Baptism of Fire 78

by **StrayaRoos Barrier Islands** » Tue Apr 19, 2022 10:52 pm

in StrayaRoos Barrier Islands a revolutionary Football Competition has been launched Named the SBI Emu League,it features 7 teams. Made out of 7 emus each who play each other 4 times in a season for a spot in the Roosian Super Series (A International Knockout Cup between StrayaRoos' and SBI's top teams) The 7 teams are:God Emu Team,Bad Emu Team,Mrrpers,Cavalier Emus,Duomji United Emus,Emu FC and StrayaRoos Emus and here are the first Seven Matchdays

All games at UwU Stadium,Cow Village,Duomji,SBI

MD1
Cavalier Emus 0–2 StrayaRoos Emus
Duomji United Emus 4–1 Mrrpers
Emu FC 1–8 God Emu Team

MD2
Mrrpers 2–1 Emu FC
StrayaRoos Emus 1–0 Duomji United Emus
Bad Emu Team 2–1 Cavalier Emus

MD3
Duomji United Emus 1–0 Bad Emu Team
Emu FC 2–0 StrayaRoos Emus
God Emu Team 4–0 Mrrpers

MD4
StrayaRoos Emus 0–3 God Emu Team
Bad Emu Team 1–4 Emu FC
Cavalier Emus 3–1 Duomji United Emus

MD5
Emu FC 4–1 Cavalier Emus
God Emu Team 2–0 Bad Emu Team
Mrrpers 3–1 StrayaRoos Emus

MD6
Bad Emu Team 1–3 Mrrpers
Cavalier Emus 0–2 God Emu Team
Duomji United Emus 1–0 Emu FC

MD7
God Emu Team 5–0 Duomji United Emus
Mrrpers 1–1 Cavalier Emus
StrayaRoos Emus 1–0 Bad Emu Team

End Week 1 Table

* Emu League            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 God Emu Team            6    6   0   0    24    1  +23    18
2 Mrrpers                 6    3   1   2    10   12   −2    10
3 Emu FC                  6    3   0   3    12   13   −1     9
4 Duomji United Emus      6    3   0   3     7   10   −3     9
5 StrayaRoos Emus         6    3   0   3     5    8   −3     9
6 Cavalier Emus           6    1   1   4     6   12   −6     4
7 Bad Emu Team            6    1   0   5     4   12   −8     3

oh dear,it seems that God Emu Team are superior to the rest of the league,let's see if they can stay there

by **Forbidden Territories** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 1:12 am

FORBIDDEN TERRITORIES NATIONAL TEAM

Trigramme : FTS
Coach: Matt Ress
Sponsors: Motorade
Nickname: Forthers
Species:Homo Sapiens
Region: The South Pacific

Home Stadium: Watersport Sphere, Tigres
Home Kit Colour:Blue and Yellow
Away Kit Colour:Ultramarine and Black

Style : - 4.00 ( extremely defensive )

GK

1 Shane Rodriguez ( 25)
4 Shaun Mansey ( 31)
7 Kim tae hoo ( 29)

Defense

CB 12 Alan Shephard ( 32)
CB 14 Klein Harowitz ( 29)
CB 18 Kael Molluwac ( 28)
CB 29 Chris Brayden (31)
LB 25 Rory Stones ( 27)
LB 34 Livac Ibrahimovic ( 34)
LB 35 Chen Huefang ( 33)
RB 21 Mandrake Manson ( 29)
RB 26 Robert Pattinson ( 31)

Midfield

CM 38 Herman Miller ( 27)
CM 39 Marcus Cross ( 23)
CM 32 Larry Stevens (20)
CM 41 Albert hendrickson (25)
LM 40 David Cross ( 22)
LM 49 Tim Marshworth ( 30)
LM 31 Xi Laofing ( 29)
RM 55 Marcelinho ( 31)
RM Hauĺo Mendez

Attacking

CF 54 Alex Knott ( 33)
CF 56 Alberto Sanchez (24)
CF 57 Olbert Scheilz ( 24)
LW 44 Sun Yun Teoun ( 29)
LW 43 Marc Rushinburg ( 27)
RW 62 Jonathan Wood ( 34)
RW 60 Mohammed Rafique ( 28)

* Bold are in Starting Lineup
Starting Lineup

1.GK 1 Shane Rodriguez ( 25)
2.CB 12 Alan Shephard ( 32)
3.CB 14 Klein Harowitz ( 29)
4.LB 35 Chen Huefang ( 33)
5.RB 26 Robert Pattinson ( 31)
6.CM 38 Herman Miller ( 27)
7.CM 39 Marcus Cross ( 30)
8.LM 40 David Cross ( 32)
9.RM 55 Marcelinho ( 31)
10.CF 54 Alex Knott ( 23)
11.CF 56 Alberto Sanchez (24)

Formation : 4 - 4 - 2 ( default) or 4 - 2 - 3 - 1
Perfected during the Golden Age of Football, this technique is best known for gritty defending, and is perfect for excellent counter attacking measures.It was seen in measure by coach Matt Ress during the games against Quintessence of Dust, Muralos where the team won thanks to their good defensive display. However, it is also disadvantageous against teams using similar strategy , and teams playing possesive football. Due to their being two strikers, it is much more difficult to create scoring chances from aggressive gameplay as one gets outnumbered and flanked in the midfield . It was seen during the match against Strayaroos Barrier where after half time, Forthers were trailing by 2. It was due to a miraculous hat- trick by Alberto Sanchez that the game was won. After the failure agajnst Muralos and Squidroidia, Matt Ress switched to a much more modern 4 - 2 - 3 - 1 formation, but as it was never attempted before (FTS was a much more orthodox footballing nation), there were various issues that propped out such as overfatigue,exertion and discoordination from the players who had little chemistry among them. After that match, The Forthers have tried experimenting with various different formations alongside the de facto and the new one. The best lineups found were
1.4- 4 - 2
2. 4 - 2 - 3 - 1
3.4 - 3 -3
4.3 - 4 - 2 -1

Fans: The fans are known to don the usual blue and yellow jersey, occasionally the less popular ultramarine. Forther'shave a huge fanbase across the nation. It has been growing ever since their exploits in IAC and the recently created League. The fanfare was at it's peak in the Pre Isolationist age, however after the Korpskii scandal, it began to die down. Fans however have regained confidence in the team after the new election, in which it was explicitly stated that football would be back after hiatus. Forther fans are generally known for supporting their team throughout the game whetehr they win or lose. However they will be vitriolic if the team loses by a wide margin. They aren't aggressive but will chant and cheer the team when they are in possesion. They are known to celebrate when their team wins with fireworks wherever they go, and this might have resulted in some stray fires, which were put down after some time.

Captain: Alex Knott
Top Goalscorer: Alberto Sanchez
Most likely to get a foul:Herman Miller

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: Y
Choose my goalscorers: Y
Godmod scoring events: Y
RP injuries to my players: Y ( minor, not severe or career threatening)
Godmod injuries to my players: Y ( same as above)
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Y
Hand out red cards to my players: Y ( 2 atmost in a match)
Godmod other events: Y

by **Kuraita** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 4:09 am

Kuraitan National Football Association Selection

RP Permissions

My opponent, shall they RP first, have permission to…
Choose goalscorers: Y
Godmod Scoring: Y*
Injure players: Y - I determine length and severity
Godmod Injuries: N
Hand out yellow cards: Y (roughly proportionate with your own team)
Hand out red cards: Y (not more than one)
Godmod other events: Y*

*: Godmods are accepted only if they are unlikely, but possible actions. Rule of thumb: if you’ve seen it happen in an RL football game, I’m fine with it. If you’re unsure, please TG me or DM me on Discord.

TEAM INFO

Squad Overview

Coach: Eriks Liepinš (45)

Nr	Pos	Name                	Club                 	Age
1	GK	Mihals Kalninš   	Arcjugas FK Lauvas	31
2	LB	Stanislas Żukauskas	Krustojnis SK     	25
3	CB	Matejs Ozolinš   	Arcjugas FK Lauvas	27
4	CB	Darius Stirs       	FK Valtspils       	24
5	RB	Audris Legrants 	FK Auksturts      	23
6	DM	Andras Varnis    	FK Arcjuga        	25
7	LF/ST	Jonas Adomaitis        	Arcjugas FK Lauvas	26
8	CM	Lauris Indrašis   	FK Valtspils       	22
9	ST	Domantas Vaskevičius	FK Arcjuga        	28
10	OM	Mantas Urbauskas	Arcjugas FK Lauvas	29
11	ST	Lajals Vilks       	Krustojnis SK     	25
12	GK	Vytautas Paritis	FK Arcjuga        	25
13	CB	Brais Koverlis    	Arcjugas FK Lauvas	22
14	CB	Ivars Jonaitis     	FK Arcjuga        	24
15	CB	Miks Fjelgrens   	Krustojnis SK     	27
16	CM	Mindaugas Gazolinš	Żalbaltas Aziklirins	22
17	ST	Magnus Livs       	FK Auksturts      	23
18	CM	Aleks Čenins      	FK Ronisala       	21
19	LM	Arturs Berlinš    	Żalbaltas Aziklirins	24
20	OM	Romanas Rosadas      	Jursturts NSK "Vytis"	20
21	RM	Zemgus Baltas   	Arcjugas FK Lauvas    	25
22	RB	Żaks Silveins     	FK Makospils     	23
23	GK	Kaspars Żalgiris	Żalbaltas Aziklirins	20

Playstyle

Style Mod: +1

Kuraita typically line up in a 3-4-1-2, with the choice of wide players depending on their opposition. Against more neutral to defensive opponents, the left side usually features an offensive player in Adomaitis and the right side a wingback in Legrants or Silveins; against an offensive side (roughly +2.5 and up) they will prefer Żukauskas on the left side and play Adomaitis as a striker. In the back, all three members are centre-backs and play as such; in midfield, they usually opt for a holding and a shuttling midfielder, although all central midfielders are somewhat versatile. Players in general are physically strong and athletic, and tend to work a lot and be competent at helping out on both sides of the pitch.
With the ball, the players on the side sometimes push up to the height of the offensive midfielder depending on the space they are given; all wingers and wingbacks are also very adept at changing directions fast and looking for counters. The playmaker usually stays in the middle of the pitch and looks for options, with the strikers lurking near the goal for the most part.
Without the ball, Kuraita’s wingbacks fall back and operate as a line of five defenders together with the CB’s, although the wingers and wide midfielders can remain a bit more offensive at times. The strikers can press, but the offensive midfielder tends to take a more passive role and falls back into the central midfield. Their defence is somewhat passive, but tries to keep the opponent away from the goal by pushing them away from the box and closing down the centre of the pitch with three central midfielders.

