Baptism of Fire 88- EVERYTHING THREAD

by **Tomerion** » Fri Apr 17, 2026 4:01 am

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Crystal "Tally" Nazarbayev
@tallyoneohone | THEY/THEM | 23YO (DOB: JUL 7, 2002 CE) | POSTING FROM SERLULIA, CITASIA, SUDILIA, THE PACIFIC | APR 17, 2026

Lemme be clear here: the mood amongst us Tomerian Magentas was pretty tense, ESPECIALLY bcuz we knew that the results of this match were surely gonna make or break our qualification streak... but now we feel pretty chill yet still willing to attempt whatever it'd take (ESPECIALLY better practice) to ensure we get as deep a run in BOF88 as possible beyond the QFs... and THAT'S THE SPIRIT FOLKS!

Anyway... since I'm a bit of a music geek myself (even having studied music theory for two years at the high school I went to back in Dohaville) lemme name the sorta music that tends to be popular in my home nation of Tomerion: pop music sung in various languages! And iirc @yumidrumpflololol shared something a while back alongside her pic in that park in Tsamtin about there being a load of recognized minority languages in Tomerion so... you'll rather naturally be able to find a Tomeripop chart hit from the past 30 years or so that's featured lines in at least two languages if you look hard enough.

Oh and before I go... I'mma leave y'all with a pic of the breakfast that I had BEFORE leaving Gorbach for Serlulia. Looks nice amirite?

[583K reactions | 3.9K comments | 560 reposts]

Benito "Toto" Carey
@realtotocarey | THEY/THEM + HE/HIM | 22YO (DOB: OCT 29, 2003) | POSTING FROM SERLULIA, CITASIA, SUDILIA, THE PACIFIC | APR 17, 2026

Me hearing that new Kent Hylland song being played on the streets of Serlulia after sunset following a round of training for our quarterfinal match against Pomachetti's Men in Green:

(btw thx for all the support that all of you soccer fans from around the multiverse have given us Magenta Stars, it's wholly appreciated )

[710K reactions | 4.3K comments | 600 reposts]

LINEUPS FOR TOMERION v COMMUNIST NORMANDY AND BRITTANY - 12/Apr/2026 @ 17:00-18:40 (UTC+7)
(NB: 1Y = one yellow card, 2Y = two yellow cards, DNF = withdrew with explicit permission,
DSQ = ejected with a red card, GO = goalscorer, -> = substitution)
——————————
TOMERION (TMR):
GKP   Madison HILFIGER (DNF) -> Crystal NAZARBAYEV
DEF   Benito CAREY (GO)
DEF   Aaliyah CHUN
DEF   Faith TENNYSON
MID   Mustafa NISHIWAKI
MID   Yasuo SANDBERG
MID   Chandni BERRABAH
MID   Janet BUCHANAN
MID   Morgan PARTAKIS (GO)
ATK   Hiromi UTADA
ATK   Kelis BEN-GURION
——————————
COMMUNIST NORMANDY AND BRITTANY (CNB):
[no public information available]
——————————
FINAL GOAL COUNT: 2 (TMR) - 1 (CNB)

by **Maritaine** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 2:59 pm

Fam in Manchbury

Approved by the Royal Maritaine Football Federation

"The level is just too advanced"
"The bezel is Tiffany stamped"
"Don't grip on my hand"

The diamond system that Maritaine invented at the beginning of the tournament has finally worked. At first, no one took us seriously. Our countrymen took us for idiots when we started to hype up this system. Look who's laughing now. We have officially started our conquest for a multiversal football trophy. By defeating the national team of Frayston 3-0 in our first-ever WCC-sanctioned knockout match, in which Maritaine managed to come out victorious, the Royal Tricolors of Blue and White have managed to transition their national team from a "surprise of total nobodies" into one of the biggest threats to the throne of glory. The national team of Maritaine has reached the quarter-finals with this win, and the buzz in the cities across Maritaine has been absolutely unmatched as everyone and their moms are cheering for the players to fight and play for the Republic. We didn't just plan to beat Frayston; we needed to outsmart them in tactics, IQ, smartness, basically every single department, to prove the rest of the world that the footballing philosophy of Maritiane of a diamond shape can overtake even the biggest of park-the-bus defensive blocks and tactics being played.

The game was absolutely beautiful from the very start to even the game's finish. Frayston started the game with their Blue Shield formation, commonly used in each of their Group D group stage games, hoping to drag out the game for Maritaine into a long war fought out on the pitch. But Maritaine, and more specifically, Alexander Le Pons, had other plans for Frayston. In the 21st minute of play, the captain himself laid the matchball down to take a free-kick about 25 years out. With a mentality of much focus and attention, he decided to launch that shot (instead of crossing it over to the wingers) to send that ball right over the Frayston wall and into the top-left corner. The stadium (Stadio Giovanni di Pietro, located in Serlulia, filled with about thirteen thousand electric Maritaine fans, all began to just burst as Alexander Le Pons jogged towards the fans, doing his normal celebration, a salute right to the crowd. It was honestly stunning. It was his third goal of the tournament and his fifth goal involvement so far. Alex is just like that.

The second half managed to get even better than the way the first half was going. It managed to showcase the White Horse striker himself, Tyson Stallion, as he put on a masterclass, alternating his position as a striker and even a midfielder. What can't this man not do? In the 55th minute, Marc Glimmer sent the ball bye-bye as he crossed it over from the left wing. Tyson Stallion, showing absolutely zero signs of trying to give up throughout this tournament, head-topped two Frayston center-backs to hit the ball into the bottom of the net. It was Stallion's third goal of the tournament, too (now tied with Alexander Le Pons), and it effectively broke down Frayston's attempts of trying to come back. The work shown in their training camps has made the Maritaine players look as if they are playing a different style of football than the rest of the other nations.

The match was finally secured by the fastest man on the Maritaine national team squad, and probably inside the whole country too. As Frayston pushed up all of their players forward in a desperate attempt to try to cut the goal difference back and even perhaps score a goal, Ignatius Gloss intercepted a Frayston pass in the midfield and immediately launched that ball right into the path of Mako Drift on the wing. Drift began to elegantly run and cut inside, as he glided effortlessly across the pitch. That was art. Leaving the Frayston wing-back in his dust, he slowly hit the ball calmly past the keeper and slightly hit the ball again into an empty net in the 79th minute to seal the deal. Maritaine 3, Frayston 0. The mission was finally complete. The Royal Tricolors have become that team. They are who they think they are.

In the locker room, the feeling among the boys is filled with joy and ambition as they get excited after advancing to the quarter-finals in the tournament. The initial celebrations of the first knockout (Round of 16) win for the boys were shut down within thirty minutes by a silence started by the captain himself, Alexander Le Pons. Coach David Decius walked throughout the dressing room, hugging and greeting each squad member, but his message at the end of all of this was clear: "The quarter-finals are where we prove ourselves. It's where people start remembering your team, and not what happens to you afterwards." There is a main message to take out of all of this. Maritaine needs confidence. Some of the squad have a small sense of confidence, but it isn't a certain type of confidence that real teams possess. They know for a fact they have the team and the tools to help them win the next game, but they also know that their next opponent in the Round of 16, Aamathyr, will be the hardest team they have ever faced this tournament thus far.

The fans travelling all the way to Sudilia have been really supportive of the squad and have even turned each city they enter into a Mini-Maritaine. The local Sudilians have even fully embraced the Tricolores, probably due to the large number of Maritaininans supporters popping up across the country. Maritaine fan zones outside of stadiums on matchdays have become the norm for Maritaine fans, often caught listening to loud Haute-Sereine music on a speaker, and some fans even managed to smuggle some Krazy Voo's into Sudilia that sell out at Maritaine fan zones within about twenty minutes. Even the Song of the Free is being sung so much by the Maritain fans that even the Sudilian locals who didn't even know Maritaine existed a month ago sing it proudly too.

Back at home in the country, the Republic has been doing quite well in a state of productivity. The economy has been majorly boosted through the Maritaine national team's BOF run so far. All of those off-brand, cheap factories along the Glimmer Coast are working extra hard to make more white and blue scarves, while the people near the Thalassa Plains host watch parties about every single day as some of those people manage to breathe football. The citizens of the Republic of Maritaine aren't just rooting for some random national team; they need something to put them on the map in this international stage. The only thing Maritaine's primarily known for is that one war fought against Jaoaa (The Maritain-Jaoaan Conflict of 1949) and for formerly being a colony of Natkr. The quarter-final in the Baptism of Fire will probably end up being one of the biggest events in Maritaine's sports history. This is an opportunity to make a big impact on the country.

Krazy Voo's even decided to make a new meal called "The White Horse Wonder Meal - Not Associated with his Trademark", a spicy wrap designed to wake up each fan and keep them up for the game against Aamathyr, especially with the late-night kickoff in set. In the city of Stormwatch, Sentinel SC's stadium has been temporarily set to a blue and white colour inside the stadium. There is a feeling of destiny in the air. People are wondering if Maritain can win, and if they win, who will lead them to glory. Alexander Le Pons? Stallion? The burden is on them. Will we have a deep run? Who knows? Anything can happen. This is why we love the beautiful game of football.

by **Marsonne** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 4:12 pm

Marsonne's Baptism of Fire run deepens as Centaurs win fourth straight
Wonderkid de Fougerolles' stoppage time heroics see Marsonne through to quarterfinal matchup against Marbleland
Marie-Ève Pichon (@MEPichon)
^{Sports | Sarlat, Marsonne}

Marsonne 3 — 1 Nusandara

NSD — 4-3-3
GK — Santino Varela
RB — Hector Valdez
LB — Eanged Arteaga
CB — F. Ngirailemesang
CB — Diego Navarro
CM — Alfonso Bentang
CM — Rogelio Santos
CM — Andrés Lindo (C)
LW — A. Ginandjar-Pérez
ST — Fernando Castaño
RW — Marco Parcón

MAR — 4-2-3-1
GK — Pierre Corneille
RB — Arsène Chaufourier
LB — Marius Rougier
CB — Franck Bouchut
CB — Paul-Gustave Blot (C)
CM — Luc de la Motterouge
LW — Anselme Camus
CM — Antoine Ladmirault
ST — Guy de Fougerolles
CAM — Jacques Le Cam
RW — Yvan Sarrault

Match Statistics
17
12
3.17
9
7
8
4
0
0
495
86%
7.22
55%
10
6
0.77
4
6
8
2
2
0
403
82%
6.77
45%
Shots
On Target
xG
Corners
Free Kicks
Fouls
Offsides
Yellow Cards
Red Cards
Passes
Pass Completion
Average Rating
Possession

MOTM: de Fougerolles (MAR)

Goalscorers
Camus - '32
de Fougerolles - '90+1, '90+4
Castaño - '31

PONKUAYRINA, SUDILIA — The Marsonnian national team has won four straight games in their Baptism of Fire campaign. If they can win three more, they lift the trophy — but that could yet prove a tall order indeed. The Centaurs faced off against Nusandara on Thursday afternoon, participating in their first knockout game in history. Contested before a full house at Ponkuayrina's Sudi Arena, Marsonne would dispatch Nusandara 3—1 at the same grounds they defeated Cothe Saria 3—1 in the campaign opener. Marcelin Marsanne's decision to bench star player Jo Bonaventure was met with incredulity by the Marsonnian faithful — the manager had deemed it necessary to rest him with the expectation that the Centaurs would progress further into the tournament, and his gamble, it appears, paid off.

