IAC 26 - EDSMONTIK/CRPOSTRAN - EVERYTHING THREAD

[Edsmontik]

OOC: Lionsroar's RP was counted.

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✶Quarterfinals✶

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TOP LEFT

Drawkland 3-3 Sel Appa (4-3 AET)
@Touve Suberarenae, EDS

BOTTOM LEFT

Crpostran 3-3 Rovenza (4-4 AET) (3-2 pen.)
@Stadio Della Florentina, CRN

TOP RIGHT

Edsmontik 2-1 Lionsroar
@Sauftunderarena, EDS
Scorinated by Banija

BOTTOM RIGHT

Saterun 0-0 HUElavia (0-1 AET)
@aurell Stadium, CRN

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✶Semifinals✶
LEFT SIDE
Drawkland v. Crpostran
@Vaanstross-Keisar, EDS

RIGHT SIDE
Edsmontik v. HUElavia
@Bellafonte Multi-Purpose Stadium, CRN

[Lionsroar]

Welcome to the Sports World of Großlöwenburg!
a proud germanic nation on the RP Map of Valsora in The East Pacific
See the roster here: viewtopic.php?p=43805500#p43805500
See the introduction here: viewtopic.php?p=43812759#p43812759
MD1: viewtopic.php?p=43817929#p43817929
MD2: viewtopic.php?p=43821921#p43821921
MD3: viewtopic.php?p=43827056#p43827056
Ro32: viewtopic.php?p=43831157#p43831157
Ro16: this post

>Großlöwenburg<

Round of 32: "Das Wunder von Neurejn (The Wonder)"
Reçueçn 0 - 0 Großlöwenburg 
0 - 1 a.e.t

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Das Wunder von Neurejn
It has happened. It has actually happened. Unbelievable. Historic. Unique. A dream come true. Löwenburg has cleared its biggest hurdle in international football to date. The underdog has toppled the giant. Löwenburg defeats Reçueçn in extra time. What a match! What an atmosphere! What a moment! Löwenburg, a nation of football fanatics, dug deep into its fighting spirit and knocked out the mighty, the gigantic reigning tournament champion. Ice-cold, like a cold-blooded killer. But let’s start from the beginning.

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In Saufheine, Trosi - PreMatch
Dulle looks around. Snow still blankets this beautiful city. The Löwenburg Christmas season is over, but a little quiet reflection never hurts. After... well, those wild days in Neurejn. What an evening, what a night. The Löwenburg fans really partied right to the very end. Dulle grins at Itzel. "I have to be honest... I was skeptical at first. I mean, the international scene was never really our thing. We’ve hardly played internationally on Valsora, but now? It’s got something special about it. It makes you a bit proud of us, too." Itzel nods. Löwenburg is incredibly decentralized, a union of diverse confederal entities united under the mantle of the monarchy. Regional identity is hugely important in Löwenburg and lies at the very heart of how people identify themselves. Naturally, this extends to the football clubs. Membership in your local, historic club is practically considered a must; that’s exactly how Dulle and Itzel became fans, even Ultras, of Legio Löwenburg.

Ultra culture in general, is switching right now. Its focused primarily on domestic competition. Regular attendance at home and away matches is a must. Unlike in most nations, democratic membership and the associated right to have a say in club affairs are paramount in Löwenburg, taking precedence over the major corporations and big money that characterize the modern football world so many despise. Löwenburg stands for tradition, tradition coupled with genuine success, and, as Valsora’s leading football nation, for influence and profit. This success is driven largely by the fans, and the Ultras above all. In the international arena, it really is just business, far removed from the classic Löwenburg style. Yet, it holds a certain allure; after all, the national sport fosters shared enjoyment and experiences on the international stage. Never before, not even since the long civil war, have the confederate entities been so closely united. And the World Cup hasn't even started yet. True to form, Löwenburg has been swept up in the fervor of international football. Starting something new ...

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The Opponent and Game
Löwenburg faces the competition's reigning champions, a Herculean task, yet not an impossible one. After all, Löwenburg has already pulled off several upsets on its long journey through this tournament, including victories over the two teams ranked 25th and 5th ranked team. Now, the team ranked 2nd stands in the path of the ambitious Lions. Regardless of one's stance on the national team's recent results, this is an incredibly tough challenge. We wish everyone the very best!

Großlöwenburg
(4-2-3-1)
Slightly changed from the match against The Golden Harp, Arklanda and Edsmontik. Same as from Reçueçn. Ludwig von den Linden does not start first. He sits out after exhaustion from the latest matches, though is probably going to get subbed in later on. 
==================================================
                      [9]
            Johannes Anton Lab. 
           (Ludwig von den Linden)

                      [10]
                 Vincze v. Tibor
                 (Martin Balderu)

  [15]                                  [11]
Johannes Franzisk.                Georg Christopher
  (Jan Alcove)                  (Ludwig Western-Ho.)

              [6]             [18]
        Willi Zanzokavic  Stefan Ziegler
     (Samuel v. Lerida-B.) (Norbert Wilhelm-Mar.)


  [2]          [3]            [21]          [17]
Moritz Heiß  Victor v. Meine  Harold v. W.  Niklas Weise
(E. Ballester) (R. Dominik)   (F. v. Singen) (L. v. Lautern)


                      [1]
              Ingen-Liechtenstein
             (Philipp von Glauben.)
==================================================

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In the stadium

'1
The ball rolls.

'4
Reçueçn immediately seizes posession.

'13
But so far the defense holds. As much as Reçueçn tries for an early goal, it doesn't work out yet. Meine blocking everything in his path.

