. A moment that not i or anyone here know if it may repeat. Truly what everyone says, memory is precious, it worthy to be keep with us. For me, this will be the memory to be portrait in my heart. A wonderful journey i have with Sharktail. Even it not big like world cup, but i still happy and i know the future generation may be able to pull off more goods.

When i look back at the past, it has been a long journey and i have faced a many stories in my career. How i start playing footbal seriously, how i gained more confidence to go to higher stage, while meeting many type of people. Everyone always ask me how i am before i really become a popular. When i still a child, i quite attached to football. Not just i love to play it, but also love to watch it. If there are football match held, i will ask my father to bring me there. Sometime, i will go by myself. But once i remember, i back home crying after being hitt by the ball. A normal things happen when you watch football in village. Playing without proper shoes, just on the dirt, just a village field without any safety protection. I quite traumatized that time. At least i back to watch them play again tomorrow. When i remember back, i dont know if the things i said as traumatized ever happen.

One thing i will still remember until now. As a young kid, i always want a friend on my age. Once when i 6 y.o, i try to join some kid who close to my age. I want to befriend with them. I always listen them talk about football and see them play. So i want to join them play too. However, none of them i can make friend. They doesnt want to play with me. I dont know how i really feeling that time. I not asking them for reason as i dont want a fight to happen. From that time,i never attend any village football match again. I dont wanna be in awkard situations and dont want this problem lead to something unnecessary. If anyone ask whether i want to know the real reason or not, i will say yes. However i keep it myself. I just thinking i may not suit to be in their group that'all. One days, i have been approached by one of them, i remembered him. He can be considered a quite a core of this group. He explained to me, there are no proper reason for rejecting me that days, just all of them try to act big and bully others, and he said they look at me as a loner. I don't get it. Is that really a reason. Am i as a loner not qualify to fit in their group. Even i feel a bit disappointed with them, i keep calm and dont think of anything bad about them. Let them be. I dont think i got anything if i doing something. I not a type of person who will pick a fight or badmouthing people. Just take a deep breath and relax.

When i reach an age to attend a school, i out from village and apply for a standard school, Sekolah Kebangsaan Pekan Ru in Kantan. I choose this school not because there are anything special. I can make it to high standard school if i try. I just go without not any proper reason. I think that the thing is. If i have others, i cannot even remembers.

In Sharktail, our school system may be different from other nation. Starting 7-12, it primary school, 13-17/18 is high school. First time i arrived in Kantan, of course a bit of amazed. A turtle gone out from the shell. It took me 3/4 weeks to at least half familiar with surrounding. At least thanks to teacher and a few student who willing to talk and answer my question. I choose to stay at my uncle house rather than hostel. It not far from school. He unmarried, so his house quite silent. At least i have place to stay with someone i know. My primary school life have started as a student of Sekolah Kebangsaan Pekan Ru. This is where i learn to be independance.

[Eraman]

CHAPTER 1
ARE YOU READY?

When Tun Sengalang Petara instructed me not to leave the country at all cost, I’m convinced this time that the date of the general election is too close. The most notable clue I saw was that Tun Sengalang Petara started making visits to every state in the country to ensure that his party's election machinery was functioning properly.

However, since he became a Member of Parliament 21 years ago where I was directly involved as his lawyer, he has told me many times that the election is the last election for him and he will not contest again. This desire is repeated every time a general election takes place. Yet, there he was preparing for his fifth general election, the third time as the leader of the party.

I remember how I got to know Tun Sengalang Petara in the year 57.

I just opened a law firm on the outskirts of Anara with a female friend who studied with me at university. Before I tell you about how I got to know Tun Sengalang Petara, I think I need to tell you about my friend, Suri.

Suri is an attractive woman with white skin and height taller than most women. Her face is oval in shape and she is really good at make-up without putting on a lot of make-up. Her tiny mouth and well taken care of teeth complete her smile. Her hair had lost the original color of a Malay woman. As far as I remember her hair color was never perfectly black. Always colored. She also loves to wear sexy clothes since university. Her skirt is never lower than her knee and her clothes are always up to date.

From her, I got to know Tun Sengalang Petara.

In the year 57, our newly formed firm was still looking for direction. We try to market our name by meeting a variety of people we believe can help us improve our client list.

Among those we approached were housing developers and Suri suggested that we meet with Tun Sengalang Petara, at that time still known as Putra Daulapura Sengalang Petara. Tun Sengalang Petara at that time still maintained his royal status and was not directly involved in politics. He was a well-known housing developer at that time. If we can make Tun Sengalang Petara our client, our firm will explode.

Suri has known Tun Sengalang Petara since we were at university.

In our second year at university as law students, we were assigned to organize a charity dinner. Suri was determined it will be the best charity dinner ever held and this can only be achieved if sponsorship on the night can be raised in large numbers. This is where the role of Tun Sengalang Petara is needed.

Suri’s older sister worked as a salesperson for the Tun Sengalang Petara's housing companies. As an efficient salesman, she dared to do anything to sell the houses built by her boss and was the number one salesperson for Tun Sengalang Petara. Suri used her sister’s connection with Tun Sengalang Petara.

On the charity night, Tun Sengalang Petara sponsored two tables and these tables were filled with Suri's friends who were mostly new celebrities in Eraman including one other Suri’s older sister who had just become a singer. Since the record company that released her album was still new, they sponsored some of their artists for free to sing at the dinner. This has made our charity dinners among the best for so long.

"So, are you ready?" Tun Sengalang Petara's words startled me back to reality. He looked at me and I was kind of shocked. He probably saw me lost in my thoughts.

We are at Tun Sengala Petara's office in Daulapura and we have just finished discussing with the other component parties about the campaign to be made. I am the only one in the meeting who is not a member of any political party.

Tun Sengalang Petara likes to take me to meetings that have nothing to do with me. But Tun Sengalang Petara is like a dictator. If he wants me in the meeting, no one can question. I do not know if my name was in the minutes of the meeting or all the meetings I’ve attended with government officials under Tun Sengalang Petara

Usually Tun Sengalang Petara will say "Ha! This is the lawyer who will sit with us and give his opinion on our problem.” No one will question whether or not I am eligible to be in the meeting.

I expect the Eraman Parliament to be dissolved in the eleventh month of this year while the national football team is busy with the World Cup qualifiers. I’m expecting that based on my conversation with Tun Sengalang Petara lately. But until now, only Tun Sengalang Petara knows when he will dissolve the parliament. The card is in his hands.

He has used all the cards he has including declaring a state of emergency for a year to prevent elections from being held. Too many issues are raised by various parties. He thinks the chance for his party to win again is only 50:50. He thinks he is ready to retire.

I am well acquainted with the character of Tun Sengalang Petara. If he says something, it’s a political ploy that he will repeat in his conversations with other people he meets. He ate drink slept and breathed politics. I'm not surprised if he plays politics even with his wife. This means that if he says something, it is to keep him safe in the political game.

He has always been known for his ability to play safe politics. He had served with two different prime ministers. With every prime minister, he always managed to be a cabinet member and subsequently became prime minister only after 2 terms as a member of parliament.

He has used his position all this while to develop the area he represents, Daulapura to sway the people in his constituency to continue to support him. He also made sure he could be "helped" with various projects and government contracts. Many have said all sorts of bad things about Tun Sengalang Petara but no one can prove anything.

The reason Tun Sengalang Petara asking me if I am ready or not is whether I have studied all the necessary laws to ensure that there are no problems that he will face for the next election. On my part, even though for the past 5 terms I have been told by him that he is serving for his last term, when there were rumors of an election being held, I had bought all the latest acts regarding elections and studied them.

Therefore, my answer to Tun Sengalang Petara when asked that question is just one word:

"Yes."

[Sarzonia]

The results may not have been exactly what Sarzonian national team manager Nicola Mentes was hoping for as the Stars walked into the team's dressing room in Dave Wilson Stadium following their 4-3 defeat to longtime regional rivals Legalese, but he was sure of one thing.

The Stars were back.

After sitting out the World Cup 87 cycle in protest over Taeshan being named with Ethane as a co-host of the tournament, the Incorporated Football Federation opted to keep the Stars in the running for World Cup 88 qualifying. Mentes decided he wanted to give his players some playing time against other teams so they could get used to international football outside of Atlantian Oceania.

The Stars also got an opportunity to face off against the most recent Baptism of Fire Cup champions in Eshialand City. They may not have gotten the curbstomping the Stars handed Graintfjall prior to World Cup 86, a triumph that eluded the Stars against the then-Baptism of Fire Cup champions during two group stage matches in the qualifying campaign, but they still walked out of Eshialand City SuperDome with a 2-1 victory. Mentes decided to start Carlton Sandt against Eshialand and Marce' George against Legalese, and he thought both goalkeepers handled themselves fairly well.

Neither one was expected to challenge Paolo Gomes for his spot in the starting 11. In fact, the biggest challenge to Gomes had nothing to do with tactics or communicating with defenders.

It had to do with learning English.

Sure, he was getting better at barking out instructions and understanding his teammates when they spoke to him in football terms. Team captain Clayton Wilson took it upon himself to learn Portuguese so he could communicate with his goalkeeper in his native language. Midfielder Brady Reynolds also made it a point to learn the language. Carlos dos Santos already spoke it natively, even though the latter player also spoke English fluently.

"I'm getting a little better at it, but I think it's still a mental thing," Gomes said through a translator. When dos Santos walked over, the two conversed briefly in Portuguese, then dos Santos interjected. "It's mostly a mental thing. He can speak English well enough when there isn't much pressure, but put a camera on him and he's like a deer in the headlights."