Player roles

Captain
Domantas Vaskevičius ⇒ Jonas Adomaitis ⇒ Mantas Urbauskas ⇒ Mihals Kalninš
Penalty takers (both ingame and shootouts)
Vaskevičius - Urbauskas - Adomaitis - Vilks - Varnis - Livs - Indrašis (in shootouts: continue from most to least offensive position)
Free kicks (direct)
Adomaitis (left, centre), Urbauskas (right), Vilks (backup)
Free kicks (long)
Adomaitis, Indrašis
Corners
Adomaitis
Goalkeeper hierarchy
Kalninš ⇒ Paritis ⇒ Żalgiris

Who is most likely to…

…be Kuraita’s best goal scorer?
Vaskevičius is a cold poacher who will create chances from anything that falls into the box. However, playing as an inverted winger who has a sheer unstoppable drive to the goal and a penchant for free kicks, Adomaitis might rival him.

…end up suspended?
As the man in the centre of the back three and a hulking, massive presence, Darius Stirs has a certain penchant for picking up stray yellow cards to problematic extents. Stanislas Żukauskas, on the other hand, balances his competitive excellence with a short fuse and might pick up a stupid red card outside the game if provoked or frustrated.

…score the goal of the tournament?
The star, the man, the technician, Jonas Adomaitis - and he’ll follow it up with a viral celebration too, probably. Lajals Vilks is a secondary guess, a technical and agile striker with the potential to shine.

…be Kuraita’s breakout star?
In a young team, there are multiple candidates, but the one to watch is probably Lauris Indrašis, a tireless and technically competent central midfielder. More in the background for now are Romanas Rosadas, a gifted but physically limited playmaker, and the relentless shuttler Čenins who made himself the star of FK Ronisala last season.

…attract legions of fangirls?
Audris Legrants doesn’t need to attract them, he already has them. A dashing character with remarkable flowing hair, he has been described by Kuraitan media as “having stepped out of the pages of a 19th century romantic novel onto a football pitch”. And if men with muscles befitting a Greek statue are more your thing, look no further than Andras Varnis.

…double his followers on social media?
That depends on the kind of content you like. Ivars Jonaitis and his FK Arcjuga teammate Vytautas Paritis are known for comedic short videos about their lives as footballers. Miks Fjelgrens is known for his open demeanor online and his photography hobby caught on in Kuraita. Finally, Żaks Silveins’ twii.tur is considered mandatory following for Kuraitan sports journalists thanks to his tendency to stir up controversy over basically anything.

…break curfew and play hungover?
Kuraitans are generally never opposed to some drunken fun, but some are pushing it a bit. Brais Koverlis and Zemgus Baltas are known for having caused some damage to an Arcjuga bar after celebrating their title with Lauvas last year; Magnus Livs is a known party-goer and hobby DJ. And Mindaugas Gazolinš was fined internally after allegedly having played a test match still mildly drunk the day after his 21st birthday.

KIT

LANGUAGE NOTE

The Kuraitan language has a few diacritics that are relevant for pronunciation. Writing these is essential within Kuraita; however, in names, they can be left out in writing as a translation convention if you prefer. In case you can’t produce them easily on your keyboard, here’s a quick reference collection of the ones present in this Kuraitan roster:

Č / č - pronounced as [tʃ]
Š / š - pronounced as [⁠ʃ⁠]
Ż - pronounced as [⁠ʒ⁠]

by **TotoMishin** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 5:23 am

Serg Ivanovich sat down to the interview, inhaling deeply into his mug of coffee. The interviewer sat across from him nervously twiddling with his microphone. Serg took a big gulp, unfortunately the liquid was still scolding so he tried to hide his facial expressions as best he could.

INT: So your first thoughts on the group? Difficult one? Perhaps a bit easier than anticipated?
Serg: Umm, well we have two unexperienced teams who we don't know much about. They haven't really played much. But Hopal is the only team that seems to have some experience, they will be the toughest opponenent and of course also the first one.

INT: So you're not worried about the games against Macbon and Montesina?
Serg: No, we'll have to see anyway.

This non-answer put the interviewer a bit off guard. His whole segment was based on that question!

INT: Umm, well ... umm so first game against Hopal, how ... what sort of plan?
Serg: Well, a very simple one. We have three key players here. They think that they are more experienced than us, wait and see how they do against Servan screaming in their faces for the whole match. You know he is a big lad and his face gets all red! Oh, I'm sure that will unsettle them. But of course, I will always give my special instructions to Lipan. Do as may tricks as possible, make their right back look foolish. I want him to bully their right back, professionally speaking of course, but so much so that his wife and kids back home have to turn off the tv because of embarassement.

Serg's face gleamed as he said this and gave out a chortle before continuing.

Serg: Anyway, Irinski is also important. I will just tell him to do his thing. You know what he does when he dribbles, the little shimmies and dukes. His crosses are very important as well, just woop (that is the soundeffect he used) right over the defense. Just let him do his thing.

INT: And you think this'll work?
Serg: Of course it will, why not. I mean I can't go and say it won't.

Serg was beggining to think that the Interviewer wasn't good at his job.

INT: How have you reacted to Poboris's injury?
Serg: Its a shame, but he always gets injured. I don't know why. Every season this happens, that ankle of his needs to get looked at. He's a phenomenal player, but he needs to play! Well, what can you do eh.

INT: Umm, yes ... well umm
The Interviewer scrambled through his notes, there was some other question that he had forgotten about.

INT: A bit of a different question, how do you feel about the political situation in Montesina with regards to their football team?
Serg: I don't care about that nor do I know enough. It doesn't really interest me. You know if their player wants to critize the president then he can do it, if he doesn't then he doesn't. I don't really care either way and I am not going to get involved with it. Otherwise people will accuse me of taking sides. I am a football coach not a politician, football is what I know.

INT: That's good, I suppose.
Serg: Good.

INT: Umm, let me think.

Serg took this oppurtunity to slurp his coffee loudly. The marshmellows came bobbling up at the bottom.

INT: Yes, final question how far do you think the national team will get in this tournament?
Serg: Oh, do I know! Best thing to do for that is to pray that margaret is nice and doesn't have any surprises for us.

With that Serg got up and left, taking his now marshmellowy coffee with him. The Interviewer sat back feeling stunned and wondering who on earth margaret was.

by **Tekatus** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 1:49 pm

The Municipia Chronicle

Content

Notable Events

Demonstrations and protests break out as High Directorate begin debate over possibly allowing humans to immigrate into Tekatus. More on page 7.
Severe Lightning Storm causes damage to power systems in Urbani, Brownouts and energy shortages to be expected in the following weeks. Additional Info and tips to ration and save energy on page 22.
'Law and Energy' said to be the hottest selling City-Builder game in Tekatus. Trailer and Developer interview on page 40.
Brand new team, Warhedz, making an explosive entrance into the Redline battle-racing scene as they demolish the Neon Dreams in their first head-to-head match of the season. Interviews with the Teams on page 48.
Crosswords in Tekata Standard, ROILA and Omnicode found on page 50-52.

Sport fans all across Tekatus are abuzz as famed Football team, The Iron Giants announce not only their participation in the NSWC but the entry tournament, Baptism of Fire. After an extensive redesign of their usual chassis in accordance with the regulations of both the NSWC and the Baptism of Fire, the team is both excited and honored to play and represent their country abroad.

Interviews with the team and coach all agree that “This will be different than the simulations” and “There’s just no way of knowing what to expect until game time” but head coach, Max Arbiterbuilt, assures us that “We’ll be ready to adapt to whatever is thrown at us, like always”. The team has been studying the rules and regulations and programming themselves to act in accordance with them, with many members of the team lamenting not being able to sprint faster or kick farther. One team member even laughed at how flimsy the regulation ball is compared to the ones they are used to playing with, stating “There’s no way I could kick these things with my old chassis. There wouldn’t be a ball left!” Despite the different regulations, the team is more than happy to limit themselves in order to play fair and safe with the other teams.

This recent trend of Tekatus joining international sporting events seems to be growing ever more popular as sport teams all across the nation are pleading for their chance. From the South Newlandian Elephant Chess Cup where our team scored a respectable tenth place, and now The Iron Giants taking to the international Football stage, we can expect to see further excitement in the future.

by **Gortolekua** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 7:39 pm

The Gortoleki Football Union
presents
The Gortolekua National Football Team

So...
What even is Gortolekua?

You find yourself on a boat somewhere in Anaian waters, say near Hodeikoleku, and you see a bay that looks absolutely welcoming—the Rehevä Bay, as many of your geography books call it. That beautiful body of water is calling your name, and you start heading toward that bay, approaching the mouth that leads into the Rehevä Bay, entering via the Eteroa Strait. Just as you make your way into the Eteroa Strait and the sharp calanques that grace most of the shores, a massive missile shoots up (from underwater, mind you) meters away from your vessel, telling you to get the hell away from us.

Gortoleki hospitality at its finest.

That was the case until very recently, thanks to a national opening led by the newly inaugurated Päälehen (what you might call a prime minister) Perry Salonen of the Ecologist Laborers’ Party. Sure, many Gortoleki would love to fire off missiles to anyone entering the Bay again, but it’s a no-can-do to do just that. So why now is Gortolekua going to open up to the world? “Because it’ll be unwise of us not to,” Salonen says, on a clockwork-like basis. So we’re now at a focal point in the nation’s history: Gortolekua is now supposed to be open to “diplomacy” and “talking to other people” (which, honestly, they’ve already been ready, it’s just past governments opposed it). And now there’s a valid reason for a national football team.

Now that you've made it past the potential missile blowing up your ship, Gortolekua is a country that—for whatever reason—chooses vintage over anything else. Sure, they've independently developed high definition television, satellite radio and other modern technological services that are taken for granted by many across the multiverse, but you'll rarely, if ever, find a Gortoleki using such a thing. Four-three aspected television, vinyl LPs, CDs, and early internet aesthetics with the blazing fast speeds of today are the norms in this Anaian nation. Fashion-wise, cuffed jeans and thrifted trainers are galore alongside corduroy skirts and esquired leather boots. Mainstream Gortoleki fashion is best compared to the prevalent university fashion choices across many liberal arts departments and college radio stations.

But beyond the institutionalized hostility toward foreigners imposed by generations of governments, the perceived pretentiousness that originates from the average Gortoleki's fashion sense, and the intra-national rivalry between the Gortola in the north and Olekua in the south, split by the Eteroa Strait, Gortoleki people are...warm. They'll help you out on the street if you're lost—before telling you to stop wasting their time. They'll offer a warm plate of food to someone in need before rushing you to wash dishes faster. They'll tell you they care about your utmost well-being while also roasting the living crap out of you. They care, even if it seems like they don't.

