Independents Cup 17

[Montana Verde]

Stadium: Estadio Metropolitano Máximo Encarnación, Tamramerín, Santa Margarita (cap 41,000)

Upon arrival at the Aeropuerto Internacional de Montatina, Santa Margarita, the first thing many visitors will see is the beautiful bay view over the harbor, which is fortunate as it tends to distract from the fact that the airport terminal is in rubble. A tragic casualty of the civil war that has blighted the Rainforest Republic in recent years, the shelled-out building is a potent reminder of all that has been lost. Except for scrap metal dealers. Air travellers may find many of the small private airfields dotted around the country more efficient, providing they are not currently being used by cartels and/or private military companies. Travel by sea is also an option, with daily ferries arriving in the Santa Margarita port. Lucky seagoers might think they even glimpse a pod of dolphins on their way in! (They’re actually narcosubmarines, but still.) Overland llama caravans may be the slower option, but for the dedicated traveller there’s no better way to experience the native country.

Arrival by helicopter ride is not recommended.

However you arrive, once on Verdean soil you will need your ID papers. This is a minor bureaucratic necessity; under the benevolent Presidenta Jazmín Santángel Hurtado, ID papers merely exist to promote greater social harmony and ensure the security of the state, and the special insignia attached to the papers of all former regime supporters are in no way a cause for alarm. You may also be tempted to exchange your Universal Standard Dollars for pesos. Be very careful, as the disruption caused by the civil war has led to a notable uptick in counterfeiting. Look out for notes featuring smudged ink, poor quality design, and obvious typographical errors; anything else is likely to be a forgery.

In most cases, buses will be the cheapest and most efficient means of travelling around the country. Only Santa Margarita has an intra-city rail service, whose timetable is highly recommended to those wanting to sample some native Verdean comedy. Private car hire is an option for those willing to spend a little more money. The ride-sharing app Fubar is popular and there are occasional violent clashes with members of the Taxi Drivers’ Union, but for a cunning tourist there’s an opportunity to negotiate a better price! A similar spirit of entrepreneurship has entered the accommodation market thanks to the AeroByB app. Everyone wants to be a landlord! Which, given what’s coming down the political pipeline, is a deeply unfortunate career choice… but for now enjoy the low low prices! Or you can seek out a more traditional experience at an EcoñoHotel, the government-run budget chain.

There’s much to enjoy in Montaña Verde, whether it’s whale watching on the coast (an experience significantly improved now that Græntfjaller whalers have left the waters) or enjoying a sunny day on the beach; or exploring the rainforests on a guided tour (unescorted foreigners are advised not to venture into jungles that can contain dangerous animals, poisonous plants, pro-government militias, anti-government militias, and militias that haven’t quite made their mind up about the government yet). The Verdean Andes are a significant trek away from any of the host cities but are an option for those wanting to break up their trip with scenic mountaintop views. Verdean cuisine is rich and varied, from fried plantains and corn cakes to chicharrón and chorizo, and you can’t leave without trying a famous Verdean banana, which is the country’s biggest agricultural export! Well, second biggest… Recent cartel activity should not be a concern for visitors, though.

[Eerinphektia]

RP perms
If my opponent RPs first they have my permission to:
Choose my scorers: Y
Give out yellow/red cards to my players: N
Injure my players: N
Godmode scoring events: Y
Godmode injuries: N
Godmode other events: N

Roster will be edited here when I have time

[Octapolis]

OCTAPOLIS

About Octapolis: Octapolis is a megacity that is contained in a spaceship that orbits the known universe. This megacity is split into eight distinct sections, Districts 1-8, which have their own inhabitants, cultures, and functions. Octapolis is ruled over by the Council of Eight, of which one is the OmegaCaptain. Currently, the OmegaCaptain, K'sh'ar Hynn, a Brinoghan, has decided that a scout craft will be allowed to take some of the best youth footballers of Octapolis (straight out of the Academy League) to the U-21 tournament.

The Species of Octapolis:
Brinoghan: Akin to earth's turtles that stand on their hind two feet, Brinoghans have a tough shell that protect most of their body. In Ocatapois, most of the Brinoghans inhabit District 1, where they are responsible for the star drive and machinery that keep the megacity spaceship running. They are quick-thinking, industrious, and work well together with the other species. In sports, Brinoghans are used best in situations where they can collaborate with others to set up plays. In football, they usually play in the midfield or on the wings, ready to create at all times.

Fashtel: A thin, spindly humanoid race, Fashtel are recognizable by their almost transparent skin and bald features. Monogendered, Fashtel are created at the very place where the previous one died, which has led to a culture that treats death as a celebration. Fashtel find themselves mostly in District 2, where they task themselves being the industrial center of Octapolis, making the various household goods and appliances that are needed for the city to run. In sports, Fashtel are best used in situations where physicality is not needed. In football, Fashtel are a rare sight, but can make appearances as strikers who just happen to be at the right spot.

Kan Goren: A quadrupedal race that average about five feet six inches in height, Kan Goren are recognizable by the twin horns that protrude from their forehead and the glorious mane that flow down their backs. Kan Goren are a race that love to be in community. Living in District 3, Kan Goren are, by nature, strong and hardworking farmers that grow all the food that the megacity needs in order to survive. In sports, Kan Goren are used in situations where power is needed more than speed. In football, Kan Goren make great defenders.

Ysrbi: Yserbi are a hive of insectoid creatures that resemble that of a praying mantis with four wings on the back. Yserbi work well together, being able to communicate with each other telepathically. This makes them absolutely great soldiers, making District 4 the military district of Octapolis. Yserbi make up more than 80% of the Octapolis military, making great foot soldiers, space marines, and the like. Yserbi are used very often in sports due to their telepathic nature, often times being pairs on football teams.

Basalt-Ani: A robotic species that gained sapience during the journeys of Octapolis, Basalt-Ani make up more than 61% of the population of Octapolis, and inhabit Districts 5-8, where they are responsible for everything else. They can vary in size and configuration, there being more than twenty different models. Basalt-Ani are in almost any sports team, and football is no exception.

Gaban'Hasana: Gaban'Hasana take care of the spiritual needs of Octapolis. A priesthood of spiritual beings - other species would call them "ghosts", Gaban'Hasana have been with Octapolis since it was launched from the home galaxy eons ago, and remain there still. The words of the Gaban'Hasana are revered, and their direction has never been questioned. There are nine Gaban'Hasana, and each of them have their own distinct form. As they are the Priesthood, they don't play sports.

---

The Megacity of Octapolis Football Team
The Shining

Management
Manager: J'sh'er Rynn Species: Brinoghan, Age: 217

Starting XI:
GK "Archer" M18 A1B758C6 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 7
RB V Casquel Hun Species: Kan Goren, Age: 24
CB Galiel Hang-Tmi-Oh Species: Ysrbi, Age: 21
CB Mistel Gurr-Sti-Ev Species: Ysrbi, Age: 23
LB T'bh'al Ginseth Species: Brinoghan, Age: 22
DM Murali Species: Fashtel, Age: 24
RW "Chameleon" M09 Z9R320D1 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 12
CM Tolavi Mun-Iag-Ta Species: Ysrbi, Age: 20
LW "Hammer" M15 H3L018V2 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 8
ST Z'ch'li Motali Species: Brinoghan, Age: 20
ST "Jump" M19 B7C816Z8 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 10

Reserves:
GK M Kalai San Species: Kan Goren, Age: 21
RB "Iron" M04 K1L287D5 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 6
CB Furesi Intt-Fji-Lo Species: Ysrbi, Age: 21
CB B'gh'ai Juren Species: Brinoghan, Age: 23
LB "Steel" M08 F3B638G2 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 9
DM Laraka Species: Fashtel, Age: 19
RW Bikaru Makx-Rli-Og Species: Ysrbi, Age: 20
CM "Round" M11 J7K231B2 Species: Basalt-Ani, Age: 13
CM Vakali Oong-Pli-Zo Species: Ysrbi, Age: 23
LW Goretil Species: Fashtel, Age: 23
ST A're'ti Mogav Species: Brinoghan, Age: 24
ST Vinoso Species: Fashtel, Age: 20

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers/goal scoring events: Y
Godmod scoring events: N
RP injuries to my players: Y, but I determine severity
Godmod injuries to my players: N
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Y (max 3 per match)
Hand out red cards to my players: Y (max 1)
Godmod other events: N
Style modifer: -1.278

[Burikinia]

Name: Burikinia
Demonym:Burikinian
Country Code: BRK
Football Association: FFB(Football Federation of Burikinia)
Nicknames: Azure Dragons
Style=+2.5
Formation:3-4-3

Home	Away

Personnel
Staff
Main Coach:Shoji Minami
Junior Coach:Leonel Augusto
Assistant Coach:Andre Culverin
Assistant Coach:Jan Moisette
Team Doctor:Damien Stillwell
Team Physician:Ezia Mercado

Players-Starting 11
GK:Sebastian Lamiroir (1)(NBC Dragons)
Sebastian is one of the best goalkeepers from Burikinia, if not the best. His exceptional reflexes, excellent positioning, and great focus makes him a tough goalkeeper to beat even at close range.

CB:Mikhail Efrenkov (15)(Tsurumiya Phoenix)
Efrenkov, even though he is positioned as a centre back, possesses great speed and reflexes. His tall height makes him an almost constant aerial duel winner, supported with his great jumping strength and unconventional way of grabbing aerial balls by his foot. Unfortunately, this made him the player with the most red cards in the team, with 9 cards.

CB:Florian Nicolescu (13)(NBC Dragons)
Most people think that artistic techniques and defending seldom go hand-in-hand. However, Florian has masterfully combined them, giving opponents a hard time getting past him. Unlike other conventional defenders, he occasionally uses feints and techniques in defending over strength.

CB:Zhang Liyuan (14)(Yunhai FC)
Unlike previous defenders, Zhang uses pure strength in defending. His large body, tall height, and unnaturally fast speed practically makes him an embodiment of a true defender. This man is a dangerous opponent, even for the most skilled opponents.

LM:Takane Kenjiro (74)(Tsurumiya Phoenix)
Takane is a skilled footballer capable of going through adversary defenses with relative ease. He has trained his speed when he was living his live as a former delinquent. He can also crush opponents with his immense physical capability, also owing to his delinquent past.

CAM:Takeda Moriyama (17)(Tsurumiya Phoenix) (C)
Takeda is a chivalrous footballer who commands the entire team as a captain. Trained by his skills as a Lieutenant in the army, he commands the team with elegance as he attacks the opponent with exceptional tactics he had personally devised. Outside commanding, his skills in the field are also equally dangerous.

CM:Lucas Brown (56)(NBC Dragons)
Lucas, son of the CEO of the famed Brown & Falke Holdings, is perhaps more known by his skills as a footballer than his position in the company. Tired of his life, he ran away from his family. One day, he saw people playing football, regardless of race, social status, or age. He joined in, and found happiness on that day. He became so immersed in football that he practiced football for a long time, abandoning his family path. The practice that he had done for years made him into a skillful footballer, worthy of a national team.

RM:Markus Holger (20)(Neuburg FC)
Markus is a footballer who plays as a midfielder for the national team. Trained by his days as a hunter in the vast forests of Litzeburg, his senses are not to be taken lightly. With a strong leg power and stellar vision, he is excellent in crossing. His tough body has also made him a capable defending midfielder.

LW:Luca Salvatore (10)(München Vereint)
An expert street acrobat at young, Luca is a potent left wing. He is a man capable of doing extreme tricks to get past adversaries. His agility and speed also prove instrumental in goals. His abilities in dribbling have often been compared as a magician's; he can make the ball "disappear" at times. Don't let his seemingly calm and composed nature get you; Once you get lured in, there's no way of coming out.

ST:Aoto Mitsuyama (7)(NBC Dragons)
Absolute Power. Hyper Speed. Stellar Agility. Having all three of there, Aoto has been called as a true striker. Also a highly skilful player, Aoto is also known for his explosive acceleration, agility, and creativity when in possession of the ball, as demonstrated by his use of elaborate feints, such as step overs, or rainbow flicks. His volley shot, dubbed "Dragon Blade" by his fans, has also been described as "the ultimate shot", as shown in its extreme power, neckbreaking speed, and pinpoint accuracy.

RW:Ari Setiawan (22)(Yukimura Avalanche)
Ari might not be as bright as Aoto or Luca, but still deadly nonetheless. Trained in martial arts, he commonly uses brute force to penetrate the opponents' defense, and shoots like a beast, with some reports saying that the ball, after kicking, literally mows the grass along its path. By far, he is the most passionate in his gameplays.