'20
But the onslaught continues. Reçueçn continues to fight step for step to bring the stupid ball into the box.

'25
And that slowly but surely starts to show some signs of success. Löwenburg, a team of veterans having played most matches, except Ludwig, currently on the bench, gets tired easily. Especially in such an onslaught. But the last and final step for Reçueçn misses so far. Except for a few shots and necessary safes from Liechtenstein, nothing more occurs yet.

'31
Löwenburg starts with their first counter attack, having been pinned into their box way too long, trying to seize some momentum. But the sites don't really work that well right now, Löwenburg tries a lot to stop the flow of Reçueçn through fouls and consequently receives two yellow cards.

'35
Reçueçn continues to push, this time trying more strongly through the center spots. But nothing happens yet.

'44
A first boring half so far.

HALFTIME
Reçueçn definitely with more posession and better and more chances, but not being able to convert them into something sucessful yet. Löwenburg needs to to continue to fight the onslaught, starting to pile for an even more defensive style than currently.

'52
Which also starts to show first signs. As much as Reçueçn is still pressing, they also start to tire out more.

'56
Which is immediately seized as a chance for Löwenburg. Ziegler takes on the ball to the midfield, passing to Zanzokavic over to Franzisk. Who moves quickly to the end of the pitch, bringing the ball into the middle. But Labrador does not manage to connect. But perhaps this is the way for Löwenburg to fight?

'58
Seemingly, same trend but different side now. Christopher brings it, Labrador lets it fall back but Tibor is not able to convert it.

'59
Set piece time for Löwenburg. A corner kick. As always, the ball is not passed shortly but lengthy into the head-ball strong team. For that Ludwig was personally switched in. He is always the target person. The ball falls to the keeper who shoots it out of the box again.

'67
And now its Löwenburgs time to worry again, as they are getting boxed in once more.

'69
Reçueçn trying once more from the center, hits only the cross bar. That definitely made many fans gulp.

'74
But now the match returns to the same old principle. Opponent attac, Löwenburg defend.

'77
Interrupted by Löwenburg chances, surging out from their defensive position. This time Ziegler tries it on his own, dribbling through five, but messing up the shot.

'84
Immediately getting pushed back into the defensive again.

'90 +3
Last chance for Rec. Unsurprising shot, Liechtenstein has it safe.

EXTRA TIME

'91
The extra time starts. For 90 minutes, Rec majorily played against the defensive bulwark of Löwenburg, not being able to bring a goal in. Just as the same, Löwenburg didn't manage to score a goal, even with super joker Ludwig in. But its a situation Löwenburg knows. Mentality vs. Mentality. All the veterans are used to much play time, so after a short and fresh break, it goes into extra time.

'100
A similar picture awaits. Rec tries to use their last boost of energy to finally bring this stupid ball over the line.

'105
First half is over, Löwenburg with one shot and Rec with 5.

EXTRA TIME BREAK

'105
It continues.

'114
Rec has now finally played themselves tired. Its time for Löwenburg to once again host a counter attack. Weise plays to Zanzokavic, who immediately relays it to the wings again. Franzisk. takes the ball. He turns and sprints down the line, but draws the back from the defender at the end again. He passes back. The ball once again continues to the middle, where its almost lost. But Zanzokavic picks it up, peeking it through the spot of Franzisk. Who now, with space, continues to sprint to the full line again, catching the ball and this time not drawing it back, flings it into the middle. Where, majestically as so often this tournament, Ludwig rises up. He heads and ... bong, cross bar. The meatl sounds echoes through his head. Cross bar. No goal. A quadrillion xgoal chance. But it flings back, a defender failing to clear. It lands at the front of Tibor who, cold-hearted, brutally shoots it into a corner. GOAAAAAL FOR LÖWENBURG!

'120
The historic moment has arrived. The one short moment, where the entire match is turned around. The match is over, the referees whistle not heard over the roar of the Lionsroar (creative I know) fans.

[Drawkland]

“You’ve condemned another to your fate?” Meliauden echoed her daughter’s words from a moment prior.

In all possibility, yes. Vimaracav responded bitterly. It was clear that she wasn’t going to try speaking with her atrophied vocal chords just yet. There may still be time, but I doubt it.

“Well, let’s start with getting you out of here.” Iarocav was kneeling in the goop that used to fill the tank that held Vimaracav captive. “Do you think you could stand?”

Maybe. Vimaracav carefully flexed her legs. That gel was difficult to move in by design. I tried to keep my muscles from losing their strength, but I haven’t physically walked in … a very long time.

“I’ve got you, then.” Iarocav leaned over, pulling Vimaracav up from her sitting position to stand. Meliauden came from the other side to brace her.

Vimaracav tentatively lessened her grip on her parents’ shoulders to try and stand on her own. She shook her head and retightened her hold. My bones aren’t used to this type of strain anymore. I suppose I’ll have to work that out too.

“Your limb muscles seem strong,” Meliauden said, eyeing her daughter’s arms and legs. “But without any consistent resistance your bones likely weakened.”

“Our immortal healing probably kept your frame from shattering, but it can only do so much if your life isn’t fully endangered by the damage,” Iarocav agreed. He started the trio down the exit tunnel in a sort of six-legged race formation. “We’ll help get you out of here. We can figure out the physiological difficulties along the way.”

The gel was mostly meant to keep me from building up enough momentum to break the tank, Vimaracav explained as she fake-walked alongside her parents. Moving in it was extremely difficult, but I slowly developed enough strength to pivot and look around. That was mostly to keep myself sane. The other purpose was to keep me fed and fueled without needing to give me real food. Yet another element of the torture.

