NationStates Jolt Archive

Pre-WCXXXII Baptism of Fire
http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png SPAAZ-CZ http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/az-cz.png

Welcome to the pre-World Cup XXXII Baptism of Fire for new nations! With the competition about to start, lets go through the ground rules. PLEASE post your roster, as soon as possible! Nothing is more frustrating than not knowing who you're playing against. Please include information such as the coach and/or manager, team colours (pictures of kits are especially welcome, and we will be more than happy to mock up some for you), and style. Style can be any number, positive or negative, and merely gives an indication as to whether you play a more offensive or defensive brand of football.

Once the competition starts, there will be one match per week (RL: DAY), to be held in either Spaam or Az-Cz. There are four groups of four, with the top two after six matchdays to progress to the quarterfinals. After the semifinals, there will be a break of one week (RL: DAY) to allow nations ample time to travel to the correct nation, as the finals will be held in Az-Cz, and the 3rd place playoff in Spaam.

And please, do not kill any players, unless invited to do so. Murder will result in your entire team being drowned in a giant pot of fondue. Cheating will probably just result in your coach being drowned. You have been warned!

Schedule

#1 1 v 2, 4 v 3
#2 1 v 4, 3 v 2
#3 3 v 1, 4 v 2
#4 2 v 1, 3 v 4
#5 4 v 1, 2 v 3
#6 1 v 3, 2 v 4

First matchday starts 1am Thursday UTC

Spaamanian Groups

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Group Crosshill
1. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/race_track.png Race Track
2. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_deathbat_republic.png The Deathbat Republic
3. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/snub_nose_39.png Snub Nose 39
4. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/paleoslavia.png Paleoslavia

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Group Al Quds
1. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/nomadasia.png Nomadasia
2. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/stromboland.png Stromboland
3. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/dumania.png Dumania
4. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_new_hypocria.png The New Hypocria


Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Paleoslavia 3 1 2 0 5 3 5 +2 62
Race Track 3 1 1 1 4 4 4 +0 50
Snub Nose 39 3 1 1 1 5 6 4 -1 45
The Deathbat Republic 3 0 2 1 3 4 2 -1 42

Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 3 2 0 1 5 1 6 +4 83
Dumania 3 1 1 1 4 4 4 +0 50
Nomadasia 3 1 1 1 4 6 4 -2 40
Stromboland 3 1 0 2 2 4 3 -2 33

Az-Czid Groups

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/az-cz.png Group Giant Zucchini
1. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_hurd.png The HURD
2. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/anrow.png Anrow
3. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/cafundeu.png Cafundeu
4. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/fort_europe.png Fort Europe

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/az-cz.png Group Dennisov
1. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/salwinia.png Salwinia
2. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/choobie_international.png Choobie International
3. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_gold_tygrr.png The Gold TyGrr
4. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/noremark.png Noremark


Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu 3 2 1 0 6 4 7 +2 60
Fort Europe 3 1 2 0 4 3 5 +1 57
Anrow 3 1 0 2 4 5 3 -1 44
The HURD 3 0 1 2 4 6 1 -2 40

Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Salwinia 3 2 0 1 8 5 6 +3 61
Noremark 3 2 0 1 8 6 6 +2 57
The Gold TyGrr 3 1 0 2 5 7 3 -2 41
Choobie International 3 1 0 2 5 8 3 -3 38

Pizelkaxrovsky himself had flown all the way to Spaam to be the person to do the actual pulling of names. As the Most Valuable Player from the dominant champions of the World Cup 30 Baptism of Fire team he was a logical choice. With him being chosen as the announcer it was only fair that the draw itself be conducted in Spaam, so here he was.

"I'd like to welcome you all here to Spaam on this wonderful day to begin your nation's footballing futures. While the path is long and difficult, I would like to remind you that a hardworking lucky team can quickly advance on their fortunes. As a matter of fact three teams from my baptism of fire just two cups ago made the world cup proper last cup, and one, my team Az-cz made it to the knockout round. So that proves that the Baptism of Fire can be a springboard to bigger and better things. With that I wish you all luck. May the best team win."

