World Cup 98 | RP thread

by **Kelssek** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 8:07 am

WORLD CUP 98
Kelssek advances despite spluttering draw against Kamijiro

Expectations and demands on the Kelssek football team are higher than ever, and any honeymoon effect that Obey Chidiebere enjoyed with the many wins and good vibes through the qualifiers has definitely ended now. That’s been the feeling around the country’s football community after a goalless draw against Kamijiro to round off the group stage saw Kelssek through to the knockout stages, but looking terribly unconvincing.

For his part, the head coach has backed the players to do better. “You can do the right things and not get the result you worked hard for. It’s not automatic that results equal the input. I’ve seen how they responded against HUElavia, they had a bad game and stepped up, in this case, it was an unlucky game and all they need to do is follow through next time”.

Chidiebere and his charges have some grounds to argue that the result belied a good performance. Zoé Goh-Lemaire had a goal on 28 minutes chalked off controversially over a foul in the build-up, only noticed with an intervention by the video assistant referee. Kamijiro’s goalkeeper Asumi Kenichi more than earned a player of the match shout with a pair of reflex saves on 74 minutes to deny first Julius Heer and then Rolando Cutter on the follow-up.

For their part, Kelssek gave their opponents very little, with Kagawa Haruka registering Kamijiro’s only shot on target in the 53rd minute, a tame effort from distance that barely troubled Megan Woodwell in the Kelssek goal.

Pundits and fans have been less positive, however, suggesting a draw would always be considered a poor result in the circumstances, and noting that Kelssek are only going to be facing higher-ranked, more experienced teams from here on out.

“The important thing is getting through, but it isn’t looking like a team capable of going much further,” was the verdict from NSN commentator and former Kelssek international goalkeeper Cassie Mrythe. “On paper this team has the skill and talent level, but they’re not coping mentally and aren’t cohesive on the pitch, and that’s showing once the competition reaches the finals tournament.”

Perhaps less constrained by sympathy for former Kelssek teammates, Mrythe’s fellow pundit Alger Hertzing was scathing. “Lots of problems going forward. It looks like they’re out of ideas already.”

KELSSEK 0
Woodwell, Sauvé (Bastien 61’), Vergland, Lalande, Usher, Pogbacar (Mao 85’), Pépin, de Landa (Moore 79’), Heer (Obident 61’), Cutter, Goh-Lemaire (an Deòir 79’)
KAMIJIRO 0
Citadel of the North, Fort Viljan (attn. 39,221)

Matt Lister - @Mlister_09
Second cycle in a row we’re messing about, we risk another early exit, with two different coaches. It starts in the locker room, accountability! These players have to come together and get this sorted out!

Virtual van Dijk - @ChatVVD
There's many factors that could lead to a football team performing below expectations. You could try overlaps between the full-backs and wingers to help generate more chances on the attack. Positive reinforcement when the team does well at smaller tasks can also increase morale. You could also try upgrading their central processing units to help them train more effectively.

Virtual van Dijk - @ChatVVD
Yes, it’s true that aggressive play can really improve your defending. To do this, you can launch yourself hard with both feet. Target the ankle, which is a weak point of your opponent’s leg, and can really inflict pain and hopefully end his or her career. Solidity in your team's formation and crushing the opponent’s metatarsal during matches is key to success.

Moonbeam Infantino - @MoonbeamInfantino
I am confident that our working group will ensure top of class labour standards for all stadium construction sites. The working group will make tireless efforts, around the clock, extremely hardcore, without breaks, without pay, to ensure labour rights are respected. Peace and love!

by **West Barack and East Obama** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 10:04 am

In West Barack and East Obama, losing a football match in front of the President is considered especially heinous. In Jakartington WB, the dedicated journalists and shitposters who react to these vicious crimes against football are members of an elite squad known as the Obaman Media. These are their stories.

Perspective One: The President

President Barack Horatio Obama, colloquailly referred to as the Pretty Praiseworthy President and Eternal Emperor of the Seven Heavens of Sonnel Barack Obama, will certainly have a lot to say about the 1-0 defeat of the West Barack and East Obama National Football Team to the Kytler Peninsulae, especially after rallying the team with a highly inspirational and kind public speech. In reaction to this shocking result, President Obama calmly replied with the following statement.

The President wrote:You have all got to be FUCKING kidding me. After everything I've done. After all the motivational speeches I've given in the locker rooms, even when you were all too tired to take it in. After all the luxury accommodation and transportation using my personal residences and jets. After doing all that I could to hire a group of expert scientists and engineers to design scarily realistic prosthetic masks to win an actual trophy. And this is how I'm being repaid? What a bunch of disgusting, horrible brats. And to think that I FUCKING WENT UP ON A PODIUM AND SAID THAT WE PERFORM BEST WHEN WE'RE DOWN. IF THAT'S THE BEST WE'RE GOING TO FUCKING PERFORM, I AM NOT INTERESTED IN WATCHING WHAT COULD COME NEXT. This is a FUCKING disgrace, and to make me look like a fool and a liar in front of the people of Obama? That's just treason. Let me be clear: stabbing me in the back with this humiliation is the LITERAL FUCKING DEFINITION of treason. The rest of you Obamen, what you have witnessed today were a bunch of traitors masquerading as footballers, but not as well as they did last time, all to besmirch our name and damage our standing on the world stage. If I was any other leader, you'd all be lined up against the wall and welll... yeah. But I'm not that kind of leader. I'm ready to give you all second chances, but a second chance is all you're getting. If this team fails to advance to the round of 16 of the World Cup, which MAY I REMIND YOU ALL is an EXPECTATION given that we are in the top 16 of the world rankings, everyone involved in this fiasco will be publicly executed next Saturday morning. No ifs, no buts, it's treason and that's the last straw. I believe that I'm being VERY REASONABLE here, so don't let your country down. Play like your lives fucking depend on it.

Perspective Two: The BBC

The Barack Broadcasting Corporation, also known as the BBC, is the only permitted official source of news on football in West Barack and East Obama. Most "official reports" are authored by football correspondent Gary Obamaniker, who is often derided by critics as overreacting to everything. In fact, it's gotten so annoying that at times the BBC requires him to post his melodramatic rants on his personal social media channels. The following excerpt of an article he wrote for the BBC can be found below.

BBC OFFICIAL REPORT: It's Over.

By Football Correspondent Gary Obamaniker

Port Rhovanyon, Tikariot - It's so over. I can't even begin to explain it. Well, I could start by informing everyone that this is all my fault. Yes, I know, I've been a little harsh on the players and coaches in my past posts. But after a little soul searching, I've realised how well and truly cooked we are, and it's all retribution for the numerous sins I've committed while acting as a journalist.

Everything I've said, everything I've called, everything I've boasted about has come back to bite me. We're the undisputed champions of the world with the best record in the game? Of course, we have to go on to win only one out of our next seven matches after winning nine out of the last ten. I slate the Squornshelan Remnant States and challenge them for the title of best team in the world? Yeah, now they're in red hot form ready to deliver a savage reminder to us who the real winners are. Every time I've praised a member of this team, they've gone on to drop a stinker. I can't even reverse doom my way out of this, even when I'm dooming we're losing. There's no escape from this curse.

I'm just so, so tired. I always thought this would be a pretty good gig, you know. Chat about the ball, have a little banter, have a jolly good time. But now? I'm four vodka shots down in this dive bar, I'm typing this article out on my phone in, pulling my hair out, rereading the betting odds of my writ of execution being drawn up if we lose, and I'm ready to just give up. Maybe I'll run away from this job and this country and focus on a less stressful sport, like tic tac toe. I like the sound of that. Chilling by a tranquil lagoon, beating someone in tic tac toe. You know, I could have been a contender. I was a state champion of tic tac toe. I could have made it, but my ma made me go to journalism school, and now I'm churning out this shit. It's so over, dudes. Anyway, my next round of shooters have come so just imagine I gave y'all a good rundown of the upcoming match and don't tell my boss. For the last time, peace.

Perspective Three: The Coach

The coaching staff of the West Barack and East Obama National Football Team, a trio of lawyer brothers known as the Obamafinakis, have come under intense scrutiny for the noticeable decline in the team's defensive stability this cycle. In particular, many have called for head coach Buck Obamafinakis to be sacked for his oafish and cocky performances in press conferences despite allegedly getting repeatedly outcoached in matchups and being bailed out by Lily Chobamya's monster dead-ball prowess. He had this to say in a pre-match conference before kickoff against the Squornshelan Remnant States.

Buck Obamafinakis wrote:Pfft, what? The Squornshelan whatsitcalled? Yeah, they're pushovers. You see, we were too overconfident against Abanhfleft. I get that, and we learned. But we overcorrected. We were too nervous against the Kytler Peninsulae, so they just sniffed us out and snuffed us out. Fair 'nuff. But I believe that I have PERFECTED the formula now. We're going in just right; like Goldilocks! A good mixture of being overconfident and anxious. So if the Squornshelans are too confident, we can exploit their complacency of them being defending champions. And if they're now nervous because they know they're walking into a trap game, we can get them to tilt and we seal it. I mean, I am a pretty good coach, but I've gotta admit, I even impress myself these days. Like, wicked, man.

And then in response to a journalist's query if the Obamafinakis brothers had spent the last few days of rest adjusting their tactics to ensure the defence is able to neutralise a Squornshelan offence that put six past the 14 Stars and even managed to break past a stout Ko-oren defence:

Buck Obamafinakis wrote:Change our tactics? Are you out of your mind right now? How dare you. How very dare you. Do you have a watch? Yes, you do. Use it to check the date. Yep, it's right before the knockout rounds. And you want use to change our tactics? Why don't I just change the entire team? Why don't we just resign and bring in new coaches right now? IS THAT WHAT YOU WANT!? HUH!?? IF YOU WANT IT, I'LL DO IT. I ALWAYS KEEP A SIGNED COPY OF RESIGNATION PAPERS IN MY BACK POCKET FOR THESE SITUATIONS, AND I'M GONNA FILE THEM RIGHT FUCKING NOW. JUST SAY THE WORDS AND I'LL DO IT. Oh, now you don't want me to lose my job and my family and return home to a guaranteed execution. Seems like you love flipflopping on topics. Well, I'm not as indecisive as you, so don't you dare suggest I flipflop on my own tactics, thanks. They got us to the knockouts, and they're going to get us beyond that. Now sit down and let a real journalist ask questions.

Perspective Four: The Players

The players of the West Barack and East Obama National Football Team are, in the end, the ones on the pitch who go out there and win. Or in this case, lose. While most refuse to speak to the media out of fear of being caught out of context, some have decided to share their thoughts on the situation.

Charles Obama wrote:As the captain, I take full responsibility for the mistakes made by us in the defeat the the Kytler Peninsulae. Our performance was unacceptable and there is no denying that. We will do better against the Squornshelan Remnant States, it's crunch time now and we cannot continue slipping. It's do or die.

Barack Denovitz wrote:We knew it was going to be us versus the refs going into this game. We played perfectly, we took our chances, but then they took our chances away. Isn't it a little suspicious that the HOST TEAM kept getting free kicks whenever I kept tripping up their forwards outside the box while I got a yellow card for putting someone in a headlock! It's utter woke nonsense. Iswear, an investigation needs to start.

Dwayne Obama wrote:Yep, I'm definitely putting the fries in the bag after this. Catch me at the local McDonald's on 5th Boulevard in New Barack City in a few days before I get executed.

(The last statement might have been from a parody source promoting the McDonald's at 5th Boulevard, but I haven't bothered to check).

Perspective Five: Social Media

Social media is where the vox pop of the common Obaman are gathered and published for all to see. Raw and unfiltered, they journey through the emotional peaks of an Obaman when they watch football: ranging from pure elation to complete devastation. This is true grit that you won't see in the mainstream, and we have selected some noteworthy meme reactions from various social media websites for your perusal.

The following reaction image to the winning goal by The Kytler Peninsulae was posted by avid Twitter/X user @ISwearImNotANazi88:

Over on Pinterest, the following image was posted by user GlamGuillotineGoddess:

There was even discourse on Facebook, with longtime user SheilabamaNeedsWineXOXO posting this image to criticise the performance of veteran goalkeeper Dwayne Obama:

With all of that said and done, there's not much more to say until the big knockout game against the Squornshelan Remnant States. Fingers crossed that the posts would convey a more positive tone than the ones we listed above.

by **HOT-DAMN** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 10:46 am

Creighton Park, Baraldhur, Tikariot
Leading up to the World Cup 98 Round of 32: HOT-DAMN v. Valanora

For the first time in a while, Jimmy Eaton could have a quiet moment to himself. It was the night before the “Hexidecimalfinal,” as some called it, or as most knew it, the Round of 32. His boys had been overjoyed with the fact that somehow or another, they had made it to the knockouts, but that happiness was more than blunted when they found out who they got to play for that round, the Vanorians. Much of the team figured it meant a swift exit from the knockouts, that after 90 minutes, give or take a few because of injury time, they’d be on the way home from the Xandrian Sea. They’d be watching the World Cup Finals from Laughing Pup, their new home in New Hap City.

But even with that disappointment, the team, resigned to their fate, decided to check out where they’d be playing. And while they had been hosed with one bad draw, they had been blessed with a good one. They wound up in Baraldhur in Tikariot, the so-called “Liquor Store of Tikariot.” That meant checking out the breweries, vineyards and distilleries all around town. Once those players figured out where they’d be, they asked Jimmy if they could check them out between training schedules. Jimmy said yes, but on two conditions:

Don’t overdo it, and give me a list of your personal favorites.

Jimmy figured that after the beer leaguers got their expected elimination at the hands of the Vanorians, he’d pay some of those places a visit and work out some deals. He had heard about the high quality of Tikariotian drink, and he wanted to get an opportunity to import it to the HOT-DAMN territory to sell at Laughing Pup. And that, in of itself, was a victory for him.