“You don’t have to talk about this,” Meliauden said gently. Whether that would be for Vimaracav’s benefit or her own was unclear.

You’re right. We’ll have plenty of time to talk it over once we’re out.

The trio approached the bend in the tunnel. They rounded it, revealing the jagged opening created by starship fire. Vimaracav choked out a sob. It was the first time she’d seen natural light in a very long time.

Slowly but surely, the Drawkionels dragged Vimaracav carefully through the narrow cave corridor, until they finally came through the opening and out into the open air. It was sunset on whatever far-flung planet they were standing upon. The land’s colors were dull, with the scrubby yellow-green vegetation almost blending in with the bland soil. The ocean had darkened into an indigo shade that obscured itself. Even the sundown colors stretching across the sky were uninspiring compared to the average sunset on Sonnel, but Vimaracav teared up all the same.

This is the most color I’ve seen in a thousand years, her mental voice said quietly. After a long moment to appreciate the vista, she turned her head to where the Drawkionels’ ship was parked. And is that your ‘ship’?!

“Yes,” Iarocav said, grinning despite himself. “A starship. As I said, a lot of things have changed. Excuse me while I prepare it.”

Iarocav took the cannon from Meliauden’s grasp and went up to the ship. He opened the main boarding hatch and grabbed supplies as needed before heading to the pilot’s seat to start up the engines. Meanwhile, Meliauden slowly carried Vimaracav to ship herself.

“Huuuuhm. Hmmmmuh. Puh. Buh. Woe.” Vimaracav grunted to herself.

“Trying to get yourself warmed up?” Meliauden smiled as they approached the boarding steps.

Have to start sometime, Vimaracav replied with her mental voice. She smiled despite herself.

Within a few minutes, Iarocav had the ship packed and ready to go. Meliauden helped Vimaracav get settled in a reclined seat at the back of the main cabin, and the Drawkians prepared for liftoff.

This almost looks like an airship cabin, Vimaracav noted from her seat. She was looking around the narrow but luxurious ship with a curious glance. Beyond whatever new devices you have scattered around.

“Some things never change.” Iarocav turned around in his seat to look at his daughter with a smile. “We’re about to lift off. Make sure you’re buckled.”

And with that, Iarocav fired the ship’s engines and slowly levitated off the ground. He opened the throttle, and the ship flew far, far away from that terrible mountain.

—

Iarocav explained that the journey back would take months. That was after he’d spent the greater part of two hours speedrunning an explanation on how Drawkland had advanced in transportation technology so much that they were flying through space. When Vimaracav was taken, the airplane was still in its infancy. Dirigibles were the only air travel to speak of, and while Drawkland had quite advanced steam technology, it was still a far cry from the digital and holographic technology on their starship alone.

You said this journey took months to get here, Vimaracav repeated. You didn’t think to bring a voidwalker with you?

“We feared magic defenses and roadblocks from Zarkose,” Meliauden replied. “We thought that a physical and technological approach might take him by surprise, bypass his planning, and give us an advantage. I suppose we were fortunate that he wasn’t home at all, but it certainly helped.”

Fortunate, Vimaracav nodded. She developed a pained expression on her face.

“Vimara,” Iarocav said with a worried look. “What were you saying earlier about condemning another to your fate?”

Oh, that. The truth is … Vimaracav hesitated. She avoided eye contact with either of her parents, instead looking behind them through the ship viewport at the endless expanse of space. I knew Zarkose would be leaving for an extended period of time. That’s why I felt like I could send my message to you. To leave, he had to open a gap in the arcane obscuring field which surrounded our planet. I could punch the message through that hole, but he only had it open long enough for me to send a single word.

“‘Dad,’” Iarocav quoted. His dream wasn’t just a coincidence, the message was real. “But how did you send that message at all? Kanyo tracked it and said it was sent straight through the firmament, by no known magic courier method. Only the gods could send a message so directly.”

Zarkose has done exactly what he was planning to do. He wanted to use me as a battery, a conduit of massive arcane power. Once my abilities became great enough, he could create a spell which consumes me to power his ascent to minor godhood. Then all his plans of destruction could be realized.

“You said he left.” Meliauden said, brows furrowed. “And by the sound of it, long enough that you felt safe sending a message to try and lead us back to you. Why?”

Alone, I’m not powerful enough. Vimaracav twisted her lip in disgust. He put me through daily exercises, flexing my power and developing my skills continuously. That was another purpose of the gel: insulation. It allowed me to channel my power without destroying anything around me. We know that magic power grows exponentially for immortals that develop their arcane skills with intent. But there comes a point where the growth nearly plateaus. I still developed, but at an infinitesimal pace.

“Logarithmic,” Iarocav suggested. He and Meliauden were putting the pieces together.

He could one day achieve his goals, but the universe might nearly be out of time. He grew impatient.

“He needed another conduit.” Meliauden said darkly.

Yes. After his success with me, he knew that a child of two immortals would be the quickest to reach the level of power he needed. And if he could find one still in childhood, it could save him more effort in … containment measures.

Iarocav and Meliauden gave each other a look. Now everything made sense. “We know of an immortal child born, perhaps a year ago at this point. Did he know?” Meliauden asked.

