Independent Associations Championship 23 [Everything IC]

by **Crpostran** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 1:58 am

by **Tanirinthia** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 2:12 am

THE LAST DIPLOMAT
Chapter Two - Foreign Shores

He still couldn't believe it, he had travelled far in his time from snowy peaks to ancient caves but he here was some where truly foreign, alien. He had often joked to himself during the long boring stretches of time that the only reason the department remained open was to greet little green men like in the movies, however the aliens he found himself in front of now looked remarkably normal, neither little or green. He had gone over the preliminary files supplied during the journey to Reçueçn and although there were truly strange peoples out there to meet, where he found himself now was strangely familiar echoing of home. Much like Tanirinth although cars were present, trains seemed to be the most used mode of transport for getting around the country at large.

But now it was time to earn his keep, the Reçueçn delegation from the Ministry of Sport stood waiting to receive them. As well as going over the files on his journey, he went over the training he had gotten all those years ago. It was odd to think that there was a chain of people going back three hundred odd years, that had each passed knowledge down that they had never used in practice, he did worry that perhaps some lessons had been lost or changed over that time, but he was going to find out now.

All seemed to go well in the end, introductions were made, swapping of ceremonial presents in this case a sampling of Reçueçn cheese in exchange for a Tanirinthian wine selection, pleasantries were exchanged and then a parting of companies wherein we were guided to the hotel the delegation and football team would be staying in

Chapter One | Chapter Two

by **Recuecn** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 2:50 am

Protests continue in Reçueçn during
Matchday 5

Group A
Games played at Stade National, Reçueçn
United States of Devonta 0–3 Indusse
Dhemixia 1–0 Reçueçn

  Group A                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Dhemixia                      4   3  0  1    9   4  +5    9     Q
2 Reçueçn                       4   3  0  1    3   1  +2    9     Q
3 Indusse                       4   2  1  1    6   3  +3    7
4 Vaishnavaria                  4   0  2  2    4   8  −4    2
5 United States of Devonta      4   0  1  3    3   9  −6    1

Group B
Games played at Hôtel Chapelle-Pré, Reçueçn
Calgasia 0–2 Aphrilia
Britonisea 0–2 Valentine Z

  Group B                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valentine Z                   4   4  0  0   14   7  +7   12     Q
2 Aphrilia                      4   2  1  1    9   5  +4    7     Q
3 Calgasia                      4   2  0  2    9   8  +1    6
4 Oscioru                       4   1  1  2    2   5  −3    4
5 Britonisea                    4   0  0  4    1  10  −9    0

Group C
Games played at Siegstadion, Zimmerich
Wedich 2–3 Crpostran
Grand Exultia 1–0 Of the Golden Harp

  Group C                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Crpostran                     4   4  0  0   15   6  +9   12     Q
2 The Elder Lands               4   3  0  1    7   4  +3    9     Q
3 Grand Exultia                 4   2  0  2    5   9  −4    6
4 Wedich                        4   1  0  3    4   6  −2    3
5 Of the Golden Harp            4   0  0  4    1   7  −6    0

Group D
Games played at Champ de Sport, Renwyll
Sel Appa 0–3 Natkr
Poafmersia 0–3 HUElavia

  Group D                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 HUElavia                      4   1  3  0    6   3  +3    6     Q*
  Natkr                         4   1  3  0    9   6  +3    6     Q
3 Delaclava                     4   1  3  0    8   6  +2    6
4 Sel Appa                      4   1  1  2    2   6  −4    4
5 Poafmersia                    4   0  2  2    4   8  −4    2
*Tie broken by coin flip

Group E
Games played at Stade de la Reformation, Genève
Woodsmere 0–2 Saterun
Seeberg 1–0 Abanhfleft

  Group E                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Visayas Islands               4   4  0  0   11   0 +11   12     Q
2 Seeberg                       4   3  0  1    8   5  +3    9     Q
3 Saterun                       4   2  0  2    8   6  +2    6
4 Abanhfleft                    4   0  1  3    4  11  −7    1
5 Woodsmere                     4   0  1  3    4  13  −9    1

Group F
Games played at Stade Carl III, Reçueçn
Beefsteak City 1–5 Adab
Juvencus 2–0 Drawkland

  Group F                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Juvencus                      4   3  1  0    9   1  +8   10     Q
2 Drawkland                     4   3  0  1   11   6  +5    9     Q
3 Adab                          4   2  1  1    9   4  +5    7
4 Beefsteak City                4   1  0  3    7  15  −8    3
5 Sajnur                        4   0  0  4    4  14 −10    0

Group G
Games played at Arena der Alpen, Heldingen
Tanirinthia 2–3 Sudilia
Vixette 0–2 Yuugria

  Group G                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Ile de Richelieu              4   3  1  0   11   3  +8   10     Q
2 Sudilia                       4   3  0  1    6   4  +2    9     Q
3 Tanirinthia                   4   1  2  1    7   6  +1    5
4 Yuugria                       4   1  1  2    3   8  −5    4
5 Vixette                       4   0  0  4    2   8  −6    0

Group H
Games played at Stade de l’Alliance, Genève
Taxhavn 1–2 Ralsalin
Omerica 0–1 Edsmontik

  Group H                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Edsmontik                     4   2  2  0    6   4  +2    8     Q
2 Chobotan                      4   2  1  1    4   4   0    7     Q
3 Ralsalin                      4   2  0  2   10  10   0    6
4 Taxhavn                       4   1  1  2    6   4  +2    4
5 Omerica                       4   1  0  3    6  10  −4    3

Round of 16 Matchups
Dhemixia vs Aprhilia
Stade National, Reçueçn

Valentine Z vs Reçueçn
Hôtel Chapelle-Pré, Reçueçn

Crpostran vs Natkr
Siegstadion, Zimmerich

HUElavia vs The Elder Lands
Champ de Sport, Renwyll

Visayas Islands vs Drawkland
Stade de la Reformation, Genève

Juvencus vs Seeberg
Carl III Stadium, Reçueçn

Ile de Richelieu vs Chobotan
Arena der Alpen, Heldingen

Edsmontik vs Sudilia
Stade de l’Alliance, Genève

Edit: MD5, not MD4! Silly me

by **Taxhavn** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 4:50 am

Taxhavn 1-2 Ralsalin
Shillingmen Out!

Another flop at the Indies

The absence of Zubi Zuberbühler can be no excuse for another flop at the Indies by Taxhavn, who really are not taking very well to tournament football - each showing getting worse than the last. Here only a win would do to get the Shillingmen through, and they knew a win would be enough. Not only that, but after taking an 11th minute lead through Super-Zubi's replacement Jeroen Blenkers, the Taxhavnite fan contingent had reason to believe they were on track for the knockout stages. Early signs of celebration in the stands at the Stade de l’Alliance in Genève were perhaps indicative of a general over-confidence, or at least complacence on the pitch. Things soon started to unravel. Ralsalin keeper Nikolai Gosens looping kick upfield in the 20th minute evaded everyone, including an embarrassed Barnaby Flexney who was too far forward to prevent a less-than-one-in-a-thousand event of a goalkeeper scoring from open play. Gosens looked almost as embarrassed as he did delighted, and was subject of a player mobbing for his unexpected equaliser. From that point on, it was all downhill for the Shillingmen, and a wonder that only one more goal, Kevin Heen's 32nd minute winner, was conceded in a match where all the big money FA-Tax is spending on national team development seemed to flush down the pan.

In a quick and ominous statement shortly afterward, a spokesperson from FA-Tax confirmed they remain fully behind new appointee Nelis Fijnwever; they also confirmed their intention to sign up the juniors for the Under-21 World Cup and stated that players in that squad would likely be playing for a place in the next IAC, with a full revamp on the way. Disappointed seniors in the dressing room will be wondering if their flight home from the confluence of the Rhône and Säone rivers in Reçueçn will be their last as a Shillingman. And so they should wonder, too, after serving up what can only be described as a load of Reçueçnaise Tripe. (Although that's pretty tasty, in my experience).

Taxing Football
Franchise Football

Concluding our series on the development of Taxhavnite football, we look at how the domestic scene has entered its ‘fourth age’ - internationalism.

SteuerLig commissioner Mert de Reckonaere happened to be on vacation at his rather spectacular hillside farm property overlooking the village of Oughna, on the edge of the Garga Marshes in the Delte Valley when his PA called from back home St. Bernadine city to advise him it was probably time to leave the valley for a while. The Rake Teinton Women’s Institute had taken control of all the valley institutions, Margaret Honeyshine - who lives in the house on Rake Corner where the chimney fire happened - had been put in place as de facto leader, and Moira Hough - tech-savvy Gen-90 silver surfer - seemed to be calling the shots from right next to Margaret’s desk in the Trapezoid Office at the Delte River Trust. Resistance to the anti-democracy coup d’etât was mobilising and the long forecast Second Uncivil War was about to begin. Widow Arrinburton, notorious bully and a general of the WI in charge of ‘Activities’ had declared the Delte football team, which had twice failed to emulate its success in World Cup ’95, a corruption of foreign and liberal interference, and had banned them from returning from Pasarga. Mert’s PA had sent a private jet to a private aerodrome that the WI probably didn’t know about yet, and also a helicopter to the farm to get them on a rendevous with the jet. It was time for an emergency polit-evac.

On the flight home Mert recognised an astounding opportunity, and by the time he had landed at St. Bernadine International, the Deltic World Cup team had been diverted from their somewhat aimless flight out of Pasarga - they were on their way to Taxhavn. By the time they touched down, Mert had cleared a way for this group of gifted refugees to form a club and become a team in the top flight of the SteuerLig. They would enter at the same time as his other pet project, Taxhavn City, and there would be a natural rivalry between two unstoppable sides. Did anyone protest? Well no, not really. After all, these poor guys were exiled now. And if their World Cup had ended miserably, they still had the cache of having won it once before. Plus, someone’s got to stop the hated Taxhavn City from sweeping all before them.

(As it happens, half the SteuerLig managed to stop Taxhavn City and they were a laughing stock from the final whistle of their first ever match - a 5-1 defeat at Raven Thöni. Deltic FC, on the other hand, won the SteuerLig title in style at their first attempt.)

Before either City or Deltic kicked a ball in anger, while the process to enroll them automatically into the top flight was just clearing the FA-Tax legal department, Mert was approached by a group of ‘investors’ and mad-crazy football fans out of Bonesea, fronted by three former players who had won an IAC by beating Schottia, had won a Cup of Harmony by beating Schottia, and had been runners-up in the World Cup final by losing to, um, Schottia. AP Kelly, Curan Paynter and Buddock Mawla, plus ‘investors’, wanted to build a club for the SteuerLig. They were keen to rent some land on von Arnold Island, where FA-Tax was building SoccerLand, to build a stadium there, and to literally buy a place in SteuerLig-1. The likes of Orchideeën, Raven, FC Städeli and Standard Lily all rolled their eyes - here we go again, they thought. Mert de Reckonaere pulled a serviette out of his pocket, got AP, Curan and Budd to sign it, and a deal was done - coming soon to the SteuerLig, a third franchise - Boldsea. The stadium on von Arnold Island is nearly done, and Boldsea will join the league the season after next.

