WORLD CUP 102 ꩜ Roleplay Thread

by **Drawkland** » Thu Oct 01, 2026 7:04 am

World Cup 102 Cycle

Rosters ꩜ Roleplays ꩜ Results

Baptism of Fire 89 ꩜ Host Bid ꩜ Cup of Harmony 94

Helpful Links

WC Discussion Thread - KPB+ Rankings - World Cup 101
Friendly Match Thread - NS Sports Guide & Questions

Welcome to the Roleplay Thread for World Cup 102!

This is the thread where participants of World Cup 102 may post roleplays and other in-character items. Please read below for group draw, scheduling, and other competition information. If you have a question not answered here, consult the host bid (linked above) or ask us in the World Cup Discussion Thread (also linked above)!

While you are free to roleplay anything you wish (within site rules), please keep note of a couple guidelines for this tournament. When RPing about a match with another team, please respect their RP Permissions (which should be found with their roster, if they're doing things right). Also, do not use generative AI to "write" your roleplays. AI use for image generation or translation services is acceptable but MUST be clearly notated in the post. Failure to follow these rules will result in penalties ranging from RP bonus reduction to disqualification.
There is a roster penalty for this tournament, as failing to post a roster can negatively impact the experience for other users! All participants are strongly encouraged to post a roster, even a simple one. Ranked nations will be penalized for failing to post a roster by the time the tournament begins (more information can be found in the bid or the roster thread).
Our current qualifying format features 161 teams, divided into 23 groups of 7. After a double round-robin schedule, the top team in each group will automatically qualify for the World Cup group stage, while the #2 teams will face the #3 teams in single neutral-site playoff games to determine the remaining spots.
The World Cup finals will feature 48 nations divided into 12 groups of 4. The top two finishers in each group (as well as the 8 best remaining 3rd place teams overall) will qualify for the knockout rounds, which will eventually determine the world champions.
Tiebreaker list: Points, Goal Difference, Head-to-Head Results, Coin Flip (OOC scorination of match with only RP bonus used for input).

Groups
The group draw is available below this spoiler. Roster links will be updated prior to the first cutoff.
Qualifying Groups 1–11 will be scorinated by The Holy Empire (and Zwangzug—see schedule). Qualifying Groups 12–23 will be scorinated by Drawkland.

Schedule
Behold the glorious schedule of World Cup 102, beginning with the cutoff times for the hosting team. Note that due to scheduling constraints, the qualifying groups scorinated by The Holy Empire will be scorinated instead by Zwangzug for several matchdays. These are marked in the schedule below.

The Holy Empire: 1730 UTC (8:30pm EEST)
Drawkland: 2300 UTC (7:00pm EDT)
Zwangzug: 0100 UTC (9:00pm EDT)

Dates in UTC

Saturday, October 3: Group Draw (if possible)

Thursday, October 8: Matchday 1

Saturday, October 10: Matchdays 2, 3

Monday, October 12: Matchdays 4, 5

Wednesday, October 14: Matchdays 6, 7

Friday, October 16: Matchdays 8, 9

*Sunday, October 18: Matchdays 10, 11

*Tuesday, October 20: Matchdays 12, 13

*Thursday, October 22: Matchday 14

Saturday, October 24: Qualifying Playoffs

World Cup Finals schedule to be determined. This schedule may also be modified in case of changed qualifying format due to numbers.

* Matchdays with Zwangzug scorinating the Holy Empire's qualifying groups

The hosts are reserving the next two posts for in-character information. After that, any participants are free to post their RPs. Good luck in your quest for the World Cup 102, and have fun!

by **Alasdair I Frosticus** » Thu Oct 01, 2026 7:05 am

Reserved for Holy Empire details.

by **Drawkland** » Thu Oct 01, 2026 7:06 am

Reserved for the Interstellar Empire details.

All other nations may begin posting now!

by **Edsmontik** » Sun Oct 04, 2026 8:13 am

Lightning Sports Presents...
NS FOOTBALL CLUB
The BEST all-platform football simulator out there today.

<-- Prev.

Next -->

Episode 1
BERVAIGN IS BACK, BUT HOW IS HIS CARD?

We all know that Vlakish Bervaign suffered an unfortunate injury after being pummeled against Emkitmebar in the last FDVL season ever, but now that he's healthy and back on the Edsmon roster for the 102nd World Cup, how is his card holding up? Well, let's take a look at the numbers.

While he was originally selected for the IAC26 squad, who would play at home, his injury would lead to emergency replacement Beridien Benner from taking over to fill the empty spot. He might have ultimately not been able to play in the IAC, however he made an appearance in 19 of the 22 FDVL games for FK Austranviige, and would score 24 goals and deliver 6 assists, winning the golden boot despite not even showing up to the last three games. He was very resilient in the match against Emkitmebar either way, surviving several tackles before going down late game. All in all, his season performance was really good.

Now, we get to his card. At the beginning of the FDVL, he was 121 OVR, and since then has remained at 121 OVR. However, his stats and playstyles have changed. Just at the beginning of this year, 2034, he had the Power Shot and Rapid playstyles. While Rapid is considered to be an extremely good playstyle for attackers, Power Sot is not something you'll find yourself using in games often. It does allow you to score some beautiful stunners from far outside the box, but usually your opponent can just tackle the ball away as you power up your shot. The stats he had in game were as followed:

PAC   SHO   PAS   DRI   DEF   PHY   L/R   WR.   STA   SM
130   139   116   117   100   126   4/5   H/L   4★   4★

These stats are not bad at all. His main highlights were for sure the 126 physical, which would make him great for plowing through defenses, and his 139 shooting, which is great for finishing good shots. His Power Shot playstyle would in the end also boost that. He had good pace as well, and 4 Star stamina could easily carry him throughout the game for users who spent him wisely. The High/Low Workrate was also good, allowing him to stay up in the attack more than strikers with High/Medium Workrates. While he is fairly cheap for a 121 OVR at only 22,000 Shards, a lot of people argued against using him due to Power Shot making him "almost useless." However, many did say that he was still useful due to his high shooting and good physicality.

His card would receive an update during the IAC along with most other Edsmon cards. It would be here that he grabs a hold of a playstyle change, from Power Shot and Rapid to Clinical Finisher and Rapid. This card's stats are shown below with increases and decreases.

PAC   SHO   PAS   DRI   DEF   PHY   L/R   WR.   STA    SM 
128   140   116   118   100   126   4/5   H/L   3.5★   4★

Lightning Sports for sure buffed Bervaign, but they also did nerf a few stats as well. Let's take a look. So, there is a very noticeable problem. Bervaign's stamina is lowered to 3.5 stars, and this same update is the update where stamina actually becomes more important. According to Lightning Sports, this is to allow players to increase the depth of their lineups and actually use the substitution feature, making the gameplay a little more realistic. This has obviously made Bervaign users a little mad, but they cannot complain about the increase in shooting. Bervaign already has an extremely high shooting stat, and now, it's been raised more. Unfortunately, this was at the cost of pace though. Even better, Lightning Sports changed Bervaign's Power Shot playstyle to Clinical finisher, solving the problem that so many people have with this card.

At this point in time, Bervaign was noted as a "Cheap Beast" by many, with the only caution when choosing to buy him is considering his stamina. It gets especially worse as he has Rapid, so most people say to use him as a suber substitute or have a substitute ready for him by the 60th game minute.

Next up, we have Bervaign's once again slightly updated card for WC102. His stats are below.

PAC   SHO   PAS   DRI   DEF   PHY   L/R   WR.   STA    SM 
128   141   115   118    99   127   5/5   H/L   3.5★   4★

Now this is amazing news. Lightning Sports just made Bervaign's card one of the best, and they didn't even change his stamina from last time. I will let the stats speak for themselves. No weak foot anymore, increased physical and shooting, the stats that were lowered don't even matter when it comes to how Bervaign is used in game. This is just beautiful. When going up against other cheap 121 rated strikers, he may not be the best or the cheapest, but he surely is up there and a great choice for many people. Thank you for tuning in, and we'll review another card next time. But before you go, below, you can see his current card design.

The kit was handmade and molded onto an image of Xhaka with ChatGPT. No use of AI otherwise*

Hey there! If YOU wish to have one of your own players show up, shoot me a TG here or on Discord (@realprimeomega).

(O.O) · by **TJUN-ia** » Mon Oct 05, 2026 12:56 pm

The Spiral calls for us all. But who will spiral into madness, and who will become the madness itself? That is the question that World Cup 102 hopes to answer, a tournament co-hosted by two nations who both know of chaos, of the ebbs and flows of this ancient tournament and the concepts of immortality in their own unique ways - Drawkland and The Holy Empire. They have seen it all collectively, and so they host edition 102, looking to find a new team to immortalise into legend.

One of the teams taking part in this odyssey into the Spiral is TJUN-ia, in the middle of its 2nd Cycle under Philip van Oosterend and with Felicia Alba as Captain. To say things feel very different from 101 would be an understatement in so many different ways...so let's just list them off.
1) WC101's 0-0-3 Group Stage - making it back to the dance at PvO's first attempt was nice, but producing our worst group stage of all time as a result of it? That wasn't fun at all.

2) We will enter this tournament behind Kimi-Suomi in the rankings for the very first time. Those Finns are starting to do that more often...which, to some, is unacceptable. We were here long before the Huuhkajat, and yet right now, they are ahead due to the fact that they have made back-to-back tournaments. It's an unfamiliar dynamic that many will want to see change very quickly.

3) That Campeonato Esportiva. No one was expecting us to go all the way to the Final in South Newlandia, but that was what PvO managed to do - only falling in extra time to the Ko-Stars. Turning our worst WC Group Stage of all time into our best Regional performance of all time has made everything feel up in the air when it comes to this sport, simply because no one knows if that magic is sustainable or not.

So no one quite knows what to expect from 102, but the format will only add to the chaos - 23 groups of 7 have been formed, with only the winners qualifying automatically and 2nds facing 3rds in a neutral playoff tie for the remaining 21 spots. We have been drawn as the Pot 2 team in Group 2, led by CE 3rd-place finishers Kanzlia, with Carpathia and Ruthenia also looking like a stern test. The group is filled out with Masarya, United Adaikes and two debutants - Austroguinea and Eristar.

So the mission for us in the 12-game campaign is simple: win the group. If not, we would prefer 2nd over 3rd. This campaign will be shorter than most on simple game count, but the prize always remains the same.

GO JAGS!