Yes. Yes, we knew. Vimaracav’s mental voice sounded miserable. Once he realized that he’d need a second conduit, he searched tirelessly. He forced me to use my power to survey every dimension. Even with your efforts, Dad, new immortals are such a rarity. We found a few, but many were on far-flung worlds that Zarkose had no knowledge of. It would be difficult to infiltrate them. But then …

“You found one on Sonnel.” Iarocav felt his stomach drop. “He would relish the chance to torment us further.”

So what did I do? Vimaracav spoke mentally still, but a physical moan of distress rumbled from her throat. I pulled Sonnel’s greatest protectors away, for my benefit. For so long, I told myself that the torture and pain I experienced were noble deeds. At least I could handle it. At least I was saving anyone else from that horrific fate. But when I finally had the chance to stand by that thinking, I crumbled. I invited you here, and left that poor child, whoever it is, vulnerable.

“Do not blame yourself.” Iarocav said quickly. “When I decided to chase your message, I figured there was a chance it wasn’t truly from you. Perhaps bait of some sort. We’ve made the necessary precautions. There’s nothing to worry about.”

Nothing? Nothing at all?

“Not to repeat this for the twentieth time, but our world has changed greatly. Zarkose will find it much more difficult to waltz into Drawkland and come out with an immortal child.” Meliauden replied. “Not just from the defenses we’ve assembled, but the structure of the world itself. He will be a fish out of water.”

And the parents? Do they know what could happen? Are they powerful enough to fight back if Zarkose comes knocking? Vimaracav raised a brow challengingly.

“Well …” Iarocav looked at Meliauden, then back at Vimaracav. “That answer is complicated.”

[Sel Appa]

Turtles blocked by Drawkland Drawked AGAIN in Extra Time Thriller

IAC 26 Post Quarterfinals

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TOUVE, Edsmontik—A match, rather, a rematch for the ages. For the second time in a row, Sel Appa faced Drawkland in an IAC knockout and lost by a goal in extra time. These two titans have struggled to settle their differences in ninety minutes. Sel Appa themselves have come a long way at the Independents from ongoing disappointment in the World Cup qualifiers. The teams debut in the 23rd edition led to a 1-1-2 result with only two goals scored and six conceded. Improvements were minimal the next time when the late FFSA president Gérard Duceppe took over coaching duties after firing Marek Löwy. The team went 2-0-2 and 6 to 6 for that run. The tide finally turned after the tragic assassination of Duceppe following Sel Appas third failed qualification to the World Cup. The FFSA Board appointed Royal Fizroe owner and general manager Rockwell Bates, who brought along his well-loved coach, Walter Daviande. The latter took the team all the way to the semifinals in an unexpected run from 34th place in the IAC. They ultimately fell to Reçueçn and then Drawkland in the third place match.

While the last meetup saw Drawkland score first with a late Sel Appa equalizer, this time it was the Turtles who put one on the board first when Fuego Fernandez did what he does best in the 27th minute. The match was silent until two minutes into added time when Antonio Rodriguez broke thru the Drawkian defense to put Sel Appa ahead by two. The whistle blew leaving a peppy blue-shirt side with a 2-0 lead.

But it was not to last. The Drawkians managed to score just six minutes into the second half, and then again after ten minutes, the equalizer. Momentum shifted fast and the Turtles tightened up their defense to regroup. They held the Kick Corps off for most of the remaining time of the second half. But, the latter managed to crash the Sel Appan defenses a third time and finally take the lead at the 85th minute. Hope left the stadium, and the country. However, in the 90th minute, Antonio Rodriguez found the Drawkians slipping and manage to slot a goal past the keeper for another equalizer, and was able to force extra time.

The first half of it saw uneventful play the entire time, but the second half was more lively. Earl MacCollins thought he put the Turtles back ahead, but was ruled offside. Arguing from the players resulted in the referee threatening a yellow card, but the bright plastic remained in his pocket. Ultimately, the Kick Corps was able to capitalize on this disappointment by putting away the fourth and final goal at 113 minutes. At that point, the team locked down their defenses and quickly shut down Sel Appas attempts to score. The final whistle settled a wild match at 4-3, and brought the Turtles tenacious time on the Karma continent to an end.

In the postmatch presser, FFSA president Rockwell Bates said that Daviande has his "full confidence" to continue at the helm of the team. "I am more than impressed with Wally." Bates went on, "He is doing all of the right things." Meanwhile, the coach himself said the team worked hard and has shown clear improvement, only having the misfortune to play against Drawkland. But, he pointed out, they took the match to extra time and strained their opponent to the end. Both expressed optimism in a better qualification run for the 102nd World Cup. Bates would not answer questions about hosting in the next cycle, saying "you'll have to wait and see".

Of the 16 goals scored in this run, half were in the last two matches. Seven of the nine conceded were also in the same two bluster matches, marking a sharp change in velocity of play. The Turtles seem on the precipice of the final, only held off by an unlucky matchup. With this, the end of the international season, the Turtles return home to their domestic teams, starting with the Premier League Classic as Anila City FC take on the Nemnen Turtles at Grand Archduke Kirby I Stadium.

Comments

WHAT A ******* LET DOWN. WE SHOULD ******* **** DRUCKLAND
shabadee -- 9 minutes ago
Recommend (2)

A great run really, cant complain. Better luck next time, boys
merc -- 16 minutes ago
Recommend (24)

This team is not far from winning. We just need to get a better bracket.
kwasmo -- 25 minutes ago
Recommend (49)

[HUElavia]

QF:
Saterun 0-1 aet HUElavia
(Serra 106')
aurell Stadium, Port Mohan, Crpostran

SUPERSTAR SERRA!

Serra sends HUElavia to their 10th Semi-Finals thanks to her strike in extra time against Saterun!

