Sporting World Cup 9 (U18WC) Everything Thread

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2025
Notebook: Out & About in Bukovets
by Fiona Devlin, National Soccer Writer

We're often asked as reporters, by the fan in the street, what we do in between matches at a tournament like the Sporting World Cup. There is usually a routine that one gets into on daily basis, but for the most part, like anyone travelling in a foreign country, we sightsee and explore the area around wherever we are based.

This is the fourth time I have covered the Under-18's at the SWC, and in the previous three, things ran pretty much to form; we were based in one city for the group stage, so travel wasn't an issue and spending 10-12 days in one place gives you the ability to develop friendly relations with locals you encounter on a regular basis (hotel staff/host stadium personnel/other reporters, etc.).

On the beat, there is usually media availability with the manager daily, and with players, either before or after training. Prior to the first match, the FAC in cooperation with the Siovanijan governing body, the STFA, took us over to Chernovets for a media availability with the Bliuji manager and 2 players. That was unusual in that the other teams in the group are all based in Chernovets, while BP are alone in Bukovets.

A young local woman I've gotten to know agreed to show me around the city one day, and to allow me to interview her informally as we spent the day together. Tanja (not her real name) has lived in the city all her life and is typical of a mid-20's Siovanijan university graduate.

"Until several years ago, you needed special permission from the government to visit Bukovets, as it was a major weapon producing area. What would happen is young people would finish upper school (equivalent to high school) and want to leave for other parts of the country. So now there is a hole in the demographic, where there are a lot more single women in their 20's here than there are men to meet the demand", her bright smile turning to laughing at the last part of that statement. "But it is home, and has been a good place to live, and now that it is open to all, we are starting to see some people moving back or moving in for the first time."

One of my cynical colleagues suggested that Tanja is probably with the secret police, since we have crossed paths so often during my stay here,(ed note: Siovanija & Teusland is a constitutional democracy and does not have a secret police, per the Embassy in Belle Haven) which I would think is fascinating! (FD writes as an aside--'same colleague was taken in with Tanja's friendliness and charm upon meeting her, so I told him we are now both under watch')

It's location--closer to the mountain range that divides the country in two--means that we have have only the calendar to remind us it is still summer in this most southerly of Atlantian Oceania nations, although we are told it has not been as cold at night as it could be.

(to be continued in Part 2)

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Matchday 3

Group A

The Andromeda Island Group 3–3 Tyrannyicalist
Starblaydia 2–4 Siovanija & Teusland

Group A                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Siovanija & Teusland                    3   2  1  0    9   6  +3    7
2 The Andromeda Island Group              3   1  2  0    7   6  +1    5
3 Starblaydia                             3   1  0  2    6   6   0    3
4 Tyrannyicalist                          3   0  1  2    5   9  −4    1

Group B

Authoritarian Republic of Lochario 0–1 Equestria
Trolleborg 1–3 Free Republics

Group B                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Free Republics                          3   3  0  0   14   9  +5    9
2 Trolleborg                              3   2  0  1    8   4  +4    6
3 Equestria                               3   1  0  2    5   8  −3    3
4 Authoritarian Republic of Lochario      3   0  0  3    5  11  −6    0

Group C

Tamgu 4–2 Union of Quincy
Cosumar 0–1 BOLGANO

Group C                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Cosumar                                 3   2  0  1    6   3  +3    6
2 Tamgu                                   3   2  0  1    9   8  +1    6
3 Union of Quincy                         3   1  0  2    7   8  −1    3
4 BOLGANO                                 3   1  0  2    5   8  −3    3

Group D

Chromatika 1–1 Kwangtzu Guānnán
Aquitlia 3–0 Mercedini

Group D                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Aquitlia                                3   3  0  0    8   1  +7    9
2 Chromatika                              3   1  1  1    4   3  +1    4
3 Kwangtzu Guānnán                        3   0  2  1    4   6  −2    2
4 Mercedini                               3   0  1  2    2   8  −6    1

Group E

Terre Septentrionale 4–1 Oberour Ar Moro
Darmen 2–1 The Transmondian Commonwealth

Group E                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Terre Septentrionale                    3   2  0  1    5   2  +3    6
2 Oberour Ar Moro                         3   2  0  1    9   9   0    6
3 Darmen                                  3   1  0  2    4   5  −1    3
4 The Transmondian Commonwealth           3   1  0  2    5   7  −2    3

Group F

Baker Park 2–0 Abanhfleft
Bliuji 0–1 Libonesia

Group F                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Baker Park                              3   3  0  0    9   1  +8    9
2 Abanhfleft                              3   2  0  1    5   3  +2    6
3 Libonesia                               3   1  0  2    3   7  −4    3
4 Bliuji                                  3   0  0  3    0   6  −6    0

Group G

Hapilopper 6–1 Greater Cebu
Silver Beach 0–0 Appalachian Nation

Group G                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Hapilopper                              3   3  0  0   13   6  +7    9
2 Silver Beach                            3   1  1  1    7   7   0    4
3 Appalachian Nation                      3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4
4 Greater Cebu                            3   0  0  3    4  11  −7    0

Group H

HUElavia 0–1 United States of Devonta
Sajnur 3–1 Freeport

Group H                                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sajnur                                  3   2  1  0   10   5  +5    7
2 Freeport                                3   2  0  1    7   5  +2    6
3 United States of Devonta                3   1  0  2    1   5  −4    3
4 HUElavia                                3   0  1  2    6   9  −3    1

Round of 16 Fixtures

Siovanija & Teusland vs Trolleborg, at Olimpski-Stadion, Borograd
Cosumar vs Chromatika, at Jezera-Stadion, Vlaikograd
Terre Septentrionale vs Abanhfleft, at Stahlarbeiter-Union-Arena, Stahlberg
Hapilopper vs Freeport, at Nationalstadion, Stelburg
Free Republics vs The Andromeda Island Group, at Energija-Arena, Chernovets
Aquitlia vs Tamgu, at Pomorie-Arena, Pomorie
Baker Park vs Oberour Ar Moro, at Draistadion, St. Jakob
Sajnur vs Silver Beach, at Veisel, Rotmunde

[Appalachian Nation]

Appy's run ends with a thud

Siovanija and Teusland - A 0-0 tie ended any hop the Appy Kids had at moving on in the U-18WC, but after the debacle with Hapilopper that spilled out on to the pitch. An inattentive Todd Winecroft had tripped over Hapilopper defender Jared Dickman in the 77th minute. It was obviously an accident but Dickman didn't see it that way. He charged Winecroft who was also still on the ground and a fracas started. The refs knew Winecroft's contact was unintentional and red carded the Happilopper kid. Soon the teams met out on the field to protect their teammates, and while it seemed to have calmed down someone on the Appy Kids side instigated another fury from Dyckman. Reportedly but unconfirmed, reserve midfielder Tonya Richards-Blakely said something along the lines of calling Dickman a "Virgin". This truck a chord for the already red carder defender and who know maybe he is a virgin and is trying to hide it. But it nearly started a second brawl as he tried to take on another group of Appy Kids. While this did help Appy's short run with the scoring getting closed 3-2 after s PK that would end up the final score.

After a 0-0 tie with Silver Beach, the Appy Kids finished third in the group with a full 1-1-1 record, beating Cebu who went a disasterous 0-0-3. The good news is that Appalachian Nation has filed paperwork for a World Cup Application, and hopefully then, we can see the likes of Cleetus and Bubba, along with Max McFarland in Goal on an international stage. The Hillbilly's have not competed in an international tournament since the disbanding of the Big Six Tournaments in 2019.

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Die Stelburger Zeitung

Sport

Reflecting on the Sporting World Cup Group Stage

48 matches are now in the books at the Sporting World Cup, and 16 teams remain after the conclusion of the group stage. Let’s take a moment to reflect on how our nation, hosting an international tournament for the first time, welcomed the action.

The obvious spectacle was on team Siovanija and Teusland, based out of the Nationalstadion in Stelburg for the duration of the group stage. On opening day, the young Goldhorns kicked off the tournament in its opening match against Tyrannyicalist. The Nationalstadion was packed with 75,000 souls are cheering on the home side as loud as the stadium had ever been during senior national team matches.

The national anthem was belted with gusto, as banners hung from every corner of the stadium displaying the national flag and other slogans. On that opening day, despite a poor first half from the Goldhorns who trailed 2-1 after 45 minutes, the home side were treated to a grand victory. Erik Moselle had his first of the tournament to even things up before Lojze Kokalj belted in the winner on 75 minutes from distance, causing large celebration from the home support. Even though a Stelburg rain poured down at the end of 90 minutes, that did not stop the fans from flooding the streets afterwards to pay tribute to their heroes on the day.

Those were the scenes across the 11 cities and 16 stadiums in this country playing host to Sporting World Cup group stage matches. In Vlaikograd, for example, a matchday 1 faceoff between Hapilopper and Silver Beach at the Ivo-Balikov-Arena earned the applause of the home neutral fans present, as it was one of the most exciting matches of the tournament so far: a 4-3 win for Hapilopper. Foreign fans, Siovanijans and Teus enjoyed the matches at several of the fan parks set up in each host city.

“It has been very beneficial for our city,” said Rotmunde Mayor Helmut Landgraf, where the 48,000-seat Veisel split Group C hosting duties alongside the Felsenkirchen-Arena. The two cities, despite their intense sporting rivalry, both shared that experience: “I think Helmut is right, it’s been great for us as well. It’s opening up our part of the country to the world, and I hope that everyone has enjoyed their visit,” claimed Felsenkirchen Mayor Stefen Paulus.

Back in Stelburg, this time at the Teussens-Arena, the Goldhorns’ campaign continued against The Andromeda Island Group. Erik Moselle had a brace to make it 2-1 for the Goldhorns, but a late own goal by goalkeeper Ilija Kortnik brought the visitors level and the match finished 2-2. It was a poor mistake by Kortnik in another Stelburg downpour, but the home support never wavered.