But why stop there? Mert is looking for more angles and more franchise teams, with more money to spend and more losses to make. Because Taxhavn. Rumours of a Wightling team are beginning to look pretty accurate, and former Wight & Delte World Cup winning geriatric wizard Climo Coss is fronting that one. Polarian Aslak Hrafninnsson, who plays for Orchideeën and runs his School For Hard Kicks out of von Arnold Island, is wondering about a senior team for his waifs and strays, while political analysts are running the rule over unstable states and assessing political pressure-points for more potential refugee teams. Franchise football is here.

by **Ile de Richelieu** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 5:43 am

Île de Richelieu tops group G

Heldingen, Reçueçn - Group stage is already over in the Independent Associations Championship 23 and Île de Richelieu has qualified for the round of 16. The Bears tops group G with 3 wins and a draw in 4 games. Île de Richelieu played against their main rival, Tanirinthia, on matchday 1 and drew 1-1 with a goal from Rose-Émilie Bouthillette (Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl got the assist). Matchday 2 was a 1-0 win against newcomers Vixette. Goal from Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl (assist by Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl).

On game 3, the Bears exploded with 7 goals against Yuugria. 21 years old Knut Olav Aasgaard opened the score at the 6th minute when he received the ball from Rose-Émilie Bouthillette and kicked it into the net. Île de Richelieu increased their lead at the 24th minute when Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl scored on a free kick. Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois passed the ball to Knut Olav Aasgaard at the 27th minute, who headed the ball past Kish Junne. Tor Øivind Urdahl made a short pass to Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl at the 29th minute. He shoots but the ball hits the post. The ball falls on Rose-Émilie Bouthillette's foot who kicks it right into the net. Yuugria finally puts their name on the scoring board with a goal by Sammya Shag on a cross from Hasna Ofanni at the 36th minute. Île de Richelieu increased their lead at the 42nd minute when Tor Øivind Urdahl made a cross to Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl who shoots the ball and she scores. The score at halftime was 5-1 Île de Richelieu.

Yuugria attacked at the 65th minute when Molhammen Vi tried to pass the ball forward but Vladimir Gutierrez Salazar intercepts the ball and made a short pass to Katarina Sundby who made a long pass to Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois who kicks the ball and it's a goal. Astrid Kjellberg had the ball at the 80th minute when she made a forward pass to Knut Olav Aasgaard who heads the ball into the net for his 3rd goal of the game. The final score was 7-1 Île de Richelieu.

GAME SUMMARY

6th     GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Knut Olav Aasgaard assisted by Rose-Émilie Bouthillette
24th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl (free kick)
27th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Knut Olav Aasgaard assisted by Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois
29th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Rose-Émilie Bouthillette assisted by Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl
36th    GOAL YUUGRIA     Sammya Shag assisted by Hasna Ofanni
42nd    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl  assisted by Tor Øivind Urdahl
65th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois assisted by Katarina Sundby
80th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Knut Olav Aasgaard assisted by Astrid Kjellberg

On matchday 4, Île de Richelieu played against Sudilia and won 2-1. Xavier Maisonneuve-Tranchemontagne wasn't on the starting XI because he was suspended ans Valkyrie Dahlen replaced him. The Bears attacked at the 17th minute when Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl passed to the side to Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl who kicks the ball past Christian McCoy. Sudilia tied the game at the 59th minute when Danielle Wright made a header pass to Katherine Laviolette who recieves the ball on her foot and kicks it into the net. Île de Richelieu attacked at the 74th minute when Knut Olav Aasgaard kicks the ball on John Macdonald's arm in the penalty area. Rose-Émilie Bouthillette kicks the penalty and it's a goal. The Bears won 2-1 and they are 1st in group G with 3 wins and a draw in 4 games. Île de Richelieu will play in the round of 16 against Chobotan, runners up of group H with two wins, a draw and a loss. Xavier Maisonneuve-Tranchemontagne will be back in the starting XI but Hjalmar Boberg will miss the game because of a foot injury and Carolanne Lacouture will replace him in the starting XI.

GAME SUMMARY

17th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl assisted by Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl
59th    GOAL SUDILIA     Katherine Laviolette assisted by Danielle Wright
74th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Rose-Émilie Bouthillette (penalty)

Knut Knutsen

by **HUElavia** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 6:34 am

Poafmersia 0-3 HUElavia
(Narita 17', Schmidt 22', Miyamoto 44')
Champ de Sport, Renwyll, Recuecn

HERE IS THE HUELAVIA OF THE IAC!
HUElavia dominates Poafmersia in a historic victory to advance as Group D winners!

Matchday 5 was upon the IAC, and at this point, HUElavia was playing an elimination game from this point onwards. Anything short of a victory would send the team back to Curumba for the off-season. Knowing this, Coach Casillas brought out the A-Team, with Girard and Narita starting over Pavlona and Arruda respectively, with otherwise the main squad starting, now being rested. Thousands upon thousands of HUElavians descended to Champ de Sport to make this feel like a home game in HUElavia, especially against an old foe in Poafmersia.

HUElavia was not playing around, dominating possession and playing along the wings in free flow that is characteristic of this team.The Poafmersian defense was being pinned more and more into their box, with Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos not giving them much breathing room, yet REDACTED would block and make saves to prevent HUElavia from taking the lead. This barrage of attacks would pay off, as in the 17th minute, a long ball from Kim would reach to Narita, who got past REDACTED to send a low shot past REDACTED into the goal, making it 0-1. The HUElavian crowd erupted in joy and cheer as Narita got the ball and began to run back, with her teammates patting her in celebration, with them all knowing they needed to run up the score to guarantee the advance. Lighting would strike twice minutes later, as a pass from Milano would get to Schmidt, where Poafmersian players would try to dispossess Schmidt, but he'd get past, one, two three defenders with excellent ball control before ripping a strong, low shot past REDACTED into the goal, making it 0-2. The HUElavian crowd erupted once more with more cheer and passion while Schmidt got the ball and ran back, not wanting to celebrate soon with what was at stake. Poafmersia would try attacks from REDACTED and REDACTED, but the HUElavian backline stood string and Ancel made saves and blocks look routine. In the 44th minute, Milano was on the ball after getting a pass from Kim, looking for an option before seeing Miyamoto sprinting last REDACTED, whipping a low cross into the box before Miyamoto tipped her foot to hit the ball past REDACTED into the goal, making it 0-3. Miyamoto was mobbed by her teammates and the bench in joy for clearing what they needed, while the HUElavisn crowd erupted into joy and passion to make the stadium rumble from them getting what they needed to advance, all right before the half. The second half was a wash at thar point, with Poafmersia having the wind out of their sails knocked out. Barely any chances could be made, as the HUElavian defense would stand strong, refusing to alter the score and have to go all out some more. Eventually after two minutes of additional time, the referee blew their whistle, with the bench running out onto the pitch to celebrate the advance.

In the other Group D match, Natkr did their part in blowing out Sel Appa 0-3 as well. Thus, by coin flip after the Sel Appa-Natkr match, HUElavia wins Group D with 6 Points and +3 goal difference, while Natkr gets 2nd with 6 Points and +3 goal difference at the expense of Delaclava in 3rd with 6 points and +2 goal difference. Sel Appa finish in 4th with 4 points, while Poafmersia finish in 5th with 2 Points. HUElavia will stay once more at Renwyll, as they will host Group C runner-up The Elder Lands for the Round-of-16. Coach Casillas was quoted post-game saying "We finally played up to our expected level and talent and the team really proved that. They were all great all around and I couldn'thave asked for a better performance than today. We now gotta focus taking on The Elder Lands, a solid, respectable team, and we cannot underestimate them. We hope to continue our stay in Recuecn and make more great memories here. We got a lot to study and train for the coming days, but we're happy and motivated to do more. We hope to count on our fans to show up and to make it loud and passionate." Wheb asked about the protests. Coach Casillas had this to say: "I can understand the concern some fans have with a co-ed team, but we went through that decades ago and at the end it has been a resounding success for the women, the team, and the country. Sure, there can be some issues, especially in the locker room, but we've put together plans to ensure privacy for our men and women while changing. At the end, I think it'dbe worthwhile for Recuecn to have a co-ed national team, afterall it'd be the best of the very best representing the country. I'm in supoort of the Recuecn's FA in implementing this change and I think fans will come around to supporting it well." HUElavia avoid an early group stage exit and extend their knockout appearances to 16 consecutive knockout appearances, dating back to IAC 8. It truly is a new game at this point with every game being an elimination game. Here's to hoping for a great performance and the advance.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

by **Recuecn** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 7:26 am

Rébecca Firaut had always been someone fans of Reçuecian soccer recognized. When she was still a newborn baby, her father brought her to the ÉNRF locker room to introduce her to the squad, and she'd been all but part of the team ever since. She often attended her father's games—both for les licornes and for Reçueçn FC—with her mother Samantha, and fans had come to recognize her. Not that she was famous, but if you'd been paying attention, you knew who it was when the cameras showed a young girl and her mom in the stands at games in Reçueçn.

Sometimes, when the ÉNRF played World Cup qualifying games abroad, but more especially for tournaments held in other nations, the entire Firaut family would go along, and Reçuecian TV cameras might find Rébecca and Samantha in the crowd at the stadium during a match. But this was pretty rare—after all, it was expensive to travel overseas for every tournament, and even when they did, the Firauts were not spending their time (or money!) in VIP boxes or trying to draw the attention of the cameras.

Right now at the IAC, however, all eyes were on Rébecca. With nations from around the multiverse in attendance at the tournament, more people than ever before were tuning in to watch games being played in Reçueçn. Cameras at the Stade National broadcast matches to many far-flung nations. The stadium was just a few blocks from the Firauts' house in the banlieue of Reçueçn City, and normally, when it wasn't hosting IAC games, Rébecca was in and out of it to see her dad at ÉNRF practices. She felt at home there, and now that crowds of tourists were descending on Reçueçn to watch the games, Rébecca saw an opportunity to draw attention to her cause.

Rébecca was a girl on a mission. She knew what she wanted her future to be, but it was going to be a struggle to make it happen. She wouldn't be able to just go to school and study for her dream job like other kids. The job she wanted didn't exist; or rather, the job Rébecca wanted was off limits for her as a girl in Reçueçn. What Rébecca wanted was to play on the ÉNRF like her dad, but FNRF policy prohibited women from joining the team. Female soccer players in Reçueçn were forced to play in their own leagues, and not allowed to compete in international play.

But Rébecca was not going to let any of that stop her. If she couldn't just get her dream job, she would merely have to create it first, and then she could have it. Last year, she had had the chance to speak directly with Jean-Luc Lassalle, the Minister of Sport, and she was confident that he would support her in bringing the federation to reason. But with all the chaos of IAC preparations across the country, no progress had been made in the past year, and so now Rébecca was taking drastic action. After all, the clock was ticking! She wanted to play professionally when she was in her prime!

The IAC was the perfect opportunity. All those viewers from all those different places would be exposed to the injustice of the Reçuecian system. An institution such as the FNRF moved slowly, even more so when attempting to reform, but Rébecca hoped that international pressure could light a fire underneath it.

The protests had begun as soon as the tournament started. At first they were small. Groups of mostly women demonstrated outside stadiums, holding signs and chanting as fans entered for matches. But Rébecca realized that the attention was not on the outside of the stadium. All the cameras and coverage were within. So even as the movement grew and attracted more supporters, she planned out how carry out a demonstration on the pitch.