HUElavia returned once again to the Quarter-Finals, after dispatching Auprussia 3-0 in a dominating performance. HUElavia returned back to Port Mohan to play at aurell Stadium against Saterun, who came off taking down Indusse in the Round-of-16. A heavyweight battle between two teams who last met four years ago in Indusse, where Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos came out victorious in a 3-1 penalty shootout win in the Round-of-16. Four years on, these two meet again in the most enticing matchup of the round. In a sold out crowd at aurell Stadium in Port Mohan, the third and last time HUElavia would play at in this IAC, it was 50/50 in terms of crowd support for both teams. Both teams came out with their A-Team, knowing that a spot in the Final Four of the Indies was on the line.

The match saw HUElavia come out looking to control the match and put pressure on Saterun. Pinning them more and more towards their third of the pitch and their box. Shots would be taken by Serra, Arruda and Assunção, who would be met with blocks from the Sateryun defense and the occasional saves from Bohler. Despite plenty of great plays set up by Gavicaechebarria and Kaba, the front line just couldn't get a strong enough shot to rip past Bohler to open the scoreline. In the meanwhile, Saterun were being given no breathing room, not even with a chance to get a shot on target, let alone a single shot. Sure, some passes would try to go to the center of the box, only to be cleared away to safety or towards a corner kick. Time ticked along, being a very tense match where Saterun was uncharacteristically defensive, fighting for their lives against a relentless HUElavia who continued to put pressure, shot after shot, trying to get that opening goal. Substitutions were made during the late 2nd half, with both teams needing fresh legs to possibly deal with extra time and maybe a penalty shootout. No dice at all in regulation, as the last Quarter-Final of the round was going to extra time, the 3rd of the round, given the two the day before also went into the extra 30 minutes.

HUElavia pushed more and more, with Serra, Di Natale (in for Arruda) and Canales (in for Assunção) were taking shots they received from Valdovinos (in for Gavicaechebarria) and Menéndez (in for Kaba) making the passes. Eventually, in the 106th minute, well into extra time, Sartori sent a pass to España, who ran with the ball, being covered by De Santiago (in for dos Blaros), deciding to send a cross into the box, where Saez pushes Di Natale, who jumped up to head the ball down still in play, with Bohler trying to reach Di Natale to get the ball, only to leave the goal unmarked, for Serra to appear all open and alone, blasting the shot into the roof of the goal, making it 0-1. The HUElavian crowd erupted in joy and delirium, jumping around in celebration to make the stadium rumble, while Serra did The Cross and kneeled to the corner flag, while her teammates and the bench cleared out to mob her in joy and celebration. Saterun began to attack, with shots being taken by Ibañez and Schlimme (in for Vivić), but getting blocked by Morterero, who was finally getting her first real work in the match, making her saves. Despite chances being taken by Saterun, Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos would park the bus, just defending to hold on to dear life with the lead. After 4 minutes off additional time and blocking shots, the referee blew their whistle and relief came upon the HUElavians, as they returned to their 10th Semi-Final.

All the other matches were dramatic results, in what many in the multiverse call Absolute Cinema for how good the results were. Drawkland defeated Sel Appa 4-3 in extra time (3-3 draw after regulation). Co-hosts Crpostran defeated the Cinderella run of Rovenza 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the game ended 4-4 (3-3 after regulation). Co-host Edsmontik took down the other Cinderella run of Lionsroar 2-1 in regulation. Drawkland, the No. 1 ranked team in the current rankings and all-time rankings vs the No. 16 co-host in Crpostran in one Semi-Final. Co-host and No. 5 Edsmontik vs No. 4 and the No. 2 all time ranked team in HUElavia in the other semi-final. Coach Narita was quoted saying "I'm proud of this team for the persistence and resilience they had today. I'd say this was our best game yet, despite the scoreline. Serra was the hero again for the team, she's been so amazing in this tournament and I'm grateful she's playing with us. Monterero was great when the shots started getting to her. The backline was great once more, making those blocks to take off the load from Monterero. And the midfield, especially with Sartori playing through the entire match making crucial tackles and passes to get attacks going was fantastic. We have a very tough semi-final against Edsmontik, which we're fortunate it's being played in Crpostran and not in their country. We have plenty to train and study in the coming days to prepare for the match. We hope to see plenty of HUElavians in the stands as always, given they've been very loud in this tournament. They've really made it feel like home and we hope to give them the excitement to be in yet another IAC Final." Due to the 1-32 seeding bracket, Drawkland vs Crpostran will be played on Vaanstross-Keisar (88,550) in Woodhill, Edsmontik while Edsmontik vs HUElavia will be played at Bellafonte Multi-Purpose Stadium (60,000) in Bellafonte, Crpostran. Awaiting the winners is a chance to be at The Touve Suberarenae in Touve, the capital of Edsmontik. There is no easy match remaining. Destiny beckons for all four opponents, all worthy semi-finalists who have earned their right to be among the four best of the Indies. But only two will have the opportunity to play for the Independent Associations Cup. Here's to what can be yet another historic advance to the IAC Final.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

[Crpostran]

[*]All images used were from the web, except for the players celebrating on page 3 of the newspaper. That particular image was taken from the web and morphed with AI to have Crpostranian kits. Meme was created with imgflip. Wishing all semi-finalists, the best of luck.

[Edsmontik]

The player image in the video thumbnail was modified by AI, however the scoreline graphic and video descriptions were man-made.

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Commenators - Jon Berdrusse, Recha Vasskold

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POST MATCH COMMENTARY
JB - Well, this has been quite the game, has it?