Schedule (Group 2)
MD1: @Kanzlia (14)
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MD2: vs Austroguinea (382) - Tiankong Stadium, Tiankong
MD3: @Eristar (465)
---------------------------------------------------
MD4: vs Carpathia and Ruthenia (59) - Beregozera Stadium, Szensky
MD5: @United Adaikes (134)
---------------------------------------------------
MD6: BYE
MD7: vs Masarya (107) - Stade de la Victoire, Roi Ville
---------------------------------------------------
MD8: vs Kanzlia (14) - National Stadium, TJUN-ia City
MD9: @Austroguinea (382)
---------------------------------------------------
MD10: vs Eristar (465) - Ke Kahua Pāʻani o Pua Aloalo, Kepu Manu
MD11: @Carpathia and Ruthenia (59)
---------------------------------------------------
MD12: vs United Adaikes (134) - Estadio Universidad Carlandas, Carlandas
MD13: BYE
---------------------------------------------------
MD14: @Masarya (107)

by **Natkr** » Mon Oct 05, 2026 6:52 pm

Launch this Rocket

produced by ReemSports

Welcome back to World Cup coverage on ReemSports all you viewers, sitting on your couches watching at home. It's time for another World Cup qualification cycle, where we endlessly await a Natkrian qualification into the World Cup finals. It's been a lot for the Natkrian national team over the past two years, sacking Kyes Weah to bring in former The Golden Harp manager Sigmund Reynolds, but another failed cycle with no WC qualification and a Cup of Harmony group-stage exit led the Natkrian Football Federation to sack him and kick start a new change for the national team. That change would be Isla Monbury. She was the title-winning manager of CSKA City, leading them to a Natkr Prime League championship and a top 4 finish in her final season for the club. She started a new project under the federation, to lead and develop new players for the national team, in a chance to hopefully succeed. The national team began quite well in the IAC, winning their opening match against Imoto 3-1, securing a 3-3 draw against eventual group winners and rivals Sernet, but getting an underwhelming 1-1 draw against a horrible Delphinon side. They faced Sel Appa in a rematch of a previous knockout match last tournament, which the Green and Blue ended up losing 3-1. Even with the discouraging loss, Isla reminded the team to keep their head up, and in reality, that was the only thing they could do. The tournament did help Isla discover what things she definitely needed to work, and after training with the players during international breaks and surviving a obstacle course in Maritaine, she finally felt ready to make her mark as Natkr look for their ultimate prize: World Cup 102 qualification. It would be grand. It would be beautiful. It would be perfect.

Isla Monbury has brought back the same squad from IAC, just to formulate some potential lineups and develop with the team even more. She wants to keep the same defensive structure she's had ever since the CSKA City days, telling ReemSports in a post-training interview, it's crucial in securing results, especially since the players have spent the last few months obeying her commands and training with her rules for positional discipline and transitions utilizing high intensity. Rather than changing the squad for every tournament, Monbury is letting this new national team project grow together, building the chemistry that will hopefully last a lifetime, creating what she believes might be future tournament contenders. Only someday. Staying true to the original promise of running a hard-working national team project, Monbury isn't relying completely on the current squad when it comes to putting fresh new kids into the team. For the World Cup 102 squad, she gave senior call-ups to some of the best young talents in Natkrian football: U21 standouts Julian Brandt, Javi Ramirez, Orin Blackwell. Julian Brandt had already made his senior debuts in the Independent Associations Championships, known as an up-and-coming youngster, winning the U15 World Cup and getting a early transfer to Natkrian giants Shew Shore FC. But Javi Ramirez and Orin Blackwell worked hard to earn their spots as well, as they made their mark in the recently concluded Di Bradini Cup 62, blocking strikers from gaining space and scoring goals to help Natkr advance. Inviting them to the World Cup squad really shows that to any kid tearing it up in the Natkr Prime League that if you perform well in the league, a spot on the national team is specially secured for you.

by **Choppyhausen** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 7:39 am

One Last Dance?

Harmon Merrit is the head coach of Choppyhausen's national football team.

This sentence has been true for the entirety of the modern history of Choppyhausenian international football. It was true in Xaiv, Saterun where Choppyhausen played its first match at the IAC 24, it was true at that one stadium in Farfadillis where the Team in Teal won an agonzing penalty shoot-out against Super Earth to reach the Baptism of Fire final, it was true in Roi Ville, TJUN-ia where Choppyhausen suffered its largest defeat to date and back home in Choppingen just one matchday later when they won their largest victory in history over Behh. It was also true when Choppyhausen qualified for the World Cup for the first time after five really close playoff matches and when they got absolutely destroyed in the three matches the team got to play at said World Cup. The point is: For a long time, Harmon Merrit has been seen as the only option for Choppyhausen's head coach, irreplacable. For how much longer?

It is well known that the 102nd World Cup cycle hasn't started all too well for Choppyhausen. After a zero point exit from the WC101 group stage, the Team in Teal desperately needed a bit of success and looked towards the IAC26 where it would start as a Pot 1 team for the first time in their history. But there was no bit of success to be found in the cold of Edsmontik. Two goals in three games, a draw against an unranked side and a loss against the worst-ranked Pot 2 team of the tournament later and Choppyhausen left the IAC with a worse performance than in their very first appearance.

And with that comes the question: Might it be time for a change in leadership?

The Dance Partners

___ Eshialand
KPB+: 16th
National teams of Eshialand and Choppyhausen have only ever played each other at the Elephant Chess Cup XIII in the MIR a few months ago where the Eshian Owls won 2½-1½ over the Choppyhausenian Chess Club. Football experts have indicated that this result will be rather unlikely this World Cup. Obviously this chess stuff does not influence the matches at this World Cup in the slightest but it'll be an exciting crossover for all of the twelve Choppyhausenian football fans that also enjoy chess. Eshialand is definitely not the worst team to draw out of Pot 1, but last cycle's World Cup quarterfinalists are this group's favorites for a reason and the matches against them will be for sure the hardest.

___ StrayaRoos
KPB+: 37th
StrayaRoos is Group 15's Pot 2 team and with that the second team of the group that theoretically should perform better than Choppyhausen. Last World Cup, the Emus were one of the highest ranked teams that failed to qualify... Maybe a good sign for the Team in Teal? But let's not get our hopes up to quickly, the two matches against StrayaRoos at the end of each qualifying half will be two of the most important matches of these qualifiers for the Team in Teal. And they won't be easy.

___ Saperetia
KPB+: 84th
Saperetia is the only team that Choppyhausen has actually faced before in an official football match. At the IAC 25, the Team in Teal beat Saperetia with 1-0 in the Round of 32, the only Choppyhausenian victory of the entire tournament. Saperetia's ultra-defensive style of play, combined with the Choppyhausenian attack’s general reluctance to score goals, promises matches that are sure to put you to sleep. This team is probably gonna be the obstacle that the Team in Teal has to overcome to at least reach the playoffs. And with a bronze medal from the most recent Cup of Harmony, the Saperetians will be motivated to stop that from happening...

___ Darkmania
KPB+: 222th
According to our research, Darkmania has been around a lot in the WC qualifiers but not a lot in the WC finals. Let's hope it stays that way.

___ Germanic Cat
KPB+: 285th
Research has shown that Germanic Cat has actually competed in more World Cup Qualifiers than Choppyhausen has. However, their results have been mild at best. Maybe that's why we haven't been able to find any kind of media coverage on their matches. Most likely, this team will have no chance in getting to Drawkland or the Holy Empire but with a surprise victory or even a draw they could very well decide who will go.

___ Marnack Confederacy
KPB+: Unranked
World Cup 102 will be the first time that a football team from the Marnack Confederacy will participate in an international tournament. It is unknown how good Zaira Lublinina's team will perform... From a Choppyhausenian point of view: hopefully not that good.

by **The Republic of the United Marble Tribes** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 8:47 am

The Yellow Monkeys Are Here Again!!!

It's the 102nd Nationstates's Football (not the American one, of course) World Cup! And this is the 2nd one for our talents.

The Yellows are currently stuck in Group 6, a relatively tough group: Serdtgyu (339), Libesia (187), Bhumi Matawis Empire (53), Aleirave (25), Al Sahel (UR), The Kytler Peninsulae (19). With each others' rankings being suspiciously close to each other, this would be hard to beat for the Marblelanians.

Bombshell dropped: The Yellows would be facing the most senior and professional team of the group, Kytler Peninsulae, FIRST. They were nicknamed ruthless for a reason. If the Marbles could somehow pull out a draw here on their very first try of the tournament, they would already be considered in luck!

And what else would the Marblelanian football be known for except for its fans, the second-to-none jewel of the stadium! The Yellow Yell-O-Wall are marching into Drawkland, NOW!

With a stormy force of 45 million fans (what a number!), the fans are about to take the city by storm!

With just days away before kickoff, you can tell football is already in the atmosphere. And it isn't just the local Drawklandians and Marblelanian fans hyping the city up. Millions, if not billions of football fanatics multiverse-wide have crowded into Drawkland, The Holy Empire and Zwanzug for the 102nd tournament of unity!

Back with our supa-squad, with Raja Matusaleh and good-ol' Ryan Goldbridge leading the middle-aged squad--- probably for the final time. Coach Joey Mulholland had set up some interesting tactics to tackle our toughest opponent yet.

Meanwhile, our boys are training hard in their world-class grounds. Do work hard, get sufficient rest and be proud to wear the uniforms on Thursday!

Good luck Yellow Monkeys!!!

Oh, wait! And... ummm.. this year's sponsor is.... MarbleAir and HydrO again

[crowd applause, lol]

Yep, the same old people but, yeah...

GOOD LUCK YELLOWS MONKEYS!!!!!
COME ON YOU YELLOWS!!!
YELL EM' DOWN!!!!!!!

by **Kimi-Suomi** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 9:16 am

Kimi-Suomi. A footballing power? Ok, ok, maybe we're getting ahead of ourselves...but maybe we aren't? The Huuhkajat were not in the full throes of this "expectation" thing that most good teams have - making back-to-back World Cups would do that. Being ranked ahead of JYK-inen would do that. Face the facts: we're a decent side, and Esko Laaksonen is leading the charge.

But that doesn't mean we can just relax and assume things will be calmer from here on out. Falling in the knockouts of another CAFA Cup means work still needs to be done, even if retaining First League status in the new CAFA Nations League was a positive worth celebrating. Anaia considers us one of the best the region has to offer, and for this WC, co-hosted by Drawkland and Pyhä Imperiumi, we have to prove that distinction was deserved. The 7-team group that we have been drawn into, where the winner goes through and 2nds face 3rds for the final spots, is tough, with all three of Aphrilinen, Airanninen and Sudilinen facing us in our opening four games and will all pose huge tests. And that's not even mentioning the unknown tripwires Safiloa, Krikill and Dammamiyya could all end up being.

Despite our recent success, making it back to the dance will not be easy at all. No one is expecting it to be that way.

Pyöräytetäänpä siis pyörää uudelleen... ja katsotaan, mihin se pysähtyy.
NOSTA KUIN HUUHKAJAT!