As was the case in their final group stage game against Doychnya, it would be Marsonne's opponents who would strike first during Thursday's proceedings, the tepid and taut football of the opening half hour pierced by the thunderclap of a Fernando Castaño screamer, a veritable rocket of a shot rifled into the top-left corner from distance. The celebratory mood among los Halcones' supporters would be cut short, however, as the Centaurs would steal level not a minute later — immediately launching an attack from resumption of play. As play shifted into Nusandara's box, consecutive shots from Yvan Sarrault and Jacky Le Cam were denied but not held by goalkeeper Santino Varela. As the ball subsequently bounced around between various players for a few moments of pinball in the box, it eventually found itself at the feet of Anselme Camus, who converted his forward momentum into a ferocious knuckleball shot. The ball was in the back of the net before Varela could react.

These incredibly eventful two minutes of football, would, however, subside — perhaps wary of conceding any more, both teams shifted to a noticeably more defensive pattern of play, with the fixture marred by a succession of fouls that prevented either side from gaining any meaningful momentum. As various substitutions for both teams began to occur and time began to wind down, the deadlock that had taken hold of the game looked ever durable and unlikely to break — it appeared increasingly probable that Marsonne's first ever knockout game would be decided in extra time, or, that failing, penalties. As the fourth official indicated an allotment of four minutes of stoppage time, however, the crowd at Sudi Arena would become suddenly disabused of this notion. Impelled forth by an apparent burst of second wind, Guy de Fougerolles, Marsonne's lone striker who had otherwise been anonymous all game, burst into action, at last breaking through Nusandara's backline to earn his team a 2—1 lead in the 90+1st minute.

The goal was sensational, prompting rapturous celebrations both in the stands and at home in sports bars in Sarlat. Using stepovers to mask an elastico, de Fougerolles beat Eanged Arteaga before passing Diego Navarro — who had moved out of position to cover him — with a well-timed Cruyff turn to evade the defender's tackle. A one-two pass with Arsène Chaufourier got him past Fernando Ngirailemesang, and the coup de grâce was the grand pont to round the keeper and score. The 21-year old's silky running and flashy skill moves bordered on showboating, but the end certainly justified the means. The cherry on top came three minutes later, as de Fougerolles struck again with a towering header into the net off a corner kick — this would be the final sequence of play in the game. Next, the Centaurs will travel west across the length of Sudilia's north coast to Botes, where the Ivan Wellington Stadium will host their quarterfinal matchup against Marbleland.

88th Baptism of Fire Campaign — Marsonne

Schedule
Group Stage
MD1: Marsonne 3—1 Cothe Saria @Sudi Arena, Ponkuayrina
MD2: Kaisers Syndicates 0—1 Marsonne @Stade Raphaël Dutoit, Margis
MD3: Doychnya 1—2 Marsonne @Lakeside Stadium, Pacharahuall

Knockout Stages
Ro16: Marsonne 3—1 Nusandara @Sudi Arena, Ponkuayrina
QF: Marsonne vs. Marbleland @Ivan Wellington Stadium, Botes

Goals
Guy de Fougerolles - 4
Joachim Bonaventure - 2
Anselme Camus — 1
Jacques Le Cam - 1
Jean-Pierre Paradis - 1

Assists
Arsène Chaufourier - 2
Antoine Ladmirault - 2
Jacques Le Cam - 2
Yvan Sarrault - 2
Marius Rougier - 1

Appearances
Paul-Gustave Blot - 4
Arsène Chaufourier - 4
Jacques Le Cam - 4
Guy de Fougerolles - 3(1)
Luc de la Motterouge - 3(1)
Antoine Ladmirault - 3(1)
Joachim Bonaventure - 3
Paul-Louis Fargeau - 3
Yvan Sarrault - 3
Alphonse Godefroy - 2(1)
Marius Rougier - 2(1)
Laurent Melville - 0(3)
Antoine Carême - 1(2)
Pierre Corneille - 2
Anselme Camus - 1(1)
Napoléon de Pernety - 1(1)
Félix de Bombelles - 0(2)
Franck Bouchut - 1
Jean-Pierre Paradis - 1
Séraphin Ricard - 1
Hippolyte Taffanel - 1
x

STARTING XI VS MARBLELAND (QF)
4-2-3-1

DE FOUGEROLLES
BONAVENTURE ---------- SARRAULT
LE CAM

DE LA M-ROUGE ----- LADMIRAULT

ROUGIER ------------ CHAUFOURIER
BLOT --- BOUCHUT

CORNEILLE

x

by **Gwarkos** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 5:02 pm

Gwarkos is through to the Quarter Finals, proving that they’re better debutants than Warkus were back in the day, after a two nil win over Yuzhnya. They scored more than one goal but thankfully didn’t concede anyway, so the team isn’t too fussed about failing to live up to their one nil philosophy. Besides, I’m pretty sure late game substitute Hafgan scored in the ninetieth minute because he was desperate to get his name on the goalscorer’s sheet, and no one is gonna tell him not to try to score goals. C did claim that winning the Baptism of Fire would be a good start to their World Cup-winning mission after all and in the absence of any meaningful progress in the team’s investigation since the last game they’re kinda hoping they’ll get a hint or something as a reward. C does, if that initial message and if that ConcettAI.exe thing are any indication, seems like they might be friendly or at least playful rather than totally hostile.

The team’s success has led to the establishment of the unofficial Gwarkos Supporter’s Society, led by a Gwarkos superfan Seren Aelwen. Seren is a Warkusian software engineer living in Nyareth Newydd who describes herself as ‘Gwarkos fujoshi’ – ‘fujoshi’ being a Japanese word that literally means ‘rotten woman’ but in practice refers to female fans of literature and media with an obsessive interest in romantically ‘shipping’ male characters with other male characters. She told the Warkusian media outlet GDW that she’s a ‘massive Bran-Gwawl fujo’, meaning that she consumes fanart and fanfiction depicting Bran Kalon and Gwawl Siarkol in a romantic relationship, although she qualified this by saying she respects the wishes of the actual people involved and believes fans of classical Warkusian literature should not impose their perspectives on the real people involved. The Gwarkos Supporter’s Society, or rather the Gwarkos fanbase in general, seems to be composed of the following groups:

1. Fans of the old stories involving the players or modern adaptations of them, who are simply excited to see the characters they love in the flesh, regardless of how or why they’re here playing football and regardless of their genuine identities.
2. Self-styled investigators who are curious about the team: who the players really are, if it’s possible, they actually are these legendary figures from Warkusian mythology, what kind of crazy metaphysical shenanigans are involved if they are and so on.
3. The ‘parasocial groupies’, for lack of a better term, who find the mostly very good looking players and their ‘cool’, anime-like outfits appealing.
4. The ‘second team’ supporters who aren’t Gwakos fans per se but are happy to count them as their second national team. This includes fans of Anaian post-football, who have a new and unranked team to support that isn’t in range of competing with the Audioslavia’s and Ko-oren’s of the multiverse, along with Warkusians who are keen on supporting their ‘bizarro cousins’.

They have, naturally, attracted their fair share of haters too. Remember that, as far as the average person is concerned, these players absolutely cannot be the figures from literature and mythology that they claim to be. The most popular explanation regarding their identities is that they’re a bunch of rich LARPers who’ve tricked the WCC and CAFA into letting them become a ‘national’ football team and as such there are some people who are angry that they’re even in this competition in the first place. There are also some Warkusians who, far from being excited to see their mythology represented in the form of a football team, are upset at what they see as their cultural heritage being exploited so that someone can try to win some trophies. The funny part is that they’re not exactly wrong about that, just wrong about who’s doing the exploitation.

The team’s Quarter Final opponents in Bharatamandala are going to present a tougher challenge than any other team they’ve faced so far. The Blues finished on top of a tough group, which was the only ‘group of death’ in this edition of the Baptism of Fire with the top three teams all having made it to the Quarter Finals. But it’s not like they’ve dominated their way here or anything. Bharatamandala won their Round of 16 tie by a single goal, which was scored eighty eight minutes into the match, and they drew two of their group stage games – including one against Kendoria, who finished at the bottom of the group table. Still, the pressure’s got to be piling on for both sides at this stage. A win means a place in the Semi Finals, which means either team only needs to win two more games to win it all, but that’s easier said than done. There are no weak sides at this point: every opponent is dangerous and every team has the capability to punish mistakes. You can tell it’s getting to the players, at least a little bit, because they’ve actually started practicing their football now. Their training methods are predictably unusual, with lots of seated meditation and spell casting, but it’s a big change from arguing about the etymology of nation’s names and discussing the philosophy of winning one nil.

by **Aamathyr** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 5:47 pm

“So whom, exactly, am I going to meet here?”
“Ha. Whom.”
“I’m sorry for speaking Thyrzanjo correctly.”
“And then you’re surprised that there’s resentment towards Nanwacj.”
“Less changing the subject, more answering my original question. Even I can tell standing around like this makes us stick out.”
“Alright, alright. The harbormaster here, his name is Avshruun. He’s nice enough, and he owes me a favor or five.”

And so up the stairs they went, Thuraand fumbling a bit as he opened the door. He was greeted by a blast of salty air beyond even what he had gotten accustomed to, and the stone-cold face of a man who, Thuraand immediately decided, was not in fact nice enough.

“Don’t tell me this is another one of your little projects, Sjashoom. We both know what happened with the last one.”
“Hey, how was I to know he was a gambling addict? You can’t blame that on me.”
“Well, what about the time before that? The Siiku one, who tried to fly?”
“Look, his glider did get pretty far, I just overestimated his skill.”
“All I’m saying is you don’t have the best record when it comes to things like this.”
“You haven’t even met this guy! Give him a chance.”
“Fine, but if this goes wrong…”

Sjashoom shoved Thuraand forward, whispering as they shoved him, “Just be chill.”

“So who are you?”
“His name’s Thuraand.” Sjashoom couldn’t help but butt in.
“You really need to learn when to shut up.”
“And you really need to learn to stop going to visit-“
“Point taken. Let me talk to him, though.”
“Okay, I’ll step back.”