RV - For sure, revenge completed and all of that. It's not something you normally see with Edsmontik. They lost to Tanirinthia in the last World Cup trying to get revenge after losing the third place game in World Cup 98.

JB - Let's talk about the most important stuff, the crazy two penalty saves by Sabmar Lankiv.

RV - That was phenomenal from him. Ystermakt giving away those two penalties, didn't he?

JB - Yep, those fouls got him a red card.

RV - And then both shots taken by von den Linden were caught by Lankiv. Wild, and that's an understatement.

JB - I don't think anybody expected that at all. Two penalties, both could have won Lowenburg the game. I'm surprised that the same Lankiv that conceded four against this team at the end of the group stage managed to do all of this work today. Don't forget the rest of the saves we saw, that one during the corner kick where he just flopped it over the bar, just amazing.

RV - I know. I'm surprised that Emprijaal are keeping him, because he's fit for a destiny outside of Edsmontik.

JB - Well, they've already transfer listed Javarqa and Jervanois, who both also performed amazing today. And they can't just lose 90% of their defense.

RV - True.

JB - What's the next thing? The goals?

RV - Yeah, Stuero's opener is first on this list. A 16th minute goal and it looked like the game was already over. he just hit that trivela with such finesse that it caught everyone off guard. The Burgish were just stunned for the rest of the first half. Barely any successful attacks.

JB - Well, that's what confidence does to one.

RV - The next goal was the equalizer, but before that we should get to Ystermakt's red card, shouldn't we?

JB - We did already mention it, but basically, two bad tackles and two yellows. He's just been playing poorly today. Disappointed with him. Luckily though, Lankiv predicted right twice.

RV - And with only ten men, the Eagles would concede anyway, even if the penalty was saved. von den Linden had to have his moment. It was a beautiful goal though, a nice shot into the top corner.

JB - But of course, Edsmontik ruin their moment just eight minutes later with a SCREAMER from Utravak. Just wild taking that chance like that, but if it goes in, it goes in. Great pass to set it up by Maartin Stuero. from there, Lowenburg played very well to try and equalize, but they just couldn't break through.

RV - Now they're guaranteed two more games, one against HUElavia, and one in either the third place playoff, or the final. Let's see though.

JB - Do you realize? We could have a Karmic derby.

RV - Oh, that actually sounds great, I didn't notice that. So the same thing would have to happen to Crpostran and Edsmontik in the semifinals. That's nice to know. probably might be one of the biggest matches if it is the final. One Karmic brother goes through to win silverware.

JB - Indeed.

---

EDSMONTIK 2-1 LOWENBURG
Sauftunderarena, EDS
Goals
1-0 - M. Stuero (V. Jervanois) (16')
1-1 - L. von den Linden (G. Christopher) (72')
2-1 - S. Utravak (M. Stuero) (80')
Possession
51% / 49%
Shots
(3)6 / (5)8
Fouls
13 / 8
Corners
2 / 3
Offsides
0 / 0
Man of the Match
S. Lankiv (EDS) (8.7)

Starting XI v. HUElavia (3-5-2)
Lankiv - Saz-Cernisqivar, Javarqa, Norseden - Wejikaj, Haarviq, Ystermakt, Stuero [C], Ghrkesbvy - Utravak, Reiovus

[Edsmontik]

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✶Semifinals✶

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LEFT SIDE

Crpostran 2-3 Drawkland
@Vaanstross-Keisar, EDS

RIGHT SIDE

Edsmontik 4-4 HUElavia (5-4 AET)
@Bellafonte Multi-Purpose Stadium, CRN
Scorinated by Hamborn

---

✶Final & 3PPO✶

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FINAL
Drawkland v. Edsmontik
@Touve Suberarenae, EDS

3PPO
Crpostran v. HUElavia
@Crpostair Arena, CRN

[Crpostran]

[*]All images are from the web

[Edsmontik]

The player image in the video thumbnail was modified by AI, however the scoreline graphic and video descriptions were man-made.

---

Commenators - Jon Berdrusse, Recha Vasskold

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POST MATCH COMMENTARY
JB - You've absolutely got to be kidding me. There is no way that happened.

RV - I know, right? It's crazy, the highest scoring game of all of the IAC26. And it's a semifinal, for Margaret's sake! A semifinal!

JB - Two attacking focused teams, too many goals.

RV - You can never have too many goals.

JB - Hah. Anyways, this was a great game, which in my opinion, shows the true essence of football, pure attacking power.

RV - Right, looking at the game, what's the biggest things here?

JB - Reiovus. Absolutely silent during normal time, played like he had his life on the line in extra time. He was on the brink of coming off but looks like Managre made the right call keeping him on.

RV - For sure. That low driven shot that he slotted past Morterero was just beautiful. He runs, screams, and then realizes it's not enough, so he takes that shirt off and just whips it around like a beast.

JB - And then everyone comes in and it's a huge pile of Edsmons. The fans tell you everything as well, blue and red confetti, flags, and jerseys all up in the air. Just beautiful.

RV - You know what, let's see the footage again.

---

117'
JB - Looks like Managre is there waiting for the ball to go out of play, he's preparing the last man to come on there.

RV - It's with Maartin Stuero.

JB - Now, Odem Reuhans. I heard he’s joining a new team soon isn’t he? He’s been transfer listed along with some other players on Emprijaal.

RV - Yeah. It is a little unusual that they’re giving up all of their crucial players, but I guess it does make room for youth.

JB - Reuhans to Reiovus.