SCHEDULE/AJOITTAA (Group 17)
MD1: vs Sudilinen [Sudilia] (81) - The Nest [Pesä], Kimi Kaupunki
-----------------------------------------------
MD2: @Dammamiyya (UR)
MD3: vs Aphrilinen [Aphrilia] (7) - The Nest [Pesä], Kimi Kaupunki
-----------------------------------------------
MD4: @Airanninen [Airannia] (78)
MD5: BYE
-----------------------------------------------
MD6: vs Safiloa (199) - Galaktien Colosseum [Colosseum of the Galaxies], Lumikukkulat
MD7: @Krikill (304)
-----------------------------------------------
MD8: @Sudilinen [Sudilia] (81)
MD9: vs Dammamiyya (UR) - Galaktien Colosseum [Colosseum of the Galaxies], Lumikukkulat
-----------------------------------------------
MD10: @Aphrilinen [Aphrilia] (7)
MD11: vs Airanninen [Airannia] (78) - Galaktien Colosseum [Colosseum of the Galaxies], Lumikukkulat
-----------------------------------------------
MD12: BYE
MD13: @Safiloa (199)
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MD14: vs Krikill (304) - The Nest [Pesä], Kimi Kaupunki

by **Outer Armatonisdaristan** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 9:55 am

FUSSBALLFEST - Spezial WM 102

Presented by ATV Sport

ATV Sport House of Football, Aberstorff

Presenters (L-R) Metanni Grobach, Dries Stieborg, Albert van der Poorick and Elvret Waschinzer

Welcome, wilkommen, to the Fußballfest, Pesta Bola, or whatever you refer to it as in your nation! This is ATV Sport and we are proud to present live coverage of NSWC 102 all the way.

Grobach: The Rote Wolfen’s entry was confirmed several days ago. We have been standing, lurking in the shadows, for years, and now, we are ready for our time to strike.
v.d. Poorick: The Rote Wolfen belong to Group 22, where we will be playing Bongo Johnson, Kelssek, Hanalia, Olastor, Vdara and New Kowloon Bay. Most of these teams may appear to be on our level, we should watch out for Vdara, ranked 18th by KPB, and Kelssek, ranked 39th. Spirits are high for us however, following our run in the Sernet Friendly Series, although the lack of other warm-up friendlies leading into this tournament has me concerned.
Stieborg: The groups were re-done over the night due to a.. certain mishap involving the committee. We should be lucky, otherwise we would have had to play Ko-oren!
Waschinzer: Everyone’s bets are on Audioslavia for another easy tournament for them. But can the Rote Wolfen pull off some upsets in our group?
Grobach: October 8th, everyone!
Stieborg: Speaking of, that’s when we open our NSWC account, at home, against Vdara. See you at the Stadion 8. Mai 1904!
Grobach: FBA President Franz Stieplinger will personally be in attendance for our opening match against Vdara, as officially confirmed. Against the 18th ranked team in the world, they will be a huge challenge for us, but who knows - can we pull off the upset of all time?
v.d. Poorick: One player of ours to watch out for is Cocu Kopo. Or Wolfgang Schei. The legend has won everything he could, and can he finally add an NS World Cup to his trophy cabinet? It’s highly unlikely, but you never know, it may happen!
Waschinzer: So could Tottenham not getting relegated this season.. oh wait, relegation is always certain for them!

-Laughter from the presenters-

Stieborg: Anyways, that’s all you need to hear for now! Catch us live from Stadion 8. Mai 1904 on the 8th, as we begin a new era of Armatonisdaristani international football!
All: Auf wiedersehen!

-Fußballfest Spezial WM 102 title card-

by **Chromatika** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 8:27 pm

World Cup 102 Qualifying Matchday 1 Preview vs. (33) Siovanija and Teusland
Starting XI: (3-4-1-2) - Sourtois; van der Plas Bouwmeester - Lethbridge-Antonio, C. - Saburo; Hauptmeijer - Lethbridge-Antonio, C. - Prenn; Fillar; Lee; Xuen-Zhukov (C) - Howard-Dawes.
Reserves: GK Jill Swanson, GK Jessika Aniston, DCR Jaxon Lehmann, DC Samantha Han Cunningham, DCL Hélène Ataciara, DCR Caro Thiers, MR Kandice Oriol, WBL Nemes Mátyás, WBR Lilly Sullivan, CDM Eden Gundsdorf, BWM Erica Holgersson, AP Linnea Karjalainen, AM Þyrill Bjarnhéðinsson, AF Kaytlyn Jean-Baptiste, CF Harriet Baïe-Verte, AF Adélaide Bittencourt.
Preview: To open up your qualifying campaign at home against the #2 seed of the group is an absurd amount of pressure for the first match of your Managing career - but that is exactly what Amelia is in store for. Siovanija and Teusland at the Capitalizt Dome will be a very tense affair - but with the entirety of the Starting XI being the group that played together in the World Cup Proper, there is at least consistency there. You must defend your home pitch during any Qualifying Campaign, and the Capitalizt Dome will be out in full force for this match.

The Forty
Stories of Chromatika's Forty-Person Roster

1. CM/AM Quentin Nicholson

For one Quentin Nicholson, life hadn't always been sunshine and rainbows. His Mother passed away due to a brain aneurysm when he was a baby of two years old, and with his Father being a Colonel in the Chromatik Air Force, he grew up with his Grandparents on his Dad's side in Z'ai'ai, far away from where his Dad was stationed. Due to this distance and his deployments, Nicholson didn't know his Father much until he turned thirteen, when his Father became a General of the Mountains' Peak Air Force Base in the Mountain District, giving Quentin a chance to finally spend time with him. The two have a good relationship at this point, though he still remains closer to his Grandfather.

Grandma Alice was the one that truly brought Quentin up, but growing up without a Mother was hard on Quentin. An imaginative kid from his childhood years, he was always drawing things, making up stories, or spending time staring at nature. Grandma Alice turned this imagination and open vision onto the football pitch by chance, and Quentin took to the pitch like water. By the time he was a teenager, he was the best midfielder at his school, and the only reason why he wasn't noticed by youth squads in Chromatika were because his Grandmother valued his childhood and didn't put him into serious sports until he hit high school.

Quentin hit his first roadblock in high school. A nagging ankle injury plagued his Freshman year, and by the time his Sophomore year arrived, he wasn't the fastest kid in the school anymore. It would take him until Senior year of High School to start to play once again at a very high level - but it was enough that he was given a full ride scholarship to come to Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology.

His career since then is well documented history. He won the starting job, and was a key part of the Hellcats winning multiple titles in recent seasons. He is only twenty-one, with another season still left at the CCFA level. He is studying Literature with the hopes of becoming a writer, and a damn good student. On the pitch, he then was picked to be on the Di Bradini squad, and was the primary facilitator of the squad that surprisingly made a run to the Semifinals.

With Amelia stepping in to lead the team, Quentin Nicholson received the call - and became the final player to join the AM/CM room, a meteoric rise to a career for a player who only took up football because his Grandmother was looking for a positive outlet for his creativity. He's never put up a lot of weight and can be pushed out of position, but he is a visionary with a lethal first touch that lets him contribute to the attack.

There is no denying the amount of power that Maddie Prenn and Lee Hyun-Seol provide to the attack, with Linnea Karjalainen just behind them; however, Nicholson is now on the map - and he's not looking to move off of the squad anytime soon.

by **HUElavia** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 8:40 pm

The Road to Glory Continues

HUElavia returns to the World Cup Qualifiers facing a tricky path to the World Cup in Group 8.

After an eventful IAC run that saw the team fall short to an exciting semi-final against Co-Hosts Edsmontik and scoring the bronze medal against Co-Hosts Crpostran, HUElavia is back in the World Cup Qualifiers. The last time out saw Los Amarilos/Os Amarelos go through a horrid gauntlet to barely make the World Cup, after beating out Cobrio in a dramatic two-leg playoff. The team subsequently bottomed out of Group B with a single point, a pretty horrid end to a troubling campaign. Such a terrible performance has led the team to drop down to 34th in the Multiverse, looking to build back up into the Top 30. In the WC Qualifiers Draw held in Drawkland, HUElavia (34) was drawn into Group 8 with the likes of Pasarga (12), Tajah (465), Pomachetti (60), Austramar (355), Jaliserra (156), and Cardenao (82). A tricky, but doable group that HUElavia should be contending for a playoff spot for the teams that finish in 2nd and 3rd in the Groups (the Group Winners advance directly to the World Cup).

It's been a while since such a small group had been drawn at the World Cup Qualifiers, but this limits to only 6 confirmed venues for HUElavia to use for this cycle. Estadio Nacional (100,000) in Curumba and Estadio Salvador (85,000) in Sao Salvador are the main two confirmed venues for Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos per the Capital and Cultural Capital Rotation Agreement. The remaining four venues are: Estadio HUGames (72,000) in Sega, Estadio Nativo (59,500) in Kuelap, Estadio Bendito (50,000) in San Franco, and Bolovets Olympic Stadium (48,000) in Bolovets. As the "Team 1" of the Group, HUElavia's schedule will be as follows:

MD 1:
BYE

MD 2:
HUElavia vs Pasarga
Estadio Salvador, Sao Salvador

MD 3:
Tajah vs HUElavia

MD 4:
HUElavia vs Pomachetti
Estadio Nacional, Curumba

MD 5:
Austramar vs HUElavia

MD 6:
HUElavia vs Jaliserra
Estadio Nativo, Kuelap

MD 7:
Cardenao vs HUElavia

MD 8:
BYE

MD 9:
Pasarga vs HUElavia

MD 10:
HUElavia vs Tajah
Bolovets Olympic Stadium, Bolovets

MD 11:
Pomachetti vs HUElavia

MD 12:
HUElavia vs Austramar
Estadio Bendito, San Franco

MD 13:
Jaliserra vs HUElavia

MD 14:
HUElavia vs Cardenao
Estadio HUGames, Sega

As always, 85% of the available capacity will be open to the general HUElavian public, while the remaining 15% will be given to the visiting supporters throughout the qualifiers.

Due to the shorter nature of the Qualifiers this time around, a shorter roster was named, mainly in terms of the reserve. The entire roster that was called up to IAC 26 was once more called up, but this time in the reserves, many young players were called up, which were players that showed plenty of promising talent to possibly make the squad, should a player fall out of form or get injured. Gavicaechebarria once more is the captain, where it is expected that this cycle will be his last on the team. He continues to be the oldest player in the roster at 32, giving him high seniority over a team that is very mainly in its 20s.

These qualifiers will be a tricky one, especially with such a small margin of error for each international window throughout the qualifiers. Although, there is plenty of hope from the press and fans that Coach Narita will continue leading the team forward with good results, especially after her first IAC campaign. Here's to what can be our 5th consecutive World Cup Appearance!

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

by **Kelssek** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 9:46 pm

“Well, from my recollection, Moonbeam never did get any of the recipients to actually accept the Inner Peace Prize.” Geraldine Hess, Football Kelssek technical director, tried to keep her voice down as much as possible as she spoke into her phone. Although the attendees at the Autonomous Humanoid Football Showcase featured almost no one from the more conventional football world, nor did many of those involved seem like the type to have more than a vague interest in the version of the sport that didn’t involve robots, it was best not to take chances if someone did recognize her and surmise the topic of her conversation.

“Ah, I see.. So that does raise issues, if we can’t account for those trophy things, and if FK funds were used to purchase them... can we get him... you know, prosecuted?”