“As I was saying, who are you?”
“Like they said, my name’s Thuraand, and-“
“Yeah, but what do you do?”
“What?”
“What do you do? How could you be useful to me?”
“Well, I have some experience with the law, and I’ve heard you’ve had some trouble with the Tjukkarl.”
“So we have. The Tjukkarl are lawful people, though - if you could find some sort of document supporting us, they’ll stop fishing in our waters. Do you have any experience with records?”
“A bit, yeah.”
“That’s a bit more than most people. Let me talk to Sjashoom a bit more, but I think I might have a job for you.”

That went well, Thuraand believed, as he retreated back to his natural place behind Sjashoom.

“So, what’s the drawback?”
“Whatever could you mean?”
“Don’t act all innocent. Every time you bring someone to me, there’s always some twist. Just tell me what it is already.”
“Oh, he’s from Nanwacj.”
“That’s it? To be honest, that’s not too bad. I could deal with that.”
“Also, he’s on the run.”
“WHAT?”

by **Pomachetti** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 6:12 pm

Pomachetti 5 - 1 Eriadni

Goal scoring events:

7th minute - Sarcisian revives a quick ball from Papiola. Sarcisian finds the space between the defensive line and runs through. Theo goal is scored after he stayed composed in the 1-on-1

15th minute - A quick counterattack was the result of Eriadnian captain Ye Ting intercepting as pass from Florensí intended for Mambhíní running a line to cut inside. He lobbed it up the field to Xiang Ai who putted a perfectly waited through ball to Bai Yanyu. The goal was slotted in precisely into the bottom-right corner.

27th minute - Salbhoé returns the ball to Papiola, Florensí runs a deep route to draw the defender. Papiola passes to Florensí, who passes the ball on with a rabona as soon as the ball in close to him. This ball finds Éirpir who breaks through the wide open defence to score.

43rd minute - A corner delivered by Salbhoé swinging in meets Sottíní at the near post. The power of the swinging in corner combined with Sottíní’s powerful header finds the back of the net.

55th minute - A rock solid defence stops any Pomachettian advances and attacking opportunities. Unable to break through the line, Sarcisian decides to shoot the ball in a powerful travela to the top right corner of the goal. The ball reaches the back of the net. One for the highlights reel.

79th minute - In the victory formation, 5-1-2-1-1, a desperate attack by the frustrated Eriadni team was shut down by Scaillerton. With the ball, he launches it up the field as hard as he can. The ball finds the feet of the fresh-legged Diríbaya who had beaten his defender, delivering the ball into the bottom left corner.

The full time whistle blew, and the night in Sudilia was full of ecstatic Pomachettian fans. The quarter-finals awaited.

The News at Eight
Pubs worship Pomachettian win

“And now with the sport, Pomachetti has successfully qualified for the quarter-finals of the eighty-eighth edition of the Baptism of Fire. This came after a stunning five - one victory over Eriadni. Pubs from all across Pomachetti, The Western Isles and Sudilia have been watching every kick of the ball since the start of the tournament. Here’s our local sports correspondent reporting from Cruchedén Sí, one of Mophto’s many pubs.”

“It was an incredible atmosphere and incredible win in this pub in Mophto. Cruchedén Sí, a pub situated in the heart and centre of the city of Mophto was one hundred and ten percent full tonight with the game broadcasting from Sudilia. Among the many fans dwelling in the pub was local Síemí Rostieord, who was more than keen to share his emotions”
“YEAAHHH! Now that’s what I’m talking about! The boys did an amazing job tonight, and now it’s time to celebrate! We’ll be behind yous all the way to the cup Dabhí! Tomerion, we, are, coming for you!”
“It is truly an incredible time to be Pomachettian. Móchiél Aosci, reporting.”

“And that is our correspondent reporting from Central Mophto. You can catch the action where Pomachetti will take on the Magenta Stars of Tomerion in the Baptism of Fire quarter-final in a few days’ time Coming up with music: The Utophian music festival has been confirmed as the location for the annual Pomachettian Mega Conecrt. The event will feature Pomachetti’s most favourite artists, including: Faeren C.M., Ceopón Gláoni, Foeviluz, and many more artist. The nation’s alternative rock, punk rock and hip-hop scene are notable and prominent genres of music rocking Pomachetti’s sound.

The Fans
Chapter 2: The Vigilante

Púl and Maoros walking park after getting take away food
-Sees a few shady people
-After a while of chat why their friends are not here, the shady people attack
-cool fight scene, Púl wins, Maoros shocked
-Púl and Maoros run to car
-Púl explains to Maoros that he is secretly a vigilante who sabotaged a criminal organisation covered as an ethical-focused business; Police refused to investigate so Púl went in on his own. He covered himself up as a social media influencer. Now the criminal organisation is after him.
-chase seen ensues
-they lose the chasers, in a very cool way with cool destruction and explosions (not harming Sudilia)
-they ditch the car at a parking lot and catch the train from Serlulia to Batellereroi
-cut to where criminals stopped
-crime boss An Céos Grendi pulls up in black Audi A6. He orders things and it's revealed that he has kidnapped their friends

no one saw the plan for the story :meh:

Not for the first time, the streets outside the stadium were full of the colour green and the sound of very, very elated Pomachettians. The pubs around Serlulia were going to have the most amount of profit they ever made in a night’s time. Pomachetti has advanced to the knockout stages. Among the masses of people exiting the stadium, Púl and Maoros had the plan to drive to the other side of the city where it would be much quieter. Púl had strategically parked the car in parking space near the exit of a large parking space in walking distance of the stadium and by the quickest route to the other side of the city.

Púl and Maoros were walking in a large park that led them to the car. The evergreen trees covered them from the evening sky, and a golden path guided them. Not actually golden, the sun that was just about to disappear under the horizon gave the gravel footpath that looked like the famous yellow brick road.
“Incredible results, isn’t it,” Maoros’ voice was lost from all the shouting and chanting he loyally partook in during the match.
“Yes, over the moon!” although not as sore as Maoros’ Púl also had a crackling voice. “We need a pint to celebrate that!”
“So across Serlulia we travel!” Maoros hadn’t lost any energeticness
Púl, sharing his friend’s energy, couldn’t help but notice a man dressed in a fully black tracksuit gazing at him.
“What’s the matter?” asked Maoros.
“Nothing, nothing.”
Another man dressed in the same tracksuit who seemed to be reading something on his phone was located by Púl a little further down. This was suspicious, and Púl was fearing the worst. Finally, another man in the same exact tracksuit came from a path that branched off the path they were walking on suddenly called for some help with some directions. Maoros, being the compassionate person he is, didn’t hesitate in walking over to the man and helping out. Púl called out at him.
“Wait!”
Púl quickly turned around and saw the two men from earlier running at full speed at him.
“Get them!” Called the man asking for directions.
The directions guy gave Maoros a right hook, only for him to be wrestled by Maoros into a tree.
Púl on the other hand, lunged in to kicked the first man to arrive on the shin, making him fall to the ground in agony. The second, attempted a jab to Púl’s nose, but was blocked and given the same treatment, only this one by Púl was successful. Púl continued with two more punches to the faces and an uppercut for good measure to make him unconscious. The other man got up, but received a jab to the nose. Allowing Púl to get behind, knee his tailbone and punch his head to put him into an unconscious state as well, thrusting him onto his colleague. In the meantime, the directions guy had attempted to reach for his handgun, which was flung from his hand whilst attempting to grab it when Maoros tackled him into a tree. The two fell over. They both glanced at the gun, and both lunged to grasp it. They both got hold of it and tugged it. Púl, now free of the attackers, dashed to the two. He gave a powerful kick to the remaining attacker’s head.
“Argh! What the demná!”
“Maoros, run to the car.”
The two sprinted to the car.

Once there, they spent no time in getting in and racing away from the scene. Maoros was in shock. He tried to speak, but could only spit out one word.
“What.”
“Look Maoros, there’s something I need to tell you. I’m not just an ordinary social media influencer.”
“Then what are you?”
“I’m a vigilante.”
Maoros gaazed in shock
“You’re a what!?”
“You remember the Lónsogh Industrial Port bombings that happened months ago in Coecria?”
Maoros nodded.
“Well you see, there was some, ‘activity’ happening there. There was a massive black-market cartel that was stationed there smuggling all sorts of shady and illegal items. The cartel was doing exceptionally well and needed a legitimate business to launder the money. They set up an airline since it had high cash-flow, meaning it could all be done quicker. Plans were that the airline would go bankrupt and they would liquidize everything and start over with in a more stable sector of the economy. However, the airline did much better than what they were expecting. The profits from the airline were incomparable with the black-market work, so they decide to cover up the work. They put all the documents, records and remaining items that could be traced in Lónsogh and blew it up. But I got in hours before the explosion. I was able to take the some of the records with me, took a few pictures and videos, and left just before they blew it all up. I didn’t realise it, but all my antics were caught on security cameras.”
Maoros never knew this, of course he didn’t. He thaught he was dreaming.
“H-How did you discover that?”
“I was set up with a sponsorship deal with the airline and saw things I wasn’t supposed to see. When giving me a tour of the facilities, I couldn’t help but notice something off. There was an entire section with some sort of secret entrance in a secluded corner of the bagging area that was slightly opened. Through it, I could see large scale cargo. No bags, just cargo. The airline doesn’t do cargo deliveries. I asked what was that to the man giving me the tour what it was. He said it was just more bagging. He lied. I waited for an opportunity to leave him, and when he started talking to one of his female colleagues, I dashed straight that weird place. What I saw was some pretty illegal cec. Rifles, drugs, fake id, so much stuff that shouldn't be there. All the packaging led to one location: Lónsogh. I got there and snooped around. And that’s where I found the truth. Now they’re coming for me.”
“Which airline is it?”
“Creotos.”
“WHAT?”
“Because they sponsor the Pomachettian soccer team, all their leaders will be here on business trips. And also, I would never get the police to believe me. An internet personality who just happened to stumble across a black-market cartel that just so happens to be one of the largest companies in all of Pomachetti? There’s a guy who was mentioned a lot in the documents I was able to contact with the use of a database I found at the port. I agreed to meet in him in Batellereroi to uncover this mess. He’s another guy the cartel is after. He beat me to it, but never got any evidence. He’s a high ranking investigator that saw that the numbers didn’t add up. He went in, and they kidnapped him. To make it look like he accidentally died, they got a member of a cartel who looked just like him and killed him. And 'the investigator tragically died in a workplace accident’ was the excuse they came up with. But he escaped. The cartel ran him out of Pomachetti. Since he’s legally dead, he would be considered a fraud upon re-entering the country. He has a colleague he’s very close with and they developed a special way of communicating which only they know. I need to get the evidence to him, work his magic, then give it to his guy in Coecria.”