If my opponent RPs first they have my permission to:
Choose my scorers: Y
Give out yellow/red cards to my players: Y
Injure my players: Y
Godmode scoring events: N
Godmode injuries: N
Godmode other events: Y

[Stevencousin]

[Sudilia]

Sudilia National Football Team

Goal Song
Style: +1.5

Squad:
Goalkeepers-
#1: Peter Grant
(32 Years Old) (1.86 m)
#12: Anne-Sophie Brousseau
(28 Years Old) (1.80 m)
#23: Eliot Boulay
(26 Years Old) (1.80 m)


Defenders-
#2: Josephine Olson
(26 Years Old) (1.75 m) (CB)
#3: Rylan Grant
(32 Years Old) (1.86 m) (CB)
#4: Felix Lee
(30 Years Old) (1.80 m) (LB-RB)
#5: Erika Jones
(28 Years Old) (1.73 m) (RB-LB)
#12: Natalie Rogers
(31 Years Old) (1.72 m) (LB-RB)
#15: Cruz Beaton
(33 Years Old) (1.78 m) (RB-LB)
#16: Isabelle Valcourt
(27 Years Old) (1.68 m) (CB)
#18: Odin Daniel
(28 Years Old) (1.80 m) (CB)

Midfielders-
#6: Sara Carbonneau
(26 Years Old) (1.65 m) (DM-CM)
#8: Nicholas Latour
(29 Years Old) (1.82 m) (DM-CM-AM)
#10: Joshua Beauvais
(27 Years Old) (1.75 m) (CM-AM)
#14: Alice McLeod
(28 Years Old) (1.68 m) (DM-CM-AM)
#19: Zachary Laprise
(30 Years Old) (1.80 m) (DM-CM)
#22: Maria Otis
(29 Years Old) (1.64 m) (CM-AM)

Attackers-
#7: Emilie Labelle
(30 Years Old) (1.70 m) (LW-RW)
#9: Olivier Ouimet
(29 Years Old) (1.85 m) (CF-ST)
#11: Jordan Lyle
(26 Years Old) (1.78 m) (RW-LW)
#17: Nico Gesner
(30 Years Old) (1.80 m) (LW-RW)
#20: Alice Pearson
(27 Years Old) (1.65 m) (ST-CF)
#21: Gabriella Grant
(26 Years Old) (RW-LW)


Head Coach:
Oliver Thompson (48 Years Old)

Assistant Coaches:
Melodie Leboeuf (43 Years Old), Joel Paiement (46 Years Old)



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

Roles-
Captain: P. Grant
Vice-Captain: R. Grant, Labelle
Free-Kicks: Labelle, Beauvais
Penalties: Labelle, Ouiment
Corners: Carbonneau, Latour

RP Permissions
Choose my goal scorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes, but nothing severe
Godmod Injuries to my players: Yes, but nothing severe
Suspend my players: Yes, but be reasonable
Godmod suspension events: Yes, but be reasonable
Godmod other events: Yes

[Murphtannia]

The Murphtannian coaching team

Manager - Clayton Scott
Assistant Manager - Megan Burke

Formation: 4-3-3, +2

Starting 11:


GK - 33 - Lennox Fox - Having played in a foreign league during his spell at the Hawthorne Kickers, Fox is an experienced player at a top level and the best GK Murphtannia has to offer, however at 33 he is getting on in age

GK - 26 - Chester Miller - Getting rotational minutes at Astrena Rangers makes Miller Murphtannia’s second best GK. While not getting experience at as high a level as Fox, Miller is still a very capable goalie, and many would argue it’s good he actually gets minutes abroad. Miller has good reflexes and likes to act more of a sweeper keeper , always coming out to try and collect the ball rather than stay on his line, sometimes to the managers delight and sometimes to his frustration, a good GK option for Murphtannia to have.

GK - 20 - Travis Bailey - A GK on the younger side, Bailey has won several MPL titles with Villa and recently cemented himself as their number 1, while lacking in international experience he is a good backup for the NT and the Goalkeeper expected to replace Fox once he gets too old

GK/CB - 25 - Elsa Miller - A player with the rare ability to play both in goal and at CB, she is a useful and versatile player. Playing for a top 4 team in the MPL, having finished second with AFC Walsall United, while playing as their number 1 keeper and sometimes as their main CB. While she isn’t as talented a GK as Bailey or Fox she is a very useful player, and decent enough to be 3rd choice.

LWB - 24 - Austin Newmann - Another player with international experience, having played for Dunkirk Athletic, he is a key player at LWB, able to come forward and aid the attack and also having the pace and tackling ability to aid in defence, overall a key defender for the NT.

LWB - 24 - Aveline Ramsey - The starting LWB for Villa, one of the best LWB’s in the MPL, while not as good as Newmann she is a good backup and option for Scott to have. Fast, and skilled defensively and offensively, there isn’t a Winger in Murphtannia who can keep up with her, in fact the squad held a race and the only player quicker than her was Newmann. A very good versatile player.

CB - 19 - Spencer Ellis - Another starting CB for Villa, at only 19 he is arguably one of the best all time CBs Murphtannia has ever had, and at only 19. He has already won an MPL title and came up through the Villa academy. Easily starts for the NT.

CB/CM/CDM - 28 - Abdiallo Murphy - Another versatile defender that Scott has at his disposal, can play CB or in midfield making himself a good option. He also finished second with AFC Walsall United making him one of the best CBs in the MPL, for how much that is worth although he also played a lot of games at CM. He normally starts with Ellis at the back for the National Team and provides some much needed experience at the back for the NT, to balance out the youth of Ellis.

CB - 26 - Declan Ryan - While a backup CB for the NT, Ryan had a good season. Portsmouth City only finished 10th this season but Ryan had an outstanding season,which led to him being called up by Scott for the national team. A competent backup CB.

CB - 16 - Eve Windsor - Another young CB that plays in the MPL, while not as talented as Ellis, she is still a quality CB. However she is believed to have a much higher potential than Ellis, leading many to think she has only been called up as CB to give her experience early to help that development go quicker, and while this is certainly the case Eve is certainly a capable CB already, the future for Murphtannian CB’s is bright.

RWB - 25 - Rico Grey - At 25 Rico Grey is at the midpoint of his career. It was a slow start having to work his way up from the lower leagues of Murphtannia after being released by AFC Walsall. However he now finds himself as Coventry Town United. Having finished 15th in the MPL it was a below average season for the entire team, but a stand out season for Grey who still put in several impressive performances, even managing 10 assists and 3 goals. This season he played well enough to be called up for the NT, where he will most likely be the starting RB, it remains to be seen if he can be consistent with this season's form.

RWB - 29 - Lucas Hayes - Hayes is far more experienced than Grey, and while he may not be as quick or gifted attacking wise as Grey is, he has experience and is a good option for Scott if he ever feels the need to see a game out, although it is unlikely Hayes will be starting any games without a Grey injury.

DM - 28 - Caleb Matthews - Murphtannia hasn’t played with DM’s before, however Scott is bringing a new tactical system to this Murphtannia team. He saw that during the Murphy years Murphtannia were always exposed defensively, and so the introduction of a DM to give more cover to the backline will certainly be a boon to that defensive record. The player brought in to fill that role is Matthews, he had a decent season despite Leicester Town finishing 16th, and will hope he can be the man that improves Murphtannia’s defensive record.

DM - 23 - Daniel Howard - Many see him as the understudy to Caleb Matthews, the player designed to take his place on the team after Matthews retires, but that undersells him a bit. While not as good as Matthews he is quicker, and has a higher potential, and is a decent player in his own right. It remains to be seen however if he can challenge Matthews for a place in the starting 11.

CM - 21 - Belle Howard - By far one of the most talented midfielders in Murphtannian history, and a regular starter for league winners Villa. Having won her first major trophy at 21, she is a key player for Villa, and will hope to make herself a key player for the National Team, and Scott will certainly be hoping she can have a similar attacking output as she does in domestic football.

CM - 20 - Teddy Wood - Wood is another midfielder who had a stand out season in the MPL, playing for AFC Walsall. He plays more on the defensive side of the midfield however can still provide plenty of attacking output. Both he and Howard make up a young midfield but one that has certainly shown it has the potential to be key players attacking wise.

CM - 26 - Seth Russel - While he is a backup, he is more than talented enough to challenge for a starting 11 place in the NT. He brings some experience to the midfield and it is hoped he will amplify Howard and Wood with that experience, but can still be key in play moving forward and gives Scott good options in midfield.

CM - 19 - Aron Stevens - The youngest player in the midfield, Stevens has had a brilliant debut season for AFC Brentford, and looks to be one of Murphtannia’s biggest prospects for the future. Certainly more of an attacking midfielder, a brilliant passer of the ball, and full of energy, he is the ideal player to bring on later in the game as the opposition defence tires itself out. At only 19 being on the bench for the NT is a massive achievement, and the start of a very promising international career.

LW - 22 - Rio Price - Price is a regular starter for league winners Villa and has had an outstanding season for them. A rapid player, who is excellent with the ball at his feet, and a good finisher as well, he is the cornerstone for most Villa attacks, and will be hoping to be the same kind of player for the NT. At only 22 Price is full of energy and potential, and is expected to be a key player for the NT in the future.

LW - 26 - Gary Johnson - Joining Price at LW is his counterpart at Villa. Despite playing a backup role for both club and country, Johnson is a cool head, and a player who has had a positive effect on Price’s ability, working with him in training and in the background. However he is a good player in his own right, still managing to get plenty of playing time from the bench, he is a good backup option at RW.

RW - 27 - Raya Murray - Another Villa player, she had an excellent season with Villa and has been a key winger for most of her career. However it is only now that the NT has seen fit to call her up and give her a chance. However the manager has been very positive about her in recent press conferences and is full of confidence she will be able to succeed and be a key attacking outlet for the NT just as she is for Villa.

RW - 25 - Kate Morris - Kate Morris did her best however she couldn’t stop Sheffield U from being relegated. Largely their own source of goals for most of the season, there has been a large amount of speculation that she will be moving on in the summer, with many considering the Murphtannian Championship to be too low a level for her. However this speculation and relegation hasn’t stopped her being called up to the NT, even if it is as a backup for Murray. Fast paced and good on the ball, her off the ball game needs to be improved as well as her tracking back, but she is still a good option for Murphtannia on the right of the pitch.

LW/RW/ST - 25 - Brian Patel - Brian is a very average player, having just been promoted from the Murphtannian Championship however he has collected another piece of silverware. He never did live up to his potential, although he still has half of his career to go, and many think that he only earns a spot in the NT due to his versatility, being able to play across the attack. Despite his averageness it will be seen how well he can perform in the MPL for Liverpool city, and he remains a good option for Scott to have.

ST/LW/LWB - 19 - Steven Murphy - At only 19 Murphy is Murphtannia’s best player. He will be hoping he can live up to the promise of Murph, Murphtannia’s now retired best ever player and his dad; and like him he is the captain and a ST, although he does provide good options being able to play at ST,LW and LWB. Being the captain at only 19 shows his maturity, and he is a clear leader in every squad he is in. He is composed, an incredibly good penalty taker, good header of the ball, good finishing, passing, crossing and pace make Murphy the best player in the NT, and with most of his career ahead of him. He is the main source of goals for this NT and many will be hoping he can develop into Murphtannia’s best player of all time.

ST - 25 - River Murphy - Being the sister of Steven wasn’t always easy, until his career developed she was the golden footballer of the family, and the one most likely to live up to her Dad’s name. However now at 25 she has been outshadowed by her younger brother. However she is still a good player, and she still has plenty of time to live up to the family name. Previously she was the NT’s starting ST, however has now been replaced by Steven, she is still a very good backup to have, and miles ahead of 3rd choice striker Brian. She is a good finisher of the ball, and always knows when to be in the right place at the right time to convert a chance into a goal, or exactly when to head the ball to get it in the net. Her positioning and awareness are like the nation has never seen. She is a good player and largely the reason Nottingham County United are able to stay mid-table. Both her and her brother are a striker partnership that just might be able to get Murphtannia success on the international stage, something the football mad country has long been lacking.


The Stadium of Hope:


The Stadium of Hope is Murphtannian’s brand new national team stadium, able to fit a crowd of 130,000, and outfitted with the latest in video technology, padded seats, bars, food stands, all a football fans needs. Not only this but it has a high quality pitch. The Stadium of Hope is a stadium designed to host the national team of a country who is football mad, to the point where most other sports are barely paid attention to. It has a high capacity and hosts the final of cup competitions in Murphtannia as well as being the stadium of the NT. Floodlights on all 4 sides of the stadium allow games at night and sometimes the stadium will even host other events such as music concerts.

The Stadium gets it name due to the nature of the NT, with Murphtannia relying on hope that they will get lucky enough for international success, with Murphtannia going to be outmatched in most of their games it is a fitting name. However the NT and Murphtannian fans have hope and always will have hope that one day Murphtannia will have success on the biggest stage of football.






The Kits

Home Kits

GK kit:




Outfielder Kit:





Away kits

GK kit:





Outfielder kit:





Third Kits

GK kit:





Outfielder Kit:

[HUElavia]

Hope for a Hat-Trick of Titles!

HUElavia enters IAC 17 as the two-time defending Champion and No. 1 ranked team looking for a 3rd consecutive title!

HUElavia returns to what is the country's favorite sporting tournament: The Independent Associations Championship. After a close elimination in the World Cup Qualifiers and a subpar & bitter Cup of Harmony, the HUElavian National Football Team is looking to lick their wounds and enjoy the 17th edition of the IAC. Even better for the team is the fact that Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos are the two-time defending champions and are the No. 1 ranked team in the IAC Standings. For the first time in HUElavian Football history, this is such the case (and the 2nd time HUElavia comes into a tournament as the No.1 ranked team).

This edition, it will be a return to the multi-nation hosting format, previously done 8 years ago in IAC 15 when HUElavia was the main organizer, getting many nations to join in with their venues and it was a successful tournament for the hosts all around. This time around, there was strong consideration to submit Estadio Capital (90,000) in Curumba, but HFA President Juan Antonio Barceló said in a statement "We were interested in submitting a venue, but we felt it was too soon to do another edition with a sole venue. Plus, due to a pretty stacked domestic schedule, we had to omit our venue bid. Although, we do hope to host another IAC in the future." Thus, HUElavia will be visiting different nations throughout this tournament.