At least the mental health talk among the Stars at this point centered mainly around their starting keeper's lack of confidence in speaking English. For a team whose defining moments of the World Cup 84 cycle centered on grief and their continued management of it in the wake of manager Bryan Ostrom's death by self-inflicted gunshot wound, it was a far more pleasant topic to discuss.

[Eshialand]

Welcome to the Jungle
Eshialand 2 - 0 Independent Athletes from Quebec
Eshialand 1 - 2 Sarzonia

The day arrived for the big game. A game like no other, some would say, for today was the first time a game would be played in the Eshialand City SuperDome.

Many were skeptical of this game, saying as the Independent Athletes were the 33rd best team in the world while Eshialand was a lowly 203rd. Independent observers were predicting such bleak scorelines as 0-3 and 1-4. Needless to say, the Owls were going to lose this one.

However, that didn't really matter now, because today was special. Today, Eshialand would be raising their Baptism of Fire 75 banner and receiving their championship rings. No number of goals scored against them could take that away from them. Another thing that nobody could ever take away from them was, of course, the amazing feeling of finally playing soccer again, which was something they had waited far, far too long for.

They decided to wear their third kits this go around, for no reason other than the fact that they wanted to show them off. Hey, they looked cool, could you really blame them?

And so, it was time for kickoff. Eshialand won the coin toss, and they were off. At first, the match was pretty quiet. The Owls didn't want to take any risks, since one goal against them could very well mean their end.

However, by the 43rd minute, Melissa Carey had had enough. She was tired of just passing the ball around with the other midfielders and defenders, and she wanted to make a play that actually meant something. So, she ran the ball deep into Grim Reapers territory, and passed it off to a wide-open Alice Carroll, who only knew how to do one thing in that situation, and no, it wasn't panic.

She decided to shoot the ball up into the top left corner, with the Québécois keeper having no chance. Man, she was like Rembrandt when it came to painting those corners! 1-0.

Hold on, this was unprecedented... Eshialand had a lead? I don't think anybody expected that! But wait, it gets better.

Any sane person would've just recognized their lead and tried to do everything they could to stop it from disappearing like a ship sailing into the Bermuda Triangle in heavy fog... but the Eshian team was never much for the rational approach. Instead, they took the opening goal as if it was the real win, and played the rest of the game like it meant literally nothing, blasting the IAQ with an absurd offense that any team would be jealous of.

In the 65th minute, the Reapers had their chance, with one of their forwards blasting a shot towards the Eshian net. Alexander Kolek could only watch as the ball soared over his head... and the crossbar too. No goal!

In the 72nd minute, a Québécois midfielder messed up a dribble, with the ball going directly to Dominique LaPlante. She passed the ball off to Lysander Moore, who gave it off to Avery MacDougall. She didn't hold onto the ball for long, however, as an IAQ defender was about to take the ball. So, she passed it right back to Moore, who shot it to a wide-open right side of the net. 2-0.

And, as time ran out, the score remained 2-0. What had just happened? Were they dreaming? Perhaps hallucinating? Nope, that was the actual score! Their first two-goal clean sheet, too!

After this game, the king announced another friendly. This time, they'd be inviting Sarzonia to the SuperDome. There are many theories as to why he decided to set this one up, but the prevailing one is that he wanted to show the multiverse what Eshialand could truly do. However, my personal favorite theory is that the first friendly was set up to condition the Owls for the games to come, and to get them comfortable with losing. Eshialand defeating the Independent Athletes was definitely not part of that plan, so that's when he decided on a match against Sarzonia. Take this theory with a pound of salt though.

3 days after the IAQ friendly, it was time to play Sarzonia. Oddsmakers were, again, not confident. They figured it would end at 0-3, or maybe 1-3 if Eshialand was lucky. The Stars won the coin toss, and within just 8 minutes, a Sarzonian forward put the ball past Kolek. 0-1.

Okay, so not the best start... but they could recover, right?

The first half didn't provide many chances, as the champions of World Cup 22 played a shut-down game, but Carroll did get one shot on target which was easily stopped by Carlton Sandt. Rats!

In the 59th minute, however, the tides seemed to change, as Melissa Carey swiped the ball from one of the Sarzonian midfielders, and started passing the ball back and forth with various members of Eshialand's team. Eventually, it got back to her, and she managed to put it past Sandt to make the score 1-1. Hey look, a tie!

Of course, it couldn't last forever, and in the 78th minute, one of the Sarzonian midfielders put one past Kolek to make the score 1-2, which would be the final score in the match.

Of course, just because it was a loss on paper doesn't mean it felt like one. The Owls only lost by one goal to former world champions! That was a win in their book.

If there was anything that these two friendlies showed, it was that the Owls were a serious team and not just some fly-by-night pushovers. They were here to play, and now the whole multiverse knew.

[Kelssek]

THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE ALL THE COOL KIDS ARE READING
THROWING FLARES AT THE GANTRY SINCE 134 F.E.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Moonbeam Infantino’s incredible vision for the future of football

Football Kelssek director Moonbeam Infantino has attracted attention and controversy since being elected to the board. The following transcript of his interview with our editorial team about his proposals for the future of the sport has been edited for clarity.

You recently gave a speech in which you said the future of football is under threat. This is something a lot of people would find really puzzling. What makes you think such a problem exists?

Football is dying. No one can deny this. You just look around and it is so obvious! And it is behind such a terrible decay in society. The worst part is that today the children are playing Fortnight, not football, and so have lost touch with our Mother Earth. Football is the way to restore their cosmic energies, to reconnect with Gaia, to feel the healing energies in our bodies once again. When we restore our souls, only then will football be saved, and only if the children are interested in football, then they can feel rooted and properly grow like trees in a desert.

Do you have any evidence that children are not interested in football?

This is something of great concern. The youth of today no longer have the ability to pay attention for 90 minutes, they want everything in 90 seconds. They refuse to watch full matches and only care about the highlights. We must do what is necessary to make sure they pay attention for the full 90 minutes.

What do you mean by “make sure”?

Yes, this is really key, I have seen some scientists who think you can increase attention span through electrical signals in the brain, so perhaps attaching children to chairs when they watch football matches and applying electric currents to stimulate their brains, this has had good results.

You want to strap children to chairs and... apply electric currents to them?

Electronic therapy, I should emphasize this would of course need more experimentation. We only use 4 per cent of our brains, anything that can help unlock our potential, there are unlimited possibilities.

You’re talking... in theory, though, just to be clear, you’re not actually proposing to actually...

We need to fix the terrible psychological problems to fix football. It is just like when I was elected to the Football Kelssek executive board. Some people said that the election was stolen. Well then we’d better find it, right? Why would you do with a stolen election anyway? This is the kind of thinking that we need to transcend our post-factual modern condition.

Well, you have said before that you welcome any inquiry into those allegations, but... I just... You would like children being strapped to chairs and being given electric shocks?

(long pause) You know, that’s a great question. I don’t know if that’s something I would like, really, but it is something that is necessary. But I have many other ideas that we can save football with. For example, we need to change the World Cup. There are too many meaningless matches against countries no one has ever heard of. There should be a system where you can only qualify for the World Cup if you show that you are one of the best thirty teams, or something like that. This will create more social media for football.

There’s already...

This is also a problem because a World Cup can only be a World Cup if the best teams take part. Last World Cup, Eura was not there. It was terrible for social media. The best teams should always be in the World Cup and they should play more often. We want to see Valanora vs. Nephara not just once in forever, but every week if possible. That’s how you concentrate attentive synergies.

I assume given your directorship that you include Kelssek in that group? Isn’t that a contradiction given that we only recently-

Have you seen the latest rankings? Kelssek are 10th and so obviously should be part of any World Cup. Why should there be a problem? If you look at the schedule for the World Cup, Kelssek is going to play so many unknown countries. What gets more people to watch, for example – Kelssek versus Cassadaigua, or Kelssek versus... you know, some country no one knows, like... ‘Starblaydia’?

Uhm. Well...

I’m sorry, I do have a meeting after this.

When the Kelssek Hockey League adopted your proposals for reform it was abandoned almost as soon as it was adopted because fans protested against it and it ended up causing massive logistical problems, including an exploding computer when it tried to create the fixture schedule. Was that a mistake?

This is a very big accusation that some people who have a lot of anger and racism are making.

[Squornshelan Remnant States]

Lifted Lamp, Chapter 1

"KOIRALA OUT - GROOTHUIS OUT," read the largest sign at the demonstration in front of the SCFA's headquarters. "Lions led by Donkeys," proclaimed another. It was not a particularly large demonstration. There had been a much larger one after the team's disastrous early exit from IAC11. Recent results had been far from what they'd hoped for, but good enough to keep the majority of fans quiescent, if not entirely satisfied. Those out in the courtyard now, SCFA President Ailen Koirala was certain, were those who had opposed and criticized her every step of the way since her election ten years prior.

Resignation had certainly occurred to her at one point or another in that time. Ten years was a long time in this business, though Association President was definitely a bit less volatile a position than Manager. Groothuis was the fifth person to lead the team under Koirala's administration, and by far the longest tenured. The Omerican's blunt, short-spoken manner hadn't endeared her to the Confederate press, but players and fans had come to respect her for it, aided by her exacting standards. That respect, most especially the continued support from team leaders and the locker room as a whole, had likely saved Groothuis's job a few years back, when the team, reeling from a bad qualifying performance to skip the Cup of Harmony, and then crashed out of the IAC.

