Baptism of Fire 87 - Everything Thread

by **Coercia** » Tue Oct 07, 2025 8:14 pm

LAST CHANCE
Broadcast from our glorious leader:
My loyal subjects, today is the day we are waiting for. In not too long, our first ever Coercian National Team will compete against New-Addlebrand to attempt to transfer in to the round of 64. Our team has made exemplary progress and will continue to do so in the coming weeks. I expect nothing less than victory for out team as we are the best peoples in every category, I have made sure of that. This is a big day, and if we win and/or advance to the round of 64, I will be opening up our borders for the first time in years. Allowing our people to travel to support our team as they battle for the championship. Watch as our team dominates the field and clinches their spot into the round of 64. For the glory of Coercia!!!

End of broadcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Inside of the Coercia bus, on it's way to the final game of the group stage

Blackhardt thinks to himself: This is our time! This is our moment! To prove the glory of Coercia to the entire multiverse!

Blackhardt talking aloud: "My brothers! Tonight we show everyone that Coercia deserved the glory it gives itself! That we shall not be underestimated! That we are COERCIA! FOR THE GLORY OF COERCIA!

Chants from the whole team can be heard from the bus as it travels to what may be it's final destination. Where it carries the Glory of Coercia!

by **Equestrian States** » Tue Oct 07, 2025 9:21 pm

Match Day 3, Groups 20-28 Cutoff

No fancy lead in to the cutoff tunes tonight, just enjoy the music while you wait impatiently for your fate to be determined.

Optional MD3 RP Prompt: For many countries, international sporting events can be a time of national unity. Is this the case for your nation? How are fans back home following the tournament? Are fans back home following the tournament? What are their thoughts and feelings as your national football/soccer/hoofball/etc team enters the multiversal stage for the first time?

BAPTISM OF FIRE 87
Farfadillis | Banija | Equestria

Match Day 3 Results

Group 20

Nergtul 1–2 Orioni
at Wild Grounds in Everfree, Equestria

Hanalia 2–0 Dixie Florida
at Sky-High Coliseum in Cloudsdale, Equestria

  Group 20                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Hanalia                     3   3  0  0   11   5  +6    9   Q
2 Dixie Florida               3   2  0  1    7   4  +3    6   Q
3 Orioni                      3   1  0  2    5   6  −1    3
4 Nergtul                     3   0  0  3    5  13  −8    0   E

Group 21

United States of Alpha 0–1 Solarampa
at Grand Regal Stadium in Canterlot, Equestria

Orcuo 3–2 Shizuna Rem Misurugi
at Diamond Park in Stalliongrad, Equestria

  Group 21                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Solarampa                   3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7   Q
2 United States of Alpha      3   1  1  1    5   5   0    4   Q
3 Orcuo                       3   1  0  2    4   7  −3    3
4 Shizuna Rem Misurugi        3   0  2  1    7   8  −1    2   E

Group 22

Andso Mangis 1–0 The Ferret Lands
at Stadium of the Night in Hollow Shades, Equestria

Narovi 1–1 Capitulists
at Shady Grove in Whitetail, Equestria

  Group 22                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Andso Mangis                3   2  0  1    3   2  +1    6   Q
2 Narovi                      3   1  2  0    2   1  +1    5   Q
3 The Ferret Lands            3   1  1  1    2   1  +1    4
4 Capitulists                 3   0  1  2    2   5  −3    1   E

Group 23

Draftcubic 0–1 Brusselstein
at Shady Grove in Whitetail, Equestria

Baldorium 0–6 Super Earth
at The Thunderdome in Storm City, Equestria

  Group 23                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Super Earth                 3   3  0  0   11   1 +10    9   Q
2 Draftcubic                  3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3   Q
3 Brusselstein                3   1  0  2    2   4  −2    3
4 Baldorium                   3   1  0  2    3  10  −7    3   E
  Draftcubic ahead of Brusselstein and Baldorium on goal difference

Group 24

Himurajima 1–3 Bull Sheet
at Elements Stadium in Ponyville, Equestria

Porotia 4–1 Rizzman Empire
at Wild Grounds in Everfree, Equestria

  Group 24                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Bull Sheet                  3   3  0  0    8   3  +5    9   Q
2 Porotia                     3   2  0  1    8   4  +4    6   Q
3 Himurajima                  3   1  0  2    5   8  −3    3
4 Rizzman Empire              3   0  0  3    4  10  −6    0   E

Group 25

Atymnius 1–0 Bhumi Matawis Empire
at The Thunderdome in Storm City, Equestria

Biyambi 3–1 Greater Deutsche
at Stadium of the Night in Hollow Shades, Equestria

  Group 25                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Atymnius                    3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7   Q
2 Bhumi Matawis Empire        3   2  0  1    7   3  +4    6   Q
3 Biyambi                     3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4
4 Greater Deutsche            3   0  0  3    2  10  −8    0   E

Group 26

Cretian Territories 1–3 Europeasia
at Diamond Park in Stalliongrad, Equestria

Equinox Auraterra 2–2 Denyssia
at The Crownlands in Manehattan, Equestria

  Group 26                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Europeasia                  3   1  2  0    5   3  +2    5   Q
2 Equinox Auraterra           3   0  3  0    5   5   0    3   Q
3 Denyssia                    3   0  3  0    6   6   0    3
4 Cretian Territories         3   0  2  1    6   8  −2    2   E
  Equinox Auraterra ahead of Denyssia on the drawing of lots*

Group 27

South Kerala 0–0 Meris
at The Crownlands in Manehattan, Equestria

Surne 1–1 Whispinia
at Grand Regal Stadium in Canterlot, Equestria

  Group 27                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Surne                       3   1  2  0    4   3  +1    5   Q
2 Meris                       3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4   Q
3 South Kerala                3   0  3  0    4   4   0    3
4 Whispinia                   3   0  2  1    5   6  −1    2   E

Group 28

Avote 0–1 Konstantino
at Sky-High Coliseum in Cloudsdale, Equestria

New-Addlebrand 1–1 Coercia
at Elements Stadium in Ponyville, Equestria

  Group 28                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 New-Addlebrand              3   2  1  0    8   3  +5    7   Q
2 Coercia                     3   1  2  0    9   3  +6    5   Q
3 Konstantino                 3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4
4 Avote                       3   0  0  3    3  14 −11    0   E

Host Note: For those of you advancing to the next round: congratulations! Those of you who finished third will have to wait a little bit longer to find out your fates as they will be determined by the best records by third place finishers across all 28 groups. Once all MD3 games have been scored, an additional post containing the third place table and the draw for the Round of 64 will be made.

For those whose journey at the Baptism of Fire has ended or will end shortly, my condolences. I know it may not be the result you hoped for, but qualifying for the World Cup will likely begin within the next few weeks, so you'll have another chance soon enough. I wish you all the best of luck moving forward!

by **Tristan de Cunha** » Tue Oct 07, 2025 10:15 pm

TRIUMPH IN SZOIRSIA
BY: ERICA CORRIS

The Potato Fielders have won their first victory in international football history, defeating the unranked Kilichloom National Football Team 2-0 in Adar Jak Stadium, Sziorsia! This victory ties Tristan de Cunha with rival Veleste for first place in group, going into the final match of the group stage, almost guaranteeing that our team will advance to the Knockout Stage.

The extra days of conditioning and training appeared to have greatly benefited the Potato Fielders when they faced Kilichloom on Tuesday. In the comparatively moderate heat (an overcast day of just 36°C being considered such in Sziorsia), the Potato Fielders showed remarkable skill on the defense and were able to mount frequent counterattacks, controlling the tempo of play and generally appearing far more in-control than the exhausting slog of a match against Veleste just two days prior. Play began in earnest, with both teams fighting for midfield control. However, by minute '24, a general rhythm of play had been established, with Kilichloom's stronger midfield and offense pushing towards goal, only to be kicked back, occasionally allowing the Potato Fielders to press an attack. This style of back and forth attacks continued for most of the first period, until minute '42 when #8 Green headed in a corner kick from #10 Patel, putting the Potato Fielders in a 1-0 lead when the period ended.

The second period saw a similar style of play, with Kilichloom's advantage in the midfield leaving to sporadic attacks, most often answered in quick succession by Tristan de Cunha. As the heat began to wear on our players, Coach O'Toole again began to use his substitutions, sending in #18 Smith, #26 Glass, and #29 Jones for #7 Millet, #10 Patel, and #19 Zhang between minutes '61-'70. With a refreshed midfield support, #9 O'Connor was able to score again on minute '77, bringing the match to a 2-0 lead. The Potato Fielders would continue to fight for control in the midfield and counterattack as able, but they were unable to score again, despite close shots on goal in minutes '79 and '83, both by #9 O'Connor. On minute '83, a yellow card was given to a Kilichloom defender for an aggressive tackle which saw #14 Sedgewick mildly injured and replaced with #16 Dubois. On minute '88, the Kilichloom squad had a final rally and attacked, with a near textbook cross only being stopped by an aggressive tackle from #5 Brown, resulting in a yellow card. #1 Channing was able to block the resulting free kick, and the match ended 2-0.

by **Farfadillis** » Tue Oct 07, 2025 10:24 pm

RP Prompt, Farfadillis Section: A team is nothing if it is not a collection of individuals. Literally. So, with that in mind: how do your players' personalities differ, if at all? Who loves the spotlight? Who would be content putting in an honest day's work back home, but just so happens to be good at kicking a ball around? How many players post several roleplays within the same cut-off window, even though they only count as one and would be more easily tracked as one post? Who believes the Farves judge the nations based on narrative importance and media coverage of the tournament to help determine the outcome of football matches? How do group dynamics unfold within the team?

BAPTISM OF FIRE 87
Farfadillis | Banija | Equestria

Match Day 3 Results

Group 11
Bythia 3–3 Khachen
Imperial Regnum 0–0 Cardonia

- Group 11               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Cardonia                 3   1  2  0    2   1  +1    5
2 Bythia                   3   1  1  1    5   5   0    4
3 Imperial Regnum          3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4
4 Khachen                  3   0  2  1    4   5  −1    2

Group 12
Esistan 1–0 Salagalu
Merulla 4–1 Sibersky

- Group 12               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Merulla                  3   3  0  0   11   5  +6    9
2 Esistan                  3   1  1  1    4   5  −1    4
3 Salagalu                 3   1  0  2    2   3  −1    3
4 Sibersky                 3   0  1  2    1   5  −4    1

Group 13
Stewartika 4–0 Hamborn
Greater Portugaliza 3–4 Putrasia

- Group 13               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Stewartika               3   3  0  0   11   0 +11    9
2 Hamborn                  3   1  1  1    4   7  −3    4
3 Putrasia                 3   1  0  2    4   8  −4    3
4 Greater Portugaliza      3   0  1  2    6  10  −4    1

Group 14
New Arbuckle 0–3 Tristan de Cunha
Kilichloom 3–2 Veleste

- Group 14               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Tristan de Cunha         3   2  1  0    6   1  +5    7
2 Kilichloom               3   1  1  1    5   6  −1    4
3 Veleste                  3   1  1  1    6   5  +1    4
4 New Arbuckle             3   0  1  2    3   8  −5    1

Group 15
Pichvi 4–2 Diollo
X Country 0–0 Salagavanya

- Group 15               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pichvi                   3   2  1  0    7   4  +3    7
2 X Country                3   1  2  0    5   2  +3    5
3 Salagavanya              3   0  2  1    3   4  −1    2
4 Diollo                   3   0  1  2    5  10  −5    1