The legal counsel’s answer was a very long “maybe”, and Geraldine was soon lost. Abruptly, there was a crashing noise. Geraldine turned around to see what was happening. A humanoid robot was spinning and whirring on the floor, trying to put itself back on its feet. This was an impossible task because the aluminium rod that made up one of its legs had been cracked by another robot colliding with it, leaving its “foot” dangling by electrical wires, so it kept getting upright and then immediately falling over again. Meanwhile, the humans involved in making the participants in the Autonomous Humanoid Football Showcase had started yelling at each other, while the remaining robots gamely went on with the match, lacking the sensors or code that could make sense of the fracas brewing on the sidelines.

“Well, you have to admit it’s sort of realistic,” Geraldine said to nearby, nonplussed spectator, who she guessed to be a supervising professor.

* * *

“To present the trophies please welcome, representing the human football federation, Geraldine Hess, technical director of Football Kelssek!”

As the small crowd, mostly made up of the participants themselves, ruefully applauded the winning teams, Geraldine handed out the prizes. “Impressive work. Congratulations. Now I hope they won’t go Terminator on us,” she said to the winning team’s leader.

The aspiring roboticist simply did not realize she was joking. “Oh, we’re very careful about security and alignment protocols in our lab. And we don’t do any military work until it’s all fully approved by the ethics office.”

Geraldine had no idea of how to respond to such a fact, so she just nodded and smiled for the camera.

Kelssek needs to rediscover fighting mentality: Demetriev

Ruslan Demetriev has called for Kelssek to rediscover an underdog mentality as the new head coach of the national team confronts the task of bringing the team back to the World Cup.

“In the last few years, we were able to play with the confidence and go into every match with the mentality that we expect to win and just have to make it happen. When that doesn’t match reality – and if we’re honest with ourselves, it doesn’t – you have to go back to how you got there.”

“We’ve got to have a different mindset that we need to win by fighting harder and being relentless in every moment.”

As the captain of a Kelssek team that was able to come out of obscurity to reach the World Cup for the first time in a generation, Demetriev knows that struggle first-hand. And while the heights of a top-ten world ranking came well after his playing career, he’ll be determined to reach them within his coaching one.

“It’s been fantastic to have been manager at Baskita and I left the club reluctantly. But I think back to my first manager job which was fighting relegation with FC Novonaya. We made it through on goal difference while fighting like hell for every last little scrap. This is the mentality we need to revive.”

Demetriev also signalled that changes could be coming to the squad and everyone needs to earn their places under him. “What’s happened before, good or bad, it’s in the past. It’s about building a squad that works well together. My only promise is that performance will be rewarded.”

by **Austroguinea** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 10:13 pm

NEW MANAGER AS THE BULLS WILL LOOK FORWARD AHEAD
by Nazario Gonçalves Vieira
Since Carlinhos Dunga is sacked for his performance at the Baptism of Fire, the federation appointed Latin American Jorge Descalzo, a 53-year old Rioplatense who has coached some top teams in the top divisions at Río de la Plata. "Hoping my experience for a national team could be a great experience.", says Descalzo. "I am trying my best as I could for this team to get them to the World Cup." And as his request, he appointed Chilean Carlos Dittborn, and Potenzian Californian Horacio Montiel as his assistants, stating that his team could improve the team's performance. "We all know that this team is new, but they have the guts to win.", says Dittborn. "As for me, they're warriors, proud and fierce." "I never knew I could get a job for a national team", says Horacio. "I might be nervous, but I could try to think of something good for this squad by helping Mr. Descalzo." The fans were skeptical about the appointment of Descalzo as the national manager, but they're still hopeful to be at the World Cup. "I don't think he could lead us far enough, since we have to face some powerful teams like Kanzlia, TJUN-ia, and Carpathia and Ruthenia" says a fan, "If Descalzo pulled off a win, we could be happy about that." The Rioplatense manager will debut at his first match either the supposed friendly against Baker Park or the first qualifier matchday in Davao against United Adaikes.

by **Marnack Confederacy** » Tue Oct 06, 2026 11:00 pm

Choppyhausen wrote:
One Last Dance?

Harmon Merrit is the head coach of Choppyhausen's national football team.

This sentence has been true for the entirety of the modern history of Choppyhausenian international football. It was true in Xaiv, Saterun where Choppyhausen played its first match at the IAC 24, it was true at that one stadium in Farfadillis where the Team in Teal won an agonzing penalty shoot-out against Super Earth to reach the Baptism of Fire final, it was true in Roi Ville, TJUN-ia where Choppyhausen suffered its largest defeat to date and back home in Choppingen just one matchday later when they won their largest victory in history over Behh. It was also true when Choppyhausen qualified for the World Cup for the first time after five really close playoff matches and when they got absolutely destroyed in the three matches the team got to play at said World Cup. The point is: For a long time, Harmon Merrit has been seen as the only option for Choppyhausen's head coach, irreplacable. For how much longer?

It is well known that the 102nd World Cup cycle hasn't started all too well for Choppyhausen. After a zero point exit from the WC101 group stage, the Team in Teal desperately needed a bit of success and looked towards the IAC26 where it would start as a Pot 1 team for the first time in their history. But there was no bit of success to be found in the cold of Edsmontik. Two goals in three games, a draw against an unranked side and a loss against the worst-ranked Pot 2 team of the tournament later and Choppyhausen left the IAC with a worse performance than in their very first appearance.

And with that comes the question: Might it be time for a change in leadership?

The Dance Partners

___ Eshialand
KPB+: 16th
National teams of Eshialand and Choppyhausen have only ever played each other at the Elephant Chess Cup XIII in the MIR a few months ago where the Eshian Owls won 2½-1½ over the Choppyhausenian Chess Club. Football experts have indicated that this result will be rather unlikely this World Cup. Obviously this chess stuff does not influence the matches at this World Cup in the slightest but it'll be an exciting crossover for all of the twelve Choppyhausenian football fans that also enjoy chess. Eshialand is definitely not the worst team to draw out of Pot 1, but last cycle's World Cup quarterfinalists are this group's favorites for a reason and the matches against them will be for sure the hardest.

___ StrayaRoos
KPB+: 37th
StrayaRoos is Group 15's Pot 2 team and with that the second team of the group that theoretically should perform better than Choppyhausen. Last World Cup, the Emus were one of the highest ranked teams that failed to qualify... Maybe a good sign for the Team in Teal? But let's not get our hopes up to quickly, the two matches against StrayaRoos at the end of each qualifying half will be two of the most important matches of these qualifiers for the Team in Teal. And they won't be easy.

___ Saperetia
KPB+: 84th
Saperetia is the only team that Choppyhausen has actually faced before in an official football match. At the IAC 25, the Team in Teal beat Saperetia with 1-0 in the Round of 32, the only Choppyhausenian victory of the entire tournament. Saperetia's ultra-defensive style of play, combined with the Choppyhausenian attack’s general reluctance to score goals, promises matches that are sure to put you to sleep. This team is probably gonna be the obstacle that the Team in Teal has to overcome to at least reach the playoffs. And with a bronze medal from the most recent Cup of Harmony, the Saperetians will be motivated to stop that from happening...

___ Darkmania
KPB+: 222th
According to our research, Darkmania has been around a lot in the WC qualifiers but not a lot in the WC finals. Let's hope it stays that way.

___ Germanic Cat
KPB+: 285th
Research has shown that Germanic Cat has actually competed in more World Cup Qualifiers than Choppyhausen has. However, their results have been mild at best. Maybe that's why we haven't been able to find any kind of media coverage on their matches. Most likely, this team will have no chance in getting to Drawkland or the Holy Empire but with a surprise victory or even a draw they could very well decide who will go.

___ Marnack Confederacy
KPB+: Unranked
World Cup 102 will be the first time that a football team from the Marnack Confederacy will participate in an international tournament. It is unknown how good Zaira Lublinina's team will perform... From a Choppyhausenian point of view: hopefully not that good.

Thanks for mention us. But Zaira Lublinina is really good at managed our national team. She start as the local football team coach, very common. But her journey start from teaching the local football club until she became the greatest manager in National football team.

But this is her first time teaching Marnack Confederacy Football Team in World Cup 102 (and this is first time we participated in World Cup). So yeah she really good at coaching the national team. Hope that helps the choppyhausenian POV about our national team!.

by **Tumnia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 1:38 am

TBS - Tumnian Broadcasting System

Tumnia to participate in WC 102
Coach of Tumnia football team Vladimir Demyan says after their success at BOF 89 reaching the quarterfinals they hope it will do the same as in the world cup

Tumnia will be in the Group of 13
Tumnia (241)
Kandorith (91)
Farfadillis (21)
Bonusia (43)
Pyazhnaya (70)
Nortallius (422)
The Alpine Republic of Tyrol (382)

The only thing we will worry is Farfa...dibilisilis and Bobo---..nusia? It sounds like Bonusia is full of Bonuses am i right?(Audience laughs)

Demyan says they will use 4-3-2-1 Formation

Over 45,000 Tumnians going to Drawkland and Holy Empire
(idk what is this)
MD1: 1 BYE, 2 v 7, 3 v 6, 4 v 5
MD2: 5 BYE, 6 v 4, 7 v 3, 1 v 2
MD3: 2 BYE, 3 v 1, 4 v 7, 5 v 6
MD4: 6 BYE, 7 v 5, 1 v 4, 2 v 3
MD5: 3 BYE, 4 v 2, 5 v 1, 6 v 7
MD6: 7 BYE, 1 v 6, 2 v 5, 3 v 4
MD7: 4 BYE, 5 v 3, 6 v 2, 7 v 1
(lets pretend this are a set of numbers that dictate if the rival players of rival teams die or live according to the Spaghetti God and Grand Zeno)

by **Kanzlia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 2:54 am

Alyenskan and Te'Peris
1963 - A shaky start as the Army collaborates with the UKS
<- Click to know more about the Celestial Research Authority

On the early morning of June 8th 1963, a plucky scientist from the University of Ibsia drove their decrepit blue car to the Army headquarters in Doenwic. That scientist was Alyenskan, a long-time student in Ibsia's burgeoning rocketry scene, and in the rear seat of his car was a daring proposal made by his peers, to be presented to the Kanzlian Army. Passing through the first checkpoint he was stopped, berated by the two soldiers manning the post. Alyenksan's car had a civilian plate, and to any civilian visitor they are required to leave their cars outside. Alyenskan reluctantly reversed the car and parked his blue TRC Model 1949 car in a nearby diner.

Picking up his heavy briefcase from the back he dragged along to the checkpoint. He stated his reason for the visit, "A research proposal to the Army", he said.

"And in the reference of?" the soldier asked back. The second soldier inspecting and searching through the briefcase.

"...Major Te'Peris of the Army Rocketry Department."

"Army Rocketry Department?"

"Yes."

The two soldiers looked at one another before meeting back with Alyenskan. The scientist was told to remain in the checkpoint whilst the two soldiers called for someone. The wait was agonising, the two soldiers did not talk to Alyenskan at all until an officer arrived at the checkpoint.

Greeting Alyenskan was a tall broad man, his uniform not buttoned in the slightest, and he has a disheveled look that Alyenskan was all too familiar with. He shook his hand before the officer introduced himself as Major Te'Peris, much to Alyenskan's relief.