Turning away from her office window and the discontented supporters outside, Koirala thought back to the conversation she'd had with Groothuis. It had been a long one. She'd allowed a week to pass after the team had returned from Havynwilde before setting the meeting. Discussions were more comfortable, she'd found, when one party wasn't expecting to be fired in the course of conversation. It was clear that Groothuis had still been expecting a dressing down of sorts for her team's recent underperformances. Koirala had decided not to address that right away, focusing on necessary preparations for World Cup 87 qualifying. She'd hoped to make it clear by her choice of topic that she fully intended to move forward from one of the Black-and-Reds' worst cycles in recent memory with Groothuis rather than without. Still, in the end it had proved necessary to be more direct.

"Then you aren't going to ask for my resignation."

"Anne-Sophie, if I were going to ask you to resign I'd have done it a week ago. What this team needs right now is not to leave another manager by the wayside. This isn't a team you inherited anymore, it's the one you've built. One look at what these players have accomplished domestically gives me all the faith in your personnel decisions that I need."

"All the more reason to find fault with my tactics."

"The argument can be made, yes, but I don't agree with it. I'm not here to figure out what went wrong in Havynwilde, my job is to put the right person in the right place to do that. I still believe that person is you."

Groothuis's intense self-criticism and introspection was trying at times, Koirala had to admit, but her tenure had been the first chance for stability since Bethany Donnell had been sacked. Koirala still harbored some doubts over whether firing the Brenecian mid-qualifying had been the right call. Perhaps that was why she had been so hesitant to dismiss Groothuis prematurely. Improvement over the two years since their chat had been incremental, but distinctly noticeable. True, the way their run at IAC12 had ended was frustrating after such a dominant showing in the group stage, but it was still something to build on. Now on the eve of World Cup 88 Qualifying, Koirala felt herself gripped by an odd sense of optimism. She couldn't point to any one thing, but something felt different this time.

[Txakhaxi]

TXAKHAXI IN THE WCQ
KILLING TWO BIRDS WITH ONE STONE
AN INTRODUCTION WITH THREE TITLES

WHAT?

---

Making an introduction is certainly not the style that characterizes us Txakhaxi. In other times, we would have spent hours trying to come up with a perfect news story that summarizes the formation of our national team, its current situation, and its expectations for these WCQs. We firmly believe that a good roleplay should combine various artistic facets: a good presentation, an interesting content, a development over time, and, if possible, a visual accompaniment that is pleasing to the eye. Beyond the fact that we have never even reached our own standards, this time around we are forced to take a different path. Real life can be a real stone in the shoe. Just look at us desperately trying to play a World Cup as our nation falls apart. The hands of the clock chase us incessantly: war, famine, injustice, and other peculiarities of real life have us slightly zoned out lately. For this reason we were unable to present a properly structured nation to the WC, at least to the extent that we need to carry out our normal role-playing style.

HUH?

---

Txakhaxi is a slightly confusing project. On the one hand, its origin is due solely and exclusively to the interest of its people to remain in the community. Furthermore, our nation is guided by the unchanging desire to start from scratch, leaving behind the mistakes of the past. This implies not worldbuilding on the air, but starting from solid and well-defined pillars. We hope to live here for many years, so we're hoping to achieve the highest level of habitability standards possible. This could mean putting our national team aside, at least a little. Of course, we continue to support them and create their history, but for this we must work in their environment first.

SO WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THIS INTRODUCTION?

---

This introduction, then, serves to expose our position regarding these WCQs. We are moving away from our traditional style, not out of liking, but out of necessity. We are investing the free time that real life leaves for us in laying the groundwork for (in our opinion) better quality role-play in the near future. To those who intend to follow our coverage of the competition, we invite you to enter the bowels of Txakhaxi. This journey will take us to different facets of the nation's worldbuilding. From intrinsic national issues, to elements of creative development and design. Although we are not enthusiastic about putting aside the football part -which is, after all, the reason why we are here after all- we believe that showing our creative identity gives at least an overview of who we are, on the field, in the stands, or wherever you want to role-play with us.

OK, SO?

---

We must clarify that we are well aware of our artistic limitations. For every aspect of worldbuilding, you can easily find better examples, both in our community and out there on the internet. That said, our hope for this little 10-post project, aside from our participation in the WCQ, is to bring to those interested a crappy guide to doing things the Txakhaxi way: a crappy way that is. And you're probably wondering "why on earth would I want to do things in a crappy way?" Well the answer is very simple: worldbuilding is an art that we must often put aside because it implies having different skills, which clearly not all of us have. This is what the Txakhaxi way, proud heir to the failed Tiog way, is all about. We Txakhaxi have no talent for writing, or for graphic design, or for linguistics, or for many other things. We could step aside and leave thousands of things unexplained or underdeveloped. We could also turn to someone else to do it for us. And we clarify that there is nothing wrong with it, but it is simply not our style. We want it all, and we want everything made by ourselves, no matter how crappy it is. Our talent is to create all these things out of sheer willpower. We are not good at graphic design, and we don't have the time to learn it. No problem, our specialty is looking for an accessible alternative on the internet. We are not linguists, nor could we ever be, but that does not prevent us from building our language. [Important note: there are Txakhaxi graphic designers and linguists. You know what I meant]. Many nations are admirable examples for each of these arts, and many more. Many other nations have set aside some of these topics. Maybe, just maybe, this can be of use to someone. And even if it isn't, it will at least serve as an overview of our culture, ideology, and way of seeing the world.

THAT'S OK... I GUESS

---

We are sorry for the lack of content with which we have to bring our nation to you. It is a real shame for us not to be able to give you something with which you can build a good story involving Txakhaxi or its players. If there's anything we can contribute to facilitate your RPs, contact us and we'll be happy to invent something on the spot.

[The Hainan Union]

Haikou University, The Hainan Union, April 2021

Haikou University (or "Haida," 海大) is in fact a good hour's drive south of Haikou, the capital city of the Hainan Union. The university's founders, merchants Su Jincheng and Liang Jiawei, weren't interested in having an urban campus so much as an insulated sanctuary of learning. They built the campus atop some farmland in Chengmai County, generously compensating the farmers they displaced. The result? A "college bubble" closed in by four gates, with tree-lined roadways; sprawling athletics complexes; a happy marriage of modernist, Jeffersonian, and traditional Chinese architecture; canteens and cafés galore.

Haikou University has college sports teams, including association football teams. Team members get the strongest impetus to leave the Haida bubble, for they play away games against Sanya University, Sanya Normal University, the Hainan Institute of Technology, and three schools located in the Fengjie Autonomous Region of New Zhengguo, among others. But barring these trips, some athletes have little desire to leave the gates otherwise. Campus and Chengmai County are picturesque already; one can scarcely demand anything more. At least, this is how Haikou University's defender Lin Zhiwei felt as he sank into a cushiony chair before a desk in the Liang Jiawei Library, overlooking a grove of lemon trees.

Zhiwei was from Makarov, Muralos, born to parents who moved from The Hainan Union (then Hsintai) to work as biomedical engineers. Makarov is a bit like Haikou: near the sea, near mountains, quite green. The climate is biting, though, and the air invariably crisp, while in Haikou, it never seems to get too cold or too dry. It made sense for Zhiwei to forgo his spot at Muralos' Urbego National University to come down to Haida: a home away from home, not an unfamiliar place (he'd traveled to The Hainan Union every other year and held dual citizenship), but not so familiar as to bore him.

Zhiwei had gotten out his laptop and pulled up innumerable tabs already– a few research papers here, a few search results there. Had these materials been printed, they would have taken up about 20 of the Liang Jiawei Library's personal study desks. Zhiwei landed on a tab for his online word processor of choice when he felt a slap on his shoulder.

It was Jin Li, fellow defender for the Haida men's team and Haikou native. His grandparents were ethnic Koreans from northeast China– a much colder place with blizzards they did not miss.

The two football players exchanged pleasantries and banter. "How long have you been in here?" "Just 10 minutes." "How much work do you need to do today?" "Finish this paper that I haven't started. Well, I have a paragraph down and two more outlined." "That's a great start already."

Zhiwei mentioned that he had a photo open from the most recent Haida football match, tucked in the bottom corner of his computer screen, as a form of "quenching one's thirst by seeing the plums." Jin Li politely told him that this old Chinese idiom is now Internet slang in the Hainan Union for admiring someone from afar. Like a celebrity crush! But not a soccer field. "If you didn't spend all your time on academic websites, you'd know." ("Oh, no.")
(OOC: As far as I know, this is not actually slang in any RL Chinese-speaking country. It's just a Hainan Union thing.)

After enough prodding from Jin Li, Zhiwei abandoned work for that afternoon and got on a rental car to downtown Haikou, with Jin Li driving. On the aux, some instrumental jazz music was playing.

"Hey, you missed the east ramp to Haikou!" Zhiwei exclaimed about 25 minutes into this excursion. "How did you manage to do that..."

"Ah, shit. Let's stop at Macun then. I don't feel like turning back."

"I guess that works..." Macun had seaside restaurants and kayaking tours to offer. It wasn't a cornucopia of sights like Haikou, but it was a pretty place in its own right.

"I'm not going to murder you."

"That wasn't reassuring."

The jazz music stopped and an alert appeared on the rental car's dashboard.

"Whoa, my phone connected to hands-free calling?!" Jin Li pressed the "talk" button on the steering wheel.

"Is this Jin Li?" the raspy voice on the other end asked. "I'm Lin Lei. Do you have time to talk?"

[Bollonich]

Pitxi Film Festival

Life > Football

Genres
Tragedy and Drama

Overview
This movie is a movie about the tragic story of forgotten Bollonischian Female footballer Na’ima Drahoslava Speziale. The film follows her story from her early steps in football to the hard work and pain she endured to fight for women’s rights in football, to her eventual success and untimely demise right before the first ever international match featuring female players.