RV - The 18 has been quiet today, I’m surprised he is not coming off yet.

JB - Well, scrap that, Reiovus is making a move!

RV - That’s a great cut inside.

JB - He’s going past all of them! What an effort! Oh- EDSMONTIK HAVE SCORED! THEY MIGHT BE THROUGH TO THE FINAL WITH THAT! In a mess of defenders, Reiovus places one low and steady past the HUElavian keeper. What a goal.

RV - Off goes the shirt now, hah.

JB - And there’s the yellow card. He’s just shrugging it off, pat on the back for the referee as well.

RV - Well, with that, you might as well say this game is over. With all of their substitutes used, there is not much left HUElavia can do to find an equalizer.

---

POST MATCH COMMENTARY
JB - I just can’t stop watching that.

RV - Same. Beautiful way to take your country to a major final for the second time ever.

JB - I do realize, Edsmontik has never lost a final.

RV - They’ve only ever played in one, haven't they? Baptism of Fire 84.

JB - The friendly tournament involving Ralsalin as well, they won that.

RV - Oh, right. So they’re two for two, and one for one in major tournaments. Can they bring it home to keep the record going?

JB - I believe in them. They’re a strong team.

RV - Alright, let’s discuss HUElavia. Beautiful game from them as well.

JB - Indeed, I mean, just look at that comeback. From 3-1 down to 4-3 up. We all thought they took it this time. But I geuss they didn’t.

RV - If they won, to be honest, it would be fully deserved. They were level if not higher than Edsmontik in terms of passion the entire game. Some beautiful goals, especially that scissor kick by Arruda to level the game.

JB - Great set up by the captain to get him in position to scissor it past Lankiv. Speaking of keepers, insane saves today, eh?

RV - Yep, both Lankiv and Morterero made at least six saves today. Beautiful work from both of them. If they weren’t there, this could have been the highest scoring game period. Would have been 11-10, I think.

JB - It’s crazy to think about.

RV - For sure.

JB - Anyways, that’s about it for today, stay tuned, because in a couple of days, ISN will be broadcasting the third place playoff, Crpostran against HUElavia, in Crpostown, and the final, Edsmontik against Drawkland, in Touve.

*Cue outro music*

---

EDSMONTIK 5-4 HUELAVIA
Bellafonte Multi-Purpose Stadium, CRN
Goals
1-0 - M. Ghreksbvy (S. Utravak) (9')
1-1 - J. Serra (R. Arruda) (28')
2-1 - M. Stuero (M. Ghreksbvy) (39')
3-1 - I. Javarqa (M. Ghreksbvy) (56')
3-2 - R. Arruda (S. Kaba) (61')
3-3 - R. Arruda (A. Gavicaechebarria) (70')
3-4 - J. Sartori (J. Serra) (81')
4-4 - A. Jorvik (M. Svaardaen) (86')
5-4 - V. Reiovus (O. Reuhans) (117')
Possession
50% / 50%
Shots
(11)15 / (10)17
Fouls
15 / 15
Corners
7 / 6
Offsides
2 / 1
Man of the Match
M. Ghreksbvy (EDS) (9.0)

Starting XI v. Drawkland (3-5-2)
Lankiv - Saz-Cernisqivar, Javarqa, Norseden - Aespana, Svaardaen, Ystermakt, Stuero [C], Ghreksbvy - Utravak, Reiovus

[Drawkland]

Danika Garner was in a tough spot.

By most metrics, she was actually in a great spot. Her Kick Corps had won seven consecutive matches, rolling through their Independents Cup schedule without a blip (wins in extra time notwithstanding). For all the success and near-success of Drawkland in the IAC, this was the first time they'd won seven consecutive matches in the tournament. It wasn't the first time they'd won seven TOTAL, thanks to the long schedule in IAC-15, but it was hard to deny that this is the most dominant the Kick Corps has looked since, well, last cycle. Being the manager feels easier when things are going well.

For all the accolades that Ellizdan has earned in her long undying career, Kick Corps performances in the IAC under her management were ones to forget. Two losses in the Round of 16, and then only the second group stage elimination in Kick Corps history. Those poor outings were one of the main reasons the Elf was shown the door, where she'd proceeded to perhaps mar her record further with an underachieving Marauders national team in Valanora. While the World Cup qualifications have been frustratingly infrequent still, Independents Cup showings have been better than ever since Ellzidan's departure. In those five cycles since, three managers have helmed the Kick Corps, and now all three have reached the final. All five cycles featured a quarterfinal berth, four of them a semifinal berth. While Drawkland is still searching for its first title in what is now twenty cycles, it's hard to deny that we're looking at another Kick Corps golden age, from an IAC perspective.

What does this have to do with Danika Garner? If you're particularly superstitious, this could be her last chance to come away with silverware in her international managerial career. The last two Kick Corps managers, Francesca Wells and Diana Levitt, both lost in the IAC final and went on to miss qualification the following cycle, losing their jobs thereafter. A loss to the hosts in Edsmontik could set Garner down that same path herself. After how terribly last cycle's qualification began, she's lucky she still has this job to begin with.

A particularly astute observer may point out that Drawkland had a particularly fortunate draw in this tournament. Being the #1 ranked nation does come with some perks. A particularly soft group draw (outside of Eriadni, who the Corps still handled) led to Drawkland topping the seeding table and receiving a relatively simple path to the final. Aamathyr is a tough up-and-comer, but they were handled. Sel Appa were hungry for revenge from last cycle's third place game, but the Corps once again made magic happen in extra time. Crpostran, while holding some pedigree, are still searching for the heights they achieved a few cycles ago. Normally by this point Drawkland would've run into HUElavia and had their campaign totally derailed!