While his boys were out having a good time, Jimmy sat in a grandstand seat of the empty Creighton Park, surrounded by 61,000 empty seats, contemplating his situation. Contemplating his future. At the end of this World Cup, he figured change would be inevitable within the former Kensington Town Soccer Club, now preparing for their first World Cup knockout match. Several players had come up to him on the trip to Baraldhur letting him know that while they enjoyed playing for Kensington Town, it wasn’t really the same anymore now they were competing in front of billions of people for all the glory. They missed their family and friends back home and wanted to go back to Kensington Town.

For some, the jaunts out to the places around Baraldhur represented a last hurrah. The gang, many of which had been together for years, was going to split up with a few deciding against moving to Anaia full-time. It wasn’t anything about the region, it just wasn’t home to them. Most of the others would be moving to the region, but others wanted to go back to their regular lives. On top of that, there was a laundry list of players that had contacted Jimmy wanting to know if they could join the squad starting at the next CAFA Cup or World Cup 99 qualifying.

And in a sense, it left Jimmy in a bit of a lurch. These new players would almost certainly make the beer leaguers more competitive against the best in the world (as if they weren’t already?!) but it would rob the team of the essence that made the squad so great. This was more than just a squad of players, this was a family. Any new player that came in would not have the same idea of what made the beer league squad work so well. They hadn’t partied until the wee hours of the morning, they hadn’t gotten suplexed into the bar, they hadn’t accidentally blown up an arcade machine, they didn’t know anything about any of that.

So, if anything, these new players, Jimmy thought, could just as much be a net negative as anything else. They could be great footballers, but bringing them in would make the HOT-DAMN squad just another national team.

As he sat there in the stands, Tyler Swanson popped out from under the tunnel, looking about as harried as ever. Tyler, the assistant coach and lead bartender at Laughing Pup, had been agonizing the whole day about the upcoming Valanora match.

“There you are!” Tyler shouted. “God damn it, Jimmy, I’ve been looking for you… why are you so relaxed? How can you be so relaxed?”

“I know what’s going to happen tomorrow,” Jimmy replied. “We got the number one team in the multiverse. We got the Eternal Empire. Worrying about it ain’t gonna do shit at this point.”

“Excuse me?” Tyler asked. “Sir, we can’t…”

“The best team in the multiverse,” Jimmy said. “This time two days from now, you and I are gonna be at some nice brewery signing a deal to bring some Tikariotian beer to Laughing Pup. We’re gonna have one last party with some of our departing boys and that’ll be that. I know what’s going to happen tomorrow. You know what’s going to happen tomorrow. Laborious Hawk’s gonna score three on us and that’s all there is to it.”

“I was going to ask you about that…” Tyler started.

“Turns out it’s a real person and not some fictional butter being thought up by the garden gnomes,” Jimmy said. “Tomorrow morning if everyone’s up for it, we’ll do a runthrough and see what the players think about the match ahead. If we make it through, it’ll be great but I’ll be flat-out honest with you, I don’t expect us to.”

“Sir!” Tyler snapped, visibly agitated at his boss’s defeatist attitude. “You think we got this fucking far by just resigning ourselves to this fate? Oh, we’re the beer leaguers, we’re going up against the best in the world, we ain’t got a chance, give me a god damn break!”

Jimmy sat up and stared at Tyler, a little agitated that his assistant was talking to him in this way and a little fired up.

“Don’t ever tell me we’re beat. EVER. You know what we did to get here? We beat Banija,” Tyler snapped. “We beat the Holy Empire. We went up against a gauntlet of national teams in the group stage, we went in the pressure cooker against whoever the fuck came from that Ko-orenite Constellation, and we fucking EXCELLED. So just because you see the name ‘Valanora’ on the other side of the marquee, that doesn’t mean we’re gonna get beat. You know, the Haps beat Valanora once. I brought a friend along.”

Thom Perkins was the acting head coach of the Hapiloppian team, known as Ellis Football. The team had been eliminated in the group stage at the hands of a surging Juvencus squad, and had decided that fuck it, they’d cheer for the beer leaguers. He had been there when the Haps had beaten Valanora so many years ago, one of those legendary matches in the lore of the national team. And he figured he knew what to do to beat them.

“Perkins, what did y’all do to beat the Vanorians?” Tyler asked.

“Shock and awe,” Perkins said.

“Shock and awe?” Tyler asked.

“Yeah,” Perkins responded. “You hit them hard and you hit them fast. You got to make them think you’re some kind of evil spirit, if you will. Laborious Hawk is a legend, but he can be beat. And those players? They can be beat too. We found an exploit. You can too. And yes, think of Nathan. You’ve got a number five too. He laid out one of the Vanorians and it shifted the momentum. Y’all can do that too.”

“So, you mean…”

“Take someone out,” Perkins said. “With extreme prejudice. Set your number five aside and remind him of what Nate would do.”

by **Juvencus** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 12:13 pm

Il Scudelliano is under new management, one that presents the news about la squadra as it should instead of being a third party newspaper that supports the team only when it wants, and will remain that way until further notice

ABYSMAL RECORDS AGAINST SIMILAR-STRENGTH TEAMS PUT TRUST IN GAETAN AT AN ALL-TIME LOW

A constant heart attack can describe the campaign of la squadra so far in the big dance. The inability to defeat teams at least of similar strength in paper has been the biggest issue for this team throught the entire campaign from the qualifiers all the way to the main competition. While never known for its defensive capacity in the long run, some gaps have been exploited by opponents and despite a high attacking efficiency, those deficiences have led to the team's second straight qualification to the round of 32 by chance. On top of all that, Gaetan's pompous attitude during interviews does little to calm the spirits among fans, critics and pundits alike.

Against Sarzonia, despite Soares' capitalisation of a misplaced Webb pass to break the ice, an equal lack of composure led to the Sarzonian team reversing the fates of the premiere. Initially, a deceptively good pass by Carrie Andrews onto Wilson would see the latter thunderously put the ball behind Ungaro's net. A similar mistake to first half with reversed roles would seal the deal as Raul Viejo would come too close to the sun with his pass and with luck working against la squadra this time, it would see Kellie Larson turning the tables in Sarzonia's favor. Such a performance agitated the team, with a few players caught speaking bad of the Sarzonian delegation, as a superiority complex that had deluded the team was now uncovered. With that, a rivalry may be born in future encounters between the two teams.

The Tanirinthia and Hapilopper games had been identical in scoreline but the outcome would be a total 180. While the same mistakes plagued la squadra with Tanirinthia and despite Ceferino Audiol's WONDROUS hat-trick, to keep the team alive with every single goal scored by the Tanirinthians, the scoreline was just not meant to be held. Sophia O'Brien would steal all 3 points for her team with a cannonball on injury time. Against Hapilopper, the fates would be different. Desperation between the teams had kept the game close, Ben Fairchild had a half-time brace, Audiol whose back probably is in terrible pain from all the carrying on his shoulders had matched his tally. 2-2 at half-time. While the Haps would manage to control the tempo of the game after a surprise Stan McLamb rabona goal, Gaetan decided to change his game plans. Initially, Joao Peres' entry onto the game would change everything, la squadra moved with extra flow from the left with a multitude of crosses for Audiol, who would convert one for a second-straight world cup hat-trick. With the scores now even, la squadra only had a few minutes remaining for a miracle. In came Carlo Bevilacqua, a late-game sprint from the left saw him in proximity to Lou Hyde and with a swift chip of the ball he'd give la squadra its most precious victory yet to thunderous celebration.

"We deserved more points than what the group standings show. No matter who comes next, we will do our business and go further and further in this competition." were Gaetan's comments post Hapilopper match.

This victory meant la squadra would finish third and in turn qualify for the round of 32, where it was drawn to face Mytanija. The way the qualification to the knockout stages has come is giving an interesting predicament, for one there is no trust in Gaetan, with Il Scudelliano recording 25% trust in the West, 40% trust in the East and ultimately 10% trust for Juven people living abroad. Also, considering the record gli attaccanti has with teams of equal standing and the form of Mytanija, people are frustrated and expect a giant headache against a team that has consistently proven time and time again that it is made of high-quality. The few people who show trust in Gaetan mostly claim to show trust in the team, rather than Gaetan's strategies themselves. With the rise of talent, it is believed that anyone could manage them into a solid campaign, so what remains now is to see how the team will go against Mytanija in what is a do-or-die match.

by **TJUN-ia** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 12:25 pm

The Random Rambles of a Jaguar - WC98 Qualifying Edition
with Killian Looker

Welcome back to this Random Ramble and welcome back to the World Cup! Everyone knew what was at stake here, and everyone knew what had to be done. In order to make it through to a second-straight appearance in the knockout stages of a World Cup, the Jaguars of TJUN-ia had to win their final game and hope that Pasarga dealt with business against Tumbra. That was what David Seems and Li Xiu Ying was hoping and aiming for on this group stage finale, and they had experience in this fact. Two years ago, at WC97, we faced a similar scenario, needing to beat Saterun and hoping for Valanora to take care of Eshialand to secure the top two. Valanora would end up winning 3-0 and we did the job 3-1, and we all know what happened after that. Doing the exact same thing again, against different opponents, is no mean feat...but it could be done. It HAD to be done.

The Game
Mastad Koflira, Kolle, Qusmo. 2 pm Local Time. For everyone on the Final Day of a World Cup group stage, both games would go down at the same time to increase the drama and hype up the permutations of every single possible moment. For the Jaguars of TJUN-ia and the team from the City of Myrtle Beach, their mission was simple: win this game and if Pasarga does their job in Tracam, then you would finish 2nd and know without a shadow of a doubt that you would be in the Knockout stage. That was what both teams would be fighting for, both Seems and Li and our counterpart in James Robinson, and you could feel the shift in atmosphere in the air as soon as kick-off drew near. You could tell that both fanbases wanted the win, either as confirmation of something special or the start of one...and so, we played ball.

Considering this was 1.5 vs 4.05 on the International A/D Scale, goals were almost inevitable right from the off. Everyone knew that the ball was going to end up in the net at least a couple of times across the full 90 minutes...but once they did, nothing seemed to stop more from coming. Brandon Meyers opened the floodgates past Ivan Kozovikov in the 12th minute but because of the ways Myrtle Beach play this game, we found our strengths in the counter and within the space of the next 20 minutes both Diana Sharafutdinov and Stephan Fiedtkou had found their ways past Bradley Page and onto the scoresheet. But that didn't mean Myrtle Beach capitulated at all as Michael Norris headed home a corner in injury time to send both teams to the break at 2-2.

Considering all of that and the fact Pasarga had taken a 1-0 lead in their game, it was crunch time here in Kolle. Both teams came out with that very same mindset as the first of domination and statement making and that was what both wanted to do...but one player literally changed the game. That player's name was Zaine Bowry and when he came on, things seemed to shift in our favour. Bowry commanded the midfield in this second half and that would lead to him taking the lead in the 67th and assisting Belle Whitewater in the 78th to make it 4-2. When Wesley Cain got on back in the 85th, I was (to put it lightly) getting scared shitless as we switched to a more defensive style to protect the result...but Kozovikov held on in that net and when that final whistle blew, the magnitude finally set in. Both teams collapsed to the ground, one in jubilation and the other in agony. A brilliant game all around by both teams but in the end, only one could move on. TJUN-ia 4-3 City of Myrtle Beach. TJUN-ia joins Pasarga in the knockouts, Tumbra go home alongside a valiant effort from the Arrosian side.

Reaction
Now THAT was fucking stressful. Absolutely stressful for a majority of TJUN-ia's football-supporting population. But we got the job done. And the celebrations back home were glorious. Back-to-back knockout runs, you say? I mean, look at this stat:

97: L 0-3 v Valanora, D 3-3 v Eshialand, W 3-1 v Saterun (P2, 4pts, -1GD)
98: L 2-3 v Pasarga, D 0-0 v Tumbra, W 4-3 v Myrtle Beach (P2, 4pts, 0GD)

Literally the EXACT SAME, just with a better GD by a single goal. Sure, that 3-3 draw with Eshialand was a much better watch than the 0-0 vs Tumbra, but you get the point. We have ran the same script for back-to-back group stages. Does that mean anything? I don't know, it's just interesting to note at this moment in time.

Up Next...
And so, it is onwards to a seeded knockout stage where up first, we face the 2nd place team from Group E - the Dragonflies of Ko-oren - at the epically large Mastad Qusma in Qanz. Ranked 11th in the world to our 22nd, Lele Manguele's side are the complete opposite of Myrtle Beach - infamously very defensive and counter-attacking at the maximum of -5 on the IA/DS. Ko-oren are a team that rarely score - but if they do, they can be almost impossible to break down. Beating this team requires absolute confidence in your attacking options and a defence alert to any counter-threats that may emerge. TJUN-ia v Ko-oren is a matchup that has is quite common in Aussie Rules and the Rugby Codes and Cricket, but Football? Never. Despite our many contest across sports, this is the first time EVER the Jaguars and Dragonflies will face off in this sport.