"First we will be drawing the names for the teams to be travelling to Az-cz. The groups have been named after formerly powerful nations, that younger nations can aspire towards. First we will draw the Giant Zucchini group. The HURD, Anrow, Cafundeu, Fort Europe. You will be travelling to Az-cz. Joining you there in group Dennisov are Salwinia, Choobie International, The Gold TyGrr, and Noremark. We will have another draw meeting to explain the procedures for the Az-czid groups in Az-cz."

"Now we will announce the teams for the Spaam groups. First up is group Al Quds. Nomadasia, Stromboland, Dumania, The New Hypocria. Which leaves Race Track, The Deathbat Republic, Snub Nose 39, and Paleoslavia in group Crosshill. Good luck to all teams competing in both nations."


OOC: Role Playing is very very important in this cup. A good roleplayer can really increase their chances of winning. I'd definitely say winning the tournament was a direct result of my RP. As for World Cup success, it can't be counted on, but through good consistent RP you have a good chance to move up, even if it doesn't mean making the world cup on your second try.

Former Az-cz national team coach James Levesque makes an introductory speech.

"To the eight teams competing here in Az-cz we hope you enjoy your stay. Although most of our stadiums are designed in a rather medieval style, in honor of the land of legendary creator, you will find that our nation itself is quite modern. The people are quite friendly and although we are a nation of thieves you can rest assured that nothing will be stolen from you while you are here. We value are international friendships very much. Feel free to ask us questions as you feel fit. You may find that our non-materialistic society is quite different from your own, but we will still provide you a great time. While you are here we invite you to check out our native Az-czid sports, such as Kleptochase, which is winding down it's season, as well as Kleptoball, Kleptodance and Capture the Flag."

"Now to the procedures of this cup in particular each team will be drawn with a host city and host stadium. Each team will use that city as it's base of operations and use that stadium in matches where they are listed as host. This will make it easier for your team to arrange itself and also for your fans to travel to matches and make arrangements. Each stadium has it's own character and teams that can use that to their advantage will be able to benefit. Also, we will allow some modifications, such as the temporary painting of your nations colors, desired logos and so on. Please make an official request to the Az-cz football federation if you so desire such modifications."

"The first team up is The HURD. They have been drawn into Burlock Castle, in Mil-Bax. Burlock Castle is one of the most popular stadiums in all of Az-cz. With brilliant design the stadium really does feel like a historical castle. Home to the -League's Burlock Jester's it is quite an imposing place for first time visitors. Mil-Bax is also Az-cz's second largest city. As such there are plenty of options available for visitors there."

"Next up is Anrow, who have been drawn into Ji-Wa Town. Their home stadium is Darzog Tower. Named after a supposed legendary magician, the stadium has been designed to feel both like a tower and a feeling of magic. And to fit its name the stadium actually does sit much more vertical than most stadiums. However the architects thought very carefully about how to preserve sight and safety, so it is actually a fine if unusual fan experience."

"Cafundeu, the third team have been drawn into Slimes Stadium. This stadium is located in Az-cz City, the capital of the nation. The stadium is both the biggest and most luxurious in Az-cz. As the Slimes are one of the most popular and most powerful teams in the nation they have a very fine stadium. Being located in the capital also allows for many perks that smaller cities can't provide."

"Fort Europe has been assigned the Temple of Yak, located in Jex-Kia. The Temple of Yak has been purposefully designed to have a feeling of grunginess and spookiness, to fit the recorded evil nature of the clerics the team that plays here are named after. We encourage Fort Europe to try to turn that to their benefit."

"Now for the teams in the other group. Salwinia will be camped in Port Mid-Mjr. There they will play in the Golem Goliseum. With a focus on rock exterior the stadium is designed to give a very solid feel. Port Mid-Mjr is a beautiful sea side city and the Goliseum is just a short streetcar ride to the pier, so fans of Salwinia will be provided a wonderful experience."

"Choobie International has been drawn into Knights Coliseum. Home to the Yang Knights, the most succesful team in -League history, Knights Coliseum is a top notch stadium. With the greatest history of all -League teams this is a great place to learn about Az-czid football, for those who are interested. The Az-czid Football Hall of Fame, has just opened in the host city of Es-Ef, and fans are encouraged to visit there."