Meanwhile in the nation, visiting teams and supporters continued to make an impression on our people. The team from Trolleborg, for example, quickly became fan-favourites in Stelburg. The team, eager to explore the country, and their fans alike earned a warm welcome from the Stelburgers. Trolleborg’s fans waved the Stelburg city flag alongside their own, and often invited the locals to experience parts of their own culture. In St. Jakob, volunteers from Aquitlia handed out team scarves and uniforms outside the Draistadion before their match with Mercedini, surely winning their team over to some St. Jakobites. While the nation’s overall loyalties remain with the Goldhorns, most people in host cities will surely have a second team they’d like to see do well now.

On the final matchday of the group stage, the Goldhorns returned to the Nationalstadion for a showdown with Starblaydia, one-time U18 world champions. A win for the home side would send them through to the knockouts, and the Goldhorns did not waste any time getting going. Erik Moselle scored in the 6th minute to give Siovanija and Teusland the lead, and while Starblaydia would reply within 10 minutes, goals from Kokalj and Moselle made the score 3-1 at the half. Starblaydia would cut the score to 3-2, but a goal late on again from Moselle, securing his hat-trick, made the score 4-2 for Siovanija and Teusland and earned him an ovation from the Nationalstadion crowd. When the match ended, fireworks into the Stelburg night sky served to announce the Goldhorns’ victory as well as send them off to Borograd for the playoff rounds.

Elsewhere, 8 stadiums waved good-bye to the tournament as they will not play host to any playoff round matches. Fans at the Bukovets-Stadion chanted for the team from Baker Park at the end of their 2-0 win over Abanhfleft, Baker Park’s team had been based in Bukovets for the entire tournament and the locals took a liking to them. At the Ivo-Balikov-Arena, the home crowd gave the team from Hapilopper a standing ovation at the conclusion of their 6-1 victory over Greater Cebu. The best scenes of all, however, came in Pomorie/Marzig.

On matchday 3, Sajnur and Freeport kicked off their match at the Vest-Marlebucht-Stadion with both teams already advanced to the playoff round. With the Vest-Marlebucht-Stadion not hosting any playoff matches, it was the final chance for the fans to show their support for the world. The fans in Pomorie/Marzig, for all the sectarian troubles there have been over the years, are some of the best in the country, and that was on full display. For the final 10 minutes and stoppage time of the game, home fans belted out the patriotic song Marzig’s Walls, at least as loud as it has ever been sung before at TSV Marzig games. RBC Sports commentators in fact remained silent throughout stoppage time to allow listeners at home to hear the fans. Video of the moment went viral on social media websites across the country.

Now, however, with the group stages left behind, focus turns to the playoff rounds. 8 stadiums in 8 different cities will play host to matches, with those teams who played in Siovanija for the group stage travelling to Teusland for the playoff and vice-versa. Siovanija & Teusland travel to Borograd to host Trolleborg at the Olimpski-Stadion. Trolleborg had a solid group stage campaign, winning their opening match 5-1, but a matchday 3 loss to the Free Republics left them second in Group B and a date with the Goldhorns in Borograd.

If the Goldhorns are to advance and attempt a run in this tournament, some things will need to change. Of the 9 goals scored in the tournament so far, 8 have come off the boot of either Erik Moselle or Lojze Kokalj. While it's great that these two young stars are producing, they'll need some help. Could the possible introduction of Denis Dezelac, who has yet to appear in the tournament but is slated to start up top alongside Moselle thanks to brilliant performances in training, affect this? The Goldhorns will also need Leopold Bliznakov to find his best form: the midfielder has been good, not great through 3 games. The Goldhorns have also conceded 6 times in the group stage, and Taras Maksimov and Novak Skrinjar need to rediscover their chemistry. Julian Koprvic has been decent in goal, but he too could find another level.

The visiting Trolleborg earned the support of many Stelburgers in the group stage as neutrals thanks to the positivity their fans brought to our nation, they'll be 90 minute enemies now as the Goldhorns look to advance in the Sporting World Cup. Come on you Goldhorns!

[Trolleborg]

TROLLEBORG – FREE REPUBLIC 1:3

Yes, we lost last group match and now must prepare for a showdown with a hosts. But no one can throw a stone at the team.



We making the same fast attacks and spectacular crossings like in first two matches, but nevertheless opponents prevailed. We play well, but played short of what needed for win, and something missing from our game. Maybe Free Republics benefitted from their experience whilst we haven’t any.




So we lost, this is it. We make it into second place in group stage, receive probably most dangerous possible opponent in the playoff. Some try to ask, is it wise on the part of Hendrick Kerr put five new players into the lineup in situation like his, but remember – no one is really waiting that we won the cup, we just try water, and it’s imperative that as much players as possible have a taste of international competitions. They are our future, and we gladly invest in them.

In the T-friends fans are mainly give a sober accessment of situation, not much of panic or coach critics. Fight with hosts will be, obviously, very challenging, and it’s also clear to everyone. Anyway, it’s our first try and result is already not bad.

[Trolleborg]

[since i'm probably will not have a web connection tomorrow, i publish my game preview right now. Excuse me for inconvenience]

1\8 Siovanija & Teusland – Trolleborg

Hendrick Kerr share his thoughts about incoming match:
We can, possibly, avoid such a difficult situation, but we bring it themselves on us. Or, rather, I was. Lads play as good as only can.

Style +4

It’s difficultiest of possible situations. Our opponents will have a tremendous support and their team is more than just good, scoring three goals per game. Our team need all we can bring on the field and 150 percent of commitment. Whole country will see match, having a day off for that.



Yes, it was a real enlightening experience. Yes, our youngsters play well. Yes, it’s will be exciting game. Yes, everyone prefer to see such an encounter in the final of the tournament, but things are such as they is. Yes, our fans made a lot of friends in the world.

But yes, we can ask providence for something else these day.

Fans on the spot prepare magnificient show on the streets and stands, with a fire, water, costumed personnel, giant flags and posters, symbolically reenacting main events of the Trolleborg history and symbolizing some national traits.

[Silver Beach]

The Silver Standard
Silver Beach's #1 source for news!

Change in Silverian back line see squad advance to knockout stages of U18 World Cup


Natalie Lachman celebrates goal against Greater Cebu in the U18 World Cup

VIAKOGRAD, SIOVANIJA- The first two games this Silverian squad played at the U18 World Cup could only be described as instant classics. The game against Hapilopper, especially, the two teams, hustling and fighting with each other for a win to start the tournament strong, won plaudits as one of the best games of the tournament. Even many Siovanijan neutrals who had attended the game, not expecting it to be tightly contested as Hapilopper came in as early favorites, but getting an absolutely fantastic game. Kiggwe Siakam applauded his young side after the finish of the game, saying that they went toe to toe against a high quality opponent. "it's not easy to win in an international tournament, especially when you consider how short of a time this team has been together." Said Kiggwe Siakam. "Of course, I've been here, but none of the boys on the field have been here before. The pressure did not get to them- a great start to the game. We have to work on our second halves, of course, as we struggled down much of the stretch for this one, but it is only Game 1. There is a lot to build upon from here."

And then, of course, they went to the second game- against Greater Cebu. The team that ended up finishing with no points and in dead last in their group, they put up quite a fight against the Silverians. Fortunately for the Hebrew Republic, however, our boys came out and actually won the game, by a score of 4-3. While the defense struggled, for the second straight game, it would be the Silverian attackers that would light up the scoreboards. It was Greater Cebu who had scored first- an 11th minute header. But the Hebrew Republic came out firing after that, and Kiggwe Siakam's side had ended up taking a 4-1 lead into the break. Four goals in the span of 20 minutes, an absolutely miraclous run that saw the Silverian sides go from trailing in this one, to almost running away with it.

And the wealth was being spread. Caiaphas Lapid scored the opener, hitting a penalty kick in the 17th minute. after an inadvertent handball from a Greater Cebu defender. Sharona Davidson was the player who gave the Silverians the lead, when she chipped the ball over the head of the Greater Cebu goalkeeper on a breakaway in the 21st minute. The Silverians, although they had flipped the scoreboard, and the game, on its head, were not done. No, they were no where near done. Natalie Lachman, the female half of the Lachman twins, would be the one to double Silver Beach's lead, and make the score 3-1. She was able to take a volley and strike, head on, towards goal, and it was a volley with such pace and ferocity that the Greater Cebu goalkeeper was frozen, not having a prayer. The stunner gave the Silverians a 3-1 lead, and they looked to be in business. Lapid added a second goal at the half hour mark, and just like that, it was 4-1.

Of course, the Silverians had to hold off the excesses of their opponents during the rest of the match. The match slowed down, and they were focused on holding in the back. In the 78th minute, the lead was cut from three goals to two, making many Silverians nervous when a Greater Cebu defender came open on a corner kick and headed home. Greater Cebu was throwing everyone forward- thanks to scheduling, a loss here to Silver Beach meant they would be eliminated from the U18 World Cup with a game to go, and they certainly did not want that. Silverian fans started to get really nervous when Shubha Beer attempted to clear out a cross, but ended up firing the ball into the back of his own net. A 4-1 lead where the Silverians were cruising turned into 4-3 in just a matter of minutes, and Greater Cebu was pushing hard for their first points of the campaign.

Alas, it was not to be for them. Siakam's side held on, and went to 1-1 at the U18 World Cup. That left them with one game remaining, against Appalachian Nation. The teams were fighting for all the marbles. Silver Beach, of course, was ahead on the last tiebreaker- Goals Scored. So a win or a draw would put the Silverians through, and Appalachian Nation needed a win. They would attack where the Silverians were weak- on the back line. Allowing 7 goals through the first two games was not how Siakam wanted to start, even though he's always been open about wanting an attacking side. Those kind of numbers ensure that you will not go deep into a tournament- a team needs to be able to defend well, especially against the better opponents, deeper into a tournament, or else they will not be able to triumph. See Ko-oren at the most recent AOCAF, for example. They're always in it, and even though they were underdogs in the Round of 16 against the World Cup bronze medal holders Banija, their stingy defense allowed them to outplay the Kadongo Kamu on that day.