Plot
The story is based on the life of Na’ima Drahoslava Speziale, and influenced by her biography, The Lady who changed the Game written by Kōsuke. Na’ima’s life is a tragic however inspiring story. The story follows Na’ima as she is growing up in the poor streets of Lagos. Her interest in football peaked when her older brother was bought a football, however it was her who’s feet were always glued to the ball. Her parents dismissed this as just a part time hobby however little they knew about her true talent. She was quickly spotted by the coach of Sporting Club Lagos. Her father a conservative person by virtue didn’t agree to let her play at the club, her mother however was extremely supportive of her and was able to convince her father that her talent shan’t go unnoticed. Hence began her time at SC Lagos, she fought against misogyny and discrimination to finally get a position in the SC Lagos first team. She was the first female player ever in the history of the Bollonischian League to have made an appearance. This encouraged and inspired a large number of female players to join the league and advance the ranks. However her largest effect on the sport hadn’t come yet. Her rise to the top of football had been tremendous, but being from a small part of town she couldn’t handle the fame. She went down the lifestyle of a number of footballers, Drugs, Alcohol and Sex. This was during her later periods around her late 20s. Despite her lifestyle, she had a life long friend called Prudence. They were best friends for a long time, however they had grown apart since Na’ima’s rise to fame. With her loss of her one true friend, her spiral into depression and addiction was fastened. It was during this time itself that she started her protests on allowing female players into the Bollonischian National Team. After months of protests this goal was reached, but Na’ima had also reached her breaking point. During the protests she often lashed out and showed signs of her mental trauma, but there was no one to look out for her. That is when with her friend Prudence’s death, due to cancer which prudence hadn’t told Na’ima about. Na’ima was unaware about her illness and this pushed her past the breaking point with her passing away on the 28th of January 1965 from a drug overdose. This is the climactic moment of the movie, when the sole focus is on the fate of Na’ima. The movie stresses on the health impacts of a sudden rise to fame and distancing yourself from family members.

Directed by Jonie Nicosia
Produced by Irena Walker
            Jonie Nicosia
Written by Jonie Nicosia
Cinematography Yulina Martinez
Running Time 134 minutes
Starring Solie Mac
         Yulianna Chaudhari
         Elouan Adams
         Matea Gim
         Silvia Bramson
         Suhail Tangeman

Reception & Awards
Life > Football which is still in the box office has brought in over 300 million Bollonisches. The reviews on the internet are highly positive, with both critics and fans liking the way the film turned out. Some reviews form Bollonich’s premiere film reviewing website, Mushy Zucchini, are:-
Perlita Falkenrath (Movie Critic, Vreton City Journal) - Life > Football illustrates various deep-rooted problems with money and healthcare with football players which society needs to work out to fix. Alienation of successful players and people, is also shown to have adverse effects. The film is brilliant and brings out the negative effects of these and how it cracks open one’s life.
Quirin Law - The movie is an artistic brilliance achieving what it aims at, with simple cinematography and a simple plot. The story is told with great precision and accuracy, and it is important not to over exaggerate the events which the movie is pretty successful at.

Awards
The movie has won various local awards with it being awarded with the best cinematography, Jonie Nicosia winning best Director and Solie Mac winning best actress at the Bollonischian National Film festival.

[Savojarna]

SavojarSports.sj - inside reports from all Savojarna
Vilita, again

By Jaukka Halanen

Following the traditional draw procedure last night, the groups have been set up for the 88th World Cup Qualifiers starting next month. Savojarna, being placed in the middle of Pot 2, were primarily looking at the first pot with the traditional heavyweights and the third one, containing many dangerous upcoming nations. It wasn’t one of the biggest threats available that they drew, but still a reasonably big threat that the Northlights drew from Pot 3. The Squornshelan Remnant States, number 60 in the Multiverse, are particularly known in Savojarna for four SFS A players, most notable among them Admiral left winger Jzeovak Vladcik. On the international stage, the two teams met once on neutral soil, in the 84th cycle’s Cup of Harmony group stage, where the Savojars lost 2-3. It was in this tournament that Rune Zackrisson’s short-lived and unfortunate tenure as national coach came to an end.

Vilita, on the other hand, is another story. In the heydays of Vilita in the early 80s, when the team was contesting for the title of the best team in the world, the two shared an unequal rivalry born from ice hockey. Vilita & Turori’s Ice-Cat-Things beat Savojarna in the WCoH 34 final in Sjoedrhavn, taking away the chance of winning the nation’s first international title on home soil, shortly before the two met in the WCQ 79. Both games ended 3-2 for the home team, giving Savojarna a surprising push late in the campaign, before the Northlights won 2-1 away and drew Vilita 1-1 en route to their first ever World Cup in WCQ 80. Their last set of games so far was four years later during the WCQ 82 campaign, when the trio of Savojarna, Abanhfleft and Vilita - all groupmates in WCQ 80 - were drawn together again. At home, the Northlights extended their unbeaten series against the Vilitans with a 0-0 draw, but on the very last matchday, they travelled to the Cove needing a single point to ensure qualification - and lost 0-2. That leaves Savojarna on a neat 2-2-2 record against Vilita, aiming to tilt it back to their side in the upcoming campaign.

From Pot 4, Devonta will look to make an upset happen in what is the two’s first meeting in football, and a must-win game for Savojarna. Past failures to do much in World Cup qualifying have often come from losses to the Pot 4 or 5 teams, making sure the Northlights will be alert for these games against opponents from the lower end of the top 100. 95th placed Lisander from Pot 5 is the only other team in the group that Savojarna have played against so far, although a long time ago. Following WCQ 82, the Northlights beat Lisander 4-1 in the opening group stage game of the Cup of Harmony. None of the teams in Pot 6 and up are known quantities to the Northlights, although there is always a chance one of them will end up being a breakout side. The team will need to be taking every game seriously, but there is a clear focus on the clashes with Vilita and the SRS, hoping to take Savojarna to a third straight World Cup.

Calendar for the Savojar National Team (Group 2)

October: Savojarna (29) vs Sendhang (322)
November: Pluvia and the Saxean Isles (146) vs Savojarna (29) / Savojarna (29) vs Lisander (95)
February: Savojarna (29) vs Hebitaka (127) / Squornshelan Remnant States (60) vs Savojarna (29)
April: Savojarna (29) vs The 14 Stars (UR) / Eshialand (203) vs Savojarna (29)
---
Summer: Copa Rushmori 37
[OOC: From here onwards, Mikaela Rangren will be replaced as head coach by Daniella Strauss (NPH)]
---
September: Savojarna (29) vs Vilita (14) / Devonta (75) vs Savojarna (29)
October: Sendhang (322) vs Savojarna (29) / Savojarna (29) vs Pluvia and the Saxean Isles (146)
November: Lisander (95) vs Savojarna (29) / Hebitaka (127) vs Savojarna (29)
February: Savojarna (29) vs Squornshelan Remnant States (60) / The 14 Stars (UR) vs Savojarna (29)
March: Savojarna (29) vs Eshialand (203) / Vilita (14) vs Savojarna (29)
May: Savojarna (29) vs Devonta (75) / play-offs

Not much is known yet about the team that will be taken into this campaign, and as has commonly been the case during the past qualifiers, we expect a bunch of different players to see call-ups at different stages in the campaign. Of course, the key players remain the old suspects: Zirkova and Forsberg are pretty much set as the starting centre-back duo, Victoria Maersk will remain the central focal point in mid-field (potentially for her last big tournament, as she will be 34 years old at the end of the World Cup), and the winger duo of Voynov/Jashkin is the clear focus of the offence. The larger question marks are on the fullback positions, where there is a certain lack of depth particularly on the right side (the two main backups appear to be Eino Kiivälä and Milla Viipuri, both converted leftbacks); as well as up front where three or four players are battling it out without any outstanding choice. Jacobsen, Nweke and Smolov all have different strengths and weaknesses, probably resulting in the choice being situational depending on the opponent.

What could be more interesting is the look at young talent. Lipa Kuznetsov, recently signed for ESK Storevik after her Rotor Värstjö was relegated at the end of SFS X, has been strong on the first few matchdays of season XI, being instrumental to her team’s spectacular 3-3 at Dynamo Sjoedrhavn in a tight battle with Savigliane’s Giovanna Vitale. With Jashkin firmly in place, she is unlikely to become a starter anytime soon, but may see her first call-up later in the campaign. On the constantly cluttered central midfield positions, Lovisa Tedenby has been handled as a potential follow-up for Maersk for a while, and her move to Pasarga’s Galatica has surely not harmed her chances. On the more defensive position, Markko Niskanen is a counterpart, having developed well at Newrook City in Nephara. Finally, eyes might be put on Dmitri Dmitriev, who has played a very solid season at Admiral Storevik and will try to challenge the duo of Zirkova/Forsberg for a starting position, although he will struggle to break this well-oiled team.

Overall, expectations are high for this qualifier, and after two qualifications in a row this is understandable. Savojarna have finally arrived in the ranks of international football and aim to cement their place in those ranks, but will require a good showing at this tournament to achieve that goal. In this group, with the third seed being among the lower potential ones to have drawn, and with no opposition within the Top 50 other than Vilita, playoffs are expected for these new Northlights, but there is always a lot to happen across eighteen games and almost two years.