That was how Alyenskan recalled that first encounter with the Army in 2002. He was 69 years old when our team interviewed his role in the birth of the Kanzlian space programme.

"I was a nervous wreck, I think it was a given for some civilian's first time dealing with professional soldiers," Alyenskan told our team.

Te'Peris and Alyenskan had corresponded briefly prior to their first actual meeting. Te'Peris was one of the leading figures in the Army Rocketry Department and he was friends with one Prof. William Tejro from the Royal University of Bentappel. It was through Te'Peris that Tejro was informed of the Army's classified rocket programmes in the Army Rocketry Department, or the ARD. Being a classified research programme, Tejro and Te'Peris was risking significant backlash from the Army when Tejro proposed a joint collaboration between the ARD and the Union of Kanzlian Scientists. Unfortunately Tejro was abroad when the research proposal had been produced, and it was up to Alyenskan, one of Tejro's closest friends, to deliver the paper to the Army.

"He nearly got himself arrested mentioning the ARD to the soldiers," recalled Te'Peris when our team in Serentia interviewed the now 84 year old retired officer in 2003.

"The ARD was highly classified, casually naming the full name of a classified programme to the soldiers in the checkpoint opened himself up for questioning by the Investigations Team."

The soldiers at the checkpoint had not called Te'Peris when they told Alyenskan to wait. Instead, they were checking in with the Army Marrechaussee and the Investigations Team. It was a miracle that the officer they were calling had checked in with Te'Peris who explained the situation. Presumably, had the officer not called Te'Peris, Alyenskan would be arrested for possessing knowledge of the Army's classified research programme.

But the miracle had happened, and instead of a brief internal scandal, the Kanzlian Army with the ARD opened up to the civilian Union of Kanzlian Scientists for a research collaboration the nation had never seen before. This was the birth of Kanzlian Celestial Research as we know it. Every moment beyond this page of the book was only possible because of this fateful day in 1963 turning out the way it did.

"Perhaps if Alyenskan was arrested, the top dogs of Army high command would be less open to collaboration with the Union [of Kanzlian Scientists]," said Te'Peris.

Timor Alyenskan and Pieters Karsou te'Peris both passed away in 2009, having lived fulfilling lives and played their part in our research into the celestial realm.

✹✹✹ CRA Heritage Foundation
Chronicling the many stories of the men and women behind Kanzlia's space programme

by **IA3x** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 5:49 am

Belcari Van Nisteryn was overseeing a construction site on what was once the mainland of the First Republic, right on the outskirts of Gjenfødt Astena.

Rebuilding the capital of The First Republic atop its own ruins was certainly one of the more idiotic ideas that the Heirs had decided to follow up upon (Even Mugel Krygorf admitted it was somewhat ludicrous!), all in the name of this new reclamation project for The Second Republic to establish themselves on the land that once belonged to their predecessors. Officially, the name was "Operation Gryning", or "Operation Daybreak", a name which Belcari considered just fine. This operation was a massive undertaking.

For many reasons, really. The permanent establishments founded in the "Otherworld" as official documents labelled them would remain as is, with communications between this new mainland and there continued hourly. The Floating City and the nation's new capital, Orphinia, would move and be transported to Anaia proper and float above the decently large bay that The First Republic used to border on its west. And considering the terrain of northern Aurora being a frozen, wet swamp all-round throughout the year, reclaiming the land has been a struggle. But that's not even the worst of the struggles that The Second Republic has had to face in the undertaking of this project.

The Catastrophe utterly destroyed everything from infrastructure to terrain. Any supplies found remaining were contaminated, and the land was even more inhospitable compared to when their ancestors from Nordcalia-Gestova first arrived here. But now there was something worse; creatures, or monsters to better describe them, former survivors who didn't make it out that were infected by... Whatever was put into the air after The Catastrophe. Aggressive, infectious, like sci-fi beasts.

So not only did the Heirs have to deal with the bureaucracy of lifting everything off the ground, not only do they have to deal with an inhospitable and directly unlivable environment, they also had to exterminate these weird beasts. Cecilia Scharlund gave these things the nickname of "Giebündel" or just "Giebundel," Energy Beasts. The Vessel of Wind was also the one who suggested that Giebundel may have infected the survivors thanks to a mixture of whatever infected the air along with the Elyzian Energy that seeded itself deep into the atmosphere here. Until Cecilia had mentioned it, Belcari had forgotten about Elyzian Energy. That explanation definitely seemed reasonable.

Either way, the construction site that she was overseeing was that for a residential apartment complex. One that would allow the housing of many more Athearans. Twenty four floors tall, the place could also serve as a hotel considering it had a swimming pool and a gym, alongside other facilities. But that would be up to the discretion of the man in charge of infrastructure, Mugel. Just as she was contemplating on everything that has occurred up to this point, Belcari hears a large bang. One of the beams had been accidentally dropped. "Everything alright? Is anyone hurt?" Belcari asks as she approaches the workers nearby. "No ma'am, just a slip up." One of them replied.

Belcari breathed a sigh of relief. "Make sure it doesn't happen again, and get everyone checked up." She sternly ordered. Everyone nodded at the command, before Belcari looked at what was to be the main building once more. A few years ago and the thought of returning to the place they once called home was unfathomable, but now, here they were picking up the pieces and starting anew. It was a weird, strange, odd sensation that filled her mind. A sense of pride, perhaps, as insane and ridiculous some of the plans within the operation may be. But perhaps that's fine, Atheara has never been considered relatively normal anyway, even when compared to their fellow Anaians.

Deep within her heart, Belcari wants to see this operation succeed. For Atheara to mark itself back upon Anaia, and the multiverse as a whole, just like it used to be.

by **Erroropolisish Paradystopia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 6:12 am

H.R.H. Error Message I
The Splendiferous Palace
1 Imperial Boulevard
Greater Erroropolis
Erroropolisish Paradystopia

Rutendo Mukarate
CO: The Greater Erroropolis Arena
The Avenue of Dreems
Greater Erroropolis

Dear Mr. Mukarate

Now, I don't like you, and you don't like me. Well, I'm actually not sure of your opinions of my majestic self but let it be known that I am exceedingly distrustful of Martians. Ever since I saw that late-night documentary 'Invaders from Mars', I find myself repulsed by your orifice-probing ways, ugly, squat green bodies and bulbous eyes, and crudely animated means of motion. Let it be known that I will tolerate no form of invasion from extra-terrestrial sources or otherwise. Nevertheless, some fool within our football association saw fit to employ you as our national manager so I feel compelled to diplomatically extend a hand.

You may also be aware that the post you currently fill was previously occupied by my magnificent self. Whilst I may have taken a step back from my involvement in football to concentrate on my snowboarding career (and international politics, obvs.), I would still consider myself a somewhat spiritual leader to the football squad and eternally, the true best choice for manager. This said, I would consider it prudent if you were to come to the palace that we may brainstorm some ideas to maximise our chances in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers. I have already concocted a great many stratagems (for example, the Qusmi'y it is said, cannot resist the lure of mathematic analysis. Placing a few choice reams of random numbers about the pitch should sufficiently distract them that our squad might attack unhindered.) that I'm keen to share.

I look forward to your response so we can set up a meeting. I don't know what food Martians eat, but I can provide traditional Earthling tea and biscuits. Please do not attempt to probe me, or I shall likely be forced to deport you, and by deport, I mean fire back at Mars in a rocket as I'm not entirely certain on how one deports a non-terrestrial.

Your Sincerely

H.R.H Error Message I

"Am I legally obligated to reply to this?"

"Ermm ... no, I don't think so."

"So it's totally cool if I was to screw up this letter and throw it in the nearest bin?"

"Yes. Totally fine."

"Wonderful."

by **Busoga Islands** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 7:42 am

Delbin Kasekende Sr. holding a political rally in his hometown of Dukuma, North Island- Busoga's largest city

Different speakers were on the stage, speaking about different things in regards to the upcoming Presidential elections in the Islamic Republic. Delbin Kasekende Sr. was backstage, not really listening to the members of his own party speak. Everybody knew what was about to happen, even though it wasn't official- why he was here, what he was announcing, and why. It had been a long 6 years in the wilderness- well, not all of it political wilderness, but long enough away from the Presidency. Kasekende Sr. had been President of the country for a quarter-century, before a rigged election process had to happen- and he had to drop out to ensure that the integrity of the next election could be held smoothly. It was his responsibility as a small-d democrat, to ensure that Busoga's political system could endure the shock.

He thought about what had led them there. He thought about, of course, his own story. When he was a younger adult, the Busoga Islands were still a part of Banija. He was a professional soccer player- for the Banijan NT, before the Busogan one was an option. He was the starting goalkeeper for Banija during that fated World Cup 80 Qualifying campaign- Banija's 7th attempt, and Banija's first successful attempt, at qualifying for the World Cup. That meant he was a key part of the first ever World Cup Qualification for those giants of world football. But what happened for Busoga since then? Well, alongside that happening, there was the Banijan-Equestrian War- or, known in Busoga as the Busogan War for Independence. A terrible drought struck the country, and severe corruption during the Matthias Mutebi sparked a humanitarian crisis on these Islands- and with the help of both Baker Park and the Equestrian States, Busogan independence was guaranteed, and they were an independent country for the first time in over 2 centuries.

Naturally, he then chose to play for the Busoga Islands- becoming one of a small handful of players in international football whose first appearance in the World Cup Finals, came before an appearance in the Baptism of Fire. It's pretty much impossible to do that unless you switch countries, and Kasekende Sr. did, in a sense- although if the Busogans had been independent his entire career, he'd have never played for the Kadongo Kamu. After his professional soccer career, of course, he parlayed that into a political career. He got involved in municipal politics, serving a term on the Dukuma City Council, before successfully becoming Mayor of Busoga's largest city. Spent a couple of terms there before running for President of the entire country, and winning his first 6 year term.

And then he won again- and again- and again. He was elected four times, each to the standard 6 year term. And in the Islamic Republic, Presidential elections were direct- so while he sometimes had legislative majorities, and sometimes he didn't, he was, of course, one of Arrosia's most dominant electoral politicians. He had navigated little ol' Busoga through all sorts of foreign policy crisies. Throughout the Banijan-Farf nuclear crisis. He was the one to normalize relations with Banija, and ensure Busoga's entry into the Quebecois Commonwealth. He guided Busoga successfully through what could have been a massively destabilizing event- ensuring that the small country was at the center of discussion on Atlantian Oceania's future, when the region split into two via the Anaia breakaway. He, again, ensured Busogan interests were protected when the Vilitan Issues took place, and most of the rest of AO left to form Arrosia, Busoga's current region.