For this tournament, HUElavia (1) was put into Group 7 with the likes of Alezian Union (70), United Adaikes (45), Harry Islands (UR), and Eshialand (13). A fairly simple group for the likes of HUElavia, but they know they cannot underestimate their opponents. In particular, HUElavia is facing a rematch against Eshialand, who shocked HUElavia in IAC 14 with a 3-0 defeat in the Round-of-16, which was the first time ever Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos were eliminated in that stage. The team will be playing their games at Red Arena, Harry Islands, and The Arena of Dreams, Quintessence of Dust. Regardless, the expectations for this team is, yet again, a semi-final run at the minimum. Then again, this is a pretty daunting feat, especially with the unpredictability of the tournament.

Coach Aveiro had quite a new team to field, especially with major stalwarts of the team such as Lettmann, Font and Honda announcing their international retirements. Now, a relatively young squad has been selected with some youngsters already having good experience with the first team. Some of the surprising newcomers include Rossi-Rigoni (son of HUElavian and San Rafael legend Lionel Rossi-Rigoni), Xuan, Couto, Wakai, and Kholodova. In general, the squad selection is talented and filled with a mix of youth and veterans that can get the job done.

Fans are already getting flights to the Harry Islands and Quintessence of Dust, looking to travel to the two countries during the group stage. The team's schedule is as follows: MD 1- HUElavia vs Eshialand (The Arena of Dreams), MD 2- Alezian Union vs HUElavia (Red Arena), MD 4- HUElavia vs United Adaikes (The Arena of Dreams), and MD 5- Harry Islands vs HUElavia (Red Arena). Matchday 3 will serve as HUElavia's bye day to rest and train in peace.

The team is already setting up camp in Quintessence of Dust, given that the final stages will be there, so Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos hope to train and study film well to prepare for these games.

The quest for the 3rd Consecutive IAC Title will be tough, but it can be done. This is a promising team that carries the hopes and dreams of nearly 800 million HUElavians. Here's to a deep and possibly successful tournament.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

[TJUN-ia]

Name: TJUN-ia
Trigram: TJU
Football Association: FA-TJUN-ia
Nickname: Jaguars (official)/Jags (short form)/Blue and Orange (commonly-used informal)/Draw Masters (satirical)
IAC Ranking: 7th (11.311KPB)

After a WC ended in a penalty shootout, the Jaguars of TJUN-ia were now in an exciting place as the IAC returns - this time in a multinational format centred around Quintessence of Dust. Last time out was absolutely crazy as TJUN-ia finished Top 3 in their group, managed to make a 2nd WC via the playoffs, and proceeded to make the knockout stage for the first time before we well to Nyowani Kitara on a penalty shootout. The knockout phase was a target made for WC95 and yet, we managed that 6 years ahead of schedule. Now, the only goal left is the long-term goal - a competitive TJUN-ia by WC100 - and with plenty of time left, many hoped to see this team rise and rise. Much change has come to this team but David Seems will hope to use his players wisely in his 2nd tournament by himself, with his wife and Co-Manager Li Xiu Ying staying back in TJUN-ia to care for their daughter Amethyst Li Seems. The format is certainly wacky, but hopes are high after a brilliant WC showing and many will hope this team can show its stuff.

Changes
- Maximilian Robertson, Peter von Krjker, Mohammad Malsharma, Prince Carter and Archer Andrews retired.
- VC Peter Ørberg named 4th Captain of TJUN-ia, names Kim Choi-ya as VC.
- Sputnik Brykilawa, Andrade Ñunezo, Kofi Marshall, Yomakaji Shimigatsu and Jackson Smith-Scott named Starters.
- Christian Wollatungi, Chelsea Bluewood, Zelina Marquez and Jose Lozano de la Cruz were promoted from Tier 2 to Tier 1 Subs.
- In order to make a 26-person squad (due to a lack of 2nd backup striker), Kudluk Tootoo was also promoted.
- 3 players promoted from Young Jags: Ivan Kozovikov, Dang Thuyet and Mantfombi Dlamini

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TEAM
STARTERS
Co-Managers: David Seems (JB TJUN-ia, 48) and Li Xiu Ying (CEA, 40) (maternal leave)
Formation: 4-1-2-1-2
Style Modifier: +1.5
Free KIcks: Kelo Ngwemanagawa
Corners: Kelo Ngwemanagawa (R)/ Kim Choi-ya (L)
Position: Number Name (Age, Current Region of Residence, Club Side [if applicable])

GK: #1 Sputnik Brykilawa (30, NAU, Jlinal Cove, Vilita and Turori)
LB: #2 Andrade Ñunezo (31, UAC, Burnley United, Murphtannia)
CB: #3 Hwang Syong-ya (32, CEA, Linden Woods FC, Commonwealth of Baker Park)
CB: #4 Kofi Marshall (31, CU, Battleboro Westside, Cassadaigua)
RB: #5 Peter Ørberg (31, NAU, Nagoush FC, Tikariot) (C)
CDM: #6 Petor Szektkovsky (32, CSTO, Robur Astello, San Ortelio)
LM: #7 Kim Choi-ya (29, CEA, Athletic Club, Hebitaka) (VC)
RM: #8 Kelo Ngwemanagawa (31, AU, Herty Hat Tricks, Kohnhead)
CAM: #9 Yomakaji Shimigatsu (30, CEA, Nagoush FC, Tikariot)
ST: #10 Malhrani al-Kalhrani (30, ArU, Leicester Village, Murphtannia)
ST: #11 Jackson Smith-Scott (26, JB TJUN-ia, Leicester Village, Murphtannia)

SUBSTITUTES (Italics indicate new U21 graduates)

Tier 1
GK: #12 Alex McVerner (29, JB TJUN-ia, Gangers, Hebitaka)
GK: #23 Christian Wollatungi (27, UO, Hipopótamo-Joaxha, Tequilo)
LB: #13 Chelsea Bluewood (26, CU, Concord Heights Suburban, Cassadaigua)
CB: #14 Zelina Marquez (26, UAC, Rutland Dockside, Cassadaigua)
CB: #15 Bruno Ronaldinaho Cervantes (30, UAS, Nagoush FC, Tikariot)
CB: #24 Sadio Mbwekala (28, AU, Gangers, Hebitaka)
RB: #16 Vladov Kolorovsky (26, CSTO, Hipopótamo-Joaxha, Tequilo)
CDM: #17 Vladzov Błaszczykowski (31, NAU, DD Port Nowi, Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom)
CDM: #25 Liken Allen (30, JB TJUN-ia, Battleboro Westside, Cassadaigua)
CDM: #22 Kudluk Tootoo (30, NAU, Jaguar Moreda, Vilita and Turori)
LM: #18 Frederico Jiminez (27, UAC, Xaviers, Hebitaka)
RM: #19 Max van Oosterend (30, NAU, Marlesee 97, Siovanija and Teusland)
RM: #26 Regina McDuff (24, NAU, Great Northern RR Coed FC, Commonwealth of Baker Park)
CAM: #20 Jose Lozano de la Cruz (27, UAS, Xaviers, Hebitaka)
ST: #21 Fernandino (23, UAS, Duomji Tigers, StrayaRoos)

Tier 2
GK: #31 Ivan Kozovikov (22, CSTO, Birikken Ala-Turgan, Kyzhurkistan)
LB: #32 Dang Thuyet (22, CEA, Colonial Sile, Vilita and Turori)
CB: #27 Ons Moukaddem (23, ArU, Bunyoro RSC, Banija)
RB: #33 Mantfombi Dlamini (22, AU, Cednia Rovers, Vilita and Turori)
CDM: #28 Mohammad al-Balochi (26, ArU, Fliserboding, Graintfjall)
CDM: #29 Kendra Robertson (24, UO, Fairfax FC, Cassadaigua)
CAM: #30 Kristina Bay (23, UO, Brenville Blue, The Cordian Isles)

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KITS

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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
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: No

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SCHEDULE (Group 2)
MD1: vs Toluiwa (UR) - The Pentagram Underworld, West Barack and East Obama
MD2: vs West Barack and East Obama (32) - The Pentagram Underworld, West Barack and East Obama
MD3: vs New Portland Republic (UR) - Holy Immaculate Stadium of Saint Grapefruit the Anomic, Quintessence of Dust
MD4: BYE
MD5: vs Abanhfleft (15) - Holy Immaculate Stadium of Saint Grapefruit the Anomic, Quintessence of Dust

[Elmyia]

Itchy Feet Travel Guide
A Guide to Tollington Park (and the surrounds!)

With Tollington Park selected international visitors will be descending on Mosfleet for 5 fixtures across the Independents Cup group stage. Elmyia will need to wait until matchday 4 to host Juvencus, in what will surely be a rowdy occasion, but prior to this Oscioru, Eerinphektia, Belnegau and Juvencus will have the opportunity to visit this historical venue, located next to Mosfleet's bustling port.

Here is what visitors need to know, from arrival to accommodation, from seating allocations to what bar snacks to avoid.

Travel and Arrival

Mosfleet Airport is located just east of Mosfleet towards Beaucester, flights arrive at all times of day from every major international destination and with 3 runways landings are usually timely and smooth. From the airport visitors will be able to get into central Mosfleet within 15 minutes on local rail, and from there to the stadium it is a further 20 minutes including walking. The local railways are easy to use, visitors can purchase either single tickets, or a day pass, from machines at the stations. The machines are operable in all major international languages, and fares are cheap, usually between $0.5 and $1.25 per journey depending on times, or $3 a day.

Pre-Game

The first four fixtures at the ground are to be played in an earlier kick-off slot, which happens to fall at 6pm local time, with the final fixture taking place at 8pm local time, concurrently with the other match in the group. This gives visitors plenty of time to get to the game, or the local area, and soak up some of the pre-match atmosphere. Ticket holders will be admitted to the ground and concourse from 4pm onwards for the earlier games, and from 6pm for the later one.

Another option for those looking to get some pre-match refreshment are the bars on Portsquare. Portsquare was previously a disused square between empty warehouses, but as part of renovations it was bought out by the city council, and the former warehouses have been filled with street food outlets and bars. These cater to international tastes, taking in a variety of foods from around the world, and with a good selection of international beer brands, craft beers, ciders, wine and cocktails for all consumers.

For those looking to experience more of Elmyia and its idiosyncracies, it is recommended to instead head into the areas around the old town and Esquilar. Here you will find a variety of tabernas, bars and cafes serving local cuisine and beverages, as well as the more cutting edge. We would recommend the old town, and particularly the establishments on plaza del granito. We would recommend exploring as many as possible (alcohol tolerance dependent), but if you only have time for one Cafe Iralli is hard to beat. If you wish to experience it like a local, try a fruity glass of the house red coupled with their delicate lamb arrosticini and a bracing shot of grappa to finish.

The Stadium

Once inside, Elmyia have employed a large number of stewards and local police to ensure everyone's safety and security. As normal with international matches, no crowd segregation will take place. Fans will have access to the concourse, and will be directed to their seats. During the game, and at half-time, food and refreshment will remain available. In addition to usual matchday fare, local options include the famous 'poor man's pastry', similar to a pasty, with a slightly suspect meat filling, in addition to some incredibly cheap, nasty red wine available on tap.

Post Game

The renovation of the stadium has included removing all bottlenecks at exits, and increasing the capacity of the light rail stop outside. As a consequence, it is anticipated that fans will be able to be back in central Mosfleet within 50 minutes of full time, or the airport within an hour and 15 minutes. Fans, therefore, will be easily able to fly out within the day, however there are a plethora of options within Mosfleet for accommodation should you wish to take things more slowly. Additionally, the Portsquare hotel takes up one of the warehouses along the port and offers enough rooms to host 1,000 fans.

Should you wish to stay on, we can recommend taking the time to explore what else Elmyia has to offer! Beaucester should be the city of choice for most tourists, markedly more conventionally beautiful than Mosfleet and possessing the most beautiful architecture in the country. A $2 city card gives you access to the metro, most museums and several historical buildings, providing excellent value for money. Of these we would most recommend the Museum of Elmyian History, a visit to the parliament buildings and exploring the suburban town of Munster. If you wish to try even further afield, Sablegaard and Villemont are both beautiful, old, seaside destinations with up and coming food and wine scenes.

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The Overlap
What Elmyia Need to Do

Elmyia go into the Independents Cup aiming at successfully navigating a group stage for the first time in their history. To do so, they will need to either finish in the top 2, or be one of the strongest 4 3^rd place teams. We look at their group to see what they need to do to secure a historic progression to the knockout rounds.

1. Beat the teams you're expected to beat - This point is beyond obvious, but to be successful Elmyia need to win the games they are expected to win. They've had trouble with this before in the past - defeat to the Great Korvax Empire in World Cup qualifying comes to mind - and the tactical reasons have often been the same. Elmyia have struggled in the past when handed the reigns in midfield, sometimes due to short-staffing this area of the pitch, sometimes due to players lacking the quality or organisation to control the game. The switch to 3-5-2 means they will have at least 3 in the middle controlling the game, but the young age of Speight, Chapman and Simmons remains of concern. Against unranked Eerinphektia and Oscioru, Elmyia will need to show they have a solution to these problems.
   