Fortunately, the teenager had connections. Obviously, there was her dad Gerauld, the ÉNRF team captain. Franky Adams, Reçueçn's striker and biggest star, was a family friend—in fact, he'd developed a particular friendship with Rébecca herself, coaching her in soccer and showing up for her birthday parties. He had put her in touch with Jeanne Chartray, the FNRF representative for the Ministry of Sport, since Franky had briefly worked for the ministry. And Jeanne had put Rébecca in touch with Eveline Martel, her fellow board member and FNRF representative for women's sport.

The eventual protest had included signs and a large banner displayed at the match against Devonta, and the équipe nationale, upon Gerauld's request, had supported the cause by donning pink and black armbands during the national anthem. The protest had been highly visible, both to attendees and to those watching the game on TV. Even better, a segment of the television coverage showing a teary-eyed Rébecca holding a sign had gone viral on social media. In the background of the clip, many of Rébecca's connections—the other protest leaders—were visible, holding the large "LET GIRLS PLAY" banner over their heads (although the banner wasn't legible in the video).

Rébecca was immensely pleased with the results of the protest, and hoped to repeat it at the next game against Dhemixia. This time, however, rather than relying on a cadre of leaders, Rébecca wanted the protest to be a grassroots affair. She took to social media again, filming a video with her father. "I am not giving up on my goal," she said in the video. "It's my dream to play soccer for Reçueçn someday, and I want that to be possible not just for me, but for any girl in this country."

"I need your help," she went on. "You saw me at the Stade National yesterday. I'm going to be there again tomorrow, and I know a lot of you are too. If you support me, if you support girls in Reçueçn, and you're going to be at our game against Dhemixia, or at any of the other IAC games, will you join me in a blackout? I'm going to wear all black to the game, and I encourage you to do the same."

"I know we love to support our team, and we love to wear our team jersey," Rébecca went on, her father nodding in agreement over her shoulder in the background of the video. "But right now, Reçueçn's girls need your support more than les licornes do. The team is headed to the next round no matter what happens tomorrow, but for girls like me, there is no next round. There is no tomorrow. If we can all wear black at the game tomorrow, we'll send a message to the FNRF and to the multiverse that Reçueçn is ready for change."

The fans saw Rébecca's post, and they responded as she'd hoped. When she arrived at the Stade National the next evening to watch the final group stage game to determine the winner of Group A, she was greeted by the sight of crowds of people, all dressed in black.

Multitudes had answered her call. As Rébecca, accompanied by her mother, made her way through the stadium entrance (still marked with the "Accés au sport pour tous!" graffiti someone had left), she was swarmed by people who recognized her and were thrilled to shake her hand, show off their black clothing, and promise her their support. The Reçuecian fans already had a sense of unity and camaraderie, but now they were united behind a cause.

Not everyone approved of what Rébecca was doing, however. A majority of the FNRF executive board had decided that it was time to lay down the law. Just as the federation had forced the players to remove their armbands during the match against Devonta, now the FNRF had issued a statement prohibiting players or fans from "carrying signs or symbols associated with political slogans or causes". Fortunately Rébecca's new plan circumvented the ban—the federation could hardly keep fans out just for wearing a particular color, especially not when so many of them were doing it together. But the security guards at the Stade National, who were FNRF employees, gave Rébecca a cold stare and kept a close eye on her.

There was at least one organization that backed Rébecca however; the équipe nationale, or ÉNRF. While the FNRF, the team's governing federation, was motivated largely by the interests of team owners and oligarchs, the ÉNRF truly represented les licornes, and the administrative staff, who loved their players, had told Gerauld Firaut that they were with him and his daughter 100%. Gerauld appreciated this—he felt sure that if they continued down the current path, a showdown with the federation was inevitable, and it was nice to know at least his direct bosses had his back.

The protest fully outshone the game against Dhemixia. Reçueçn was already guaranteed a spot in the round of sixteen, so the game was almost a dead rubber, and the most interesting thing in the stadium was the crowd of fans, all dressed in black, chanting slogans in unison. Even the match commentators found it hard to focus on the game, discussing the demonstration throughout the match. In the background of every shot, the stands were full of fans wearing black. Many had brought signs and had them confiscated by stadium security, but instead they wave black handkerchiefs, flooding the atmosphere of the stadium with the color.

Perhaps the distraction was too much. Les licornes, who had won their last ten games straight, lost to Dhemixia, a ^{filthy TSP team}pot four side against whom they'd expected more.

The final whistle blew on a Reçuecian side that had just lost 1-0, but the fans stayed in the stands, whistling and waving their handkerchiefs, enthusiasm unabated.

On the pitch, Gerauld Firaut, team captain, made his way to the center circle. There, he dramatically pulled off his jersey, displaying a black shirt underneath. He walked around, displaying the back of the shirt, on which, in large block letters, was spelled "SON PAPA LA SOUTIENT". ("Her dad supports her.")

Firaut was immediately shown a yellow card and ordered off the pitch by the referee. The FNRF announced later that evening that Firaut would be handed a fine of 100,000 guilders for "unsportsmanlike behavior". "The FNRF is responsible for the actions of its players on a multiversal stage such as the IAC, and must take steps to prevent disrespectful displays such as this that are harmful to our sport. The FNRF apologizes to the IAC Organizing Committee, and is willing to accept any ruling from the IACOC."

For his part, Firaut said he would appeal the ruling, and sue the federation if it was upheld. "IACOC policy is that removing ones shirt during a match is an immediate yellow," he said. "I accept that. But that punishment is already in place. The FNRF can't arbitrarily decide to slap me with a fine for an action for which I've already been punished an that doesn't break any further rules. The federation is acting like me taking off my shirt is some huge travesty, but beyond the one IACOC rule, it's not even an infraction. They can't fine me for something they've never said is illegal."

Rébecca watched her dad's interview on TV. Gerauld had gone in to a news studio—allegedly to talk about the game, but everyone knew the conversation would mostly be about the protests.

"I'm so proud of my girl," Gerauld said. "Look what she's done, and she's just fifteen years old! The entire protest at the match today was something she organized. She has so much ahead of her still. If she can do this, just wait until she starts getting the chances she deserves."

Gerauld started to find he was having difficulty speaking. There was a massive lump in his throat that refused to go away. "I love her so much. I'm so proud of her. I tell her that often, so I know she knows, but I want this whole nation to know. If you ask me to choose between my daughter and the FNRF, I'll choose my daughter every time."

When he got home, Gerauld had barely opened the door before Rébecca had flung her arms around his neck in a ferocious embrace.

"Je t'aime, Papa."

by **Edsmontik** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:16 am

streggvalkligges.eds
YOUR Edsmon Sports Hub

5/22/2031

EVENTS

FDVL
FDVL CHAMPION: AUSTRANVIIGE CKINQ

INTERNATIONAL
IAC23 GROUP STAGE MD5

Edsmontik 1-0 Omerica @ Stade de l’Alliance, Genève, Reçueçn
S. Fotserr (40') | None

CHANNELS

RISING TO THE TOP ALONGSIDE CHAOS IN THE STADIUM

With the Eagles' star Maartin Stuero off for a break, fans were concerned about what could happen.
However, Seu Fotserr mostly filled in Stuero's shoes, scoring a 40th minute beauty that stunned fans.
And adding on, the Eagles won with that one goal.

Other than Fotserr's goal, the first half was bland.
It was more of a game where the teams traded the ball back and forth instead of an actual competition.
Players made passes that were pointless, and no one seemed to want to attack.
However, it all changed after the Eagles began to take advantage of the slow atmosphere.

It began the 38th minute, when the Eagles began passing forward.
They had just stopped an Omerican attack, and were now beginning their move.
Vikral found Reuhans with a pass, who quickly turned to pass it farther up to Fotserr.
Fotserr tried to slip away through defensive holes, but the Omericans wouldn't let him.

So he passed to Reiovus, who passed back to him once he was open.
They kept going back and forth, involving other players too.
Eventually, they sent it out to Svaardaen, who ran up the wing and drove in.

When it looked like the forward would shoot, he didn't.
The ball was passed up into the air, and the goalkeeper, half-expecting a shot, had already dived.
And Seu Fotserr came in with a diving header.
That was all it took to hand the Eagles a lead.

The second half was almost the same as the first half in terms of blandness.
However, there was a little more energy approaching the 60th minute.
Edsmontik wanted to extend their lead, and Omerica wanted to equalize.
Both teams had a goal, and so they began to push their players.

Players came off, new players came on.
The coaches were watching every move to make sure that it was right.
The attacks became more intense, with ranged power-shots and volleys that would have caused problems.
But Elterhad der-Stoiuben of Edsmontik didn't let anything in, and neither did the Omerican keeper.

So the battle continued, intensifying each minute.
It kept going, past the 70th minute mark, past the 80th, and past the 90th.
And it ended after two minutes of stoppage time.

Edsmontik was in with 8 points, topping their group.
The fans were crazy with happiness for the team, but there was other chaos among the stands and outside.

Protesters.
We originally didn't look forward to including this, but now that it's become a problem, we must.
These protesters were all about allowing women to play in the Reçueçn leagues and nation team, but the FNRF didn't exactly want that.
However, things got out of hand when they spray-painted and vandalized the Stade National.

The Eagles know that this isn't very good, and some spoke out today about the issue.

"It's a problem indeed. I mean, be non-violent, sure, don't vandalize a stadium though." Martin Stuero told us post-Omerica. "It's not good knowing that it can be expensive to fix and clean."

"The protesting is fine, but the vandalism? Not okay." Ivikt Javarqa told ISN reporters. "It's not my decision, but the FRNF should make an announcement to clear stuff up."

Players aren't the only ones concerned with this though.
Edsmons are nervous that these protesters will attack them, as the Edsmon Fustball Federactov (EFF) is very strict on this issue as well.
Combined with streggvalkligges.eds refusing to broadcast the WFDVL, they could be targetted.

"There's a WFDVL for women, and FDVL for men. There's the Edsmon NT for men, and Edsmon WNT for women. If I'm right, then we're fine, but I'm assuming that Reçueçn does not have a women's league nor a women's national team, therefore the fans are angry." a fan told us. "I'm only concerned that if they're for co-ed teams, many will be attacked either on social media or swarmed by these protesters for not allowing co-ed teams."

"Edsmontik allowed no women on the men's team and no men on the women's. I hope they don't go after us, and that's all." another fan said. "If we do, it's on the EFF and Streggvalkligges Corporation, because they decide, not us fans and our players.

Moving back to the IAC, Edsmontik is going to be facing Sudilia in the knockouts at Stade de l’Alliance in Genève.
Stuero says that he plans to take the match off to rest, but he will be back for the semis if Edsmontik makes it.
See you all next time on ISN.

Next Lineup: GK -- LB, CB, CB, RB -- LM, CM, RM -- LCF, RCF, ST

E. der-Stoiuben -- S. Kizani, I. Javarqa, B. Norseden, J. Vikral -- L. Fruedenne, D. Ystermakt, M. Ghreksbvy -- M. Svaardaen, S. Fotserr, V. Bervaign

by **Juvencus** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 11:21 am

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

ESTABLISHING DOMINANCE AMONGST THE SONNELIANS - JUVENCUS KEEPS 2 CLEAN SHEETS IN A ROW

La squadra has been doing what it does best for the entirety of the group stages post-Adab matchday and that is complete and utter dominance against all competition that stood in its path. The win against Sajnur has opened the team's pathway and increased its confidence heading into the games against Beefsteak City as well as bitter Revoda Sea rivals in Drawkland and in a Juven fashion they rose above all occasion to deliver on two important wins and top group F in the process. The wins however, came in radically different playstyles and fashion each game.