Group 16
Khaelu 2–0 Grego
Mindhart 0–3 Aritraroy

- Group 16               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Khaelu                   3   3  0  0   10   2  +8    9
2 Aritraroy                3   1  1  1    5   6  −1    4
3 Mindhart                 3   1  0  2    2   6  −4    3
4 Grego                    3   0  1  2    1   4  −3    1

Group 17
Moon Deing 3–2 Lebronsleftnut
Snestar 1–0 Alixe

- Group 17               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Snestar                  3   3  0  0   11   0 +11    9
2 Moon Deing               3   1  1  1    5   9  −4    4
3 Lebronsleftnut           3   1  0  2    3   8  −5    3
4 Alixe                    3   0  1  2    2   4  −2    1

Group 18
Colmaijo 4–0 Hazardia
Konkert 2–2 Golfo Central

- Group 18               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Colmaijo                 3   2  1  0    8   1  +7    7
2 Golfo Central            3   1  2  0    6   5  +1    5
3 Konkert                  3   0  2  1    4   7  −3    2
4 Hazardia                 3   0  1  2    4   9  −5    1

Group 19
Shin-Zetsubo 2–0 Yangchenia
Canamn 2–1 Río de La Plata

- Group 19               Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Shin-Zetsubo             3   3  0  0   11   2  +9    9
2 Yangchenia               3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4
3 Canamn                   3   1  1  1    4   8  −4    4
4 Río de La Plata         3   0  0  3    1   6  −5    0

by **Equestrian States** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 12:45 am

BAPTISM OF FIRE 87
Farfadillis | Banija | Equestria

Third Place Rankings

Third Place Table             Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
Bruinswik                       3   2  0  1    3   2  +1    6   Q
Sector 18                       3   1  1  1    7   5  +2    4   Q
Veleste                         3   1  1  1    6   5  +1    4   Q
The Ferret Lands                3   1  1  1    2   1  +1    4   Q
Biyambi                         3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4   Q
Phoenicia                       3   1  1  1    5   5   0    4   Q
Konstantino                     3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4   Q
Minoptra                        3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4   Q
Imperial Regnum                 3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4   E
Skyberius                       3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4   E
Canamn                          3   1  1  1    4   8  −4    4   E
United Arabian Emirate          3   1  0  2    3   2  +1    3   E
Denyssia                        3   0  3  0    6   6   0    3   E
South Kerala                    3   0  3  0    4   4   0    3   E
Orioni                          3   1  0  2    5   6  −1    3   E
Behh                            3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3   E
Salagavanya                     3   0  2  1    3   4  −1    2   E
Salagalu                        3   1  0  2    2   3  −1    3   E
Brusselstein                    3   1  0  2    2   4  −2    3   E
Baman & Juket Liberationists    3   1  0  2    3   6  −3    3   E
Konkert                         3   0  2  1    4   7  −3    2   E
Orcuo                           3   1  0  2    4   7  −3    3   E
Himurajima                      3   1  0  2    5   8  −3    3   E
Putrasia                        3   1  0  2    4   8  −4    3   E
Mindhart                        3   1  0  2    2   6  −4    3   E
Lebronsleftnut                  3   1  0  2    3   8  −5    3   E
Nova Dackians                   3   1  0  2    1  11 −10    3   E
Burg Land                       3   0  1  2    5   7  −2    1   E
Biyambi, Phoenicia, Konstantino, and Minoptra ahead of Imperial Regnum and Skyberius on the drawing of lots*

As six teams were tied on all tiebreakers, a single round robin playoff incorporating all teams' RP bonuses was scorinated. In-character, the tie was broken by the drawing of lots to determine the four teams advancing to the Round of 64. For transparency, the results of the OOC tiebreaker matches are below:

  Tiebreaker Table     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Biyambi                5   5  0  0   27   5 +22   15   Q
2 Phoenicia              5   4  0  1    7   4  +3   12   Q
3 Konstantino            5   3  0  2    5   5   0    9   Q
4 Minoptra               5   1  1  3    3   9  −6    4   Q
5 Imperial Regnum        5   1  1  3    6  15  −9    4   E
6 Skyberius              5   0  0  5    4  14 −10    0   E
  Minoptra ahead of Imperial Regnum on goal difference

BAPTISM OF FIRE 87
Farfadillis | Banija | Equestria

Knockout Stage Draw

For the Knockout Stage Draw, the remaining 64 teams were sorted into seeded and unseeded pots. The 28 group winners were placed into seeded pots according to points earned in the group stage. The best four group runners-up were then placed together in a final seeded pot. The rankings of the runners-up used to determine the seeded and unseeded teams can be found below:

Runners-Up Table         Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
Ziotah & Riverside         3   2  1  0    4   0  +4    7   S
Seeberg                    3   2  0  1    7   2  +5    6   S
Porotia                    3   2  0  1    8   4  +4    6   S
Bhumi Matawis Empire       3   2  0  1    7   3  +4    6   S
Saint Lazarus              3   2  0  1    7   4  +3    6   U
Dixie Florida              3   2  0  1    7   4  +3    6   U
Mystris                    3   2  0  1    4   1  +3    6   U
Coercia                    3   1  2  0    9   3  +6    5   U
Santira                    3   1  2  0    8   4  +4    5   U
X Country                  3   1  2  0    5   2  +3    5   U
Golfo Central              3   1  2  0    6   5  +1    5   U
Narovi                     3   1  2  0    2   1  +1    5   U
Bythia                     3   1  1  1    5   5   0    4   U
United States of Alpha     3   1  1  1    5   5   0    4   U
Annestah                   3   1  1  1    4   4   0    4   U
Meris                      3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4   U
Yangchenia                 3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4   U
The Miniona Islands        3   1  1  1    6   7  −1    4   U
New Eastern Roma           3   1  1  1    4   5  −1    4   U
Esistan                    3   1  1  1    4   5  −1    4   U
Hamborn                    3   1  1  1    4   7  −3    4   U
Kilichloom                 3   1  1  1    5   6  −1    4   U
Aritraroy                  3   1  1  1    5   6  −1    4   U
Moon Deing                 3   1  1  1    5   9  −4    4   U
Windows 7 Bliss            3   1  0  2    2   2   0    3   U
Denyssia                   3   0  3  0    6   6   0    3   U
Draftcubic                 3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3   U
Seeberg, Porotia, and Bhumi Matawis Empire seeded on goal difference

The remaining 24 runners-up and the 8 advancing third place teams were then sorted into unseeded pots according to points earned in the group stage, regardless of finishing position in their group. This resulted in the following pots which were used for the draw:

The 12 teams in Seeded Pot 1 were then randomly placed in the top positions in the bracket, the 9 teams in Seeded Pot 2 were placed in the next positions and so on until all 32 seeded teams were drawn into the bracket. For the seeded runners-up, they were randomly drawn but were not allowed to be in the same quarter of the bracket as their respective groups' winners as to avoid group stage rematches before the semifinals.

For the unseeded teams, the process was similar, beginning with the 3 teams in Unseeded Pot 4 being randomly drawn into the bottom positions in the bracket and so on. As with the seeded runners-up, unseeded teams were not allowed to be drawn into the same quarter of the bracket as their groupmates.

A link to the complete bracket can be found here. For those so inclined, the site linked has a predictions feature if you want to give a shot at predicting how the next stage of the tournament will play out.

Below is the schedule and venue assignments for the knockout rounds. Please note that, as with the group stage, your matches will be scorinated by the co-host whose nation the match is located in, which may be different from the co-host who scored your group stage matches. This means that you may have a different cutoff time than previously. Your host may also change from round to round depending on your position in the draw. Additionally, for those of you drawn into the Farfadillis section of the knockout bracket, it should be noted that your venues for the knockouts are up to your own decision and you may choose from any of the sites listed in their host info.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please direct them to the World Cup Discussion Thread.

Good luck to you all!

BAPTISM OF FIRE 87
Farfadillis | Banija | Equestria

Round of 64 Schedule

Match R64-1
Snestar vs. Windows 7 Bliss
at Istria Olympic Stadium in Istria, Banija

Match R64-2
Porotia vs. Saint Lazarus
at the Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, Banija

Match R64-3
Atymnius vs. The Miniona Islands
at Mavuto Field in Hoima, Banija

Match R64-4
Colmaijo vs. United States of Alpha
at Keystone Stadium in Sisonke, Banija

Match R64-5
Hanalia vs. Hamborn
at Albert III Memorial Stadium in Dodoma, Banija

Match R64-6
Armeriea vs. Coercia
at Lwanga City Arena in Lwanga, Banija

Match R64-7
Bonusia vs. The Ferret Lands
at Star Field in Herzegovina City, Banija

Match R64-8
Europeasia vs. X Country
at Hangaza Unified Stadium in Aissa, Banija

Match R64-9
Travanta vs. Sector 18
at Kawesa Stadium in Mynda, Banija

Match R64-10
Bhumi Matawis Empire vs. Bruinswik
at BCEL Stadium in Jinja City, Banija

Match R64-11
Pichvi vs. Phoenicia
at Istria Olympic Stadium in Istria, Banija

Match R64-12
Montagne Noire vs. Aritraroy
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-13
Stewartika vs. Konstantino
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-14
Surne vs. AJTON
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-15
Shin-Zetsubo vs. Minoptra
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-16
Tristan de Cunha vs. Bythia
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-17
Super Earth vs. Equinox Auraterra
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-18
Ziotah & Riverside vs. Dixie Florida
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-19
New-Addlebrand vs. Veleste
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-20
Manuelian Empire vs. Meris
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-21
Riandera vs. Esistan
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R64-22
Cardonia vs. Santira
at Grand Regal Stadium in Canterlot, Equestria

Match R64-23
Soviet Kem vs. Annestah
at Thunderdome in Storm City, Equestria

Match R64-24
Andso Mangis vs. Golfo Central
at Shady Grove in Whitetail, Equestria

Match R64-25
Bull Sheet vs. Draftcubic
at The Crownlands in Manehattan, Equestria

Match R64-26
Seeberg vs. Mystris
at Elements Stadium in Ponyville, Equestria

Match R64-27
Solarampa vs. Moon Deing
at the Stadium of the Night in Hollow Shades, Equestria

Match R64-28
The Batavia vs. Biyambi
at Grand Regal Stadium in Canterlot, Equestria

Match R64-29
Merulla vs. New Eastern Roma
at Sky-High Coliseum in Cloudsdale, Equestria

Match R64-30
Natot vs. Narovi
at Shady Grove in Whitetail, Equestria

Match R64-31
Khaelu vs. Kilichloom
at Diamond Park in Stalliongrad, Equestria

Match R64-32
Choppyhausen vs. Yangchenia
at Wild Grounds in Everfree, Equestria

Round of 32 Schedule

Match R32-1
R64-1 Winner vs. R64-2 Winner
at Istria Olympic Stadium in Istria, Banija

Match R32-2
R64-3 Winner vs. R64-4 Winner
at Star Field in Herzegovina City, Banija

Match R32-3
R64-5 Winner vs. R64-6 Winner
at the Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, Banija

Match R32-4
R64-7 Winner vs. R64-8 Winner
at Hangaza Unified Stadium in Aissa, Banija

Match R32-5
R64-9 Winner vs. R64-10 Winner
at Mavuto Field in Hoima, Banija

Match R32-6
R64-11 Winner vs. R64-12 Winner
at Albert III Memorial Stadium in Dodoma, Banija