2. Not be overwhelmed by the occasion - Questions were asked after the Cup of Harmony, why did a team that played so well in qualifying suddenly fall apart in the group stage? The performance was beyond underwhelming, Elmyia left with 4 defeats from 4, frequently making big mistakes and struggling in the key moments. The scandal involving Benedetti seemed to destabilise the team, but with such a glut of young players it was no surprise to see some mental fragility kick in. The midfield is staffed by two teenagers and all the strikers are under-21, however the defence has more experienced members of staff, and the veteran centre-back Antonia Chizzo returns after a great season to add some experience to the dressing room. Elmyia's big test in this regard comes on matchday 1, facing off against Belnegau.
   
   Belnegau made it to the Round of 16 last time out, despite a lack of exposure to modern methods. They recorded a solid 7 points in the group stage, then knocked out Sudilia before succumbing to eventual champions HUElavia in the Round of 16. Elmyia will need to demonstrate greater savvy than previously to get through this game.
   
3. Find a way to score goals reliably - Ever since Elmyia's purple patch in qualifying, they simply have not been able to find the crucial goals at the right times. Even employing a teen wolf upfront didn't see them through the Cup of Harmony, and their scoring record remains a disappointing 1 goal a game. The form of Byng and Benedetti was crucial in Elmyia's one period of decent goal returns, but it remains to be seen if relying on two young players for so much will pay off. Massi needs to work to have more of the team chip in, whether it's using Freschi's height at a set piece, or having the wing-backs or midfielders burst into the box.
   
   If struggles continue, many will surely start to call for Froggatt to be crow-barred into the side. Her scoring form and overall play has been magnificent domestically, she not only hits the ball well, she also provides a high volume of dribbles and key passes to team mates. The issue so far has been finding a place in the side for her, she is too attacking to be a wing-back, and playing her centrally removes her out to in runs that are a key part of her game. The two potential solutions are either going to a 3-4-3, which leaves Elmyia short in midfield, or playing an attacking midfielder in the three, allowing her to drift wide from her starting position.

Overall, despite their limitations, Elmyia have a chance at progressing so long as they win the games they should, and find a way to spring one surprise. Having two games on home soil will surely help, as local fans look to bring the atmosphere to spur the team on.

[West Barack and East Obama]

BBC OFFICIAL REPORT: President Donates Fleet of Private Jets to Football Team

By Football Correspondent Gary Obamaniker

Jakartington WB, West Barack - The era of the team bus is over, and now it's time for the team airbus - well, even the that is not at all fancy compared to what the West Barack and East Obama National Team is using for transport after The Most Mighty and Righteous President Obama made his announcement today. The football team will have access to five Zuttpong Swordfishes, state-of-the-art private jets made by Lozhoan manufacturer Zuttpong.

Each Zuttpong Swordfish can comfortably carry five passengers at a time, perfect for the Obaman national team as it needs 22 players and 3 staff members to be ferried to and fro. Of the playing squad, only Charles Obama will not use the fleet of private jets, as he will use his own personal 'Butler' plane from the government fleet. Each plane has its own minibar with Sozha Soda, foosball table, basketball hoops, sushi chef, signed portrait of President Obama and a PS4. All the private jets will be stored, depart from and land at Frederick Obamatown Military Airport, which has multiple lounges with most of the things already on the private jets.

This donation is not so out of the blue, as the Obamen face heavy fixture congestion when the 7 Nations Cup and Independent Associations Cup clash with each other. With the Obamen qualifying for the 7NC finals with a game to spare, they will play many matches in fellow Sonnelian nation Drawkland. Some matches in the IAC will take place at the Pentagram Underworld in Jakartington WB which will not be too bad, but once trips need to be taken to faraway lands in Quintessence of Dust the private jets will be very handy. With the Swordfishes being able to travel at ludicrously high speeds, and also contain foosball tables and basketball hoops to train footballers' skills on their journeys, the excessive journeys will not feel like such a waste after all.

The Obama Carers will play their final 7NC qualification match against Seven Green Mountains in Delaclava, and their first IAC match against New Portland Republic.

[Adab]

Note: In the Adabian timeline, the IAC takes place from June-July 2042. Age is as of June 1, 2042.

The Adabian National Football Team

Football is the ballet of the masses.
-Dmitri Shostakovich

Demonym: Adabian (plural Adabians)
Association: Adab Football Association (AFA)

BACKGROUND
While in the end the team did not qualify for the World Cup last year, they did reach the qualification playoffs, which was no mean feat at all. Their performance earned them an invite to the Cup of Harmony, where they reached the round of 16 to add to another round of 16 achievement at the IAC the year before that. A quarterfinal finish at the Brevity Challenge Cup right after the CoH also helped keep spirits up, alongside providing playing time for members of the squad who had not been prioritized for the World Cup qualifiers or the CoH. Saad Kaykali and his staff have a large talent pool to choose from, but has chosen to stick with the tried-and-tested CoH squad. The question that lingers is when exactly will Enlilbani Yargab and Ephraim Orlev – both 43 – retire, if they are even retiring in the first place; the midfielder Orlev has largely ceded his spot in the starting lineup to Amara Emmita but remains a powerful presence in the dressing room, whereas Yargab is still going strong, even if his listed position as a center forward is more formality than reality, with Yargab now largely acting as a playmaker and dropping deep more often than ever to help link the midfield with the front, leaving the younger players up front to finish the play and send the ball into the net.

KIT

The national team's kits, designed by Ahmad Enlil (the first President of the Football Association) in 1907, are currently manufactured by Shining Sun Company, owned by Rahman Ashurbanipal, businessman and grandson of Emperor Tizqar III.

STAFF
Manager: Saad KAYKALI - Male – born January 20, 1974 (age 68)
At the peak of his power and popularity following Adab’s recent success on the international stage, some around Saad Kaykali have nevertheless noticed that the manager appears tired and worn out at times, which is not very surprising considering everything that has happened around him. But the idea of retirement has not been floated, at least not publicly. Kaykali insists he is “more than ready and excited to help carry this team forward and achieve even greater success”.

Assistant manager: Rashid ABBAS - Male – born February 15, 1987 (age 55)
Formerly a star player in the island country of Faraby, now an associated state of Adab, Abbas now finally finds himself sole assistant manager to Saad Kaykali. He is determined to do his best in this capacity, all the while refusing to discuss rumors that he has greater aspirations. Currently also manager of the under-21 team.

General coach: Yitzhak BENNETT - Male – born September 20, 1976 (age 65)
Variously described as quiet, active, calm, and attentive, Bennett is very much respected by the players, who admire his work ethic, loyalty to the national team, and willingness to listen to them.

Goalkeeping coach: Faishal AR-RASHID - Male – born August 14, 1978 (age 63)
Regarded, much like Bennett, as a stabilizing influence in the national team and respected by staff and players alike.

Physio: Hamza RIDHA - Male – born January 15, 1983 (age 59)
A longtime friend of Kaykali. Widely respected by fellow staff and players for the understated way by which he performs his job.

PLAYERS
Note: I may reveal the starting lineup and substitutes for the next match(es) in my RPs. Should I not RP or should my RP not contain any information regarding the starting lineup and substitutes, then feel free to decide my lineup. Also feel free to make substitutions. (As a rule of thumb, the first 11 players listed here are the usual starters, but this is not always the case.)

GK: 1 – Satchit CHANDRASEKAR – Male – born February 7, 2015 (age 27) – Colonial Sile (Vilita) – 0 goals
Chandrasekar has now firmly established himself as Adab’s best keeper and, if everything goes right, looks set to retain that status for many years to come. His calm, steady demeanor serves him well as the last line of defense against the team’s opponents.

LB: 2 – Tansu ALTUN - Female – born February 25, 2009 (age 33) - Mosul - 0 goals
Fondly called the "heart of the squad" by her teammates. Kind, polite, smiling, beautiful inside and out, she gets along easily with all the staff and players. Yet her soft exterior hides a hard, relentless, unyielding side to her, which shines through every time she is called to perform on the pitch.

CB: 3 – Shania ENMERKAR - Female – born January 20, 2008 (age 34) - Baghdad City - 3 goals (Vice Captain)
Widely seen as one of the leaders of the “female wave” in Adabian football, observers nevertheless agree that Enmerkar has earned her place in the team by merit, rather than merely by virtue of her gender. The other female players in the squad look up to her as their leader and spokeswoman, and it is she who often goes to Kaykali to communicate the women’s concerns and opinions.

CB: 15 – Sarrugi AKSHAK – Male – born May 29, 2016 (age 26) – Lonngeylin Coast (Vilita) – 0 goals
Made headlines with his unexpected transfer to the Vilitan League, although he has more than proven himself as a capable defender at the Under-18 and Under-21 World Cups. Now Yousif Issou’s international retirement has guaranteed him a place in the starting lineup and he is more than determined to impress.

RB: 5 – Sally THOMAS – Female – born October 5, 2015 (age 26) – Beirut – 0 goals
An instrumental member of the Di Bradini Cup 51 squad, Thomas’ continued good performance with Beirut in the Premier League has earned her an upgrade from the benches to the starting lineup in the national team.

LM: 6 – Emma ARTHUR - Female – born November 18, 2012 (age 29) - Tihon (Chromatika) - 9 goals
A representative of the Anglo-Adabian community, the second-youngest member of the squad. Widely seen as a young prodigy before maturing into one of Adab’s best midfielders. Estranged from her family, traumatized and haunted by what had happened to her and Alulim Sinmuballit, she picked herself up and has impressed many with her performance with Tihon in Chromatika.

CM: 7 – Alulim SINMUBALLIT - Male – born September 15, 2013 (age 28) – Mipojoseon (Quebec and Shingoryeo) - 4 goals
The erstwhile baby prodigy of the squad is now older and much-changed from those halcyon days when he and Emma Arthur were lighting up the midfield and causing controversy with their interfaith relationship off the pitch. Since then… a lot have changed, to put it lightly, but one thing is certain: Sinmuballit is determined to prove he still has a place in the national team.

RM: 19 – Amara EMMITA – Female – born January 19, 2016 (age 26) – Baghdad United – 4 goals
Easily runs circles around her opponents with her slick, graceful style of play. With Ephraim Orlev now in his forties and on the verge of retirement, Emmita has found her way to the starting lineup, providing a fresh reinforcement in the midfield to accompany the likes of Emma Arthur and Alulim Sinmuballit.

LAM/LW: 22 – Kastiliasu AKAPTAHA – Male – born March 27, 2014 (age 28) – Baghdad City – 69 goals
Already widely acclaimed as one of the finest strikers in Adabian football, Akaptaha is expected to lead the offense for many years to come, standing at the forefront the regeneration of the national team as the venerable Enlilbani Yargab enters his forties.

RAM/RW: 10 – Rebekah YISSAKAR - Female – born January 20, 2013 (age 29) - Adab United – 61 goals
Brash, funny, happy-go-lucky, all those words have been used to describe Rebekah Yissakar, but do not let her bubbly, excitable personality distract you from the fact that she is one of Adabian football’s best talents, with a deadly finishing touch that secured her a place at the front three along with the great Enlilbani Yargab and the energetic Kastiliasu Akaptaha.

CF: 11 – Enlilbani YARGAB - Male – born April 21, 1999 (age 43) - Baghdad City – 149 goals (Captain)
Although Yargab remains a dangerous presence, many believe that the last World Cup saw the first major decline in his agility; the older striker played fewer minutes than in previous tournaments before being replaced by Nadje Barzani and the goalscoring burden was increasingly shouldered by Akaptaha, Yissakar, and Barzani. With Akaptaha now deployed on the wing, Kaykali is expected to increasingly rotate Yargab and Barzani or play Barzani for entire matches and rest the older stalwart; Yargab understands that the younger players such as Akaptaha and Barzani adapt more easily to the gegenpressing tactics. That Yargab is no longer the lone, deadly goalscoring threat that he used to be is obvious. On the other hand, he does seem to have found second wind as a playmaker and false nine (or rather, eleven), advancing the ball, creating chances, and providing assists with his vision while leaving the final touch to the younger players.

GK: 12 – Akurgal SHULGI – Male – born May 15, 2017 (age 25) – Damascus Steelers – 0 goals
Formidable young keeper whose adept, acrobatic defending dragged Adab to the final of the 14th Under-18 World Cup in Xanneria and Starcom.

LB: 13 – Adnan AL-TIKRITI – Male – born July 20, 2015 (age 26) – Damascus Steelers – 0 goals
Dogged defender who brought Adab to the final of the Di Bradini Cup 51. Flies under the radar publicity-wise but prefers to let his achievements on the pitch speak for themselves.

CB: 4 – George HADAD – Male – born February 14, 2005 (age 37) – Assur – 2 goals
Assur’s impressive performance in the Premier League lately has earned its loyal center-back a call-up to the national team, which just a few years ago no one – including the man himself – would have expected. But Hadad is nonetheless glad for this new experience so late into his career, even if he doesn’t see himself being played that much.

RB: 16 – Nadia AL-MALIKI – Female – born October 15, 2011 (age 30) – Baghdad United – 0 goals
Baghdad United’s surprisingly strong performance in the Premier League earned her a call-up to the national team. Al-Maliki’s composure in defense has been widely praised and regarded as an instrumental part in United’s unexpected domestic success.