And against Appalachian Nation, they would need a strong defense. Appalachian Nation would be forced to attack, and go towards the net, and that is exactly what they did. Silver Beach, however, made changes to its back line. Thaddeus Geiger and Zamir Rocker would start on the left half of this back line, instead of Beer and Harel. And under repeated pressure from the Appalachian Nation, the Silverian defense held. Sinclair especially kept threatening. But the Banijan back line held their ground. Getting bodies in front of every shot, ensuring no good balls and passes could be made inside the 18, winning every head on a cross, putting pressure on their opponents. After allowing 7 goals, the improvement on the back line was night and day.

What will happen next? The tournament will continue. Silver Beach will continue our quest in Rotmunde, playing at Veisel, against Sajnur. Sajnur, of course, won their group, earning 7 points form a possible 9, in a tough group that contained the Freeport Isles, the United States of Devonta, and HUElavia, all nations whom are WCC members. They will be flying to the island of Teusland for this match, after three games in Siovanija. Can they pull off the upset? It depends what we see form the Silverians. The defense will be under tremendous pressure, but Kiggwe Siakam is more than capable of inspiring his boys to pull off what would certainly be a massive upset. All eyes will be on the manager, to see whether or not the former Brian Emerson understudy can truly shock youth football across the multiverse, and get Silver Beach into the final 8 of this tournament.

[Hapilopper]

Ivo-Balikov-Arena, Vlaikograd, Siovanija
The third group stage match: Hapilopper v. Greater Cebu
All throughout the group stage of the Sporting World Cup, there had been some fantastic matches, close matches and competitive affairs. This, however, was not one of them. The Little Haps, minus one Dickman after his stunt in the Hap/App match, was hellbent on making a statement coming into the playoffs of the competition. A statement victory would give them confidence going into the playoffs and would likely make them forget about the Dickman incident.

Jerold Dickman, The Little Haps’ volatile defender, was watching the match from his hotel room. He had been given a one-match suspension for the red card, which he earned by punching Appalachian forward Todd Winecroft after he thought Winecroft had kicked him in the stomach. For several minutes, chaos broke out as players from both teams tried to break the two apart. The HNFT declined to appeal the red card, after reviewing videotape of the incident and after head coach Garnett Sydney tried to get an explanation from Jerold the night after the match. The HNFT had pretty much conceded that Jerold had been in the wrong, and would not be traveling with the rest of the team to the Ivo-Balikov-Arena for the match.

So, consequently, Jerold was left to his own devices in his hotel room, where he ordered a pizza, a two-liter bottle of soda and turned on the match. He was displeased that the team hadn’t supported him, but in all fairness, he had no case.

The match he witnessed went one-sided almost from the minute it got started. In the second minute, Herb Northrop sent a pass to Peter Robson who fired it into goal. Hapilopper led 1-0. Toby Bryson sent one into the back of the net in the fifth minute. In the ninth minute, Robson got another one to make it 3-0. It was painfully clear that this was a mismatch, and that Hapilopper could conceivably win 10-0 if they wanted to. But the team realized what was going on and let up in a hurry. They didn’t want to make Greater Cebu look bad. They didn’t want to humiliate them, they just wanted to beat them and tell the other teams in the Sporting World Cup that they were a force to be reckoned with.

But humiliating them? That didn’t seem like their idea of fun. They had seen the senior team get blown to bits by Equestria during the AOCAF and it was about the hardest thing to watch. So, rather than rubbing it in, Hapilopper decided to park the bus. Rather than attack like mad, the team opted instead to just pass the ball among each other and if they scored a goal along the way, then just go along their merry way and don’t celebrate it with excessive theatrics.

Throughout the match, players passed the ball among each other, and the ball did make it into the net a few times. Peter Robson got a hat trick in the 53rd minute and a fourth goal in the 69th (nice). A player from Greater Cebu actually got one in in the 75th, while Toby Bryson got his second goal in the 82nd. Hapilopper won 6-1, and it was the kind of match that just showed a team’s strength and its potential going into the playoffs.

With Silver Beach and the Appalachian Nation going to a tie, the Little Haps had won the group and were on the way to face Freeport in the Round of 16 at the Nationalstadion in Stelburg, Teusland, and were already seen as among the favorites to win the Sporting World Cup. Several players were reminded of this fact as they rode back to the hotel on the team bus.

“Y’all are going to have a surprise waiting for you on your beds,” Garnett Sydney said. “This is for making the playoffs. Now, a lot of people have said already that you guys are the favorites to win this entire tournament. I say this not to bloat your ego, but I say this as a cautionary tale. Don’t let it get to your heads and don’t consider this tournament won until it’s actually won. The Under-21s were a favorite to win the DBC but they got knocked off in the semis. Keep your head down, work your asses off and fight for it!”

While the players started buzzing over what that surprise may be, one player found out before the others. Try to guess which one.

The team hotel, not far from the Ivo-Balikov-Arena
The same time
“Ughhhhh…. I can’t believe I ate that whole thing.”

Jerold Dickman was hunched over the toilet in the bathroom of the hotel room he was sharing with defenseman Levi Bateson. He didn’t know it, but Dominic Probst, the head of the Hapilopper Football Association, had snuck into his hotel room to put the surprises on the beds of both players. Probst was less than pleased with what he had seen – a pizza box on Jerold’s bed, an empty two-liter bottle of soda and garlic sauce spilled on one of the beds.

“What happened here?” Dominic asked.

Jerold turned around and to his horror, found the head of the HFA staring him down.

“Did you eat all that?!” Dominic asked. “My god, man, how the hell are you going to stay in match-ready shape after all of that? What the hell was on that pizza?”

“Everything,” Jerold said, trying to keep everything in.

“Why?” Dominic asked.

“Make the best of a bad situation,” Jerold responded. “Little one-man party if you will.”

“Yeah, I can see that,” Dominic said, looking disappointed at Jerold’s situation. “You’ve got a lot to learn before you’re going to be worth being on the senior team. You’re young, though. You’ll learn.”

At that point, Jerold turned around as quickly as he could and retched. It turned out eating an entire pizza and drinking an entire two-liter bottle of soda didn’t do well with his stomach. Fortunately, the contents all got in the toilet and that was that, but Dominic Probst had seen it all, and he would remember that sight. But at least it was Dominic Probst and not anybody else.

“I’m sorry,” Jerold sheepishly said.

“Kid, you’re 17 years old,” Dominic said. “I’ve seen worse. I’ve had to fish players out of the West River because they drank too much. I’ve had to deal with players not in their right minds for one reason or another. Someone eating too much? Hell, man, I’ve done that too. We’ll just have you train a little harder tomorrow this doesn’t stick with you. Brush your teeth and check out what we’ve put on your bed.”

Players were starting to get back, and when they saw what was waiting for them, it hit home. They were in the playoffs. They were the new uniforms, the “Playoff Specials” that had been so beloved in Hapiloppian sports culture since the 1970s. For Hapiloppian players, the “Playoff Special” was about the greatest morale boost a player could get. It was a sign they could possibly win a championship, and it was time to fight for it.

The Hapilopper National Football Team unveiled its "Playoff Special" kits. From left, the home team kit, the away team kit, and the goalkeeper's kit.

[Terre Septentrionale]

Terre Septentrionale beat Oberour Ar Moro and will face Abanhfleft in round of 16

Borograd, Siovanija - After winning against Darmen and losing to The Transmondian Commonwealth, Terre Septentrionale beat Oberour Ar Moro 4-1. The first team to score was the Nordiques at the 28th minute when Kieron Cockerill-Docherty passed to Benjamin "Sancho" Sanche who dribbled and made a header pass to Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz who heads the ball right into the net and Terre Septentrionale is leading 1-0! This is the score at the halftime.

Oberour Ar Moro attacked at the 48th minute when Player #7 tried to pass to Player #10 but the ball is intercepted by Walter van den Dikkenberg who passed to Gordon Hackshaw who dribbled with the ball and passed to Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz who dribbled and passed to Kévin Cauchon who shoots and scores and it's 2-0 Reprezentacja Nordycki! Terre Septentrionale attacked at the 58th minute when Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz made a cross to Benjamin "Sancho" Sanche who shoots. The ball is deflected by Goalkeeper #1 and goes over the net. It's a corner kick for the Northmen. Dzsenifer Szenteleki-Csoka takes the corner kick, she kicks the ball in the penalty area, Gordon Hackshaw jumps and heads the ball right into the net and the Nordiques are leading 3-0! Terre Septentrionale attacked again at the 64th minute when Gordon Hackshaw passed to Nevenka Martinovic-Hasanbegovic who made a cross to Benjamin "Sancho" Sanche who kicks the ball and it's in the net! 4-0 Reprezentacja Nordycki! Oberour Ar Moro scored at the 86th minute and the final score was 4-1 Terre Septentrionale.

BOXSCORE

28th minute: Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz assisted by Benjamin "Sancho" Sanche
48th minute: Kévin Cauchon assisted by Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz
58th minute: Gordon Hackshaw
64th minute: Benjamin "Sancho" Sanche assisted by Nevenka Martinovic-Hasanbegovic
86th minute: Player #11 assisted by Player #9

YELLOW CARDS

3rd minute: Player #6
37th minute: Nevenka Martinovic-Hasanbegovic
77th minute: Player #4

RED CARDS

None

Abanhfleft

With this win against Oberour Ar Moro, Terre Septentrionale are in 1st place in group E and will play against Abanhfleft in the round of 16. Abanhfleft finished in 2nd place in group F with 2 wins and a loss.

Katarzyna Krzykowska,
junior writer, La tribune septentrionale

[Abanhfleft]

DISCLAIMER: Gaelic Gamers is an independents sports blogging website created by four cousins with a common liking and passion for sports of all kinds and is in no way or form affiliated with or organized by any official news organization in the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft. All statements and opinions posted here are our own and not anyone else's.

---

Gaelic Gamers
Presents...

The Football Fallacies
with Graham O'Doherty

THE SAGA CONTINUES

Hello guys, and welcome back to another edition of The Football Fallacies with me, your gay Irishman Graham O'Doherty. Judging by the title of this post, you can guess where I'm going to go with this. The Revenge of the Unremarkables against the Bees did not go as planned. In fact, you could say that the exact opposite of what we would have wanted to happen happened. It's all a great big mess. And now we've got a meeting with Terre Septentrionale ahead of us, and while this is the first (I believe) that we're facing them, I just have this feeling that I think maybe we've faced them before. But I'm just probably going crazy. What else is new, then?