Lineup vs. Sendhang: 4-3-3
Starting XI: Pakanen - Kiivälä, Zirkova, Dmitriev, Skov - Niskanen, Maersk © - Lundell - Rajala, Nweke, Jashkin
Bench: Virulainen, Viipuri, Forsberg, Nymark, A. Loeseth, Ilkkanen, V. Loeseth, Poulsen, Voynov, Smolov, Jaerbyn

[The 14 Stars]

Preparing for the match against Eshialand
The 14 Stars 10 - 0 Starsian trial team A
The 14 Stars U19 2- 3 The 14 Stars

Line-up Match 1 The 14 Stars

E. Fisher
D. Hassan
J. Saturn
R. Leon
M. Griffin
T. Rockwell
K. Meyer
B. Müller
Y. Dimitrov
Y. Mustafir
V. Demonio

At last the day was here, the Starsian team would play 2 trial matches to prepare for the Eshialand game, the Starsian trial team consisted of league players that had not been chosen but liked to play this match.
a good 8000 fans came to cheer though it was rather a sort of exhibition match then a real match, The Starsian team leaves a gap in experience and teams with young players like the trial team often feel that.
right after they entered field the Starsian wore the proud blue color while the trial team decided on yellow as their team kit color and soon the kickoff for this match could begin with alot of goals in store.

The Starsian team while being defensive this time did use a more offensive variation on their system and quickly the ball moved up with the duo Rockwell-Meyer being a very physical midfield.
in the 3rd minute the first goal was already there by Mustafir, a beautiful longshot from outside the box out of reach for the keeper and it was 1-0 already for the national team within 5 minutes, the diffrence was quickly noted here.
In 15 minutes after that it was already 6-0 for the national team as the opponent was a new team that never played together and you couldn't expect them to totally play perfectly like that.

In the 2nd half the scoring kept going on, one after the other but in a less fast pace, the defense of the trial team was more organized and their passing was better then the first half which made it more possible to defend correctly.
With the end of the match in sight the last goal was made, after a long and exhausting match Demonio scored the finishing goal with his special signature move which is a 3 man shot known as ''Emperor penguin 2'' and yet again they scored their 10th goal, this was not a fun match but it was good for the training and team spirit.

Line-up Match 2 The 14 Stars

E. Fisher
C. Maywell
J. Saturn
O. Karazhan
M. Griffin
T. Rockwell
K. Meyer
M. Fallsen
R. Carerez
A. Kayden
V. Demonio

As the 2nd match was there this was against a way more serious opponent, it was the Starsian U19 national team which meant the future national team and upcoming talents under the guidance of Kira Blade their captain.
After kickoff the young U19 team quickly combined their passes and surprised the Starsian defence by their quick plays and while the defender tried to organize themselves was it after 28 minutes 0-1 for the U19 team.
Roberto Escobar scored with his special move Atomic Flare, despite the keeper trying to save the shot it was too powerful and hit the back of the net showing the power of the up and coming Starsian players here already.

But that lead did not last for long as even before the end of the first half it was Klaus Meyer with his special move Gunshot that scored the goal for the national team to get them back into the game, it was 1-1 at halftime there.
After the break there was a substitute on the Starsian side, Adam Kayden was coming off and Yusuf Mustafir entered the field and this worked out to be a good decision made by the coach as he scored in 58th minute.
But this lead did not last long as it was nobody less then the captain of U19 and the daughter of the coach of the national team that scored the goal that tied the game once again into 2-2 with her special move death sword.

As the clock went on there was less and less time but in 89th minute there was a counter from the national team, all players moved up and in the end it was Demonio who got the ball after a series of passes, he didn't wait a second and used his combination shot twin boost with Mustafir and scored the winning 3-2 in a thrilling game where both teams went above and beyond themselves.



after the match the team was asked if they were ready for Eshialand, they told us that they will be ready to fight till the end no matter what will happen in the match and they are positive and well prepared.

[Sapim]

Chapter 1

Part 1 Expectations

---

The crowd floods the streets of Sapim to see their nation competing for the elimination of the World Cup 88 This is the country's first participation in an international football competition, Sapim football is the most showy in the continent of the USEA, each game of the national team bicolor galactic ", the fans fill the stadiums all supporting their team for the elimination of the 88 world cup, the friendly matches between Sapim and the nations of the USEA had the stadiums full for the support of their selection. Sapim will want to go with everything at the World Cup and even the Queen of Sapim Isabel I made a statement and talked to the players declaring the support of the people of Sapim and Her Support for their selection for the eliminations of the 88 World Cup.

Part 2 The draw for the World Cup qualifiers

The expectation for the draw for the qualifiers was clear. Sapim stopped to see which group we would fall into and who our opponents would be to try to qualify for the world cup. The draw was received in an assertive manner by the population of Sapim if a very tough eliminator is expected. we fall into group 18 where the selections are Havynwilde,New Lusitania,Netop,Le choixYuezhou,Farfadillis,Arklanda,Tolanka and Equestria. The first game against Equestria will be on May 31 at the Estádio da Paz in Aran at 4,540 km of Gran Rugido (Capital)

The draw for the World Cup qualifiers

Estádio da Paz

[Squidroidia]

Here We Go Again - Inkopolis

"It'sCommentatorman withthemost spectacular highflying IACfinalist nationalteam thenationhaseverseen... The Squidroidia Inklings! Tremendouslymoving, spectacularlyflowing, scoreone or save one, and nowwith a newqualification cycle! The WorldCup88qualifiers, 10 prospecting nations, openinguptoreveal aWorldCup88qualifiersgroup12, worldchampionsNephara andreturningnationSarzonia squareoffwhile CentralShanevilletakeon theUnitedstatesofsonindia, HamptonIsland travelingtoface Togonistan, Quakmybush facingBrookstation, buttheSquidroidiannationalteam openupagainst HuayramarcainInkopolis lookingfor3points- Whew! This matchday has it all-"

The television was shut off by the press of a button by national team manager Adam Johnson. Sitting in his hotel room the day before the match, all he could really think about was this. This was his first qualifiers back as a a manager since leaving the Barunia post, and he would have to do it against a team that nearly qualified for the World Cup in Ethane and Taeshane - Huayamarca. Preparing for the start of qualifiers was the same as he did it in the past IAC - There were no friendly games. Friendly games tiring out members of his squad before a major tournament was the last thing the team needed, and it worked - A couple friendlies could have meant more tired players for the tournament, and perhaps that final run he was in wouldn't have happened after all.

The past 2 opening games of the Qualifiers, under Mito, were losses in the Squidroidian column. The 86 qualifiers opener against Wymondham was something the team wanted to forget - It was a loss that came right after the team's impressive 3rd place finish at the Baptism of Fire, while Wymondham were knocked out in the last 16 of that competition. One cycle later, at the Inkopolis City Stadium no less, Squidroidia were dealt an equally bad hand against Wreckeria, who proved that they belong even through hard times economically. But that was under an old regime, one led by a Squidroidian who, before Sharktail and the Euro Cup and the first IAC miracle run, hadn't managed a nation before. Times had changed. The squads have changed. They were facing a new opponent at their home ground tomorrow. They would eventually have to play the reigning world champions.

Squidroidia were placed in Group 12 for their 3rd qualification cycle and their first under the Adam Johnson regime. Togonistan were a nation that at least some Squidroidians knew about due to Daryl Mizushima's WGPC exploits, besides being unranked themselves and entering their first tournament. The united states of sonindia (The USS to boat enthusiasts) had just come out of the Baptism of Fire, as had Brookstation. Central Shaneville were entering their 2nd World Cup qualifiers, Quakmybush had many more under their belt. Sarzonia returned to the World Cup after skipping the previous tournament in Taeshan and Ethane. Hampton Island were no strangers to qualifying for the World Cup themselves. And then there were the 2 nations that were on everybody's mind heading into tomorrow - Their next opponents, Huayamarca and, almost like a scare to everyone in the group, not just Squidroidia, the defending world champions Nephara. They have made 3 straight World Cup finals and qualified for countless tournaments beforehand. They are 2 time winners of football's greatest prize. Home to one of the best leagues in the world, the Zenith. An Eagle's Club member with an Eagle's Club stadium.

They would have to play them this cycle. Surely there was no way that they were going to beat Nephara, right? I mean, stranger things have happened before. The Cormorants would have to travel to Inkopolis on matchday 6 for their first encounter, Squidroidia's first taste of a championship winning team. But the team was focused on the here and now. For the past 2 cycles they have lost their opening game of the qualifiers. Could this pattern repeat itself? Could Squidroidia once again lose on home soil to kick it off? Huayamarca were a good opponent, not lying about this, so this could get hairy really, really fast...

[Krytenia]

Budget Gets Through After Backroom Horse-Trading
Mark Newton reports from Emberton

Despite having been described as the lamest of ducks in recent weeks, Charles Linton has managed to keep his grip on the reins of government for at least a little longer with the passing of a compromise budget through the Witting. Knowing that failure to pass a working Government budget plan would automatically lead to a General Election the Reform Party seem likely to lose, Linton and Finance Minister Daniel Walsh spent hours on the eve of today's announcement locked in negotiations to the only large group willing to listen to them, namely the Socialists.

Nicole Deschamps' "financial strike team", lead by Osteria North MW Nathan Elphick, managed to gain several concessions in the Government's financial plan, including:

• An increase in top-rate income tax from 33% to 36%. (The base and mid rates remain at 17.5% and 25%, respectively.)
• ₳750m secured for large-scale social housing projects in Avidia, Osteria, Linford, and Leston, providing accommodation for low-income families.
• ₳550m added to the budget for N7 (primary) schools across the country.
• A 3cu reduction in alcohol duty on beverages less than 15% ABV.
• Removal of non-essential sales tax (NEST) duties from workwear, and the expansion of children's clothing exemption from NEST to cover all non-adult sizes rather than just under-fives.