LM: 17 – Said ANWAR – Male – born April 5, 2014 (age 28) – Beirut – 0 goals
A highlight of Beirut’s rise to the top of the Premier League, Said has now earned himself a call-up to the national team. While he is unlikely to displace Emma Arthur in the pecking order, his presence nevertheless provides a reliable backup should it become necessary for Arthur to be substituted or rotated.

CM: 18 – Naram-Sin SAMANU – Male – born March 29, 2018 (age 24) – Baghdad United – 3 goals
Commands a huge presence at midfield. Alulim Sinmuballit’s return has largely relegated Samanu once again to the benches, but with the staff afraid of overplaying the latter it seems that they will settle on a rotation between Sinmuballit and Samanu, allowing both players roughly equal time on the pitch.

RM: 8 – Ephraim ORLEV - Male – born April 18, 1999 (age 43) – Mosul – 8 goals
That Orlev’s supposed retirement has been constantly delayed is the subject of many a joke in Adab nowadays. But on his good days he is still one of the country’s best – and toughest, not to mention most experienced – midfielders, and his presence is highly valued in the locker room.

LAM/LW: 20 – Dasia KHOURY – Female – born September 15, 2017 (age 25) – Baghdad City – 0 goals
One of Adab’s breakout stars from the Di Bradini Cup 53, Khoury has settled into a starting role at Baghdad City, playing a key part as the great team tries to restore themselves back to the top of the Adabian football world. Her performance continues to impress, convincing Kaykali to call her up to the senior national team.

RAM/RW: 21 – Abdullah SARSUR – Male – born June 11, 2007 (age 34) – Yerushalayim – 0 goals
Yerushalayim’s rise to the upper echelons of the league has brought attention upon its right attacking midfielder/winger Abdullah Sarsur. Brave, unrelenting, and tricky at times, he will provide a reliable addition to the national team.

RAM/RW: 25 – Omar ABBAS – Male – born January 15, 2008 (age 24) – Mosul – 0 goals
Like Khoury he is one of Adab’s players from the Di Bradini Cup 53 that stood out the most, earning legions of fans with his speed and deadly accurate crosses, exuberant attitude on and off the pitch, and unstinting commitment to his profession.

LAM/LW: 9 – Hakim AL-AMIN - Male – born March 27, 2009 (age 33) - Damascus Steelers – 8 goals
With Jushur al-Kufa bowing out of the national team, his Damascus Steelers teammate Hakim al-Amin has been chosen to take his place – albeit it is usually a place on the benches. Al-Amin is one of Adabian football’s best strikers, gaining acclaim for his power, agility, finishing, and calmness under pressure. Everyone agrees he would have found a place in the starting lineup had it not been for the fact that the national team is already overfilled with younger talent at the front.

CF: 23 – Nadje BARZANI – Female – born March 14, 2017 (age 24) – Beirut – 33 goals
Barzani has made a name for herself as one of the Premier League’s best players and one of its most explosive forwards, alongside Kastiliasu Akaptaha, and is making an impact in the national team in a rotation with the seemingly ageless Enlilbani Yargab. But time waits for no one, and as Yargab rapidly approaches his forty-fifth birthday the indication seems to be that Barzani will soon have her spot to herself.

STADIUM

Adab City Stadium, the pride and joy of Adabian football, was completed in 1940. Located in the northern part of Adab City, the stadium was able to accommodate 40,000 people at the time of its opening. Renovations in 1978 made it an all-seater stadium and expanded its capacity to 55,350. Later it increased to 75,000 following upgrades in 2009-10 and then 76,500 after another upgrade in 2019. It is currently home to the Adabian national football team and Adab City FC.

TACTICS AND FORMATION
The team will use 4-3-2-1, the "Christmas tree" formation, with an emphasis on gegenpressing – immediately working to take back possession after losing the ball and launching a quick counterattack before the opponent can take the initiative. Any opposition players with the ball will find themselves swarmed and cut off quickly. The orientation towards gegenpressing has been offered as evidence of Rashid Abbas’ increasing influence as he seeks to modernize the team in his capacity as assistant manager.

Goalkeeper Satchit Chandrasekar has enjoyed a sudden and meteoric rise from under-21 keeper to first-choice senior team keeper. With Taymour Frangieh now retired, Shania Enmerkar finds herself leading the defense, her limitless energy and tenacity – which she has demonstrated both on and off the pitch – making her particularly suited for this role.

At midfield, Emma Arthur finds herself paired up with Alulim Sinmuballit and Amara Emmita. Their agility and teamwork allow them increased coverage of the pitch and domination of possession, which they skillfully use to quickly transfer the ball away from the opposing team and to the attacking trio of Kastiliasu Akaptaha, Rebekah Yissakar, and the great Enlilbani Yargab. At age 43, the country’s greatest player now largely avoids ostentatious displays of acrobatics and dribbling skills which marked his younger days in favor of simple runs towards the penalty box. In a further concession to his advancing age, Akaptaha, Yissakar, and Nadje Barzani are also gradually bearing more and more of the goalscoring burden, and it is expected that Yargab will be substituted or even not played at all from time to time in favor of Barzani. Yargab (or Barzani whenever she plays) will occasionally drop back to serve as a false nine, leaving a hole in the opposition defense to be exploited by the wingers and attacking midfielders.

RP PERMISSIONS
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Yes
Choose scoring events: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
Make substitutions: Yes
RP injuries to my players: No, and I won’t injure your players either
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: No, and I won’t give red cards to your players either
Godmod other events: Yes, just don't injure or kill my players or staff or prevent them from being present in the next match

Style mod: +4.

If you have any questions feel free to reach out to me via TG or Discord! You may find me on the NS Sports Discord server.

[Drawkland]

DRAWKLAND NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM

---

NATION INFO
Region: Sonnel
Trigramme: DRK
Leader: Iarocav
Currency: Lolad
Capital City: Metropolon
Largest City: Drawk City

---

TEAM INFO
Manager: none
Formation: 3-3-4
Style Mod: +4

---

THE ELITE ELEVEN

Starting Lineup
=================================================================
##   Pos   Name              Age
7    GK    Septimus Xander    ??
10   LB    Elias Keys         ??
8    CB    Nicholas Kingston  ??
16   RB    Craig Bakker       ??
22   LM    Trevor Garnet      ??
0    CM    Dominic Southers   ??
2    RM    Richard Hanson     ??
17   LF    Roger Apollo       ??
11   WF    Mike Rodney        ??
1    RF    Jaxon Madison      ??
5    CF    Ross Hunter        ??
=================================================================

PENALTY SHOOTOUT ORDER

1. It doesn't matter, they're all good at shooting.
2. Just choose 5 at random.

---

FIELD FORMATION

---

TEAM HISTORY
This is the official roster, featuring the Elite Eleven, an independent squad of Drawkians who have played all sports at a professional level for a confusingly long time. The old Kick Corps has been essentially removed, the players let go, and replaced by this squad of ridiculously skilled, annoyingly arrogant, and possibly immortal sportsmen. Nobody knows where they came from, or why DISC decided to replace the Kick Corps with them, but here they are. Just don't ask the baseball fans about them.
Drawkian soccer, and indeed, sporting in general, is mostly offensive-minded. This is reflected in the style indicator and in the formation. Drawkian soccer has not really been exposed to outside influences, and thus may look or feel strange to those used to "normal" football. Nevertheless, the Eleven are still good at what they do, and prize in an enduring game, moving the ball around nearly constantly and keeping energy going, aiming to tire out the opposing team. Of course, Drawkians aren't humans, but you can read about that elsewhere. Despite the fact that usually soccer is a female-only sport in Drawkland, the Elite Eleven have overturned that caveat as the higher-ups deemed them a suitable replacement in the interim as the real Kick Corps hides away for a few cycles and gets their shit back together.

OVERALL RECORD: 267-105-100
WC Sanctioned: 183-69-67
Non-WCC: 84-36-33

TEAM RECORDS
First Match:                              Drawkland 3-3 Averyickan City
First Win:                 Capital District, Ward 1 4-6 Drawkland
First Loss:      Great Caledonia and North Hybernia 2-2 Drawkland (2-2 AET) [3-1 PKs]
Highest Score:             Capital District, Ward 1 4-6 Drawkland
Lowest Score:                    Drawkland 0-0 Ko-oren (0-0 AET) (1-3 pen.)
Best Win:                                 Drawkland 5-0 Sharktail
Worst Loss:                             Farfadillis 6-1 Drawkland
Most Important:                           Drawkland 2-2 Omerica (2-2 AET) [4-3 PKs]
Best End Result:                       1st Place (Independents Cup 6)

---

TEAM KITS
Beautifully Crafted by ediraf.
From Left to Right: Home, Away, Goalkeeper.

---

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers:              Yes
Choose Scoring Events:          Yes
Godmod Scoring Events:          Yes
RP Injuries to my Players:      Yes
Godmod Injuries to my Players:  Yes
Yellow Card my Players:         Yes
Red Card my Players:            Yes
Godmod Other Events:            Yes

As far as these go, I'm fair game for anything. You should know what is and isn't drastic RP, and if you think your RP is on the drastic side, TG me first. But I'm still basically up for anything.
I'd like to request that injuries or cards don't do anything outside of the scope of a single game or maybe 2. Don't want anything tournament or cycle-ending. Red cards should be limited to late knockout stages, and I'd probably think that there should be no more than 2 players red carded per tournament.
The Elite Eleven are sorta oddballs. I mean, they're a group of 11 dudebros, but they're supposedly immortal or something. Keep that in mind.

---

Disclaimers of various sorts:
I don't know very much about soccer. If I RP something weird, it's because I have little to no experience with this sport. But whatever.
If you have any questions about anything involving me, this team, my nation, this competition, life, etc., feel free to telegram me.

[Inkwellistan]

Formation: 4-3-2-1
Kit colors: Black (home), White/Black (away)

Starting XI:

GK #17 D. Galante
LB #10 B. Pall
CB #28 M. Outterridge
CB #1 R. Hazuki
RB #20 I. Iverson
LDM #30 S. Goff
CDM #24 A. Rüzgar
RDM #25 F. Solomon
AM #19 S. Bager
AM #7 H. Chu
F #14 R. Ellington

Substitutes:

GK #2 R. Mason
GK #15 M. Simunović
LB #5 Y. Kerguelen
CB #26 F. James
CB #29 H. Ebalz
RB #9 M. Landers
LDM #16 P. Cloarec
CDM #3 B. Edison
RDM #23 E. Caradec'h
AM #6 R. Kerouac
AM #4 J. Peterson
F #18 A. Minagawa

OOC: I've unfortunately not been able to develop much football lore besides from player names, though I hope to expand on it this coming new year.

[Harry Islands]

Established goals

The Harry Islands Selection would try, as much as possible, to pass the group stage, considering that, Harry Islands never participated in the IAC, the objectives will clearly not be very big, but always, the team is determined to seek more than established, the team is determined and happy, as it will play games at home, certainly under the high presence and passion of the fans.

The team

John Balmer will manage the team, he is an experienced coach, and known for the trophies won with the Blue Birds (Domestic team) in the Giants Cup (1 trophy), Ligue One (3 trophies), Ligue 2 (1 Trophy) and also won the best Harryan coach award in 2014.
The team was scheduled to be fast and offensive, Harry Islands likes to play always pressing the opponent's ball output, and, a counterattack can be deadly for the opponent, the team comes mounted in a 4-3-3. The Team will always try to exploit the speed of its players, making offensive runs and kicking from afar.

The crowd

The fans are extremely noisy, at home, they will certainly try to completely distract the opponents, one of the classic tricks is the boos against the opponent's possession of the ball, in addition to many horns in free kicks, or penalties, or even at all times. of opposing possession, and opposing goalkeepers will certainly face problems with noise, the crowd will try to sing and jump as high as possible, and always, forming concentrations behind the goals. Certainly, the fans will sing a lot, after all, Harry's fans are always loud and very supportive, chants like this(The lyrics don't have to be the same, just imagine something in this rhythm).

Protection scheme and planning in Red Arena

The Policing around the Red Arena will be reinforced with several vehicles, and also by the cavalry, and special troops from the DSPA (Department of Special Police Actions) will be ready and willing in case of any fight, confrontation with the police, or any "abnormal" action of high violence or size occurs, security cameras are installed outside and inside the stadium to prevent theft, in addition to a room set up solely for security and monitoring inside and outside the stadiums. Security around the field will be reinforced to prevent field invasion, in addition to throwing objects on the field.
Hotels in the capital of Harry Islands (Harryville) are very well qualified for such an event, the city and surroundings have the necessary infrastructure, subway, trains, buses, as well as special lines to various tourist attractions, including the Red Arena, all of which for free provided by the local government, in addition to paradisiacal beaches, hotels of the most varied kind, in addition to the government facilitating the entry of IAC tourists in Harry Islands. Due to temperatures between 28-34 Celsius recorded throughout the day in Harryville, all tourist concentration points will be refrigerated, and water bottles distributed free of charge to fans, in addition, of course, to hydration breaks for players on the field, it is Of course, cleaning the Red Arena and other places of interest to tourists will also be prioritized.

The Team's Focus

Team Harryan would start a film session about all the teams from the nations of the group, especially HUElavia, which, being the 1st in the IAC ranking, will be under the focus of John Balmer, the players would go from the first day of training, see videos and analyze the players of HUElavia, but of course, without losing focus on the other teams. The Team will start training at Red Arena, to adapt to the pitch, training will be open to fans (on a smaller scale) and tickets will be available.
The Team will train running, endurance, and study all teams in the group.