A brief national footballing history

As a philosophy, that Gortoleki tough love is what makes football— Gortolekua’s most popular and beloved sport—special in the country. It’s one of a few things Gortola and Olekua both agree on. Compassion for their opponent as people, ruthlessness for their opponents as players. You'll see some of the nastiest, yet fairest, tackles from a Gortoleki centre-back tracking back their opponent, or simulations that are reasonable from strikers and forwards. If the ball is well and far away, it's an insult to the game to dive, but if there's a chance where it looks like the ball is close? Prepare for an acting performance unlike any other. There's a respect for the beautiful game and its hideous counterparts among Gortoleki players and overall genuine excitement for bringing this brand of football to the multiverse.

Until very recently, the nation had no sort of national league, instead relying on the 10 provincial leagues for a league fix. Now entering its second season, the newly-created Ohorekunnia is where most of the Winter Lynxes are sourced for this inaugural national team. Of course, some of the recently transferred out players—the first Gortoleki people to leave the country in who knows how long—will also be included in the squad as well.

Coaching

For this inaugural Gortoleki football team, the Gortoleki Football Union decided to select one manager from last season's Ohorekunnia crop of gaffers to lead the helm and coach a Winter Lynx team that should (hopefully) bring home glory to a nation that never thought of international glory. For that, the GFU chose Astraalitaso manager and noted aavakitze supporter Bárbara Sanderson. "It's been a long time coming, this shot for our country," Sanderson said. "We've, in my opinion, closed ourselves off from the rest of the world and all the past governments have never given us a good reason as to why. It's ridiculous that we went this long without anything massive, but we're now here ready to give it all, no matter what. Respect for our opponents and the game throughout, but a greater respect for winning as well."

Tactically, Sanderson employs a 4-2-3-1 at her home club, and it's the same formation she'll be imposing for the first ever national football team. The stalwart position in Gortoleki football is the defensive midfielder; the two defensive midfielders will serve as the heartbeat for Gortolekua's team. A strong defensive partnership will prove to be key for any success that comes in the Baptism of Fire.

Roster

Squad No. - Name - Age - Position - Club

Goalkeepers
1. Malone Newport - 31 - GK - Kyynel PK (GTK) - (c)
12. Piia Heikkilä - 32 - GK - Parakleion Firebirds (TKT)
23. Rigmor Ragnvaldsson - 27 - GK - Tähti Roverit JK (GTK)

A stalwart leader between the posts, Ohorekunnia Golden Glove-winner Malone Newport is the obvious choice to be Gortolekua's No. 1 for its first ever foray into multiversal football. Standing at 191cm, his acrobatic shot-stopping is something he rarely gets to exhibit playing for club side Kyynel PK, but he knows how to break out a camera flash or two. While his ball distribution may be a bit on the weaker side, distributing conservatively to a distance but also prone to turning over the ball in that way, Newport can certainly absorb most of what comes his way. Piia Heikkilä is a solid sweeper-keeper who can begin excellent attacks from her goalkicks, but her ventures outside of the box have proven costly to previous club KftA Lehoi Hegodun. She's hopeful to showcase maturity to her Parakleion Firebirds teammates and manager with a hopeful appearance or two in the tournament. Finally, Rigmor Ragnvaldsson, combining Newport's shot-stopping and Heikkilä's distribution on soundly inferior-but-not-awful scales, will be key to any deep run in the knockouts; he's their penalty specialist.

Defenders
2. Julio Saarinen - 25 - LB - Tähti Roverit JK (GTK)
3. Rocío Guadarrama - 26 - CB - FC 1-2-3-4-5 Kappale (GTK)
4. Garland Toivonen - 30 - CB - 1. Turvatyyny TJK (GTK)
5. Kauko Scrivener - 24 - RB - Tähti Roverit JK (GTK)
13. Grier Fishman - 31 - LB - SD Marriubia (GTK)
14. Lía Lindsey - 20 - CB - Southern Star (BRE)
15. Arin Travieso - 29 - CB - Kyynel PK (GTK)
16. Eder Linna - 27 - RB - FC 1-2-3-4-5 Kappale (GTK)

Saarinen and Scrivener go hand-in-hand together as a full-back pairing, and their telepathic communication is what makes home club Tähti Roverit JK a delight to watch. Both are interconnected, knowing when to cross, defend, or alleviate pressure on either side of the pitch. They're solid scorers, excellent defenders, and surprisingly sly playmakers as well. It makes sense that they know each other so well, given that the two came up from the academy together and have pretty much been on the same journey since their fateful call-up. The two will need to be more defensive working in Sanderson's system, but if she gives the green light for the two to do what they do best, it's a good advisory for opponents to watch it.

The centre-back pairing, however, is a generational divide. Garland Toivonen and Lía Lindsey are definitely one of the last pairings fans expected to be that last line of defense in the inaugural Winter Lynx XI. But their styles of play complement each other so well: Lindsey is a passionate and calculated defender for her age, with great signs of maturing to become of the nation's finest defenders in a couple years' time. Southern Star in Brenecia already recognizes the diamond in the rough that lays within. But she's still going to be a brash teenager player. Toivonen, however, provides the level-headedness that Lindsey may lack given her age. He knows how to put a foot in better than anyone else on this team, and when to put that foot in. You'll find Toivonen where he needs to be during any given moment, and that's what makes a good centre-back great.

For back-up options, Rocío Guadarrama and Arin Travieso both offer masterclasses in timewasting and tomfoolery. Guadarrama is one of those players you love to have on your team but hate otherwise, all while not being afraid of receiving a yellow card if need be. She'll put in a tackle and call it "proper football," but her hotheadedness is more intense than that of Lindsey's. She's an amazing back-up option but definitely keen on exploding every now and then. Conversely (and ironically, given his last name), Travieso may be seen as too soft. He knows how to ping a ball out from distance, and he can tackle, but there's glimpses of him within that truly hold back his greatness on a daily basis. If he played with more aggression than he normally does, he would be a feared centre-back. But a calm Arin Travieso still makes opposing forwards feel uneasy. On the sides, Grier Fishman is a slow yet methodical left-back—a return to what being a left-back means for football traditionalists, while finding it difficult to produce anything productive in opposing halves of the pitch. Eder Linna offers great speed and great attacking, yet somewhat lacks in defensive output. Expect to see him come on if Gortolekua needs a goal late and the Saarinen/Scrivener duo can't do it on their own.

Midfielders
6. Jessica Partanen - 29 - DM - KftA Lehoi Hegodun (GTK) - (vc)
8. Mapla Salinas - 27 - CM/DM - FC 1-2-3-4-5 Kappale (GTK)
10. Ivor Esteban - 21 - CM/AM - Sporting Arkamo (ASG)
17. Myra Randal - 27 - AM/CM - 1.FC Goudini (GTK)
18. Karissa Lynton - 30 - DM - Kyynel PK (GTK)
19. Landen Pilgrim - 33 - DM - Coventry Harvesters (CDG)

Two of the country's best defensive midfielders will have their chance to shine through and through. Jessica Partanen is a great midfielder director who can put a shift in the backline if needed. She can help push on or pull back with maximum ease and on the fly as well. And a solid leadership presence in the outfield as well. Karissa Lynton, of Kyynel PK, sure knows how to kill the game. She helped lead her club side, alongside Malone Newport and Arin Travieso, to be Gortolekua's most smothering side in the league. Opponents best believe Lynton will bring that same smothering quality as a defensive midfielder to the national team.

As for that third starting midfielder, she's in an entirely opposite school of footballing philosophy. Myra Randal led the league in assists last season with 30 (an average of 1 per match), and will definitely be finding any open space she can to either carry forward or weigh some through balls. If Randal can find just that, she’s bound to impress the many fans watching this Baptism of Fire and wow the blokes over at Boom!™ Uranium Mining to make their Best Eleven.

Mapla Salinas, the Ohorekunnia's Player of the Season, was controversially left on the bench despite many fans' pleas and pundits' lauding of her as better than any of the midfielders selected by Sanderson. The gaffer, however, views Salinas differently. "She's phenomenal at what she does," Sanderson said. "For the most part. We have a stacked midfield and for my tactical needs, Salinas is less of what I need than any of Partanen, Lynton or Randal. But you have to have a solid bench to go far in this tournament, so whenever there's a situation where I'll need Mapla, you'll be the first to see it in my face."

Ivor Esteban is one of the new kids on the block. He’s a highly touted prospect for the national team who, while not ready yet, should be on the Starting XI when this Gortolekua team finds its rhythm down the line. But Bárbara Sanderson still believes he’s good enough to make the first team, and is giving him a chance to break out ahead of schedule. Another excellent goal creator bound to take over from Randal down the line, Esteban joined Astograthian side Sporting Arkamo to further his development in one of the multiverse’s top leagues. He’s calm under the expected pressure that comes with being a superstar in the making. “Sure, it’ll be a long ways down before we get taken seriously, but hopefully this is our first chance of making it happen,” Esteban said in a GFU.gtk exclusive interview. “But there’s beauty in the struggle, and that’s where I thrive. I’m hoping this is where we can start making a name for ourselves.”

Finally, Landen Pilgrim—considered by many to be the greatest Gortoleki player of his generation—rounds out the midfield. With shot knees and half the stride he once had, he doesn’t play with the same grace that he used to play with. But for a player that’s meant so much to anyone who’s watched him play, this is a once in a lifetime chance that he never thought would come. He can still put in a mean tackle here or there, if needed, but he’s out here living the dream.

Forwards
7. Darby Innes - 28 - LW - KftA Lehoi Hegodun (GTK)
9. Torcull Allan - 29 - ST - 1. Turvatyyny TJK (GTK)
11. Catrine Mäkinen - 27 - RW - Tähti Roverit JK (GTK)
20. Drummond Douglas - 30 - ST - 1.FC Goudini (GTK)
21. Ambrose Echevarría - 24 - LW - 1.FC Goudini (GTK)
22. Judith Berge - 19 - ST/RW - Tähti Roverit JK (GTK)

For a front three, Ohorekunnia goal-scoring machine Drummond Douglas leads the way alongside his runner-up in the Golden Boot competition, Darby Innes. Douglas is a close-range merchant, best finding the back of the net when he’s got excellent play building up to him, whereas Innes’ goal-scoring prowess comes from her ability to cut inside into the opposition and score from mid-range. It’ll be challenging, with two goal-scoring machines up front—Douglas is the more likely of the two to assist, but Innes (considered the most humble of the KftA squad) promises she’ll pass when it matters. “Yeah, I get I’ve got a rep for bagging a few too many goals for a winger, but I’ll do my best to ensure not to hog too much,” Innes said during a pre-Baptism of Fire presser. “There’s national glory up for grabs, and I can overlook my daily rivals if it means we can be eternal champions.”