Truly the Unremarkables have begun living up to their name. I have never seen something so unremarkable, so uninspired, so meh. It probably wasn't helped by the fact that Baker Park scored just three minutes in through Mark Bouchard, but still. For all the talk about the new kids seeking revenge for the championship loss in front of our home crowd a good four or five years earlier, this bunch barely appeared interested in playing more than just a simple football game. It's like they've completely forgotten about the reason why this game is much more important to the nation than just the simple fact of topping the group and possibly getting a better draw in the playoffs. Absolutely no desire to get one over the Bees; just going through the motions of playing a game.

Oh sure, they finally got some urgency going into them, but let' see, when did that happen exactly? Oh, yeah. Seventy minutes into the game. Seventy minutes too late for it to matter. I tell you, for the vast majority of that time our players were very much like headless chickens running around aimlessly. Baker Park made these kids chase shadows; how in the world did we escape this only 2-0 down? Maybe all that talk about hiring a coach with defensive solidity in their repertoire is finally beginning to pay off. But then again, what is defense without the offense to actually put some goals inside the other side's net? It can't just be one or the other. A balance has to be struck, or else why are we even playing this game?

Ah, now. You thought I was going to say "bless their little hearts, they really tried" to start off this next paragraph, didn't you? Admit it. Well, sadly to say I'm not going to do that now, purely because at this point it would be nothing but a pure falsehood. They did not try, the Unremarkables. Not at all. Zero effort, zero heart, zero passion. Even when they finally began pushing for an equalizer in the last twenty minutes, you kind of got the feeling watching them that they're doing it more on the coach's orders rather than for their own selves. And that is perhaps one of the worst things you could ever see in football, be it as just a fan or a player or even a manager yourself. For all this talk of getting results, you don't want your players to turn into robots as well. You want to see fire, passion, creativity, determination, and all the other things in their eyes. You don't want to see numb and mindless following of orders. And I daresay that that is where the vast majority of teams have the advantage over us, even teams that will only play for one tournament and then disappear off the face of the earth. They've got more heart into the game than Abanhfleft sometimes. Sure, there are times where our passions and emotions break through and it makes for some of the best international football I've ever seen us play, but I kind of fear that those days are now gone. Has all this demand for immediate and instant success become too much?

I don't know what to say though really. This team did look like they could do a good number when they went in. The match against Libonesia was, dare I say, a good one. Even with the own goal it looked like these youngsters were having quite a lot of fun out there. Against Bliuji it was Jaime Deans' day for sure, but still, you felt like the other kids still really loved playing. And then the game against Baker Park comes, and this is what I see. What changed? What the hell happened? Did we put too much pressure on them to get this win? Did they begin thinking about the consequences of not doing well? Are all of the doomsayers getting into their heads and turning them all into these self-fulfilling prophecies? Well, it is scarily easy to go from absolutely loving and supporting a team to viciously attacking them as soon as results don't go the way we want (cough cough, Arsenal de Releinthi fans, cough cough). Have we, as a sporting country, become so toxic that it permeates practically every level of our society?

I'm sorry, I kind of went on a huge tangent there. But in all seriousness, this team of Unremarkables has now become quite remarkable to me, if only for the fact that they did not provide any resistance at all against Baker Park in this last group stage game. They've shown that they've got some quality after all in the games against Bliuji and Libonesia, but is that all that there is to them? Are they only good enough to beat some of these lower-tier teams (apologies to everyone from Bliuji and Libonesia reading this, but at the time of writing it's very much true)? Or can they make the step up to become an actual credible force in the youth football scene? Can they finally buck the trend of Abanhfleft always being the bridesmaid but never the bride and win the Under-18 World Cup finally? Is this all too early to be talking about this kind of stuff seeing as we haven't even played against Terre Septentrionale yet. It's got all of the classic hallmarks of the Fleftic banana peel™. Nowhere is any Fleftic sporting campaign more in danger than in the first playoff game. This is where most of our heartbreak across all sports and tournaments have occurred. I wouldn't be surprised if the same thing happens yet again in the next few days. Yes, in recent times we've survived the first round. We survived it in lacrosse, and we survived it in rugby. Maybe it's too early to think about a top three finish, but the way recent events have seemingly gone our way, would it be too much to believe that maybe, this time, we finally have a chance? Or will success in football forever elude us Fleftics? It's something to think about on those sleepless nights, isn't it? XOXO from Graham....

      ABANHFLEFT 2 - 0 BLIUJI
DEANS (28', 63')

Possession
Abanhfleft: 55%
Bliuji: 45%
Shots
Abanhfleft: 12 (7 on target)
Bliuji: 5 (3 on target)
Corners
Abanhfleft: 12
Bliuji: 3
Fouls
Abanhfleft: 22
Bliuji: 12

   BAKER PARK 2 - 0 ABANHFLEFT
BOUCHARD (3')
LOGAN (90+3')

Possession
Baker Park: 52%
Abanhfleft: 48%
Shots
Baker Park: 19 (10 on target)
Abanhfleft: 7 (3 on target)
Corners
Baker Park: 14
Abanhfleft: 7
Fouls
Baker Park: 18
Abanhfleft: 23

[The Andromeda Island Group]

Chernovets, Siovanija
Wednesday evening

The Junior Eagles’ bus arrived at a hotel near the stadium in Chernovets that afternoon after their second consecutive draw yesterday. The Junior Eagles have grown to enjoy the local cuisine in Stelburg and decided to continue patronizing local eateries during their stay.

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

Some of the Junior Eagles went to a place called Beano’s, in a Teus area near the stadium. JC Williams, the team captain, was struggling to hold his fork. He appeared disoriented. His teammate, Pat O’Leary, commented on what happened during the game.

“We were setting up, getting ready for the big win. I had noticed some lightning overhead earlier, but it looked like there wouldn’t be any rain until the game was over.”

“And then, it happened,” Oscar McCready said to the young ladies.

“What happened.”

“I…I…” Williams struggles to say what happened.

“He was struck by lightning,” O’Leary said. “Just as he was about to put it in, he gets zapped. The Tyrants get possession back and play the four corners.”

One of the ladies looks at Williams, noticing his exceptionally light skin.

“Were you that color before?”

“I’m telling you.” McCready shakes his head. “Dude lit up like a lightbulb before he collapsed.”

“Someone up there doesn’t… doesn’t like me,” Williams said.

“Well, you’ll be good as new in a couple of days,” Rachel Lowenthal said. Lowenthal will replace Williams on the front line against the Free Republics.

“At least… at least I got to meet a few of the famous Free Republics Cheerleaders.” Williams smiled.

The girls look at each other.

“Blue and White, ladies? It’s a dead giveaway.”

----------

Some of the Eagles decided to go to Zlatna’s, a Siovanjian place for after one of their fertility goddesses, specifically the one involved with plants and agriculture. Harper Thomas has a number of his teammates and guests gripped by his story.

“You could feel it,” Thomas said. “He was all ‘Don’t make me angry. You won’t like me when I’m angry.’”

Harper Thomas builds up to his story.

“So, we’re up 3-2. One of their guys gets the ball, and he’s coming. He’s about 5’5”. I felt like I could take him, until he started changing.”

“Changing. Really?”

“I’m serious. When he gets the ball, he looks like a normal person, right? By the time he gets up to me,… Well, that’s a horse of a different color.”

“You’re full of…”

“Dude, you weren’t there. He transformed. By the time he got to me, the string bean had turnt into the Jolly Green Giant.”

“His name musta been Rex, ‘cause he was like a Ty-ranno-saurus,” teammate Foreman added.

“So what’d you do?”

“What you think? I got the hell out of the way is what I did.”

Foreman, sitting next to Thomas, confirms his story with a nod. Thomas turns to the group of ladies who had gathered around.

“So, what can you fine young ladies tell us about the Free Republic squad?”

“What?”

“Harper Thomas, Andromeda Junior Eagles. You’re cheerleaders with the Free Republics.”

“Your tennis shoes are blue and white, ladies,” Foreman says. “My name’s Brad. What’s yours?”

----------

Coach Fleming decided to visit the stadium where the Junior Eagles would meet the Blue and White on Friday. She shows her credentials to the stadium staff, then finds her way to what would be their locker room. She takes a ball from the locker room and walks out to the pitch.

Looking at the sky, Coach Fleming marvels at the colors of the sky hanging over the stadium. She feels a light, cool breeze blowing through the empty stadium. She closes her eyes for a brief moment, listening to the wind.

Fleming opens her eyes, goes to the bench and takes her shoes off. She then throws the ball on to the pitch and dribbles it to the center circle.

“Not too hard. Not too soft. Good earth. Just right.”

Fleming breathes in the crisp evening air and wiggles her toes in the grass. She takes a deep breath, then dribbles the ball down field up to the goal. She outmaneuvers imaginary defenders along the way.

“We’ve got a good chance.”

She kicks the ball from about 10 yards out. She watches it sail just inside the upper left-hand corner of the goal.

“We’ve got a good chance,” Coach Fleming says to herself. She wiggles her toes in the grass and takes in another deep breath of crisp evening air before grabbing the ball.

“We just might be due. We just might.”

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2025
Notebook: Out & About in Bukovets--Part 2
by Fiona Devlin, National Soccer Writer

Another colleague from Baker Park, covering the U18's for the first time, asked me over lunch one afternoon how the FAC approach organizing the arrangements differs from the first time when I was in Abanhfleft. One of the biggest differences is that there are more media covering the event now, so we certainly don't have the same access to the staff that we were fortunate to enjoy then. I don't think I could do a story like my review of SWC 5 now, mainly because of the lack of "insider" knowledge we were able to glean.

And that is not necessarily a bad thing, because the FAC still treats us wonderfully. Sasha Henderson, who is the Director of Media, is in charge here for the first time and we in the press have always had a great relationship with her, and all of the Media department staff. Unusually--compared to what reporters from other nations have told me-- we stay in the same the same hotel as the team, and are invited to breakfast with them every morning.