VS Beefsteak City: Gli attaccanti entered the pitch against Beefsteak City with an air of confidence from the victory against Sajnur. Such confidence was translated as a flow of play that very much benefited la squadra and all its endeavors on the pitch, moving the ball all around the field with ease(something to do with Juven players being professionals against literal office workers). Fortuno Ajello would bring the fortunes towards gli attaccanti's favor early on, with a strike just outside the box hitting the crossbar before being nailed in, there would be no celebrations following that as the goalkeeper was a 62-year old man and two easy tap-in goals by Ceferino Audiol would lock the game from the first half as la squadra would play with its prey afterwards, giving the ball away to the Beefsteak players and in a twist of irony letting the play all around the pitch, only having to make saves when they would get close to the box. Such disrespect did not go unnoticed by the 2 fans of Beefsteak City's team present on the pitch, who showed their disdain in a way only they could.

Gaetan left no comments following the match, as it was clear that office workers are not meant to go toe to toe with actual professional footballers who are getting paid in the hundreds of thousands and even millions to perform week in and week out. Explicity stating that "We showed mercy to them by virtue of them being Sonnelians."

VS Drawkland: The pompous attitude of the previous game quickly turned into vigilance when facing Drawkland. The Drawkians, who until recently had been Sonnel's main team in football as well as the team that had Juvencus' number in most encounters prior to the last few cycles, always remain a side to be weary of in the eyes of the Juven. Safer play ensued on the pitch, as crosses were not to be played around against the aerially superior Drawkians, despite it being the Juven's strong suit. Instead, fast passing and cutting inwards would be the play, making it hard for the Corps' defence to react. A perfect Joao Peres run followed by an accurate through-ball to Ceferino Audiol would see the latter with his back on goal, a swift twist and flick of the ball would be enough to defeat McKenna Reed and give Juvencus the advantadge, an advantadge which gli attaccanti would keep until half time. Being 1-0 up, the defensive lineup loosened up for the first few minutes of the second half, so much so that Cam Cross would send the ball on the top left side, only for Imeri to stop it right on the line. The vigilant attitude returned and towards the end of the match, Joao Peres would bury the ball on the left side of McKenna Reed's goal, rendering her unable to react and giving Juvencus a much-needed victory to top the group over the Sonnelian rivals.

A general content attitude ensued by both Gaetan and the players, expressing pleasure by the way this match was handled against such an important foe and in a fashion that would see la squadra topping the group. Gaetan also stated that "Focus is now on the knockouts and towards finishing the job that begun all the way back to the start of the qualifiers."

With Seeberg being la squadra's round of 16 opponents, there are two goals to achieve. Firstly, finish the task at hand, which is to defeat good competition in Seeberg. Lastly, if the first goal is achieved, cruising past the quarter-finals curse that has afflicted la squadra the last few cycles, as winning trophies has always been the end objective of Gaetan and his ambitions of the team.

by **Seeberg** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 2:34 pm

No one cared less about The Horkenheimers’ historical progression into a IAC round-of-16 than visiting doctoral student Hedvig Bergson. She was really only interested in two things. One: fuming over her pet peeve annoyance about the native Seebergian gibberish-creole and their complete disregard for proper punctuation. Two: her doctoral work at the renowned Institute für Sozialforschung concerning nothing less than the error of human life and completing her treatise on the fundamental conditions for human existence. It goes without saying that she had no time for such trivial matters as football and the IAC.

Hedvig had been struggling professionally for quite some time. Deep down she «knew» and «felt» that life and humanity as such was a meaningless endeavor and that dispersing the realization of this insight would be beneficial for all. Where she struggled was finding a way of convincingly frame what she already knew, so that others could relinquish their pointless quest for any meaning deeper than the cold fact that life was only death’s waiting room.

She had tried linguistics, all manners of anthropology, ancient history, modern history, contemporary history, civil and criminal law, jurisprudence, mathematics, physics, calligraphy, politology, sociology, landscape architecture, choreography, architectural analysis, psychology, ventriloquism, puppetry, choral conducting, creative writing, literary criticism, ethnochoreology and even homeopathy. She had skipped philosophy altogether; it is a silly enterprise, but nowhere in the vast halls of academia had she found a framework suited for her task and it was actually just a coincidence that she ended up using basic biology as her tool of choice.

She happened upon a book by noted Seebergian biologist Alfredo Pannacotta about the biological conditions for all life and decided that was a decent place to start because it quickly became apparent to her that herein rested the key to everything. She had traveled to Seeberg and the Institute to finish her work in the valleys where Pannacotta had authored his work. And in many ways it had been beneficial and illuminating for her, because the Seebergians and their daily trifles had helped her gain a keener understanding about the tragedy of it all. Humans, silly creatures, are fundamentally flawed because they possess a consciousness seriously overdeveloped compared to what the limitations of our biological conditions can actually offer. Our hyped-up cognition has us prancing around demanding some sort of metaphysical justification for things like life and death and love when reality as such actually can’t offer anything of that kind. We have developed needs that can’t be satisfied, and what we usually think about as our special gift that separates us from the animals is really not a feature but a bug. We’re doomed to be unsatisfied because satisfaction is an impossibility.

So it’s nothing strange about everything being very tragic, because that’s all there is. Which is very tragic.

by **Valentine Z** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 3:06 pm

Part 1 – A Full-on Total Victory.

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: I would say that I was holding my breath, but that is actually not something I do often times, haha! But you know the expression, yes? Well, here it is! I didn’t have to do that anymore and in fact, I was quite ecstatic that we were not only able to get to the next part of the stage, but we did it with such a style as well! 4 out of 4 wins? Now THAT is what I am talking about! Hmph, if only we got that sort of luck for the World Cup or Cup of Harmony but I’m not complaining, of course! Hmm, where was I? Oh yes, the match! It was a great one, all of the players doing their part and scoring the goals left, right, and center! In fact, looking at the scores across all of the teams, we were the second best in terms of GF, Goals For as they call it, I think! One of the two teams that won all the four games as well. With that, let us go to the next stage of the game. In particular, the knockoff rounds where we will be playing against our organizers – Reçueçn!

Naturally, I am also aware of the happenings! It’s just that for the Valentians, we do not really want to meddle too much with the local politics, if one can call it that! Sure, it’s not so much the politics this time, more of the human rights. From what I can ascertain from all that is happening, it seems like there was a protest that happened as a result of the women (and non-binary) leagues being undervalued and underappreciated. It is not so much because of the fact that they could not play at all; it was more about them being undervalued and being thrust into their own places. There is no glory outside of Ligue Nationale de Reçueçn de Football (LNRF). I absolutely get that, and in my mind and in our hearts, I along with the rest of the Valentians support the protests! As for whether or not we should do it openly, that I am uncertain of. Once again, it is not just because of the fact that they are a host nation to us. As I said, we often try not to get involved in it. Still, for such injustice, I suppose we CAN get involved! As for how, I know just the thing, and the perfect opportunity is about to happen in the form of a perfect match-up coming!

Valentine Z vs Reçueçn! Winning this match can prove that the a team consisting of a mix of men and women can win over the Reçuecian team consisting of 11 men. They have all the prowess that we need to be careful about, of course. You got the counter-attacker one, the brilliant one, the collaborator, the level-headed one… and more importantly, an Italian. As a result of all of this, it is going to be not as easy and truth be told, I do not want this to be an one whereby we are curbstomping one another. On the contrary, I would simply like this to be a match whereby we are able to have a good one and challenge each other – and then there it is, the result that if we win, that we’ll be able to show it to them that women can do it alongside the men. I did think of switching up to all-women – we got the reserves, after all. However, I decide not to go for it, lest our potential defeat will make it seem like the women team got defeated by the men team. Maybe I should have done it a little earlier if I knew about it, but ah well, that’s okay! Anyway, next get to the next part of this IAC and we will see how this will go for us… and for the Reçuecians!

by **Dhemixia** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:37 pm

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Columbus Dominion(Est.1873)

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Dhemixians advance past group stage following stunning upset of the hosts

Do you ever just have a moment, look around, take it all in, and purely wonder how you got there?

For Dhemixia's populace and the national team as a whole, this underdog run the Serpents have been putting together has really made them question how they're where they are. In their second cycle of international competition, Dhemixia has not only advanced out of the group stage for the first time ever, but also won the group somehow.

For all intents and purposes, it was over on MD5. Indusse playing Devonta on the final MD was supposed to be the win that got them into second, and pushed Dhemixia into third. Indusse did follow up on this, winning 3-0 as protests rocked the tournament. Dhemixia, however, did not play their part. They were supposed to just lay down and die against Reçueçn, let in maybe 4-5 goals to the pot 1 side, and maybe if they're lucky, score one or something. What unfolded next absolutely deflated Indussean supporters, as they were forced to watch the inferior pacifican side let up a beauty in the 56th, and just never regain control. Was Dhemixia the better squad that day? No. Did protesting fans essentially create a reverse home-field advantage? Mayhaps. If there's one takeaway from this game, it would be that we can finally see which Pacific is the better one (at least at football). It's The South Pacific, it's always been The South Pacific, and it will continue to be The South Pacific forever.

Revisiting Bolton's majestic game-winner in the 56th minute, it really is a thing of beauty for it to clinch advancement for the Serpents. To set the scene, it's a counterattack. Following an unsuccessful corner kick set piece attempt, the Dhemixians want to rapidly break out of their defensive zone, trying to catch Reçueçn on their heels. Wesley Williamson would find Grant Clarke along the side, of whom would locate Marvin Bolton with a wide open header opportunity inside the box. He chips the ball, it hits Bolton's chest, where he touches it to his right foot, and the rest is history. 1-0 Dhemixia, game over.

With a team composition like this, I think they've got their ambitions set on something further than merely a round of 16 appearance. As good news for them, Doug McMahon isn't exactly the kind of man to sit down, not coach, and let his team die in the Ro16. Some want to get to the Quarterfinals, some want to get to the Final Four, but the most important of all, they'd all want to be lifting the IAC 23 trophy that the Dhemixians will almost definitely bring home.

Unfortunately for the final hopes, it will be a tough road through. The most important of which, the first game, is not doing them any favors either. Having to stare down the barrel of +4 GD and very offensively-minded Aphrilia in the round of 16 alone is a death sentence, but who knows what'll happen a second time. Much like Dhemixia, the top two strikers, Nathaniel Rosberg and Ines Forrestal, will define how the game is played, and be a real threat if given enough room. The upsides to this are that we know how to defend against this, but the downsides are that any other team could know as well. Really, these teams were built very similarly, it's just going to come down to who's luckier. We'll have to find out and see.