Ms. Deschamps herself called the move "a step in the right direction", whilst lamenting the fact that they were unable to force the Reform contingent to be even more radical. Other parties, however, were less pleased. Conservative Shadow Finance Minister, Emma Buckingham, condemned the budget as a "leftist conspiracy determined to send Krytenia back to the dark ages", warning that the rise in top rate income tax would cause high earners to think twice about investing in the country. The MNP, meanwhile, derided the budget's lack of provision to projects in the south (Leston's social housing aside) and showed that the major parties "just don't care about honest hard-working Mercians". Perhaps the most scathing comment, though, came from Krytenian Democrat leader Thomas Haymer, who claimed that "the Prime Minister is so far in Nicole Deschamps' pocket, he may as well call himself Charles Lint."

With the Socialists propping up the Government, at least in the short term, Mr. Linton has secured at least a modicum of time before he has to face the nation...and the music. Surely, though, this is the Prime Minister circling the drain, and it's only a matter of time until he drops through the grille.

[Hebitaka]

High hopes for the 88th tournament.

Time Surely passes by. And time has finally came, for the Hebitaki to shine again. Nothing much has changed in the team from the past World Cup, with only one difference- the team is more experienced and skilled than the last time around. The team was set in group 17 in the 87th WC Qualifiers. This time it has been placed in group 2. 10 teams per group, just like any other time. But does this experience have no disadvantages to Hebitaka? It does of course. Till the last WC season, we had the newbie advantage. We were nobodies in the football world and everyone's report suggested a similar thing about us- 'Expected victory against Hebitaka'. And that was what we put into our advantage. As everyone thought we were an easy target, they focused more on other games and used rather normal a tactics against us. But amidst of all that, we showed them our power. This attitude of other teams towards Hebitaka helped us to secure a Sixth spot in the group stage. We may not be high level threats like VIlita or the states, but still the teams won't repeat their mistake. They would not take Hebitaka lightly this time. And same goes for us. We, too would not underestimate the teams beneath us. We would give our all for the spot in the World Cup. We might not have a chance, but we are not here to give up.

[Busoga Islands]

Delbin Kasekende Jr. sitting with his behavioral therapist

Kasekende Jr. hated these meetings. But ever since he got into a fistfight outside a nightclub in the middle of the AOCAFs, and got suspended in the midst of a major tournament with the national team, in the very city where he plays his club football. It was a highly publicized incident, and it was a highly embarrassing moment. Compound this with the fact that he's the President's son- not the President of the football association, but the President of the whole damn country- and you could see how this something that needed to be rectified.

Junior had anger management issues as a child. He had, mostly, worked through them towards adulthood. But he had certain things that could trigger a response- and that fight outside the nightclub triggered one. He remembered exactly what his Dad had told him when he got back to Lakiska after Busoga's elimination. "Now they are going to target you on the pitch after this, maybe for the rest of your career." His Dad said. "Players and fans do whatever it takes to try and take a player off their mental edge, and if they know they can get inside your head and set you off, they'll do whatever it takes. You can't have the reputation of a hothead, you've got to handle this."

And since then, he had been seeing a behavioral therapist. He knew the dangers of having a reputation as a hothead. The referees would watch him like a hawk, his opponents would try anything to get a rise out of him, especially as the stakes went up. "Now, you've gotta practice." The therapist said, looking at Junior. He simply nodded. "When someone attacks you verbally- what do you do?"

"Don't try and get even." He said. "Especially on the pitch."

"Yes, you've got it." She smiled. "You can't react violently. What do you do?"

"Breath heavily and walk away." He said. "Do not engage violently, engage verbally only."

"Good!" She said. "Maybe you should've played hockey." He simply looked at her as she chuckled at her own joke. "But that's enough for today." Junior got up, paid, and left. He was going to go join the national team for practices ahead of Matchday 1, where the team would pay a visit to 232nd ranked St Trinians to open World Cup Qualifying. If Busoga wanted a chance in hell of Qualifying, beating those much lower ranked teams would be a prerequisite. Especially with Pasarga coming into town on Matchday 2, a strong start was all the more necessary.

Junior sent a text to his Father. But little did he know, his Father would soon be dealing with much bigger problems...

---

President Delbin Kasekende Sr. sitting with his behavioral therapist

President Delbin Kasekende Sr. knew that he had a blessed life so far. Superstar athlete. Multiple time league champion. National team goalkeeper for two different countries. Played in the World Cup. Became a successful politician in retirement, becoming the Mayor of Busoga's largest city, and using that as a launching pad to become President of the Islamic Republic.

Many would think he had the perfect life. He's had historic accomplishments as President. He's implemented big reforms to more secularize Busoga's society. He's enhanced his own political powers by investing more power into the Executive Branch of Government. He signed a historic normalization treaty with Banija, so that Busoga could finally have legitimate economic and diplomatic relations with their closest neighbor.

He had a great family as well. One loving wife, and two kids- Delbin Kasekende Jr., another superstar athlete, and his daughter, Afifah Kasekende, who was a star student academically, and while not into sports, seemed to be following in his footsteps in politics. What more could a father want- his son pursuing his athletic career while his daughter pursued his political career?

Like any politician, there were skeletons in his closet. Mostly minor- many of those had come out during his Presidential campaign, and as expected, didn't do much to dent his campaign. Parking and traffic tickets. Late library books. You know, all small things that would never really hurt a grown candidate. Soaring on his high approval ratings, he knew that re-election in 18 months time was going to essentially be a cinch. What could his opponents attack him over?

Just then, he looked down at his phone, and saw a text from his son. Just as he was about to type a reply, the phone number that popped up on the screen as an incoming call nearly made him drop his phone. It was a number he hadn't seen in a long time- but he knew that the person on the other side of the number, while nobody knew her name, would be the only who could ruin the good thing he had going politically.

He gulped, and answered the phone. "Hello, Mr. President."

[Bollonich]

Vreton City Journal

The Silence Before the Storm

There hasn’t been much silence ahead of the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers, especially with the Bollonischian National Team playing a large number of friendlies before the start of the qualifications. During the process of the friendlies the new John Lennon Stadium was also opened to the public located in Vreton City. Bollonich first faced a team they shall be facing in their group stage again, Sylestone. The results were as follows:-
Sylestone 2 - 1 Bollonich
Bollonich 1 - 2 Sylestone
The first home game played in the John Lennon stadium was against the team of Sylestone. The match was closely contested but Sylestone eventually came out as winners with a score of 2-1. It was also the same result that was seen in the opposite fixture, when the Bollonischians travelled to Sylestone and played in their Bay Reserve located in Betham. The results were encouraging for the Tigers as putting up such a good performance against a highly ranked team is something to be proud of.
The next set of friendlies were against Sannyamathland another ranked team, however against this team The Tigers put up a tremendous performance beating them 1-0 at their own homegraound. The home fixture was however slightly more competitive with The Tigers closely losing out to them 3-2. The away performance is witness to what the team is capable of, which is again a highly encouraging performance.
The last friendlies played by Bollonich, were against Brookstation, Bollonich’s regional neighbour and BoF Round of 16 position holder. The matches featured a number of goals with Bollonich winning their first match in the John Lennon Stadium with a score of 3-2. The excitement to be playing international football could be greatly seen in our players as they also put in a great performance away from home but falling short by a small margin. The scoreline in the end was 2-3 for a Brookstation win.
The friendlies served as a way to the Tigers for the stiff competition they are to face in the World Cup qualifications. The friendlies provided a chance to see how the team would fare in the WCQ.
Speaking about the WCQ let’s look at the group Bollonich has been placed in. Bollonich has been placed in Group 6 with prominent teams like Sylestone, Tequilo, Rangers FC and Zwangzug. Most teams IN Bollonich’s group are ranked higher than the Tigers. However the Tigers can pose great threats to some teams, especially arriving with a young and ambitious team. It will be interesting to see how far this young Tigers team performs on a huge stage like the WCQs.

[Starblaydia]

Simeone Di Bradini walked through the corridors of the Starblaydi Football Association as the soft plush carpet happily cushioned his shoes and muffled the sound of his footsteps. Earlier, on the marble flooring of the reception area, the heels of his shoes had clicked and clacked their way across the floor to announce his presence in the wide, echoing chamber. All heads had turned, all eyes had looked up and all tongues had started wagging, the murmurs adding to the background noise of the building entrance that suddenly he had become the focus of.

He didn't mind being the focus of attention, usually. It was something he had gotten used to throughout his life; both the original, normal part of it and the unnaturally long 'after'-life he was presently living. This time, however, he had felt a marked difference in the atmosphere. A kind of hesitant expectancy - one that wasn't usually present - permeated the room. If he had to relate it to anything he'd experienced before, Simeone would have said it was a bit like when people were hoping their saviour had arrived, something he'd seen and been the object of too many times already. Whether he'd come with a sword in his hand, a laser pistol, a football or a briefcase, it was that same look in the eyes of the people he passed, the same barely-hidden desperation that he might possibly be the one to relieve.

It was obvious what they wanted.

The marketing campaign #wewantsix was fading, quite literally in some places, as the dust gathered on the metallic sign behind the front desk, and the sun-faded ink of the brochures on the desks and tables that had neither been reprinted or replaced. This could have been from anywhere in the last ten World Cups. Forty years, if you counted it that way, although Simeone could have sworn it wasn't more than four, but then again his sense of time was always screwed up compared to pretty much everyone else. When Tororin Halatyrion - or, rather, his social media team - had sent that declaration out for the entire world to see it was a rallying call for all Starblaydi involved in football to reach the heights they had previously known so, so long ago. The multiverse would step up and take notice that the sleeping giants in their white and purple shirts were about to reawaken and set the competition to rights about who really did belong at the top. Energy, effort, commitment, vigour and drive were thrust back into the Starblaydi Football Association, as Starblaydia began to once again qualify for the World Cup with the frightening regularity of a footballing superpower once more. They reached the final of every major competition going, winning an AOCAF Cup and a youth tournament in what was considered to be the dress rehearsals for taking the ultimate and most coveted prize of all: the World Cup itself. But it was not to be.