Match R32-7
R64-13 Winner vs. R64-14 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R32-8
R64-15 Winner vs. R64-16 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R32-9
R64-17 Winner vs. R64-18 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R32-10
R64-19 Winner vs. R64-20 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R32-11
R64-21 Winner vs. R64-22 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R32-12
R64-23 Winner vs. R64-24 Winner
at Diamond Park in Stalliongrad, Equestria

Match R32-13
R64-25 Winner vs. R64-26 Winner
at the Stadium of the Night in Hollow Shades, Equestria

Match R32-14
R64-27 Winner vs. R64-28 Winner
at Thunderdome in Storm City, Equestria

Match R32-15
R64-29 Winner vs. R64-30 Winner
at Elements Stadium in Ponyville, Equestria

Match R32-16
R64-31 Winner vs. R64-32 Winner
at Sky-High Coliseum in Cloudsdale, Equestria

Round of 16 Schedule

Match R16-1
R32-1 Winner vs. R32-2 Winner
at BCEL Stadium in Jinja City, Banija

Match R16-2
R32-3 Winner vs. R32-4 Winner
at Keystone Stadium in Sisonke, Banija

Match R16-3
R32-5 Winner vs. R32-6 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R16-4
R32-7 Winner vs. R32-8 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R16-5
R32-9 Winner vs. R32-10 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match R16-6
R32-11 Winner vs. R32-12 Winner
at The Crownlands in Manehattan, Equestria

Match R16-7
R32-13 Winner vs. R32-14 Winner
at Wild Grounds in Everfree, Equestria

Match R16-8
R32-15 Winner vs. R32-16 Winner
at Grand Regal Stadium in Canterlot, Equestria

Quarterfinals Schedule

Match QF-1
R16-1 Winner vs. R16-2 Winner
at Star Field in Herzegovina City, Banija

Match QF-2
R16-3 Winner vs. R16-4 Winner
at the Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, Banija

Match QF-3
R16-5 Winner vs. R16-6 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match QF-4
R16-7 Winner vs. R16-8 Winner
at Diamond Park in Stalliongrad, Equestria

Semifinals Schedule

Match SF-1
QF-1 Winner vs. QF-2 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Match QF-2
QF-3 Winner vs. QF-4 Winner
at Stadium TBD in City TBD, Farfadillis

Third Place Playoff

Third Place Playoff
SF-2 Loser vs. SF-1 Loser
at Istria Olympic Stadium in Istria, Banija

Final

Baptism of Fire 87 Final
SF-1 Winner vs. SF-2 Winner
at the Stadium of the Two Sisters in Canterlot, Equestria

by **Riandera** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 2:26 am

For the last group stage match, the Rafflesias swept AJTON 6-0. Twelve minutes in, winger Handoyo passed a high-alert AJTON defence, which he replicated at 75'. Riandera achieved their second goal at 37', when Lela Wahyuni struck. At 48', forward Marikali Laksmi took a blow on AJTON, which was followed by Woolridge's attack at 51'. Wahyuni struck again just two minutes before the game ended, making the final score 6-0. Riandera was pushed to the top of the group, qualifying for the Round of 64.

Riandera's next challenge is in Esistan. Recently, they defeated Salagalu 1-0, placing them second in their respective group. The two teams shall play-off in Farfadillis, more specifically Stadium TBD in City TBD.

(RP prompt)

Riandera had just qualified for the Round of 64, and if they win their respective match, things get more serious from there. The Rafflesias have a whole ton of ways to deal with nerves, but their most common method is by motivating each other.

"We've got this!"

They would gather round in a circle, and motivate each other in a short session called "RafflesYeah". It's basically just a portmanteau of "Rafflesia" and "yeah". Sometimes, they'd even do their group chant (called Go Rafflesias!) which sounds a little bit like this:

Go Go Raff-Rafflesias (x3)
Epic Scorin' Raff-Rafflesias

The Rafflesias' chant is based on the Power Rangers theme song, while some would just whistle the tune after a match.

by **Soviet Kem** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 3:16 am

Soviet Kem 1-0 United Arabian Emirate

Soviet Kem defeated the United Arabian Emirate 1-0 securing their spot at the top of group two and moving onto the knockout stages of the BoF 87. The goal came early from Gend Fengski in the twenty eighth minute from a through pass by Fen Nort. Ken Stavisk said after the match, "I am very happy with the boys' form recently. It is great that we have made it out of the group to the knockout stage, topping the group just makes it better. I do not plan on changing any strategy, we will be training for our next match, even if it's not yet announced." The match winner Gend Fengski also stopped for an interview about his performance, "I am very happy that I got that goal, but I have to thank Fen, he is the one who set me up with that chance. It is a shame that we couldn't get any more goals, but a win is a win. And we finished top in the group."

by **Super Earth Under Siege** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 4:15 am

"Good evening, this is Liberty's Latest, I'm Coretta Kelly. As was forecast by our lead sporting analysts, the Super Earth Senators successfully qualified for the next stage of the prestigious Baptism of Fire multiversal freedomball tournament. Sporting Officer Myrom, coach and commander of this elite expeditionary force, had the following to say. Quote: "Our forces were without hesitation or flaw. Our brave heroes rapidly adapted to even the most insurmountable of challenges. Already they have earned their place in the history books, where all logs are kept for analysis. Lady Liberty has shone upon us all. May her light ever continue to bathe us with its prosperous profundity". In other galactic news, Illuminate ruins from the First Galactic War have been confirmed as the source of ongoing spacetime distortions reminiscent of those that once afflicted the Meridian singularity, which itself has been reopened for viewing to the Super Destroyer fleet..."
- Strohmann News broadcast, approved by the Ministry of Truth

Equestria

The Super Earth Senators were walking on clouds.

Literally.

It had taken two hysterical fits from Buzz and an incredibly long rant from Kicker to get the team back into good morale after the sheer shock of it. Exposure to alien technology rendered them paranoid- still they took test after test to ensure no mental differences, no physical alterations. The Illuminate Cult had done a number on Super Earth's cultural psyche ever since the Invasion of Super Earth and no amount of platitudes regarding Equality-On-Sea's fierce defence were sufficient to undo the damage. Now whenever "magic" presented itself, it was seen as a threat. An attempt to cow them into complacency, to distort and twist their freedom-loving hearts into something monstrous.

Despite their best efforts, discipline was low as their match against Baldorium began.

What followed was a display of unprecedented ferocity. Six goals scored against their opponent, a relentless assault from every attacker giving absolutely no ground to the foe. Deadman was in top form, but extra credit had to go to Wader and Chop, who swam through enemy formations as if parting a Voteless horde. By halftime any apprehension had dissipated into the intoxicating sensation of inevitable victory. Fisher kept the goal safe time after time. Kicker placed his kicks near-perfectly on several occasions. The Senators were fuelled by their confusion and enraged by their ignorance, and it led to their most tremendous triumph yet. The team had passed qualification.

It seemed no-one was a worthy foe. The Federation of Super Earth far exceeded most nations in sheer scope. Billions of citizens and billions of enemies and billions of casualties from less than two years of galactic war. Everything in Super Earth was big.

So it seemed fate conspired to make their next adversary one that was even bigger.

But Lady Liberty smiled still upon their number. Equestria had proven an alien place, too calm and magical and disruptively tranquil for a squad of Helldivers to find solace in. Their next deployment, however, was into nothing less than pure chaos.

A match made in Hell.

Sirius

To: Sporting Officer Myrom
From: Ministry of Defense Requisition Office
Subject: Procurement Order SESMFI-02

Freedom's Greetings,

Your procurement order has been APPROVED by the Ministry of Defense Requisition Office Xi Tauri Branch. Your supplies should arrive at SIRIUS, XI TAURI SECTOR in approximately 12 HOURS. You have requested the following items:

x30 AR-23 Pacifier
x300 AR-23 Pacifier standard magazine
x120 G-109 Urchin grenade
x30 CQC-30 Stun Baton
x5 AX/TX-13 Guard Dog "Dog Breath"
x2 GL-52 De-Escalator
x100 GL-52 De-Escalator arc impact grenade
x20 A/M-23 EMS Mortar Sentry (Hellpod-packaged)
x500 Permacura stimulant syringe
x30 I-09 Heatseeker light armor kit
x20 EAT-700 Expendable Napalm drop (Hellpod-packaged)
x500 flying jellyfish repellent (canned)
x2 C-01 permit

Addendum: After considerable discussion we have APPROVED the decision to deploy the team onto the field via Hellpod during match commencements. However, Pelican evacuations have been REJECTED- please adequately defend your planned forward operating base from these Farf insurrectionists. Strategic application of EAT-700 Expandable Napalm launchers is advised to impress onlookers and develop a mutual bond of pyromanic appreciation (denote a Fire Safety Officer before attempting this tactic to take responsibility in case of catastrophic or non-catastrophic failure). We have petitioned to use the Rülândéá Çölíséá stadium in hopes that the pleasant bomb craters will inspire a sense of familiarity and comfort in all deployed patriots.

To: Sporting Officer Myrom
From: Ministry of Truth Information Services
Subject: Investigation Order SESMFI-06

We are busy with archaeology as late so we will keep this brief.

We have confirmed that your opponent, Equinox Auraterra, indeed claims to have a population figure of ~1.1 trillion.

Helldivers are statistically worth ~100 Terminids each.

You have no reason to fear this adversary nor the local environment.

Helldivers Never Die.

by **Hamborn** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 4:18 am

Qualification of Hamborn but a lose 4-0 against Stewartika!

FAN INCIDENT

So the start of the match started well for Hamborn and at only 10' Hamborn fail to goal and just after this an Sterwartikan fan goes on pitch dribble all Hambornian players and shoot in top Micheal Julio take a goal 1-0 for Stewartika.

26 minute later Cho takes the ball pass to Morissey pass Marcus Surli he shhot the goal touch the ball but it pass 2-0 for Stewartika.

Just after 45' The same fan goes take the ball face the goal do the same trick and GOAAAL. 3-0 for Sterwartika. Take the ball in center shoot again at 25 meters and goal 4-0 for stewartika but Noan tackle the fan and he got to hospital. the game continue and the match end.

Arlemus think Hamborn think they was eliminated but after a remontada Putrasia win 4-3 against Greater Portugaliza who gave him an qualification.

Hamborn-Hanalia round of 64

by **Seeberg** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 5:54 am

“They told me to do some commentary about current events, like who scored this and that, the fact that our Mannschaft actually pulled through and how the knockout bracket of things is shaping up,” said Sigismund Schiltze and adjusted his feathered green felt cap, “but how can you say something about today and tomorrow without firstly discoursing protractedly on the many yesterdays of time gone by,” he continued and took a long swig from his stein as he looked out over the vastness of Gneisbänderung Platz in the south of fair Brinterberg. “So while you might expect a small treatise on current attractions or prognostications about things to come, I instead invite you to sit down and follow me in recounting the story of How The Horkenheimers ended up here.” Herr Schiltze devoured his last piece of spätzle and smacked his lips in contentment, before continuing: “Call me old fashioned, but I feel it is only natural to now shine a light on Part 4, wherein underground activities keeps a game alive and over time also gains it unlikely allies.”

“There was no HändeFußy to be found in the streets and parks of fair Brinterberg, or other cities of the Gemeinschaft, in the aftermath of the legislative Gugelhopf initiative, because people in general were lawabiding folks and not about engaging in flaunting deviance for the sake of it. That’s not to say there was no HändeFußy to be found, because people in general were pragmatic folks and not about to let the asphyxiating straitjacket of Seebergundian legal code keep them from getting their preferred exercise.