To round out the starting frontline, Catrine Mäkinen makes her way in as another crossing specialist, and her link-up play alongside club teammate Kauko Scrivener should create exciting action alongside the right. While four assists may not seem much, Tähti Roverit’s xG is shown to have a statistically significant difference whenever Mäkinen is in the squad But it’s her backup in Judith Berge, who normally plays as a striker, that raised eyebrows toward manager Sanderson. “She plays with such great excellence and bursting speed that I’m going to be doing [Tähti Roverit manager] Anne [Garcia] a favor when Judith comes back from international duty,” Sanderson said. Berge’s flexibility as a player should open up for even serving as a striker if need be in dire situations as well.

Similarly, Ambrose Echevarría is playing in a more forward position from his traditional left wing-back spot alongside Douglas at 1.FC Goudini, but his pace will certainly be no issue for him should he be used in the upcoming tournament. And Torcull Allan, considered the most balanced of the six forward players selected, rounds out the collective. Considered to be the country’s “most complete striker” right now, Allan provides a specific balance with goals and assists that would normally peg him as the starter, but Allan is coming off a light hamstring injury picked up during off-season training. “I’m feeling ready to play now, but I need to keep it light to start for now, at least,” Allan said. “Keep the training wheels on for a minute before I go full sprint. Hopefully Drummond doesn’t screw up my recovery!”

Style Modifier: +1.1
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goal-scorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: TG me first, I'm pretty open
RP injuries to my players: Yes, TG me first and we can talk severity
Godmod injuries to my players: TG me first
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes, no more than 3 per match
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes, no more than 1 per match
Godmod other events: Yes

by **Forbidden Territories** » Wed Apr 20, 2022 11:46 pm

Interview with Football Pundit Rajendra Ghosh

By Monica Cruise, a Staff Correspondent

The FT News Network decided to interview Rajendra Ghosh, a well known Footballing pundit who had correctly predicted the standings of Norcress League and the Finalists of IAC 15. The interview was conducted by Rob Smith in regards to The Forthers taking part in their first World Cup and The Baptism of Fire since the isolationist era, their chances of qualifying for World Cup, how far they expect to go in The Baptism of Fire. Below is the Excerpt containing selected important questions and their answers:-

Rob:- What are your thoughts on the team selected for Baptism of Fire?

Ghosh:- It seems a bit stale to me. No new faces to the team, but at the same time, no many players got to participate in the Independents Cup, so it was to be expected. I expect some new players to come into the fray especially since it was seen that the team has been experimenting on some new lineups.

Rob:- The decision of Matt Ress to switch lineups and tactics had been frowned upon by a subsection of fans, some called it a misplay, while others criticized the decision to do it at knockouts instead of group stages, what's your opinion in regards to that?

Ghosh:- In my opinion, at that point of time the result would have been same. Strayaroos had prior knowledge of our tactics in the previous game. In fact, we omly managed to win against them due to the change in strategy by Ress after half time, the substitution of Alberto Sanchez was vindicated , which shows Ress' coaching prowess. At the same time, I feel that he had become overconfident after that match due to which there was not much chopping and changing in regards to the team. He wanted a top of the table finish.

Rob:- What are your thoughts on the team's qualifying chances for World Cup?

Ghosh:- Well... my heart says that no matter the what lies in our way, we can overcome it and qualify for the World Cups. On the other hand, my brains says to me NO and if we are being honest, barring any major teams withdrawal or an unprecedented expansionnof World Cup, I don't see us going through unless we are playing at our best at all times throughout the match.

Rob:- But haven't we played well against Squidroidia and Omerica, those are some of the top World Cup teams and we fought wiith them toe to toe?

Ghosh:- But that was in the Independents Cup, and this is the world cup, rankings differ and so does the pitch, style as well as the stakes. Their teams at the Independents Cup were playing friendly, as well as under the bindings of the clause, which resets the experience of the team from two non partnered competition. However some experience do trickle through and helps in providing difference between closely ranked teams. Aside from Omerica, and Squidroidia, there are other teams also, who we have not played and hence have no idea what their playjng style resembles.

Rob:- Rodriguez has been under consistent pressure, do you see him faltering in the World Cup qualifying?

Ghosh:- Good players have lean patches, and it is only human to have some failures. After all, not everyone is perfect, Rodriguez has never played in a tournament of such magnitude. I am sure his IAC experience , whatever trickled through would help. If not, he would need to warm up in the BoF, where he will be tested against other teams of similar calibre. However the difference in the quality between BoF amd World Cup is tremendous.

Rob:- Speaking of BoF, what do yout think of our group?

Ghosh:- There is no knowledge of Cardenao, amd Kuraita, so I don't know how much string they will, we must not underestimate them as they could use skme new tactics and measure which we would not have seen, in a way it's good that we dont have our first match against them. Trollish Islands will most probably top the group, as they have access to footballing infastructure and coaching of Trolleborg, so they will be the toughest opponent for us.

Rob:- Lastly, how far do you think we wil l progress in the Baptism Of Fire?

Ghosh:- The Baptism of Fire is a qild card tournament, all teams have never participated in WCC sanctioned events so it is one of the most random and exciting tournaments, the difference between a team in finals and the bottom most team can be sometimes null. At the same time, some teams are obviously inherently more superior since they participated in more tournaments and have a functioning league.

Rob:- Speaking of league-

Ghosh:- NO! I would not want to comment on the state of the league, I reckon it would be for another time, didn't you say that it was the last question?

Rob:- I suppose so, but could not you spare some more time in regards to this question? It seems you have some interesting opinions in regards to the new League.

Ghosh:- I am afraid I cannot. As for opinions, it's the same as all those fans across the Forthers, nothing much and no difference. I can't say any more in regards to conflict of interest.
============================================================================================================================================

by **StrayaRoos Barrier Islands** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 12:27 am

The Emu League is off and running with 7 teams playing off,in the first week God Emu Team won all 6 of their games and only conceded 1 goal,so let's see if they can hold on to the halfway point at the poorly-built Rigga Stadium,which houses (allegedly) 50,000 safely but we don't trust the kangaroos who constructed it

Table after Matchday 7

* Emu League            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 God Emu Team            6    6   0   0    24    1  +23    18
2 Mrrpers                 6    3   1   2    10   12   −2    10
3 Emu FC                  6    3   0   3    12   13   −1     9
4 Duomji United Emus      6    3   0   3     7   10   −3     9
5 StrayaRoos Emus         6    3   0   3     5    8   −3     9
6 Cavalier Emus           6    1   1   4     6   12   −6     4
7 Bad Emu Team            6    1   0   5     4   12   −8     3

Week 2 Games
all games at Rigga Stadium,Fixe,Rigga,SBI

MD8
StrayaRoos Emus 2–1 Cavalier Emus
Mrrpers 2–1 Duomji United Emus
God Emu Team 3–1 Emu FC

MD9
Emu FC 0–3 Mrrpers
Duomji United Emus 0–1 StrayaRoos Emus
Cavalier Emus 2–0 Bad Emu Team

MD10
Bad Emu Team 0–0 Duomji United Emus
StrayaRoos Emus 2–1 Emu FC
Mrrpers 0–2 God Emu Team

MD11
God Emu Team 2–0 StrayaRoos Emus
Emu FC 0–1 Bad Emu Team
Duomji United Emus 0–2 Cavalier Emus

MD12
Cavalier Emus 1–1 Emu FC
Bad Emu Team 0–4 God Emu Team
StrayaRoos Emus 1–2 Mrrpers

MD13
Mrrpers 1–0 Bad Emu Team
God Emu Team 2–0 Cavalier Emus
Emu FC 1–1 Duomji United Emus

MD14
Duomji United Emus 1–2 God Emu Team
Cavalier Emus 2–1 Mrrpers
Bad Emu Team 2–1 StrayaRoos Emus

END WEEK 2 TABLE

* Emu League            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 God Emu Team           12   12   0   0    39    3  +36    36
2 Mrrpers                12    7   1   4    19   18   +1    22
3 StrayaRoos Emus        12    6   0   6    12   16   −4    18
4 Cavalier Emus          12    4   2   6    14   18   −4    14
5 Emu FC                 12    3   2   7    16   24   −8    11
6 Duomji United Emus     12    3   2   7    10   18   −8    11
7 Bad Emu Team           12    3   1   8     7   20  −13    10

by **Trollish Islands** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 6:25 am

TROLLISH ISLANDS NATIONAL TEAM

COACH
As on the continent, the choice of coaches was decided by the vote of specialists and fans, and the overwhelming majority of the votes went to the favorite, 55-year-old Hendrick Kerr, one of all three coaches in the country who had ever coached teams in international tournaments and was traditionally considered the number two candidate to lead the national team.

TEAM
Most of the players play for the teams of the islands in various competitions typical for the archipelago, scattered over a vast area, many of them saw each other for the first time during the training camp. It is not yet clear how they will be able to show themselves in the difficult conditions of international football, especially since the team will be pressured by the rather formidable reputation of “big cousins”, winners of three tournaments, and in an environment where opponents already know roughly what to expect.

Goalkeepers
Vidar Haugesunn (29 years old). Having good speed and positional senses, he also blessed with extraordinary reflexes that allow him to make some outstanding saves, and is safe when he has to come off his line for high balls.

Rollag Krokkenleiv (28). Being tall and sturdy built, this goalkeeper makes most of his height, he dominates box area well, and his good reflexes allow him to make some very spectacular saves

Defenders
Jesper Brandval (28). Central defender, fast player, not a particularly tall but having excellent vision, speed and determination, that allows him usually come on top in every fight.

Timen Finnsken (27). Classical full-back, and it’s difficult to get past him due to his positional sense and experience

Finnges Heggeriseth (28). As good on round as he is strong in the air. Play either defender of defensive midfielder, his work definitely makes life extremely uncomfortable for opponents. As DM he effectively form part of midfield, allowed to push into the attack as needed.

Johan Hitterdal (27). Can be used as sweeper or classical hard central defender, indefatigable tackler with excellent positional sense.

Tomas Hjerre (26). Fast attacking right back, and he is fairly good adapted to play as right midfielder. He is magnificient ballwinner in his part of the pitch

Torgils Bergen (26). This quick player can be used as right defender of fullback as need arise, he manages to keep things under control whenever he play.