"The Gold TyGrr, have been drawn to the only elevated stadium in the nation. Known as Mile High Stadium it is also known simply as "The Clouds" in honor of the team, the Cloud Harpies. This city is in the only real mountain range in Az-cz and does indeed sit a mile high. This elevation can provide an advantage to teams that are used to it.

"And Noremark will be in the Ben-Degly Pagoda, in Fort Ben-Degly. As one might expect the architecture here has a strongly Japanese flavor. The name Fort Ben-Degly is somewhat misleading, as rather than being a military city, it is a home to one of Az-cz's largest international populations. I'm sure Noremark will blend in fine while they are there."

"We can provide assistance to each team as they set up their base of operations. Please contact the football federation for support."

_____________________________________________________________

Schedule for Matches in Az-cz:

Group Giant Zucchini

MD1
Burlock Castle: The Hurd v Anrow
Temple of Yak: Fort Europe v Cafundeu
MD2
Burlock Castle: The Hurd v Fort Europe
Slimes Stadium: Cafundeu v Anrow
MD3
Slimes Stadium: Cafundeu v The Hurd
Temple of Yak: Fort Europe v Anrow
MD4
Darzog's Tower: Anrow v The Hurd
Slimes Stadium: Cafundeu v Fort Europe
MD5
Temple of Yak: Fort Europe v The Hurd
Darzog's Tower: Anrow v Cafundeu
MD6
Burlock Castle: The Hurd v Cafundeu
Temple of Yak: Anrow v Fort Europe

Group Dennisov

MD1
Golem Goliseum: Salwinia v Choobie International
Ben-Degly Pagoda: Noremark v The Gold TyGrr
MD2
Golem Goliseum: Salwinia v Noremark
Mile High Stadium: The Gold TyGrr v Choobie International
MD3
Mile High Stadium: The Gold TyGrr v Salwinia
Ben-Degly Paogda: Noremark v Choobie International
MD4
Knight's Coliseum: Choobie International v Salwinia
Mile High Stadium: The Gold TyGrr v Noremark
MD5
Ben-Degly Pagoda: Noremark v Salwinia
Knight's Coliseum: Choobie International v The Gold TyGrr
MD6
Golem Goliseum: Salwinia v The Gold TyGrr
Knight's Coliseum: Choobie International v Noremark

OOC: If I messed up any team names or you see anything else that looks wrong let me know. Feel free to take some liberties in describing the cities and what not. I'll let you know if there's anything I really have a problem. But no having my citizens doing bad things. We're friendly peaceful people.

Two 'official' types at the The New Hypocria FA are discussing their entry to the Baptism of Fire...

"Are we in this Baptism of Fire Cuppy thing?"

"It appears so."

"Ah. So how do they work out who wins?"

"Something to do with something called 'RP', I've heard."

"What's that? I thought it was something to do with goals?"

"Apparently it is, but these 'RP' thingies help your team score."

"As opposed to just peppering the opposition goal with shots."

"Apparently so."

"So what is it?"

"Something to do with people from the nations taking part talking about the cup."

"But isn't that what we're doing?"

"Yup."

"And aren't we supposed to be deliberately trying to under-achieve, just to spite the rest of the world's under-achievers?"

"Yup."

"So hadn't we better shut the hell up?"

"That sounds like a plan."

"Before we do, they want a roster from us."

"Oh. Well... er... we can't do that. That'll give us more of that 'RP' stuff."

"Oh. Well what shall we do?"

"There's a few options. One - copy the Archregiamncy's policy of anonymity. Two - Give all of our players the same name, in the style of Collonie. Or Three - Steal a roster from another team from years ago that nobody's ever heard of and pass it off as our own."

"I like the last option. It means we don't have to explain ourselves, so we'll have a roster submitted but won't get any bonus for it!"

"OK. Here goes..."