It was never that people in general were a rebellious bunch with no respect for the law, it was just that the letter of the law was often so rigid that complete abidance was overly arduous and a perfectly good compromise was keeping it clean on the surface of things and keeping the rest on the downlow. It was easier and kept the peace for everyone, and this wasn’t something unique to HändeFußy but rather a quintessential Seebergundian trait and cornerstone of society as such.

While you had to get out of the cities to engage in your more-or-less organized HändeFußy, the planning of those get-togethers was almost exclusively a city phenomenon. History tells us that Wolfberg Konstanzer - a self-employed cabinetmaker of lesser skill - was one of the centrally placed characters in the «prohibition era», and for many years he chaired a group of enthusiasts, organizing folks on the eastern and northern parts of fair Brinterberg from his stamtish at the Heidendegger Brauhaus on Dinkelbrot Straße up in the Münsterheim Quarter.

These covert activities were initially kept small in scale and seldom constituted more than a weekend game, or possibly two, up in one of the bigger glens of the forested slopes way north of the city, but over the years, and especially after Konstanzer took the helm, it slowly grew larger in scale and eventually attained a higher degree of formalization and structure with more people taking part, more games being played, dedicated schedules and eventually tournament-like special events. The Konstanzer crowd, or the Münsterheim Verband, sprung out of a pre-existing enthusiasm for the game and many of the leading figures’ parents and other relatives had represented the northeast in that fateful erste Brinterberger Cup years back, and there were similar clandestine initiatives in the south and western parts of town, organizing their own woodland and mountain gatherings, with their basis in descendants of earlier groups dating back to the Gneisbänderung debacle, and if the much despised first Brinterberger Cup in a sense birthed local city rivalries it was the «secret years» of post-Gugelhopf prohibition that properly cemented them and laid the foundations for their longevity in times to come.

History has been kind to Wolfberg Konstanzer, even though he was by no means the only, or even the most prominent, pioneer of this era. For example, Helmut Dünkelbrotkopf - a proficient carpenter and worker at the Felina Violin Fabrik, down south on Purzelbaum Straße just by Knackwurst Platz, who specialized in crafting violin bridges from the master violinmakers’ designs - was a leading figure of southern HändeFußy tendencies during many years of the prohibition era and played a vital role in how that part of the burgeoning movement organized their members into more stable teams and facilitated a form for competitive serialization.

The historical prominence of the Konstanzer name largely comes down to the work of renowned critical theorist Jürgen Klinkenklossstein, one of the leading figures at the Institute für Sozial Research - out west in the St. Paulina Quarter - at the time, who together with his colleague Albrecht Diggerdeigerschtroumph would come to cultivate an academic interest in the history of - and at the time still ongoing - covert HändeFußy activities and subsequently develop theories about its radical potentiality as a mode of subversing hegemonic societal structures. While doktor Diggerdeigerschtroumph contributed to several of the articles contained in the famous anthology Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes: Radical Disruption and The Social Order, it was largely the work of doktor Klinkenklossstein that highlighted the work of specific individuals, and especially accentuated the role of the, by that time, late Wolfberg Konstanzer. Later academic work by historians have criticized Klinkenklossstein for overestimating Konstanzer’s real contributions to fit with theories about charismatic revolutionary leadership, romanticizing and framing his advanced drunkenness and propensity for domestic violence as part of a revolutionary Urkraft and glancing over the limited part his organizational and logistical contributions actually had in the development of what would become modern Seebergundian football. Still, the Konstanzer name occupies a prominent place on the Seebergundian pantheon of sports to this day.

When the work of Klinkenklossstein, Diggerdeigerschtroumph et. al started hitting the journals and bookshelves, being read by upstanding people in the cafes and bierpalatzen in the heart of fair Brinterberg, along Rheingutstraße, Zuzuzurren Straße, Mohnkloß Allee and on Philharmonisches Platz, it made explicit what had previously long rested comfortably below the covers, and it violated the frail social contract that had made cohabitation between covert HändeFußy and Seebergundian law possible for a long time.”

by **X Country** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 6:02 am

Xians from all round X Country are excited about our results in the BoF so far.

We are hyped after our first match, winning 3-0 against our opponent.

We take our draws in our next two matches.

Xians are excited after advancing to the knockout stages of our first BoF.

by **United States Of Alpha** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 6:07 am

United States of Alpha 0, Solarampa 1
only goal was by Solarampa at 72'

final result: group 21 runner-up
final group stage rank: 42/112 top 38%
qualified for knockout round

My day was kinda ruined today.

Round of 64: United States of Alpha vs. Colmaijo; The Descent into the Blaze of the Baptism of Fire 87

by **Greater Portugaliza** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 8:23 am

The Portugalizan Times

The first Baptism of Fire for Greater Portugaliza ends in disaster!

Greater Portugaliza leaves the tournament without a victory and last in their group. After the first match (Stewartika 3–0 Greater Portugaliza), the manager Joseph Jesus made a bad decision on subbing on José Pereira (CM) who most people believed that his call-up for the team was a bad surprise, as lots of players of quality were left out of the squad. In just a few minutes the opponent scored 3 goals, making the coach sub off José Pereira, who didn´t even get to play 15 minutes.

Our second match ended in a draw with 3 goals for each of the teams (Hamborn 3–3 Greater Portugaliza). This result wasn´t so bad considering that there was hope of a qualification for the next round, but to make that happen, the team needed a win.

Unfortunately, the last match ended in a defeat (Greater Portugaliza 3–4 Putrasia) and the subsequent elimination of our nation from the BoF. Despite being a close match, our team has to pack their bags and head home to prepare for the next tournament.

The Ministry of Culture and Sports is also under fire as they cut the funds and communications with the team when they arrived in the host nation of the tournament. Finally, the Portugalizan FA is considering sacking coach Joseph Jesus due to the bad results. That´s all, thanks for reading The Portugalizan Times.

by **Konstantino** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 9:14 am

FFDK Logo. Acronym in Portuguese.
Konstantino Football & Sports Federation

GAME SIM

7’ Leon M. strikes from distance, but Bob ‘The Brick’ stands tall and makes a safe save!
15’ Donald T. looks to make something happen, but he’s brought down — Roger L. goes into the book for that one!
18’ A dog invades the field and bites the ball, popping it (the stadium had another one). Ivan F. picks him up and takes him to Konstantino's locker room.
25’ Jerome J. has a great chance, but he puts it wide!
34’ Fellipe M. tries his luck from long range, but it’s well off target!
45’ Konstantino is NOT passing now, the team needs to do something. The K.H. is making pressure!
46’ Konstantino backs from the break with a offensive marking football.
55’ Lorenzo G. ⇄ Donald S.
59’ Donald S. misses a one-on-one with the keeper!
64’ Jerome M. ⇄ Desmond L.
69’ Coercia’s back on the front foot, piling the pressure on — and Konstantino’s fans are absolutely fuming!
74’ Free kick to Konstantino — Leon M. steps up... but sends it wide!
80’ Dennis T. lets fly from distance — it smashes off the post and goes out!
86’ Yuri T. wastes a golden chance! The fans are absolutely livid!
90’+4’ In the dying moments of the match, a handball by Harold E. inside the box gives Konstantino a penalty! This is the chance to book their place in the knockout stage — Leon M. can’t afford to miss! He steps up... and scores!"

Konstantino is in the knockouts! After a great match, we have qualified by the Third Places!
- The next game will be hard: one error, and we’re out!

by **Snestar** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 9:26 am

Goalscorers (Snestar):
42' Giacomo Martinelli
Player of the Match: Federico Calvaresi

Snestar struggles but still defeats Alixe 1-0, maintaining the best goal difference of the tournament in the group stage alongside Stewartika

Following Snestar's two 5-0 wins against Moon Deing and Lebronsleftnut, the Viola was faced with a not so stellar performance against Alixe. Keeping a clean sheet, Snestar was able to maintain an outstanding +11 goal difference, securing a Pot 1 placement in the Knockout Stage Draw.

When the match started, Snestaryan players immediately felt the struggle. It was clear that Alixe was determined to win, as they needed to do so to qualify for the Round of 64. During most of the first half, Snestar was completely shut inside its own half, as Alixe kept looking for opportunities. Luckily for the Snestaryan defense, no attempts ended up in the net, though if it wasn't for Federico Calvaresi's astonishing saves, as well as Gallerani and Balestri's providential interventions, by halftime Snestar would've been down at least two goals. In the 27th minute, Migliaccio also was given a yellow card for forcefully holding back an Alixe winger directed towards the goal, and immediately after that, Ramella sprained his ankle while trying to hold the ball in a 1v2. The Snestaryan medical team immediately came to the pitch, and Valentino Garnati was subbed in to take his place. This cycle of defense ended in the closing minutes of the first half, when a long goal kick by Calvaresi found Leonardo de Martino, who immediately began his run towards the goal. After successfully dribbling through the lone defender, his curved shot was saved by the Alixe keeper, though it bounced back into Martinelli's feet, who promptly tapped the ball into the net to make the score 1-0.

Fired up by the goal, the Viola went back onto the pitch with a newfound spirit. Snestar finally started dictating the pace of the match, and play started moving closer and closer to the Alixe goal every minute. A throw-in by Cisse, followed by a heel kick by Acanfora, almost reached Martinelli, who directed the ball towards the post with his head, missing by a few centimeters. However, his position was deemed offside by VAR. The game continued with a series of masterful plays by the Snestaryan players, but the match was far from over. In the 76th minute, an unfortunate handball by Gallerani caused the referee to award a penalty to Alixe. Despite immense protests by the Snestaryan side, arguing that the handball was not involuntary, VAR eventually decided to give the opponent the penalty kick anyway. Valentino Garnati was also given a yellow card, meaning he will miss the Round of 64 match since he'd already gotten one in Matchday 2 against Lebronsleftnut. However, Calvaresi ended up making a spectacular save, followed by Cavaliere (who'd just been subbed in) sweeping the ball away. Snestar still had to suffer for another quarter but in the end emerged victorious.

After the final whistle, we interviewed head coach Camilla Arentas once again to hear her thoughts on the match. She appeared unsettled, as she had just suffered devastating news. The press chose not to question her on the matter.

“It was a tough match. You know what they say: some times may be good, some times may be bad. Surely after those two 5-0, I had basically been handed high expectations on a silver plate… The point is, since we started the competition with two goleadas, we probably overestimated our opponent. For the majority of the game, they were in control. But I was quite happy to see that we still tried to score goals, over and over, despite everything. And in the end we still won. Now it’s time to focus on our next opponent, Windows 7 Bliss… Oh my goodness, what is up with these ridiculous nation names? First it was Lebronsleftnut, now this… Not to discriminate against their people, obviously; it’s just that I still haven’t gotten used to it.”

Camilla Arentas made no comments on Simore Ramella’s injury. Snestar’s medical team has estimated that the young Venistalya player will miss at least two matches. We wish him a quick recovery.

by **Stewartika** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 9:29 am

THREE WINS AND THREE CLEAN SHEETS - STEWARTIKA UNDEFEATED AFTER 4-0 VICTORY OVER HAMBORN

A clear, perfect day awaited the players as kickoff time came (although still cold).

Hamborn started with an aggressive high line and press, but it quickly proved to be a hindrance. An expert through ball from Soon Byun-ho in the seventh minute played Erikkson onside, but the Stewartikan striker quickly fell to the ground, grimacing in pain. After it was clear he was unable to continue playing the match, he was walked off by the medical staff, while Kunio prepared his substitute to come on. It was then that something incredible happened.