Asvaldur Fleimen (29). Versatile left back, constantly moving forward helping out the winger in front of him. His good capabilities in both ball-winning and crossing give him edge in both defense and offence.

Jostein Mellerud (26). Quick and intelligent left defender, who fights hard for the ball. Being efficient passser and crosser, he often move far forward to assist in attacks.

Midfielders
Morten Vingsand (29). Strong midfielder with powerful long range shooting, able to get quickly from one box to another and from right to left sideline. Most comfortable as a defensive midfielders, and in this position he was well known for constantly winning ball back for the team

Flenn Lauvsnes (27). Skillful midfielder, orchestrating things in the center of the field, who have ability passing accuratel over both long and short distances. Altought not too big he is competent in the air, moving towards the box at set pieces.

Torgils Skrovath (29). Engine of his local team, this tremendously strong player made a lot of work in the centre of midfielder. Constructive player who read game well, he is both capable to neutralize opponent’s playmakers and lays on plenty of chances for teammates

Roald Lejknes (25). Right midfielder, who cuts inside very well, then either pass into the box or play one-two and move even farther to make pass. He was assisted in his endeavours by good dribbling skills backed up by his physical power.

Torfinn Fingeland (26). Quality left midfielder, moving himself and ball around at high speed. He have a name, unpronounceable to outsiders, denoting a high-speed version of the traditional transport of his native group of islands. In addition he have excellent playing vision.

Thomas Jerring (27). He usually plays on the left, but comfortable on either sideline. Good crosser, adept in finding his teammates in the box, he also capable to make a strong long shots on goal

Jesper Fjellerup (29). Fast, hardworking and dynamic player, player who plays just behind the main strikers, specialist at surprising opposition defenders and getting ball inside the box

Bjorn Kolling (28). Strong midfielder player who can play on either side, with excellent physical qualities, which gives him ability to puts unbelieveable amout of efforts for his team. Constanly attempting to create chances for his teammates and never alien to the idea of moving forward and shot at goal himself.

Forwards
Thorsten Herning[/b] (29). Fast and skillful (by Trollish Islands standards) player. Aggression with which he attacks make him difficult to contain. Capable to holding ball up and protecting it before moving or shot it efficiently.

Thore Rinkebing (28). Extremely strong centre forward, with good pace, he blessed with a both feet powerful shot, also excellent in the air .

Trondvelur Sandvik (27). Strong, tall and powerfully built player, master of putting defenders under pressure, never give rival players a second to rest, and tremendously dangerous in both setting pieces situations and crosses.

Viggo Heldevijk (29). Hardworking second forward, skillful, quick and decisive player, who never shy of moving back and help there.

UNIFORM
As Trollish Islands until recently have no clear symbols, choice of colors was delegated to the people, and they are vote for a blue-and-white uniform with a gap that leaves no doubt about preferences. The players of the team, of course, share the usual superstitiousness of the trolls and stocked up the second-place uniform option, all-blue.

Style –5: this is for scorination purposes only. Team honestly try to emulate “elder cousins”: play high-speed football, applying heavy pressure on defense, and hired a coach who professes exactly this style, but has players who are much less technically gifted, and, objectively and honestly, a lower level of skills. Like the “cousins”, the players from the Trollish Islands do not feign injuries, fouls, do not beg for penalties and rarely argue with the referees – there was a joke that in controversial cases, the stands usually speak loudly instead of players. But the moral guidelines on the islands are simple, and football players can often respond to provocations rudely, up to direct assault of provocateurs and wall-to-wall fights with opponents if need arise.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: No
RP injuries to my players: Yes, but I will determine severity
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Only for last hope fouls, everything other must be agreed with me
Godmod other events: Basically No – but if you have some interesting ideas, let’s discuss them and probably we will find middle ground

by **Trollish Islands** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 6:26 am

Greetings, compatriots!
It’s TTV from Mertagne, where our crew arrived to cover the matches of the next Baptism of Fire, in which the team of our dear relatives, the Trollish Islands team, will take part. Of course, we all remember that we, compatriots, have our own preferred teams in many BoF editions – such as Alba and Cymru or Tequilo, but right now we have much better stake.

Like all of you, our dear viewers, we all very recently learned that the islands, islets and heaps of stones scattered across the world ocean, at different times claimed for our country, were singled out as a special territory in the course of the clarification of the geographical boundaries of the regions, and being as a result accorded many features of the state. Information about affairs on distant islands repeatedly appeared in the news, we all remember the episode when one of the groups of islands was subjected to a military threat from the country that occupied the coast of the nearest continent, and our entire vast country expressed its readiness to stand as a wall to defend our brethren, but even then we knew little about how our fellow citizens live in all these patches of land scattered across the ocean. And they are scattered so widely that between some islands the distance is even greater than from them to the continental part of Trolleborg. And this allows the country, in principle, to claim the right to be considered part of any of more than a dozen regions - including Rushmore, Anaia, Esportiva, Atlantic Oceania, known for their sporting achievements. It is noteworthy that after the announcement of the allocation of the Trollish Islands status as a separate territory, several small regions immediately sent proposals to the leadership of the islands with invitations to be counted as part of them, but the leadership announced their intention not to rush to determine which region they would be assigned to. We believe that the political culture traditionally brought up in our country also affects decisions here, which prescribes not to rush and not to publish loud statements. And if joining sporting regions will be considered at all, it would be nice to see first how the team assembled under Baptism of Fire shows itself. We all remember with what bated breath the whole country was waiting for the debut of our national team. Fans from the islands have arrived on charter flights from the Trolleborg Wings and have already been joined by a large crew from Trolleborg proper.

Our TV channel intends to show at least part of the matches in 3D and to talk about the life of the Trollish Islands in between matches.

“Nyhedere vores regioon” newspaper (bigger by the number of copies everyday newspaper of Trollish Islands)

We are glad to inform readers that yesterday our national team departed for Baptism of Fire after a two-week training camp. Before leaving the airport, the players and the coaching staff went through the proper traditional rituals, the head coach was promoted to the rank of "lejder floken", at the level of councilors of the Trollish Islands regional parliament and provided with the appropriate regalia. The most experienced mentor Hendrick Kerr was once chosen to lead the Trolleborg youth team in its first competition and under his leadership she reached the playoffs of the tournament, where she lost to the hosts, and in her second competition in Taeshan, which was remembered by everyone for its coldness, both literally and figuratively reception, suffered an unexpected and insulting fiasco with this team, and suffered another insulting failure at the third such tournament. He was always considered number two if Morten Troghil was unable to carry out his duties after another offensive defeat, and his name was linked with applications to coach Sarzonia and Garbelia teams, but at the end nothing was forthcoming. Since he is one of only three coaches to have ever coached Trolleborg's teams in any tournament, it's no wonder he was chosen. Almost 40% of the population around the airport came to see off the players, and even more watched the live 3D broadcast. It can be expected that the rebroadcast of the first match will break all records for the number of viewers in the Trollish Islands.

A large group of fans went with the team, the leadership of the islands and Trolleborg Wings provided everyone with the opportunity to get to Mertagne, and tomorrow we will start publishing stories of those who have visited, undoubtedly, the most important event for the islands of the last few decades. Come on guys, the whole Trolleborg is watching you, but remember, that world of football is treacherous, so don't fall down when things goes awry!

by **TotoMishin** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 8:24 am

The team had all settled into their hotel rooms. Everyone was now starting on their individual pre-game rituals, the team always did this before the start of a tournament. It helped them calm down, focus and ease the jetlag that had now handsomely accumulated. That was certainly no joke, although it is known exactly how much time difference there is between TotoMishin and Mertagne. The players felt the difference anyway. Luckily they stocked up on energy bars and coffee, a bit too much though. They had fight at the imports and customs desk to get it all in.

Irinski stood infront of his bathroom mirror, slowly reciting a mantra to himself. He looked up and forced himself to stare directly at his refelction.
"Ok, see its not that bad. Now just imagine that the mirror is a camera and your face is being projected to thousands of people back home. Oof, see its easy"
He squeezed the side of the sink to force himself to focus.
"Ok, 1 2 3. Keep looking, calm now, easy".
He tried to form a small smile, awkwardly placing one side of his mouth higher than the other.
"Now, just smile".
This went on for sometime, until he withdraw from the mirror. Head down, breathing heavily from the rush of fear and excitement. Maybe he would get it one day, but so far what he was doing here felt superficial. He knew that the mirror wasn't really a camera and couldn't fool himself to believe otherwise. Oh well, just like his therapist said it will take time.

Lipan flicked a waterbottle between his feet, then flicked it up and bounced it off the ceiling. Continously, effortlessly replaying the muscle memory. Over and over again. Right foot, ceiling, left foot. Left foot, ceiling, right foot. Right foot, ceiling ,left foot. Across from him sat Servan, deeply engrossed in some knitting. Headphones playing a nice relaxing yoga mediation. It might've been a shock for the fans to see him like this, but it was all very reasonable. Servan was fundementally not an aggressive person, sure he had struggled with it as a child. Yet now, he consigned all of that to the football pitch. So that in the rest of his life he could be the calm measured person he wanted to be.

Bogdan stood by his bed, silently lifting weights. In the dim glow of the hotel room lights, he could easily be mistaken for a solemn tree trunk. Methodically, moving one arm up and down after the other, carrying with it a hefty weight. Tupanski sat on his bed twiddling his thumbs. Wondering why on Earth he was here? He knew he wasn't very good at football, he was ready to admit that. Surely, there was someone else that could take his place. All he wanted to do in life was become a chef. Cooking was a passion he still kept up filling in from time to time as head of the kitchen that travelled with them. He enjoyed preparing the food then, it was strangely the one time he felt appreciated on the team. Sighing, he returned back to his cookbook and read in peace.

Serg Ivanovich sat at his desk, scrolling through his laptop. He was trying to find any new information on the Hopal national team. Any interviews with their manager or perhaps a look at their tactics. So far he hadn't managed to find much but had come across an interesting Mishian forum about the Baptism of Fire. Someone had posted an edit of the national team, set to epic dramatic music. The video was impressive, featuring all the top highlights of the player's careers so far. Their goals, assists, skills and great moments. It was very well edited as well, with the quick swoosh transitions timed perfectly with the beat of the music. At the end the screen lit up with the words:

THIS IS THE TOTOMISHIN NATIONAL TEAM!!!