We've been to see a couple of museums on off days, and had a really excellent traditional meal one evening. I've seen some groups of BP supporters out and around, and the local population are generally similar to us on first impression--a bit reserved, but warm up after a bit of formality is dispensed with.

It won't until be the knockouts that we'll have a chance to see a bit more of the country and I'll be glad, not that I haven't enjoyed Bukovets immensely. When we get that chance, perhaps I'll be able to come back and report on what we see there. For now, thanks for reading!

[Free Republics]

The Republican defense had looked really shaky in the first 2 matches against Equestria and Lochario. Now, against Trolleborg, which their coach was convinced was just a new name for the nation of Felix, they looked like a completely different team. This was exactly what Sir Koby Theodore wanted. The Felix "Trolls", who were famously given that nickname by Sporting World journalist Nova Hellstrom, were one of the most bitter Republican rivals during Theodore's generation and a nation that Theodore harbored a special hatred for even years later. They were responsible for that debacle where he was accused of "raping" some drunk girl who had said yes. That turned into a major international incident involving Consul Kyle Bolton and Soccer General Rule Theriault getting arrested in The Sarian, the Navy intervening to rescue them, the future Lucia Bolton saying on live RWC programming that Kyle could "rape me any time he wants" and eventually Koby being sent away to Saintland for a year to train with the future King Andreas.

It had been 17 years since those events and now there was a movie in production about those events. Not a day went by without Koby Theodore thinking about how much he hated the Trolls and regretting his team's failure to lift the trophy 13 years again when Felix hosted the World Cup. While there was no evidence that Trolleborg had anything to do with Felix and while Felixians absolutely hated the "Troll" nickname, nobody was going to tell the Republican coach that Trolleborg wasn't Felix.

The Republican team, who were too young to remember the Group of Death from 17 years ago or the outrageous decision to force the team to travel to Legalese for the World Cup final 16 years ago, just wanted to win the game. They were more motivated by the promise of a Daisy Plus marathon. Amy Ashbolt and Faith Marshall each scored within the first 10 minutes to quickly put the Republicans up 2 goals to none. A motivated Republican defense closed Trolleborg down for most of the match, holding them without a shot on goal for over an hour.

Toward the end of the match, Karsten Gould would pass to Torfinn Jivoglot. The Republicans thought he was offside and waited for the whistle after Alexis Campbell just missed Jivoglot's shot. However, it was not forthcoming as Jivoglot was clearly onside. As the minutes counted down toward the end of the match, Trolleborg would obtain a corner after a Campbell save and they brought everybody forward including goalkeeper Morten Kerr. The Morten Gronquist corner would be headed away to safety by Risae Kan. Archie White was the fastest player on the Republican side and once Kan headed the ball away, he took off running toward the ball. Archie got to the ball and accelerated down the pitch until he could dribble the ball into the net for a match clinching goal.

The following day, the Republican team had their afternoon marathon. While it was only to have been 3 movies per the agreed upon rules, Koby Theodore awarded the right to pick a 4th movie to Risae Kan after getting unanimous consent from the team. While the coach was not a fan of the movies his team was watching, most of his players were and he was willing to sacrifice for the good of his team. After the marathon ended, they spent the remainder of the day and the following morning doing film study on The Andromeda Island Group. Andromeda were mainly known as a basketball nation that had once been at the top back in the old days of the IBC but nobody had beaten them in the group stage.

One thing was for certain: One of the teams playing in that Round of 16 match would suffer their first and only defeat of the Sporting World Cup. The other would advance to the quarterfinals and move 1 game closer to placing their nation's name on the trophy formerly known as the Jasper Chuter Trophy forever...

[Sajnur]

No great Escape Needed

No great escape was needed for Sajnur's Under-18 football team, with wins over Devonta and Freeport securing top spot in Group H. Sajnur have thus secured a Round of 16 match against Silver beach, who secured second in Group G with a 0-0 draw with the Appalachian Nation, beating the latter on goals scored.

Important in both victories was an improvement in the defence, with Olah Pracia and Gjuka showing the promise that makes them the best under-18 centre backs in Sajnur, improving considerably from their performance against Huelavia, and Silja Jorse dealing wonderfully with opposing left wingers. Alton Matuska and Stella Moranici have also shown great talent and defensive skill on the left side of the pitch, and together the Sajnuran defensive unit conceded just one goal in the last two matches. Against Devonta, Sajnur held 71% of the possession and took thirteen shots at goal, eight on target, while preventing Devonta from registering a single shot all game, creating that rarest of things in Sajnur, a clean sheet. The Sajnuran attack, meanwhile, was as lethal as it always has been. Silja Jorse had a hand in the first goal with a trademark tackle and counter, the Devontan ball carrier left on their back and the Devontan defenders left in the dust, Silja sprinting seventy yards to deliver a cross for Olga Turei to head to goal. The second goal was started by a dazzling sequence of passes, started by Pracia, and finished off with a through pass by Kolosa Matlaba to Ella Ciuru, who curled in for 2-0. The third and final goal for Sajnur was off an Ella Ciuru corner, and Toljo Latvala rose up over the Devontans to head powerfully to finish the match off.

Freeport, unfortunately, soiled the sheets in the Pomorie Arena as they actually took an early lead with their third shot at goal, their second on target. Thankfully, the equine opponents would register just two more shots all game, neither on target, and Sajnur would score three in the second half to take the top of Group H from the horses. Ella Ciuru was involved in all three goals in a player of the match performance. Her first goal was a spectacle of ball skills as she breezed past six Freeporters, nutmegging two of them and rouletting another, before blasting the ball to the top corner. The second goal was from a Ciuru free kick, brought upon by Silja Jorse being fouled on the wing. Ciuru launched the ball over the wall and into the box for a waiting Olga Turei who beat her defender to give Sajnur the lead. That lead would never be lost, and stoppage time provided icing for the cake as Ciuru sent a pass over the Freeport backline to a bolting Jorse who volleyed the ball past the keeper to send the stadium into rapture. The fans in the stadium had indeed been belting out the song of their sectarian rivals in a display of solidarity, and the Jorse goal capped off a joyous day for the host fans as well as the Sajnuran fans.

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Round of 16


Siovanija & Teusland 2–0 Trolleborg (scorinated by Banija)
Cosumar 3–3 Chromatika (4–4 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Terre Septentrionale 0–0 Abanhfleft (1–0 AET)
Hapilopper 2–1 Freeport
Free Republics 1–0 The Andromeda Island Group
Aquitlia 3–1 Tamgu
Baker Park 3–0 Oberour Ar Moro
Sajnur 1–3 Silver Beach

Quarterfinal Fixtures

Siovanija & Teusland vs Cosumar, at Olimpski-Stadion, Borograd
Terre Septentrionale vs Hapilopper, at Nationalstadion, Stelburg
Free Republics vs Aquitlia, at Energija-Arena, Chernovets
Baker Park vs Silver Beach, at Draistadion, St. Jakob

[Hapilopper]

Nationalstadion, Stelburg, Teusland
The Round of 16: Hapilopper v. Freeport
Dominic Probst and Thom Perkins, the head coach of the senior Hapilopper National Football Team, took their box seats and got ready for, what they hoped, was the first of three matches they’d see in this stadium, the national stadium of this country. They had high hopes for the Little Haps, as did many back home in Hapilopper. Training had gone well for the team as they prepared to face Freeport, and the team felt more than ready to face the challenge.

It had even gone well for Jerold Dickman, who had to work extra hard to work off an entire large pizza and a two-liter bottle of soda. However, he, like the rest of the Little Haps, had been fired up when they were presented with the Playoff Special uniforms, to the point that they were ready to do anything that it took to get victory.

By the time for the start of the match, the Little Haps had worked themselves up into a lather and were ready to kick some serious ass. They knew what they had to do. They had to outplay the team from Freeport and they would make it to the quarterfinals and play either Abanhfleft or Terre Septentrionale. And outplay they did.

In the 41st minute, Dean Anson passed one to Peter Robson, who liked what he saw and fired it into the back of the net to make it 1-0 in favor of the Hapiloppians. But at that point, something went terribly wrong. As Robson leaped in the air to celebrate his goal, he landed wrong on his right foot, twisting his ankle in a way ankles were not meant to twist. Peter was hurt, and hurt bad. At the very least, he was out for the rest of the match, and possibly beyond. It was clear that he would need a replacement, and surprisingly, it was Morris Jamison, the star forward from Conrad Saylor High in Hapilopper City, not Shelley Linwood, who was #3 on the forwards’ depth chart. Regardless, Morris appeared ready for the challenge and hit the ground running.

Seeing Robson’s injury, Dominic and Thom rushed from their box seats down to the locker room to see how Peter was doing. When they got there, they saw physio Brian Reynolds taking a look at Peter’s right ankle.

“AHHH, SHIT!” Peter cried in pain.

“Yeah, this doesn’t look good,” Brian said, inspecting Peter’s ankle. It didn’t look broken, but it sure looked sprained.

“How does it look?” Dominic asked, a look of concern filling his face.

“Well, we’ll be sending him over to get this ankle x-rayed, but I don’t think he’ll be playing again this tournament,” Brian replied. “The x-ray is precautionary, more than anything else, you know, just to make sure it’s not broken, but I don’t think it is. Could be wrong though.”

“Well, let us know,” Dominic said.

At that very moment, the group of people in the locker room could hear loud cheering from outside, coupled with some whooping from in another room.

“HOT DAMN, I’M GLAD WE GOT THAT GUY!” someone shouted in the other room.

Dominic walked into the other room to see what the commotion was about. It was Morris. He had gotten a pass from Kerry Spalding and handled it beautifully, sending it in to make it 2-0.

Meanwhile, back on the field, the celebration was pretty spirited. Not much was expected from Morris Jamison, but he had made the most of the opportunity and scored against a very competent Freeport side. He had impressed thoroughly, which was good since he was likely going to be replacing Robson for the quarterfinal.

After a player from Freeport got one in the 78th minute, the score was 2-1, and that’s how it ended, with Hapilopper on their way to the quarterfinals to face Terre Septentrionale, a nation that Hapilopper had faced a number of times in both football and baseball in the past. But facing the Nordiques was not the first thing on the mind of the Little Haps at that point.