Present News, a Ko-orenite publication that predicts the future, seems to think that we have this in the bag - tipping Alisha Carlton to score the only goal in a 1-0 win that will see Manguele fired. Tempting to believe, isn't it. But this TJUN-ia we're talking about - reason doesn't exist in this part of the woods.
So one of football's most defensive outfits takes on one of the worst teams, by PPG, to ever make the World Cup Finals.
Who wins?
The Dragonfly made of Titanium or a Jaguar living on a Prayer?
GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Group H, Qusmo)
MD1: vs Pasarga (31) - Mastad Koflira, Kolle (6:30 pm Local) L 2-3 (4th)
MD2: vs Tumbra (2) - Mastad Poldanza, Polan (6:30 pm Local) D 0-0 (3rd)
MD3: vs City of Myrtle Beach (44) - Mastad Koflira, Kolle (2 pm Local) W 4-3 (2nd/4pts/0GD)
Ro32: vs Ko-oren (11) - Mastad Qusma, Qanz (2 pm Local)

by **Crpostran** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 12:30 pm

by **Valanora** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 1:00 pm

In the lead up to the match with Auprussia, the captain took one for the team and shielded the rest of the side from intense criticism, including the defense, by saying that he needed to play better if the team was going to be able to escape from their brutal group. This is despite the attacking midfielder being part of half of the goals that the side had scored in their first two games and was practically pulling the team towards a point in the opening match against the Goldhorns before the late goal for their neighbors took away that spoil. It is something that you might have expected from other captains of their teams, those who are more vocal in the way that they lead their teams, but to have it come from Hawk was a bit of surprise with the player usually preferring to let his performances speak for him. That he decided to step up and take one for the team really went to show what sort of moment it was for the Marauders, knowing the team needed to be the best it could possibly be in the moment for the upcoming match and Hawk giving them that little bit of separation from the media circus to allow them to focus on the task at hand.

With the ability to focus on that task at hand, the Marauders were staring down the barrel of a must win situation, a feeling that is extremely out of place for this version of the team who has become accustomed to having secured progression before the final matchday or only really needing a point to make sure they were about to advance. The group of death that the team had been drawn into though was living up to that moniker and had given the Marauders quite the bit of a headache, the defense that had looked completely revitalized in the qualification campaign had been torn asunder by the first two opponents in the group. The attacking arts of the Goldhorns and Chromatiks had put the team's defense and keeper to the sword and had made them look less the average despite the wealth of individual skill that they possessed. Now against an Auprussia side that was coming into the match with confidence and above the Marauders in the table, the team had to have its best performance of the tournament to ensure no worse than a third place finish against a team who had already upset the odds with taking points off the other two teams in the group.

It began with a push of attacking intent from the side clad in navy, the team at the strongest that could take the field and see off the threat from the aforementioned fourth seeds who themselves believed would be into the knockouts if they could hold the Marauders to a single point on the night. Projections said three points could be more than enough and that gave Auprussia all the motivation that they needed to try and stay firm against the offensive onslaught of a desperate Marauders team that was chasing a win to keep their own hopes alive. You can not chase after a record sixth World Cup if you are not even in the knockouts and what a fall from grace that would have been, to have been in the Final last edition to completely missing out of knockouts of the very next. The side was determined to be in control of their own fate and when Hawk delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Lucas Winkel on the left in the twenty-second, the Turkish winger made no mistake in his placement and gave the Marauders an early lead. The team had leads before in the group stage and had yet to secure the three points, Auprussia still were in within a shout, even as the half ended with the Marauders clinging to their lone goal lead.

Auprussia was sitting back and allowing the Marauders to attack them, even as the second half got underway and the navy side were pressing for additional goals. It was on the press that the team would be caught out with too many players pushing up into the attack and a poor pass in the middle allowed Auprussia to attack on the break, Saloux-Chard finishing off the break with a chipped in goal to bring things level. Needing another goal, the Marauders started to show their desperation and were throwing everyone forward after giving up the goal, Haaland hitting the post twice in a three minute period around the hour mark. Eventually though the striker would finally get things on target and past the stretched out hands of the keeper, putting in a diving header on a cross from Winkel that gave the side the lead once again in the seventy-first. Ten minutes later he would double his lead with a hard shot from the spot and the game would be completely out of reach two minutes later when Julia Strömberg finished an effort from the top of the d, giving the side a four to one lead. It was a bit flattering in the end but the Marauders pulled through when they needed to, using Hawk's reprieve to focus on getting this result.

The bracket does not matter, who the team might play in the upcoming rounds if they are able to win the games to advance do not matter, all that matters the match that is in front of them. The ranking difference between the Marauders and the beer league players out of Anaia does not matter, nor the perceived talent difference between the two sides. Their opponents had upset the apple cart en route to their spot in getting here, having bested both Banija as well as the Holy Empire on their passage here. They might lack the technical skills of the teams higher ranked than them, but they do not lack the heart or the grit, the sort of thing you need in abundance to pull off the sort of upset that could be on the cards. For the Marauders they have struggled through the campaign but when they have had their backs against the wall they have managed to fight back with the effort that you would expect from one of the best teams in the sport. The key to the game is a rather simple one, allow the game to be played at the pace and style of their preference, do not let the struggles of the group stage to be a haunting specter, and then take the game to the beer league players who will be overmatched in sheer technical skill. It is easier said than done but it is there to be played for and they have afforded themselves the chance to pursue their dreams of a title, that starts now and with the effort the occasion demands of them.

by **Busoga Islands** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 1:34 pm

Longtime Busogan Foreign Secretary, Hassan Ibrahim, at the Belle Haven Agreement reception at St. John's Palace in Belle Haven, Baker Park

Secretary Ibrahim was walking around, with smiles on his face. He had arrived in Belle Haven the day before, and watched the game with the small, but burgeoning, Busogan community that was located in the Baker Park capitol. The matchup between the two Arrosia nations, on the biggest stage in sport- the World Cup- had been a big part of the feature of the 20 year anniversary of the Belle Haven Agreement. This agreement was part of the cornerstone of Busogan foreign policy, and they had, in large part, the Commonwealth to thank for that- normalization of relations with Banija allowed for a lot of economic growth, and the accession of the Busoga Islands into various international organizations that Banija had, both formally and informally, prevented the Islamic Republic from joining.

Ibrahim had been the only Foreign Secretary of the entire 24 year Presidency of Delbin Kasekende Sr.- a remarkable feat for somebody to stay in the same exact cabinet position, with the same President, for that long of a time period- no matter the system of government, but especially in a functioning democracy. So he himself was there when the Belle Haven Agreement was negotiated. And alongside his other longtime serving peers, in the Commonwealth government, he had put a lot of personal sweat and tears into the agreement. The agreement itself was largely negotiated undercover, mostly in secret- so quite a few late nights out here, a lot of frequent flyer miles, flying over here. The mediators deserved a lot of credit, but there was true dedication from himself, and his boss, on the topic.

Just then, as he was thinking about that, his boss- the President of the Islamic Republic- had walked into the room. This was, still, the President's best and greatest foreign policy accomplishment- shepherding the Busoga Islands through multiple regional security crises of course, but it was this agreement that had allowed for long-term growth trajectory for these islands. He walked up to his boss, and shook his hand first, before the President started shaking the hands of everybody else there.

Delbin Kasekende Sr., unfortunately, had been late to the proceedings. He had been at yesterday's game, in person- he was President of BISA, of course, but he was the public face behind the idea of bringing the Busoga Islands back to WCC competition- an idea that, somehow, was proving wildly successful. The scenes at the match the day before had been chaotic- Baker Park had scored early, and then had multiple opportunities to put the game away- but simply could not finish off the Islanders. And then, the Busoga Islanders, searching desperately for the last goal that would put them through to the knockout stages, found exactly the moment to do so- Jeshuah Odika, stepping up off the bench, hitting home a cross in the 86th minute to level the score at 1- and get the Busogans that crucial fourth point, that would prove to be enough to allow their tournament to continue.

The President, being the President, had been, of course, too busy celebrating in Rushmore to get on the flight to Belle Haven right after the match, like he had been supposed to. Missing the flight he had been supposed to get on, he did not fly until the next morning, meaning he was arriving at the dinner basically right as it was beginning.

Secretary Ibrahim took the moment to speak to his Banijan counterpart, Omugaba Immaculate. "Tough tourney for you guys, ey?" A little fun ribbed smack talk. Banija's World Cup had been the worst in their history- just 1 point from three matches, with a manager resigning in shame. Despite being ranked 8th in the multiverse. Eventually, Secretary Ibrahim sat down when the speeches started. And he laughed at the beginning of President Kasekende's speech.

"We are here today, because 20 years ago, in this very city, the Busoga Islands, alongside the Kingdom of Banija, signed a very historic agreement to normalize relations between our nations- and, in large part, we have the Commonwealth to thank for that. So thank you- and in particular, to Prime Minister Schoenlein and Head of State Wentworth, who were so instrumental, personally, in making this happen." Both the Banijan and Busogan delegates to this reception stood up, in thunderous applause for their hosts. "But of course, before I get into this speech, can I just say- who doesn't love a good football match, eh? HOw about that game yesterday?" Everybody laughed, as it was a reference to the fact that the Islanders and BPers were both still playing, while the Banijan NT was on the first flight back to the Kingdom. What a dream of a moment it was.

The Lakiska Daily

The Busoga Islands, with a stunningly late equalizer, are keeping the dream alive as they advance to the Round of 32

KOLLE, QUSMO- "Is that the Busoga Islands, of all teams, that are in the KO stages?"

"WHO got out of the group? Busoga did? Get me my reading glasses, quit lying."

"The Busogans have about as much of a chance of getting out of this group as Ren Qiang does of rising from the grave and ruling Yuezhou again" - Banijan TV commentator, before the tournament.

These are just a summation of quotes about the Busogan national team- one that has shocked the world by not only qualifying for the World Cup, but by, after three games, still playing- having earned their way into the Final 32. "Look, when I took this job, they told me that I was going to become a part of Mission Impossible." Said the manager, Emeline Millet, who last cycle coached in the freaking World Cup Final. "They said I was just here chasing a payday, they said I was here because I was bored and needed something to do before a better job came along. Well, look what can be done when you have institutional alignment. We have done what many had thought was an impossible task- getting the Busoga Islands to qualify for the World Cup. And not only have we done that- we have navigated a perilous group, with a huge upset win over a top 10 nation, who si a co-host of this thing, by the way, and reaching the knockout stages of the tournament. Beautiful."

She has been here just one Qualifying cycle- but what she has done here, after this small amount of time, might make her the most powerful manager in all of international football. Nobody, and I mean nobody, thought this was possible. Hell, qualifying for the World Cup at all was certainly overperforming. And not only did the Busogans qualify- but the Busogans were not just a punching bag when we arrived. We had a stunning 1-0 upset win over Yuezhou, on Matchday 1- not only the upset of the tournament, but a match that might go down as one of the greatest World Cup upset wins of all time. On MD2, it seemingly all came crashing back down to Earth, as Vdara wiped the floor with us, 3-0, and put us at the bottom of the table- in last place, as part of four-way, three point tie in the group with a match left to play. We had our moment, everyone thought, against Yuezhou. Vdara restored sanity. The Commonwealth of Baker Park would do the same to us, and we'd return home with beautiful memories from that match against Yuezhou.

But Emeline Millet had other plans.

After this match, she spoke about it. "The way everyone wrote us off, after the Vdara match, simply bothered me. Rubbed me the wrong way. Look, I know we are the lowest ranked nation in a World Cup in many, many years- I know the last 6 cycles haven't had a nation in the triple digits, and it's probably since well before that as well. But look- we had proven ourselves once. Some may say we had some fortune. To that? Sure. But across the entire Qualifying campaign, what has this team proven? That we have grit, that we have a sense of unity, that we are greater than the sum of our parts- and, of course, that we have talent. More talent than others will give us credit for. I'm not saying that we aren't underdogs against the Commonwealth- but i'm not about to book a flight home, either."

The 86th minute equalizer by Jeshuah Odika was the 'goal heard 'round the world'. Thunderous, thunderous reception- Busogan fans going absolutely crazy. Fans and players in tears. Three Busogans getting yellow cards for celebrating too excessively. Odika's shirt got tossed into the crowd, and he had to get a new one, further delaying the match. The shirt, naturally, was donated to the National Musuem by the fan who ended up with it in his hand. The scenes at home, absolutely incredible. We've all seen the students at the Islamic University going crazy? Bars across the country losing their minds. Or what about the video of that Elementary School where you had a horde of 6 year olds jump into a kiddie pool after that goal? Or the retirement home, where you had the old man, in a wheelchair, stand.

"This team- what it means to this country, what it means to this people- what a moment." Said starting striker, Ayben Uzun. "I am blessed to be part of such a journey- and I am blessed that the journey is still going." What an emotional ride, what an emotional high- the rollercoaster to get here has been insane. But, the players must lock in. Are they playing with house money? Most certainly. But they've got a match to get ready for- and Sarzonia will be salivating at the prospect of playing a nation like the Busoga Islands.

Can they win? Who knows. But this is a team that has fought against all the odds, all cycle long, and has been proving the impossible again, and again, and again- expect one hell of an effort against the Sarzonians.

by **StrayaRoos** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 1:38 pm

With a 2-1 win over Gnejs, the Emus comfortably qualified for the Round of 32 of World Cup 98, as the highest ranked 3rd place team, and are drawn to face Kamijro for a spot in the Round of 16.

Admittedly, getting past Gnejs was somewhat difficult for the Emus, as they were on the back foot for most of the game following a 6th minute goal by Gnejsian forward Thrasymachos Andersson, after a free kick was given away in a horrid position by the Emus, and as it was kicked up by the Gnejsian midfielder Cratylus Hansen , it was swiftly headed in by Andersson, and he made it 1-0 in an instant.

The Gnejsian side kept on with the momentum the whole first half, largely locking the Emus out of their box, and with the exception of poorly timed ‘shots’ that went more like passes that gave away possession, the Emus were useless in front of goal for the first 45.

That uselessness in front of goal continued for most of the second half. And then, as seemingly every Football Management game produced in the multiverse seems to do at the 80th minute, a completely different team started to show up to the one that played the first 80. Kaniehtiio Lindiwe, after barely getting a shot all game, hit the mark in the 83rd minute at the end of a bit of a team play from the defensive box, and it was 1-1. They were still in fourth, but it was a very simple equation to advance. They just needed one goal, and then by tomorrow night they would most likely be in the knockouts.