He gulped, so that's what people thought.

by **Caribbia** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 9:36 am

Caribbean National Football Team

Miscellaneous Information:

Team Name: Caribbia National Football Team
Team Nickname: The Crabs
Preferred Formation: Usually 4-4-1-1, sometimes 4-3-3 if against heavily defensive team.
Manager: Nick Keller
Goalkeeping Coach: Wiro Stuart
Style Modifier: -1

Roster:

——— ([Full Name - Number]) - (Age) ———

GK:
Otto Warner - 1 (27)
Carlos Narváez - 19 (21)
Jon Ahlström - 32 (25)
DEF:
Peter Raines - 12 (34)
Xiang Zhao - 7 (19)
Landon Kauffman - 3 (22)
Marc Mason - 42 (18)
Gilbert Garland - 6 (18)
Simon Hitter - 5 (22)
Przemysław Kopeć - 48 (24)
MID:
Paul Madden - 10 (30)
Ben Rider - 87 (18)
Vernon Black - 20 (20)
Don Duke - 9 (17)
Raúl Cortéz - 13 (29)
Luke Jamison - 99 (21)
ATT:
Hemming Patton - 15 (28)
Jerome Franco - 8 (33)
Matty Forsberg - 4 (24)
Matt Bridge - 59 (19)
Peter Holman - 2 (25)
Colm Björkman - 11 (18)

Starting XI:

M. Forsberg
J. Franco
V. Black
P. Madden
R. Cortéz
L. Jamison
S. Hitter
L. Kauffman
M. Mason
X. Zhao
O. Warner

RP Permissions:

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (TG me first if severe)
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes
Godmod other events: TG me

by **Tjorl** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 9:48 am

NS-Verse Tjorl Lore

STAFF
Manager | Viktor Mandel
Assistant Managers | Mats Klossner, Lisbeth Herschel
Fitness Coaches | Edvard Freudenberger, Annette Mayer

SQUAD ROLES
Captain: Franz Kaufer
Short FK: Martin Breiner
Long FK: Johan Kalbfleisch
Penalties: Nikolaj Eriksen
Left Corner: Elisabet Kruse
Right Corner: Johan Kalbfleisch

TYPICAL STARTING 11 (4-2-3-1)
This is just to show Tjorl's usual starters. If you want Tjorl to have a different starting lineup if you RP first, then feel free to do so.

NICKNAME: De Frostkjemper (The Frost Giants)
FANBASE NICKNAME: Die Kald Block (The Cold Block)
HOME ARENA: Morsteinstadion (Capacity: 91,422)
DEMONYM: Tjorlin (noun) & Tjorlish (adjective & plural)
TRIGAMME: TJL
MAIN FORMATION: 4-2-3-1
RANK: Unranked
STYLE: +2
HISTORY: 7-2-3 [3-1-0 in region]

De Frostkjemper are ready to make some noise once again as they prepare for their debut in the 78th edition of the Baptism of Fire. After a recent Cinderella run in IAC 15, Viktor Mandel's squad are ready to prove their worth on the international football stage again. Tjorl is put into Group G, along with Gardelrya, Sudilia, and Tyskerlund. The squad remains the same other than Marina Nystrand being called up in place of Marianne Berhardt. In a press conference, team top scorer Nikolaj Eriksen said "We are ready to give it our all to represent the flag for a second time. BoF will be fierce, so obviously we can never be complacent with the competition that we have."

by **Gortolekua** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 9:49 am

All Perry Salonen could do was watch as election results flowed in.

Admittedly, he mea culpaed the aavekitze — Gortolekua's efforts to become a multiversal player, thus ending the country's isolation from the rest of the world — by announcing it unilaterally. So a snap election was held for the 66th Gortoleki Parliament, the first ever snap election in 325 years of democracy. Effectively, this was a referendum on opening up. He knew his country's history lay square in the results that popped on screen tonight. His party, the Ecologist Laborers', were the country's forefront proponents of aavekitze, an issue splitting the nation in two. And he knew, still, that his party would end up winning the most seats in this election.

This election became a single-issue election: Should Gortolekua actually be open to the rest of the world? But relying on others to do the work you're hoping to accomplish is so damn frustrating.

His long-time political allies in Eteenera. certainly didn't think so. Veera Balbina, once considered to be Salonen's strongest ally, ransacked his record to make her case that Gortolekua's progress should be Gortolekua's, and Gortolekua's only. "Why the hell should we show ourselves off to the rest of the world? We've got all we need right here," Balbina yelled to her followers at political rallies. "Perry's lost his mind in trying to make us open. We've done so much already without the help — or the involvement — of anyone. Why change that?" Eteenera.'s numbers were climbing in the polls. Balbina knows how to carry herself in the murky world of politics. But why could she not see the benefits in actual global and multiversal interaction with the rest of the world, Salonen asked himself.

Markus Carman, of the centre-right Ylpeysasuna party? Less so. Gaffe after gaffe after gaffe chipped away at any progress his party would make in the polls. Yeah, he thought showing off his much cooler shoes to the rest of the electorate in one of Seinät's poorer neighborhoods wouldn't net him any trouble. But it did, and his party's numbers were tanking slightly. But Carman was on Salonen's same page for once. Both of them felt that there needed to be international relations in the first place. "There's no doubt you don't want Perry or Veera in charge, for vastly different reasons. But at least Perry sees eye-to-eye with me on this key point," Carman told Ylpeysasuna supporters in a safe seat in the Ibaiaho province. "We know opening Gortolekua will be better for all Gortoleki people. But if you vote for me, you'll get the Gortolekua we all get to see." It wasn't something Salonen was looking forward to — collaborating with someone so politically different than him. But if it meant a better and more cosmopolitan country, he knew he could hold his nose for Carman's policies.

Baliarvo and Vapauaska were too different to what Salonen's Ecologist Laborers' Party believed in issues wise, even if there was some agreement on the aavekitze question; those two parties had given their members free will on that issue, and most split 65-35 against opening. What he needed, really, was a stronger than normal performance from a regional party that steroided up. The TIBOA Union had recently been formed following a merger. The Team Inspiring a Bond Over the Arcatas, a regional powerhouse in the province of The Arcatas, united with the Union Party, a small political minnow that had really tried its hardest and failed at getting a national footing. The end result was a stronger than anticipated national force that was still weak. But strong enough to maybe be that one final government partner to push aavekitze over the line. Catherina Derricks, the TIBOA Union’s party leader, was young, charming, intelligent and convincing. Salonen loved how convincing she could be to anyone teetering to one side of the fence. Derricks graduated with honors from the University of Goudini, a top university, and knew how to speak all of the nation’s recognized languages. A smart politician who would definitely raise some eyebrows down the line. Maybe as a political opponent later, but she was getting attention as an ally now.

Salonen's nightmare, though, was Harvey Varraskura. A late-night talk-show comic with a more than commendable education experience, Varraskura wanted to throw a "joke of a wrench," in his words, into this serious discussion of "keeping the country open." Varraskura knows, at the end of the day, that politics feels farcical. Even if it actually isn't, everyone involved is putting on a face in some way to please some people in exchange for some votes so they can get some money. The comic's goal, in essence, was to join the perceived farce and make people question it. He enlisted some of his comic buddies and longtime show viewers to stand in seats across parliamentary districts. Varraskura wasn't going to get involved in this debate. He was making a point to the country, and the country was buying it. The opinion polls showed it as well; Harvey's, as the party was so named, was on the borderline of reaching 5 percent. It wasn't scary. It was frightening that some comic could upend his hopes and dreams.

He thought about the hopes he had growing up as a kid, wishing to see the world, but damned to only see Gortolekua. There's only so much of it to see before it gets boring eventually. So many hopes and dreams that many his age and younger had, but never really fought for thanks to the iron grip held on this issue for so long. There's joy in being out there, he thought, and there's joy in going out to explore the world.

Salonen stopped reminiscing when the television network did its election update chime. New numbers were coming in, and for the first time that night, there was a projection on the issue of opening up to the world. The Ecologist Laborers' Party was projected to get the most seats, and that had been the case all night, but victory wouldn't be declared if his main dream wouldn't be realized.

A projected parliamentary calculus was presented on screen. Seat calculations crawled on the ticker below, Salonen picking them up as fast as he could.

Ecologist Laborers' - 144 | Eteenera. - 124 | Ylpeysasuna - 89 | Baliarvo - 63 | Vapauaska - 54 | TIBOA Union - 36 | Harvey's - 27

Seven parties on display instead of six. Shit, that wasn't good for him. But the mental math was. His 144, plus Ylpeysasuna's 89, plus TIBOA Union's 36. 269 seats. Majority by one. Aavekitze was here to stay.

Just then, Salonen received the all-clear from an assistant to head out to his election night party to address supporters. Everyone cheered upon his entrance, but he motioned the crowd to settle down.

"We cannot end this with an agree to disagree. And the people of Gortolekua agreed."

Everyone looked at him, wondering what the next words out his mouth would be.

"We have to be open. We are now open. That's that."

This was a new stage of Gortoleki politics. Whatever issues that come up following the election — the economy, social issues, budgets, technology development — don't matter right now. At least, tonight they didn't. Perry Salonen got what he wanted. His country is now guaranteed to be an open player in the world. Nerves later, hope and optimism now, he thought, as the crowd cheered his words.

This is a new era for Gortolekua.

by **Tjorl** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 10:33 am

It's matchday in Farfadillis, and De Frostkjemper is ready to rumble. Something special seems to be in the air once again as people from all over the country are preparing their snacks, drinks, set-ups, and devices in order to watch their beloved team compete. The top players of the country are searching for success in the tournament, and with it to gain crucial points in order to rise in the World Cup Rankings. It is no doubt the Tjorlish will be watching in the millions, as sport is very popular in the country, especially with ongoing events such as the campaigning for the 2022 general elections. There is also certainty that the team has high ambitions after a great debut run in the IAC. How far can Viktor Mandel's team go? When asked, coach Mandel said that the minimum goal is to exit the group, while the ideal goal is to contend for the cup itself. However, most Tjorlish pundits believe that Tjorl will only reach the RO16 or quarterfinals, due to lots of interesting and tough competition such as Efnakia, Montesina, and Tyskerlund.

Unusual cult discovered in Urdahl mountains - Police Commissioner Halvorsen
Faustmark Police Commissioner Alecs Halvorsen said that the FPD have found an enigmatic cult in the mountains just outside of the city. After further investigation, it was learned that the cult is relatively peaceful, and only wishes for one thing: the success of Tjorlish sports. The abnormalities don't stop there. Numerous police employees were invited to witness the traditions of the cult, and they discovered more and more things about the group. First, the number of people in the cult seems to be exactly 1093. Second, the cult worships a figure named "Margaret", and they do so by burning rubber chickens in front of a statue of "Margaret". When the police asked the cult what "Margaret" meant to them, the cult only said that she was the "goddess of random". Whatever this group aims to achieve, it is undoubtably one of the strangest things that can be found in Tjorl.

by **Fort McKinley** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 7:51 pm

The People's Republic of Fort McKinley was declared on May 1, 1951, when Comrade Dr. Lester K. Allen was installed as the Chairman of the Central Committee of the Republic Party, as well as Leader of the People's Congress.