Throughout then, Busoga's economy had been defined by growth and dynamism. Not having the massive natural oil resources of their larger neighbor, Banija, they were building a high-tech, green economy- certainly still decently supported by Equestria. It was off the backs of all that progress, where he sought a fifth, 6 year term. He had even jumped into the fray directly in soccer, taking over the Busoga Islander Soccer Association(BISA), and paying a well-known international manager, Emeline Millet, out of his own pocket. He thought he had it in the bag- things were good in Busoga, he was trusted, and the people were not tired of him. Until, of course- organized crime involvement. A multi-layer saga, where a series of destabilizing events were orchestrated for the sole purpose of getting Kasekende Sr. out of the Presidency- and where organized crime could sink their talons into the governing structures of the Busoga Islands.

The murder of his ambassador. A sharp uptick in crime and violence on the streets. This ruining confidence in Busoga. That former Ambassador's wife publicly banning Kasekende Sr. from the funeral- icing on the cake. Fortunately, Busogan authorities caught wind of the plot, and were able to eventually arrest the perpetrators. A Banijan-Busogan crime family, with the assistance from some foreign crime syndicates. Prepared to rig an election. But then, it put him in a bad spot, politically. The arrest of his political opponents, who were in on it? The Court postponing the election by a year, when he was down in the polls? It put him in a tough position- run again, and the prosecution of those bad elements gets politicized. He did not want people to think that he was the head of a banana republic. So he did what he had to do, to ensure those prosecutions go through- announce he wasn't running for re-election.

It was tough. And he had spent 6 years, doing other things. Running BISA, overseeing the rapid rise of Busogan soccer- from their first WC, to their first KO stage appearance. That was, of course, until President Kavak fired him- Kasekende Sr., and the current President, President Kavak, despised one another. He even participated in an international chess tournament. He then ran for the Commonwealth Parliament, and has been an elected member of the elected international body, since this time in the World Cup 101 Qualifying cycle. He had spent the last 6 years waiitng, biding his time- slowly, but surely, the clock would run out on President Kavak's term. And it was doing so- elections were in 3 months, and President Kavak, the previous week, had just announced his intention to run for re-election.

And Kasekende Sr., was going to be his opponent. He stood up- he was about to announce Arrosia's worst-kept secret, to the entire country- and the world. As his introductory speaker was listening, he heard plaudits that he was being given- and when they announced him, he walked into the center of the stage, grabbing the mic- and looking out on this crowd, to a wonderful round of applause.

"My friends!!" He yelled out to the cheering crowd, as they cheered loudly for him. "For too long, for the last 6 years- we have been made to suffer under the failing Presidency of Mr. Kavak! Who fell backwards, of course, into his spot!" They started booing Kavak- chants of 'throw him out' were echoing in the building. "For far too long- worsening schools, he wants religious strife, he wants Busoga to move into the past- rather than be part of the vanguard that will secure our future. That is why, on this day, I am announcing officially that I am running for President of the Busoga Islands!"

The crowd cheered, as he dove into his prepared stump speech. Was the path back to the Presidency there for him? He would find out soon, in 3 months time.

by **Yangchenia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 7:42 am

The Oath of the Dragon Chalice
Chapter 19
Yuko Tanaka accepts Kaya Yazawa’s friendship, despite their great differences.
That night after school, the two officialize their friendship by drinking champagne from the same chalice.
(Dragon symbolizes authority and fortune)

There was something in the way Kaya continued to gaze upon Yuko that deeply unsettled him. The look in her eyes was comfortably neutral, one that on its own wasn't one that would invoke the same kind of unease had it come from literally anyone else. Perhaps that unease stemmed from the fact that Yuko knew better, he knew who Kaya was, knew the general truth about her dark family background being from one of the most powerful mafia syndicates in—well, the entire world. Though, looking closer, her gaze wasnt just neutral. The way her eyes were wide, her eyebrows raised, and the way she pouted, it seemed that there was a pleading look could be seen in her eyes, as if she was pleading with Yuko to accept her friendship, similar to a cat attempting to gain the favor of a human.
But Yuko was not immediately convinced. After all, how could he really. In Yuko’s mind, her name was inseparable from her identity. He couldn't look into her soft, gentle eyes without remembering the other Kaya, the monster of the Yazawa. He couldn't look her in the eyes without thinking of how many people were killed with that same gaze. But now, that perception of her was now being challenged. Not by much, but just enough to plant that first seed of doubt. Was there really more to Kaya than just her family name? Could someone from such a background coexist with other people, most especially with someone whose family is one of the many targets of her own?
Yuko’s idea of the Yazawa had always been that cold, distant force—an invisible beast that only showed itself whenever it felt like extracting value from its captured prey. From a young age growing up in the household of a man deeply indebted to the Yazawa Clan, he grew to resent the Yazawa, and all his family’s grievances and troubles were planted into him like a seed of anger, waiting to sprout into an instrument of revenge against those who relish in his suffering.
Now, staring eye to eye with the daughter of the Boss—the very boss he had grown to both fear and hate all his life, that anger and resentment was strangely absent. Instead, for the first time in his life, doubt about the morality of his anger towards the Yazawa began to cloud his mind. The labels that distinguish between the predator and the prey, the oppressor versus the oppressed, at this moment, seem irrelevant now. He now has to ask himself a question few in his position would even ask before resentment steers them back to unquestioned hatred:
“Can I really be friends with someone from my oppressors family?”
Kaya noticed his hesitation in the way he paused to think, his mind seeming distant and lost in thought for a short while. She let out a wisp of air, eyes drooping towards the table, where her fingers were tracing circles on the glass surface.
“I see. Well, I cannot blame you if you don’t want to be with me. Everyone’s like that once they hear my surname.”
Kaya looked at Yuko one last time, before slowly rising from her seat.
“I guess I’ll be off then. It was a pleasure meeting you however. A shame we couldnt be friends really. But, at least I can promise you you’ll be safe for the rest of your time here at UniRai. Farewell.”
Those doubts continued to pester Yuko, however. Maybe he should accept. Maybe he should be friends with her. After all, you can’t judge a book by its cover, right? But maybe he already knew more about Kaya than her cover given his family experiences?
Those thoughts eventually drove him to a decision he could have never imagined making several years ago. Before Kaya could leave, Yuko placed his hand over hers, a motion which startled Kaya.
“Don’t go.”, he commanded, in a tone people rarely speak when talking to a Yazawa. “I’ll be your friend. I’ve decided that you really cannot judge a person without knowing them deeply first.”
“Wait, what?”
“It’s true. Let’s be friends.”
Kaya stood there silent, processing Yuko’s sudden change in demeanor. Perhaps he may have figured out that being her friend was something that could be of great benefit to him. Up to this point, the only “friends” Kaya ever had were people who only wanted to use her as a sort of political pawn. But to her knowledge, Yuko was really not the type of person who would be part of Raijugang’s elite, judging by the way he spoke, dressed and acted. She guessed that Yuko may be someone whose had multiple encounters with the Yazawa in the past, judging by how much he knew about her family in the few conversations they had, but that only made less sense, as any sensible person would do their best to maintain their distance from the Yazawa in that situation. There was no reason for Yuko to really be friends with her;.
But that fact only made her believe that Yuko was being genuine.
She smiled, a gesture rare for someone like her. “I honestly didnt expect that. I’m extremely thankful, we’ll get along well I know.”
That may have been Kaya’s train of thought, but for Yuko, it was a different thing entirely. He still had lingering doubts about whether or not his decision was the right call, and he didn't trust Kaya completely, if he was being totally honest. His gut told him to keep his distance from her especially with the fact that his father is so indebted to her family, which is a fact he hadn't even told Kaya about yet before accepting her request to be her friend.
His heart suddenly sank. How could he have forgotten about the debt? Now, he placed himself in a precarious situation, having befriended the very daughter of the person who probably killed his own father. It was a feeling of great regret, as if he had betrayed his entire bloodline.
He considered telling her right here and right now. But he ultimately decided against it, he doesn't want to tell her, for fear that she would immediately leave him, see him as nothing more than a statistic for her family, which could put his life in danger. On the other hand, she could be driven to excessively worry about him. But, thee was no denying the opportunity of the moment. This was his only chance to know whether or not he could still trust the Yazawa, or Raijugang as a whole. Maybe he could work something out. Maybe he could see his father again.

With that hope, he reluctantly befriended her.

Later that day..
How the time passed by. They were kept at their desks until the late evening. By the time the final period had ended, the sun was already below the horizon, the skies above Raijugang shifting from azure to a hue of orange. It was now 6PM, and Yuko had been here for the better part of ten hours now, slouched over his desk where his notebook laid, two pages entirely filled with his notes. Kaya was seated right next to him, her face bearing a look of disinterest at what the teacher was saying, her gaze instead directed at the clock hanging on the far wall which read that it was almost dismissal time.

Yuko’s eyes were slowly beginning to shut from exhaustion, his head drooping up and down as he barely had the energy to remain awake when a loud metal noise echoed throughout the room. It was the evening bell, its chime echoing through the hallways like the gongs of old, and with it signaled the end of school. As soon as the bell was audible, students quickly dropped their pens, packed their bags and rushed out the door, many sighing in relief after the long day. The outside was now a lot darker compared to earlier in the day, neon beginning to illuminate the streets where moonlight was insufficient, and street lamps had already turned on as night approached. Students came piling out into the streets like a human wave, officers directing traffic away from the university to allow students to cross the street safely into the waiting area. Yuko stood amidst the crowd of probably several thousand pupils as he attempted to make his way to the bus stop, which was just across the street, however he had to walk a bit more to the corner of the block as the street had been closed due to the amount of students leaving the university.

Many of his peers were fetched by their personal chaffeurs, their uniforms crisp and bearing the seal of their families, who were already waiting for them in the school parking lot for an hour now. Some made a more grand exit—grand by UniRai standards of course, as Yuko suddenly heard a loud whirring noise overhead. As he looked up , he saw a black helicopter descend into the lot, and two bodyguards, male and female, escorting a blonde haired girl dressed in a black blouse inside. He remembered seeing this person earlier in the lobby, from what he remembered she was Zandrina Rasavova, the heir of Belvedere Resorts, and already a prominent player in the Yangini hockey team despite her young age.

When Yuko had made it to the bus stop, he was one of only a few students there. Most of his classmates had cars, personal drivers and whatnot, but he didn't have a home to return to, especially after he had to flee his father’s home as the Yazawa mafia threatened to seize it. He decided earlier in school to head towards Yanfen Hill, a remote part of the city that was situated around an hour away from UniRai, as he didn't want anyone in the school to discover he was not only from a poor family, but he also slept on the streets, as it was a recipe for having a bullying target on his back. He instinctively looked around him to see if anyone was watching him, fearful of his secret being uncovered, yet he didn't need to fear all that much, as there were only around 10 people at the bus stop he was waiting at, all students who probably couldn't care less that he looked a like a barbarian.

Yuko wasnt lucky with the bus however. The first five buses that pulled up were all headed to Lan-yen Park, Belvedere Strip via Houtong Ward, and Fuzhao Yamen respectively, all in the opposite direction from where he wanted to go. He considered boarding the last bus to Fuzhao Yamen, but walked back on his decision, especially after realizing that the Fuzhao Yamen was still an active part of the city, one where people could discover his secret.