The game entered the first of four minutes of stoppage time still dead even. If this continued, both teams would be out. But, that’s not what happened. A late corner off a deflection gave the Emus a chance. And they capitalised on it. What a moment it was for all the Roosians up at god knows what hour attempting not to wake up their neighbours. It went like clockwork. As Ibtisam Zümra sent the ball up into the box, various Gnejsian defenders missed clearing it as it flew straight into the head of Zane Shalik, who sent it into the top corner, then wheeled away in celebration. Round of 32, here they come.

by **Pasarga** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 2:08 pm

What a difference an edition of the competition makes, as the team has swept through the group stage here in the eastern half of the region and overcome the fact that they were the third seeds in the group. It is a performance that makes good on all that which Thor has been preaching about the team and entire national team program since he was hired as the manager, showing the growth that the team has had under his tutelage. Last tournament was a bit of a blow to the confidence of the team that things were moving in the right direction but when you combine the Copa Rushmori that followed and the way that the team has performed in this edition, then it is clear to see the improvements. Thor has taken the program that was struggling to even be a consistent qualifier in the tournament to a team that has now swept its group and in what feels like quite the emphatic fashion in doing so, it is progress that can not be denied by anyone, even the most strict of contrarians who look for any small poor detail to blow out of proportion. With one more cycle left on his contract, you have to wonder if the PFA will be drawing up an extension for their prodigal son and if he will even want to extend his time with the team.

However before all that can be considered, the team is into the knockout rounds of this competition and it comes after an impressive drubbing of Myrtle Beach on the second matchday that had secured their qualification for the knockout rounds before staring down at the number two team in the world, Tumbra. However the group's powerhouse team had faltered greatly in their group stage, winning neither of their first two games and needing a victory against the Wanderers to have any real shot of joining the Rushmori side in the second phase of the tournament. Failure to get three points for the Esportiva giants would result in them not even advancing out of the group, which would have come as a huge surprise before the games had began. With number one in the world Valanora also struggling and needing a victory on the last matchday to ensure their own survival, there was all the chance that the tournament could be up for grabs if the top two teams in the rankings were unable to pull through with the required results on the last matchday and see themselves pull into the knockouts of the expanded field, something that might not have been possible two editions ago.

However despite a bit of rotation, the Wanderers were in the ascendancy of what was a bit of a cagey match with Tumbra, edging out their opponents if only just to began the match. With the knockouts secure, Thor wanted to give his team's best players the day off to try and rest up for whatever they were about to face in the knockout rounds, as it all was up in the air thanks to the Qusma seeding being used for the tournament's knockout phase. Despite that, the team was playing as well as they might have done even if the full strength team had been put to the field, perhaps even playing better because it was not as the reserve players were looking to make their mark with the opportunity that was presented to them. At the half time break though, neither team had looked very dangerous going forward and it seemed like Tumbra was lacking the urgency you might have expected from a top team fighting for their knockout lives. It was almost as if they had already made peace with that fact that they were not going to go through despite the opportunity to escape the group still there to be played for.

In the second half CAP's own Járngrímur would give the Wanderers the lead in the fifty-sixth minute on a bit of a goal mouth scramble after a long range effort from Mátyás Vass had not been held, the striker being the first to the ball and poking it into the back of the net. It was far from the prettiest of goal but in the end they all count and it had put the team ahead quite unexpectedly. The goal seemed to spark a bit of reaction from the Tumbra side as they tried to press a bit more and tried to get the Wanderers midfield to commit more turnovers and allow them to hit out on the break, but the Pasargan backline was playing exceptionally well and breaking up any opportunities before they had a chance to become dangerous. The game would eventually fizzle out and turn it a bit of a nothing affair as the Wanderers coasted towards their unexpected victory and three wins from three in the group stage, Tumbra falling massively short of all the expectations made for them and showing that this game can definitely be your great friend as well as your greatest enemy in the way it can give and take.

Will the Wanderers win the World Cup now that they have made the knockout stages and did so in probably the most impressive fashion that they could have hoped for after seeing their draw? The simple answer is no, they are not likely to go on and win the next five games and win the entire tournament, although it is not impossible for them to do so. As long as the team remains in the competition, there is always the chance that they could go on and win the tournament, they did just beat the world's number two team to win the group stage after all. Yet there was something off about that match with Tumbra and you usually see the best teams start to play as the best teams the deeper into the competition that we get. Yet it does not matter how deep the run that the Wanderers make is, although both the teams and fans will definitely be wanting and pushing to get as far as they can, but the truth is that the team has already achieved much of their goals in the tournament and anything else is merely adding greater celebration to the legacy of this generation. Enjoy the success when it comes, enjoy this feeling of ascent, for you never known when it might slip away.

by **Squornshelan Remnant States** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 2:22 pm

With the completion of the group stage and a perfect 3-0-0 record for the Black-and-Reds, it has now officially been an entire World Cup cycle since the SRS last lost a competitive match. While a handful of draws and friendly losses have kept the team from claiming anything close to true perfection over that time span, it is nonetheless impressive that since losing to Ko-oren on the final matchday of World Cup 97's group stage, the Black-and-Reds have not been beaten in a match that, to put it bluntly, mattered. Before that slip-up against Ko-oren, you have to backtrack all the way past World Cup 97 qualifying to the quarterfinals of the second Arrosian Regional Championship, and during cycle 96, despite failing to qualify for the World Cup, the Black-and-Reds were actually on better form than a few teams that made the dance, losing only twice in qualifying, and once more as they failed to do much at the ensuing Cup of Harmony, and their triumph in the inaugural ARC included just one loss on the opening matchday. In competitive matches, when the chips are down, the Black-and-Reds have lost just six times in nearly three cycles, claiming three international trophies along the way.

And now, of course, the unforgiving marathon of the knockout bracket, all the longer now in the World Cup's expanded format. Every match matters, every goal matters, every minute matters, no second chances, no return leg, just win or go home. As for the Black-and-Reds, they return to the site of their shootout win over The Fourteen Stars to face much tougher opposition. A fair bit of laughter was had at the insistence of some in the Obaman media that their national team's brief stay at the top of the overall qualifying standings ought to afford them special consideration as the multiverse's best team. As far as the path to the knockouts, they could be considered by some metrics to be the bracket's worst team, at least on form, winning just one match to squeak through their group while managing to score only two goals. Still, the right team talk, the right change of attitude can make all the difference, and if an unheralded but red-hot team like the Black-and-Reds could come charging from the thirties to claim the title a cycle ago, then a strong team that's survived a dreadful run of form to make it to this point can certainly make noise as well. Madeiros's Black-and-Reds certainly haven't built their now years-long hot streak by overlooking opponents though.

SRS First Team against West Barack and East Obama

Bláha - Drenel, Van, Tutku - Shakhnovich, Sevet-Ibilx, Tatsinan, Starovoitov - Ksudach - McGill - Aaltonen

by **The Kytler Peninsulae** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 3:43 pm

This audio RP covers some of the pre-match coverage of the opening hexadecifinal on NBO Radio 4. Trevor Edmonds-Bain is the lead presenter inside the Clituleng Giisost Stadium, with punditry from Zeiven City manager Joe Brook and FC Alaer goalkeeper/longtime Kytlerian NT benchwarmer Jonathan Murphy-Coates.

by **Tanirinthia** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 3:58 pm

OF FATES AND FORTUNES
Chapter Thirty - A Sea of Chaos

Busoga Islands right? It's got to be there!

I mean just look at their meteoric rise, they were ranked 281^st in the multiverse at the beginning of qualifying and now they are through to the hexadecifinals even taking down Yuezhou, not only the eight ranked team in the multiverse but they are playing on home soil! I can't think of any other team outperforming where their would predict they would be, although there are plenty feeling the opposite level of luck; Tumbra, Banija to name but a few.

She looked at Jasper to see his brow still was still furrowed

You don't seem convinced darling, what are you seeing that I'm missing?

You are right that Busoga Islands seems so obvious, and it's the very obviousness itself that gives me pause. You might as well be holding up a giant arrow neon sign saying "Entity who can manipulate luck found here". And yes I know you may think that I'm overthinking things, as I will admit I am prone to do from time to time, however there is something else that is added to my pause. We were winning our game against Sarzonia only to "unluckily" concede a late goal, meaning that instead of finishing top of the group we ended up in second place. Seemingly innocuous right, but by ending in second place we remain in Tikariot, had we topped the group our hexadecifinal match would have been in Qusmo. Luck enabled us to be based here, thanks to Raven Medina's domestic transfer here and it seems luck has conspired again to keep us here, and the road ahead should we keep progressing would be nothing but Tikariot.

Jasper let out a heavy sigh and went over to the window.

Why does it want us here? What are we missing, should we head to Qusmo? Is there something or someone there that it's trying to get us to not see or meet? I feel like we are in a stormy choppy sea of chaos and I'm just losing all my bearings.

Clara walked up to him and put her arms around him, putting her hand over his chest.

Breathe darling. Remember what you told me, don't spin out whatever we do with do with purpose, and you aren't on this ship on your own. First Mate Bonner reporting for duty!

Clara sprung to a mock salute, which managed to drew a weak smile and unfurrow some of Jasper's brow.

Let's look at this if has pulled the strings to keep us away from Qusmo, then we aren't going to be able to go there are we? Too many things and people between that it could easily stop us, plane cancelled, overbooked, computer troubles at the airport. I would think smaller effort than keeping us in Tikariot by influencing all of those matches, so we carry on ahead with where we are. We keep building research, keep building our knowledge, so that how ever long it takes we are patient and in the end that'll be what gives us it's destruction.

With that the rest of Jasper's brow became furrow free, and he breathed easier looking into her eyes. However both their eyes were suddenly drawn to the hotel door as they heard to sound of something being shoved under the door. Rushing over they flung open the door, but to both of their surprise they we met with an empty corridor. Turning their attention to what was placed under the door, Clara picked up the note.

1093 Ericksun Street
8pm

Chapter One | Chapter Two | ~~Chapter Three~~ | Chapter Four | Chapter Five | Chapter Six | Chapter Seven | Chapter Eight | Chapter Nine | Chapter Ten | Chapter Eleven | Chapter Twelve | Chapter Thirteen | Chapter Fourteen | Chapter Fifteen | Chapter Sixteen | Chapter Seventeen | Chapter Eighteen | Chapter Nineteen | Chapter Twenty | Chapter Twenty-One | Chapter Twenty-Two | Chapter Twenty-Three | Chapter Twenty-Four | Chapter Twenty-Five | Chapter Twenty-Six | Chapter Twenty-Seven | Chapter Twenty-Eight | Chapter Twenty-Nine

by **Mytanija** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 4:37 pm

Lacina Issoumou had taken a long time to announce himself to the world. A stop-start career, coming through the ranks at 1923 Esca and never quite being able to pin down a starting position. It had even perhaps been a bit of a surprise when Kelssekian giants Kirkenes came in for him, but they clearly saw something that many in Mytanija had been unable to see. This powerful but not particularly clinical young Mytanar-Ketioulais striker almost needed to go somewhere else to be truly appreciated, to have his rough edges rounded out. Kirkenes allowed him a bit of distance to develop, a bit of room to grow and fulfil his potential.

In Mytanija, Lacina had been treated as a bit of an outsider. For a country that had so many internal tensions, there was an irony in the fact that Zrnskian people could still reserve some energy to make an Escan-born kid feel like a foreigner. Lacina’s parents were from Ketiou, immigrants to Mytanija, black. That marked him as different and Lacina was treated exactly like that, despite being from Esca, being proud of being from Esca and a product of 1923 Esca’s youth academy. When things didn’t quite click for him, it wasn’t put down to the fact that he was a young player who it just wasn’t quite working for, it was put down to the fact that ‘he doesn’t quite understand what it means to play for 1923 Esca’ and that sort of nonsense.

Eventually Lacina grew tired of it. Kirkenes was refreshing.

In Kelssek he grew into his powerful frame. He learned how to use his body: how to put himself between the ball and the defender; how to manoeuvre himself and the defender into the best position to create a shooting opportunity; how to interact with his midfielders to both bring them into play and to help them support him in the best way possible. He became an elite striker. He could bully defenders, he was smart, his shooting even improved. People back home started to take notice, including national team coaches.

For a while, Lacina was unsure if he wanted to represent Mytanija. He was proud of where he had grown-up, a melting pot neighbourhood of Esca, but when he was growing up it felt like many Escans were anything but proud of him or his family. When he was having some struggles coming through the ranks at 1923 Esca it didn’t feel as if he was being accepted as one of their own – despite being born in the same hospital that many white Escans had been born in. He didn’t really understand why skin colour was a big deal for some people, but it seemed to be, and Lacina remembered that. Did he really want to play for a country that made him feel that way?

In the end he decided he did want to represent that country. He was Mytanar and he was Ketioulais. He was a proud Escan. He was all of those things and many more things besides, and he wouldn’t allow anybody to take those parts of his identity away from him. He would stick the proverbial two fingers up at those individuals, and he would do so by playing for the country of his birth. Lacina also wanted to play at the highest possible level, and whilst he was proud of his Ketioulais heritage, he would not be able to play at the World Cup with Ketiou given their low standing in international football. There was both an identity reason and a functional reason to his eventual decision.

That was good news, firstly for Ivica Svok; and secondly, to a much greater extent, for Ermin Držić. Svok gave Issoumou his first call-up and his first caps. Držić found the best way to use him for the national team, elevating him to a starting position and, eventually, one of the very first names on the team sheet. Lacina’s rise was complete. He was a world class striker for a national team which was regularly qualifying for World Cups, a national team which had perhaps underperformed over the decades – when it came to results and trophies – given the quality of the players that had pulled on the famous green-and-white hooped shirt.