Peter had been sent in for x-rays, and the Haps got the worst news. His ankle had been broken. Peter Robson would be out for the remainder of the Sporting World Cup, and the team would have to depend on Morris Jamison or Shelley Linwood at the second striker position for the remainder of the SWC. Peter was devastated and had to be consoled as he received the news. He had been hurt and on something as trivial as celebrating a goal.

Reporters, not surprisingly, asked Garnett Sydney, the head coach, about the injury.

“Just a freak thing, you know?” Garnett said sadly. “It’s something people have done thousands of times. They jump into the air, celebrate a goal and land. Pete just landed wrong. It wasn’t anything on anybody, nobody’s fault, just a bad deal. I hope he can recover soon because he’s a hell of a guy and hot prospect for Hapiloppian football. He’ll be one of those ready for when Ernie Stevenson’s done playing.”

ROBSON BREAKS ANKLE
IN FREAK ACCIDENT

-Headline from the Hapilopper
City Herald

As Peter flew back to Hapilopper to get his ankle operated on, he watched the news reports from the match and then saw what Garnett said about him. He also saw what Dom Probst said about him.

“He’ll get better, we hope,” Dominic said. “He’s one of the real stars of the future in the Dominion. He’s a good kid and a great ballplayer. If he can get back to full strength, and we really hope he does, he’ll be beating the world on the grandest stage of them all.”

Peter turned off the television and broke down. He had the confidence of his head coach and the head of footballing in Hapilopper, but he wasn’t sure if he would ever get back to the level of football he had been playing with this broken ankle. Would the surgery go alright? Would his ankle heal properly? Would he get back to being a crucial piece of whatever team he played for? None of those questions had any answers at this point.

He looked out the window of the plane and wondered if he would have to consider taking up another sport. He really hoped not. He loved football. He wanted to be the next Ernie Stevenson. Those answers would come out in the next few weeks.

[Free Republics]

The Republicans had reached the quarterfinals after a sloppy match played in a heavy wind. With winds approaching 25 miles per hour, players on both teams had trouble maintaining their footing and shot after shot sailed far away from the net. The difference in the match came after Amy Ashbolt tripped over the ball in the scoring area. The official in the match had missed what happened but saw Andromeda Island Group defender Harper Thomas in the vicinity. He immediately blew his whistle and, with the clock reading just over 88 minutes, he awarded the Republicans a penalty kick and Thomas a red card.

As Archie White prepared to take the penalty kick, Faith Marshall whispered in his ear: "This is the match. Don't miss!" White walked up to the ball slowly and faked a shot with his right foot, sending Andromedan goalkeeper Andrea Ferguson to the left. Then, he put his left foot on the ball and hit it off the crossbar. Then, his shot ricocheted into the right post and into the back of the net. The Republicans led 1 to nil on a penalty kick for a foul that only happened in the official's imagination. The next few minutes passed by and the margin held.

As the Republicans headed for the locker room, FBC sideline reporter Alice Wade caught up to Koby Theodore:

Alice Wade - Sir Theodore, your team has now advanced to the Quarterfinals on a controversial penalty kick goal. What are your thoughts?

Koby Theodore - I wouldn't call our goal controversial. That guy from the other team should learn not to trip opposing players in the box.

Alice Wade - Come on, everybody saw that she fell over the ball.

Amy Ashbolt overheard and inserted herself into the interview.

Amy Ashbolt - That's right. I feel so bad for him. That's not the way we wanted to win this match but when somebody makes a mistake, you have to capitalize on it. Hopefully Harper's red card will be retroactively rescinded because it wasn't fair to punish him for something the ball did!

Alice Wade - So you didn't purposely take a dive?

Amy Ashbolt - Of course not! We're not a dirty team.

Koby Theodore - That's the problem with this team. They're a bunch of Girl Scouts. Their lack of a killer instinct is going to be their undoing some day but at least they have enough sense to take what fate gives them.

Alice Wade - But those "Girl Scouts" are headed to the Quarterfinals.

Koby Theodore - They've got talent. We wouldn't have taken these kids into our system if we didn't think they were capable of getting us to our goal of winning a World Cup on our home soil.

Alice Wade - What about more immediate goals?

Koby Theodore - I absolutely believe they are capable of going all the way in this tournament but they must be willing to do whatever it takes like true Republican National Soccer Team players.

Alice Wade - I will leave it at that.

After returning to the locker room, the Republicans discovered that they'd be facing Aquitlia, a newcomer whom they knew relatively little about. Theodore felt it would be important to keep his team focused on their next opponent rather than a possible semifinal match against Baker Park, who were fast becoming a powerhouse at the senior level. It would be dangerous to overlook their opponents just because they'd never heard of them...

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Die Stelburger Zeitung

Sport

Dezelac Dominant on Debut

The 60,000 spectators at the Olimpski-Stadion on a rainy night in Borograd were treated to an exceptional performance by young Denis Dezelac.

For Dezelac, the young Olympia Borograd youth product, it is hopefully the first of many games he will play on that hallowed ground for his club and country. Speaking to RBC Sport before the game, the 16-year old said: “I can’t wait. It’s been a dream my whole life, and to be given this opportunity in this situation is something I’m really grateful for. I’m looking forward to making our country proud tonight.” Dezelac also revealed that Olympia Borograd star forward Krasimir Kynev had reached out to him before the game to wish him the best of luck.

Dezelac’s entry into the team for the Round of 16 fixture against Trolleborg was part of an overall style change from Goldhorns manager Slava Tarisov. The Goldhorns had used a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout the group stage, but now switched to a 4-4-2 formation with Dezelac up top alongside Erik Moselle, who had put up 6 goals in the group stage. In the midfield, wingers Lojze Kokalj and Slava Luzhkov lined up beside Damir Cvetkov and Julian Werner, while at the back it was the usual set-up of Neurath, Maksimov, Skrinjar and Wimmer, Julijan Koprvic getting the start in goal.

There was certainly pressure on the Goldhorns going into the match with Trolleborg: the host side of the Sporting World Cup had a decent group stage campaign, and with Erik Moselle leading the way, the national supporters and media began to speculate that perhaps a deep run at the tournament was possible. Trolleborg, however, provided an excellent counter to that. Having won their first match 5-1, they finished 2nd in Group B after a 3-1 loss on the final matchday against the Free Republics. This game was not going to be easy for sure.

The match also served as the first chance the Borograd crowd got to see the national U18 team up close and personal, with the team having played all of its group stage matches in Stelburg. Now, in the national capital, it was time for the team to really take their play to another level. It was also an opportunity for Kokalj, Cvetkov and Dezelac to play in front of what will be one day soon their home crowd. The national anthem rang out with pride, as did chants for each of the Olympia players involved in the starting XI on the day.

Trolleborg were also lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, looking to attack the Goldhorns quickly and perhaps try to get themselves an advantage early. But Maksimov and Skrinjar were on top of things, Maksimov making a key tackle on Fintan Akker early in the game to keep him away from a great opportunity. The Goldhorns had allowed Trolleborg a few early chances, but quickly grew into the game and took it over for themselves.

The Goldhorns proved exceptionally strong in playing along the flanks here, due to the great skill of the wingers Kokalj and Luzhkov. Kokalj, who has been perhaps overall the best Goldhorn at this tournament, looked strong in particular. He made a brilliant run to get into the box before playing off for Moselle, but his shot was just off the mark. The Goldhorns continued, however, to put pressure on Trolleborg and it seemed likely a goal would eventually come.

After a shot by Luzhkov was tipped out by Morten Kerr, the Goldhorns were given a corner. Luzhkov swung it in, but it was headed clear by Ceel Kolding. Kolding had a very strong game for his country on the day, but in this particular case his header was picked up by Julian Werner outside the box. Werner found Kokalj on the wing, who used his creativity and technical skill to beat Jaan Berg, before sending a quick pass in for Denis Dezelac. Dezelac wouldn’t mess up this golden chance, and he fired it past Kerr for his first international goal and to give Siovanija & Teusland the 1-0 lead.

1-0 would remain the score as the Goldhorns and Trolleborg headed off at halftime. Coming back out after the break, Trolleborg resumed their attack from earlier in the game. A brilliant save by Koprvic on a header from Akker kept the score at 1-0. Trolleborg were growing back into the game, but the Goldhorns were still looking quite dangerous on the counter. The match was shaping up to be a ‘next goal wins’ thriller already, as momentum would surely fully swing for whoever could take control.

To the delight of the Borograd crowd, it was in fact the Goldhorns who would do so. A great tackle by Novak Skrinjar took the ball away from Anton Bregelin, and Skrinjar sent a forward pass for a breaking Lojze Kokalj. Kokalj made a well-timed through ball right into the path of Denis Dezelac. Dezelac then made a pair of excellent moves to beat both Theo Korta and Kolding to get a 1 on 1 chance with Kerr, who he beat to the bottom right post. It was an excellent goal that earned him an ovation from the Borograd crowd as they celebrated the 2-0 lead.

There wasn’t too much in the game the rest of the way, as the second Dezelac goal seemed to take all the energy out of Trolleborg and the Goldhorns weren’t too concerned with pressing their advantage any further. Thus it ended 2-0, with Siovanija & Teusland proceeding to the Quarterfinal of the Sporting World Cup.

“He’s a special player, and I knew when I got the ball to him it was going to be something special,” said Lojze Kokalj on Dezelac’s wonderful goal in the second half. Kokalj won’t be joining up with Dezelac in the Olympia youth team this year, he is instead on loan at Kawarthas DFC in Kelssek as they seek to earn promotion to that country’s top league. The first team football should be a brilliant opportunity for him. “What a player he is. It wasn’t my best day at the office today, but I’m glad it was his! That was incredible to be a part of,” said strike partner Erik Moselle of Dezelac’s efforts.