Gaius Strabo, Lignunti migrant to Stewartika and father of three, dropped from the stands into the manager’s technical area and requested vehemently that he be subbed on in place of Erikkson. Kunio, who was about to sub on Arnold Hijikata instead, thought about it for a moment, before evidently saying “ah, well”, and let the geezer on, wearing Erikkson’s #9 shirt which was several sizes too small.

With the momentum on their side for the moment, Hamborn had a decent shot on goal from winger Arlemus Luvoski, but it was saved easily by Grovalle. Breaking rapidly from the resulting corner, Strabo immediately showed why he wanted to be subbed on. Dribbling through every Hambornian player with ease, finesse and grace, then faking out the keeper, Gaius Strabo scored one of the most incredible solo dribble goals in Stewartikan history, as a fan coming onto the pitch, no less. After Morissey’s deflected half volley inside the box finds the back of the net for the second goal of the match, the ref blows for half time.

Coming back onto the pitch, Strabo again shows his pure talent, imitating exactly what Morissey did earlier for a third goal, leaving the Hambornians stunned. Then, from kickoff with the goalie off his line he takes the ball once more and slams it from 25 yards out for one of the most unbelievable hat tricks in international football’s history - and one of the fastest braces scored as well. As he celebrates, Hambornian defender Noan comes in with a reckless, angry sliding tackle - who knows what the referee will say. The man’s carried off injured, while Hijikata comes on for the remaining time.

The full-time whistle sounds, and the Stewartikan fans explode in celebration. It’s bitter, ridiculous defeat for Hamborn, and they’ve done all they can - all there is to wait on the results of the other match to see if they will survive.

Stewartika finishes the group stage with three wins from three games, and zero goals conceded - being the joint-best performing team along with Snestar in the competition so far. They also have the odd honor of having the most hat-tricks scored so far, with Morissey’s in Matchday 2 and Strabo’s… right now.

Until then.

Full Time:
Baptism of Fire - Group 13 - Matchday 3>

Stewartika
Hamborn

4
0

G. Strabo ’12, ’45, ’47 (officially credited as "Own Goals)
J. Morissey ’38

MAN OF THE MATCH: Soon Byun-ho (technically Gaius Strabo)

Venue: Den Mytologiska Maneter

Weather: clear, light breeze. 5 degrees.

by **Bhumi Matawis Empire** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 9:32 am

If you want to read the first part, please go here

Matawis Sultanate (1586-1755)

The Sultanate of Matawis was one of the major independent kingdoms in Sagaranusa Archipelago during the colonial era of the area. According to Babad Tanah Jama (Jamaland Chronicle), the kings of Matawis were the descendants of Ki Bagus Songgom which can be traced back to King Prabawijaya, the 11th king of Wanakertha. In 1560’s, one of Ki Bagus Songgom’ son, Ki Gedhe Manahan was awarded a land in Mentaok Forest by the King of Glagah, Sultan Adiwijaya after his success on defeating Arya Jipang, Adiwijaya’s enemy and the last King of Bendoro Sultanate. Mentaok Forest is believed to be the site of the former capital of the Matawis Kingdom. Ki Gedhe Manahan was given the title of Adipati Matawis by Sultan Adiwijaya, a rank similar to a Duke.

In 1584, Ki Gedhe Manahan died and was replaced by his son, Raden Ngabehi Saloring as the second Duke of Matawis. On the other hand, there was a power struggle in the Glagah Sultanate after the death of Sultan Adiwijaya in 1582. The throne was contested by Adiwijaya’s son, Prince Benowo and his son-in-law, Ki Arya Panagiri which ended with Arya Panagiri ousted Benowo from the palace and crowned himself as the second King of Glagah. During this situation, Saloring started to distance himself from the power struggle. However, he was asked by Prince Benowo to attack Panagiri to which Saloring agreed. Attacked from two sides, Panagiri was defeated. Benowo reclaim his position. But in 1586, Benowo agreed to submit under the rule of Saloring. With the support of Benowo, Saloring was then crowned as the first Sultan of Matawis with the title Panembahan Sutawijaya.

Sutawijaya rule was full of conquest. His mission is to unite all Jama under Matawis rule. His first target was Junggalu, a powerful duchy in the eastern edge of Jama who challenged his rule. The area rose to power after the fall of Bendoro Sultanate. Junggalu forces were strong and they were backed by petty principalities around them. To diminish their power, Sutawijaya ransacked those principalities one after another. Seeing the strength of Matawis, the Junggalu leader refrained from his plan to attack Matawis. Knowing that the eastern front had been saved from danger, Sutawijaya turned to the West. He conquered the Caruban Sultanate and Pajajaran Kingdom in 1595. He continued to move westward, targeting the Wahanten Sultanate. All 3 kingdoms were located in Pasudara Island. However, his effort to conquer Wahanten in 1597, failed. He died in 1601 of old age.

The throne went to his son, Panembahan Nyokrowaskito (1601-1613). During his reign, several rebellions happened throughout the kingdom. With the situation, Junggalu took the advantage and tried to attack Matawis in 1612. But Nyokrowaskito was able to push further east into Junggalu’s sphere of influence. Junggalu was still unharmed but most of its vassals were conquered. It was during his reign that Matawis made contact with United Mandalanusan Company (VMC, Vereenigde Mandalanusische Compagnie), a Holandan chartered trading company. In 1613, he died suddenly during a hunting safari session. Raden Mas Martadiputra, his eldest son, was supposed to be the successor. But because of his poor health, he declined the throne in favor of his younger brother, Raden Mas Jatmika. He was crowned with the title Panembahan Nyokrokusumo.

The Sultanate reached its peak during Nyokrokusumo’s reign (1613-1645). He managed to crippled Junggalu and finally conquered them in 1625. His attention then went to the west where there were 2 entities that were still outside of Matawis sphere of influence, the Wahanten Sultanate and the city of Westveld which belonged to VMC. To persuade Wahanten to submit under Matawis, Nyokrokusumo claimed that Matawis was the successor of Bendoro Sultanate, which historically held Wahanten as a vassal state. However, Wahanten opposed this claim and preferred to remain as an independent state. He therefore considered using military power to assert his hegemony. However, he viewed the existence of port city Westveld in near proximity to Wahanten could become a threat. Especially with the fact that the Sultan of Wahanten has a close relationship with VMC. So, Nyokrokusumo targeted Westveld first before heading to Wahanten. In 1628, he started to siege Westveld. The siege proved to last longer than he thought. He then requested more logistics and back up from mainland Jama to support his army there. However, the VMC’s spies located the shipping. VMC ordered their navy to blockade the shipping route. Thus, crippling the operation. Nyokrokusumo had to abandon the operation after death tolls rose due to lack of logistics.

Matawis Sultanate at its peak under Nyokrokusumo reign

The costly and failed siege of Westveld was unpopular amongst the nobles. Nyokrokusumo had to face rebellions after he came to Jama. Several rebellions occurred between 1630-1636. The sultan also launched a conquest against the still-Hindu Besuki Kingdom in the far eastern Jama. At the time, Besuki was supported by the Kamasan Kingdom in Meru Island that treated it as a buffer state against Matawis expansion. Besuki was captured in 1639 but regained its independence in 1659 and rejoined Kamasan in 1697 after Matawis troops withdrew. Besuki became the last conquest of Susuhunan Nyokrokusumo. He died in 1645.


Painting of Panembahan Nyokrokusumo

Son of Nyokrokusumo, Panembahan Tegalharum rose to the throne as the successor. He was known as a ruthless king. Tried to bring stability to the kingdom, he murdered local leaders who were different from him including his father-in-law and son-in-law. He also decreased the number of ports that can be operated to prevent them from getting too powerful from their wealth. These actions plummeted the economy of Jamanese coastal cities and decreased the kingdom’s maritime power. He shifted the country’s focus into a mainly agricultural kingdom. Despite his ruthless behavior, Tegalharum was not a good military leader. He sought peace with VMC by signing an agreement in 1646. He also built a new palace in Lered.

By mid-1670’s dissatisfaction with the king reached its turning point. The largest rebellion was initiated by Prince Maduretno, a nobleman from Medanthen. Maduretno started the rebellion from the east and quickly reached the palace. Tegalharum and The Crown Prince fled from the palace while his younger son, Raden Mas Drajat, defended the palace. Maduretno plundered the capital and withdrew to his stronghold in Kadri. During his retreat, Panembahan Tegalharum died of illness. The Crown Prince assumed the position of the King in 1677 with the title Panembahan Amangkurat. To retake the capital, Amangkurat made an alliance with VMC for military assistance for substantial concessions. Maduretno was chased away and finally captured in a village near Mantyasih (1679). He was murdered by Amangkurat while in prison. Back to the capital, Amangkurat with the help of VMC forced Raden Mas Drajat to relinquish the throne that he held during the rebellion and his father's retreat. Amangkurat was crowned in 1681. As compensation for VMC support, Matawis handed over all of their possessions in Pasudara Island in addition with the port city of Bergota. With the fall of the palace, Amangkurat moved the capital to Kartasura. VMC also built a fort near the new palace to defend them.

By providing their support to regain his throne, VMC brought Amangkurat under his tight control. Despite not liking the situation, Amangkurat was helpless since the kingdom was in financial trouble and fear of VMC’s military threat. However, Amangkurat continued to ploy secretly in order to decrease VMC’s influence in Jama such as sheltering people wanted by the VMC for attacking colonial officers or by disrupting their shipping route. By the end of his reign, Amangkurat was deeply distrusted by the VMC. But they were uninterested in provoking another costly war in Jama.

Amangkurat died in 1703 and succeeded by his son, Panembahan Masjoyo. However, most nobles in the kingdom also supported Raden Mas Drajat to become king. Afraid of his possible rebellion, Masjoyo placed Mas Drajat and his family under house arrest. They were released after persuasion by Patih Suraberata. But their relationship turned sour in 1704. VMC’s most trusted ally, Prince Cakraningrat of Medanthen accused Masjoyo of masterminding an uprising plan in east Jama as Masjoyo had a familial connection with the Duke of Junggalu. He persuaded VMC’s leader to support Mas Drajat to seize the throne. Frightened with possible VMC’s support, Masjoyo ordered to kill Mas Drajat. But they failed to capture him as he and his family had escaped to Bergota. In Bergota, Mas Drajat was approached by VMC. With their support, Mas Drajat rallied to seize Kartasura in 1705. Masjoyo built a fortification on the suburb of Kartasura with Prince Arya Mentaok, his uncle, as the leader. Arya Mentaok persuades Masjoyo to leave the capital to save his life. Little did he know, Arya Mentaok secretly supported Mas Drajat. He let Mas Drajat enter the capital and took it over. Raden Mas Drajat was then crowned with the title Panembahan Mangkualam.

On the other hand, Masjoyo was on the run, chased by Mangkualam’s and VMC’s army. He moved from one place to another until he was saved by the Regent of Gombong, Untung Wiraaji. Wiraaji took Masjoyo under his protection because of his anti-VMC stance. Their army clashed in Bangil where Wiraaji was killed. His son took Masjoyo to Junggalu where he surrendered there. VMC brought Masjoyo to Westveld. He was banished and died in 1734 during his exile.