Lacina was one of many that wanted to change that and during World Cup 98 qualification something felt a little different. Denis Ovsyannikov was the team’s best player, one of the greatest footballers playing the game. Bigger Mbala-Ekakia, a fellow Mytanar-Ketioulais footballer, was the team’s captain and nearly in his fifth decade with bags of experience to lead a fantastic defensive system. Alekso Vasilevski, a fantastic young goalkeeper and one who could both stop shots and start attacks given his excellent ability with the ball at his feet. And then Lacina led the line, the big target man who boasted supreme physicality but was technically able too.

People often spoke about good teams needing to have a ‘good spine’. They meant having good players right down the middle of the pitch, from the goalkeeper to the striker. Mytanija had Alekso Vasilevski in net, Bigger Mbala-Ekakia in central defence, Denis Ovsyannikov in midfield and Lacina Issoumou up front. They certainly had a good spine.

During qualification, the only team that could beat Mytanija was Farfadillis. Those games were quite close, too. It gave the team confidence. They could mix it with the very best. That attitude was carried forward to the World Cup proper, with great results against both the group’s top seed and second seed in the 2-1 win over Banija; and 2-2 draw with The Holy Empire respectively. That left what was on paper the most winnable game on matchday three, the game versus Hot-Damn. They had gone one better than Mytanija, actually beating both The Holy Empire and Banija. The media made a lot of noise about that, but the players were confident that they could get a result despite Hot-Damn’s hot start.

On the field, Mytanija got off to a good start, Denis Ovsyannikov hitting the post and Bigger Mbala-Ekakia forcing a good save out of the Hot-Damn goalkeeper from a whipped-in cross from a corner kick. It took a while longer to break the deadlock, but it was Lacina Issoumou who did it, adding an exclamation point to his announcement to the world. Who other than Ovsyannikov was the creator, bursting into the Hot-Damn half of the pitch, almost stiff-arming one Hot-Damn defender away from him before threading a pass in between the centre-backs for Lacina Issoumou to run onto.

As Lacina ran in on goal, time almost slowed down for him. He felt comfortable in these situations, situations between him and the opposition goalkeeper. It was only him and the man with the gloves. Sometimes Lacina would look to dink the goalkeeper. Sometimes he’d try to put it through the goalkeeper’s legs. This time he decided to do something a little unorthodox, if only because if you got it wrong it could look quite embarrassing – you could miss the goal entirely despite it being quite a simple chance. Lacina wanted to make a point.

He hit the ball, perhaps not quite as hard as he could, but really, really hard. The goalkeeper didn’t move. The ball hit the net, nearly taking the net off the goalframe, nearly bursting a hole in the net. 1-0. It was all Mytanija needed, controlling the remainder of the game, nearly adding a second on a couple of occasions. Lacina was mobbed by his teammates at the conclusion of the game. The Mytanars fans in the stadium sang his name. He cheered them, too. It may have taken Lacina Issoumou a long time to announce himself to the world, but when he did, he did it loud and proud.

by **Valentine Z** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 5:33 pm

Part 4 – Now or Never!

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: My analysis says that our match against Edsmontik is going to be rather interesting! This will be our very first match against them as far as I know; I don’t believe that we have played against them in the past, but I will have to extract it from my storage systems if you would like to know more. Or if you can recall that too, it will be great! Ranking 43rd on the, well, international (and interdimensional) rankings, The Edsmon Eagles are going to play rather centrically – balancing both offense and defensive plays, with just a small bit of edge towards offenses. Like, only a little bit! So, that will mean that we the Valentian Kittens will once again have to get the goals as much as we can. We cannot simply do defensives, I believe that this also applies to us also. Gwen’s Angels tried it a little bit with the defensives and yeah, it unfortunately did not go so well for them, cutting it close whereby they nearly lost a match. This match also means that we are not going to make it into this season’s Cup of Harmony should we get knocked out. Still, the fact that we made it here is, as always, brilliant! We can always do more, I know, but please don’t be too overly stressed by such the goal! Please do look after one another and yourselves on the field and like I said, there’s always the next one! I do wonder what the organizers will be doing for the 100th World Cup. Surely something special or significant, ha ha!

by **Siovanija and Teusland** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 5:36 pm

Stelburger Zeitung

Hackl ahead of Kelssek clash: ”We have to give everything”

Following the 3-3 draw between Siovanija & Teusland and Chromatika on matchday 3 of World Cup action, the Goldhorns had secured the win in Group G and passage through to the knockouts.

It wasn’t quite the smoothest sailing - especially after the brilliant performance on the opening day against Valanora. The Goldhorns achieved one of the best results in the history of the national team on the opening day against their neighbours, the #1 ranked side in the world - but then drew 3-3 in back-to-back matches with Auprussia and Chromatika, letting two-goal leads slip both times. This time, it was Baillaire Fillar with a brilliantly-taken free kick in the 84th minute that brought the Anomalies back to grab an important point.

Despite the disappointment of the two draws, especially after the opening day win, the Goldhorns have still managed to win Group G. That was confirmed when the whistle blew at Carva Dock Stadium, with Valanora’s big win over Auprussia giving them second spot on four points. Chromatika’s point was a big one for the country, as they have also advanced from the group in the third position.

With the results of the final matchday set, there was time just for the group draw! As the lowest-ranking group winner, the Goldhorns ended up being seeded to face a familiar opponent: Kelssek. Yes, the world’s #3 team who the Goldhorns faced in Qualifying twice is the foe once again in World Cup 98 - this time in the hexadecifinal. The Goldhorns will leave The Kytler Peninsulae, too, instead heading to Qusmo’s Mastad Atlova in Atlem.

On the flight over to Qusmo, the Stelburger Zeitung was able to get some face-to-face time with none other than Einar Hackl - the Goldhorns’ #9 who has scored four times in this World Cup so far.

Stelburger Zeitung: Einar, thanks for making some time for us! I know it’s a busy schedule, and we usually don’t do interviews on a plane like this, but…

Einar Hackl: Half of the boys are asleep anyways! I have time, I can’t sleep on flights, haha.

SZ: It’s been a great tournament for you so far again, Einar - 4 goals through 3 games. You have 10 goals for the Goldhorns all-time in this competition - the next closest on the list are Michael Ribbeck and Thorsten Kramer with 3 each. What is it that allows you to perform so well on the highest stage?

EH: The team around me. I’m a poacher - my best spot isn’t creating my own opportunities, it’s finishing off great chances. I need a guy like Xorge (Le Meji) or Aleks (Kosch-Kovarik) to making something happen, or someone like Jesper (Porsche) to put the ball in the right spot. But when it’s in the right spot? Yeah, I have total confidence that I’m going to do my job properly, and that helps well.

SZ: You mention Xorge Le Meji. The connection with him has certainly been on fire at this tournament - he’s assisted all 4 of your goals, and had an important one of his own against Valanora. What has led to your chemistry together?

EH: Easy, we have the same mindset: attack, attack, attack. He’s such a smart footballer, and he makes it really hard for a defender. He can create something from anything. So I know when he’s on the ball, to be ready to get myself into the right position. Plus he’s a good guy off the field, and so it’s easy to get along.

SZ: Overall, the attacking firepower of the Goldhorns has been hard to stop for their opponents - 44 goals in Qualifying, 9 goals through 3 games at the Finals. Do you think that’s a result of the offensive talent on the field, or is that the style of a Dominik Weismann team?

EH: A bit of both. I mean, look at the wingers we have - it’s an incredible list, and even the other forwards, I mean, you have one guy who plays in Chromatika and one guy who plays for FC Teussen Stelburg. We’re not lacking in that department. But yeah, Dominik is always encouraging us to take risks, get forward and I definitely feel a freedom to play my game. “The point of the whole thing is to put the ball in the net, after all,” I’ve heard him say that a few times.

SZ: The group stage as a whole was a mixed bag for the Goldhorns. The big win over Valanora, but then two blown-away leads in the last two games. In the end, you win the group. What do you make of the performance in the group stage?

EH: Mixed bag sounds about right. At times we were awesome, at times it wasn’t good enough. It’s pretty fortunate to get 5 points at the World Cup and end up winning your group, so while we’re happy about it, we also know that we need to improve. I think everybody inside the room knows where, and I’m confident in all the guys to get it done.

SZ: Many have singled out the defending. You’ve scored 9, but also given up 9 - that’s not going to be good enough going into the knockouts. Would you agree with that assessment?

EH: It’s all over the field. Sure, perhaps there are some goals against that you want back. But haven’t I missed a few chances too, that would’ve made those draws into wins? You can’t blame anybody, you just have to keep fighting together and trust each other to fix things. That’s what winners do.

SZ: The reward for the group victory - a rematch with Kelssek. You’ve played them twice in the campaign so far - 3-3 draw in Borograd, 4-1 loss in Kirkenes. How are you feeling going into this one?

EH: Actually, I’m pretty excited. We all know that 4-1 was not who this team really is. All the guys on this team, we want to go out there and show why. It’s a different situation now, we’re a different team, and I think we all just want to get out there and atone for that one.

SZ: It won’t be an easy one - Kelssek remain the #3 ranked team in the world. You’re the underdogs going into this one. How do you prepare for such a game?

EH: You have to beat the best to be the best. We defeated the world #1, and next up is the #3. If we can beat them, it’s great, and we’ll go on. If we can’t beat them, well, it is what it is - obviously we wouldn’t be capable of going far in this tournament if that’s the case. We have to give everything - we have to give everyone’s best. If we do that, then there’s no pressure and we’ll get the result we’re looking for.

SZ: Obviously, given the fact we’re 40,000ft above the ground at the moment, there’s a change in scenery for this one - from The Kytler Peninsulae to Qusmo. Would you have preferred to stay in the familiar setting, or is a change in pace welcome?

EH: Hey, I’ll play anywhere they ask. It’s another country on my list that I’ve visited, so I’m pretty happy about that. But at the end of the day, it’s the same in every country and every stadium: the grass is green and the ball is round.

SZ: Knockout stages in two straight World Cup tournaments, 27 goals for your country before your 22nd birthday, a league title with TSV Marzig. What is the limit for Einar Hackl?

EH: You said 40,000ft or so? Probably that!

SZ: Aha, but seriously, Einar. Have you set goals for your career to achieve?

EH: I’m living my dream. I could never have imagined any of this. I’ve achieved a lot, and hopefully have a lot of good years ahead of me. I know you’ll want to ask me about transfer rumours, next season, all that. But today, the only thing on my mind is World Cup 98.

SZ: Thanks Einar. Good luck against Kelssek!

EH: Thank you!

Siovanija & Teusland 3-3 Chromatika
Carva Dock Arena, Kytler Bay City

XI: Holz; Schwefel, Steinhausl, Rodl, Reichenbach (Mesko 70’); Porsche, Prekmurje (Apel 87’), Le Meji; Korlikov, A. Kosch-Kovarik (Zschokke 70’), Hackl
Goals: Einar Hackl 20’, 49’, Jesper Porsche 30’
Man of the Match: Einar Hackl

Expected XI vs Kelssek: Kranz; Schwefel, Steinhausl, Rodl, Reichenbach; Porsche, Prekmurje, Le Meji; Korlikov, A. Kosch-Kovarik, Hackl

by **Farfadillis** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 6:02 pm

"The sun just blinked," Pídí observed.

"What do you mean?" Sürréo asked, somewhat bemused.

"I mean the Sun just blinked. Poof. A small second of no sun. Low-key weird."

"I did not see it blink," Sürréo complained.

"Well, you should stare into the sun more often, I guess?" Not really my problem.

"I... I really shouldn't. Neither should you."

"It was a very brief, harmless blink. Nothing much changed, don't worry, practice will continue as normal, surely. Nobody cares about the sun," he complained in a low tone.

As they arrived, they started stretching and waiting for Yuan Zilai, the manager. "Get a load of this guy," Sürréo piped up as soon as there were enough teammates, "he says the sun blinked."

"HOLY FUCK!" Türrângel hollered. "THE SUN BLINKED? OH SHIT OH SHIT OH SHIT!"

"It most certainly did not," Sürréo responded. "Did any of you see it blink?"

Everyone besides Pídí shook their heads.

"Did any of you observe it at all times to make sure it didn't blink at any moment?" Pídí asked.

Everyone shook their heads.

"That's a good point," Fulzhohu We Xi muttered. Still, he was not convinced.

"Has it blinked more than once?" Danzas asked curiously.

"I don't think so but," Pídí paused dramatically, "maybe? Maybe not? Who knows!"

"You're just messing with us now," Sürréo scoffed.

"I mean, none of you were watching. It could be blinking all the time! I try to keep an eye on it but it's hard." Pídí shrugged, playing keepie uppie with the ball in front of him. "You ever think about that? Maybe the sun blinks every day and we just don't notice."

"Okay, philosopher, yeah, yeah, if a tree burns in the forest and it burns the forest and nobody is there to see it, has the tree really burned?" Sürréo rolled his eyes. "Very creative. Stop, please, our center-back's getting fidgety." Türrângel was, inded, getting very nervous.

"What Valën says makes some logical sense," Fulzhohu We Xi muttered again. Sürréo rolled his eyes.

Before he could reply, Yuan Zilai finally arrived, already looking vaguely annoyed with everyone present. He was donning kraken gloves, for whatever reason. "Sick fit, boss," Pídí noted. "I fucking hate these gloves," Yuan responded.

"Alright, enough bonding," he cibrubyed. "Start warming up, we're not beating Yues if we're the type of team that loses to Crpostran."

Training began as usual. With the one and only exception of, who else, Türrângel.

The hulking center-back seemed hellbent on staring at the sun whenever he could, which was considerably diminishing his performance in drills, and later on especially in the actual practice matches.

"Hey," Yuan Zilai called out. "Stop staring at the fucking sun, please? It's bad for you."

"It's not!" Pídí shouted back.