The end of Trolleborg’s run in the Sporting World Cup, and with it the good relationships their supporters have built in this country, was commemorated as well by many. The fans in Borograd clapped their team off in a sign of respect, while Stelburg Mayor Johan Kirken stated: “Proud of our Goldhorns today as they advance to the Quarterfinals. We also offer commiserations to our friends from Trolleborg, who played a great tournament. You are always welcome in Stelburg!”

Next up for the Goldhorns are Cosumar, who defeated Chromatika on penalties in Vlaikograd to advance to the Quarterfinal. The Goldhorns will be hoping to meet a tired Cosumar side at the Olimpski-Stadion at their best, and have the opportunity to secure a first-ever Quarterfinal win for a national football team at any level. 4 Quarterfinal appearances, 4 Quarterfinal losses it has been for the national team since their first appearance: Baker Park, Valanora (x2) and Cosumar. That Cosumar loss, 6-2 at AOCAF 58, will be at the front of the minds of many Goldhorn fans when they take on the Wyrmlings in this Quarterfinal matchup. It is expected that the Goldhorns will keep with their 4-4-2 formation and that Denis Dezelac will get another chance to show his skill to the world.

We’ll continue to bring you complete coverage of the Sporting World Cup here in the United Republics, as Siovanija & Teusland take on Cosumar in a Quarterfinal clash. Come on you Goldhorns!

[Terre Septentrionale]

Abanhfleft gooning it up, Terre Septentrionale wins in extra time

Stahlberg, Teusland - Abanhfleft looked like fools in the Sporting World Cup's round of 16, especially during the extra time when two of their players received red cards for their dirty play. Apparently the Fleftics confused Terre Spetentrionale with another nation from our region, the Alpine Union, which they have a rivalry with. Coincidentally, the Alpine Union and the Nordiques have similar kits and players with the same names, but it's just a coincidence, we're not related to them.

Abanhfleft dominated the game. Not only the game proper, they also dominated physically. The Fleftics attacked at the 16th minute when Dante Gong passed to Jaime Deans who dribbled and passed to Giovanna Humble in the penalty area. Gordon Hackshaw slides to steal the ball but he trips her. Luckily he touched the ball first and didn't recieve a card and the play continued. Terre Septentrionale attacked at the 39th minute when Kieron Cockerill-Docherty passed to Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz who passed back to Cockerill-Docherty. Cockerill-Docherty dribbled and made a cross to Kévin Cauchon who shoots but Dennis Mull makes a fantastic save. The score remains 0-0 at the halftime.

Abanhfleft attacked again at the 77th minute when Harlan Waters IV passed to Janett Socia who made a short pass to Katlyn Ivery. She shoots but the ball is deflected by Romain Maheux de Monaghan and goes over the net. It's a corner kick for the Fleftics. Harlan Waters IV takes the corner kick, he kicks the ball in the penalty area, Rodger Heckel jumps and heads the ball but it goes wide right. The regular time ended by the score of 0-0 and we go to extra time!

Abanhfleft's unexplicable dirty play intensified during extra time, and things got worse at the 120th minute when on a throw in Kévin Cauchon and Harlan Waters IV were side to side. Cauchon seem to have said something to Waters IV that triggered his anger and he punched Cauchon in the face. Then some players onto the field were pushing and shoving each others, and Kimber Congdon, who subbed in at the start of extra time, teared out Urszula Pietrzak-Zapolska's hair. Both Waters IV and Congdon received red cards while Dennis Mull and Gordon Hackshaw received yellow cards. After that brawl, Gabriel Pinsonneault subbed in for Kévin Cauchon and the 4th referree announced 10 minutes of added time. Then at the 120 + 10 minutes Dennis Mull makes an easy save and he gives the ball to his defenseman Goro Kimura. Kimura tried to pass to Shabeeba Al-Naqvi but the ball is intercepted by Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz who passed to Gabriel Pinsonneault who kicks the ball and it's a goal! Terre Septentrionale won 1-0 in extra time against Abanhfleft!

BOXSCORE

120 + 10 minute: Gabriel Pinsonneault assisted by Grzegorz Hajdukiewicz

YELLOW CARDS

28th minute: Melanie Griffey
56th minute: Kieron Cockerill-Docherty
82nd minute: Maurits Aartsen
111th minute: Jaime Deans
120th minute: Dennis Mull
120th minute: Gordon Hackshaw

RED CARDS

120th minute: Harlan Waters IV
120th minute: Kimber Congdon

Quarterfinals against Hapilopper

Terre Septentrionale's head coach Mieczyslawa Gorzelak-Borkowska told the medias that Abanhfleft's dirty play has no place in soccer and she hopes the Sporting World Cup comittee based in the Free Republics will suspend both Harlan Waters IV and Kimber Congdon for the entirety of next year's Sporting World Cup. She also deplores that NationStates tournaments are usually lenient on these types of behaviour.

While Abanhfleft' is trying to set up a rivalry between us and them, the Reprezentacja Nordycki has a real rivalry with Hapilopper, a team who beat us twice in the last baptism of fire. The under 18 team will try to venge their professionnal counterparts. Kévin Cauchon will miss the quarterfinal game with a facial injury and will be replaced by Marijan Krstulovic-Orsolic rather than Pinsonneault. Coach Gorzelak-Borkowska said that Krstulovic-Orsolic, 18 years old, is more experienced than Pinsonneault and he's playing his last under 18 world cup while Pinsonneault, 16 years old, will be able to participate in the next two under 18 world cups. Hapilopper's Peter Robson will also miss this game with an ankle injury. Either Morris Jamison or Shelley Linwood will replace him.

Katarzyna Krzykowska,
junior writer, La tribune septentrionale

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Quarterfinals

Siovanija & Teusland 1-0 Cosumar (Scorinated by Baker Park)
Hapilopper 2–1 Terre Septentrionale
Free Republics 0–0 Aquitlia (2–0 AET)
Baker Park 5–4 Silver Beach

Semifinal Fixtures

Siovanija & Teusland vs Hapilopper, at Draistadion, St. Jakob
Free Republics vs Baker Park, at Energija-Arena, Chernovets

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2025
Under 18's don't expect day at the Beach in QF
by Fiona Devlin, National Soccer Writer

The Commonwealth National Team will look to advance past the last eight for the first time since their win at the Sporting World Cup 5 in Abanhfleft, when they square off against Silver Beach in their second consecutive match played in St Jakob at the Draistadion.

They secured advancement for the fourth time in five appearances in the tournament with a convincing 3-0 win over Oberour Ar Moro, the team's third shutout; now they will face the only group runner-up to advance, led by Kiggwe Siakam, the Banijan who led his country's squad to the title in the last edition--getting past BP at this same stage on penalties--who is leading the nation back into multiverse competition after a long hiatus.

On paper, it shapes up to be a matchup of contrasts, as the Bees have a squad full of experience, and have shown their scoring prowess as well their excellence at the defensive end against the newcomers who have and up & down 4 matches in arriving at this point. But matches don't play out on paper, so the staff have warned their charges not to look ahead to a possible semi-final berth.

"We don't want any talk of what might happen next until after we get through this fixture. They (Silver Beach) have an excellent manager leading them, and he knows how to get a team through these knockout stages", manager Zoe Montgomery said in addressing the media. "I don't think we've played a total 90 minutes of excellent soccer here yet, and I think we will need to show that we can to win here."

lineup vs Silver Beach: Callaway; McFarlaine, Nelson, Schulman; Wiley, Taylor, Boyle, Altman; Diaz; Price, Bouchard

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Arrests following BP youth match (UPDATED)
(CPA) St Jakob, Siovanija & Teusland--City Police here in St Jakob are reporting a number of arrests outside the Draistadion following the match between the Commonwealth of Baker Park Under-18 National Team and the Under-18 National Team from Silver Beach.

At the conclusion of the 5-4 win for BP, additional support was requested by City Police to handle the crowds exiting the facility on the east & north sides of the 60,000 stadium, where a small group made clear that they were intending to do property damage in the immediate vicinity; having attracted the attention of local law enforcement, the contingent of National Police Unit and Frontier & Border Patrol agents who had been assigned to undercover work in the United Republics assisted in apprehension of 24 suspects, of whom 20 were identified as Commonwealth nationals, with the other 4 being known to the St Jakob Constabulary.

[Hapilopper]

Nationalstadion, Stelburg, Teusland
The Quarterfinals: Hapilopper v. Terre Septentrionale
It was already becoming one of the most interesting rivalries in international sport. The Haps and the Nordiques seemed to find each other a lot in sporting competition, and whenever they played, it always made for some interesting headlines in one way or another. The quarterfinals of the Sporting World Cup proved to be no exception. Where other matches were known for violent incidents, unruly behavior or sheer dominance, this one was known for just how good the match was.

There were no unfortunate incidents. There were no cheap shots, no highly cynical challenges – even if Jerold Dickman had returned to the pitch after serving a one-match suspension. There was just some real smooth football played on both sides. It was clear that the Haps and the Nords was going to be international football’s next great rivalry, and it showed.

For thirty minutes, there was no score, but it didn’t mean the two teams weren’t trying. Kenny Shelley of the Little Haps and Romain Maheux de Monaghan, his counterpart on the Nordiques, were both making some tremendous saves, and at least from Kenny’s perspective, it was clear he was really, really into it. Kenny would start shouting at both his teammates and at the Nordiques after every save, almost as to remind everyone why he was picked.

But eventually, the Nordiques got past Kenny’s defenses, and Benjamin “Sancho” Sanche was the culprit. It was the 33rd minute, and Sancho fired it past Kenny in one of the most beautiful goals anyone had seen all year. Even Venerable Television announcer Jon Arnold had to admit it was pretty cool.

“Damn,” Jon muttered. “That’s one of the most impressive goals I have ever seen. Shame it was from the Nords and not the Haps, but this one’s far from over.”

And it wasn’t over. In the 38th minute, Kerry Spalding jostled with Nevenka Martinovic-Hasanbegovic for the ball. It was quite a tussle, but after stealing it, he proceeded on a breakaway, and what a breakaway it was. He looked for a forward to finish up the sequence and tie the game, but there was nobody there. Toby Bryson was being accosted by smart Nordique defending, and Morris Jamison was out of position, having been distracted by Walter van den Dikkenberg. But George Hale was open.