The People's Republic encompasses an area on the extreme southwestern portion of the Clanian Landmass (sic), with the Aethyrean Channel providing a natural waterfront along the western and southern portion of the nation.

The original occupiers of the area that includes present day Fort McKinley were made up of two separate peoples—the Kryanini and the Tennans, who over time became homologous in their own national identity. The peoples who became 'Mackians' subdued the last of these 'Krytenes' in 1911.

The nation that developed after this Final Conquest was originally named Shiloh, and established a government at Wilmore, in the far south of the country. In 1940, the Glorious People's Revolution was declared and the nation was divided into the opposite forces, with the corrupt capitalist government in the south, and the People's Republic supporters in the north, who established the spa town of Shiloh Springs as its base of operations.

Following the Unification of North & South Shiloh the nation changed its name to Fort McKinley, and Shiloh Springs became the seat of government. Comrade Dr. Allen had a vision that Fort McKinley would raise itself up to surpass the capitalist nations in standards of living, education and prosperity; today his vision lives on 45 years after his death as the nation is among the strongest in the multiverse. Generations of Mackies have learned of the struggles of their revolutionary forbearers who paved the way for our present superiority over the decadence and degeneracy of the capitalist cabal.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
People's Republic Team in First Match
(FMNA) DANNIN CITY, MERTAGNE--The People's Republic Football Team will have their first match since the exhibitions in ACF, against the team called Football Tigers, here in this city, the capital of the co-host Mertagne.

Head Coach Comrade C.J. Gray has put the squad through intensive training here, to keep the distractions of capitalist evils away. There have been changes made to the starting lineup, with Comrade D.C. Young in defense, Comrade W.T Clark in midfield and Comrade S.W. Smith in the forward line the replacements.

It is not expected that there will be attempts at match fixing against Fort McKinley as was seen in the ACF, and several thousand supporters from the homeland are here to encourage to team to glory.

by **Aleirave** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 9:50 pm

The Aleirave Football Association
Roster for Baptism of Fire LXXVIII

OOC: All players in blue are ethnically Klysevian, all players in red are native Aleiravan.

The island nation of Aleirave is a rather small one, with a population of barely 50 thousand, somewhere in Anaia. Where in Anaia is somewhat up to interpretation, but it's there, we know that.

The nation of Aleirave was originally founded by Fyodor Tereyev, who was a puteshestvennik (or "traveller") from Klysevia, about 350 years ago. His descendants ruled the island up until the year 2023, when Alexandr Tereyev was shot and killed by a lone gunman in a peaceful protest. Since then, the island has been ruled as an Special Administrative Unit of Eshialand, effectively acting as its own democratic nation within a nation.

This team was never supposed to do well. After all, this was a tiny island in the middle of a sea that didn't even really have a name. However, their performance in the third edition of the CAFA Cup (fourth place!) was enough to convince Haulafo Paka'ula to send them to the Baptism of Fire, which can't end badly. Clearly.

Okay yeah this'll end badly.

Nickname: the Seagulls
Trigram: ALR

Coach: Haulafo PAKA'ULA (M, 53)
Given the political situation in Aleirave, Coach Paka'ula was not supposed to form this team. His grand scheme when he decided to craft this team was to show that natives could be just as good at football as the Klysevians, and that the two could work together in an international competition. President Tereyev flatly denied Haulafo's request to start the team, so he did what any normal person would do and assembled the team anyway.

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

The Roster (starting XI in bold)
Goalkeepers:

GK #1 Falena RUKIPIATO (F, 27)

Oleg PONIEROV

Tehieko FEHIFELA

Defenders:

LB #4 Yekaterina OLAYEVA (F, 28)

RB #5 Piheve EVATENE (M, 18)

Serani NA'ELERU

Povure KELANULAHANE

CB #11 Tefei'o TESUNA'E (M, 24)

Grigori ZHENTONIOV

Midfielders:

LM #2 Efineha TESUNA'E (F, 24)

RCM #3 Aleksandr VRALETSKY (M, 29)

RM #8 Valeri TYONKO (M, 26)

LCM #12 Nakelia LIFEVANEKA (F, 19)

Lunaha FUSERAKA

Petr ENOVRIEV

Nusene FAVENOKU

Anna VANTEREVA

Forwards:

ST #10 Neraveke HO'UMINALU (F, 22)

ST #13 Fyodor VESHCHIK (M, 21)

Terale FIASALA

Valentina RESNYEVA

Renasetevo NANERIKEHA

AM #99 Ivefela NOSELELA (F, 25)

RP Permissions
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: Yes.
Choose my goalscorers: Yes.
Godmod scoring events: Yes.
RP injuries to my players: Please TG me and I'll determine the severity.
Godmod injuries to my players: No.
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes.
Hand out red cards to my players: No more than one per match without TGing me about it first.
Godmod other events: Please TG me first, but most likely yes.

If you wanna collaborate on a match, just TG me! I'm open to all collaboration!

Lastly, please don't use pictures in your RP and say they represent my players. Trust me, they probably don't.

by **Aleirave** » Thu Apr 21, 2022 10:34 pm

A Tale Woven in Time

Kilavi, Klysevia, sometime in 2007

"Nikita? NIKITA?!"

For young Nikita Annedov, his island was the entire world, and oh what a big world it was. The streets of Kilavi were his playroom, and the wilderness outside town were an imagination-filled wonderland. However, he wasn't exploring this wonderland today. Today, he was rummaging through his mother's attic.

"Nikita, where are you?"

"I'm up here mom!" his 7-year-old voice yelled down.
"Nikita, what are you doing up there?" his mother yelled up into the attic.
"I was just researching for a project at school--"
"What project?"
"They want stories about our family history, I just wanted to find out mo--"
"Please, I can tell you everything you need to know, no need to look through those musty old papers..."

Nikita pockets one piece of paper before being forced out of the attic. It was a piece of his family tree.

Later that night, he stared at the paper, for quite a long while. While the piece may not have been the whole tree, and while it may not have told the whole story, it showed a connection between his great-grandpa Pyotr Annedov and a name that was quite famous in Klysevian history: Fyodor Tereyev, the legendary founder of Aleirave. Tereyev was little Nikita's great-great-great-great-great-[insert an inordinate number of greats here]-grand-uncle.

Three days later...

"And that's how my family conquered an island!"

Nikita's class stood up and applauded his story, but his teacher was visibly unimpressed. "Ha ha ha, lovely story Nikita, but I was looking for a true story. I'm pretty sure Fyodor Tereyev wasn't your family."

"But I'm telling the truth! Look Ms. Riyadova, I have proof!" he says, waving the paper he took from the attic.

"Sure you are, ha ha ha... next, I think we have Anna?" the teacher said as a small girl stood up from the seat next to Nikita.

by **Sudilia** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 9:49 am

Start of Something Special

Sudilia enters the Baptism of Fire with solid possibilities for a decent run in the tournament.

Starting XI vs Tjorl:
1 Grant, 5 Williams, 2 Olson, 3 Grant, 4 Lee, 6 Carbonneau, 8 Latour, 11 Lyle, 10 Beauvais, 7 Labelle, 9 Ouiment

Sudilia enters their 2nd ever tournament looking to learn and grow as a team. After a pretty lackluster debut in the IAC, where they finished last in Group C with 3 Points, there was a growing interest in Football after the team hosted matches in the IAC, which had sold out crowds in Manchbury. Now, the team was hoping to gain some valuable points and victories in order to get some sort of momentum for the upcoming World Cup 91 Qualifiers.

Head coach Oliver Thompson had the following to say: "It's a young team with pretty bright and capable players, we're looking forward to our opening match against Tjorl, who had a historic run to the Quarter-Finals of the IAC, and we're looking to get a historic victory against the Surprise Package of the IAC. The team is enjoying their time and travel to Farfadilis. We hope to have great support from our fans and make it a memorable tournament."

The team has been training and while there is seriousness on their faces, there are smiles and laughs as it seems the team is taking this as a great chance to dip their feet into International (or Multiversal) Football and make their mark in the Footballing Universe. The opening game may be pretty difficult, but all the team and fans can do is take it a game at a time.

Go Sudilia! Allez Sudile!

by **Gardelrya** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 10:20 am

Prince Ivar's interview with an international network

Int: Today we are speaking with Prince Ivar of Gardelrya, the premier football commentator in Gardelrya, and the dedicated play-by-play commentator for Torkola Village, a football club based in suburban Oskargard...but I'm sure most viewers are wondering why a member of the royal family is calling football games?

Prince Ivar: Yeah, I get that a lot, but yes, it's true, I am Queen Eira's younger brother, but I would consider commentating football games my true life's calling. I've been commentating since I snuck out of the palace when I was 16, and it's been my job after I left the military...so around 20 years old.

Int: Wow, so it's been about 20 years now hasn't it? What is it like commentating for the same team all these years?

Prince Ivar: Well Torkola has definitely gotten better haha, but yeah, this team has improved greatly since I've been doing play-by-play for it. The days of regulation fears are behind us, and we can definitely compete for the Kongens Liga title, or King Halfdan's Cup.

Int: Didn't they just lose 5-0 to De Vursen before the league shut down?

Prince Ivar: Well um, yes, but that's beside the point. Since the Kongens Liga shutdown for the Baptism of Fire, all of the Gardelryan players have arrived in Farfadillis, and are training for their first game against Tyskerlund.

Int: Indeed they have, what do you think about Gardelrya's team this year?

Prince Ivar: I have to say that I'm pretty confident in this team this year. Tennefjord has developed into a dangerous forward with his speed and cunning, Tim Lang's looking like a great center back, Kristoffersan is still a brick wall as always, and it pains me to say this, but Sig Halvorsan is still one of greatest goal scorers in Gardelryan history.

Int: Is he the greatest Gardelryan to ever play?

Prince Ivar: What? No! Despite what my colleagues would say, I still think that honorific belongs to Harald Kistner, and that's a hill I'll die on!

Int: Haha, okay your highness, Matchday 1 is coming up, and Gardelrya vs. Tyskerlund will be coming up soon, with Prince Ivar providing play-by-play commentary for Gardelrya.