Starting XI for quarter-final vs Tomerion

4-5-1 Attacking
GK - Síemas Tesplannish
LB - Sóuminé Dabhí (C)
CB - Eondríes Chéorchíní
CB - Elester Sottíní
RB - Fíolom Scaillerton
CM - Íerd Papiola
LM - Fíolom Mambhíní
RM - Llebhich Marjeta
CAM - Seorgís Sarcisian
CAM - Eldú Florensí
ST - Níoll Éirpir

by **Sudilia** » Sat Apr 18, 2026 7:49 pm

Baptism of Fire 88
Sudilia
Sponsored by the Multiverse Airline Alliance

These eight nations remaining in the Baptism of Fire have been the cream of the crop of this tournament.
It has been entertaining to see these teams, yet it is unfortunate that four must go home.
Four will march closer to making it towards The Top.

Quarter-Finals Cutoff

Quarter-Finals Results

Quarter-Final Matches

W: Gwarkos (GWK) 1–1 Bharatamandala (BHR) (2–2 AET) (1–3 pen.)
(Lakeside Stadium, Pacharahuall, Dusk)

X: Tomerion (TMR) 4–4 Pomachetti (PCT) (4–4 AET) (3–4 pen.)
(Stadio Giovanni di Pietro, Serlulia, Night)

Y: Maritaine (MRT) 1–0 Aamathyr (THY)
(Grand Manchbury, Manchbury, Night)

Z: Marsonne (MAR) 0–2 The Republic of the United Marble Tribes (RUM)
(Ivan Wellington Stadium, Botes, Dusk)

Semi-Final Matches

SF 1:
Bharatamandala vs Pomachetti
(Stadt Busch, Gorbach, Night)

SF 2:
Maritaine vs The Republic of the United Marble Tribes
(Stade Raphaël Dutoit, Margis, Night)

Semi-Finals RP Prompts
Football: Congratulations! You're going to be in Sudilia for another two more matches! How does the team feel after the victory? How does it feel to be one game away from your first ever International Final? How is the team preparing for the semi-final match? How are the fans reacting to such a moment like this?

Non-Football: Sudilians have a love for TV Shows. Some popular titles includes The Ciprianis, Calm Your Expectations, and Les Gatineau. What are your nation's most popular TV shows? What are they about? How popular are they?

by **Bharatamandala** » Mon Apr 20, 2026 4:16 am

wow. Wasn't expecting that.

"BHARAT TO SEMIS! BHARAT TO SEMIS! STADIUM IN JOY"

The stadium was in a moment of joy as Bharat beat Gwarkos in the penalty shoot out by [BHR] 3 - 1 [GWK]. Although lost, the Bhartiya players congratulated the Gwarkos team for playing till the last. Gwarkos was quite an interesting team, with a lot of focus towards their defense. Gwarkos was actually a very unique team, no kits, not able to have injuries, wow. Within the usual 90 minute timer, it was a 1-1 tie. Then, extra time was added, which made it 2-2. Then, finally penalty shootouts, a 3-1. The slowest match for Bharat in this tournament. The next match, the first semi final, is to be played against Pomachetti, a pretty nice team looking at their matches.

90 MINUTES TIMER GOALS

68 MINUTES INTO MATCH || FIRST GOAL: BHR || SCORED BY: ARAAV ROY
_-_-_-_-_

The first goal of the match was scored by BHR's midfielder Araav Roy. The ball was in control of RLNM, who was approaching the defense line. As he approached the defense, defenders surrounded him and repetitively tried to steal the ball. Making RLNM having to pass to Aditya. As Aditya was sprinting Araav was on the other side. Once defenders got close to Aditya, he passed the ball to Araav, who got close to the goalpost and shot it, scoring a goal.

|

79 MINUTES INTO MATCH || SECOND GOAL: GWK || SCORED BY: LLYWELA BLAIDD
_-_-_-_-_

The second goal of the match was scored by Gwarkos' Llywela Blaid. The ball was in control of Samuel Koshy, who was approaching the defense. As he approached the defense, he was quickly surrounded by Efnysien Kalon, Nisien Kalon, and Gofannon, while Mabon Kalon stole the ball and passed it to Math Kerrig. Kerrig ran across the midfield and passed it to Bran Kalon. Bran sprinted through the Bhartiya defenders like Aryan and Raghav, and shot the ball, scoring a goal.

|

EXTRA TIME GOALS

|

97 MINUTES INTO MATCH || THIRD GOAL: BHR || SCORED BY: ANISH SHARMA
_-_-_-_-_

7 minutes after the referee announced extra time, Anish scored a goal for BHR. The ball was in control of Euroswydd Aur. As RLNM got close to the ball, he tried to pass it to Mabon, but failed as Anish stole the ball. However, multiple defenders tried to block him off, but he somehow got close to the goalpost and shot the ball, scoring a goal.

|

112 MINUTES INTO MATCH || FOURTH GOAL: GWK || SCORED BY: MATH KERRIG
_-_-_-_-_

The ball was in control of Mabon. As RLNM got close to him, he attempted to pass the ball to Math Kerrig, but failed as the ball was stopped mid way by Samuel Koshy. However as Samuel was sprinting, Gwawl Siarkol was somehow able to steal the ball and pass it to Math who had already sprinted forward. Math, although almost had the ball stolen from him multiple times, reached near the goalpost and shot the ball, scoring a goal.

|

Even after the extra time given, the match was still a tie, just a 2-2 now. So it came down to penalties. The first team to shoot was Gwarkos, with their forward Llywela Blaidd. However Llywela failed as Sanjay was able to catch the ball that she had shot. 0-0.

Then, Bharat chose Aryan to shoot, who scored a penalty goal since Kreiddylad couldn't catch the shot. 1-0.

Then Gwarkos got a penalty goal when Bran Kalon shot the ball and Sanjay couldn't catch it and it went into the goalpost. 1 - 1.

Bharat however on their next shot failed as Kreiddylad caught the ball that Raghav had shot. Still 1-1.

Gwarkos also failed due to Math Kerrig's ball being slow enough to be easily catched by Sanjay.

On Bharat's next shot, RLNM was able to score a goal by shooting a ball so fast that Kreiddylad was unable to catch it. 2 - 1

Gwarkos failed on their next shot as Sanjay catched Gwawl Siarkol's ball.

Bharat also failed however since Aditya's shot was caught by Kreiddylad.

But Gwarkos failed on their last shot.

Either way this was gonna mean Bharat's victory, whether it's a goal or not. But, Antony scored a goal on the final shot as Kreiddylad couldn't keep up. The stadium was in joy. Bharat got it's place in the semi-finals. Without a single loss somehow. The next match will decide whether Bharat will play in the finals or not. But either way, reaching even the semis is a big achievement.

Gwarkos: 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
Bharat: 1 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 3

How are you feeling after reaching the semis?

"Is this a question? Happy of course . Although we might not make it to finals, as Ill not make my hopes too high because our next opponent is a really well experienced team, Im happy to have helped to atleast get this team till here. And yeah, Best of Luck Bharat. Jai Bharat Ki!"

- Sanjay Kumar

"Happy, of course? Who would be depressed after winning a quarter final and reaching the semis? Im excited to see what happens next, JAI BHARAT KI!"

- Aditya Verma

"Excited . I've never played an international semi-final, so first time experience? Happy to contribute to the national team, and I hope to do so more! And yeah, Ill see you in Stadt Busch!"

- Aryan Yadav

"SO MORE TRAINING. Nice to see the boys reach this far in the tournament, and Im hoping they reach further. A very slow match today, but it seems everyone will like the semi-final with Pomachetti. "

- Keshav Lal Sharma

And with that, of course.

JAI BHARAT KI! GOOD LUCK!

by **Pomachetti** » Mon Apr 20, 2026 3:10 pm

Lineups:

Pomachetti

4-5-1 Attacking
GK - Síemas Tesplannish
LB - Sóuminé Dabhí (C)
CB - Eondríes Chéorchíní
CB - Elester Sottíní
RB - Fíolom Scaillerton
CM - Íerd Papiola
LM - Fíolom Mambhíní
RM - Llebhich Marjeta
CAM - Seorgís Sarcisian
CAM - Eldú Florensí
ST - Níoll Éirpir

Tomerion
3-5-2 Defensive
line-up recieved by telegram sent by Tomerion
GK - Madison Hilfiger
CB - Benito Carey
CB - Aaliyah Chun
CB - Faith Tennyson
LM - Mustafa Nishiwaki
LM - Yasuo Sandberg
CAM - Chandi Berrabah
RM - Janet Buchanan
RM - Morgan Partakis
CF - Hiromi Utada
CF - Kelis Ben-Gurion

Major Match Happenings:

11th minute - A chip from over the defenders into the box by Chandi Berrabah finds Kelis Ben-Gurion running a line past the of offside line. They catch the ball on the top of their foot, leading to it reaching the top of the net for the first score of the game

23rd minute – A foul by Benito Carey leaves a free kick to be taken by Eldú Florensí. The ball was placed a few metres from the box and the 4 man wall was built by the tallest Tomerian players on the field. The referee blew his whistle. Florensí shot the ball. A dipping shot went over the 4-man wall, and the ball was to difficult to save for Madison Hilfiger. 1 all.

35th minute – Whilst competing for a header in the box, Eondríes Chéorchíní landed heavily on his ankle. He successfully cleared the ball. He landed a little sideways, causing him to land on his right foot a while before his left foot. His right ankle twisted inward. Érúnín Coisteya was subbed on in place for Chéochíní, making her debut at just 18- years-old.

41st minute – Some clever build up play leads to Eldú Florensí receiving the ball from Íerd Papiola. The defence runs back to cover the incoming threat. With Úle Salbhoé running to support right of Florensí, Níoll Éirpir and Seorgís Sarcisian running hard lines into the box, Fíolom Mambhíní lurking inside waiting for a potential clearance, and Papiola offering a lifeline to pass to if the offence goes pear-shaped. Dealing with the overwhelming number of decisions, he picks out a simple through ball cut inside his near defender to Éirpir for an easy tap in.

47th minute – A heroic run by Mustafa Nishiwaki leaves Fíolomín Scaíllierton and Úle Salbhoé in the dust. The two strikers run forward, and they’re able to pick a pass. He pass to Hiromi Utada at the near post, who passes across to their fellow striker to score an open goal.

65th minute – A quick set of passes from Íerd Papiola to Fíolom Mambhíní finds the feet of Soegís Sarcisian in no time. He runs forward, dragging his near defender with him. A short pass to Níoll Éirpir running a parallel line leads to the goal.

77th minute – Some quick build up play coming from an interception by Aaliyah Chun. The ball is passed to Morgan Partakis after cutting in by Janet Buchanan, who passes to Hiromi Utada for an attempt at goal. Utada shoots. But the shot is blocked down by Maoriedheogh. The ball rebounds towards Chandi Berrabah. Seeing the lack of blockage, she attempts a shot from outside the box. She puts all her power on the shot, and the ball sails into the back of the net.