The night was getting older, and later, Yuko was the only one remaining at the bus stop. He considered just walking to another neighborhood, but that still put him at a high chance of being discovered to be effectively homeless in Raijugang. Perhaps he could hitchhike? But who would accept someone like him?

Suddenly, a matte black Bentley pulled up right next to him, its coating sleek and freshly painted, reflecting the blinding streetlight into his eyes. Yuko’s eyes widened slightly as he took in the sight of the limousine. “This looks like a very important person.”, Yuko must have thought to himself as it parted through the traffic like a beast. One could imagine the surprise when the car suddenly stopped right in front of him. The window slowly rolled down, and from inside Yuko heard a woman’s voice.
“Get in”,
Yuko knew that voice all too well now. It was Kaya. Of course it was Kaya. She was still dressed in the same outfit she wore to school, yet there seemed to be a stain of blood on her hands. Kaya noticed his gaze towards her hand where the stain laid, quickly rubbing it off. “It’s just wine”, she explained. “Now get in, before you get a cold in this weather.”
“Now, now”, Yuko said in a playfully mocking tone. “Since when did you start caring about me?”
“Since earlier.”, Kaya replied annoyed as she waited for Yuko to get inside her car. “We’re friends now, right?”
“You think I’ll just willingly enter the vehicle of the daughter of the person who–”
Yuko almost blurted out the fact that his family was heavily indebted to hers, or the fact that her family’s mafia had likely already taken his father in the days since he fled his home.
“The person who—what?”, Kaya answered, her tone inquisitive.
“The woman feared all across Raijugang.”, Yuko shot back. “Everyone here knows who Nara Yazawa is. I’m not saying you are a bad person, Kaya. I am just naturally cautious about these things, especially when it comes to your mother.
Kaya sighed. “Oh, come on Yuko. You should know for a fact that I would never hurt you. Besides, as long as I like you, Nara and the mafia wouldn't dare lay a finger on you. Now, just tell me where my chauffeurs shall take you.”
“Right, uh..”, replied Yuko, unable to find the right words. He couldnt tell her he didnt actually have a home in Raijugang, or the fact that he just slept on the streets between classes. And he especially couldn't tell her anything about what happened in Kanazawa.
“Don’t tell me you forgot where you live, Yuko?”, Kaya joked, letting out a short chuckle.
“No, fine, I live in Yanfen Hill. It’s an hour away from here, towards the north.”, he replied.
“Yanfen Hill.”, Kaya muttered as if tasting the words. “Certainly a faraway place from here. But we can take you there regardless. Now get in before I have to escort you in myself.”

Yuko had no choice but to step into the vehicle. The inside of the vehicle was spacious like a limousine. Aside from Kaya, inside the vehicle was her driver, named Chiu Ho-yin, her bodyguard Koo Hao-yu, and her maid Wei Swee-ling. The car itself was registered to a man named Yanggiyan Fiyangga based on one of the cards tucked in a pouch on the car roof, which was likely an alias to conceal the identity of the true owner given the Yazawa’s criminal status.

Kaya gestured to Yuko to sit right next to her, patting the empty seat. As Yuko sank into the plush seats, he noticed Maid Wei poured a glass of vintage red wine, one that possibly cost more than his entire family’s net worth, into an elegant dragon chalice, featuring the four elemental dragons - Chan-yu, Gye-Pang, Min Zhu and Tsenden Dru.

Kaya lifted the chalice, swirling the wine inside and took a sip from it, before offering it to Yuko. “A token of our friendship. We shall officialize it with wine from the dragon chalice.” Yuko didn't really drink alcohol, but he couldn't really say no to someone like her. Reluctantly, he took a sip as well.

And from then on, the two were now friends bound by what they would later call the Oath of the Dragon Chalice.
[/size]

Love is Blind
a WC story by Yangchenia

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Yangchenia Blazing Dragons
"In the flames of sport, our iron will is forged"

A ZODIAC UPSET
Yangchan Yaks Suffer Historic Defeat, Relegated for the first time since 1973

The Zodiac League season of 2025-2026 ended in a major upset for supporters of the Yangchan Yaks, the professional football team of the Yangini capital. The giant team representing one of the largest cities within the Msalkan Football Association, and one of the founding teams of the Zodiac League suffered its most humiliating defeat in the team’s entire professional history, after placing dead last in the final scoreboard in the most recent Zodiac League season, and being relegated to the second-tier of Msalkan football for the first time since its similarly disastrous loss in the 1972-1973 season.

The Yaks started this year’s season similar to last year, with a weak start following its draw to the team of Shwedaung, By the end of the tournament, the team had only won 2 of the 13 matches it had played, with 5 draws and 6 losses, placing it dead last in the leaderboard, behind the Aldaran Annihilators, based in Talbushek.

The Yaks’ defeat made headlines in the Yangini capital, as audiences struggled to come to terms with what had just happened on the field. Yartak Nyigma Yeshe, 45, was interviewed by Chaji Drazhin Dzhane, one of Yangchenia’s largest news networks, who told reporters

“No one knew how to react. No one expected that we would perform this shittily.”

A SoraAI generated video of Yangchan Yaks coach Huang Chih-wei committing seppuku went viral on X and Reddit, mostly as a result of the Yangchan Yaks’ relegation from the Zodiac League for the first time since its 1973 failure. Football fanatics in the Yangini capital seethe as for many, the defeat of the Yaks symbolized the victory of the Ykha Raijugang team, representing the city of Raijugang, in the heated football rivalry between the two cities. One football fanatic from Yangchan reportedly hired a voodoo expert lady to cast a curse upon Huang Chih-wei, blaming him for the team’s defeat.

NEW CUP, NEW PROFITS?
Businesses await surge in profits amidst World Cup 102

We recommend reading here for this article
News on our Website

As the World Cup approaches, many businesses in Yangchenia are seemingly preparing themselves for a surge in profits brought about by the excitement generated by the upcoming international sporting juggernaut. In particular, the gambling industry in Yangchenia is set to grow by 5.7% as the football tournament nears in October, due to a rise in sports betting.

Zandrina Rasavova, a player in the Snow Tigers, the Yangini hockey team agreed to speak to CDZ reporters, who told correspondents about the expected rise in activity along the Raijugang Strip as the World Cup Season approaches, primarily driven by wealthy foreigners and upper-middle class locals from the Msalkan mainland looking to place their bets on the results of varying World Cup matches in the hope of taking home big wins.

“And everyone in the industry, more so myself as a player for the Yangini hockey team can see that, as these big international sporting events like the World Cup near, there is a notable increase in the amount of people coming to Raijugang to place bets and gamble. Last World Cup to my knowledge, we [Belvedere RA] saw a fourfold increase in our daily foot traffic, and an almost 50 percent increase in our monthly revenue (both counting our casinos and hotels), so we really generate a significant portion of our revenue from these events. If you speak with Wang An [Chairman of Raijugang International Airport] then he can tell you how crowded the airport gets during these weeks as millions flood into our city. Last year was when we even had our record shattering 25 million USD bet from a billionaire looking to double his money, which unfortunately for the bettor was a losing bet on the prediction that Kanzlia would triumph over Audioslavia.”

Zandrina is the daughter of Diane Rasavova, the CEO of Belvedere Resorts and Entertainment, the largest gambling corporation operating in Raijugang. Matthew Tang Chun-Kit, CEO of rival Golden River Resorts, another major player within the Raijugang Strip and owner of many hospitality adjacent-corporations in Altanul echoed similar views, stating at a shareholder meeting that October will be a month of great opportunity for the company and for the city of Raijugang as a whole.

Tourism

The gambling economy is however, not the only sector of the Yangini economy set to boom as World Cup season approaches. The Minister of Tourism, Anthony An-Yen told correspondent Kwan Paldon that monthly visitors to Yangchenia for October 2026 is projected to hit 1.16 million, up from 878,000 monthly tourists in September 2026, a roughly 32% increase, with some estimates placing the total number as high as 1.55 million. Of these tourists, the majority will head to Raijugang, already being the most visited city in the country due to its gambling and entertainment industry.

Yangchan is also expected to see a rise in tourists given its status as the country’s political and historical capital, and also as a result of the fact that the international airport at Yangchan is the largest on the Msalkan continent, and will be utilized by many international passengers connecting onto a flight to Caldemount, the capital of neighboring Gesaria, where World Cup home matches will be held following the Gurkha’s victory at the Zodiac League.

Status of the Economy

The coming World Cup is set to provide a much needed boost to the Yangini economy, which has stagnated after the end of the Selenkova administration in March. According to current Minister of Finance Kan Bo-Yuan, the Yangini economy is set to grow in the fourth quarter of 2026, from $2,288,630,000,000 to $2.3 trillion USD based on GDP nominal. The Ngultrum is also set to stabilize this quarter, after closing at a low of 33.23 Ngultrums to the dollar in June, before strengthening to 30.97 to the dollar at the end of October.

CDZ’s Cheuk Mei, Po Yung-Kuat and Xenia Chao contributed to this report.

by **Saperetia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 7:54 am

The Central Chronicle
---------------------------
The SAP Preview
The next attempt is here. How badly will it go this time?

The team
Since the last qualifiers, quite a bit has happened with this team. For the first time since our Baptism of Fire nine cycles ago, we secured a positive win-loss ratio in a tournament, securing 5 wins against 1 loss in our bronze finish in the 93rd Cup of Harmony. This was followed up by an Independent Associations Championship where an 1-1-1 group stage led to another early exit in the first round of knockouts. The team has not seen much change in that time: Rafael, Govind and Friedhelm-Rodolf are out, while Helge, Sarri, and Jean-Marie are in. Silivia remains, his... "unconventional" tactics having led to success in the CoH, while his normal ones faltered in the IAC. Will he return to those tactics or will he continue with his standard setup?

The opponents
This group has a semi-familiar feel to it. Half of these teams we have played before, half of them are new to us. Here is a quick preview of who they are and who we have faced before:

Eshialand (16) | Vs Record: 2-0-0
The only team against which we have a winning record, having faced them home and away during the last qualifiers, beating them 1-0 and 0-2. We hope (hope) (again, hope) that we will be able to continue this feat during these qualifiers. Worst-case scenario, we will have an equal record.

StrayaRoos (37) | Vs Record: N/A
We have not faced the Socceroos before, and will be playing them in MD 4 and 10. If there is one consolation for our fans: They are lower-ranked than Eshialand last cycle. So we have a theoretical chance. However theoretical it may be.

Choppyhausen (58) | Vs Record: 0-0-1
We have met only once before, during the RO32 of IAC 25, with the Crimsonites losing 0-1 on neutral ground. Hopes are there for a revanche, and to potentially take the playoff spot which they are poised to take.

Darkmania (222) | Vs Record: N/A
It is an almost thirty-spot drop in rankings between Choppyhausen and us. It is then an over 130 spot drop in the rankings between us and Darkmania. The nation that is quite far up the Hockey rankings had a similar path to ours in the most recent edition of the World Cup of Hockey: Do whatever in your Division, then end up going out in the first playoff match (for us, against Zenic, for them, against Hafamarimët).