____███ - - - - - - ███

______Reçueçn__0 - 1_'_Dhemixia

___'____'________''"| Bolton 56'
___''''____________''|

MotM: DHE ST Marvin Bolton

Schedule

~~MD1: @ Indusse, Stade National~~ L 2-3 (5th)
~~MD2: vs. Vaishnavaria, Stade National~~ W 4-1 (1st)
~~MD3: @ United States of Devonta, Stade National~~ W 2-0 (1st)
~~MD4: Bye~~ W 1093-0 (2nd)
~~MD5: vs. Reçueçn, Stade National~~ W 1-0 (1st)

Ro16: vs. Aphrilia, Stade National

by **Aphrilia** » Thu Mar 06, 2025 11:29 pm

They made it. Barely, but The Anchors bloody did it.

Calgasia proved to be a tricky opponent for Aphrilia, but the new tactics that the team came up with were able to shut them down. Ines Forrestal and, surprisingly, Ardan McKernell snagged the winning goals for the team. Forrestal scored on the 33rd minute with her signature "going wide before cutting inside" trick as she always does. It's the one trick she knows, but it's one she does best. You know it will come from her, but sometimes you just can't stop it.

McKernell's goal meanwhile was... Odd to say the least. 70th minute, Aphrilia have a free kick near Calgasia's penalty box. Nathaniel Rosberg takes it but was blocked by the wall. Ball bounces in McKernell's direction, and he shot it with the might of a billion elephants (Does that make sense?). Fortunately for Aphrilia and unfortunately for Calgasia, one of the Calgasian defenders blocked the ball and it was deflected into the Die Adler net. This secured Aphrilia's much needed win to take second place in Group B to advance into the knockouts. For everyone, it was a relief that Aphrilia is at least able to enter the knockouts, as it would have been even more embarrassing if they didn't.

After the end of the match, Leonardo Bianchi took the team for a treat. This wasn't the absolute most important match that Aphrilia has won, but it was an important match in a sense that not only have they seemed to found the basis for their new tactics, it has also made (Hopefully) quite the good impression on the followers of The Anchors. Proof that he can bring this team back up to the level they were once playing at. "When you are down, the only way to go is up. And I will help you get back." Bianchi told the team during the simple feast.

But everyone knew, you will always know. The knockouts never get any easier.

Dhemixia was to be Aphrilia's Round of 16 opponent, after having topped Group A in an incredibly tight battle against tournament hosts Recuecn. For The Anchors, the game plan is all about giving Forrestal and Rosberg enough room to operate without needing to deal with too much pressure from the Dhemixian defense. As for the team's still developing tactics, there may need to be further changes to make sure that it can accommodate as many different teams as possible. But most of them would count as micro-changes, which aren't too necessary for the time being. The Anchors definitely have what it takes to make it through to the Quarterfinals.

If the team wins, we go further and have more footage to review. And if we lose, well, there's definitely enough time to experiment until the next WCQ.

by **Crpostran** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 1:35 am

by **Recuecn** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 2:33 am

Round of 16

Dhemixia 1–3 Aphrilia
Stade National, Reçueçn

Valentine Z 3–0 Reçueçn*
Hôtel Chapelle-Pré, Reçueçn

Crpostran 1–0 Natkr
Siegstadion, Zimmerich

HUElavia 1–0 The Elder Lands
Champ de Sport, Renwyll

Visayas Islands 1–4 Drawkland
Stade de la Reformation, Genève

Juvencus 2–1 Seeberg
Stade Carl III, Reçueçn

Ile de Richelieu 3–0 Chobotan
Arena der Alpen, Heldingen

Edsmontik 2–2 Sudilia (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Stade de l’Alliance, Genève

*Game scorinated by South Newlandia

Quarterfinal Matchups

Aphrilia vs Valentine Z
Champ de Sport, Renwyll

Crpostran vs HUElavia
Stade de l’Alliance, Genève

Drawkland vs Juvencus
Arena der Alpen, Heldingen

Ile de Richelieu vs Edsmontik
Hôtel Chapelle-Pré, Reçueçn

by **Visayas Islands** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 4:55 am

A TEARFUL EXIT AFTER SOME MIRACULOUS OUTCOMES
by Lorenzo Miguel Entrata
Genève, Reçueçn

Before the game started, the whole Visayas Islands were into their respective televisions and watch as the Bulls that could possibly qualify against the more powerful team, Drawkland. In the first game, the Visayans held on against the Drawklandians. But when the Drawklandian offense came, Zaldarriaga and Robles now getting slotted by these Drawklandian attackers, and scored a goal for Drawkland. The Drawklandian defense went on to dominate the whole game as the Drawklandians score two more goals. Meanwhile in the second half, the Visayans finally found a way against the powerful Drawklandians when Banaag is passing through the substitute Arnaiz and passes on to Juanfran Artigue to score the only Visayan goal of the game. But the Drawklandians responded with a free kick goal of theirs. And it was over for the Bulls as they're going out of IAC 23. "I wanna say a big thank you to all of our countrymen who supported us through the end.", says Ayala. And now, the team is focusing on to qualify for the 99th World Cup. And let's all pray for the Bulls' success.

by **HUElavia** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 6:38 am

HUElavia 1–0 The Elder Lands
(Arruda 88')
Champ de Sport, Renwyll, Recuecn

ARRUDA ARRIVES FOR THE GLORY!

Arruda scores his first mejor goal in a late winner to send HUElavia past The Elder Lands to the Quarter-Finals!

After the miraculous survival and advance past Group D, HUElavia returned to the fray with the Round-of-16, a round that is expected at bare minimum for the team to be in. Still playing at Champ Dr Sport in Renwyll, Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos were seeking to return to the Quarter-Finals, but they had to take on Group C runner-up The Elder Lands. With Narita and Girard starting with the A-Team, the team was in full force with a sold out crowd present, where the HUElavians had just enough advantage with the crowd.

The match was an ebb-and-flow series of attacks and counter attacks from the get go. Both teams were very offensive minded, and would be taking precise shots to try to get a goal in. HUElavia's best shot came in the 23rd minute, when a run by Milano on the side being covered by Tarvos to send a low ball unto the box, where Mantovani came to the other side past Numbles and one-on-one against Bellwether, only to sky the ball over for a goal kick. The Elder Lands had their best shot in the 37th minute, when Bodua sent a pass past Brandt and to The Crowned Bull, who went one-on-one against Ancel to give a shot and Ancel would block it sprawled out on the ground to then have Miyamoto clear the ball to safety. At the half, it was a goalless encounter but both teams were hungry for the goals.

The second half was more of the same, with shots being taken and blocks from the backline would stop things getting too dangerous. Time ticked on and on, and the anxiety of extra time was beginning to fall upon the stadium. While there could be an additional 30 minutes, it's 30 minutes of further exhaustion, and maybe penalties that was ideal to avoid. Eventually in the 80th minute, Coach Casillas would send on Arruda and Go for Narita and Kim respectively, giving some fresh legs into the match. HUElavia began to pressure more and more, now wanting to impose themselves and really kill off the match as quick of they can while The Elder Lands was being pushed more and more into their box. Then, in the 88th minute, Lobo would dispossess Comgal (in for Swindle) and send a long pass to Go, who began to run to the side on a counter attack. Adun (in for Numbles) would close in on her, before she sent a low cross into the box, only for Arruda to get past Yoicks and give a one-time shot past Bellwether into the goal, making it 1-0. The HUElavian crowd erupted in joy and passion to make the stadium rumble while Arruda was mobbed by his teammates and the bench as Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos were with another classic late winner once more. Still, Coach Casillas barked orders to have the team keep calm and stay focused for the remaining minutes. The Elder Lands tried to attack more and more, but HUElavia would fall back and block for their dear lives, making sure to make it easy for Ancel, including bringing on Pavlona, Llopis and Pazarella on for Schmidt, Mantovani and Milano to bank on defending these few minutes. Once the referee blew their whistle, the bench ran onto the field while the HUElavisn players celebrated in joy, followed by giving hugs and handshakes to The Elder Land players, giving their comisserations. Once more, HUElavia was back to the Last 8 of the IAC.

In the other Round-of-16 match that played that day, Crpostran eliminated Natkr 1-0 themselves to set up a very tantalizing match of Crpostran-HUElavia for the evening match in the Quarter-Finals. In a match that should be at least a Semi-Final, with the energy of an IAC Final, this is one that can be historic. Coach Casillas spoke post match saying "We'regrateful for the performance and advance today, this team played their hearts out and won it rightfully so. We got a lot to study and practice no, given we have Crpostran next. They've had a great rise recently and they are no easy opponent to take on. Still, we intend to play them with respect and with our skill and energy. We hope to count on our fans making noise and cheering us on to give it our all for the advance. We hope to get another two matches to enjoy in Recuecn." Fans are coming more and more in droves, as they've taken up space at watch parties in Recuecn and have celebrated with the locals while some fans have taken sympathy to the protests and participated peacefully themselves for the integration of co-ed teams in the country. There is rumors thar some HUElavian clubs would be interested in purchasing female players from Recuecn to give them experience playing and working with co-ed teams until the situation changes back here. Nonetheless, it's another Quarter-Finals upon us and with a real strong opponent this time. Here's to hoping for the advance to the Final Four once more.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

by **Ile de Richelieu** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 7:23 am

Île de Richelieu advances to the quarterfinals

Heldingen, Reçueçn - As the group G winner, Île de Richelieu played in the round of 16 against Chobotan, who finished 2nd in group H. The Bears easily beat Chobotan 3-0. Ile de Richelieu attacked at the 9th minute when Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl made a cross to Knut Olav Aasgaard who kicked it right into the net. The Bears increased their lead at the 13th minute when Xavier Maisonneuve-Tranchemontagne kicked a corner kick in the penalty area, Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois jumps and heads the ball past the goalkeeper. Ragnhild Austad had the ball at the 85th minute and she headed it to Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl who kicks the ball and it's a goal. The final score was 3-0 Île de Richelieu.

Île de Richelieu advances to the quarterfinals and will play against Edsmontik, a team who finished in 4th place in World Cup 98. Carolanne Lacouture will still be in the starting XI, replacing an injured Hjalmar Boberg. Believe it or not, but Reçueçn doesn't have a women team and they aren't allowed to play on their national team, which is strictly for men. There's a lot of protests in this nation going on, led by Rébecca Firaut, daughter of Gerauld Firaut, the #1 goalkeeper on the team. So far, Île de Richelieu only played in Heldingen and we didn't see much of the protests but our next match is at Hôtel Chapelle-Pré in Reçueçn, so bigger protests are expected with Rébecca Firaut herself probably attending the game.

GAME SUMMARY

9th     GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Knut Olav Aasgaard assisted by Asbjørn Lillegard-Omdahl
13th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Cassandra Bellerose-Desbois (corner kick)
85th    GOAL ÎLE DE RICHELIEU     Ulfhild Lillegard-Omdahl assisted by Ragnhild Austad

Knut Knutsen

by **Juvencus** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 3:54 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

ONLY TEN PLAYERS? NO PROBLEM!

Seeberg's obstacle proved to be much more difficult than initially anticipated. The Horkenheimers, being a defensively sound team entered the game expecting la squadra to attack, hoping to absorb any and all offensives before hitting on the counter. La squadra's anticipation was a game of possessional dominance, trying to find gaps through the compact defensive line of the Seeberg team. The events of the game would point towards a completely different fortune. Horkenheimer pressure was prevalent through the whole game and la squadra barely scraped through with the win.