[Hopal]

The Hopalian National Team
at the 17th Independents Cup

Kits

Nation Name: Hopal
Trigram: HOP
Nickname: The Suns
Formation: 4-3-2-1
Style Mod: +1.8

Staff
Head Coach and General Manager: Tom Villiers 48 M
Manager Emeritus: David Stoyers 70 M
Goalkeeping Coach: Karin Bartos 41 F
Defensive Coach: Allison Woodville 46 F
Offensive Coach: David Horages 40 M
Head of the Medical Staff: Dr. Liam Samuelson 52 M

Starting 11
GK Alex Gargin 27 M
FB Allison Terrace 23 F
FB Hector Cruz 22 M
CB Kay Redford 33 F
CB Lucy Anderson 31 F
CM Kelly Hart 26 F
CM Peter Fikudal 29 M
CM Erin Tarter 22 F
OM Harris Frey 23 M
OM Uma Frey 19 M
CF Tommy Sanchez 29 M

Reserves
GK Travis Durant 22 M
GK Joilee Parik 22 F
GK Helen Oburhabel 20 F
DF Kaylee Haboshinter 22 F
DF Karos Yamover 29 M
DF Brian Atwood 23 M
DF Kyle Barker 20 M
DF Hunter Dablohaber 22 M
MID Jake Gonchar 29 M
MID Lewis Archer 25 M
MID Kaylee Marks 26 F
MID Wendy Stein 26 F
MID Will Crits 22 M
MID Dave Brettstrom 23 M
AT James Harker 24 M
AT Fred Thom 20 M

Captain: Tommy Sanchez
Assistant Captains: Kay Redford, Peter Fikudal
Penalty Kick: Tommy Sanchez
Free Kick: Tommy Sanchez, Uma Frey
Corner Kick: Erin Tarter, Harris Frey

---

About the Team

Team Hopal is coming off what was widely considered in Hopal as a good performance by the team at the 1st Tea Cup, reaching the Lower Bracket Semifinals (what is usually around the quarterfinals or semifinals at other tournaments). This was widely seen as a win for Tom Villiers, the Head of the Hopalian National Soccer Program, who has been under fire after a pair of disastrous World Cup Qualifying runs. Those were the first two runs for the World Cup, and expectations, while not being especially high for Team Hopal, were hopeful. But those hopes among Hopalian fans would be crushed in that inaugural World Cup Qualifying run for Team Hopal with a 2-2-16 showing, followed by a better 6-2-12 showing in the next cycle. Many Hopalians were not happy with these showings, and there were many out there who felt that Tom Villiers should be replaced as the Head of the Hopalian National Program. The Tea Cup was a new tournament that was having its first run shortly after the conclusion of the World Cup cycle, and Tom Villiers entered Team Hopal in an attempt to win back some of his credibility. It was a gamble for Villiers, as he knew that if Team Hopal had a poor showing that the blame would likely lie on him and his position as the Head of the Hopalian National Program would likely become untenable. He was criticized in the run-up to the tournament for not making many changes to the team after the World Cup Qualifying, as the team was largely the same and many felt changes needed to be made after those last two performances. But Villiers shrugged off those concerns, saying he had full faith in his team going into the tournament. The tournament itself was quite arduous for Team Hopal, probably more arduous than Tom Villiers would have hoped, it was a long campaign in the group stage. But Team Hopal still managed to notch wins in most of their group stage matches, as Tom Villiers eventually experimented with different pairings, and gave his younger players opportunities to prove themselves out on the pitch. Team Hopal eventually came out of the group stage at the top of their group with 10 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses. Team Hopal qualified for the Upper Bracket giving themselves a cushion in the knockout round of this tournament. Team Hopal would eventually lose in the Second Round of the Upper Bracket, being demoted to the Lower Bracket before losing their next game and being eliminated from the tournament. That was considered a good showing for Team Hopal, especially considering their recent history of disappointments, and Tom Villiers was able to hold onto his job. Now he seeks to further rehabilitate his reputation by entering Team Hopal into this Independents Cup. A tournament that Hopal has entered twice before, at the 10th and 15th editions of the tournament, both times being eliminated at the group stage with not very impressive results. Now Team Hopal returns to this tournament with some more hope with a team with some more experience. Tom Villiers is not changing much going into this tournament from the team that finished the Tea Cup. He's made zero changes to his coaching staff, with Karin Bartos staying on as Goalkeeping Coach, Allison Woodville staying on as Defensive Coach, David Horages staying on Offensive Coach, and David Stoyers staying on as Manager Emeritus. Stoyers was the previous Head of the Hopalian National Program, who retired making way for Villiers, with Team Hopals more performances and his job on the line, Villiers brought Stoyers in as an outside advisor. Some think that Stoyers helped Team Hopal achieve its success in the Tea Cup, and Villiers obviously thinks so too, bringing him back to the team for the Independents Cup. On the team itself not much has changed, Tommy Sanchez still leads the team at the front as he always has as the team's only striker and Captain. Behind him are the Frey brothers: Uma and Harris, who have incredible chemistry and goal scoring ability, as has been proven at these last few tournaments for Team Hopal. Behind the two of them are the Centre-Midfielders: there's Peter Fikudal, the veteran member who's been nicknamed the Quarterback of the Team as he's had an amazing ability to set up plays for Team Hopal, and is probably one of the smartest players on the team, but who's hit a bit of a wall at the Team Cup, as the years begin to catch up to him. Then there's Kelly Hart, the feisty, loud, bold, ambitious, determined, offence-minded player, who puts the colour in the team. Finally there's Erin Tarter, the 22-year-old former striker who's was put in as a midfielder at the Tea Cup, where she injected her fast, offensive style of play into the team, she replaces long-time veteran Jake Gonchar in her new position. Further back on defence, at Centre Back are two veterans, Kay Redford and Lucy Anderson, Anderson only recently finding her way back onto the Starting 11 at the World Cup Qualifying after spending a long stint on the sidelines. To their sides at Full Back are younger players Allison Terrace and Hector Cruz, Cruz finally finding his way onto the Starting 11 after for a long time being a substitute. Finally in net is Alex Gargin, the embattled Hopalian goalkeeper, who's struggled to find his way as the full-time following the retirement of star goalkeeper Adrian Turcotte, after being Turcotte's back-up. But Gargin had a good performance at the Tea Cup and may be finally finding his way. He also has no shortage of backups, with three young substitutes, Travis Durant, who made his debut at the Tea Cup, Joilee Parik, and Helen Oburhabel. All of that makes for a team carries hope for Hopal, and faith in Tom Villiers for the first time in a while.

---

Record in Independents Cups

10th Independents Cup - 0-1-3 - 1Pt - 1GF-5GA - Eliminated in the Group Stage
15th Independents Cup - 1-1-3 - 4Pts - 6GF-11GA - Eliminated in the Group Stage

---

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: No
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes
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: No

[Belnegau]

These are troubling times in Belnegau, and for its team of footballers. The great Marshall of this band, Freiherr Johann the Bald has fallen before his time. At the pleading of a certain priest, he returned just a few weeks ago to his estates in Heidingen, where there had been rumor of some trouble among the peasants. That priest, Michael of Bamberg, gave shocking news that some new and dangerous heresy was spreading among the people of Heidingen, and that the natural order of things was upset. Little news has come from Heidingen since that time, except for that of the Freiherr's death, much to the sorrow of his bosom friend, Landgraf Hartwig.

At the same time, the townsfolk of Mühlenfurt, on the river, have grown restive and unruly. Their council of merchants was even so bold as to petition the Landgraf that commoners of the town be permitted to join the football team for the tournament soon to be contested. Ever a man of good sense and morals, Hartwig refused this audacious demand. Football is a game for knights and nobility after all, not common folk who scrabble in the mud like pigs.

Marshall: Ritter Berthold von Ebeling

After the death of Freiherr Johann, Berthold was named Marshall in his place. Called “the Stalwart” by his fellows, Berthold is the personal bodyguard of Lord Hartwig, and is by his side with shield and sword day and night. He is a stern man, not one for jests or merriment, unless it is in celebration of feats of arms. He has, however, devised a brilliant new tactic, which he names most peculiarly as Two-Three-Five.

Keeper of Goal: Ritter Liutprand von Neumark

Sir Liutprand has come only of late to our court, having been until now in the service of Ludwig the Brandenburger. His lands having been ravaged by the Poles and rendered desolate two years ago, he left Brandenburg and came to Lord Hartwig’s court in hopes of earning his favor. He is a shrewd man, dark of hair and of mood. He is slow to act, wishing always first to consider his course. This shall serve him well in keeping the net, that last bastion of defense.

Defender: Junkherr Jörg von Wartburg

Jörg is the youngest son of a family of good standing in Thuringia, but without inheritance, he left home to make his fortune elsewhere. He is somewhat mistrusted by some as an opportunist not above underhanded tactics.

Defender: Edler Treniota the Samogitian

A convert from that tribe of the Lithuanians inhabiting the lands between Livonia and Prussia, Treniota is a fearsome warrior. He strikes his foes with the savagery of a heathen despite his baptism.

Left Midfielder: Junkherr Leopold von Mühlenfurt

A son of a disgraced family, Leopold went his own way, seeking the renowned generosity of Lord Hartwig rather than sink to dirtying his hands with the money-grubbing trade of merchants as his father did. He is ever eager in battle to prove his worth is more than that his family’s name would suggest.

Central Midfielder: Ritter Lothar the Crusader

Lothar has spent the past two winter seasons fighting alongside the Teutonic Brothers as they wage their campaigns against the heathen Lithuanians and their allies the Poles. He is renowned throughout Belnegau for his tireless strength and spirit.

Right Midfielder: Ritter Rudolf the Sheep-Slayer

Rudolf is a thinner man, though stronger than some would judge him, and quick to anger. It is said of him that in his wroth, he once cut through a shepherd’s flock with his sword, rather than wait for the sheep to clear the way.

Left Attacker: Ritter Heinrich von Salza

A distant cousin of the illustrious and highly regarded Grandmaster of the Teutonic Order, the honorable Hermann von Salza. Heinrich is somewhat the target of scorn among Lord Hartwig’s knights, as they say he fears battle. He is a nimble man, quick on his feet, and it is a fine swordsman who can land a hit upon him, whatever others may say.

Center Attacker: Junkherr Klaus von Jeroschin

A newcomer to these lands, Junkherr Klaus comes from the lands to the east under the rule of the good Master of the Teutonic Order. He is tall and thin, but quick of foot and surprises men with great strength for a man of such narrow frame.

Center Attacker: Freiherr Heintz von Heidingen

Son of Freiherr Johann, and still in mourning for his late father. Heintz is a tall, broad-chested man who it is said can carry a horse one hundred paces and drink a barrel of ale in a sitting. Who better, then, to be first in the attack, and assault the defense of the foe?

Center Attacker: Junkherr Kristoff von Oberhaldenau

Kristoff is a young man, who can barely grow a beard at all. He has yet to come fully into the strength of a man, but is as quick as any in Belnegau, and can leap clear over a horse’s back.

Right Attacker: Ritter Wulfstan the Yodeler

Wulfstan is an ever cheerful man, whose love is given as much to song and food as to battle and tourney. A strong man, and a powerful fighter, but if he is quick to battle he is also quick to friendship.

The kit, naturally, shall be full armor as properly befits a knight, quite similar to this, excepting that the surcoat shall bear the eagle of Belnegau, rather than the cross of the Teutonic Order. Being of chivalrous nature, and in the interest of good sporting fairness, the knights of Belnegau shall not carry weapons in their matches.

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
Godmod injuries to my players: N
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Y
Hand out red cards to my players: Y
Godmod other events: Yes within reason.  Please try to keep things plausible to the historical setting.
Style: -2

Image Credit:
David Nicolle. Graham Turner, illus. Teutonic Knight. Osprey. Oxford, UK. 2007.

[Sajnur]

Sajnur National Football Team: IAC 17

Full Roster

Core players in bold

Player                  Age  G  Position       Club

Natasha Kirai           33   F  GK             Capitals Javoser
Alek Khadur             40   M  GK             Stormers FC
Siana Avordyn           24   F  GK             Javoser Pirates

Taulant Haji            37   M  RB/RM/LB/LM    Ciarkhan City
Silja Jorse             30   F  RB/RW/LB/LW    AFC Treason 
Nelson Baziru           29   M  RB/CB/RM       Stormers FC
Hatu Raglan             33   M  CB/RB          Canalave Dragons 
Kabas Verjez            34   M  CB/CDM         Rivers Roskjepa
Olah Pracia             29   M  CB             FK Khadur
Kahala Murje [vc]       32   F  CB/LB          AFC Treason 
Hela Isarghie           34   F  LB/LM          Latrobe Athletic 
Layla Shinwar           33   F  LB/LM/LW       Stormers FC

Toljo Latvala           31   F  CDM/CB         Stormers FC
Aurora Merelu           20   F  CM/CDM/CAM     Stormers FC
Tatiana Pavlov          33   F  CM/LM/LW       Ciarkhan City
Jessica Siafik [c]      36   F  CM/CAM/CF      Kingsgrove 
Tia Parci               32   F  CM/CAM/CF      Stormers FC
Cristiano Karaji        33   M  LM/LB          Marinos Metropolis 
Sian Levici             40   M  CAM/LW/CM      Capitals Javoser

Parjazu                 34   O  CF/RW/RM/ST    Sarim Potato FC (Poafmersia)
Ella Ciuru              31   F  CF/LW/ST/LB    Branvon CD 
Indigo Taylor           25   F  ST/CF/RW/CAM   Stormers FC
Andre Naulo             38   M  ST             FK Khadur
Basuli Maktar           36   M  ST             Vogsphere United 
Elyudi Samiryan         24   O  ST             Rivers Roskjepa
Violet Valera           23   F  LW/CF/ST/CAM   Stormers FC

Manager: Chloe Saukanen
Typical Formations: 3-4-3, 3-5-2, 4-3-3
Style Modifier: +4
Free Kicks: Siafik, Jorse, Parci
Corners: Siafik, Jorse, Levici
Penalties: Anyone on a hattrick, otherwise whoever wins the penalty

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers:        Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events:    Y, but TG me for FIFA style bullshit
Injure Players:               Y
Godmod Injury Events:         Y, but I decide severity
Red Card Players:             Y
Yellow Card Players:          Y
Godmod other events:          TG me
=================================

Jerseys, by Brusseldorf

[Sudilia]

Growing and Going Up!