(Copied from here (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=6986568&postcount=36))

REGIA ANGLORUM INFO FILE
Manager: Steve Gordon Orangeson
Assistant : Tord Gripe
Strip: Scarlet with gold trim

Team Roster
GK : David 'The Cat' Green (Crewe Alexandra)
DL: John Vaugn (Regia FC)
DC: Steven Chelidze (Shaktar FC)
DC: Ian Taylor (Crewe Alexandra)
DR: Danny Gibbidon (Regia FC)
ML: James Mulner (Regia FC)
DMC: Christian Triori (Captain, Regia FC)
MC: James Ehlander (Ajax FC)
MR: William McMaster (Barnet FC)
FC: John Stead (Blackburn Rovers)
FC: Tim Janster (Regia FC)

"You might want to cross out the Regia Anglorum part."

"OK. And we need a style."

"How about -2?"

"OK. And we need a non-default flag."

"Got one."

"We have?"

"Yes."

"Since when?"

"Since about ten minutes ago."

"Oh. What does it look like?"

"The old Hypocria flag."

"So original..."

"But we changed the clours about a bit. Look."

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_new_hypocria.png

"The Spaamanians haven't got the updated one yet, have they?"

"No. How about like this..."

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/the_new_hypocria.jpg

"I hate to say it, but that looks quite good. One last question - do we have anything original?"

"No. Now shut up before we start doing well in this thing!"

"Sorry!"

"Shh!"

*mouths sorry*

*puts finger to lips*

FORT EUROPE

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

The Commonwealth nation of Fort Europe proudly presents it's national football team for the 32nd NSWC Baptism of Fire tournement. The team travelled to the great nation of Az-Cz by care of the Commonwealth Aviation Authority early this morning with high levels of anticipation as they looked forward to the beginning of what we all anticipate to be their hardest ever competition. Fort Europe has had a long history of football, not only internally but as hosts to major leagues and tournements within The YoungWorld region. Their latest accolade received just two weeks ago as they became champions of the first ever Mchuno Chombo cup. Now they look towards the NationStates BoF tournement and a chance to prove themselves on such a grand stage.

The team arrived in their host city, Jex-Kia, this morning looking calm and relaxed despite the vast distance they travelled to get here, and will begin training later this evening in thier designated stadium. From all accounts the Temple of Yak stadium is a fearsome piece of architecture designed in a medieval style that almost brings it alive when filled to capacity, something the supporters travelling out from the Commonwealth will make great use of, and team manager Stuart Moss will be looking to take advantage of the massive supporting crouds that will be following them around the stadiums here in Az-Cz. It is expected that well over a million football fanatics will make the long journey out, despite a severe shortage of seats in the stadiums and no doubt black market tickets will be the order of the day. Many are expected to take shelter in Jex-Kia it's self to watch the game in one of the many bars and pubs of this ultra modern city, while others will make their way to one of several big screens located around the city.

Let us now talk about the team, all are familier faces to the fans of Commonwealth football, particularly in Fort Europe it's self, but few people in nations beyond our own will so easily recognise the names. Team Manager Stuart Moss has picked what many are calling Fort Europes strongest side ever with a good mixture of experience and raw tallent. Assistant manage Ria Gaskell also travelled out with the team apparently with a huge smile plastered accross her face in light of her recent marage, and she is joined by no less than six supporting staff. Notable faces in the squad it's self include Goalkeeper James West, the sides longest serving player, along with strikers Michelle Bishop and Karl Isaak who will be looking to place their names on the scoresheet at every opportunity. So here is the full list.

Manager - Stuart Moss
Coach - Ria Gaskell
Coach - Josh Melannis
Coach - Sam Jones
Coach - Ian Holbeach
Physio - Tanya Gilmore
Physio - Victoria Sevenoaks
Publicity - Alysa Tiana

GK - 01 - James West
GK - 13 - Ed Russell
GK - 23 - Tom Reas
DF - 02 - Floe Peltsten
DF - 03 - Tim Forrester (C)
DF - 12 - Laura Harris
DF - 14 - Shaun Pearson
DF - 04 - Murphy Lee
DF - 15 - Mike Young
DF - 20 - Aki Haddon
MF - 16 - Will Jones
MF - 05 - Gemma Lloyd
MF - 06 - Katherine Keller
MF - 07 - Ryan Holmes
MF - 17 - Vicky Princess
MF - 08 - Andy Fletcher
MF - 18 - Mia Nevola
MF - 22 - Edowine Sanjuan
AF - 09 - Michelle Bishop
AF - 10 - Chris Lessinger
AF - 19 - Ian Sikes
AF - 24 - Del Jenkins
AF - 11 - Karl Isaak
AF - 25 - Josephine Blanchard