84th minute – After stealing the ball from Morgan Partakis running into the final-third on the wing, Sóuminé Dabhí gives the ball to Fíolom Mambhíní, allowing him to use his pace to run it up the field. Just before cutting inside, he passes to Íerd Papiola. Papiola returns the ball to Mambhíní after cutting in a bit. Instead of keeping the ball, he flicks it back to Seorgís Sarcisian who he sees at the corner of his eye running behind him. Sarcisian finesses the ball from the edge of the box into the top-right corner of the goal.

89th minute – In the dying moments of the game, Morgan Partakis has the ball in the Pomachettian half. Fae passes to Janet Buchanan, who gives it straight back to him with a perfect through ball to beat Dabhí. Buchanan, approaching the goal, cuts it back to Kelis Ben-Gurion, who slots it into the back of the net for the equalizer.

Extra Time:

No scores during extra time. The extra time consisted of extraordinary defensive work by both teams. There were many attacking attempts that came remarkably close to scoring, but the defence shut it down. It was one of the most nerve-wracking moments for everyone watching.

Penalties

Tomerion started the penalties off. The adrenaline in the Stadio Giovanni di Pietro was through the roof.

Tomerion immediately scored with a powerful shot that Tesplannish had no chance of saving. Pomachetti followed suit with Sarcisian nailing his into the bottom left corner after sending Hilfiger the wrong way.

O - - - -
O - - - -

The 2nd shots of each team were saved.

O X - - -
O X - - -

The score was dead equal, and it remained like that in the 3rd round, with both teams scoring with precision.

O X O - -
O X O - -

Once again, in the 4th round there was still no separating Pomachetti and Tomerion. Both teams scored their penalties.

O X O O -
O X O O -

In the 5th round, it was make or break. If one didn’t score and the other did, there would be a winner. Will it be just like the last rounds where Pomachetti played copycat to Tomerion’s scores? Tesplannish was steady in his penalty box. The tension was building up inside him, but he knew he had to stay cool and focus on where the ball went. He went his way with reactions. The ball. Settled on the penalty spot. Yasuo Sandberg stepped up. He shot. The ball went right, and so did Tesplannish. It was saved. The crowd erupted in euphoria. But it wasn’t over yet. Rúmano was the 5th penalty taker for Pomachetti. She went over to the little white dot in front of the goal. The air was cold and bitter. The night, silent. Same with the 55,000 fans that surrounded the pitch. They waited in silent unease to see if this was the moment the semi-finalist was decided. The referee gave the go ahead to attempt the penalty. Elester Rúmano ran to the ball. She shot the ball. The ball travelled through the air like an icy comet. The ball landed in the back of the net. The tens of thousands of Pomachettian fans jumped out of their seats in disbelief and joy. They let out the most defeaning cheer that anyone could here, that filled the silent skies on the Sudilian night. Elster Rúmano ran to the fans, followed by her many teammates on the pitch and on the sidelines.

The celebrations went on all night long.

Reactions back home

Late Night News

Surche Faeréon reports from Cuscro

“Since the start of the Baptims of Fire tournament, massive watch parties have sprung up all across Pomachetti. Here in Cuscro, everywhere is displaying the same sight: the Pomachettian soccer team and the fans that have made the way into the various stadiums in Sudilia. From pubs, restaurants, living rooms, there is no escape from the competition. We are here in Neumh Geobroíl Park in eastern Cuscro city, where a massive screen has been erected in the middle of the park. Today, Pomachetti won the quarter-final against Tomerion in a thrilling penalty shootout. And the noise, was astonishing.”
Cut to the fans’ reactions to the moment Pomachetti won the game. The crowd in the park went berserk.
“Well it was surely and outstanding way to win a game of such magnitude in such an exhilarating way!” - Surche asks some local fans
“Yes, it was just pure magic! So immense, I’ve literally never felt so stressed my entire life!”
“We need a few drinks, hahaha!”
“Just off the back of this performance, I can’t wait to see what we can work up in the semi-final against Bharatamandala. It’s just a great time, the whole nation is united with one common goal, litteraly!”
“Surche Faeréon, reporting from Cuscro City.”

Many content creators have taken to social media to discuss the Baptism of Fire and create entertaining videos.

image made using ChatGPT and editing done by me

With all the talk about watching things, Pomachetti has a thriving and vibrant tv show sector covering all dramas. From action, comedy, horror, true crime, you name it and there’s probably a popular television show in that genre. With that being said, Etheor Tedhg is the highest grossing and longest-lasting tv series. The comedy centred around a priest has given rise to some of the most iconic lines in Pomachettian culture.

Starting XI to face Bharatamandala:

4-5-1 Attacking

GK - Tesplannish
LB - Dabhí (C)
CB - Coisteya
CB - Sottíní
RB - Pergonsí
CM - Papiola
LM - Marjeta
RM - Salbhoé
CAM - Reautí
CAM - Sarcisian
ST - Éirpir

Set piece taker in place of Florensí until subbed on: Salbhoé on freekicks and right corners, Marjeta on left corners

by **Maritaine** » Mon Apr 20, 2026 4:50 pm

Father Stretch My Hands Towards the Final

Approved by the Royal Maritaine Football Federation

We've been on a voyage. A voyage, more importantly, a journey for the Republic of Maritaine, from the days of being a colony of the Natkrian people, and suffering multiple conflicts with Natkr and Jaoaa, and just to mention, the football over the years hasn't exactly been so well. But now today, we finally have a chance to prove ourselves on the battlefield of multiversal football. It definitely isn't much. We're not facing the big and talented nations like Squornshelous, Saint Eleanor, and more, but we've had the chance to be a part of this tournament in Sudilia: the Baptism of Fire. This is our opportunity to finally make our mark.

In terms of the national team, we have officially become a great national team as we have managed to accomplish a current unbeaten record in this tournament with 5 out of 5 wins going to Maritaine. By defeating the Land of the Thyr (Swovacjaaspeal) 1-0, the Royal Tricolors have managed to achieve what many different people thought was impossible for the country to make: a spot in the semi-finals of the Baptism of Fire, a spot of glory at a tournament for all of the up-and-coming footballing nations. The Republic of Maritaine has turned out to no longer being just a team in the tournament, but a genuine contender in winning the tournament. As the squad has to stay in Sudilia for at least two more matches (the semi-finals and either the final or the third-place playoff match), the actual degree of their achievement has finally begun to settle in for the national team players. One win stands between the Republic's 18 million citizens and their first-ever international final in their first-ever international football tournament.

The match against Aamathyr was the hardest and grueling test in the Royal Tricolors' history, as they battled hard with Aamathyr for a spot in the semi-finals. It was a 90-minute battle of which nation could better outdo the other in footballing intelligence, where the primary Diamond system had to convert into a low block system (Park the Bus) for the game's long stretches. The moment that set Maritaine for the game early was in the 41st minute, made by a moment of absolute teamwork and beautiful skills. Alexander Le Pons spotted a gap through the flank of the pitch and launched a ball right through to Benny Sterling. The Nacreous FC right winger didn't even seem to hesitate to hit a unique one-time strike that first clipped the inside of the crossbar and then managed to settle itself inside the net. That singular goal was enough for the Maritaine national team to go back with a win and to send the Swovacjaaspeal right back home to Aamathyr. Not to mention, the Maritaine fans went absolutely crazy.

Inside the dressing room, the feeling was absolutely insane as the national team players celebrated by singing some well-known Maritaine songs like "Marching On to the Way" and even some old-timey songs from the past, most notably The Song of the Fields was sung in unison by the players. There were no wild celebrations (maybe a few from Ignatius Gloss, but that's it) made after the whistle, really only the players were collapsing onto the pitch, kissing and hugging their family members in the crowd, breathing in the fresh air of the Grand Manchbury stadium, and realizing they had finally survived the fight to the semi-finals. Coach David Decius let out a large shout of joy to the squad before immediately calling for the video game machines and ice baths. They were in for a good time. The boys finally feel that they are playing for something that matters way more than any other trophy they could get; they were playing for their very own Republic of Maritaine. They were playing for their very identity. The fire they often joke about in the locker room isn't even a joke anymore; it's a fuel for them, straight in their eyes.

Being one game away from the final has managed to shift the boys' mental state from "happy to compete here," "let's have fun," to "we need to try our best." There is a quiet feeling within the squad, especially prevalent at the training camp. The players aren't particularly looking at all of the sights of Sudilia (although they are quite cool); they are looking forward to awakening the next generation of Maritaine football. The fact that they could finally be the first generation in Maritaine history to bring home a Baptism of Fire title (an international tournament title) has turned the boys into a focused state, together. The motto inside training has changed from the original "Ensemble, boys!" to "Pour l'Histoire" (For History). Maritaine got this.

Preparation for the Republic of the United Marble Tribes has already been underway since the end of the group stage, as Coach David Decius has told the scouting department to be aware of any different team in the knockouts, as you could face anyone in this tournament, at any different stage. The scouting analysts have spent their time looking at United Marble Tribes' 2-0 victory against Marsonne. The Republic of the United Marble Tribes is a very unique type of opponent to face (they are filled with very young talent, including Raja Matusaleh, Enoch Barack, Raymond, etc) with a great defensive structure designed to help prove their newer and less-experienced players for the upcoming World Cup 100. They are a very disciplined and patient team, and they manage to be pretty clinical on their breaks. David Decius has searched to find out that the Yellow Monkeys manage to thrive on frustrated creative teams just like Maritaine, which means that Alexander Le Pons will need to be at his very best to help the midfield find their cracks in their defensive wall.

The Royal Tricolors are ready. The TVs are already turned on in Maritaine. The Song of the Fields is ready to be sung once more. Maritaine, lift up your voices and sing. Rejoice. We are one game from the final. One chance to make history. We are one game away from the greatest moment in our country's footballing history.

Allez, Maritaine! Allez!

by **The Republic of the United Marble Tribes** » Mon Apr 20, 2026 7:35 pm

Matchday RP

Marsonne (MAR) 0–2 The Republic of the United Marble Tribes (RUM)
(Ivan Wellington Stadium, Botes, Dusk)

It was yet another remarkable match, and another excellent win for the Marblelanians.

Before the match, the Yellow ultras packed the stadium and bus entrances, lighting their flames and waving their flags proud. Unfortunately, for the opponents who arrived first, they had a "warm" welcome. The banging and throwing of vegetables on their bus was enough to give them jumpscares, except, it was only the beginning. The ultras literally blocked the entrance and surrounded the bus, holding banners and flames, with the iconic Galatasaray phrase: "Welcome to Hell". Meanwhile, the Marblelanians were greeted with cheers of triumph and bangs of encouragement.