Mangkualam reigned under the great control of VMC. He was like a puppet king with VMC writing the play behind the curtain. VMC gained more lands as Mangkualam ceded Caruban and Medanthen to them. VMC also gained monopoly over opium and textile. Matawis also have to pay tribute to various commodities such as rice, woods, indigo and coffee in return for military protection from VMC of any threats. And this is where VMC’s military power was being tested. In 1717, a huge rebellion occurred in the eastern part of Jama. The submission of Matawis under VMC’s influence was the main reason for Junggalu's uprising. Junggalu was getting help from the regent of Medanthen. This uprising was subdued in 1718 after Junggalu’s leader was captured while Medanthen leader was killed during a fight. However, the area was still rebelling. Mangkualam died in 1719 and was replaced by his son, Panembahan Suryopramono. His ascension to the throne however was contested by two of his brothers, Pangeran Harya Sudharma and Pangeran Sasangka. They attacked the palace in late 1719 where they had to face the VMC’s cannon. They retreated south and were chased by VMC’s forces. Luckily for VMC and the king, the rebel leaders died in 1718 and 1720. Pangeran Harya Sudharma died in 1721. And in 1723 the remnants of the rebels were surrendered. Pangeran Sasangka was captured and put under house arrest in Westveld.

After 1723, the situation seemed to calm down. Suryopramono died in 1726 and was replaced by his son, Susuhunan Probowinangun without much resistance. But the reign of the new king was still full of intrigues and it came from his own court. Mahapatih Danureja tried to strengthen his position in the court by installing his relatives and colleagues in strategic positions at the expense of the nobles. These decisions were sometimes made without the consent of the king. He became so powerful that Probowinangun had to ask the help from VMC to banish him from the court. He was replaced by Mahapatih Natakusuma. His close relationship with the Queen’s brother, Harya Purbaya, sparked rumors about their sexuality. There was also a rumor about Purbaya’s rebellion planning towards VMC. These rumors caused unrest in Kartasura and hatred from the nobles. After the Queen died of miscarriage, the king ordered VMC to banish him, to which they complied gladly. On the other side, a larger rift builds up.


Ilustration of laborers massacred
by the VMC

Following the fall of sugar price, a wave of bankruptcy of sugar factories happened in Westveld’s suburban area. To control the situation, VMC decided to reduce the numbers of unlicensed laborers. This decision produced unrest throughout the city as VMC authorities forced the laborers out of the city. The situation worsened in1740 as the laborers turned mobs attacked foreigners outside Westveld which incited VMC to massacre the remaining laborers within the city wall. Some of them ran to Chandrabhaga and captured it before the VMC dislodged them in 1741. The unrest spread to Jama especially in and around Bergota, another city under VMC’s control. The rebels captured several villages around the city. Matawis at first was sided with VMC but the VMC’s loss in Battle of Kaligawe attracted the king’s attention. However, the king didn’t dare to confront VMC openly. He secretly ordered one of his subordinates to join the rebels in besieging Bergota. While another one was ordered to attack VMC’s garrison in Kartasura. However, reinforcement came in August 1741 which crumbled the uncoordinated plan of the Matawis and rebel joint forces. This situation made Probowinangun open negotiations with the VMC. More villages fell under the rebels' influence. While in the east, the new regent of Medanthen rose against the rule of Matawis. He quickly captured most of the eastern coast. VMC in the end agreed to help Matawis after the rebels cut the access between Bergota and Kartasura. But by mid 1742, the rebels succeeded in capturing Kartasura. Luckily, Probowinangun and VMC’s general was able to flee from the palace through a secret passage. The VMC abandoned Kartasura and focused their forces to secure the northern coast. By October 1742, the northern coast was cleared from rebels. In November 1742, VMC forces returned to Bergota. Knowing the palace was left unguarded, the Mendathen leader, Cakrabirawa, plundered the palace. In December 1742, the VMC negotiated with Cakrabirawa and managed to persuade him to release Kartasura in exchange for a lot of treasures. Cakrabirawa agreed. Probowinangun was reinstated as the Sultan in December 1742 and marked the end of the war. Matawis lost most of its lands. While Cakrabirawa grew resistance towards VMC’s rule in Jama. He stopped paying tribute to VMC. They tried to negotiate but as the negotiation faced a dead end, VMC attacked Medanthen in 1745. They ousted Cakrabirawa in 1746 and sent him into exile.

The elders felt the fall of Kartasura was a bad omen for the king. Probowinangun then decided to build a new palace in Kutagedhe and moved there in 1746. However, the rebellion didn’t subside. Several princes tried to usurp his position and claim the throne. The most powerful one is Raden Mas Sahid. Probowinangun declared that whoever can suppress the rebellions will be rewarded. Raden Mas Sujana, Probowinangun’s brother, takes the challenge. He succeeded to defeat Mas Sahid in 1746. But when he claimed his size, Mahapatih Pringgalaya advised the king against it. The relationship between the brothers faltered even more after Mas Sujana dissatisfaction with Probowinangun's decision to accept the surrender of some coastal and interior lands of Matawis to VMC. In mid 1746, he raised his followers to rebel against the king and VMC. Mas Sahid also joined him afterwards.

In the midst of the rebellion, Probowinangun fell ill. He died in December 1749. A few days after his death, VMC’s Governor General and Probowinangun’s close friend, Gustaaf Hohensloff, released the king’s last will who agreed to transfer the ‘sovereignty’ of Matawis to VMC. And under the power of the will, Hohensloff selected Probowinangun’s son as the new king with the title Susuhunan Suryobuwono. Historians argued that the will was written under the pressure from Hohensloff despite a personal diary of Hohensloff indicating that Probowinangun himself at first wanted to give the throne to him. The fact that VMC was given the authority to choose the new king incite the spirit of the rebels. They grew stronger everyday. More nobles joined their side including the Crown Prince. The VMC realized that they can’t hold the rebels any longer. By 1754, all parties decided to end the war and were ready to negotiate. In 1755, an agreement was signed in the village of Gajayana between the VMC who represented Matawis and Prince Raden Mas Sujana, leader of the rebellion. The agreement decided to split Matawis into two parts. The western part became Mangkualam Sunanate under the rule of Suryobuwono and his descendants. And the eastern part is given to Raden Mas Sujana who eventually rules as Sultan Kabanaran. His domain is known as Pakunagaran Sulatanate. This Gajayana Treaty marked the end of Matawis Sultanate rule in the land of Jama.

The split of Matawis Sultanate after Gajayana Treaty and its neighbors. Wahanten was a vassal of VMC. Mahameru still independent at the time.

by **Hanalia** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 11:03 am

Kindness

The Floridian style of play was unkind at best and grievous bodily harm at worst. The Floridian Footballing Federations had been at pains to point out the cultural differences in their domestic game that meant their players were more ... forceful in their approach. It's as well they'd sent nearly three teams of players in their squad for the games as with the number of cards they had been shown they may very well need to use all of them with players facing bans from games after some serious foul play.

The Griff had done his research and had the Hanalian players well prepared for the onslaught that would be coming their way. Orioni and Nergtul had squared up when faced with the violent Floridians but this tactic hadn't worked for those teams. Griff had proposed that his team "kill 'em with kindness". If they shove an elbow your way or come in studs up, just take it on the chin. Keep calm and carry on. Then after ten or fifteen minutes start upping the gamesmanship. Exaggerate the trips and call out the sly nudges to the referee. This wasn't something the Hanalian side was quite accustomed at doing but it should get under the skin of the Floridians and that was ultimatly the true strategy. Find and push the Floridians buttons until they overreact and get neutral fans in the crowd and the officials on Hanalia's side. Of course that wasn't going to be enough to win the match on its own but having the opposition playing reactive and emotional football while maintaining our own composure to execute precisely should give Hanalia the edge.

The match got off to a fairly tense start with the Floridians getting the upper hand of possession and dominating territory in the first quarter. With the ball Hanalia were never threatening the goal. They played keep away with the Floridians in midfield. With the plan coming to fruition by the 30 minute mark all five of the yellow cards shown were in the faces of the Floridian folks. In the 32nd minute however Griff's plan teetered on the edge.

In a move from behind that would be forbidden even in the boxing ring and with nominative determinism on full show, Edward Savage launched an attack at Vincent Payne which ended up knocking him out cold. As the medics rushed onto the pitch, McJade rushed Savage and pulled him around, clutching the collar of the green shirt in a fist up underneath his chin. McJade was giving him the full verbal assault as his teammate came too and Monroe came in to diffuse the interaction. Once calm had returned to the Sky-High Coliseum, the referee went to their pocket and produced the red card for Savage while McJade was quite fortunate to see only the yellow. Payne will almost certainly be out for the remainder of the competition but Schneider stepped in seamlessly.

The storm of that situation had cleared the air somewhat but shortly after returning from the break a second yellow card was presented to Gentil (who was anything but). Hanalia were able to score twice against the nine man Floridian team through Nelson (52') and Lin (75'). At the final whistle the fans broke into a chant, one that had been adapted from Bull Sheet's triumph at the Thunderdome.
'We beat the fash, we blanked the boring fash
(The boring fash), it was a football smash
(Now we beat the fash), you'll catch on in a flash
(Then you'll beat the fash), you'll beat the boring fash'

Both teams have progressed to the knockout round of 64, so much was secure from before kickoff, but Hanalia go with three wins from three and atop the group. The draw has Hanalia travelling to Banija for their next match and a couple thereafter should all go to plan. They will hope to return to Equestria as the final of the tournament will be hosted in Canterlot should the team progress that far after having travelled across all three of the co-hosts of this tournament. The first do or die match for this team is against Hamborn who come to Dodoma with a 1-1-1 record in group 13. Their captain Joan von de Polux leads from the front and scored twice in their three all draw gainst Greater Portugaliza. One to watch for certain.

Schedule
MD1 v Nergtul @ Grand Regal Stadium, Canterlot W 2-5
MD2 v Orioni @ Stadium of the NIght, Hollow Shades W 4-3
MD3 v Dixie Florida @ Sky-high Coliseum, Cloudsdale W 2-0
R64 v Hamborn @ Albert III Memorial Stadium, Dodoma, Banija
R32 v Armeriea/Coercia @ Lwanga City Arena, Lwanga, Banija R16 v R32-4@ Keystone Stadium, Sisonke, Banija QF v R16-1 @ Star Field, Herzegovina City, Banija SF v QF-2 @ Farfadillis F v SF-2 @ Stadium of the Two Sisters, Canterlot, Equestria / 3PP v SF-2 @ Istria Olympic Stadium, Istria, Banija Look I'm optimistic okay?

by **Montagne Noire** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 11:09 am

Montagne Noire advances to the knock out rounds

Before talking about the last two matches let's take a look at Montagne Noire's youth system. Dogs ages faster than humans. At 2 years old, you're an adult and can start playing professional. Players retire at 6 or 7 years old. here is a chart:

Age of dog	Age in human years (medium dog)
1	        15
2	        24
3	        28
4	        32
5	        36
6	        42
7	        47
8	        51
9	        56
10	        60
11	        65
12	        69
13	        74
14	        78
15	        83
16	        87

Taking this into consideration, how does our youth system works? Montagne Noire has a hot summer and a cold winter. It's a mountainous nation and skiing and sliding is very popular at winter. We took this in consideration when establishing our football calendar. Football season starts in April and ends in November. Does a dog who'se born in may have to wait until next year's april to start his/her career at 15 years old in human age? No. They can join a team mid season. Also, youth season is split in two parts. A season from April to July and a season from August to November. We have another chart:

Age Category        April-July season	Aug-Nov season
Under 4 months		x		x
Under 8 months		x		x
Under 12 months		x		x
Under 16 months		x		x
Under 20 months		x		x
Under 2 years		x		x

And the big question is: Does a young dog spend his/her youth on a club youth system or with a school sporting system? Considering school season and football season are different, in Montagne Noire, the club's youth system is preferred. And if you wondered, yes dogs go to school. They learn French, English, Mathematics, Physics, History and Physical Education, etc.