The first half started off as expected, gli attaccanti started off its engines, playing a fast-paced game and it looked as if there would be an early ending. A quick Joaquim Jorba strike would find la squadra in front, with a touch of nuovoviola magic altogether as it was courtesy of a Fortuno Ajello through-ball. Celebrations would stop immediately, as a harsh tackle from Quarto would see him red-carded and Seeberg earning a much-needed penalty, which would be converted by Tom Selig. The shock of the equaliser and the much-elevated confidence of the Horkenheimers saw the tides of the game change completely. With one-sided possession on the part of Seeberg and constant pressure to change the fate of the game saw la squadra desperately trying to defend itself from any and all attacks. Caicedo Marroqui saw himself on a good day, bringing his A-game and proceeding to do several important tackles and clearances throughout the first half, keeping Imeri's goal in tact.

According to the words of Raul Viejo, "the toughest pep talk out of any manager to have walked a sports locker room" ensued. With la squadra remaining focused on its game and finally trying to push on the counter attack, using the superior speed of its wingers. La squadra would come close with a rocket from Joao Peres being saved by Kluge, as well as Ceferino Audiol's chip hitting the crossbar. Such counters would freeze the momentum of Seeberg and gli attaccanti would see themselves trying to progress forward the more the match was nearing its finish. With no winner in sight and the extra time looming, a clearance by Ignacio Lopes would find Ceferino Audiol in a beneficial position, the Serrapince striker would turn around and head towards the goal, where with an incredible strike would nail the ball on the right side of Kluge's goal, giving la squadre the advantadge again before falling back to hold the score until the end of the match.

A much-needed victory and perhaps the heist of the century was witnessed in Stade Carl III, but Juvencus' players did their first job and are heading on towards their next objective. The quarter-finals curse has been plaguing the team's performances since the last independents cup, as well as the world cup and it becomes even more potent considering la squadra is meeting Drawkland in yet another Revoda Sea game. Last time the two teams met in this stage of the competition, the Drawkians dismantled gli attaccanti with an insane 6-2 scoreline. Considering the situation the team is seeing itself in, the destruction of even more boundaries is at hand and it is the perfect opportunity to go onwards a massive push to the final and liftinfg the Independents Cup trophy for the second time.

by **The Elder Lands** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 4:40 pm

One hour* after The Elder Lands' defeat to Huelavia
*Corresponding this time quite precisely to an hour as measured by mortals, since this hour took place in the mortal realm and was, in fact, measured by mortals

The mood was subudued, but also confused, disbelieving even. They had all been so certain of themselves. They had known that what they were doing was right, that they had made the right choices and that everything would be all right. Prophecy was on their side, and mortal considerations like rank or footballing experience could count for little in the face of destiny. Rather than retreat to a locker room, as most teams would be expected after the match, the Fey had settled into a loose group, vaguely circular, out on the field of the now vacant Champ de Sport.

"It can't really be over, can it? We've still won more matches than we lost," Swindle protested. Unhappily, she hadn't had the opportunity to play in the match. "It just doesn't make any sense."

Across the ring from where Swindle flitted back and forth between several of the team's gnomes, Tarvos worked his hands in the turf, thickly corded muscles standing out on his arms as he flexed thick, powerful fingers. "I will strike down that impudent mortal, that Arruda, who dared to shame me so. He shall taste the full draught of my fury."

"We'll find someone to reason with. There'll be some way to sort this thing, surely," Yoicks insisted, speaking to Jareth and Hallar as the former sat, staring blanking at the ground in front of him, the latter laying a consoling hand on his shoulder.

No. The Crowned Bull stood, moving to the center of the circle. Do not despair, Jareth the Wanderer. Let your rage be quenched, dear Tavros, still your hearts, all. His voice, though it carried easily across the circle, was low and gentle. Our steps have not gone awry. Thus always was this journey to end.

A silence fell over the fey circle, heads rising to regard the Eldest as he stood, turning slowly in place to meet the gaze of each member of the team in turn. To taste victory with you would have been sweet indeed, but it was never our errand to save our home by winning some silver trinket. I merely wished to take this journey with you all. He paused for a breath, Before the end.

Gnomes, eladrin, archfey alike stared in incomprehension. Minds that had been fixated on a championship as the object of their quest to cure the ailment afflicting their home struggled to catch up with the Crowned Bull's words. Perhaps because of their closeness, perhaps because anger and desire for action had prepared him to think of new actions, Tavros was the first to perceive the Eldest's meaning. His reaction was predictable.

"No! Black Bull, My Lord, you cannot!" Tavros sprang up to his feet, taking one step forward, a hand outstretched as if to ward off onrushing fate.

Dear Tavros, my bold boar, come here. Let me look at you, one last time. He reached out a hand toward Tavros, who took halting steps forward until he stood before the Crowned Bull, eyes straight ahead and unfocused, jaw set and clenched. To give my very all, the Allknower spoke, Tavros, and true were her words. I knew their foreboding when first you spoke them to me. The Crowned Bull reached down with one hand to cup Tavros's jaw and cheek, tipping his head upward so the two were eye to eye. Tavros's were shone with tears. My friend, my love, my Tavros. He leaned down, letting their lips meet in a long kiss. You need not weep for me, Tavros, for I come not willingly, but joyfully. If with my life I can vanquish this great foe, then I spend it gladly, and I do not weep at my end, for you and all those that I love will carry on, and you will tell my stories to those who will follow you in turn.

"But, My Lord you cannot. Not like this, in defeat, in this strange place." Not only Tavros, but several others of the fey were openly weeping by now. The Crowned Bull had in so many ways become the team's leader and talisman, commanding respect but also giving it freely.

I am not vanquished, but the vanquisher. I return to myself to the land, by my own strength and love I strengthen the land and ensure that all I love shall endure against the Silence that would destroy us all. With a slight movement, there was a knife in the Crowned Bull's hand. It was a simple implement, chipped flint with a handle tightly wrapped in hemp cord. He pressed it into Tavros's hand, wrapping both of his own around it. Now at the last, I give to you, my friends, my true name, which is Cennétig. And then the tall, horned man no longer stood before them, but instead a great black bull with long shaggy hair and wickedly pointed horns.

Tavros stared down at the knife in his hand, slowly lifting it up before his eyes, then turn his gaze to the bull in front of him.

Righteous the act to kill, my Tavros.

"If it be your will," Tavros whispered.

The act took little time. There was a rush of blood over Tavros's hands, and after a moment the Black Bull's legs buckled. As he settled down, the strength flowing out of him, the team gathered around, placing their hands on his great flanks until the rise and fall of his breath stilled. A moment passed, then two, and they found that they stood in a forest clearing around an earthen mound surrounded by tiny mushrooms and clover blooms. It was night, but the moon shone brightly down on them from over the treetops. The chirping of crickets and the drone of cicadas filled the air, and somewhere back among the trees, an owl called out. From the mount in the clearing burst forth a stream of clear, fresh water that burbled and babbled over rocks and roots as it wound its wild way into the forest.

by **Edsmontik** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 6:05 pm

streggvalkligges.eds
YOUR Edsmon Sports Hub

5/25/2031

EVENTS

FDVL
FDVL CHAMPION: AUSTRANVIIGE CKINQ

INTERNATIONAL
IAC23 Ro16

Edsmontik 2-2 Sudilia (2-2 AET) (4-3 pen.) @ Stade de l’Alliance, Genève, Reçueçn
L. Fruedenne (27'), S. Fotserr (76') | D. Bourne (44'), R. Russell (90+1')
(EDS) M. Stuero - Goal
(SUD) E. Bélair - Goal
(EDS) M. Rehcikt - Miss
(SUD) D. Bourne - Goal
(EDS) M. Ghreksbvy - Goal
(SUD) R. Russell - Miss
(EDS) V. Bervaign - Goal
(SUD) K. Laviolette - Miss
(EDS) L. Fruedenne - Miss
(SUD) M. Laprise - Goal
(EDS) I. Javarqa - Goal
(SUD) O. Hudson - Miss

CHANNELS

POST-SHOOTOUT

The Edsmon Eagles barely scraped their way through into the Round of 16 at the 23rd IAC.
Facing Sudilia, they hoped for a quick win to seal their spot into the Quarterfinals.
However, it wasn't that easy.

The first half was a head-to-head match up.
Edsmontik was the first to score with Lajiflak Fruedenne landing a freekick in the 27th minute.
Following this, the Sudilians fought back, scoring one through Bourne.

In the second half, things were looking for the Eagles.
Seu Fotserr scored a low-driven shot that barely went in just before he was substituted off for Stuero.
And with that, the Edsmons were up 2-1.
It didn't look like Sudilia would make a comeback, but approaching the final minutes, it was clear that they were going to.

The ball was fed Bourne, who got the ball to Russell.
All it took, was one slip from der-Stoiuben to concede.
So as the final whistle blew, it was 2-2.

Extra time followed, with both halves showing strong plays from both teams.
But it wasn't enough to settle the game.

The game went from an easy looking win for the Eagles, to a potential upset and nightmare.
Especially now, they didn't want to end the IAC this early.
To do that, they would have to score everything.
Or else.

As each ball was fired, the fans shook with anxiety and excitement.
Hearts dropped when the ball was saved or rocketed into the air.
The tension was building up.
Both teams knew that it took one moment to advance.

After the main five rounds of shots, it was tied 3-3.
Edsmontik's former captain, Ivikt Javarqa, would have one chance to prove himself.
He had been playing okay, but he wasn't as much of a star as the other Eagles.
If he missed, the entire game could be over in the Sudilian shot.
If he scored, it would be over as a win instead.
So he fired it.

4-3 was the scoreline after Javarqa.
If der-Stoiuben made the save, he could finish the intense shootout.
When Hudson fired, he dived, pushing all of his power to reach out.
And the ball landed into his hands.

Edsmontik was into the Quarterfinals.
Ile de Richelieu would be up next.

Next Lineup: GK -- LB, CB, CB, RB -- LM, CM, RM -- LCF, RCF, ST

S. Lankiv -- S. Kizani, L. Shouzvenkreden, J. Travdt, V. Jervanois -- K. Wejikaj, D. Ystermakt, M. Ghreksbvy -- M. Svaardaen, M. Stuero, V. Bervaign

by **Valentine Z** » Fri Mar 07, 2025 7:42 pm

Part 2 – Surprising turn of events that even the AI could not predict (well, we could, but Clarissa didn’t).