The Mansonnian team came first, so they quickly claimed the larger, and more spacious room. However, it quickly turned into a problem as right above them were the Yellow Monkey fans, who came in two hours early, already hyped, jumping and singing away. The thudding of footsteps above made the players more anxious. The Marblelanians got a smaller, but quieter one, giving them mental peace before the game.

At kickoff, the players exited the tunnel, sang their anthems and prepare to begin the match.

The referee blew his whistle, and another match has begun. The results would determine who would move on... The ultras of both sides roared, giving their players the energy to perform.

The beginning half was rather boring, with some great chances made by both sides. Fans were sitting, standing up, sitting, standing up, all nervous, and excited.

After half-time, the tide seem to change, the Marblelanians made a few quick substitutions, and regained their energy. With quick, confusing, long chips, they distracted the defenders and scored the early goal at the 46th minute. Marbleland took the lead!

Then came another at 70th minute, Richard Peño gave a beautiful cross to Saiful Ahmad. Ahmad passed it to Declan Law and he scored it, putting the ball at the back of the net! The Yellow Monkeys celebrated with joy, while the Marsonne fans were in shock. Some had left the stadium. In return, the Marblelanian fans sang "Is there a firedrill?"

At the 92nd minute, Marsonne earned themselves a crucial penalty, due to a foul by defender Matthew Davidson. It all came down to Kim, the Korean Spider. Could he save the day?

De Fougerolles stepped into the spotlight, could he give his fans some revival? some hope?

De Fougerolles takes de shot... Kim dives left.

Unfortunately, the ball hits the post and reflects. Captain Wilkins quickly cleared the ball, leaving the opposition players a little frustrated. But the win was secured, and Marbleland advanced to the Semis.

Outside, as everyone returned to their hotels, Marblelanians were seen dancing on the streets celebrating their victory.

[Interview 7 (I think)]
[Interivew]: Let's welcome our assistant coach, Ivan Brown!

[Brown]: Thanks, but I gotta go soon, so let's do a quick one.

[Interviewer]:Congratulations! You're going to be in Sudilia for another two more matches! How does the team feel after the victory?

[Brown]: Oh, the boys are in high spirits, in cloud 9. But we do have a training session or two to get the boys prepared both physically and mentally. We know how proud it is to go to the finals.

[Interviewer]: So, how does it feel to be one game away from your first ever International Final?

[Brown]: Really, really, high stakes. I mean, I told my boys, we are both excited and nervous, but at the same time, I told my boys to not underestimate the enemy. Maritaine is a really good team as well, and I hope my boys did rest well, to be prepared for the upcoming match.

[Interivewer]: How is the team preparing for the semi-final match?

[Brown]: We did a few training sessions yesterday, as well as giving sufficient time for the boys to rest. We also prepared them mentally by inviting the ultras to come and scream at top of their lungs. The ultras really give their vibe. Also, we made sure everyone is fit enough in case of any, you know, sudden emergencies.

[Interviewer]:How are the fans reacting to such a moment like this?

[Brown]: Pride, you know, Proud to be Marblelanian. You know, personally, I had never, ever expected us, to be going this far, but now, we are just one step, one step away from the final. I told them, to give their best, do your best, because, your families, your friends, you nation, your people, back at home, are watching you, so make, em', PROUD.

[Interviewer]: Before we go, I wanna ask about Edward Mills, umm, I wonder if he is better now?

[Brown]:He is slightly better now, but the doctor say, he needs a few months to recover from his injuries. So, I just hope, he gets well soonest possible. It is said that he may, unfortunately, miss the World Cup, which is, sad for Chris, as he and Edwards, are like, best buddies.

[Interviewer]: Ok, rest well, Edward. And good luck Yellow Monkeys!

[Brown]: Yeah, thanks!

[LINEUP FOR THE UPCOMING MATCH!!!!
(NEW!!!)

The Marblelanian National Team
"The Yellow Monkeys"

Head Coach: Joey Mulholland
Assistant Head Coach: Ivan Brown

Line up: 3-4-3

Starting XI:
ST: John Leicester
RW: Liam Edwards
LW: Adam Harrison*

CM: Richard Peño*
CM: Richard Wilkins [c]
LM: Jamal Marquez
RM: Cory Cohen*

LB: Matthew Davidson*
CB: Daniel Nottingwood
RB: Joseph King

GK: Kim Choi-Hun*

Substitutes (Subs):

1 Saiful Ahmad (ST)
2 Chris Pratt (ST)
3 Declan Law (RW)
4 Edward Mills (RW/LW)
5 Farid Ariff* (CM)
6 Ezra James Thompson *(CM)
7 Joshua Howards (CM)
8 Gregory Carragher (LM)
9 Simon Hart (RM)
10 Yunus Rahman Sokheil* (RM/RW)
11 Kevin Hughes (RB)
12 Darius-Matthew Hasbel* (RB)
13 Samuel Wright (CB)
14 Zack Wesley (CB)
15 Damien Lias-Naire (LB)
16 Kim Choi-Hun* (GK)

Order for Pens:
1- Richard Wilkins
2- Liam Edwards
3- Jamal Marquez
4- Adam Harrison*
5- John Leicester
6- Richard Peño*
7- Cory Cohen*
8- Joshua Howards
9- Farid Ariff*
10- Simon Hart

Players who are out this round:
RW: Raja Matusaleh
LM: Enoch Barack
CM: Ethan Billings
LB: Raymond Mustard
GK: Ryan Goldbridge
Darren Rottingham (CM)
Aznan Fariz (RM)
Alex Rogers (LB)

by **Sudilia** » Mon Apr 20, 2026 7:43 pm

Baptism of Fire 88
Sudilia
Sponsored by the Multiverse Airline Alliance

We've made it to the Final Four of this amazing edition of the Baptism of Fire.
These four teams have been some of the very best this tournament has had to offer in the past few weeks.
Alas, only two can march onwards to a grand Entrance to the Final in Manchbury.
The other two, must dispute for the bronze medal in Ponkuayrina.
May fortune favor you tonight! May you get closer to your first ever International Title!

Semi Finals Cutoff

Semi Finals Results

SF 1:
Bharatamandala (BHR) 4–5 Pomachetti (PCT)
(Stadt Busch, Gorbach, Night)

SF 2:
Maritaine (MRT) 3–3 The Republic of the United Marble Tribes (RUM) (4–3 AET)
(Stade Raphaël Dutoit, Margis, Night)

3rd Place Match:
Bharatamandala vs The Republic of the United Marble Tribes
(Sudi Arena, Ponkuayrina, Evening)

The 88th Baptism of Fire Final
Pomachetti vs Maritaine
(Grand Manchbury, Manchbury, Night)

Final/3PPO RP Prompts
Football: Congratulations on reaching your first ever International Final! Or, Commiserations' for having to play the Bronze Medal Game. What are the emotions in the team and fans after the match? For the two of you playing for Bronze, does the team feel downcast or do they still feel motivated to get a medal to bring back home? For the finalists, how is your team preparing for the biggest match of their young history? How are the fans preparing as well?

Non-Football: Sudilia is a nation with the full seasons and many biomes throughout the country.
This is mainly being Temperate rainforests and Temperate deciduous forests.
What biomes does your nation have? What is its geography like?

by **The Republic of the United Marble Tribes** » Tue Apr 21, 2026 12:13 am

RP Matchday

Marbleland 3-3 Maritaine
(Pens: 3-4)

Tonight was a match to determine who moves on, the Yellow Monkeys, or the Royal Tricolors

The players exited the tunnel, the atmosphere is tense, not silent, not loud. The fans are watching with the fire of hope in their hearts. The referee blew the whistle to begin the game.

At the 9th minute, the Marblelanians take the early lead, with Wilkins passing to Matthew Davidson, Davidson slide it to Cohen, Cohen gives it to Leicester and Leicester scored a wonder-goal! Beautiful football displayed, not even at the tenth minute, would the Yellows hold their ground.

At the 26th minute, Maritainian defender Marc Glimmer made a long throw to Gloss, Gloss handled the ball skillfully, cutting pass numerous defenders, before assisting Benny Sterling on the Equaliser.

43rd minute, the blues took another opportunity on a corner kick. Mako Drift kicked the ball high in the air, Le Pons held it on his chest, made a beautiful pass to Benny Sterling, and Sterling scored again, leveling the game for Maritaine just before half-time!

Back from a 15 minute break, Kim made a pass, but it accidentally landed at the feet of attacker Benny Sterling. Sterling chipped it to Stallion. Stallion made a remarkable scorpion kick, which shouldn't miss. Impossible to miss. The Korean spider, lept, and the ball somehow, went into his hands. Even Stallion himself was confused. His teammates rushed to hug Kim for his incredible save.

Kim, motivated, made a far throw to Matthew Davidson, Davidson to Peño, Peño glided the ball to Marquez. Marquez rainbow flicked, passed it to Leicester. Leicester to Harrison, and Harrison scored another for Marbleland!!! On the 59th minute, things have changed, and things had been really uncertain during the match, it may continue to be!

After a 30 minutes of missed chances, the Maritaine keeper, Gale Vane, sudden threw a spectacular wonder, throwing the ball over the half-way line, leaving the Marblelanian defence in chaos. Seeing his chance, Sterling rushed through, carried the ball all the way to the penalty box, and scored a fabulous hat-trick!!! Maritaine once again took the lead! The Blues' fans danced with joy, while the Yellow Monkeys seemed to be giving up all hope in any moment.

The referee added a 5-minute extra-time. If they can hold their ground, they would advance to the finals.

But defeating a team, which had came too far from expectations were never easy. Assistant coach, Ivan Brown, made a few quick substitutions, and the players are off. Defender Lias-Naire quickly threw the ball from the sidelines while the opponents were distracted in shuffling their positions. The ball landed perfectly at Hart's feet. Hart made a risky chip, to Harrison it went, Harrison made a quick pass to Declan Law, and Law scored a stunning comeback, just 2 seconds away from the 95th minute!!! The Marblelanians couldn't believe it, some were kneeling on the ground with tears of joy! The ultras went wild, putting off their pyros!

And after a rather boring 30 minutes, it all came down to penalties... who would go to the finals, and who would fight for the bronze?

The players stepped up one by one. Sterling came first with a powerful strike. The fans applauded. Then Wilkins, but he misses! Then Stallion, he missed too. Edwards stepped up, and a great save by Vane! Drift kicked the ball hard, but it disappointingly hit the post. Marquez came, and scored the equaliser, and the Marbles roared like thunder, at least there's some hope now. Le Pons came, GOAL! Harrison stepped up, and the wonderkid never failed to disappoint. Gloss's turn, oh, a slip by Kim, the young spider almost made it, but Gloss secured another for the Royal Tricolors! Leicester made a playful panneka, the keeper was tricked! Moreau came, and once again proved Maritaine are worthy enough to challange the Yellows.