Before writing the match report for last two matches, let's talk about players personality. The Montagne Noire Kennel Club is very cohesive and players often encourage each others. There's always players, like Alan Belmore or captain Jack Sparrow, who loves the spotlight more than others. As a counterpart, Citrouille and Luna doesn't like being in the spotlight. Olaf too have an introvert personality. Some players are kind with each other and prefers to pass the ball rather than scoring goals. Millie have that personnality, despite scoring the first goal in Montagne Noire history, she's more of a passer. However, most dogs don't have the mentality of waiting for a teammate to pass them the ball, they all runs toward the ball trying to get it. In Montagne Noire, being assigned goalkeeping duties is like a punishment and at the 1st minute, 15th minute, 30th minute, 45th minute, 60th minute and 75th minute, we have a field player who gets in goal while the one previously assigned at goal stays on the field as a field player, like a rotation. However, last match against Aethelia, we had Alan Belmore as the goalkeeper for the whole match because he was punished for missing the team's curfew last night. He was seen at a bar in Banija drinking Alan Belmore beers made in Nova Calania.

Matchday 2 against Ziotah and Riverside was a 0-0 draw. All six players who had their 15 minutes of punishment in goal played very well but offensively was a disappointment. Ziotah and Riverside is, honestly, a very good team and we wish them good luck in the round of 64.

Matchday 3 was against Aethelia and we liked them, they were very nice with us doggies and we're sorry that we beat them. Alan Belmore was punished the whole game and played the game of his life, blocking all shots on target but one. Aethelia's only goal was scored by Sorcha at the 82nd minute. Gandalf is another player who had the game of his life, scoring 3 goals and the final score was 5-1.

Following the game, Manager Viking said he was very impressed with Alan Belmore's performance in goal, but if he becomes a good dog, he won't be in goal for a whole match again. Montagne Noire's next match is in Farfadillis against Aritraroy. Manager Viking didn't announce the starting XI but Alan Belmore and Millie won't play to give a chance to other doggies to play.

Written by Coco

by **Stewartika** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 1:17 pm

UPDATE ON ERIKKSON INJURY, ROUND OF 64 LINEUPS

From a press conference, Bunta Kunio has revealed the shape of his system going forward into the Round of 64, as well as an update on striker Darius Erikkson’s condition, who was subbed off early in the match against Hamborn after experiencing pain following a sprint.

“Darius has picked up a minor muscle tear - it’s disappointing, but there’s nothing we can do but keep him rested and allow him to fully heal. If we are fortunate enough to make it further in the competition, I predict he’ll be ready to play again in the quarter-finals.”

“As for our opponent Konstantino, they’ve barely scraped past the group stage in the third-place rankings via drawing of lots. That means they’re not to be underestimated - they’ll be desperate to prove themselves. We’ll take them as seriously as any team, and do the same as we’ve always been doing. I’m hoping for a good match.”

Line-up info:

3-1-4-2

The injured Erikkson makes way for Arnold Hijikata, who after starting the first group stage match was benched thanks to the change in system. The midfield sees yet another change, with Soon and Morissey moved to the left and right sides respectively, and Park being dropped in favor of Bergmeier, who is hoped to bring some more attacking formidability to the team. Strand is rotated out for Himmel as the push through the knockout phase begins. Stay tuned!

Round of 64>

Stewartika vs Konstantino

KO 20:00

by **Andso Mangis** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 1:36 pm

*tv cracks to life* Hello to all Andsonians watching this program today we will have a special segment on our men's national team. In their first major international tournament our men's teamed has successfully gone to the round of 64 in the Baptism of Fire. However it wasn't easy, We were put in a group with Narovi The ferret lands and capitulists. Finally our team arrived and proceeded to drop a 0-1 loss against Narovi sending us to the third place spot on the table. However, we never gave up in our next match we proceeded to sneak up past capitulists 2-1 a win keeping our hopes alive. Still in third place however we would need a win against the ferret land stop get in and if we wanted to get first place we needed narovi to drop or lose their game against capitulists however this was unlikely as they considered themselves to possibly be the best in our group. Still, we pressed onto week 3. Our match was the first in the group and was a thriller as we managed to score off a 2nd minute penalty and hold on with crazy saves and some offsides calls. and in the end we kept on trying and won 1-0 to what was and is a guaranteed spot in the playoffs. The next game still had to happen Capitulists looked lost at the start conceding early in the 15th minute off what was a horrible defense and slide however a lucky penalty manage to go their way in the 87th minute. This was it if capitulists didn't concede another goal Andso was on and then IT happened Narovi managed to slip and slide past the defense and then GOAL however the refs flag was up offsides and a simple punt by the GK ended the game sending Andso through as the NUMERO UNO in the group. Now we want you guys to show up and show out against Golfo central See ya there.

by **Soviet Kem** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 4:21 pm

Group 2 Matchday 3 - Soviet Kem vs. Annestah

3-2-2-1-2 Formation
Starting XI

GK 6 Zoinski
CB 58 Kenidky
LCB 19 Gente
RCB 17 Jent
LDM 15 Fendski
RDM 11 Hedzinski
LCM 10 Putanik (Captain)
RCM 56 Genish II
SS 29 Gligimesh
LST 23 Nort
RST 20 Fengski

"We must now start our fight to get to the final of the BoF 87. We may have topped group two and made it into drawing pot one, but now we have a challenge in Annestah. We must respect them, but we also must play our football. The boys are eager for us to move onto the thirty-two and are willing to do what it takes this next game to move on to the round of thirty-two." Ken Stavisk said during a pre-match conference ahead of Soviet Kem's fixure against Annestah.

by **Ziotah and Riverside** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 8:01 pm

Ziotah and Riverside prepares for the Round of 64, test against Dixie Florida awaits

Ziotah and Riverside's preparations for the round of 64 are underway, and the team finished a solid but intensive training session today as manager Eric Taylor continues to get his team ready for a clash against Dixie Florida. Ziotah and Riverside have enjoyed an injury-free start to the tournament, and they hope to continue that trend going forward. All 23 players are available for the next match, but Eric Taylor is expected to stick with his starting eleven. Dixie Florida finished second in their group, similar to Ziotah and Riverside. While some have called Ziotah and Riverside the favorites going into the next game, the team isn't taking any chances. "We're not taking anything for granted. We have to take one game at a time and not underestimate our opponents. Dixie Florida has some tough guys, and I'm sure it will be a battle," commented Gerry Durrie to the Lindon News-Tribune. "We are confident, and we'll play our game."

Ziotah and Riverside's fans were seen helping with trash cleanup around Banija today as the group stage has drawn to a close. They will fly to Farfadillis tomorrow. Ziotah and Riverside's Prime Minister has sent a message of support to the team, and she plans to attend the next game to cheer them on. The Prime Minister has also sent a thank-you message to Banija's head of government, Kabaka Mwanga, for the hospitality the country has shown to Ziotah and Riverside's team and supporters. She hopes that Ziotah and Riverside's spirit of solidarity and camaraderie was reflected in the behavior of the fans.

Ziotah and Riverside's Starting XI vs Dixie Florida (4-2-2-2):

by **Saint-Lazarus** » Wed Oct 08, 2025 8:16 pm

SAINT LAZARUS QUALIFIED TO THE ROUND OF 64
Hoima, Ankole, Banija

The team arrived in Hoima for their game against Very Totally Free. The fate seals on the team's hands after their win against Bruinswik in Busukuma. "We were kind of ready to take on Very Totally Free.", says Usman. "But we need some changes to beat them." Usman got alot of changes for the squad, as Ortega remains in goal, Robles and the captain Pascual will be joined by Pangantihon on the defense, Gella and Lamanilao will join Uemura and Yee, and the Cheon-Marasigan-Viray trio will remain on forward. The barra brava of the Carabaos were proudly supporting the national team. And also sang proudly the national anthem. Pascual choses to defend on the right side and the first half starts, Pangantihon, on his first cap as a starter, showed his defensive prowess of the Very Totally Free players and gave Gella his ability that no one has seen before, and then Marasigan went for the goal, 1-0. The avalanche from the crowd is massive enough for the boys in light blue as Marasigan flips off the crowd ~~(not the middle finger)~~ like its nothing. Then there were shows of weakness in the defense as Pangantihon got fouled by a Very Totally Free player that his yellow card was just "very totally free" from the referee, and a 'very totally' free kick awaited for the Very Totally Free boys and scored a 'very totally free' goal and the crowd felt 'very totally free' from getting humiliated, or are they? As in the 2nd half, Pangantihon and Robles were subbed off by some fresh new defenders, Calderón and Guanzon for their respective first caps for the national team. The duo went to dazzle up the defense and went on for Guanzon to accidentally score a long goal. "Now I give you a 'very totally free' humiliation, motherfucker!", says Guanzon on the cam, taunting the Very Totally Free nation by their name. But that didn't end Guanzon's defensive antics as he went on to charge some Very Totally Free forwards and gave the ball to Gella and went on for an attempted solo goal, but Viray heads it in and went on to sing a Spanish version of Evidencias heard from Ana Gabriel on the field's boom mic:
"*Es una locura el decir que no te quiero
Evitar las apariencias ocultando evidencias
Mas ¿por qué seguir fingiendo, si no puedo engañar mi corazón?
Yo sé que te amo"
After singing, he gets along with the crowd. But the madness didn't end there as the last goal will be scored by a penalty of the goalkeeper himself, Ortega and then also sings a song on the boom mic as well, but instead, it's a salsa from Jerry Rivera and dance at the same time:
"**¿Qué hay de malo en soñar?
¿Qué hay de malo en reír?
¿Qué hay de malo en ser joven y vivir?"
And ends his performance with a shout of "VAMOS!!!!!" into the crowd. And the final whistle goes, the whole team got celebrated as they enter Round of 64 and celebrated with the fans and some of the players are invading the stands to be with them. Also went on to sing some of the chants made by the barra brava themselves. "I've seen some players having their time of their lives after humiliating them 4-1.", says Usman. "But after that, we must focus on the opponents on the round of 64. And, maybe win the whole thing?" And laughed. "Never knew we can have fun playing against them!", says Marasigan. "But aside from the fun, we must focus on beating our opponent in round of 64." And their opponent is Porotia and they will go back to Busukuma to face them and hopefully the Carabaos will advance to the next round.

Translation:
* = It's crazy to say that I don't love you
To avoid appearing by hiding the evidence
But why just keep pretending, if I have to deceive my own heart?
I know that I love you

** = What's wrong for dreaming?
What's wrong for laughing?
What's wrong for being young and alive?

by **Bonusia** » Thu Oct 09, 2025 1:50 am

FRIENDLIES

INDUSSE 4-1 BONUSIA
^{G. Grundjee 23' 39', D. Hazle 62', T. Bashir 81' // I. Pedra 50'}

BONUSIA 2-4 CALGASIA
^{J. Ramon 11', A. Cea 80' // J. Novák 4', G. Renner 41', M. Bohren 55', Z. Urbánková 89'}

CALGASIA 2-0 BONUSIA
^{Z. Mosser 47', C. Cieszyn 71'}

MEIA-ARMADOREN 1-0 BONUSIA
^{A. Júnior 69'}

COERCIA 4-2 BONUSIA
^{D. Trumpus 23' 31', J. Jensen 47' 69' // A. Cea 8', B. Formiga 83'}
BoF 87 SCHEDULE
Group 8

Matchday 1 - SEEBERG 0-1 BONUSIA
^{I. Pedra 79'}
@ Albert III Memorial Stadium, Dodoma, Bunyoro, Banija

Matchday 2 - NOVA DACKIANS 0-7 BONUSIA
^{A. Cea 15' 29' 70', A. Poveda 37', P. Miró 53', D. Banach 86', I. Pedra 90+3'}
@ BCEL Stadium, Jinja City, Hangaza, Banija

Matchday 3 - BONUSIA 5-3 TORNADICO
^{I. Boleda 4', Y. Morad 38' 50' 77', I. Pedra 90' // [INCORRECT FORMAT] 20' 31' 69'}
@ Lwanga City Arena, Lwanga, Buganda, Banija
KNOCKOUTS

Round of 64 - BONUSIA vs THE FERRET LANDS
@ Star Field, Herzegovina City, Moravica, Banija

- Welcome to El Ressopó, live on Carca TV, the favourite sports talk-show for the fellow night owls that just didn't get enough! My name is Salvador Bonet and next to me are my usual guests: Ramon Berenguer,

- Hi! Thanks for having me, Salvador.