Prince Ivar: That's right, and hopefully I'll commentate Gardelrya's first win! Just as we say at home, in Coach Castelberg we trust, and give em' hell boys!

by **Cardenao** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 12:10 pm

Official Name: Cardenian Men’s National Football Team
Official Nation Name: The Federated Republic of Kingdom of Cardenao
Country Code: CAD
Officiating League: The Cardenian SuperLeague (CSL)
Officiating Body: The Cardenian Football Association (CFA)
Regional Officiating Body: CAFA LigAnaia
Records:
All-Time: 0-0-0
Under Scooter McNash: 0-0-0
Titles: 0
Rank: Unranked
World Cup: Unranked
Nickname: The Blue and Golds
Style: +2.0 out of 5.0

THE ROSTER

PLAYER RESPONSIBILITIES

Head Coach: Scooter McNash
Height: 6'1 – Weight: 178lbs – Age 48 years old – Team:

A striking legend in his younger days, the eccentric Scooter McNash is taking the reigns of the Cardenian national team during our maiden outing. Surprising team selections, exotic formations, outlandish and entertaining media appearances, Scooter McNash is sure to bring his legendary passion and unique personality to the dugout.

Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: B - Confidence:A
Tourn. Coached: None

PRIMARY FORMATION

4-2DM-1CM-3

Roleplay Permissions

by **Efnakia** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 1:02 pm

NOTHING TO LOSE
Dumo hom Ccahor looking to make splash on international stage

FERDULLAELE, Farfadillis – The 78th Baptism of Fire starts tonight in Farfadillis and Mertagne, and the Efnak national team stands poised to make a splash in the tournament for new entrants to the international stage.

Several changes have been made to the 30-man squad which was called up for AOCAF Cup 66, with a series of CmSH Muhdet’ players parlaying their great league form into a spot in the international first team. Centre back Sasmu Kacceda, playing at Yutzie Sorma in Vilita this season, takes the captain’s armband for the tournament, while several 18-year-olds in fullback Kasmab Kaddaske, fullback Tus Kassomka and centre back Ketne Kahamla have transferred their great performances at the Under-18 World Cup marking their first international callups.

Despite the team’s struggles at AOCAF Cup 66, losing all three of their matches played without scoring a goal, manager Tutsem Katemabffu is sticking with the same strategy, as demonstrated by the excellent performance of the Efnak Young Stars at the Under-18 World Cup, where they were knocked out in the quarterfinals.

The Dumo hom Ccahor have been drawn in Group F, played in Farfadillis, alongside Reorganized Portugal, the StrayaRoos Barrier Islands, and Mon Sold. Judging by existing reports made available to Tedok, Reorganized Portugal seems to be a reference to a nation within another universal timeline, which while not unusual in the multiverse is still difficult to comprehend for many. The StrayaRoos Barrier Islands, while seemingly a normal nation themselves, have multiple Emus (of unknown sentience or footballing ability) or their team, further confusing Efnak reporters preparing for the tournament. Meanwhile, Mon Sold appear to play an alternate form of football in their nation, with their tournament roster listing only nine players in their starting eleven, seemingly without a goalkeeper and missing an additional outfield player. It is unknown at this time whether they will actually turn up on the pitch in this formation.

This tournament is expected to be conducted swiftly as an introduction for new entrants to the international stage prior to the beginning of World Cup Qualifiers, with the group stage being held on three consecutive days, with a one-day break before consecutive matchdays for the entirety of the knockout stage. The Dumo hom Ccahor start their campaign against the StrayaRoos Barrier Islands, before playing Mon Sold and finishing their campaign against Reorganized Portugal.

It is expected that the upcoming announcement of the conclusion of coalition negotiations after elections to the Efnak Anuda will not disrupt the performance of the team.

Thanks, dear reader! Buccoss kal, medunffob kasal! Ccam son ccamol teb he kem Efnak-asske bef bet’ tem ssa.

Ccam son omol ohaskof he al onka asske faf kem mat' ass kem Onka Ssaddo Loksob (Ssufuta hom Kodam) 395. Ccam ssal-lak ccamol omabu he Efnakia hom ccamol an Efnak ssaccess "memekmab mef".

by **Mertagne** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 2:12 pm

Matchday One Scores

Group A

Football Tiger 1–3 Fort McKinley, [at Dannin City Stadium, kick off 18:00, played in cloudy weather.]
Kyhun 1–2 Maphidon, [at Spectrum Stadium, kick off 21:25, delayed after two drones collided in mid-air and littered debris on a goal line.]

Group A                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Fort McKinley           1   1  0  0    3   1  +2    3
2 Maphidon                1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
3 Kyhun                   1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0
4 Football Tiger          1   0  0  1    1   3  −2    0

Group B

Aleirave 6–0 Unpleasant, [at Keers Dock Pitch, kick off 18:00, second half delayed as stadium staff had run out of footballs and had to fish for more.]
Gortolekua 5–2 Caribbia, [at Flynn Ar3na, kick off 21:00, in which some fans were mistakenly directed to the Flynn Arena, Euran Oceania Territories.]

Group B                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Aleirave                1   1  0  0    6   0  +6    3
2 Gortolekua              1   1  0  0    5   2  +3    3
3 Caribbia                1   0  0  1    2   5  −3    0
4 Unpleasant              1   0  0  1    0   6  −6    0

Group C

Hopal 1–0 TotoMishin, [at Cop Limy Stadium, kick off 18:45, delayed after all players were accidentally led through a tour of the stadium's museum before entering the pitch.]
Macbon 2–0 Montesina, [at Nine Star Arch, kick off 21:00, in which the second half was delayed due to arch lightbulb change.]

Group C                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Macbon                  1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
2 Hopal                   1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 TotoMishin              1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 Montesina               1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

Group D

Trollish Islands 0–1 Forbidden Territories, [at The Ring Tank Stadium, kick off 18:00, stadium glass covered in green algae after general cleaner strike.]
Cardenao 3–1 Kuraita, [at Spire Campus, kick off 21:00. During the match, rapper White Motif performed a live-streamed secret concert in each team's dressing room, unbeknownst to stadium staff.]

Group D                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Cardenao                1   1  0  0    3   1  +2    3
2 Forbidden Territories   1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Trollish Islands        1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 Kuraita                 1   0  0  1    1   3  −2    0

by **Farfadillis** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 3:03 pm

Matchday One Scores

Group E

New Eestiball 1–0 Serdtgyu, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 4:00, played in surprisingly great weather, considering how inclement the Szoirsian desert can be.]
Stresia 1–4 Delte, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 6:00, played in surprisingly great weather, considering how inclement the Szoirsian desert can be.]

- Group E                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Delte                           1   1  0  0    4   1  +3    3
2 New Eestiball                   1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Serdtgyu                        1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
4 Stresia                         1   0  0  1    1   4  −3    0

Group F

Reorganized Portugal 0–0 Mon Sold, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 8:00, played in mildly uncomfortable weather. Of the hot kind.]
StrayaRoos Barrier Islands 1–1 Efnakia, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 10:00, played in scorching heat.]

- Group F                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Efnakia                         1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
  Mon Sold                        1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  Reorganized Portugal            1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  StrayaRoos Barrier Islands      1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1

Group G

Gardelrya 2–0 Tyskerlund, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 12:00, played in scorching heat. The state of the pitch was subpar, presumably as a result of hosting four other matches previously in that same day.]
Sudilia 5–3 Tjorl, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 14:00, played in scorching heat. The state of the pitch was very subpar, presumably as a result of hosting five other matches previously in that same day.]

- Group G                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Gardelrya                       1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
  Sudilia                         1   1  0  0    5   3  +2    3
3 Tjorl                           1   0  0  1    3   5  −2    0
  Tyskerlund                      1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

Group H

Tekatus 2–0 Potenzia, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 16:00, played in absolutely scorching heat. Hopefully robots don't melt easily.]
Gadria 1–2 Kamisato Ayaka Nation, [at Grand René Skaé, kick off 18:00, played in surprisingly placid and pleasant weather. The pitch, at this point, was anything but, however.]

- Group H                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Tekatus                         1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
2 Kamisato Ayaka Nation           1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
3 Gadria                          1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0
4 Potenzia                        1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

OOC note: if you would like for your match to have happened in another stadium and/or under more reasonable circumstances, feel free to pick any stadium from my IC information and/or come up with something. This is not meant to be restrictive.

by **Montesina** » Fri Apr 22, 2022 4:18 pm

Blackout in Nine Star Arch causes Blackout in Montesina's Defense

This was not the time Montesina won against a national team outside its circle of small, irrelevant, neighbouring nations. However, the 0-2 defeat against Macbon took a back seat to the curious events that marked the first round of group C at the Baptism of Fire.

In the first game, between Hopal and Totomishin, the players didn't show up on the field at the scheduled time. When the referee, concerned, ordered his assistants and the organization staff to go and look for the two teams, they found the twenty-two players taking pictures in the museum halls of the Cop Limy stadium. Nobody understood correctly, but it seems that the teams took the wrong corridor somewhere between the locker rooms, and a guide mistook them for fans.

In the second game, which is the one we are most interested in, we had two blackouts. The first, as the first half ended, was literally a blackout. Apparently, some of the lights that illuminate the nine arches that give the stadium its name in Webster were not illuminating (and it would not be nice if the teams scored goals and they were not displayed in the arch lights, as was so promised by the organization). After an uneventful first half, the referee was instructed to call halftime at the 45th minute so that the lighting crew could get the job done as quickly as possible.

However, the work of changing the bulbs required the entire arc to be turned off, leaving a section of the stadium in the dark. The task that seemed simple took almost an hour, between turning off the arc lights, waiting for the whole system to cool down, removing the burned out lights, putting in the new ones, turning the lights back on, and waiting for the system to warm up again until it emitted the necessary level of lighting for the restart of the game.

In the second half, the Montesina game, which was already cold, did not heat up. The team continued playing their passing game in the midfield, but without being able to pass through the defence line of Macbon, García-Hirsch and Ricky González did not give any danger at any time to the goal defended by Adelfo Circo. Meanwhile, Bernard Dieudonné's men took advantage of Vinotinto's sluggishness and with sharp counter-attacks scored both goals of the match. At 56', Cristian Perazzo had the freedom to pass between the defenders and shoot unmarked, hitting the seams of the back of the net. At 80' it was Clayton Bruno's turn to take advantage of Montesina's defensive failure and hit what would have been a cross, but it ended up hitting the right post and rebounding into the goal, fooling Duhalde, who didn't even have the initiative to move.

After the game, Hugo Medrano minimized the team's poor performance:

"We are still getting the hang of it. You can't demand too much from a team that lost the heat at halftime. We have to look at the positives. Our passing game is still great, but our positioning was not good enough, so we will work on that for the game against Totomishin." Montesina will face Serg Ivanovich men in Cop Limy.

We hope that next time he won't use the excuse that "you can't demand too much from a team that lost the heat at the museum."

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