It all came down to Richard Peño, can the Spanish youngster do another favour for Marbleland? Richie stepped up, breathed in, made a quick run, shoots...

Everyone held their breath... it could be any moment now.

AND FATE HAD LANDED ON THE MARITAINIAN SIDE!!! OLD GALE VANE HAD SAVED THE DAY!!! The Maritaine fans, now in tears of unforgettable joy, invaded the pitch to hug the players. Peño held his head, not being able to believe how he missed his shot. But history, is history! Tonight it was decided that Maritaine was worthy enough to carry on to the finals!

And it was full time! The players shook hands and went to meet their respective fans. While the Marblelanian youngsters were quite sad for missing out of the finals, they received loud applauses and encouraging cheers from their ultras.

We believe, the boys had proven to everyone, that no matter how life throw us under the bus, we will eventually succeed. Today, although we may not win the trophy, the torch, but we still have one more try, on at least, winning a medal home, for our proud supporters
~Ivan Brown

[Interview 8]
[Interviewer]: Due to a tight schedule by our team, we will have the time with our opposing player, Benny Sterling! Welcome to the show, Ben!

[Sterling]: Uhh.. thank you for having me.

[Interviewer]: Congratulations for winning man of the match! You did quite a spectacular performance out there!

[Sterling]: Yeah, I mean, your team did pretty well too.

[Interviewer]: Well, your team is going to finals, how is everyone feeling?

[Sterling]: We are so, so, you know, it was a roller coaster of emotions, but now, we feel very, very, umm, very, optimistic, you know, we are close to touching that trophy, we can win it. The fans too, are very excited, and we hope that we would win for them.

[Interviewer]: Thank you for your time! Good luck!

[Sterling]: Thank you!

LINEUP FOR THE UPCOMING MATCH!!!!
(NEW!!!)

The Marblelanian National Team
"The Yellow Monkeys"

Head Coach: Joey Mulholland
Assistant Head Coach: Ivan Brown

Line up: 3-4-3

Starting XI:
ST: John Leicester
RW: Liam Edwards
LW: Adam Harrison*

CM: Richard Peño*
CM: Richard Wilkins [c]
LM: Jamal Marquez
RM: Cory Cohen*

LB: Matthew Davidson*
CB: Daniel Nottingwood
RB: Joseph King

GK: Alex Terrance

Substitutes (Subs):

1 Saiful Ahmad (ST)
2 Chris Pratt (ST)
3 Declan Law (RW)
4 Edward Mills (RW/LW)
5 Farid Ariff* (CM)
6 Ezra James Thompson *(CM)
7 Joshua Howards (CM)
8 Gregory Carragher (LM)
9 Simon Hart (RM)
10 Yunus Rahman Sokheil* (RM/RW)
11 Kevin Hughes (RB)
12 Darius-Matthew Hasbel* (RB)
13 Samuel Wright (CB)
14 Zack Wesley (CB)
15 Damien Lias-Naire (LB)
16 Kim Choi-Hun* (GK)

Order for Pens:
1- Richard Wilkins
2- Liam Edwards
3- Jamal Marquez
4- Adam Harrison*
5- John Leicester
6- Richard Peño*
7- Cory Cohen*
8- Joshua Howards
9- Farid Ariff*
10- Simon Hart

Players who are out this round:
RW: Raja Matusaleh
LM: Enoch Barack
CM: Ethan Billings
LB: Raymond Mustard
GK: Ryan Goldbridge
Darren Rottingham (CM)
Aznan Fariz (RM)
Alex Rogers (LB)

by **Maritaine** » Wed Apr 22, 2026 3:14 pm

Two Birds, One Stone

Approved by the Royal Maritaine Football Federation

Survived. We have done it. We have survived it. Through the beginning of the group stage to the present, to now on the final stage, we never once had a doubt. We have stuck together throughout the run of this tournament, and we will do the same for the final, whether we win or lose. Coach David Decius knows a lot about losing. His whole career, he's been labeled a "loser" whether by the fans, the media, the owner, or even his own players. Every single club he went to, he could never win a trophy. The last time he had a chance to win a trophy in his career was the 1983 FA Maritaine Cup Final against a Liga Deux (second division) club, Abyssia Impact. It was supposed to be an easy win for Nacreous FC, Decius' club at the time, who were second in the division at the time and had a stacked team filled with many of the league's best players. For a team at that time, which was filled with so much success, it was expected by most people that the team could finally fulfill their wishes of winning their first trophy.

David Decius captained the team that day. He was excited to win the first trophy of his senior career, especially when he was doing it with his own boyhood club. The game started well, with Nacreous FC taking control of the game fast and looking like the winning side. However, that all began to set in fast in the 22nd minute when a passing weave set by Decius made a great impact as Luis Marel slipped a perfect pass up to their striker Alan Herhen, as he scored to make the game one to zero for Nacreous FC. Nacreous FC 1-0 Abyssia Impact. The team soon began to dominate once more. By halftime, it was basically felt that the cup was now going to Nacreous FC. Everything changed in the 58th minute, however, when Nacreous went on another counter-attack, and David Decius had the ball in his grasp. Decius made his way around the goalkeeper to leave an open net. With Abyssia's defenders coming right back, he had to make a move. He took the shot and dragged it wide. It should have been 2-0, but at least Nacreous were winning, and the game wasn't over. The game was over, at least for Nacreous FC.

Abyssia Impact soon began to take charge of the game. Their connections began to flow more, with the players soon making many different plays to equalize, and it soon happened in the 71st minute. A long ball was hit right into the box, and everyone immediately began to scatter around. Abyssia Impact took advantage of the chaos through Dario Kess, who moved swiftly past one defender to equalize the game. 1-1. Now, the safety that Nacreous FC had was soon falling away. Nacreous FC gave it their all, but they got nervous and began to lose control of possession of the ball. Their confidence was lost, especially Decius. David Decius tried a pass to his defender, but it was quickly intercepted by Abyssia Impact. Abyssia then launched a quick counter-attack through the left side and sent a low cross right into the box. Tomas Egera jumped right into the air and smashed it right into the top of the net to make it 2-1, Abyssia.

Nacreous thought they had time. They tried everything they could to turn around this upset. In added time, they had one more chance to tie the game. One chance. A corner was quickly taken (OOC: Trent reference), and Decius rose above all of the players... but his header attempt went wide and bounced right out. Then, the whistle blew. Nacreous FC had let the chance slip right out. But for David Decius, it was heartbreak. He was distraught. He let his whole team down multiple times. It wasn't the time that Abyssia surprised everyone and won the final, but it was the year Decius missed his moment.

Speaking about the moment with the national team, he just couldn't take it. "I lost my only chance to prove myself." "It's just done," Decius stated to the players. We can't let this happen again. Not for me. Not for you guys. It's our moment now. The Diamond system had now done more than survive the first few games; it actually seems to now be the ideal tactical system for Maritaine's games. The win over the Republic of the United Marble Tribes in extra time wasn't just football being played; it was like a war being fought in real time, leaving you in heartbreak, happiness, or neither. It definitely left most of the Maritaine citizens in shock. To come through the 3-3 deadlock and manage to find the true Maritaine speak in the last moments of extra time is the ultimate showdown any Maritaine football fan was hoping for. Maritaine has now reached the 88th Baptism of Fire final in their first-ever footballing tournament, and the boys have now realized that the glory of Maritaine cannot be crushed. It is unstoppable.

The game was probably the greatest piece of Maritaine-related thing I've ever seen. And I'm not even from Maritaine originally, I'm from Natkr! The match was a showcase of the talent from each of the five provinces of Maritaine, a celebration of Maritaine football as most of the Liga Un unite together all on one team, even though most of them hate each other during the season. Benny Sterling probably gave the greatest individual performance I've personally ever seen in my life and maybe in the history of Maritaine, getting a hat-trick right for himself on the world's biggest stage that single-handedly destroyed the defense of The Marble Tribes. Every time the Republic of the United Marble Tribes thought they had settled the attack down, Sterling appeared like the grim reaper in the night. He was honestly unstoppable, as he managed to hit flow state, as for what he said in the United Marble Tribes' rival interview. I just wish he could do this more for Nacreous FC, but that's not what we're talking. The best moment of the match was the time Gale Vane threw the ball over the halfway line, and Sterling launched himself quickly to take the ball all the way to the box, and score what might be the best goal of his whole career.

However, the game's story was written by the man who carries Maritaine right on his shoulder, the captain himself, Alexander Le Pons! In the 108th minute, at the beginning of extra time, with barely any rest and the heat of Sudilia hitting down on him and the rest of the squad, Alexander Le Pons dribbled the ball in the center of the pitch. He swiftly glided down the pitch as he tried his hardest to do something for his country. Creating what some might call a Hail Mary, he played a quick one-two with Tyson Stallion, who was filled with energy, before he launched a 20-yard rocket goal right into the top corner. Alexander didn't just score the goal that sent his country to the Baptism of Fire final; he sealed his name as the greatest-ever player of Maritaine football, and maybe even of Maritaine sports.

Inside the dressing room, the setting was filled with exhaustion. I honestly couldn't tell if some of the players were crying, laughing, or dancing. That right there was not a football game; it was basically a war. The length of the war against the United Marble Tribes took a severe physical and mental toll on them and left them drained, yet they were filled with the sight of seeing Maritaine succeed. Coach David Decius was hugging his coaching staff. He was hugging everyone. Ignatius Gloss took a nap on the dressing room floor, for he was tired as he covered a crazy 17 kilometers on the pitch during the game. The team doesn't even feel like a national team anymore, but more like a family that went through a disaster, but is happy they are still together. They aren't even afraid of the foes they may face; they basically walked through death this very day and won.

The fans that have made their way down to Sudilia have turned the cities they go into into another foreign province of Maritaine. The Royal Tricolors' fanbase has managed to climb their fandom over here in Sudilia to over thirty thousand fans, making their way to Manchbury for the final, and the Manchbury police force has even had to open extra spots around the city just to cover up all of the multitude of people singing the Song of the Fields around the city like it was a fight song or something. After the winning goal scored by Alexander Le Pons, the songs sung by the Royal Tricolors' fanbase were so loud and effective that the stadium staff had to tell the fans in the crowd to quiet themselves down. The spirit of the Maritaine crowd was strong and helped the Maritaine national team feel right at home, and it is now something that has managed to shift the fan culture of many different teams during this tournament.

by **Pomachetti** » Wed Apr 22, 2026 4:50 pm

Bharatamandala 4 - 5 Pomachetti

Goals Scored:
Bharatamandala, if you’re unhappy with the scores and stuff please feel free to change it. Just notify me if you do change it so I can change it in my post

5th minute – A lobbed ball by Samuel Koshy to the other side of the pitch finds Anthony Rodriguez. He runs up to the box and passes to Laxminarayanam, who slots the ball into the goal for the first score of the match.