- Berenguer Ramon,

- Hi Salvador, thanks for having me!

- And, last but not least, our beloved Calla Callat, also known as "El que no parla mai".

- Gla-

- We come to you with fresh info, dear viewers, as the last game of the group stage finished in Lwanga. If you've been following the live transmission, our national team, in a match where they didn't play for anything, since they already had the top spot of group 8 secured; still ended up winning by 5 goals to 3 against Tornadico. As for all the nighty games, we'll bring you the first resume, with the best highlights from the match. Now, for the headlines. Ramon?

- Salvador, my headline is clear: "Clear Bonusian victory with an exhibition of offensive prowess."

- And what about you, Berenguer?

- Clear is my headline, Salvador: "Scoring thrice, Tornadico puts Bonusia in a tight spot."

- Pretty different conclusions there, guys, but we'll discuss the game in full detail later. What about your titular, Calla?

- My ti-

- Well, Berenguer might be onto something about his titular, granted, as Bonusia did really show a lack of intensity and defensive strength today. It's true that they played basically for nothing, but after the victory against Nova Dackians expectations were clearly higher.

- As water clear, with the party that had been had by half the squad the day before, nobody should it surprise!

- Yes, indeed. *video appears on screen* This video posted on our player's Yonatan Morad's social media has spread like fire across the Internet. It shows himself alongside 5 other Bonusian selectionees hanging out in what appears to be a Banijan techno disco, the night before the match against Tornadico. It has raised criticism amongst the nation, as people question the level of compromise the squad has to their mission of winning the tournament or, at least, get as far as possible in it.

- Well, in my opinion, Salva, we should not get carried away by fear and negative thoughts. Despite some players going out, the team still managed to get a good win, having the same ease in creating danger as in the match against Nova Dackians. It's normal that our players they want to explore Banija! They are young, and most -if not all- of them haven't even got out of the country yet. I believe that the best thing Boquete can do now is talk to them and make sure they prepare the best way possible for the knockouts.

- There is need for them to understand that wrong they did! If they didn't play, that would've been nice. Delusional you are, Ramon!

- Then how do you explain Yonatan's performance today? Despite apparently having partied all night, he carried the team, scoring three goals. Certainly getting loose might've even helped him.

- Circumstantial only, his good performance. All the matches until ours had been lost by Tornadico. Not a big prowess his performance has been tonight. Else kicked out we get, some order and discipline must be brought by Boquete, in my opinion.

- Mayb-

- Well, let's not get to carried, please. We still have a lot of things to go through. Now we'll connect with our special corresponsal in Banija, Regina Quaresma. Hi Regina!

- Hiii, sweethart! We're in the outskirts of Lwanga, and let me tell you, I'm IN LOVE with this city. Some great guys invited me to see the triceratops and OH MY GOD they were the CUTEST BIGGIES EVERRRR!! Well, I come to ask some little funny questions to our LOVELY friends from Bonusia, that came all the way to this DUBBY DUPER country to see the match. I LOVE ASKING QUESTIONS SO MUUUUCHHHH. Let's start with you! Hii sweetiee!

- Uuh hi.

- What's your name?

- Uuh my name is Roger.

- Tell me, Roger, what did you think of the match?

- Uuh I think it was a great game, it seemed like the Tornadeecks were at some moment pushing very hard, but luckily the team didn't break and uh, we could push back and get it done in the end.

- Oooh wow, you are SO smartt!! And who do you think is the cutest Tornadeeck player??

- Uuh, I didn't really notice, idk-

- Well you DON'T need to responde for who the CUTEST Bonusian player is! Boleda, isn't it. Oh my he's SO HAAANDSOOME! And he's like SOOO mysterious, isn't he?

- Uuh idk what to say-

- Well, Robert, handsome, thanks a lot for your answers! Bye bye!

- Uuh I'm Roger ac-

- NEXT! You, what are your names?

- I'm Carla and he's Miquel!

- Oooooh you look so cute! Are you together?

- Uh, no, we're just friends, we're bo-

- Ooooh you would definitively look SOOO good if you were togetherrrrr!!

- What?

- Well that doesn't matter right now, my beautiful fairy. Tell me, what did you both think about the game?

- It was amazing, we made very good coming here, Banija is a fun country and our team is getting very good results.

- Do you thing we could win this tournamentey thingy honey?

- I think that if we keep- *two drunken man fully body painted with the Bonusian flag colours jump in front of the camera*

- WE WON, RAUXA!!!! LET'S GO BONUSIA, THE BEST IN THE WORLD!!!! *hic*

- *Both start jumping and chanting, with the same rythm as this song.* Adéeeeu, Tornadico adéu! Adéeeeu, Tornadico adéu! Adéeeeu, Tornadico adéu! Adéeeeu, Tornadico adéu!...

- Alright, as we see the fans who travelled to Banija are pretty... excited, about Bonusia's advancement into the knockouts. And now, a last minute news: As all the matches finished, we know know the full bracket for the knockouts. Bonusia entered as a top seed into the 1st quadrant, and will face in The Ferret Lands in the Round of 64!.. Oh, and our production team already has got a graphic display of Bonusia's path to the Final Four of the Tournament! Wow, call them slow workers!

- There're a lot of strong teams in our part of the bracket, and some of the favourites included. On the left side, Snestar walked over group 17, battering Moon Deing and Lebronsleftnut by 5-0 each. And Colmaijo should also be reckoned with, they showed a lot of potential on these 3 first games.

- Atymnius, we should be careful about that one. Good playstyle is dominated by them.

- You said Colmajiro, but I think that the United States of Alpha will surprise a lot of people, in my opinion they are one of, if not the most, underrated squads in the tournament. They are young and hungry for victory, that's for sure.

- Very well could be, Ramon. In a knockout, any team can kick out any team, especially in the BoF. On our side, though, we got some interesting teams. Most notably, Hanalia, which is one of the favourites to win the tournament. They are very adaptable and can turn upside down any team's plans with ease.

- Coercia don't you forget. In a friendly we have already been beaten by them. Rival hard it is.

- Absolutely, Berenguer, Coercia must not be played with, they already showed us their potential.

- I al-

- But playing all these matches is still hypothetical, first we must beat our rivals in the Round of 64, which have ended up to be The Ferret Lands! Which is a nation inhabited by... otters?

- They'r-

- Oh, wait, they're ferrets! That's why they're called The Ferret Lands!

- Ooh, I love ferrets, they're so adorable!

- As one enemy more should we see them. In our way to success they stand, must play strong as always we!

- Well, despite the pecularity that they seem to be a nation of intelligent ferrets, it seems that they don't play bad football, although they started stronger than they ended.

- I think our team is more than ready to win and to advance to the next round! If our young strikers find themselves in the zone, no one will be able to stop them!

- Unsure I am of this, very fragile we have been against Tornadico.

- But we were capable of that historic 7-0 against Nova Dackians! And we stood against Seeberg, who certainly were a sweat!

- Know do not Ramon, what to tell you...

- Can I-

- Alright, we will talk more about this later on. Now, let's see the highlights of the game!...

In a park somewhere in Lwanga

Coach Boquete sat in his wheelchair, wondering about what step to take next. The players had clearly disrespected him, leaving for an all-nighter right before the last match of the group stages. Granted, we had already gone through and we still won, but the knockouts are different, every game has the highest stakes of it, 1 loss and it's done. And teams, of course, were only going to get better as they got through rounds. He had clear that these outings could not be allowed...

- Hey coach, what's up man?

Jofre sat next to his worried manager, with his typical parsimony. One that only saw him playing, would be surprised by how slow he moves off the pitch.

- Oh, it's you Jofre. Not much, just clearing my mind.

- Something going on on that mind of yours, man?

- Kind of. I don't think I can talk to you about it though.

- It's all right man. We chilling. Do you want something to help?

- I guess it won't hurt...

Then, Jofre got out of his bag an artisany rubdisk, with a very intricate pattern.

- The true Weepian stuff man. My uncle makes em and he got me some for the trip. Only got this one rn but this one got made to relax your brains and to give ya all solutions to your problem.

- Medina has told you that you cannot consume disks while you're in duty.

- Come on man, it's chill, I haven't taken a lot anyways.

- And anyway, a Llimanian rubdisk? Won't it be too hard?

- Nah man this is a soft one chill, it won't harm you.

- You know? Maybe it will help me think things through. Alright, bring it on!

Jofre handed the disk to Xavier. He used to stroke disks back in his uni days, but that was a very long time ago. Despite his reticence, though, he started stroking the disk with his thumb while holding it with his index and his middle fingers. As the drug slowly penetrated his skin, he started geting more and more relaxed and started having visions of important people in his life. Mostly of when he was young, of his footballing days before his inhabilitating seizure. In front of him he saw two long unseen friends back from Barçanini.

- Xavi! Glad to see you again

- We missed you friend. Wanna play some football?

Coach Boquete would have cried if he wasn't drugged, but he tried to spoke with his friends: - Guys, you know I cannot play anymore... Not since that day?

-What do you mean?

- Don't you see me?! I cannot play anymore.

- Man, come on. You can do whatever. Even if you don't play, you are important for us!!

That phrase made Xavier think a lot. He thought he was getting close to his answer. But suddenly, on the actual reality coach Boquete was detached from, two Banijan police officers spotted Jofre and Xavier, who was still on his rubdisk-induced trance. Of course Xavi was not in the condition to talk to the officer, so Jofre took the lead.

- Wassup, man?

- Good morning sir, you both are not Banijan, are you?

- Nah man we came for the BoF, dude it's so hyped.

- Is your friend alright?

- Yeah he just tripping right now man, chill.

- What's that he's holding in his hand?

- Best rubdisks in Pungapu man, that's what it is. Hand-crafted. Want some?

- Are those "rubdisks" a drug?

- Well, I mean kida ig but idk man.

- I haven't seen this in my life, have you?

- Never either.

- Where are you from?

- I'm from Wèep and he's from... eh idk man.

- Country I mean.

- Oooh kay man, we're Bonusians then.

- Let me check your passports.

*Jofre takes his passport and Xavi's aswell and shows them to the officer*

- Sorry sir, but for now we'll have to confiscate this and take you to the commissary to ask you both a couple of questions.

- What? Dude we need like to go to the other city.

- If you collaborate with us, maybe you'll be able to leave for it soon.

- Aw man, come on. We have like rights or something know? Chill out man.

- Just enter the damn car or I'll have to cuff you. Take your friend aswell...

Baptism of Fire 87 - Everything Thread

Sunburnt, but Moving Forward

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