Türrângel hesitated, ball at his feet, then glanced up at the sky real quick in total and complete disobedience of his coach.

"Dammit Tôsgo!" Yuan hollered.

"IT BLINKED!" Tôsgo shouted before curling up in the floor, sobbing.

Pídí looked at Sürréo. "Told you!" He sounded pretty spiteful. Sürréo just stared on confused, not believing a single instant of what was unraveling before his eyes.

Yuan froze. "Did he just say the sun blinked?"

"Yes," Sürréo responded, annoyed.

"Fuck me, I must've said the words wrong. Maybe it's the gloves? Practice is canceled, everyone. Do not walk under any sets of stairs under any circumstances. Seriously. You won't die but you'll tear your left ACL, specifically," he warned, ominously. "Anyway, I've got a minor spirit to exorcise." He shook his head. "I hate being sloppy," he lamented.

Yuan's phone beeped. Another text from Tuskoles. "Get rid of the spirit ASAP, please, it's interfering with our privatization of the Yue water supply, thank you."

by **Kamijiro** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 6:16 pm

End of the Door Wars?

After causing a restless night for the Vdarans, Sōji went back to Fort Viljan and slept it off. He was out of the starting lineup for the next match, anyway. Kyōji Kirishima would be starting to give him some rest and play a much more defensive formation than the Lightning usually run. Hell, he'd even asked for a day of leave for the match specifically so he could sleep in after pulling a prank of the highest order. For what it's worth, the team did okay without him. A 0-0 draw against the #3 side in the footballing realm is a great result and it clinched the top spot in the group for the Kamijiroans. Meanwhile, Sōji could do nothing except chuckle as a notably tired Vdaran team failed to score against Yuezhou.

Akinari Akaminai picked up his mother from the airport following the match against Kelssek. With a long sigh, he gave her a hug and they went on a walk around the city.
"So, Aki, why did you arrange for the team to have me come here?"
"I... I just wanted you to be here, ma. See me play. We're going to be up against StrayaRoos next and I wanted you to be here to watch." Akinari said, looking off into the distance as if expecting somebody else to show up, but nobody came.
"Aki... you know I can tell you're not telling the full truth. This is about your brother, isn't it?"
"Mom, you know I shouldn-"
"I know better than to ask the details. Is it serious?"
"Very."
"I see. Soon or already?"
"Soon, I think."
"Do you think there's any chance we could talk him down?"
"No. He's too far into that life now. Even with the baseball and his girlfriend, he's addicted to that feeling of power. We have to understand that the Atsuji we knew isn't the same Atsuji that lives today."
"You say that, but if he were really that far gone, would he have asked you to get me out of the city?"
"... I don't know, mom." Akinari stared off into the sunset.

It felt like just yesterday that he and Atsuji were just kids playing video games together in their parents' stuffy little apartment. Their dad wasn't exactly a bad guy, but he wasn't exactly a good dad, either. He was never really sure how to raise two boys, let alone two boys born back-to-back, 10 months apart. And it was clear that he didn't know how to handle it when his first-born son got involved with a street gang. When Atsuji came back one night with a rose tattoo on his arm, their dad nearly had a stroke. Six years later and he's in the hospital with liver failure from all the drinking he's done while trying to cope with the stress.

Akinari and his mother watched as the sunset turned a vivid red followed by a deep purple. When the sun was finally gone, Akinari finally got the courage to ask.

"How's the old man?"

The lack of response from his mother told him all he needed to know.

Back home, terror was reigning the streets of Miraisaki. Atsuji had started the purge of cops from Narakugai and opened up the smuggling route from Chamonix directly into the city. Violently opened them. The cops tried their best to stop them, but stopping a bunch of guys with nothing to lose and everything to gain who also happen to own submachine guns isn't going to be an easy task. With the army heavily depleted from the civil war, the police also couldn't turn to them for backup. It was over within two hours. Dozens of people dead, hundreds wounded and alcohol freely flowing back into the city. Atsuji made over 5,000,000 Jiroes in one night, just from this alone. And he was going to keep getting richer and richer...

by **Edsmontik** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 6:27 pm

streggvalkligges.eds
YOUR Edsmon Sports Hub

7/24/2030

EVENTS

FDVL
FDVL CHAMPION: REICHAN DE-WALVARJ

INTERNATIONAL
NSWC98 MD3

Group I
Edsmontik 3-2 West Vdara @ Oceanview Stadium, Port Rhovanyon, Tikariot (63,000)
S. Fotserr (2', 31'), K. Wejikaj (76') | V. Alexiadis (60', 83')

CHANNELS

THE VAULT HAS BEEN OPENED

Despite being the lowest ranked of the group, Edsmontik were originally not looking forward to West Vdara.
But over time, as the Westerners lost and drew, the Eagles weren't as nervous anymore.
The team that proved to be a threat just last cycle (in the Baptism of Fire) maybe wouldn't be too tough to beat.
However, the tension was still high.
It was the last game of the group stage, and a win or loss could ultimately decide who went through.
As the game progressed, the game seemed to fall into Edsmon favor.
But the Vdarans scored to make it 2-1, which the Edsmons luckily countered.
Then they scored again, to make it 3-2.
Luckily for the Edsmons, there was an offside goal for West Vdara, and the score remained 3-2.
Here with us tonight is Darnem Suiozsen, to point out some of the best moments in the game (not including goals).

Darnem: This game was filled with lots of historic references, with moments such as the iconic Edsmon goals of 03' and 04', and throwback celebrations to honor the Edsmon legends of the past.

2' Two Throwbacks to Start the Game
Seu Fotserr was a long-time fan of Talren Jorvik, arguably one of the best players of the 2002-2010 era.
Hoping to recreate Jorvik's 2005 flick volley, he called on Reiovus and Svaardaen to supply him the ball.
Luckily for him, he got his chances early.
Within the first minutes of the game, Svaardaen intercepted a misplaced pass and passed it to Fotserr.
Fotserr recreated the "accidental" flick that sent the ball up, and fired a powerful volley with his laces into the same corner Jorvik scored in.
Now that, was a recreation.
But it wasn't done yet, as Foterr celebrated with Jorvik's iconic salute-flip.
Edsmon fustbaal fans were crazy about this, as it's probably been the first time an Edsmon has attempted to recreate this goal.
After all, it was known as the "hardest goal to recreate" because of the flick before the shot was hard to master.

20' A Record Distance for Edsmontik
In the 20th minute, Maktholm Ghreksbvy attempted a shot from pretty far out, and almost landed it.
After a pass back from Fotserr, Ghreksbvy found himself cornered and decided that a good choice would be to fire it.
A few dribbles forward, and smash!
A left footed powershot that rammed the cross bar and flew right up into the stands.
Ghreksbvy was close to breaking an Edsmon record, which he would have broken if he scored, but he still broke the Edsmon record for the farthest attempted shot by just 2.5 centimeters.
A close one there for Maktholm.

54' Once in a Lifetime Volley
Despite being freshly back from his injury, Marvic Svaardaen did all he could to contribute.
Most notable of his moments though, was controlling a ball that was sent to him pretty quickly.
This started when Reiovus lost the ball up front, and the West Vdaran defense attempted to clear it.
Instead of aiming up and far, the Vdaran launched it straight and low, right at Svaardaen.
Marvic didn't seem to panic though, and with almost perfect timing, he volleyed the ball right back towards the net.
However, the ball was deflected by another West Vdaran defender, ending the chance of a historic goal right there.
It did force Svaardaen to come off though, as the impact with his foot was a little too painful to stand.

90+1' Preventing the West Vdaran Equalizer
West Vdara had slowly made their comeback.
The game was 3-2, and with little time left, the Edsmons had to be extremely cautious.
As the seconds ticked off, it was heart thumping move after heart thumping move.
Eventually, the West Vdarans were on the attack again, clearly not giving up.
They pushed forward with their strong players, nearing the box as they broke through the Edsmon midfield.
And as they slipped past the defense, the fans watched silently, ready to cheer or sigh depending on what happened.
Alexiadis received the ball, and fired his last shot of the game...
*TWEET!*
"Offside!"
A last minute command sent the Edsmon defense forward right before the passing, making way for an offside play.
And that was the ending.
3-2, Edsmontik to the knockouts.

EDSMON ROSTER

CHANGES FOR HEXADECIFINALS

by **Saint Eleanor** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 6:35 pm

OOC: Everyone on the list other than Card (busy), Kry (busy) and Ochre (need to hash out Lara's death) has agreed for Lara to visit their nation in principle. United Hawkland was the only one to bite immediately (other than SJJeBoS) as well as the most convenient nation for me to write about, so all the glory goes to him today. I've consulted extensively with UHL on the principles of the RP, and ~~I strongly doubt he will object to my finished RP - coming soon!~~ approved my finished RP at 2323 UTC on Saturday.

Group of Six meeting (LVIII) --- SAINT ELEANOR 4-2 Valentine Z
Participants: Gentle Breeze, Reniira Clevinger, Stephen Mitcham ~ Bridget Coombe [C], Cathy Winchester [VC], Olympia Woodward [ballot]
Location: the Black Rock Beer House; Port Tacassam, TKT

I'm Stephen Mitcham, and I was assigned notation duties after some very limited discussion with Bridget, who will be offered the opportunity to write them. Everybody had a pint of whatever they fancied (although Bridget had two glasses of water, not at the same time).

The Valentine Z match was a good, effective performance; perhaps our best match at any World Cup, short of our two wins at WC96. Holly van der Hoogte did very well to get the opening goal, but Olympia found a response not once, but twice in short order, first getting her way past both of the Valentian defenders for a neat solo goal, then poking in a typically low cross from Ohan. Going 2-1 up after 20 minutes was excellent, but we needed to do more to confirm our advancement. Graham Lawson (after ~50 minutes with a curler) and Kichiro Matsuda (after ~75 with a floaty one off a corner that evaded Marshall) made sure of it. Grisha Konstantinovich's late goal was little more than a consolation for the Kittens as we dealt them their elimination.
Away from the goals, Esther very nearly got herself sent off on a couple of occasions; I've privately advised her not to do that against HUElavia. Kichiro managed to avoid losing his head - he would have missed out on the last 32 with a booking, as well - but ran it close a couple of times. Felaraneta and Ohan were both amazing playmakers and, in general, the team was consistently above-average other than what I've said. No notes on anyone's end, not even Olympia's.

HUElavia are a known threat, despite their fortituous escape from the group stage. They are a particularly intense squad, especially where the midfield is concerned - they will look to push all of our players ragged. It is not a surprise at all that they are the reigning Cup of Harmony champions. We therefore need to manage them on a player-by-player basis.

Nwoye Uchee is your typical pace-and-power striker. He can be readily dealt with by Arielle, Esther and Lydia (although mademoiselle Vickers may be swapped out for Livingston if we are in urgent need of some more ruthlessness) just as they would deal with someone like Dortmun Cidh.

We should be particularly wary of the wide players, whoever they may be. Even Sae Kim, nominally a defensive midfielder, managed to get in a crossed assist of her own against Elmyia. Emilio Schmidt is an all-purpose playmaker, almost a second striker, and less fond than his fellow midfielders of going out wide. It is therefore of the utmost importance that we have a midfield that is dynamic, well-staffed, and able to deal with problems as they arise. Unfortunately, this means that Kavezalea is surplus to requirements tomorrow; Sylvia Hollenberg is easily identifiable as our most flexible substitute and will be fielded in his place. Ohan is not a particularly astute defender, but neither is Northend and in any case he is the future more than she is.

The defenders will act almost like our defenders do - the centrebacks will hold the line, although not pushing up as often as ours do, while the fullbacks will be able to both keep play in check and push forward to make their own luck. There's a consensus that, if we can break down the midfield - which will involve all three of our CMs pushing forward and working to destabilise them - then we can easily shuffle past with just the front three and one or two of the CMs (probably not Bridget) and be in with a good shout of a goal. (Olympia brought up the fact that Daria Di Laura, never a starting defender even on her best days, is not available for this World Cup as she is pregnant; we believe that enough time has passed that she has given birth and would like to wish her child(ren) well. She added that she would like two children of her own eventually, one boy and one girl, and would happily pay to send them to the Preparatories.)

While I'm assuming that the classic one-to-eleven will be played by HUElavia tomorrow, Ignacio Casillas is particularly fond of his substitutes. Any player may be brought on at any time to inject similar energy into the match; Yume Narita is a particular threat, as she has consistently proven to be much more effective pound-for-pound than Uchee. If she is introduced, Bridget has said she would be willing to keep a much closer eye on her, allowing K and S to focus more closely on the midfield action.

We will be fielding a flat 4-5-1: Richardson; Winchester, Launceston, Vickers, Curran; Lawson, HOLLENBERG, Coombe, Matsuda, Ohan; Woodward. Players in CAPITAL LETTERS did not start against Valentine Z. The intention is that Bridget will stick around in midfield with one other player - normally Matsuda - while Hollenberg tries to push for opportunities. However, given the threat posed by crosses, Hollenberg and Matsuda may drift wide to prevent chances from arising.

The offside trap WILL OPERATE "ON DEMAND" against HUElavia. They are known for pumping in their long balls, often to great success, so we should not try and activate it unless Bridget and her assigned partner are in position and in control - thus freeing up our back four to push forwards and surprise Uchee.

To be clear:
- If we make the last sixteen, Bridget will be taking notes ahead of Eastfield Lodge or Tanirinthia.
- Should we reach the quarterfinals, our guest columnist will guide us through one of Squornshelous, West Barack and East Obama, HOT-DAMN or Valanora.
- In the semifinals, Reniira will produce what I am sure will be some amusing and amazing notes before we face one of Abahnfleft, Flavovespia, Pasarga, The 14 Stars, Kamijiro, StrayaRoos, Yuezhou, or Farfadillis.
- And Gentle Breeze will take the notes for the final or third-place playoff, which could come against any of the other sixteen teams in the knockouts... but if we are eliminated at the quarter-finals or earlier, she will be taking those notes.