17th minute – A foul in the box results in a penalty for Pomachetti. Seorgís Sarcisian kept a great poker face and set the ball on the spot. He struck it into the left corner without looking at the ball.

31st minute – Araav Roy passes to Aditya Verma. Érúnín Coisteya came up off the line to attempt to disarm him. Verma, sees Laxminarayanam running a slanted line to where the space has appeared. Before Coisteya could get a good challenge on him, he passed to his striker, who placed a well hit strike into the top left corner of the goal.

39th minute – Araav Roy passes a quick ball to Samuel Koshy. Seeing as Papiola was in position to intercept a ball to either Verma or Laxminarayanam, he runs to the defensive line. Anish Sharma runs a line to cut inside, Koshy passes to Sharma, and he’s past the defensive line. A simple shot into the back to the net followed.

45th+1 minute – Papiola sees Sarcisian running a hard line through the defensive line. He smashes a through ball to him, but it’s over hit. Fíolom Mambhíní is able to get to it in the corner of the pitch and quickly crosses it into the box. Ulé Salbhoé reaches the edge of the box in time to power the ball into the goal before halftime. Due to Bharatamandala’s success using the 4-3-3 so far, Aréosto Tacorbhí switches to the 4-4-2 system to take less pressure off of the midfield

55th minute – Salbhoé receives the ball from Pergonsí and runs down the flank. He sees lb watching him, ready to react to whatever he does. Salbhoé passes the ball to a hard-running Eldú Florensí. Florensí is allowed tons of space with beating lb and passes back to Salbhoé, now on his inside. Salbhoé gives one more short pass to Éirpir who strikers the ball into the bottom-right corner.

69th minute – A quick counterattack coming from an interception in defence leaves the majority of the Pomachettian players up front. A long ball from Raghav Thakur finds Aditya Verma. Verma runs up and puts a long through ball onto the subbed Rajendra Singh. The ball is hit a little too hard however, and Síemas Tesplannish is able to make himself larger by approaching the ball and stretching out. He successfully blocks the shot, but it rebounds to Verma, who scores an open goal.

78th minute - Papiola was still constantly being swatted by the extra midfielder. To combat this, Papiola spread it wide to the substitute Tumés Maoriedheogh, who gives it back to him after Papiola ran hard. Seeing him run hard, Tahidul Khan attempted to tackle Papiola. This left Salbhoé open, and Papiola quickly gave the ball to Marjeta straight away, another subbed on player. Marjeta cut a through ball inside to Florensí, who gave it to Sarcisian across the other side of the goal. Sarcisian scored. The score was equal.

90th+5 minute – In the last stages of the game, the ball was in the Pomachettian half. Tesplannish launched the ball up to the box. Sarcisian attempted a shot by the box, but was unable to get a good angle and shot it onto the crossbar. The ball landed to Trough Perúod, who came on for Níoll Éirpir. Perúod had the ball outside the box, but with some clever footwork, he dribbled passed the defenders into enough space just in the box. With only one option, he struck the ball. It went in. The stadium jumped to their feet and erupted in celebration and cheering.

Reactions back home

News at 8
Pomachetti into FInal

“You’re welcome to the eight o’clock news. The major headline today: the Pomachettian National Soccer Team has won the semi-final of the Baptism of Fire 88 in a dramatic victory over Bharatamandala to send Na Lieodí i Virdi to the Grand Manchbury stadium in the capital of Sudilia. We are once again back in the pubs across Pomachetti, this time in Coecria. We are with our Coecria correspondent Foedh Cedhle, who has seen the reactions to the win in a numerous amount of pubs in the Coecrian urban area.”

“It was truly a moment to behold. Perúod’s late winner led to many spilt beers across the Coecrian pubs tonight.”
Cuts to a montage of celebrations in the pubs across Coecria. Beers were flying. Fans were jumping. The screaming of “YEAH!” and clapping thundered all over Coecria.
“The elated yelling of Coecrians came from the moment Fettoan-born Trough Perúod scored a last-minute goal for Pomachetti to win five to four against Bharatamandala. Local barman Pédreog Bruon of Búther Celedh Biér is delighted with the turnout”
“You know, it’s great to see so many passionate people going out of their way to support the lads over in Sudilia with their mates. It’s so inspiring the passion everyone feels at the moment.”
“I assume that business is booming.”
“Yeah, yeah. You’re certainly right it’s great for the business over here!”
“Is it difficult running the bar with such a large crowd?”
“It certainly is, I couldn’t do it without my amazing colleagues here. We’ve been working around the clock to pour everyone pints and intensely stare at the TV!”
“Thank you so much for your time and good luck with running the bar.”
“Thanks you so much! See you!”
“Foedh Cedhle, TVT News, Coecria.”

“Now, thank you Foedh for that analysis. We wish the very best for the national soccer team and I’m sure everyone, including me, will be watching the grand final in a few days’ time. In other news, Ullscuol na dTó have released a study that confirms Pomachettians are being more active and dedicating more time to explore and relax in nature. Pomachetti is a country comprising of jungle, with mountainous terrain around central Pomachetti and famously the island of Tó. In between the mountains and jungles sitting in the perfect altitude are temperate climates. The jungles are home to many magnificent creatures, but environmental agencies are warning adventures to stay safe and be aware of the dangerous plants and animals. The most dangerous of animals still remain in the national wildlife reserve near the centre of the island, but its always better safe than sorry.”

Story: Pub Boys

The day Siusemh Cuper went to Mec Cuoliéon’s resturant and bar, his week was quite literally upside down. You see, Siusemh was a middle-aged office worker with a loving wife and two kids. Nothing out of the ordinary. He worked for Punc, a fast-growing multinational company developing the software for credit card readers. He was one of the programmers and worked in a team of eight people. He was put into the team bout two years ago when he joined Punc after the previous company he worked for liquidised. Since then, members from his team have come and gone, but has mostly stayed the same. The team consists of the stereotypical programmers: the caffeine addict, the neckbeard, the femboy, the furry, just think of a programmer cliché and there has at one point been a person exactly like that in Siusemh’s team. The eight friends always love to go to one of Coecria’s many pubs at least once a week. Most of them also followed the soccer. So when they realised there was a bank holiday on Monday, they all decided to head to Mec Cuoliéon’s to join the many fans at the pub. If it was not for this, despite the extra day off he would still have had a bad week. It was the month where all the bills had to be paid. That as well as the deadlines set by management will cause more stress at work and he will likely to have eat into his time after work where he would relax with his wife and kids.

The bar was packed. It was a traditional pub with that traditional oak wood smell. With stained glass along the front wall, elegant woodwork fixtures decorating everywhere in the bar, plenty of bar stools and booths to allow for people to sit at the table and enjoy their drinks, and best of all, a giant projector that casted the soccer game onto the back wall. The group ordered their drinks. A broad range of beer pale ales, red ales and some cider. Because the pub was so crowded, they were unable to find seats. Despite this, they still were considerably better off than most others, achieving an unobstructed view of the footage by a wall to rest on. Siusemh felt a little guilty for not watching this game with his wife and soccer-loving kids, but his wife gave him the go ahead to be with his mates and promised that he will watch the final with his family. Whether it was the big final or the bronze final.

There was a nerve-racking atmosphere in the pub. When one team scored, there seemed to be a retaliation right after. The game was deadlocked. Going back and forth. By the time of the eightieth minute, everyone had drunk at least two beers. They may have drunk even more but just couldn’t get their eyes off of the game. Even if they lost the game, Siusemh would still be happy with being out with his best friends. He was lucky to have such good friends to help him out, have a laugh with, to be with him when times were tough. He glanced back to all his friends, and took in how blessed he was to be a part of a crew like this. He glanced to all the other fans in the pub. Some shouting profusely at the screen, others enjoying drinks, or chatting amongst themselves. No matter who it was he gazed at, everyone had the nervous expression on their faces. Siusemh took a drink from his glass, and anxiously watched.

A four-all game in the dying minutes in a semi-final of one of the most prestigious competitions in the sporting multiverse Pomachetti will only get one shot at. It’s just poetry. Coming to this stage starting off with a three-nil defeat in the first ever match, to win the quarter-final on penalties, and now a this. Being a Pomachettian in the Baptism of Fire campaign was and is a rollercoaster. But through such intense times, they tried their best for their country. Whether it was the players themselves, the coaches, the logistics, the oh so many fans, everyone played a key role in the success of the sport. And that was what was happening right now. And it would result in a lot of very, very happy Pomachettians.

In the 90+5th minute of the game, the literal last play. Trough Perúod. The wonderkid from Fetto ran the ball past the defenders and into space. He didn’t think twice. He smashed the ball. A curving shot found the back of the net. Everyone went berserk. Everyone was jumping up and down. Their drinks were jumping up in their air from their glasses, and down onto the wooden floor. The yelling seemed like it would be enough to shatter the beautifully made stained glass and pop everyone’s eardrums. The pub turned into one giant mosh pit of green, gold and red. He enthusiastically hugged all his friends, except for his mate that had fainted on the floor from all the stress, or the booze. The woke up after a few seconds and asked:
“Did we win?”
“Yes, Séch. We did win!”

Not going to continue with The Fans story because that’s not the sort of rp suited for a sports rp. I might continue it somewhere else

Starting XI for Final

4-5-1 Attacking
GK - Síemas Tesplannish
LB - Sóuminé Dabhí (C)
CB - Tumés Maoriedheogh
CB - Elester Sottíní
RB - Fierdurche Pergonsí
CDM - Íerd Papiola
LM - Fíolom Mambhíní
RM - Úle Salbhoé
CAM - Seorgís Sarcisian
CAM - Eldú Florensí
ST - Níoll Éirpir

by **Sudilia** » Wed Apr 22, 2026 7:03 pm

Baptism of Fire 88
Sudilia
Sponsored by the Multiverse Airline Alliance

It's been a wonderful few weeks of fantastic football, exciting matches, plenty of goals, drama, and memories.
We've made it to our Bronze Medal match, as well as the 88th Baptism of Fire Final.
Another newcomer will have their name etched in Fire as a new champion, and enter the World Cup Qualifiers with needed momentum.
Let's finally see who the Multiverse will be saying Congratulation to.

Final/3PPO Cutoff

3rd Place Match:
Bharatamandala (BHR) 2–3 The Republic of the United Marble Tribes (RUM)
(Sudi Arena, Ponkuayrina, Evening)

The 88th Baptism of Fire Final

(Grand Manchbury, Manchbury, Night)

A big congratulations for the Champion and commiserations to our Runner-Up, as well as to our losing Semi-Finalists.
And a big thank you to all the participants in making this a historic and entertaining Baptism of Fire!

Baptism of Fire 88- EVERYTHING THREAD

Baptism of Fire 88- EVERYTHING THREAD

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