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: As I have said before, here are the Valentian Kittens going up against the Reçuecian National Football Team – L'Équipe Nationale de Reçueçn de Football as it is called… fancy! – is of any indication, it is that we will be facing quite a defensive team. We can do it, we thought to ourselves. We have planned the usual strategies and what we do best – kick them into the goalposts! That’s what Valentians can only do because yeah, we can’t play defensively. The team is ready, we are going to get that victory and move onto the next bracket. I sat down at the coach’s bench, watching the starting 11 go onto the field much to the adoring crowd and cheers. We shook hands with the Reçuecians, noticing that they have the black armbands. Must be due to the protest, which is not surprising and hey, we are getting involved in this indirectly as well! Still, maybe that could be looked into later, so for now – let us just enjoy the match and I hope that-

Just as the whistle blew, something quite… extraordinary happened! ALL of the players, instead of fighting for the football (and making sure that the referee didn’t get injured in the process, hehe), walked away from the pitch! Yes, this is the very first time that has happened to us – it has not happened in World Cup, Cup of Harmony, IAC, any other football events that we have went to. In other words, once again, first time to us. I was a little worried at first because I thought we might be indirectly involved. Maybe our Kitten football players were posting on various social networks? No, they have been mum for the entirety of the season and they also just noticed this protest and the like a few days ago. Much confusion was in place during the “match” right now – a lot of cheers, some jeers, probably all in support of the protests and the like. “Wait,” I heard Holly cry out to one of the players, “I appreciate all of the protest but what about you guys? You will be knocked out.” I could not make out what the other player was saying, but I heard something along the line of it being a protest against FNRF (confirming my theory!) and that they planned this ahead in the first place. So… that might mean we are going to automatically move to the next bracket. That is the rule, yes. At the same time, however, I feel awful about it. It’s one thing to be able to win with such an extraordinary amount of power and goals that were scored against the opponent. However, this one? I mean… they DID protest voluntarily and we were not involved. I guess that is it then. I do not believe that this is anticlimactic. If anything, this is, well, an unusual turn of events and we are going to write this in our history books for years to come. At the same time, we are definitely going to support them with these protests, it’s time for us to be involved.

After all, Valentine Z believes in equality too, to an extent (see: Paradox of Tolerance). Overall, we did pretty great in this field! And it’s not just because that they forfeited (some might unfortunately think that way… ah wells!). No, we will still support them even if they played this game and we got beat. As the thoughts processed in my mind, I will plan this accordingly with the Valentians while, well, we wait for this to blow over. This will be quite interesting!

[OOC: My thanks to Reçueçn for approaching me with this idea. It’s definitely quite an interesting twist and I do love writing it. I do apologise for the short length!]

by **Drawkland** » Sat Mar 08, 2025 12:08 am

Three Players
While Drawkland doesn't entirely eschew their first team for the Independents Cup, the Kick Corps manager typically takes the lower-stakes tournament as an opportunity to try out some younger prospects or has-been veterans on the way out. Despite Diana Levitt being in her first tournament at the helm for the Corps, she stuck with the typical modern formula. She featured heavy lineup rotation between games and plenty of subs, trying to feel out the roster and find the best combinations. Levitt was also trialing a 3-4-3 formation, a departure from the classic Drawkian 3-3-4.

The biggest story of this Cup, besides all the pressure surrounding the new manager, were the three new rookies joining the Kick Corps for the first time. Jane M. Thompson, Toni Dillan, and Joan Viola are three players making big splashes in the DLK despite their young age. Interestingly, all three came from Norderius High School in Drawk City, though they aren't all the same age, they were on the same roster together for a few years. They weren't heralded as hot prospects coming out of high school, so all three ended up going through the DOCA college system, where they all independently bloomed. Ever since they reached the professional tier, they've all been very impressive. That's not including Toni Dillan, who was only just now drafted by Outbox League side Jaffro Storm. Dillan had inarguably the best collegiate career, winning the DOCA MVP award for soccer in her senior season with Metropolon City College.

Jane Michelle Thompson
Position: Centerback / Age: 28
Domestic Squad: Hessport Pioneers [DLK]
Appearance: Short-ish black hair, often worn with a headband
Jane Michelle Thompson, simply put, is a defender with great instincts. Despite being the oldest and some say least skilled of this trio, she's still a fearsome force on the backline. She has excellent tackle timing and technique, as well as great pass anticipation to cut off offensive plays before they happen. So often, opposing teams are frustrated by Jane's penchant to be in the perfect spot at the perfect time. She shuts down counterattacks quite effectively, and is even pretty good at booting corner kicks. Most impressively? She's fearless against even the best forwards in the game. She doesn't back down from a challenge, and that just gives her more opportunities to show her greatness. Since being drafted, she's been referred to as "Jane M. Thompson," on account of a rather notable Drawkian soccer player by the name Jane Thompson from over half a century ago. The late Jane Thompson was a Hall of Famer and widely known, so the current Jane started using her middle initial to help set herself apart.

Antonia "Toni" Dillan
Position: Center Midfielder, Attacking Midfielder / Age: 25
Domestic Squad: Jaffro Storm [TOL]
Appearance: Black hair worn in a tight bun, darker skin
Undoubtedly the most hyped prospect of the trio, Toni Dillan is a true box-to-box midfielder. Despite being known for her scoring and playmaking prowess, most scouts agree that her defensive skills are actually the better part of her game. With tireless energy and above-average speed, she makes plays on box ends. Her defensive precision in both positioning and tackling make her an absolute nuisance for opponents, seeing plays as they develop and mucking them up beautifully. Her precision on offense is also impressive, simply excellent at passing and crossing to teammates but also having some dribbling and shot selection skills that make opposing defenses sweat. If there's one thing she needs to work on, it's shot finishing, but even that is graded as above average. Thanks to some assorted chaos in the draft between DLK and TOL squads, the Jaffro Storm lucked out in Toni landing in their laps. And on a "star"-studded team like the Kick Corps, her playmaking abilities may be fully realized.

Joan Viola
Position: Midfielder / Age: 27
Domestic Squad: Kilnelm Crusaders
Appearance: Dirty blonde hair worn in a ponytail
Joan Viola is the "middle ground" between Toni and Jane in several categories. In a literal sense, she's often in the midfield sandwiched between the other two. She's also the middle in age and graded skillset. Joan's endurance and positional flexibility, being able to play anywhere in the midfield, has made her a useful asset in every level she's played so far. Defensively she's decent, known best for not being caught in a bad position, but her vertical game could use some work. Like a true midfielder, her offensive value comes in her creativity and ability to move the ball safely and effectively. Her passing skills are some of the best in the league, absolute precision, but she also knows when to find open room and take longer-distance shots. Her leadership on the pitch, despite her age, makes her even more valuable. She's also a free kick specialist, and may get priority designation for free kicks on the Kick Corps if she continues to prove her consistency with it.

All three of these players have started a majority of games in this tournament for Drawkland, and they've quickly proved their worth. Look no further than the Round of 16 against Visayas Islands.

Real Pressure
The group stage started about as well as it could go, featuring 3 straight wins before a 2-0 loss to rivals Juvencus. It hurts to lose a Revoda Sea Rivalry game, but gli attaccanti were super fired up for the game and simply had momentum on their side. No matter, the Corps got a rather lucky draw in facing the overachieving group winners in Visayas Islands. The two top seeds in that group, Abanhfleft and Saterun, had mediocre showings in the group stage and missed the playoffs, making things easier for both Juvencus and Drawkland in the Round of 16.

La Celeste took advantage of a couple ailing squads in their group stage campaign, but they simply weren't prepared for a team running as hot as the Kick Corps. Loss to Juvencus notwithstanding, Drawkland's national team was still in high spirits after the group stage, and pumped to try and make another deep run in the IAC. The Drawkian offense came out fast and hard, and the Visayans were definitely caught on their heels. Toni Dillan had already developed some solid chemistry with the young forwards on the starting line, and it showed early in this one. Dillan had two assists in the first half, one to Cece Benbow and another to Addyson Santana. Those combined with a Cherry Octavia goal on a counterattack gave Drawkland a 3-0 lead going into halftime.

With such a wide lead, it was already going to be difficult for La Celeste to come back against the Kick Corps. It was going to be nearly impossible with how tight the defense had been holding them. McKenna Reed had three saves, but her day was mostly quiet with how tight the Jane M. Thompson-led defense was holding, Reed's day was pretty easy. The one mishap came midway through the second half, when a nice passing sequence led to Juanfran Artigue finding open space and finishing a goal out of Reed's reach. If any Drawkian fans were nervous about the score ticking to 3-1, their fears were alleviated just minutes later. A yellow card on José Miguel Robles gave the Corps a free kick opportunity, and Joan Viola cashed in to bring back the 3-goal margin.

Ultimately, everybody on the Corps did their job. The 4-1 scoreline was exactly what Drawkland needed to rebound from the loss to Juvencus. It was surely a disappointing end for the Visayan squad in their best soccer performance to date, but it definitely showed promise for the future. Meanwhile, the oldheads in Drawkland had big expectations to uphold, and that continues with a heavyweight bout in the quarterfinal.

A Rematch
Thanks to the group vs group matchups in the first round of the playoffs, Drawkland is set to once again play against Juvencus, just two matchdays after their last meeting in the final game of the group stage. The Revoda Sea Rivalry (named after the body of water which separates Drawkland from Juvencus) is a pretty big deal for Sonnelians, or at least that's what Drawkian and Juven fans insist. This friendly beef has seen editions in both kinds of football as well as basketball, but the soccer rivalry is where it all began.

Despite the fact that Drawkland currently holds a 6-5-5 series lead, the Kick Corps hasn't bested Gli Attaccanti since World Cup 93 qualifiers. In the four games since, Juvencus is 2-2-0, three of those being Independents Cup group stage matchups. This is the first knockout game between the two teams since IAC-17, a third place playoff game which Juvencus also won on penalties. If you count that as a loss for Drawkland rather than a tie, the series is actually even at 6-4-6. Of course, that was fresh revenge for Drawkland's 6-2 drubbing of Juvencus in the previous IAC's quarterfinals, by far the biggest blowout in the soccer history of the rivalry.

Drawkian fans may deny it, but Juvencus is truly the favorite in this matchup. Gli Attaccanti has been a much better team in the last few cycles, ranked #10 in the world while Drawkland languishes in the mid-50s. For years, Drawkland's national teams were the undisputed top dogs in Sonnel, with everybody else playing second fiddle. Nowadays, the script has flipped. Juvencus and even West Barack and East Obama have been in great form, while the Kick Corps has suffered. This is why few were shocked by the Juvencus win in MD5.

Now, though, the stakes are higher. Diana Levitt now no longer has room for error. In a way, it was good to lose to Juvencus in the first meeting this cycle, as it gave the team a lot to learn from. Could they really capitalize effectively enough to not lose a second time, though? This match is going to show a lot about Levitt as a manager. If she can beat a much higher-ranked Juvencus squad and simultaneously earn a semifinal berth in the process, her seat will be a lot more secure going into qualifiers. This has been the most chaotic, perhaps the worst multi-cycle stretch in Kick Corps history (ironic, given the slew of second place finishes in minor tournaments), so DISC is more trigger-happy than usual. If Levitt wants the Kick Corps job long term, this match against Juvencus may be the most crucial of her tenure.

Not to oversell it, or anything. It's going to be a thrilling match either way. Arena der Alpen is sure to be packed, despite the altitude, with multiple Sonnelian fanbases. Drawkian fans are just hoping to not get totally embarrassed in the process. And for the Kick Corps themselves? Maybe they can lend a little help to the Reçuecian movement to LET GIRLS PLAY. They'd done a good enough job already, but a win here could really drive the point. Drawkian to human biological difference notwithsanding.

by **Recuecn** » Sat Mar 08, 2025 1:50 am

OOC: the first two articles are from before the round of 16 game; the third is obviously from afterward. Massive thanks to Valentine Z for allowing me to take this angle on the match.

Statement from the Fédération Nationale de Reçueçn de Football regarding recent protests
Issued by the FNRF Executive Board subsequent to Matchday 5 of IAC 23.