The Grand Tour of Anaia - United Hawkland: A good place to have lunch, arguments, and sporting disagreements

by Lara Torridge - April 11th 2006

United Hawkland may be northern, but it is not cold, not at this time of year. The sun is shining outside - although it will do that in Saint Eleanor even when the temperature is approaching -10 degrees - my fellow and other passengers are reasonably dressed, and the man working the bureau de change is surprisingly happy to talk to me about just about any topic that comes to mind.

Exchange rate: 598 korona = 394.68 Hawklandian dollars (1 kharak = 0.66 Eleanorian dollars = 0.66 Hawklandian dollars)

That will be sixty-eight cents towards United Hawkland's leading cancer research charity, thank you very much. Ostad International Airport is, all things considered, not too far from the town itself. And nowhere in the town is too far from sporting trouble. I have the good fortune to be starting my day in the southern quarter of the city, near Four-Star Ostad's stadium; this is a happy coincidence, as the current vibe of their squad and the general vibe of the club very much reminds me of my beloved Sword and Shield. All the Four-Star fans I talk to - six of them in total - agree with my assessment. A few appreciate them personally and one of them, a twenty-something with even less to lose than I do, asks me out on a date. While I have multiple deadlines to make, I tell him that I would not mind having him around for lunch and a guided tour.

He does try to show me a couple of the sights; he's left alone at the National Museum and is chatted up by some Ostad Saint Mary fans outside yet another vintage bookstore (how I love those things) - which I quickly learn happens to be near to a church called Saint Mary's - but finds the attitude of the Ostad Purple fans near the Portrait Gallery to be unbearable and tells me to go there myself. I oblige, tell people I don't follow Hawklandian football, am chatted up by a couple of more locals myself, and very much appreciate this radically different perspective on national history. By the time we go for lunch, it is 4pm and we have to make do with what I think is the most diverse beef stew I have ever eaten. It turns out that there are also portions of lamb in it, which I appreciate as I have not eaten any lamb for the past nine months.

I need to make my own way through the capital's very central business district, which would be stone-cold Ostad Pillar country if it wasn't neutral territory for shopaholics of all stripes, for the rest of the day - trying my best to look around the supermarkets (unexciting), the bars (classy; I can't wait for the debauched ones), and the restaurants (I find one which is tolerable, and of course it has to serve a damn fine steak) - before I return back to my hotel, the location of which I have conveniently forgotten. I do tell the nearest taxi driver I find that that I need the Johansson Hotel, which I believe has the red brick exterior; he confirms my suspicions on both counts and lets me enjoy the most comfortable night's sleep I've had in a hot second.

Day 1: Summary

What I wore: the tiny little coat, long-sleeved shirt, slim-fit jeans, and sturdy boots
What I spent: 19 dollars
What I've got left over: 95 Eleanorian dollars for emergencies; 375 Hawklandian dollars

I will be flying a lot over the next few days. Royal Ryan is next on my bucket list; it is United Hawkland's second city, plus - with how many big cities are located on different islands, how little is going on in the mainland, and how desolate the countryside in these kind of places can be (I should know; I live in one) - I imagine that this will be very much a tour of cities more than anything else. I learn the hard way that my bohemian, bourgeois vibes have no place there, except maybe the airport, which I find to be grittier, closer to my real-life home, and home to more tolerable fast food outlets. This is because, as it turns out, Royal Ryan's football is split down a very working-class divide. Are you a Prolie (white, unionised, a Regals fan), or a Historic (Hokkish, mainline socialist, and definitely a Historics fan)? I prefer Four-Star Ostad, thank you.

This wins me few favours - not no favours, but certainly very few - in Historic territory. Their pubs feel cozy, but are in reality almost brutalist in their interior design, and I am in love with the quality of their stout; it is certainly better than the quality of their patrons. It wins me slightly more in Prolie territory, who almost welcome me in as one of their own, despite the murmurs of a substantial minority that I am not really one of them and that I should just be returned to Saint Eleanor. Their pubs are hostile at best and I do not want to drink anything more than a fraction of a pint in any of them, so I don't order at all. I figure that they're both annoying idiots who are not worthy of anything other than full-throated support, which would get me removed from international travel correspondent duty on account of being too partisan on such a controversial issue.

I do visit their museums, and find the white guilt inherent in some of them to be almost amusing - both given that so many of them appear to be frequented by Prolie types, and because Saint Eleanor has historically taken a great deal of pride in its war. I am eventually bored and end up giving one of the takeaway pizza places a shake; it is disappointing, but I imagine that the fact that this is a pizza restaurant in a country that knows precious little about pizza adds to the charm. It also helps that the owner of that place is a lifelong Pacifica FC fan who is about as suave, open, anti-discriminatory, and undeniably awesome as you would expect a lifelong Pacifica FC fan to be, which I assume has led him to avoid a great deal of grief. I'm still a Four-Star Ostad supporter, though.

Day 2: Summary

What I wore: the same as last time
What I spent: 10 korona
What I've got left over: 95 Eleanorian dollars for emergencies; 365 Hawklandian dollars

The hotel in Ostad was nice and splendid. The hotel in Royal Ryan is very much not, and I am thankful for it, as I have a flight to Grasmark that leaves at 8am. I catch it without having breakfast, finding that last night's pizza was sufficient and that, hopefully, today's lunch will be utterly satisfying. Upon arrival to the rather sleeker, more no-nonsense airport there, I book a cab. My driver does not care in the slightest about football. This is the happiest I have felt since arriving here.

In the interests of time, I have not booked a hotel in Grasmark. I do spend a good deal of time in the fancier, Grasmark Athletic part of the city, where my first order of business is to order a large coffee and a chocolate muffin. I am advised by the barista, naturally an Athletic fan, not to try and follow the football as it is insufferable and largely based on whatever conflict is most topical in each part. I don't even try to ask her what is going on in Grasmark, especially as it is largely - although not entirely - a one-club city. There is, as it turns out, enough going on to make my day worthwhile. One of the nation's finer art galleries is here; there are a few statues, a few murals about Athletic, a couple of nice coffee shops (which I am still in great need of, given my upcoming activities) and a nice little church, although not as notable as Saint Mary's, where I contemplate for a bit. (I'm an evangelical Christian, but not by very much.) Lunch is what every Eleanorian would imagine lunch to be, and I like it.

The other club in Grasmark is Grasmark SK. The east side of town is one I definitely find to be more pragmatic and hardened; I imagine it would be more ripe for gentrification, or whatever happened to Deepchester in the years after the war, if the creative types had not already settled in the west. I don't question the bus driver's judgment. Precious little is available to do there; maybe having a look around the historic trade-unionist quarter, but I believe that deserves a closer academic study. There are a couple of scuffles, but the people there are generally welcoming towards me, don't attack me - which is one of the perks of being a Four-Star Ostad supporter - and will, for whatever reason, give me an excellent recommendation for dinner. Six o'clock is no time to have dinner, but I have two flights to catch and this beef roast is large enough to keep me going for a while. It is infinitely better than the pizza, as well.

If you are wondering where all the Capital United fans are, they are in the east of the city. Some of them are also at the airport, as good fortune has it. I have to share my plane ride to Huayramarca with one of them, although she is absolutely not a superfan and is willing to have a reasonable conversation with me about everything from coffee to student journalism to boxing to the 83rd World Cup; it certainly makes a change from being on a half-empty flight with a load of people double my age.

Day 3: Summary

What I wore: the tiny little coat, long-sleeved shirt, normal jeans, and a pair of trainers
What I spent: 15 dollars
What I've got left over: 95 Eleanorian dollars for emergencies; 350 Hawklandian dollars

by **The Kytler Peninsulae** » Thu Jan 30, 2025 6:50 pm

This is the Hexadecifinal cutoff

by **Sarzonia** » Fri Jan 31, 2025 2:40 pm

The final score wasn't what the Sarzonian national football team or manager Caleb Rush wanted, but it got the job done.

Despite playing a Busoga Islands side that was the only one in the World Cup proper field ranked in the triple=digits, the Stars survived a desperate effort by the Cinderfella Islanders with a 1-0 victory that saw the Stars advance to the Round of 16 for the first time in well over a decade.

"Ugly win, but a result is a result," said Spencer Wilson, the forward who provided the only goal of the match in the 84th minute of action. "[Busoga Islands] fought hard and they were scrappy opponents."

John Wells rebounded from a three-goal effort against Tanirinthia with a clean sheet that saw him make six saves and forced him to move all over his box to shut down scoring angles and direct his defence. Wells would celebrate his birthday the next day sitting in an ice bath after a massage session.

"Not the way I wanted to celebrate turning 21," he said, "but I'll gladly take the result."

Rush said he wasn't pleased with the scoreline only seeing one Sarzonian goal, but at this point, "results are more important.

"I think we came out a little bit too tight," he said. "[Busoga] really forced us out of our planned tactics into a more frenetic approach."

The result means Sarzonia will face TJUN-ia in the Round of 16. Supporters from long ago may remember the team's encounter in the Cup of Harmony 14 cycles ago, but Rush said the team were focused "squarely on the present.

"They're a different squad from that first one we encountered. We're a different side. All that's happening is a Round of 16 match between two strong sides. They're favoured as the 25th ranked team in football whilst we're ranked 28th. We don't expect anything other than a strong matchup that needs no other billing than being a matchup in the Round of 16."

As for Rush himself, now that he's guided his side to at least one round better than the World Cup 97 side that barely made it in and barely made it past the group stage, he was asked if he felt a sense of accomplishment.

"That's something we'll take a look at after the cycle ends," he said. "Right now, we're focusing on what's in front of us." A reporter pointed out to Rush that both Juvencus and Tanirinthia from Sarzonia's World Cup group also advanced to the Round of 16, along with No. 1 ranked Valanora, who were in Sarzonia's World Cup qualifying group.

"It speaks to the quality of all those teams," Rush said. "Valanora are No. 1 for a reason. Juvencus are a top 10 side. Tanirinthia are No. 11. We had a difficult road to get here, and I couldn't be more proud of our effort in advancing to the Round of 16 against a gaggle of quality football sides."

by **Flavovespia** » Sat Feb 01, 2025 2:51 am

Nothing To Write Home About

It’s fair to say this will be a game few will want to remember, and some may not even remember. Some goalless have controversy, everything buy goals, or an element of intrigue. This had none of them. It’s not the worst 90 minutes of my life, but I’ve sat in a traffic jam for over 90 minutes that provided as much entertainment.
Alexander Schmitt

Flavovespia March On

If there were nerves, Flavovespia didn’t show them as in a game they had to step up, they certainly did. Needing a win to guarantee qualification, they nailed it, and progressed on, casting aside the concerns before kickoff.

With the stakes so high, it was a tentative start from both sides. It didn’t feel like it was as boring as the game against West Vdara, but there wasn’t a flurry of early attacks. Flavovespia however would be the ones to make the breakthrough in the 17th minute. Christopher Hill was the key playmaker, his great pass through the middle found the run of Peter Langdon perfectly. Langdon ran in stride with the ball, and a powerful shot slammed into the net, sending the Flavovespian crowd into raptures of joy.

A second followed less than 10 minutes later. Christopher Hill was again the star, the playmaker a nightmare for Zenic. A cutting through ball out wide found Jonathan Bagshaw. Bagshaw showed the skill he was so known for, a cut inside and a tidy finish into the corner. 0-2, and with that score at the break, Flavovespia were brimming with confidence.

Of course it wouldn’t be too easy for Flavovespia. Zenic fought back after the break, and about 10 minutes in, Cecil Maruscak found the net. A cross found him at the back post and his header was guided well into the corner. Zenic looked buoyed, Flavovespia now knew there was a single goal in it.

Flavovespia however soon recovered a new sense of determination sinking in. As has been the story of this cycle so far, it was defence making the difference, Zenic struggled to get many shots away. Flavovespia maybe missed a few half-chances to make it more comfortable, one of the few drawbacks of the game. Few would care about that at the final whistle though, Flavovespia were through to the knockout stages. Now the question, can they finally win a knockout game?
Patricia Evans

Five Star Flavovespia

Finally the barrier has been broken. Flavovespia win a World Cup knockout game, and wow! Few could be honest and say it was in the bag until the flurry at the end, but once that came, it was a flood of goals. Those moments will live on for a long time.

Abanhfleft we’re the opposition for Flavovespia, a fellow runner up in the group stages, a match that despite the ranking difference pre tournament, I doubt few would be confident to put money either way. Flavovespia were hopeful that nothing like the chaotic scenes at their last World Cup knockout game would occur, and that seemed the case, the opening quarter was a good, fair game, just lacking in goals.

The breakthrough for Flavovespia came in the 25th minute. Anthony Lane made a cutting run down the left wing before squaring the ball across the box. Peter Langdon was there to smash it home with a fierce shot to put Flavovespia in the lead. Could they finally do it?

Just 9 minutes later, the lead was doubled. This time it was Jonathan Bagshaw making a good run down the wing. He swung in a cross, and a deflection off Margo Kahn took the ball into the net. An own goal, and a doubling of the lead for Flavovespia. 0-2 at half time, it wasn’t all over yet, but what a position for Flavovespia.

However Abanhfleft came out firing, and a quick attack saw Hiroko Kellerman brought down by Paul Amos in the box, no disputing that decision. The penalty was sent brilliantly into the corner, 1-2 it was. Now the nerves were setting in for Flavovespia fans, anytime the ball entered their half.