Primary formation: 4 - 4 - 2
Secondary formation: 4 - 3 - 3

Team Kits:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v495/SgtShezz/League/FortEuropeHomeAway.jpg

Fixtures:

Fort Europe v Cafundeu
@ Temple of Yak

The HURD v Fort Europe
@ Burlock Castle

Fort Europe v Anrow
@ Temple of Yak

Cafundeu v Fort Europe
@ Slimes Stadium

Fort Europe v The HURD
@ Temple of Yak

Anrow v Fort Europe
@ Darzog Tower

Now we await the opening match, which by vertue of the draw places Fort Europe against the as yet unknown force of Cafundeu at the Temple of Yak. The match promises to be a spectical with the stadium packed to capacity and a chance for the Fort Europe supporters to raise the roof with some of their now legendary football songs, and a chance for the side who have travelled all the way from the Commonwealth in The YoungWorld to show their stuff in front of this International audience on the largest sporting stage in the whole of NationStates. Now it begins.

From the Desk of Will Gettys Head of Okiean Soccer Federation
To All Nations in the Baptism of Fire for WC XXXII
RE: Good Luck!

As the runner ups of Baptism of Fire 18, (World Cup XXXI(, we feel oblidged to wish all nations involved good luck in this edition of the Baptism of Fire. Good Luck and God Bless

Will Gettys, Chairman OSF

Cafundéu's chosen 23 list:

The CCFM(Confederação Cafundelense de Futebol Masculino - in English, Cafundéu's Male Football Confederation) has the pleasure to release the list of the 23 players that will play in this football competition and will give all their efforts to win every game.

The coach Franz Braddock, former NT player and very good in tactics, chose the players. The CCFM accepted the list and liked it very much. All the players are fully fit, without injuries and ready to play the games and train with the team. The staff is also ready to do their best for the team.

The list was full of surprises, too much to put here, and some famous players were left in their houses while another ones take their places. But, surprises aside, the list is very good, although most of the players have an offensive attitude. All the players play in the domestic league. Braddock also said that he has a backup list in case
of injuries.

See the list of the 23 players:

Goalkeepers:

1-Júlio VARGAS (Team: Petardos S/A)
Height: 202cm - Weight: 90kg - Date of Birth: 30/01/1972(34 years old)
A very experienced goalkeeper, who played for many top clubs of Cafundéu and in some foreign clubs. He is very secure, doesn't make much fantastic saves, but doesn't make mistakes too, so he's a good option in important games. The opponent's supporters pressure doesn't affect him, he concentrates himself in the game and nothing can distract him. He is good in saving penalties and in the aerial balls, and has great influence and command. A natural option for the place of captain too. Is in the NT since 1998.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: B - Form: A

12-Sérgio Polagrossa "DUREPOX" (Team: Central United)
Height: 200cm - Weight: 85kg - Date of Birth: 12/10/1980(26 years old)
Durepox wasn't a famous goalkeeper. He plays in a minor team of the First Division and didn't appear much, but last year his team reached the semifinals of the cup and he saved the team, making them reach the final. He likes to make fantastic saves, jumping a lot and posing to the cameras, and sometimes he makes some ugly mistakes. When he gets
the ball he doesn't let it escapes him. He is very famous outside the field and likes to be noticed. Can go to a bigger club next year.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: A

23-"SÃO" PEDRO Elmaz Borges (Team: Atlético Jutense)
Height: 190cm - Weight: 83kg - Date of Birth: 25/12/1988(18 years old)
A new star. His talent is still unexplored, but the coach is certain that he will be a very good goalkeeper in the future. Got the position in the Atlético Jutense team only this year. Normally he is a normal keeper, saving some balls and suffering some goals, but sometimes he makes a miracle, and because of these miracles he is called "saint". Can be the main goalkeeper of the team in the next World Cups, but not is this competition.
Rating: C - Team Relationship: B - Morale: A - Form: B