World Cup 83 saw Starblaydia's team, perhaps the greatest they had ever assembled since the glory days of the mid-40s or the late 20s, fall at the final hurdle to Equestria. It was a blow that the country had never quite gotten over, having not reached beyond the Quarter-Final stage since. That fantastic starting eleven, even with the likes of Cosmo Leopoldi, Calindra Apelles, Viola Capodanno and Sutter McCloud, would eventually break up and be replaced by newer players, all with hunger in their eyes but seemingly without the true desire in their hearts. Sure, they won the most prestigious regional tournament, Atlantian Oceania's own championship, three cycles ago and put to rest some the demons of Canterlot, but where was the passion since? 84: losing to Vilita, 85: out by Baker Park, 86: eliminated by Nephara, 87: KO'd by The Holy Empire. Starblaydia were in fine company, certainly, and the right company too, but without ever quite managing to take hold of the tournament by the scruff of its neck and put their claim down to being the best side in the world. They'd been deserving of their seat at the top table, certainly, and being among the ten highest ranked nations in the game did not come easily, or quickly. There were over three hundred other names who would kill to be in that position, but for a team with thirteen major championships to their name it was an increasingly hollow achievement. Starblaydia didn't need a sixth World Championship to prove that they were better than Valanora, more creative than Vilita or more corporeal than The Holy Empire.

Starblaydia need a sixth World Championship to prove they still exist.

The executive assistant nodded at him, gesturing to the door. It was thick and old, with a shining bronze name plate on the door. Ázëwyn Fëanáro, Manager. Simeone knocked twice smartly with the knuckles of his right hand, opened the door and stepped through into one of the largest offices he had ever seen. Big enough to take a full team photo in, in case that was ever required, opulently decorated with trophies, photographs and original art pieces that were just the correct side of arrogantly gaudy - but only just. Even for Simeone's taste in style, which had been subtly modified by centuries of living among huge golden domed towers encrusted with jewels, it was a little too much. Framing it all were the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows at the far end of this cavernous room; as his eyes adjusted to the natural light outside, he began to see the fantastic view that this office had over the heart of downtown Jhanna, Starblaydia's capital city. There were beautiful skyscrapers, parks, lakes and rivers, shops and malls, little boutique eateries with people eating outside, shaded by the huge parasols with all the company branding; you could see it all, and it was lovely. Standing in the middle of it, so close to the middle as to have been precisely picked on purpose, was the tall, slender figure of Ázëwyn Fëanáro. Hands on hips, elbows out, she was staring straight out of the window. Simeone closed the door softly behind him, and took a few steps into the room. He was flanked by World and AOCAF Cup trophies, the real ones, with the unmistakable glint of pure gold under the lights.

"Short press conference for the team announcement," he said, sounding slightly more nervous than he felt - which, oddly, was in fact 'slightly'. He didn't even know why. He'd known Ázëwyn for so long and under such odd circumstances that it might as well be forever. They had fought wars side by side, gone on what could conceivably be termed to outside and uninterested observers as 'dates' together, and even managed to kick a football around on the same bit of grass once in a while. Weirdly, the pause between them was long enough for Simeone to fully consider and relive all of these things in his mind before he got a response.

"Mm-hmm."

Simeone considered the response for a moment, then took two full, slow steps forward on the deep purple carpet, hesitantly coming to a halt on a third. Ázëwyn hadn't moved a muscle, it seemed, and his eyes were still being assailed by the huge bright sky, so much that he wondered how she was managing to stand it unblinking for so long. Simeone didn't know what to say to her, which was not uncommon for him in their interactions. She was so damn clever, and other than from his movement and occasionally passing on the football pitch, that was not an adjective that had ever seriously or appropriately been applied to him.

"Apparently one of your answers was word-for-word what you said as an answer in your press conference for eighty-five..."

Simeone actively winced as he bailed out of wherever that sentence had been going. It had seemed, at the beginning, that it was a light-heated little ice-breaker that could easily lead to a break in tension but quickly he had calculated that it was perhaps the worst thing he could have possibly introduced to the conversation using just words alone.

"It's still true," Ázëwyn said, shifting her hands from her hips and folding her arms across her chest, but never taking her gaze from the window, "applies now as it did then."

"Yeah, I figured," Simeone looked down at his feet, noticing how nicely the shine of his shoes was reflecting the windows, "but, um, if you wanted, or could do with, any help or anything, I just wanted to you know that I'm, y'know, here and willing to do what I can to help you, because I'm, y'know, here to help you be happy and content and all those good things because you deserve it, and it can get real tough or lonely or whatever when you're in charge up here, and I know that feeling, so there's some support here, at least it's my support, however useful that is for you..."

This was another one of those run-on sentences where Simeone didn't know where he was going at the start, and still had no idea as he trailed off at the end. Usually they ended really badly, and occasionally the reaction to them was not-terrible. This time, it seemed there was actually no reaction whatsoever, a thought which chilled Simeone deep to his core. His brain ran away with his thoughts and the consequences of his inelegant words and he took an almost involuntary step backwards.

"I'll, uh, let you get on," he said, retreating slowly backwards towards the door, "you, uh, call me if you need anything."

There was a long silence as Simeone exited and shut the door softly behind him, easing the click of the latch to a gentle click in the mechanism. The Manager's executive assistant caught his eye to send him on his way with a cheery goodbye, but quickly saw the crestfallen look on his face and thought better of it, forcing a tight smile at him instead. Through it all, he never saw the look on Ázëwyn's face. He never saw the tremble of her lower lip, the tightness around her eyes or the tear streaming down her cheek, and he never heard the warmth in the words she spoke softly, having to force them, wavering, from tightly-pressed together lips.

"Thank you."

[South Covello]

South Covello National Team Unveils Numerous Team Sponsorships for World Cup 88

The South Covello National Team unveiled numerous team sponsorships for World Cup 88, much to the chagrin of fans who were already fed up with the sponsoring of the stadium. Many of the sponsors are unique, others are weird. One fan called it "a new corporate hellhole" and others were displeased as well.

The Clog Slayer will be the official plumber of the South Covello national team. Fans who accidentally clog a toilet in SuperNerd Wants to Fight Videogame and Computer Store Stadium can text DECLOG and the location of the toilet to 272272 from anywhere inside the stadium and The Clog Slayer will be immediately dispatched to clog it free of charge. Offer is not valid on sentient toilets, so the Sylestone team should take note if they come here. South Covello's national team was even represented by The Clog Slayer's mascot at the World Cup Qualifying draw. The mascot is appropriately named The Clog Slayer and carries a giant plunger that resembles a rifle in shape and color only with the plunger thing on the end.

The 37th minute of every South Covello soccer match, home and away, will be the SuperMegaChicken Minute in honor of SuperMegaChicken's famous 37 dipping sauces. If South Covello scores a goal in the 37th minute, everyone in South Covello will receive their choice of a free six piece tenders or free 12 piece nuggets at any SuperMegaChicken the very next day. As always, they can choose as many of the 37 dipping sauces as they want.

The 40th minute of every South Covello soccer match will be sponsored by Pizza Papi's in honor of their guarantee that they get you their pizza within 40 minutes or it's free. If South Covello scores a goal in the 40th minute of any match, Pizza Papi's will give everyone in South Covello 40% off their order the next day. Of course, it will be 100% off if they fail to deliver it within 40 minutes per their normal guarantee.

The Bellywubbies will be the official pregame mascots of the South Covello national team, performing their song and dance before every home game and telling the kids to watch them on TV later as well. The Bellywubbies are the most obnoxious children's show in existence so naturally a lot of people are very unhappy about this, especially parents who have to sit through the show every day with their little twerps and also fans with no children who now have to deal with the little twerps cheering for the Bellywubbies at the game.

Pee-Mobile will be the official cellphone provider of the national team. However, the National Communications Bureau nixed a plan that would have jammed cell phone signals from other carriers as part of the deal and fined Pee-Mobile 100 million liberos for even suggesting it, claiming it "violated numerous communications laws and all public decency." It was the largest fine the NCB ever handed down to a cell phone provider.

El Superpicante will be the official hot sauce of the national team. Every concession stand at SuperNerd Wants to Fight Videogame and Computer Store Stadium will have bottles of El Superpicante's red and green sauce. While this might be a good idea at the taco stand and the burger stand and arguably even the pretzel and pizza stands, it really doesn't make much sense at the ice cream stand. Nonetheless, that is what they will be doing as part of the deal. El Superpicante was recently rated the number one hot sauce in South Covello by Hot Sauce Magazine, so unlike the other sponsors, this one at least seems like a good one that isn't obnoxious. It remains to be seen how many fans will put hot sauce on their ice cream, however.

Cocoabo will be the official dessert and chocolatey drink company of the national team. Every time South Covello wins a match, the Man of the Match will be doused in Cocoabo's legendary chocolate syrup goodness. This may even happen if the team gets a significant draw, depending on the circumstances. The team hopes to make this a time-honored tradition from the legendary Cocoabo is Go(o)d Company. Additionally, if South Covello wins and scores three goals or more, everyone in South Covello will get a free drink at any Cocoabo in the country the very next day. Like Superpicante, Cocoabo is much beloved in South Covello and most fans will not be particularly upset about this.