The Fédération Nationale de Reçueçn de Football (FNRF) condemns the protests currently being held at IAC tournament matches across Reçueçn. These protests have co-opted a space set aside for competition and unity, turning an event intended as a multiversal celebration of sport and soccer into a political grandstand. These self-centered displays of demagoguery have already had an irreparable effect on the tournament.

The FNRF and the tournament organizers apologize to fans and players from around the multiverse who have come to Reçueçn, only to have their enjoyment of the tournament ruined. To anyone who has been made to feel uncomfortable by these protests in any way, the FNRF expresses its deep regret on behalf of the tournament organizers, and of the nation.

In response to the situation, the FNRF is taking the following steps, effective immediately:
-Additional security measures are being taken, including
-An increase in the number of security personnel present at all matches,
-Stricter policies concerning items permitted inside stadiums, and
-Safety perimeters put in place around stadiums.
-Fans entering tournament matches who participate in protests will be asked to leave. Fans may be escorted out of the stadium if they are seen to
-Carry signs, placards, or banners associated with the protests,
-Chant political slogans or songs,
-Wear clothing or colors associated with the protest movement,
-Harass FNRF or IACOC match officials, or
-Participate in any activity organized by protest organizers or forbidden by stadium security.
-Political vandalism that has been perpetrated will be repaired, including the slogan painted across the entrance of the Stade National.
-Protesters found defacing or destroying FNRF properties or other IAC host venues will be prosecuted by law.
-Reçuecian players will be prohibited from wearing armbands, participating in pre-match demonstrations, displaying slogans, or in any other way displaying support for a political cause. Players found in violation of this policy will be barred from further participation in the tournament.

The FNRF expresses its hope that fans and players will understand the motivation behind this statement, accept our apologies for the disruption caused by the demonstrations, and comply with the new policies. We hope that our guests from the other regions of the multiverse enjoy the rest of the IAC and that it will pass without incident.

Now let’s get back to what this is all about—all the Independent Associations coming together as one to enjoy the beautiful game!

Approved by the FNRF Executive Board.
Members in Favor: Brice Beauchêne, Cesario Licciardi, Michèle Simon, Alexandre Fernand, Anni Anliker, Ben Müller, Jonathan Avoirpieds, Jean Bourdain, Moritz Neuer, Arne Schleibaum, Maurice Charest

Reçueçn Times
IAC Matchday 5

Federation Browbeating Cannot Prevent Progress

By Jeanne Chartray, Political Columnist
I have been honored to be a columnist here at the Times for the better part of a decade, but long-time readers of my segment know that a few years ago, I was offered a spot on the FNRF executive board as the representative of the Ministry of Sport. Since then, I have done my best to fill both roles to the best of my ability.
However, as an FNRF representative, I feel I must voice my disapproval of the recent decisions taken by the federation. I believe that today’s 10-4 decision by the executive board constitutes a massive failure on the part of the federation, and demonstrates the organization’s complete lack of moral compass—or even basic foresight.
It is no secret that I have participated in the protests sparked by Rébecca Firaut (a young woman with whom I have spoken, and whose passion for justice I hugely admire). I will continue to support her efforts on behalf of female and non-binary athletes across Reçueçn, despite any authoritarian decisions the FNRF may hand down. If my stance results in my expulsion from the FNRF executive board, I will not mourn the loss; it has become apparent that the organization I once helped to reform no longer maintains the principles it once held dear.
When Jean-Luc Lassalle, Minister of Sport, instructed me to take over negotiations on behalf of the Ministry with the pre-reform FNRF board, our goal, as a prerequisite for the federation’s continued existence, was to reestablish it as an organization that made soccer accessible to everybody in Reçueçn, not just the same oligarchical clique that had always wielded power. We ensured that the executive board would include representation for athletes who had not always had a voice; amateurs, youth, and women. At the time I believed that I had convinced the board that this was the right thing to do.
The statement published earlier today makes it clear that the FNRF has never put the wellbeing of the sport or its players above its own image and pocketbook. At a time when people around the nation are calling for change, all the federation can see is the harm done to its own reputation. As we host the IAC, the eyes of the multiverse are on our nation, and rather than take the opportunity to show that Reçueçn can be a modern nation that is accepting of all, the FNRF has made it clear to fans and viewers from every region of the IAC exactly what sort of regressive policies we are willing to accept. The repeated but specious claim that the FNRF thinks hosting the IAC is a symbol of unity is instantly disproved when one considers that the federation fails to include even half the population in its idea of "unity".
The FNRF statement claimed that the protests have done “irreparable damage” to the current IAC. Yet the protests have been entirely peaceful and in fact, largely inobtrusive if you're not attending one of the tournament games. No one has been hurt or threatened, and fans and players from other nations have been treated respectfully. The statement apologized for protests potentially making fans “feel uncomfortable,” but if the idea of women playing soccer with the boys makes you uncomfortable, it is probably time to do a little soul-searching. Beyond highlighting the federation’s own hypocrisy, the worst “damage” the protests have wrought is entirely fixed with a splash of paint remover over the graffiti on the doors of the Stade National.
One thing should be apparent to everyone. If the FNRF is so threatened by a group of women holding signs and wearing black, they must be aware that their position is untenable. The federation is on the wrong side of history. Its complaints about the protests making this IAC tournament look bad in front of the multiverse are genuine, but it is not the sight of a father supporting his daughter on the soccer pitch of which they are ashamed; it is the unveiling of their backwards and oppressive policies at the moment when the eyes of every region are turned to Reçueçn.
The response from visiting fans and athletes is perhaps the most encouraging result of the protests thus far. Certainly, there are nations such as Edsmontik, Crpostran, and Drawkland where, as in Reçueçn, women and men still play separately. But even in those places, women’s sport is far better represented than in our own country. While women’s teams may be given equal or even superior status in other countries, here, female soccer players have never received news coverage of any sort, and their sport suffers accordingly. Even folks from Crpostran and Drawkland can see the injustice for what it is. And other nations, like HUElavia and Valentine Z, more progressive than our own, have been able to see our struggle here in Reçueçn and stand in solidarity with us.
I want to conclude by urging my readers to stand strong and continue to support the movement, despite whatever the FNRF may say. The future of soccer in Reçueçn is at stake, and that is a cause far more important than the “optics” of a single tournament we happen to host right now.

Les Licornes Strike, Forfeit Tournament!
By Georges Quint, Sportswriter

Reçueçn, Reçueçn—The ÉNRF walked off the pitch at the Hôtel Chapelle-Pré last evening in its round of sixteen match against Valentine Z, forfeiting the game in protest against FNRF policy forbidding female and non-binary athletes from playing at the professional level in Reçueçn.

Both applause and jeers rang out from the sold-out crowd of 15,500 as they began to realize what was happening. As confused Valentian players tried to determine what was happening, the match officials hastily conferred. While they deliberated, cameramen ran onto the field to capture the moment ÉNRF captain Gerauld Firaut explained to Valentian forward Holly Van De Hoogte that Les Licornes were on strike. As he walked off the field, he gestured toward his empty net. Van De Hoogte hesitantly rolled the ball over the line, just in case by some technicality the forfeiture was not accepted.

The referees, however, rather than accepting the goal, signaled for the end of the game, and announced that FNRF officials had instructed them to accept the Reçuecian forfeiture and award the game as a 3-0 victory to Valentine Z. No players will be credited for any goals, although the goals will still be counted by the IACOC and WCC for statistical purposes.

Immediately prior to the match, there had been a small row on the sidelines as every Reçuecian player had come out of the tunnel wearing a black armband. In accordance with yesterday’s new FNRF directive, match officials began to eject players as they emerged from the tunnel wearing the symbol of the recent protests. But when it became clear that the entire équipe nationale was going to be sent off, the officials changed their minds and allowed the players to enter the field after making them remove their armbands.

Les Licornes briefly conferred—only a sentence or two was spoken before the players all nodded in agreement, leaving spectators wondering what had just been discussed. The brevity of the huddle indicates that clearly the entire protest, including the ultimate strike and walk-off, had been planned in advance. After the opening ceremony, including the national anthems of the two nations, Reçueçn won the coin toss to start with the ball, and the players took their positions on the field. But the moment the referee blew the whistle, rather than kicking off, Les Licornes turned in unison and slowly walked off the pitch.

With no match to be played, tournament organizers faced a stadium full of restless fans, expecting ninety minutes’ entertainment. The fans had also been restless—several had already been ejected for smuggling in black handkerchiefs as protest symbols. Another group of female protesters circumvented new FNRF regulations concerning items and symbols allowed in tournament venues by painting their chests with letters spelling out “SPORT POUR TOUS” and simultaneously partially disrobing at the would-be starting whistle. Television coverage avoided showing shots of the topless protesters, who were detained by stadium security and handed over to Reçuecian authorities to be arrested.

Fans in support of the protest remained in the stadium for up to an hour, singing and chanting slogans. Others, disappointed, left early. The FNRF has promised to refund the tickets of any fan in attendance not known to have participated in the protests.

As the Valentian Kittens tried to figure out whether they should be celebrating or joining in on the protests, reporters swarmed Gerauld Firaut, looking for an explanation. Firaut was more than happy to use the platform to speak up in favor of league desegregation and respond to questions.

“The équipe nationale is on strike until the federation decides to allow every Reçuecian to play this game, regardless of gender or anything else. The FNRF has refused to listen to its own players and fans, and its response to our protests has made it clear that they are no longer merely negligent, but willfully malicious.”

“My colleagues and I will not be playing any more games in this or any other tournament until female and non-binary players are on the squad. As men, we recognize that the entire system in which we operate has been designed for us—I’m speaking quite literally here; I’m referring to le championnat, the équipe nationale, the FNRF, and even the Ministry of Sport. If we want our sisters and daughters to have access to the same opportunities we do, that means dismantling those systems, which we are prepared to do, starting with our own positions.”

“I do expect the federation to react. I am sure it will be a long time before I get another call-up for the éqiupe nationale, but I’m fine with that, because if I’m not playing in a game that’s open to everybody, I don’t want to play it anymore. But we refuse to be bullied by the FNRF. If they threaten more fines, I am prepared to fight them in court; in this strike we are only exercising the same rights any other worker in Reçueçn is entitled to.”

The FNRF has yet to respond to the shocking decision from the équipe nationale, although a federation spokesperson assured us that they intend to continue the tournament as planned. They added that they do not expect further protests as the strike continues—with Reçueçn eliminated from the tournament, protest organizers have indicated that they do not intend to keep demonstrating.

“Our anger is entirely directed at the federation, the patriarchs keeping it in power, and their odorous policies. We don’t want to affect the other nations visiting us for the IAC, now that we’ve already drawn their attention to this issue, which was our goal. We wish the teams still in the tournament all the best as they continue to play their games.”

At press time, the strike and protests were viral on social media, with hashtags trending such as #AccésAuSportPourTous, #LicornesEnGrève, #LetGirlsPlay, #SportForAll, and #JeLaSoutient.

by **Crpostran** » Sat Mar 08, 2025 1:55 am

Independent Associations Championship 23 [Everything IC]

IAC-23 RP-4

A Kinder World, Prologue IV

IAC MD5

good news: we did not have a group exit

IAC23 Conclusion

IAC Ro16

Three Players, Real Pressure, and a Rematch

A Kinder World, Prologue V

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