Sudilia returns to their 3rd consecutive IAC looking to continue developing their team.

Sudilia is making leaps and bounds in their run throughout the IAC. After starting out in IAC 15 as one of the co-hosts in their debut, the team has seen massive growth in their skills and rankings. The same players from that first tournament have returned once again, in what might be the last IAC for some of the players. Today, Sudilia has aspirations to contend for a Round-of-24 spot in the IAC, as they look to continue improving.

Sudilia (30) was placed into Group 10 with the likes of Octapolis (9), Murphtannia (UR), Galician Counties (UR) and Montaña Verde (23). The matches are set to be played at Estadio Metropolitano Máximo Encarnación, Montaña Verde, and Sniffit Football Stadium, Quintessence of Dust. Sudilia's schedule in the Group Stage will be as follows: MD 2- Sudilia vs Octapolis (Sniffit Football Stadium), MD 3- Murphtannia vs Sudilia (Sniffit Football Stadium), MD 4- Sudilia vs Galician Counties (Estadio Metropolitano Máximo Encarnación) and MD 5- Montaña Verde vs Sudilia (Estadio Metropolitano Máximo Encarnación). With the bye being in Matchday 1, Sudilia will have to play a full tournament without rest.

Fans are purchasing their tickets to Montaña Verde and Quintessence of Dust, looking to cheer on the team in their matches. While there is some years away from Sudilia making a strong name to themselves, the team knows that this is a learning experience for themselves and to set up the blueprints for future generations to follow.

Here's to hoping a good opening match for the team.

Go Sudilia! Allez Sudile!

[Valentine Z]

Part 1 – Fate has brought us here… Again. But it’s a good thing! ♥

Exuberant Superintendent T-2000/2904-3 Surveillant Clarissa Alanis Star Breya « La Amoureux Chéri » Millie Taissa Butterfly Mélody Coraline Jolijn Trini Clementine Hollie Samantha Zeta Harumi stepped into the portal from the dropship that was still in Tundra Falls Proving Grounds, Newmanistan, which has still been parked even after 2 days since the final race, and with the new championship being crowned for NSSCRA 13. With a finish of 22nd at the final race, along with results that were not exactly noteworthy, Clarissa said her thanks and see-ya-later to all of the Valentians, gave a kiss to Valkyrie Valentijn Samantha Constantine, and then headed off to her home, clean and beautiful as ever. Situated in the beautiful countryside of Germany, Clarissa’s 2-storey house is truly made by her, for her. After getting the relevant deeds and approvals processed, Clarissa and Valentijn build the house together, from the very first foundation to the very last nail that was used in making the place. There were days when Valentijn was busy with tending to the world, and Clarissa would wait patiently yet joyfully for her wife, a catalogue in her hand as she waited for the day they could finally get some furniture. In the same vein, there were days when Clarissa was busy with tending to the world among many other things such as maintaining Valentine Z’s computational systems, and Valentijn would wait patiently on the porch, a drill in hand and waiting patiently for her wife so that they can start putting the utility infrastructures together. They build their perfect house, sized appropriately for the each of them, in a matter of weeks, followed by painting, decorating, and planting a small garden behind it all. All in all, a larger-than-usual two storey house that is home to the two giantesses, Valentijn and Clarissa have spent a lot of time – all pleasant – in here. Clarissa opened the door, noticing that the lights inside have all been turned on, revealing the colourful and soft pastel colours of the walls. She smiled, putting her luggage beside her as she ran up to the stairs. She knew she was already in there, she must have beaten her there, she thought to herself. Opening the door to her bedroom, the sight of Valentijn lying on the bed, petting their pet calico, has filled Clarissa with all kinds of delight and joy. NSSCRA 13 might not have been very kind to her in terms of results, and preparing for IAC 17 has also certainly been tiring, what with her having to rush all of the paperwork since she nearly forgot to submit the papers and forms on time. However, for that particular moment, all the rush and sports-related things seemed to have just melted, Clarissa lying down on her side of the bed and then started sweet-talking to Valentijn.

Any other day, the two of them would have celebrated with some drinks, parties, and events. And in a way, they actually have done so. Right after NSSCRA 13 was over, it was time for the Valentians to celebrate the winning of one Michael Stefan, and Gwen Tracer Allison Oxton making it to 5th without so much so as a single victory. She was a bit annoyed at first at the idea when the Chase cutoffs were happening, but she eventually learned to play along, perhaps even convinced that she could somehow win the championship title without a win. The podium finishes, however, are perfectly acceptable. It was one of those challenges that are a bit more difficult than it’s worth, as it would require one to be good enough to score points and podium finishes, but not good enough to win. Clarissa gave a bit of a thought into it as she gave Valentijn a hug in the bed, then she eventually waved it away as a thing to think about for another time. “Here’s the best to the both of us for the next season,” Clarissa whispered into Valentijn’s ear, with the latter giving the same reply to her, “Hey, you too, Clarrie. You really could use a Chase finish!”

Keeping it in the spirit of being platonic (and PG-13), Valentijn and Clarissa woke up just fine the next day, both of them still fully clothed, with their pet cat now curled up and sleeping on Clarissa’s head. The cat, by the name of Holly the Calico, who has no relation to NSSCRA driver Holly Aurora Lapia Starlight and Valentian Kitten player Holly Annemiek Gerrieke Van De Hoogte, found by trial and error that she could sleep peacefully and easy on Clarissa, since robots typically do not breathe in their sleep. Valentijn, on the other hand, as much as she love cats, cannot sleep for more than a few seconds with a cat on her head. That morning, Clarissa woke up first, having received a notification of the application that she has filed in a while back. It was from the officials of IAC. Two separate emails were sent by them, one of Valentine Z (specifically, the Valentian Kittens) making it into IAC 17, along with their bid of the football stadium going through, and becoming one of the two places to host the matches. Then there are also the match-ups, three of the names which Clarissa does not seem to recall. Cakranegara, St Saratoga, and Arjunnagar are going to be surprises that could go either way. Then there they are again, she thought – Drawkland, specifically, the Elite Eleven, are going to be taking the helm for the nation. “Very interesting,” she thought to herself as she scrolled through the emails. Apparently so, the Kittens are going to be playing the four matches one after another, with the break only coming at the very end of it. It could either be useful as respite for the possible post-qualification matches, or just yet another R&R in the very case that they did not make it. Still, Clarissa did not want to think too hard about that for the time being. After all, she wanted to give Valentijn a nice kind of surprise.

Giving Holly the Calico a gentle pet as she purred, Clarissa then gleefully got out of the bed and swung open the windows, with Valentijn still yawning and then slowly getting out and stretching. “Morning, Vallie!” Clarissa’s voice chimed harmoniously, Valentijn expressing a bit of surprise but otherwise used to the happiness overload that her wife is displaying almost all the time. It is, however, definitely still more than welcome, that is for sure. “Val, look at this!” Clarissa said, putting her phone right in front of Valentijn’s face and giving her some time to read. The other was still scratching her head and rubbing one of her eyes, then slowly fixated on the words that are in front of her, and finally reading through the whole thing. Joyfulness, also, slowly dawned upon Valentijn’s face was she was once again happy to be hosting the sports events in Valentine Z. It was not so much that she disliked the others that were in the scene of NSSCRA. Perhaps they were simply having a bad time, but she could not simply shake off the fact that most of them left Valentine Z as quickly as possible, even with all the hospitality and cheerfulness that always occupy the place. “Maybe they are still not used to it,” she thought to herself, “Still, new people here- well, er, mostly new people. Let’s see if these people are going to be happy with the big and friendly Valentian welcome!”

[Adab]

A Dance with Football
Snapshots of the lives of the people involved in Adabian football and those associated with them
For a full list of chapters click here. To read all the chapters in one go click here
For an (incomplete) list of major/prominent characters in this story click here and scroll down to the ‘Football’ section

Chapter 72: Getting Our Hands Dirty

AFA headquarters
Adab City

“You know,” Rashid continued, pulling his head back from the desk, “now that… the deal is done, I guess, there’s something that I need to ask, if you don’t mind.”

Naram-Sin’s eyes settled on the man across the desk, as he realized the time would soon come for him to speak. He was the number one person in the room; much as he was loath to admit it, he could sense a bit of a shift in the balance of power, with this new manager – the man who would be under his supervision – dominating the conversation and rattling off his wishes and desires, reducing the AFA President to a bystander who felt he didn’t know when to start speaking.

“Sure,” Naram-Sin affirmed. “What is it?”

Rashid let go of the chair and retreated a few steps to the back. Shifting to look away from Naram-Sin, he started to walk up and down the length of the room, back and forth, sometimes hunched, shooting looks at Naram-Sin, but more often having his eyes wander aimlessly around the room. His solemn footsteps suddenly betrayed a heaviness in his mind, as if he was wondering why he had gotten himself into this. “Why… why do you want to make me the manager?”

“Are you having doubts now?” Naram-Sin responded almost curtly. Oh great, now he’s got cold feet? God I hope not.

“I don’t,” Rashid raised his head and turned to the AFA President as he continued his walk. “But… I gotta say, this is… a very surprising turn of events, to say the least. I’m just reflecting on it now, so, yeah…”

“I just told you,” Naram-Sin said. “You’re the best that I have. You’re the one person that I can trust in this whole affair. Kaykali clearly has abdicated his responsibilities at the very best. At worst he’s turned against us. But you’re here and you are on my side… are you?”

“I am,” Rashid met the wall and turned around for the latest stage of his endless, uneasy walk. “I assume your decision is based purely on… sporting considerations?”

“Obviously,” declared Naram-Sin. “You have no reason to ever doubt me.”

“Do you have my back?” Rashid abruptly turned sharply at Naram-Sin, bringing his feet to a stop and standing nearly at full attention. The restless soldier reporting – nay, asking for assurance – from his superior. “Do I have your backing?”

“You will always have my backing,” said Naram-Sin. “Trust in me and I will trust you.” A brief silence punctuated the weight of his words. Rashid could feel it. The two men gazed solemnly at each other, Rashid instinctively lowering his head a little, a subtle, implicit sign of trust for – or was it submission to – Naram-Sin, and the tide of events now rapidly carrying him.

---

He had settled on a dank corner somewhere in the building, a corridor which he found only after making his way through another corridor. The old, apparently unremarkable façade hid a maze which could be mightily confusing for those who were not familiar with the inside of the building. He had been in this building many times, of course, so he had a mental map of this maze in his mind. At the very least, even if he wasn’t certain which path he should take, he could feel his way through. At least that’s what he thought.

“He’s trying to set up a trap, sir,” Rashid spoke in hushed tones, one hand over his mouth under the old, flickering lamp, another sticking the phone on his ear. His words were so low and breathy he worried his listener could not make out what he was trying to say. “If I choose to stay in this job, then Mr. Kaykali and all the people who dare go against him are out. I have to shoulder the burden, face the chaos and the demonstrations. If I back out of this, then he will reveal your dealings with him and it will be a stain on us and on our state. Either way he is control and he will see to it that his wishes are fulfilled, even to the detriment of the team and Adabian football in general.”

Another period of silence, then the voice – faint and fuzzy, but at least not downright garbled – reached him. “Look, I like Kaykali. I respect him for everything that he has done for the sport, but our interests… it is our duty to look out for them-“

“Only a guarantee that Mr. Kaykali will still be at the helm can calm the situation,” Rashid insisted through rushed breaths. “I don’t have his stature, or the respect that he commands, or his list of accomplishments, or- sir, the point is that I cannot possibly do this, at least not without-“

“Without what?”

“Without risking further chaos and disorder in this city. If these people, say, storm the headquarters and wreak havoc and force Araqasdah to step down, you know very well he will bring us down with him. That man needs to come to his senses but he won’t!”

“You literally accepted his job offer, which I must say is the prudent thing to do.”

“To maintain the appearance of calm on my part, and to prevent him from thinking that I’m also betraying him.”

“That is the right thing to do,” the Prince of Faraby assured him. “Steady your nerves, you are doing the right thing. You are here to make sure that man keeps his mouth shut, and if you have to serve him for the time being to ensure it, then so be it. You are doing the right thing. You are popular with the people too. Cast yourself as… a caretaker, or… an unwilling servant or something like that, who is here to maintain a sense of stability. You just need to stay close to him, make sure he can trust you and me, and I’ll think of what to do next.”