In the New Corps era (since the Elite Eleven's firing), the managers have made a habit of cycling through a "B-team" lineup for a majority of the Independents Cup. World Cup games are too valuable to risk reducing the minutes of the top-line talent, but refusing caps to legitimately talented second-stringers is no way to develop a complete team (especially when you have undying and untiring immortals creating logjams in the roster). The IAC became a proving ground for the younger and hungrier Drawkian ladies desperate to make their mark with the national team. The big names would get spot starts or late-game subs, but for most of the campaign they're just along for the ride. In most cases this works fine, and this cycle it worked great. But when it comes to late stage knockout games against other high-level teams, you reach a crossroads. Do you continue to ride with the second-string starters who have momentum and warm legs? Or do you bring out the big (but cold) guns to put additional pressure on the opponent?

This quandary becomes even more difficult when considering the feelings of the players themselves. The second-stringers would feel slighted after doing 90% of the work only to be sat down right on the doorstep of glory. The first-stringers already feel like there's no point in them showing up to the tournament in the first place. They made the trip there, why not use their skills in the biggest game of the tournament? Either way you turn, you're pissing off at least a third of the team.



Ultimately Danika Garner decided for the mixed approach. A bit obvious, isn't it? The best of the best from the majority of the campaign can stay, while the more mediocre contributors cede their spot to the "normal" starters. Anybody struggling in the first half will almost certainly be subbed off for fresher legs as the game progresses. All this in mind, this will be the starting line against Edsmontik:

23   GK    Emma Middleburg    
14   LB    Dawn Rogers
 4   CB    Jane M. Thompson
 3   RB    Nicole Warren
 7   LM    Joan Viola
 8   CM    Toni Dillan
 5   RM    Emily Tobin
 9   AM    Carla Murray
23   LF    Addyson Santana
11   CF    Cecilia Benbow
25   RF    Gwen Butler

Despite being a debutant to the national team and a rookie last year for the Bellator Riders, young keeper Emma Middleburg retains her spot in goal after starting 5 games and posting 2 clean sheets in this campaign. There is a slight chance we see McKenna Reed subbed in late if the game looks headed to extra time.

Defensively, the immortal Nicole Warren gets slotted back in on the right, since Alicia Devlin blew several defensive looks that allowed multiple goals in the last two games against Sel Appa and Crpostran. Jane Thompson has played well in the center and stays in, and Dawn Rogers has been so good at leftback that she even got a hyped card in Football Unleashed. That said, expect to see veteran Rachael Bright or immortal Sarah Arrowsword subbed in late if Drawkland is defending a tight lead.

The midfield reverts to its standard arrangement, with Queenie Donahue suffering from cramps that caused her depart the semifinal match early. Emily Tobin comes back in to shore things up. Kallie Wembley may be the first off the bench if needed, but it's more likely that Carla Murray gets moved or subbed and another striker gets put in up front. If the additional defender comes in, it'll likely be at the expense of Joan Viola or the least effective forward.

The forward line has simply been too good to move. Addyson Santana, fresh off MVP honors for Drawk Corps in The Outbox League, has been transcendant in this tournament as well. Gwen Butler (who gave Addy a run for her money this TOL season) has been similarly effective. This is in addition to Cece Benbow continuing her push towards legendary status among all strikers in Kick Corps history. It's insane that these players are so good that CAM CROSS has to sit on the bench behind them. That said, we would all be very surprised if Cam doesn't come on at some point this match.



This seems like a roster that can finally get Drawkland back to the top of the indie world, but it certainly won't be easy. Don't be fooled by the fact that Drawkland is 2-0-1 against Edsmontik all-time (and 2-0-0 in IAC knockout play). The Edsmon Eagles have already established themselves as an indie stalwart. They're Baptism of Fire champions, first-time qualifiers (not that this impresses anybody in Drawkland), and have made it two rounds further in the World Cup than Drawkland ever has! They're searching for that elusive first Independents Cup title, and what better place to do that than their home ground in Touve?

Not only do they have the pedigree, but they have a gameplan that can seriously get to the Kick Corps. While their standard deep passing strategy probably won't be seen much against the towering Drawkians, they're no stranger to a quicker and shorter passing game. This is the sort of thing that can really damage the Kick Corps plan. The longer/taller reach and more powerful runs are hallmarks of the Drawkian game against human competition, so the natural counter is to keep things low and nimble. The Corps still has agile players, especially at this level, but it's hard to overcome physiology, especially when the pressure's on.

This seems like the kind of game that gets won by whoever gets up early. No matter what, the champion will be deserved. And with the boogeyman HUElavia not waiting on the other end of the pitch, the excuses are gone. The Kick Corps knows the stakes. Can they finally win that second title?

[Edsmontik]

Before it's all finally over, I'd like to thank everyone, from the competing nations to my co-host Crpo to everyone that scorinated my knockout games and graded my RPs. It was a pleasure to host such a major tournament for the first time, and with such success as well. I wish everyone a great time and great luck in whatever tournament comes next

---

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✶Semifinals✶

---

THIRD PLACE PLAYOFF

Crpostran 1-1 HUElavia (1-1 AET) (4-5 pen.)
@Crpostair Arena, CRN

THE FINAL

Edsmontik 4-5 Drawkland
@Touve Suberarenae, EDS
Scorinated by Tumbra

[Saterun]

Higher quality image available upon request.