“Hey, HALE!” Kerry shouted. “DO THE DO!”

That was George’s cue. Kerry fired it to George, who immediately fired it at the Nordique net and past Romain at goal from 15 yards out. The match was tied 1-1.

For another 45 minutes, the match appeared to be a stalemate. These two teams were evenly matched, and it made for a fantastic night of football. On social media, fans were reveling in what had quickly become one of the best rivalries in international sport. In Hapilopper, meanwhile, the nerves were real. There was a real sense that the Nordiques could take advantage of an opening and make the most of it, and they almost did a few times. However, the work of Kenny and defenders like Fabian Treloar and yes, Jerold Dickman, kept the match tied.

In the 79th minute, Dickman appeared to redeem himself for his misbehavior. Kévin Cauchon had the opening of a lifetime. By all rights, he should have put it right into the back of the net and made it 2-1 for the Nordiques. Kenny was out of position and by no means would have saved it. But Dickman went ran like hell, straight at Cauchon, and just when it looked like the Nords were going to score a sure goal, Dickman ran in front of Cauchon and kicked the ball as hard as he could the other way. He knew what he had done, and damn was he ever proud of it. Dickman celebrated the clearance as if he had just won the match for the HNFT, and actually, he kind of did.

The hustle from Dickman, he being the ballplayer known for his violent conduct, his failed attempts at wooing an Appalachian player and his gut-busting performance with an entire pizza, had fired up the entire team and made his stock rise in the eyes of many in Hapiloppian sport. For instance, senior team head coach Thom Perkins, watching in a box seat in the Nationalstadion, became giddy with excitement over seeing Dickman’s fiery play.

“Holy SHIT!” Perkins said, a huge smile coming over his face as he turned to look at other reps from the Hapilopper Football Association. “Did you see him turn on the boosters and run like hell to stop that goal? That was brilliant!”

It got the Little Haps going. In the 83rd minute, Dean Anson stole the ball from Kieron Cockerill-Docherty and ran like hell. This time, Morris Jamison was not out of position. Dean appeared to just give Morris the ball, Morris turned on the jets and fired it into the back of the net. Hapilopper now led 2-1, and that’s how it ended, in spite of some balls-out play from the Nordiques to end the match, in an effort to tie the match up.

It had been yet another hair-raising match from the Haps, and it was another chapter in the budding story between Hapilopper and Terre Septentrionale, two nations that met each other during the last Baptism of Fire. It also meant another semifinal for a Hapiloppian team in a football tournament. The last one ended with bitter disappointment in the Di Bradini Cup. This one was going to be a tough one, too.

The Little Haps had been drawn against Siovanija and Teusland, the hosts of the Sporting World Cup. They knew that they would have a tall order ahead of them. The Goldhorns were a fantastic team, and the Haps knew that they would be up for a challenge.

In fact, each of the final four teams would certainly make a worthy champion. The Little Haps and the Goldhorns were certainly going to put on a hell of a match, but the team was also casting a wary eye at the Free Republics-Baker Park match. These were teams that had made it to the final four for a real good reason. These were good football teams, to say the very least.

[Free Republics]

The impeachment trial of Consul Kyle Bolton was now officially underway. Senator Emeritus Hillarion Vasin was presiding over the proceedings. Under Republican law, the Senate sat as the jury in an impeachment trial with the senior living Senator Emeritus serving as the presiding judge. The prosecutor was appointed by the Assembly. In this case, the Assembly had appointed Valentin Svensson, the leader of Common Good, as the prosecutor. For his defense, Kyle Bolton had hired Soccer General Rule Theriault's personal attorney Giovanni Ferrari. By law, each side would have the right to call witnesses, in alternating order. By law, an even number of witnesses had to be called on each day and there would be a coin toss to decide which side would have the choice of going first or second on that day. On day 1 of the trial, the defense won the toss and Mr. Ferrari immediately called Soccer General Rule Theriault to the stand.

Hillarion Vasin - The impeachment trial of Consul Kyle Bolton will now begin. The defense has won the toss and elected to go first. I now turn over the floor to the solicitor for the defense, Mr. Giovanni Ferrari

Giovanni Ferrari - Thank you Mr. Vasin. I now call my first witness to the stand. Sir, please state your title and full name for the record.

Rule Theriault - I am Soccer General Rule Invictus Theriault. I am the Soccer General of the Federation of Free Republics.

Giovanni Ferrari - Soccer General Theriault, is it true that Consul Bolton played for your soccer team for 11 years?

Rule Theriault - That is correct.

Giovanni Ferrari - In the time when he played for your soccer team, did you ever have any occasion to question his moral character?

Rule Theriault - I did not.

Giovanni Ferrari - I understand that Kyle Bolton was the team captain for Republican National Team, Limited Liability Company for his entire tenure with the team.

Rule Theriault - That is correct.

Giovanni Ferrari - What was he like as a team captain?

Rule Theriault - Kyle was a leader who always had the best interests of his teammates at the top of his mind. I especially admire his courage in taking the heat for Koby Theodore when there was a smear campaign from Felix involving a false rape accusation.

Valentin Svensson - Objection!

Hillarion Vasin - State your rationale, Mr. Svensson.

Valentin Svensson - I wish to enter into the record some relevant footage from a professional wrestling program.

Hillarion Vasin - Wait your turn, Mr. Svensson. You may present this evidence as one of your witnesses.

Giovanni Ferrari - During the time in which you've known Consul Bolton, how has he behaved in the company of women?

Rule Theriault - Kyle has always been a perfect gentleman.

Valentin Svensson - Objection!

Hillarion Vasin - State your rationale for this objection.

Valentin Svensson - I wish to present evidence that the witness has just committed perjury.

Hillarion Vasin - Objection overruled. If you have evidence that Soccer General Theriault should be held in contempt, please present this evidence to the attorney general.

The questioning of Rule Theriault continued for most of the day. The prosecution decided to hold off on calling a serious witness until the next day as even Valentin Svensson realized the day had not gone well for him and was likely lost regardless. Instead, he chose to show the wrestling footage to the Senate, ultimately airing over 2 hours of old wrestling clips involving Kyle and Lucia Bolton.

---

During the match that night between the Free Republics and Aquitlia, Koby Theodore could not stop thinking about the ongoing impeachment trial of his good friend Kyle Bolton. On the pitch, the Republican U18s were focused on beating their opponents, not the political drama involving one of the national team's most famous ex-players. Cheerleader Michele van Roijen effectively took over the coaching duties for the distracted Theriault. In the end, her decision to bring in Roland Tretyakov for a tired Stephen Bosters would pay off big time as Tretyakov delivered the go-ahead goal in the 92nd minute which would be followed in quick succession by an insurance goal from Archie White in the 97th.

Now there were just 4 teams left in the Sporting World Cup. In the one semifinal, there was a battle between the hosts and the nation whose current senior team had won the BoF title in the Free Republics just a year prior. In the other match was a battle between two of the powerhouses of international soccer. The kids from the Free Republics sought to bring the Sporting World Cup trophy back home for the first time ever while Baker Park's goal was to join Anglatia as the only 2 time champions. The other 3 nations sought to become the 8th different nation to hoist what was once known as the Jasper Chuter Trophy but was now known simply as the Sporting World Cup Trophy. Only one of the four could be the champions...

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2025
BP survives in 9 goal thriller
by Fiona Devlin, National Soccer Writer

At the final whistle, the Commonwealth National Under 18 team seemed to feel a sense of relief rather joy at advancing to the semi-finals of the Sporting World Cup. Their 5-4 win over Silver Beach at the Draistadion in St Jakob ensures they will have at least two matches here. But that is in the future.

It had looked as though the present was going to be a happy occasion in the second straight contest in St Jakob; BP continue to commute from Bukovets to their knockout stage fixtures, so much of the daily routine is comfortable and in familiar surroundings.

But the nation from Sonnel would provide a series of challenges that the U18 Bees would have to conquer to earn a place in the final four.
The Black & Gold started off at a gallop, as they moved confidently through the middle of the pitch and tested the Silverians defense with a series of build ups down the left side. Isabelle Wiley combined with Kurt Taylor and Elena Diaz to execute a clinical display of passing, which eventually found Diaz drawing two defenders and she made a sublime pass to Karrie Price, who fired home from 10 yards, and 7 minutes in, it was 1-0.

Silver Beach began to get their rhythm going afterwards, but once the Commonwealth press got settled in, the back four of the Silverians showed their lack of ability with the ball at feet. Another series of thrusts into the attacking third by the Bees midfield led to the second goal, as Freddie Altman beat the fullback down the wing, cut inside and took a return pass from Mark Bouchard, volleying it past Lieberman and now the lead was two.

In the blink of an eye it was almost 3 when Diaz just missed from 25 yards with a rocket, but the feeling that there was another tally coming soon proved true, as Alonzo Boyle gathered up an errant pass and dribbled 20 yards before firing low to the far post. 30 minutes through, and Baker Park were rolling in the same way they have through most of the tournament.

Sharona Davisdon clawed a score back for Beach 5 minutes before intermission, and the crowd of 45,000 headed for the concourses.

The intensity didn't seem to slack off as the 2nd half got underway, Bouchard tallying a fourth on 53 minutes. Natalie Lachman finished the best attack of the night to that point to make it a two goal deficit again. Diaz had come off just after the Bouchard score with an ankle injury and Shelby Engels came, and 7 minutes after Lachman's goal, Engels headed home a cross from a free kick by Wiley and it was 5-2 with 20 minutes left.

That's when the wheels started to fall off for BP; Jon Schulman saw red for a clumsy challenge on Jordon Sutro in the box, and Caiaphas Lapid slotted home the penalty. Zoe Montgomery brought on Michael O'Connor to take Schulman's spot and also brought Price off to insert Paul Vetter into a defensive midfield position.

Lachman was the beneficiary of the sustained Silver Beach attack against the 10 player Bees side, and she got her second with 4 minutes left in normal time.

Things calmed down afterwards, as BP was able to keep possession in their half of the field through the 3 added minutes and at the whistle, they were headed for a matchup against the Free Republics for a chance to make the final and a chance at their 2nd trophy here.