It turned into attack vs defence, but in the 84th minute, the counter-attack hit the jackpot. A long clearance by Paul Taylor found Anthony Lane with few in front of him. A good run, and a pass to Jonathan Baghsaw opened up the opportunity and Shepherd finished it. 1-3, Flavovespia fired up now. And that would spark a goal flurry. Almost from the kick off, the Abanhfleft defence lost the ball. Charles Shepherd had a clear sight of goal, kept his cool, and buried the ball into the net, making it 1-4. Just before the 90 minutes was up, another counter attack saw Jonathan Bagshaw get the ball in a dangerous position he squared it to Charles Shepherd who rounded the keeper to finish. Abanhfleft scored a late consolation in injury time, but this was Flavovespia’s day. Finally, a World Cup knockout win, and done in style in the end. Next up, the journey continues against The 14 Stars.
Judd Stafford

by **The 14 Stars** » Sat Feb 01, 2025 4:04 am

The Starsian Miracle

It was there at last, the game against Pasarga it wasnt just any game but they were playing one of the best teams in the entire multiverse which alone was enough to send shivers down your spine if anything.
In recent years our team has grown rapidly from a backwater into a team punching far above its weigth and on our path to this day we already have brought down many better teams and shown that we could defy the odds if it was truly needed.
In the stadium the atmosphere was electric, many Starsian fans who had never seen the team get this far had bought tickets to be here to witness the biggest game so far and the sound of those cheering fans was music to the ears of the players.
One player had an extra honor today, Kira Blade was today making her 100th appearance and no one ever in the entire history of Starsian soccer had made so many appearances for our national team it was like never seen before.
It was this evening that things would be decided, the future of Starsian soccer and as the team sat together in the changing room coach Keira Walcott with the rest of the staff walked in as she nodded friendly.

She spoke the following words ''Good evening ladies and gentlemen, here we are today the round of 32 our best run in the world cup so far and we are playing against the powerhouse Pasarga tonight no easy game.
On behalf of the entire coaching staff i wanna congratulate already on getting this far and no matter how things turn out you already are part of the strongest generation of Starsian soccer players that has ever been.''

She paused before saying ''Our line-up tonight is, Emily Davis, Maddie Saturn, Federico Zaratti, Gideon Nightwalker, Eva Weber, Lina Hansen, Joy Sol, Layla Raharinaivo, Elizabeth Phillips, Paula Nuñez and lastly Kira Blade.
These will be our starters but do not thing just because you are on the bench that you are not needed, everyone has their qualities and all of you have shown your qualities whether it was in qualifications or here in the proper tournament.
I am extremely proud and honored to be a coach to such a great group of people and together we are gonna play this match and we will do our very best to win it aswell cause we're not here to miss out.''

Her short but powerful speech was met with a loud roar in agreement from the players who pakced their things and headed to the field, there they met the Pasargan team aswell who were more then ready for their game.
They had years of experience and were world cup veterans so for them it was perhaps refreshing to see a team as hungry as The Starsian Wolves but they would be stupid if they werent expecting us to fight back in any case.
After the national anthem the game was delayed a few minutes as a small ceremony was created for Kira Blade and Maximillian Flare the Preesident of the Starsian Soccer association took word.
All of the stadium Starsians but also Pasargans would listen to what he had to say as he stood before Kira with the microphone and his assistant carrying an award and flowers.

''Ladies and Gentlemen fans and players Pasargan or Starsian before we start i would like to take this moment, to honor our greatest player in history who today plays her 100th game for the Starsian national team here.''

He turns to Kira ''Kira Blade, you have been not just a soccer player, you have been a friend, a former teammate of me even and you have developed yourself into a great player and a leader who has done great things.
You have brought our national soccer team forward, to heights we never thought possible, you have inspired many young people even some of the players here on the field with you today and you have inspired many young women in our country.
For all your efforts both on and off the field we wish to present to you this award and some flowers as a thank you for two decades of service to our national soccer team....but also to Starsian Soccer in general.
Thank you Kira, for everything that you have done for us so far and it wont stop here, together im sure we will continue to support the many generations that come after us and look up to you as a legendary player.''

Kira could not help it but cry a little from the heartfelt words ''Wow....i dont even know what to say.....thank you so much i just did my very best for the team, the country and i wanted to make those fans always cheering for us proud.
I'm not often speechless......but this time.......im speechless....i am glad i had the opportunity and ability to play such a big role in our soccer development and its success up to where we stand now.....its a true honor.''

A loud applause was given across the stadium even Pasargans would applaud out of respect ofcourse but for a player who had been very influential both on and off the field for their opponents of tonight and that was respectable.
As everything was sorted then the game at last could begin, all players took their position and the Starsians had this quiet determination that has brought them very far already and they were determined to do it once again.
Kick off was done by the Pasargan team and immediately there was alot of pressure on the Starsian team and they were pushed, they were forced to defend by a team that played very strong, they had a player extra on the midfield but one less on offense and the agressive line-up resulted in the a very one sided game at first where Pasarga had the upper hand.
In the 34th minute a corner kick a guy called Bogdan Laszlo a striker would put Pasarga on a 1-0 lead which had been expected because well Pasarga was obviously the better team and the favourite to win this match aswell.
However the Starsian at the end of the first half were able to counter with Zaratti stealing the ball with a brilliant sliding tackle passing to Lina Hanse who dodged an opponent and gave the pass to Joy Sol the playmaker, she looked around and saw Elizabeth Phillips with a great run and quickly gave a long pass to her and Phillips went inbetween two opponents and got through as she took a shot.
Pasarga had luck there as the goalkeeper was quick on their feet and caught the well placed shot by Phillips at the end of the first half, it wouldnt be long after before the referee called halftime.

During halftime there was alot of talk about how the Pasargans were good but that they also had a specific weak spot which was that they let alot of space behind this last line of defense with four people.
Their four defense stood on the same line where the Starsians had Zaratti a bit behind the other three defenders as a bit of a last resort, this also was a way to keep the offense from Pasarga in check.
However substitutions were needed and Kimora Frazier was brought instead of Kira Blade and Elizabeth Phillips was replaced by Iris Olivier the belief was that younger and more creative players could force the issue here more then the veterans, this proved as so much before to be a key move and one that changed the flow of the game after halftime very very much.
Those Pasargan players knew the ways of the veterans but younger players like Olivier and Frazier aswell as Nuñez are very unpredictable at times and with a solid defense the counter attacks became more and more until it was finally there, from a great assist by Lina Hansen to Iris Olivier it was an incredible move past the defense and a shot in the far corner by Iris Olivier that equalized it.
No one had expected the equalizer like that in the 61st minute but the crowd went wild, there was an actual game it was all open again and there was no sign of slowing down by the Starsian Wolves either.

More time passed and the game seemed to course on to a stalemate, however when you do not expect it anymore then sometimes miracles just happen and thats exactly what happened in this specific match.
It was 90+4 minute it was the last corner of the game, Emily Davis the goalkeeper asked the coach if she could move up and Walcott gave her permission to go out of her goal and be there for the final corner that could be game decisive if anything.
Lina Hansen took the corner and swinged the ball in and the ball got caught inbetween a web of legs and it was finally cleared by defender Horvat from Pasarga.....but cleared right into the feet of Emily Davis of all people.
As a goalkeeper Emily Davis did not hestitate and took the shot and to her own shock....it went in....Emily Davis of all people the goalkeeper had just scored the 1-2 and she had scored the winning goal, a second later the refereen blew the whistle for the end of the game and everyone was equally stunned about what had just happened on this field.

But everyone of the Starsian team rushed to Emily and she was carried across the field like a queen, she had done the impossible she had not just scored no she had scored the winning goal and thanks to her they were now in the round of 16.
Emily Davis the Starsian top goalkeeper had made history true history by scoring the most insane goal ever and winning the biggest game ever for her team as the Pasargans with shock and surprise alike left the venue....still a bit unsure how this happened.

Newspapers would be full of it next day all about Emily Davis, she had commented ''Im still amazed i mean, the ball just fell to my feet and i thought i'd take a shot and it went in.....i really didnt expect this but im so glad! im glad i could do this for the team!''

Next up was Flavovespia....it was the current number 9 on the world ranking......but hey after just beating Pasarga? who knows maybe the Starsians could continue their amazing form and advance further? nothing seemed impossible right now.

World Cup 81/82/83/84

Baker Park through against co-hosts as Arrosia show depth in knockouts
Scott McCrae
The Daily Mail Chief Soccer Writer

The Commonwealth of Baker Park National Team survived a comeback bid by The Kytler Peninsulae to advance in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since they defeated Cassadaigua 7-6 on penalties in the Round of 16 in World Cup 90 at the Queen Victoria Stadium in Ezriquay.

The 3-2 victory in Alaer was the first knockout stage win on foreign soil since World Cup 88 when BP defeated Newmanistan by the same score at United Center in Urreheddiao, Chromatika in the Round of 16; that match was the 195th WCC sanctioned match the Commonwealth had played at that point and in a coincidence of symmetry, the fixture at the Clituleng Giisost Stadium was the 390th all time.

The Bees will face Juvencus in the octofinal, which brings another link to WC 88 into play as those nations faced each other during the qualifying for that tournament, the first two of their four meetings that have produced three draws and a Baker Park win--also 3-2--including group stage fixtures in the last World Cup as well as in World Cup 93.

Terrell London's third tally of the Finals was the ultimate difference between the sides but came under different circumstances than his performance versus Vdara in Jiangdong as the white clad visitors raced out to a 3-0 lead, with Magda Kucera smashing in a rebound off a Cyndi Garfield free kick just 4 minutes after kickoff to open the scoring, the seventh international goal for the captain on the night tying her with Tracy Vasillias for second among NT defenders all-time.
Fatima Khan would've doubled the lead less than five minutes later had the crossbar not intervened in Kuno Zeelen's favor, with another attack straight from the resulting goal kick giving Garfield a look at goal from open play that she just missed wide to the far post; the expressway speed one way traffic threatened to leave the green kitted hosts in peril when Travis Howard barged into the box with the ball at feet splitting Svenson and Donk, the latter's attempt to muscle the Jamestown City man away coming up woefully inadequate as well as leaving Erika Riley unmarked to tap in at the near post. After a quarter of an hour it was 2-0 but felt psychically like 5-0 to the 11,000 away fans at the opposite end of the stadium that alternated verses of "We Are the Gold & Black" with chants of "Who Are Ya?".

The Kytlerians eventually found their composure and went through a period of sustained possession that only stemmed the flow briefly as Park regained the momentum heading into the final 12 minutes of the opening period, as Zeelen was the target of a virtual shooting gallery with the ball flying over and around his goal seemingly at will. Only four BP shots were recorded as being on target but that only made up about a third of the total number recorded at halftime.

The Bees resumed their frantic pass rate opening up the second half which led to London's match winner on 51 minutes; Khan's shot from the edge of the box was blocked by Svensson but fell to Howard, who chipped it into the path of the runner who headed it down to beat a frozen Zeelen. Like his celebration against Vdara, London picked up a yellow card meaning he will be unavailable for the next match and also triggered a small scale crowd disturbance among the supporters closest to the pitch which required intervention from the local stewards and the extra FAC safety personnel brought along to prevent a repeat of the scenes in Jiangdong.

Khan had another shot slam off the crossbar in the 58th minute and Zeelen saved Garfield's penalty after Shrifflu Mocks was judged to have had the ball deflect off of his forearm, capping off a disappointing night for the players in the lineup from the club side FC Alaer that call the venue home

Petúr Ingólfsson pulled one back for TKP in the 80th minute with a brilliant individual effort and Vicente beat Geoff Cotterill from the spot with literally the last kick of the match after sub Marcus Taylor brought down Lomu during a late stoppage time corner kick, the only attacking third set piece Kytler won over the course of the 90+ minutes; the final whistle was barely audible beneath the singing of "Songs of Praises" that rang out from the Baker Park end through most of the six added minutes on an emotional night that will go down in the history books as a famous BP performance.

BP are one of five nations from Arrosia that remain alive after Sarzonia outlasted Busoga Islands and Siovanija & Teusland fell to 3rd ranked Kelssek, leaving defending champions Sqournshelan Remnant States, world number one Valanora and 4th ranked Farfadillis still carrying the regional flag along with the Bees and Stars.

Post match comments
Manager Will Barnard: "Really couldn't be more proud of our team tonight under the circumstances. Winning against the co-hosts on their home turf, playing the way we know we are capable of playing every time out. There's only survivors from here on and I think we are every bit as strong as the rest."

Forward Terrell London: "Two headers. I wouldn't have dreamed that if you'd said 'imagine how you'll score three (goals) in two at the World Cup' before we started. I've been in the right place at the right time for both. If the choice is not being available for the next match (due to suspension) or the alternative, I'll take watching in street clothes every time."

Forward Fatima Khan, Player of the Match: (laughs accepting the award) "I don't think I've ever gotten an award for not scoring! T-L and I were excited to be in the team tonight after our last pairing, as I think Will and Zoe saw that it's hard for defenders to key on one or the other of us.
Now we'll have to wait to see if there's another chance for us to play together here "

The Kytler Peninsulae (Ingólfsson 80', Vicente [pen] 90+6) 2-3 Baker Park (Kucera 4', Riley 14', London 51')

Possession: K 41 B 59
Shots (on goal): K 4 (1) B 25 (8)
Saves: K 6 B 0
Yellow Cards: K 2 (Mikkelson, S. Mocks). B 3 (London, Morgan, Taylor)
Red Cards: none
missed penalty: B 1 (Garfield)

Referee: MacBarack (WBEO)
Att: 54,750

Lineup vs Juvencus Round of 16

Albertson; Frost, O'Connor, McKenzie; S. Logan, D'Alessandro, Kirby, Prince; McDavid; Coleman, Engels
subs: Cotterill, J. Morris, Finnegan, Taylor, Andrews, Kucera, C. Logan, Douglas, Garfield, Martini, Howard, Cohen-Abdullah, Hardison, Grayson, Riley

World Cup 98 | RP thread

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