---

Taymour Frangieh’s house
Adab City

“We are but actors on the great stage of history, playing our part in this great event, but we don’t know the ending yet and we are- we have to write the script to make sure we get that good ending,” proclaimed Amarutu Tabira. As eloquent as he could be, Taymour Frangieh could have done without the maverick politician’s resort to flowery language, or his installation in him and many others the responsibility to ensure a good ending to the current disorder. That much was obvious and needed no restating from Tabira.

“And you believe that we can ensure that good ending if we… unite our forces?” Taymour tried to clarify.

“Exactly,” Ama promptly said. “There can be no separation between politics and sports or whatever here. There is no hiding place. Emma and Alulim are the figureheads of this movement, whether they like it or not. The people identify with them, their sufferings, the hatred and discrimination they face. Do you know the great composer Shostakovich once said, ‘Football is the ballet of the masses’?”

“I never heard of that,” Taymour replied. “And what are you trying to say with-“

“Football is the sport of the masses,” Ama continued. “People who can’t identify with politicians identify with footballers. And it so happens that… Emma and Alulim are going through the same things that many people here, especially minorities, have undergone for a long time. This isn’t just Emma and Alu’s struggle, or the struggle of the people out here on the streets. This is our struggle. We, you and I are in this together. The tie of rebellion, the desire for freedom and justice unites us, unites you and me.”

“When we first brought our demands to the AFA…” Taymour breathed in deeply, then exhaled slowly if unsteadily. “…we never thought that… people would come out and… use this opportunity to air a variety of complaints. Equality in this and that, end to whatever discrimination they’re facing… we’re trying to bring change to the AFA, yes, but then the wider society…”

“The unjust football association is but an organ of the unjust government,” Ama resolutely intoned. “This is so much more than just Emma and Alu and football. Join us, and together we will bring justice to all who have been wronged by the government across the country. Let me come to your house or wherever you are, and we can start making plans together.”

We don’t even know where Alu is right now. “I never thought it would come to this.”

“There are decades where nothing happens,” Ama said, “and there are weeks where decades happen.”

“Lenin,” Taymour immediately shot back.

“Ha! You know your stuff,” Ama exclaimed, actually sounding a little taken aback that Taymour “knew his stuff”.

“I don’t agree with him on everything, but I read books too.”

“This is the time,” Ama proclaimed. “Decades will happen in the following days and weeks. The people are rising to break their shackles. And in this great drama, it is time for the heroes and freedom fighters to stand together and stand their ground against the monstrous wave of oppression that will soon come down upon them.”

[Harry Islands]

Red Arena
Locker rooms

The players were in the changing room waiting for the Coach, they would talk about the games at the IAC, with a special focus on HUElavia, they start a dialogue with each other:

J. Donaldson: "We need to focus on improving our cooperation, especially you, Artur" Artur quickly speaks: "Nah" Matt replies: "Artur, take it seriously, you need to start giving more passes, everyone gives you the ball whenever they can, but you'd rather lock the ball and lose the move than pass and we score a goal, you are a great person, but remember that football has now become our job, not our hobby" Artur is silent and everyone continues to wait for Coach, a few seconds later he arrives.

Coach: "Great, I'm here and I need to talk to you about some serious things, we managed to bring the group stage games to the Red Arena, some of course, not all, but we need to take advantage of this moment to move forward with the full support of the fans, they they will fill the stadium, they will try at all costs, distract and provoke the opponents, we need to take advantage of this to provoke fouls, or even, expulsions for them, they will certainly be furious, unconcentrated, and awkward with so much noise, surely they are not we are used to it, but we are, our climate will also help, I suppose that, in at least 1 game at the Red Arena, the weather will be rainy, I'm sure you know how to play very well in the water, and we need to be more focused on the team from HUElavia, they are dangerous, and we cannot lose at home"

Soon after this conversation, the Coach sends the players to the field to start the warm-up session before the exercises, soon after, they would play among themselves forming two teams, and the only player who was not going to participate would be doing some movements with the ball.

[Trolleborg]

Greetings, compatriots!
It’s TTV, and right now we are in two places at once – one our crew is right on the stands of 1st December Stadium, where game between Aquatian and Burikinia was about to begin, and other at the QoD’s Northern Astrodome Stadium, because our national team was here to play against Hopal.
I must say that the assignment of the company's employees into two teams almost caused strife in the company, and in the end it was necessary to determine who went where by lot.

So, QoD team, how are you doing there?
- Hello, dear viewers! So far so good. While looking at the rankings, our team's chances of winning seem kind of preferable, and our lads start the tournament as runners-up, but nevertheless we all certainly look forward to the IAC group stage games with some trepidation. The defeats that the team suffered in this tournament in different years are still fresh in the memory of the fans. We all know how painfully the nation experiences the failures of its athletes. Moreover, the national team plays in an updated line-up, will be forced to change its location by way, the opponents in the group are strong and militant teams, and in addition, the games of world club tournaments are still expected, and everyone, of course, have deep down, behind enthusiasm and chanting, some uneasiness of how business will go in such a circumstances. But, of course, no matter how you look into the past and no matter how you warn, the fans expect a brave fast game and good results from the team. Judging by the starting line-up announced by the head coach, the team enters the field with approximately the same players that completed the last World Cup qualifying tournament – apparently, Morten Troghil give another chance to a whole group of players who did not prove themselves at a level that justifies their inclusion in team pool. Hopal team in a fighting mood, having good run in the Tea Cup, and clearly wanted to move up in the table of ranks in the world. All in all, game promises to be tough for our team.

- Thanks for the info! Now it's the turn of the team of journalists sent to the stadium on December 1 to join broadcasting.

- Hello, dear viewers! The game between Aquatian and Burikinia is about to begin, and both teams making their international debut in this game. Although one would expect otherwise, almost all the seats in the stadium, which was expanded for the IAC games, are occupied. Which is understandable: the inhabitants of our country are hungry for international matches and the atmosphere of big competitions. Let's hope that the duel of teams starting their way in world football will be beautiful and uncompromising in a good way, and noisy support will be undoubtely provided to both teams. We remind you that our stadium will also host another Hopal vs Space game, and then two matches of our national team, against Space and Aquatian teams. Space, by the way, is the only team of the group that our lads have ever met on the football fields - in the last IAC tournament, and won game 1:0.

Thank you dear colleagues! TV viewers, stay tuned, the broadcast of the match between the national team and Hopal will start soon!

[Eshialand]

The Eshialand Soccer Federation
Baptism of Fire LXXV Champions
Roster for Independents Cup XVII

Stats updated to the end of WCC Cycle 90. Assume all caps and goals are... absolute garbage at this point. Contact me if you have any questions, thanks ^-^

Order has been restored.
The king was successfully found in Aleirave, and subsequently returned to Eshialand. As for Fiona Reval, a national referendum booted her out of office, and a replacement for Prime Minister has not yet been found, although let's be real Michael Wylen's pet hamster would do a better job than her.

What are the Owls' goals in this year's IAC? Surviving with an ounce of morale left would be good. Yeah, we'll do that.

First international: Aut-Ves-Nat 1-3 Eshialand (BoF LXXV)
Best win: Eshialand 5-0 The Jovannic (WCQ LXXXIX), Annyeong Oppa 0-5 Eshialand (IAC XIV)
Worst loss: Eshialand 1-5 Sendhang (WCQ LXXXVIII), Abanhfleft 5-1 Eshialand (CoH LXXX), Eshialand 2-6 Zwangzug (WCQ XC)
Most goals for: Eshialand 5-1 Qzvarkian Qaz (pre-CoH LXXX), Eshialand 5-0 The Jovannic (WCQ LXXXIX), Eshialand 5-3 Kiltoch (WCQ LXXXIX), Juvencus 2-5 Eshialand (IAC XIV), Annyeong Oppa 0-5 Eshialand (IAC XIV), Eshialand 5-3 Lisander (WCQ XC)
Most goals against: Eshialand 2-6 Zwangzug (WCQ XC)
Highest-scoring match: Squornshelan Remnant States 4-4 Eshialand (WCQ LXXXVIII), Eshialand 4-4 Felinetopia (IAC XIII), Eshialand 5-3 Kiltoch (WCQ LXXXIX), Qasden 4-4 Eshialand (pre-IAC XIV), Eshialand 2-6 Zwangzug (WCQ XC), Eshialand 5-3 Lisander (WCQ XC)

Kits (thanks to Txakhaxi for the kits and the logo!):

Style modifier: +2.

Head Coach: Kenneth MORGAN (M, 48)
All-time NT Record: 44-21-45
Formation: 4-3-2-1

The Roster (starting XI as of the first match in bold):

Goalkeepers:
GK #1 Alexander KOLEK (M, 35) - Buffalo Niagara FC
84 caps, 14 clean sheets
GK #11 Christian MEERS (M, 31) - East Akusha CF
16 caps, 3 clean sheets
GK #13 Elizabeth MICHAELS (F, 26) - Pittsburgh Eagles
1 cap
Defense:
LB #7 David GORMAN (M, 32) - Eshialand City Tigers
93 caps
RB #8 Sarah SILVER (F, 34) - Cincinnati Siege
96 caps, 2 goals
CB #14 Carter LANGLEY (M, 29) - Cleveland FC
5 caps
LCB #20 Dominique LaPLANTE (F, 30) - Ottawa Geese
96 caps, 2 goals
RCB #22 George HABISBRAUER (M, 30) - Eshialand City Royals
89 caps, 7 goals
LCB #23 Andrew TRAVERS (M, 29)* - Detroit Wolves
3 caps
LB #36 Tommy HOPAL (M, 22) - Eshialand City Royals
LB #39 Kyle RIKERS (M, 23) - Cleveland FC
2 caps
RCB #42 Evan STEVENS (M, 31) - Ottawa Geese
1 cap
Midfielders:
RM #5 Michael HORNER (M, 30) - Eshialand City Royals
2 caps
RM #12 Melissa CAREY (F, 32, CAPTAIN) - Detroit Wolves
100 caps, 25 goals
CM #15 James CALACE (M, 27) - Buffalo Niagara FC
2 caps
LM #16 Lysander MOORE (M, 33) - Pittsburgh Eagles
28 caps, 3 goals
CM #19 Avery MacDOUGALL (F, 31) - Detroit Wolves
99 caps, 16 goals
LM #32 Lucas MEILLING (M, 23) - Cincinnati Siege
65 caps, 20 goals

Forwards:
LW #9 Alyssa LONGFIELD (F, 31) - Pittsburgh Eagles
100 caps, 23 goals
RW/ST #10 Jacob HARRAN (M, 28) - Eshialand City Royals
86 caps, 44 goals
RW #77 Faith KRUPP (F, 27) - SSD Borgonovo
8 caps, 3 goals
RW #21 Jonathan HARPER (M, 32) - Cincinnati Siege
2 caps
ST #24 Alice CARROLL (F, 27)- Cincinnati Siege
91 caps, 45 goals
LW #33 Cameron CROWLEY (M, 30)* - Ottawa Geese
2 caps
LW #53 Bradley DAVIS (M, 21) - Blich

*Players marked with an asterisk are not likely picks for the 23-man squad, but feel free to include them for variety's sake if you so choose.

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/DM 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/DMing me about it first.
Godmod other events: Please TG/DM me first, but most likely yes.

If you wanna collaborate on a match, just TG or DM 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.

STYLE MOD: +2.

[Eshialand]

A Fresh Start, A Familiar Face

Well, here we go again, I guess.

After the tumultuous time that was the year 2025, Eshian soccer fans would rather not remember... anything that ever existed in the past, really. It was time for a clean slate, a fresh beginning. However, when the group stage draw came in, it became clear that the Owls wouldn't be allowed to forget their past.

Their first match was going to be HUElavia. Yep, that HUElavia. Ghosts of IACs past were going to haunt this tournament from the very start, and fears abounded that they'd stay until the very end.

Eshialand's history against HUElavia was... mixed, to say the least. This would be their third meeting in four IACs, and there was a score to settle between them. Their most recent meeting, in IAC XVI, was the beginning of a downward spiral in their group stage performance, going from a strong 2-0 start before their match to limping their way into the playoffs after their 0-2 loss in that match and subsequent 0-1 to Saterun. They'd win in the round of 20, but that would be all, as Octapolis would hand Eshialand their second straight Round of 16 exit.

However, that's not the only time Eshialand would play HUElavia in the IAC, and the other time they met was special. IAC XIV in Belnegau was the very first time the Owls would head to an IAC knockout, and their first opponent in the Round of 16 was HUElavia. Despite all odds, the Owls would blank the second-ranked team in the IAC rankings by a massive 3-0, before losing their best shot at the medal games yet with a loss to Kriegiersien.

Although that IAC XIV match was three years ago now, it's still in the back of Eshian fans' minds, as, since los Amarillos won both IAC XV and XVI with undefeated group stages in each, Eshialand were still the last nation to have defeated HUElavia in the Independents' Cup. You'd best believe Eshian fans were convinced that they could be the ones to end that 17-match undefeated run.

Everything after that, the United Adaikes, the Harry Islands, the Alezian Union, none of that mattered. The first match against HUElavia would be what their dreams were made of. It was time for Kenny Morgan's team to deliver just like they did all those years before.