Germanic Cat (285) | Vs Record: 1-0-1
Fans will remember the two matches in qualifying for the centennial edition differently. The first one, a 4-2 defeat, came during our initial five-game losing streak, and the other, a 4-0 victory, came during the streak where we allowed only 3 goals in 10 matches. Fans are hoping for more of the second. Chances are we will get the first.

Marnack Confederacy (UR) | Vs Record: N/A
A newcomer to the footballing scene, not that much is yet known about them. Will they be forgotten to the sea of mediocrity? Will they rise to become an eternal footballing empire? Or will they fall to the depths of lunacy, where the crazy spiral to? Only time can tell.

The best hope for our nation is to soundly defeat the sides below us in the ranking while trying to steal points from the teams above. That may give us a shot at an attempt in the playoffs. But we need to be wary of a result against a lower-ranked side going sideways. We have been the team to take games such that way. We hope the players know how to control a game from the other side.

The schedule
The group strength is middle of the road. Most teams are around the middle of their pots of 23 (Eshialand (15th in pot 1), StrayaRoos (12th in pot 2), Choppyhausen (10th in pot 3), Marnack Confederacy (on account of the many unranked nations in pot 7)), while only us (4th in pot 4) and Germanic Cat (2nd in pot 6) are high from the pot. Darkmania is the lowest from any pot, 19th from pot 5.

As for our schedule, we will be going from strong teams to lower ranked later on. We begin with the theoretically weakest, Marnack Confederacy, before going in order by strength against Eshialand, StrayaRoos, and Choppyhausen, before Germanic cat and Darkmania break this trend by being swapped, before we again meet with Marnack Confederacy to start it again.

We do have one big thing going against us, and that is that our bye has yet again landed at the very end of the qualifiers, meaning we will have everything outside of our control in the final matchday. This could be rectified by us being in a good enough position beforehand, but good luck trying to do that with this gargle of players.

The Stadium
Recently, the government took it upon themselves to build a stadium for the national team to have a familiar place at home to give an advantage. The Ministry of Culture was tasked with building this, and the ground is semi-finished before these qualifiers. This is partially due to factors outside the ministry's control, such as internal politics, and environmental factors. Part of it is, at least if the Ministry of Sport is to be believed, because the MoC forgot important features such as floodlights for night matches, screens for information and replays, a PA system for announcements, or a scoreboard for the score.

The 10.077-capacity stadium is on the smaller side compared to most international counterparts, but it has enough room around it for potential further expansions. The pitch on the other hand is on the edge of the maximum size, being 105mx68m. It is unclear why this is, as people would think that a smaller pitch would be better for a defensively-minded federation such as the SFF. In terms of capacity, about 80% of it is normal seating while the other are spread between VIP seating (108), "Club" seats (1608), and away seats (504). It is not yet clear what the "Club" seats entail, but the MoS has not raised any objections over this part of the plan.

The SAS column
The SAS (Saperetian Archive Service) has done a collaboration with The Central Chronicle, where they will be providing a column on players from the old days (cycle 93), ranking them on how well they performed during the BoF 80, those qualifiers, and CoH 85.

by **City of Myrtle Beach** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 12:01 pm

John Jon sat in the office of Brandon Miles. Miles had refused to allow John on the plane to Banija for the ARC, but this time around the FAMB forced Miles to include John in the actions of the team. So, John was about to meet the new coach of Myrtle Beach for the first time. Well, he thought he was about to. Miles had agreed to meet with John at 3pm and it was now 3:15 with no appearance by the head coach. John thought this was a waste of time. He had things to be done! He didn't want to waste thirty minutes waiting in here for a man who had clearly forgotten all about their meeting--

Brandon Miles burst into the office and walked behind his mostly empty (besides a computer and two pieces of paper) desk. He sat down, placed a pen on the desk, and looked into John's eyes. "Good morning, Jon. Sell me this pen."

John waited a moment to respond. "It's John. Not Jon."

"That's what I said. Jon."

"No, you're saying Jon with no 'h'. It's John with an 'h'."

"Is there even a difference?"

"Clearly. One has an 'h' and one doesn't."

Miles leaned back into his chair and sighed. "Okay, 'John'. Sell me this pen."

John looked at the pen. It was a very unremarkable pen. It was in normal pen gray with a normal pen cap. He reached over to touch it, but Brandon Miles swatted his hand away before he could get to it. "Don't touch it," Miles said, "that's my pen."

John's eyes widened, and he stared at Miles. "Why do you want me to sell it to you if you already own it?"

Miles thought on that for a moment. He leaned back in his chair, kicked his feet up on his desk, and looked at John. "It's a hyperspecific management evaluation technique to ensure maximum efficiency in the organization. Now, sell it to me."

"Where'd you hear about that?" John asked.

"It was, uh, a management expert."

"Who?"

"I don't know, some guy on Cicada Crumbles."

"What the hell is Cicada Crumbles?"

"It's what all the kids are using these days."

John sighed. "Is this what you've been doing instead of planning for the qualifiers? Scrolling on 'Cicada Crumbles'?"

"Well, no. Honestly, I don't even need to strategize because I'm already a football strategy genius. You know, I'm basically like the Simeone di Bradini of football."

"Simeone di Bradini is the Simeone di Bradini of football."

"Well, you- you know, you understand what I mean. The ARC was just a hiccup! We're going to come in, and we're going to beat all these no-name easy teams, and we're going to have a good time doing it. Besides, the players love me! Many people are saying I'm one of the best coaches in the locker room perhaps ever."

"Who?"

"A lot of people! Like, in the media. Social media."

"Like on Cicada Crumbles?"

"Exactly!" Miles took his feet of the desk, resumed a normal seating position, then ruined it again by leaning across the table. "Listen. You've gotta trust me. A lot of people tell me that I sound stupid or crazy but I make results! They wouldn't have hired me if I hadn't. Do you know where I was before this?"

"I..." John paused. "Well, no."

Miles continued to lean forward over the desk. "I was assistant manager at North Myrtle! Under the great Samuel Perry! We won five titles! I know what I'm doing! So, you've just gotta trust me." By this point Miles' face was just in front of John's.

"Okay, fine," John said. "I'll trust you a little bit. Just make sure you hold off on the 'Cicada Crumbles' and focus a bit more on the football."

Miles flew back into his seat. "Everything has a purpose, Jon. Everything!" He stood up and marched out of the office, leaving John in there alone. John took a minute to think about what had happened, then stood. He moved to go out of the room, but not before mumbling, "It's John, with an 'h'."

World Cup 81/82/83/84

BP at a crossroads? Depends on how you look at the landscape

The Commonwealth of Baker Park National Team will take part in qualifying for the World Cup for the 21st time--they have also co-hosted two other editions--looking to extend their current streak of reaching the Finals to six; they became the 39th nation to make at least 20 World Cups in the last tournament and went through what certainly looked in hindsight as the proverbial Group of Death, as all three of their opponents in Paradystopia reached the quarterfinals, with the co-host and The Holy Empire both making (and losing in) the semi-final.

Tiedmann Denholm's side seemed to have a bit of a hangover from their three one-goal defeats in the Finals as they participated in the group stage at the Arrosian Regional Championship, but shook off their inconsistent form to reach the semi-final for a second straight time, losing to Valanora in the consolation match on penalties.

Denholm has faced a tough slate during his 35 match stint in charge of the Gold & Black, as one third of the opposition participated in the 48 team World Cup 101 Finals, but playing strong competition is part and parcel of Baker Park's identity.

This cycle will certainly be the last for a large majority of the player pool regardless of the final disposition of the national team's campaign; there is a definite sense among followers of the domestic scene that an injection of fresh talent is needed to provide a further evolution of the "BP Way" that has been the touchstone of the Bees' success since their debut in the World Cup 80 cycle.

Only group winners will get automatic tickets to the Finals in Drawkland and The Holy Empire, with second & third placed sides requiring a playoff to advance, so BP will need to find a way to overcome top seed Sqornshelan Remnant States in Group 4 if they don't want to have to survive an extra step to qualification; The Golden Harp will also be among the opponents in the seven team, 12 match preliminary phase. Park have historically not done as well in shorter qualifying stages, so there will be a small margin for error early in the tournament against lower ranked foes. The late match defensive breakdowns that plagued the side in the World Cup and the ARC group stage must be avoided if Baker Park hope to have a realistic chance of advancement.

by **Hanalia** » Wed Oct 07, 2026 1:12 pm

Ashley reflexively picked up her handset upon hearing the ringing, "Hello?".

riiiiing, riiiiing

Confused, she looked puzzlingly at the handset as she pulled it away from her head. As the ringing continued, her eyes flicked to the machine in the corner as it beeped into life. There was another fax coming in. She'd begun her analysis into the opposition as soon as the group draw had landed. She wasn't expecting the fax machine to resurrect so soon afterwards. She arrived at the machine just as it spewed the first lines out.

Error in qualifying draw, disregard. Completed draw as follows:

Group 1
Saterun (47)

"Oh shhiiii", she mumbled to herself. This could be ... interesting. If the cat had been dead beforehand, it was now back in the box and using up another one of its superimposed lives.

Cardenao (82)

Group 9
Indusse (22)
Warkus (73)

Ashley had been well on the way back to her computer at this point in the before-times of the last draw. With Hanalia having been drawn early then, she could get a fractional jump on searching the archives for footage. Even in the most generous of analysis, the Nations League could only have been described as a stuttering start to her managerial tenure. With little on the line then, the results could easily be dismissed as everyone getting used to each other and the new competition, but qualifying has a little more pressure attached. The World Cup fever that accompanied making the finals has not easily been forgotten. Although that was seen as good fortune as much as anything, it would be wrong to say the football fans were hoping for more of the same this time around.

Kwrpania (20)
Valentine Z (26)
Riegelia (422)
The Ko-orenite Constellation (51)

Group 20

After much foot tapping and and anxious mutterings of "Come on" Ashley couldn't hold the nervousness in any longer. "What!? Still no us! Have we been forgotten? Are they going to have to do this again?" she exasperatedly enquired of the four walls that made up the office.

Bongo Johnson (248)
Kelssek (39)
Armatonisdaristan (UR)
Hanalia (50)

"Finally!" she exhaled as the seven letters she'd been waiting on appeared on the page. Followed not long after by an audible chortle, for out came the rest of the group.

Olastor (118)
Vdara (18)
New Kowloon Bay (339)

Whatever could be said of her time in charge thus far, no-one could deny the lone bright spot that was her record against the Anian groupmates. "Well that's some good luck" she remarked, turning away to restart her analysis piece afresh. The luck of the redraw had been kind. Not only had Hanalia drawn a pot one opponent they'd recently defeated, they were the only team from the top end of their pot. There were hundreds of minutes left to play and known unknowns a plenty. For now the cat has had a reprieve and will remain in its box to live and die for a while yet.

WORLD CUP 102 ꩜ Roleplay Thread

WORLD CUP 102 ꩜ Roleplay Thread

OneZeroTwo - Feelings

Kolme?

WC102Q 1

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