Finally, in the most beloved sponsorship deal the team has ever done, one that will make all the terrible sponsorship deals melt away into the goodness of good, Goat Ciips will be the official grounds crew and landscaping company at SuperNerd Wants to Fight Videogame and Computer Store Stadium. The stadium grass and all landscaping will be tended to by goats, who will munch happily on the grass and landscaping to trim it. It is called goatscaping and Goat Clips is one of the most beloved countries in South Covello for this very reason. Fans are even invited to turn up on days off or early in the morning on matchdays to watch the goats happily trim the grass. It is an environmentally friendly and animal friendly solution beloved by all except Banijans. In the event Banija travels to South Covello, it should be interesting to see how they treat the goats. The owner of Goat Clips has made crystal clear he will press charges against anyone who attacks one of his majestic creatures, certainly of a Banijan player, coach, or fan tried to kill and eat one, they would be looking at a lengthy prison sentence.

[Togonistan]

World Cup 88 - Is there any hope for Togonistan?


Tushlark Superstars defender Luca Faleta continues as captain for Togonistan national team

It's that time of the year again. World Cup 88 qualifiers are knocking on the door as the teams from a total of 180 nations prepare to fight for the right to be amongst the few getting a ticket to Cassadaigua or Chromatika. TNFA made the headlines a few months ago as they announced the Togonistani return to World Cup. While the domestic club football scene is going strong as usual, the Togonistani national team has been in the shadows over the recent years with many long-time veterans such as Bennet Van Dien and Greg Kanufatu announcing their retirement from the national team and shifting their focus solely on club football.

With the times Togonistan has participated in the World Cup being few and far between, the team has rarely seen any success in the international competitions and the national team's few attempts have always been put to an end in the qualifying stages. Togonistan's last appearance in World Cup 84 saw the island nation ending up 9th out of 11 in their group, after which the team has been barely existing in the eyes of the fans as it hasn't appeared in any major competitions for the past 3 editions, resulting in losing their spot in the world ranking table.

A small flash of hope started appearing last year, when Toma Maiava was announced as the new head coach for Togonistani national team. The arrival of a new coach has also brought some new faces in the ranks of Togonistani team, with young striker Keyn Menetua, defenders Tim Sapani and Martin Tufele as well as goalkeepers Ian Huriata and Eli Baxter-Latuna making their World Cup debut this edition. According to Maiava, a lot of work has been done in order to patch up the holes left by retiring players and bring the team back to life from the shadows.

Despite a few changes in players, Maiava can't see any big changes in general team tactics happening any time soon. That is also reflected in the squad announced for the World Cup, with a majority of line-up consisting of defenders and defensive midfielders. According to experts, Togonistan can be expected to stay true to their 5-3-2 formation and defensive football handwriting, mostly relying on scoring opportunities coming from counter attacks.

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Group 12
Brookstation
Central Shaneville
Squidroidia
Nephara
Togonistan
Hampton Island
Sarzonia
Huayramarca
The united states of sonindia
Quakmybush

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Togonistan will be facing tough competition after being drawn into qualifying group 12, along with reigning champions Nephara. Being arguably the weakest team in the group, hardly anyone is expecting the Yellow Warriors to make a big impact here, which can also be seen with odds on various sports betting sites being heavily stacked against them. UltraBet puts Togonistan with the odds to qualify for the cup 800/1 at the bottom amongst all the 180 teams, above only Himebaugh and Wight. Nevertheless, the overall atmosphere amongst fans seems to be widely positive, with various internet boards being excited about the national team's return to World Cup and support armies are already rallying up to support the home team. At the end of the day, it's all about the beauty of the game.

With World Cup knocking on the door, all Togonistani qualifying matches will be broadcast on Ultrasports 1, as well as the the rest of the competition, regardless of how it will go for the Yellow Warriors.

READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS:
WC88 Pre-match analysis: Togonistan vs Hampton Island
Hwoarang Shoguns beats Falunholm FF 2-0 in a friendly match
Vavau missing World Cup due to injury

[Zwangzug]

The Spenson Star

"Full of ****": Spencer walks back off-color remarks

Federation bureaucrat Ashley Spencer was quick to issue an apology for her "ill-considered and intemperate language" in describing Zwangzug's Group 6 draw as "****." "While I wished to express our admiration for both the deep quality of the competition and pay tribute to the inimitable Sylestone manager, I realize that this word choice may have given offense to others. Such a lapse was, frankly, beneath me."

The draw itself was relatively sedate by the standards of multiversal sporting gatherings; Kate DiMarini, the head coach, seems to have assimilated enough to quip quietly at the other delegates' hijinks. DiMarini, a Baker Park native, wisely decided that giving specific commentary on the draw would perhaps be detrimental to considerations of international autonomy. Spencer, however, had no such qualms, quickly declaring the prospect of facing such sides as Trolleborg, Tequilo, and Sylestone "a lot of bull, and not in the fun Audioslavian way either."

Zwangzug open the qualifiers against Rangers FC, and will face second seeds Trolleborg at the Eagles Club in Forbridge. Trolleborg, of course, won the Baptism of Fire five cycles ago after playing their group matches in Zwangzug, and have since become a force in their own right, qualifying for the last two World Cups. The Bollonich Tigers will be the guests when 102d hosts its first home qualifier in six cycles. The second half sees a heavier home schedule, with former "Unofficial World Champions" Al Qurija visiting Canbix on Matchday Twelve. Tequilo will visit Arlington on Matchday Sixteen. Local fans, when they're not busy revelling in their domestic success, have expressed mixed reactions to this prospect; while a few Collective diehards plan to protest some historical events perpetrated by Tequiloan client states, others are enthusiastic about the prospect of a football-themed film festival. Sylestone, and their surprising selection of steadfast Sentients, will visit Wayr Stadium for the final matchday.

"Look, it's a matter of pace, innit," encapsulated Spencer. "We don't want to take things too fast or too slow. If the players exercise themselves and show moral fiber then it's all to the good, but otherwise, we could be in a situation where the World Cup Committee would have to void some of our results. And that would be very painful." Spencer refused to confirm whether former Keppal Cosmos midfielder, and notable nutritional advocate, Satenik Banach would return to the national team to provide advice.

As the lowest top seed, only retaining that status due to the Mriin federation's isolationism and the hosts qualifying automatically, Zwangzug remain unfavored in the Jarongi WCQ fantasy game. While other groups demonstrate similar lopsidedness among bookies, group 6 is unique in that no one so far has invested valuable KPB points in either of the two top seeds; Trolleborg are only 2.12 points behind Zwangzug in the rankings, and should push them hard.

"You know what they say, there's a lot of luck in the game," Spencer reminded reporters. "At the end of the day, it's kind of a bleepshoot."

***

Research on the Silicon Boot continues intermittently. We don't have as many additions to add as last time, but please congratulate Lothas Ludwig of Valanora and his six goals for leading the way in World Cup 87. Our retroactive honorees are:

72. Craig Sinclair (Eura); 6 goals
73. Rodolfo Zelaya (San José Guayabal); 8 goals
74. Rodolfo Zelaya (San José Guayabal); 8 goals

***

World Cup 87 saw Kate DiMarini inherit a roster Brandon Sonnabend had forged. While her achievements in righting the ship and sailing through the playoffs should not be dismissed, the fact remains that Eagles Cup 10 was the first time she had a chance to put her own imprint on the roster, with these qualifiers a close second. While nothing drastic has changed, the newcomers' diverse backgrounds suggest that DiMarini has kept an open mind looking for talent--in Zwangzug and beyond.

First and foremost, of course, is Kayla Haugen from Trebuchet Cham. Called up to the bench in the Eagles Cup, she had a short stint on the bench, behind alongside longtime national team and Cham midfielder Edwin Cherenkov-Nguyen. With the latter retiring, Haugen moves on up into the starting eleven. Was the Eagles Cup a chance for her to get her feet wet, or DiMarini making sure her former domestic side is well-represented at all times? Maybe a little of each.

Jesse McWhorter, from Ephesian FC, is new on the bench as of the Eagles Cup. Keen 1./ fans may recall his brother, Samuel McWhorter, as a former Rovers United midfielder who was forced to retire due to respiratory illness contracted during the Wayr Stadium incident. Jesse was a lackadaisical defender for Orling College at the time, but it seems to have, if not inspired, renewed his resolve to up his game. The two things an Ephesian FC defender needs are tireless hustle and a willingness to jaw at the referee about how come on, that was never a penalty, and the new-look McWhorter has these in spades.

Corey Richardson, for his part, can boast a university championship with Erewhon University. While obviously talented, he can be restless and prone to insecurity about his athleticism. (Thank goodness he's just a midfielder.) Anyway, since his transfer to Advance Alara, he's been recognized for his success in the Ko-oren league. Hopefully this new opportunity will be a source of pride rather than nerves.

Aimee Ginoud-Sachs is the first Twineur Bug to wear the national colors since the "third-generation team" returned to WCC play in World Cup 80, and like her domestic teammates, she doesn't lack for pace in midfield. Helen Pimbura is affectionately known as "the snake" to Canbix fans; she can make it look easy, basking in the sun (or lights, whatever), before suddenly lunging and diving for shots. After a disappointing season for Spenson Suburbia, Itzhak Canterbury's national team career appears to be at an end.

Sophie Munshi's, in contrast, is alive and well; she is the only member of the World Cup 83 side back for a fifth cycle, but apparently her performances with the Mierton Manatees have been too impressive to overlook. Not only that, but she's been named the captain, a rare honor in recent times for a player who's left the 1./. Will DiMarini's faith in her be justified? There's only one way to find out.