Right Defenders:

2-Flávio VANDICK Coletti (Team: SC Lasft)
Height: 188cm - Weight: 80kg - Date of Birth: 02/02/1982(24 years old)
Vandick played in Faculdade de Medicina team until 2004. Then, his talent was discovered and he's now in SC Lasft. He is a very calm and fast right-back, good in tacking and dribbling. He is also good in set pieces. But he hasn't much strength and stamina and he often leaves the game before the end. He is very intelligent and his team mates like
him. Can be a good surprise.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

22-Francisco Macedo Juarez "CAFÉZINHO" (Team: Cafundó do Juta)
Height: 165cm - Weight: 64kg - Date of Birth: 17/08/1975(31 years old)
Played as a starter in the National Team for many years, but now it's a sub. He won his nickname because he loves a good cup of coffee, and drinks before the games. His main ability is the speed, he is extremely fast. He isn't good at heading and finishing, although his passing is ok. He is very offensive and doesn't like to defend. His form is far from perfect, and his morale is low too.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: C - Form: C

Left Defenders:

3-Ray KIRS (Team: Petardos S/A)
Height: 173cm - Weight: 70kg - Date of Birth: 13/09/1979(27 years old)
Ray Kirs is one of the most complete footballers of Cafundéu. He has great vision, passing and tackling, and his finishing and heading isn't bad. He lacks some speed and is extremely tactical, and his team mates respect him. He has a lot of confidence from the coach and from the supporters. He doesn't like to talk to the media and to the press and trains hard. His form seems perfect and his morale is good, although he doesn't seem happy because his brother isn't in the NT(Farsey Kirs).
Rating: A - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A

18-Sílvio Natanael FUCHS (Team: A.F.F.)
Height: 179cm - Weight: 72kg - Date of Birth: 22/04/1984(22 years old)
Fuchs's presence in the list is a major surprise. He started to play as a starter in the AFF team only this year, but is playing really well and on top form. He is nervous to play this competition and worried about his future, because his contract with AFF will end soon. He had some problems with some players of the squad and probably won't continue in the team. He is very good at passing and tacking, but poor in finishing. His speed and will is normal, and he can even play some games.
Rating: C - Team Relationship: C - Morale: B - Form: A

Central Defenders:

4-João Chico Tripa de Boi "BECÃO" (Team: Ranca Toco)
Height: 190cm - Weight: 95kg - Date of Birth: 08/01/1980(26 years old)
Becão plays with much will and using all his strength, so he is feared by the attackers. His tacking is awesome and his passing is good. But he is very slow and can't finish well, unless he uses his head to try to score(he can use his head well). He obeys the coach and is a good option for the place of captain(but Vargas will be the captain). Talks a lot in the media and is a hero in his team. He is considered the second strongest player in Cafundéu and one of the most determined too.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

13-SÁVIO FERRARI Andrada (Team: Pernetas EC)
Height: 176cm - Weight: 76kg - Date of Birth: 15/06/1981(25 years old)
Sávio Ferrari is a solid defender, known for his regular performances. He isn't a special player, but his tackling and passing is good and he can even finish well. Sávio is a quiet person too. Nobody knows what he is thinking or feeling, and his personal life is unknown too. But he surely is a good option for the team.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A

15-Danilo Souza DUCAS (Team: Dunboor FC)
Height: 168cm - Weight: 73kg - Date of Birth: 11/07/1973(33 years old)
Ducas has the same style of play that Sávio. He has regular performances and good tacking, passing and finishing. But he isn't a quiet person, he doesn't avoid the media and gives many interviews. He is reaching the end of his career and will probably be a coach after he retires. This can be his last professional competition.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: B - Form: C

20-WANTUIRSO Silveira da Alvorada (Team: Tabajara)
Height: 184cm - Weight: 90kg - Date of Birth: 28/11/1976(29 years old)
Wantuirso plays in a minor team of the first division, Tabajara. He is very wise and gives advices to the younger players. He is good at heading and tacking. His passing isn't very good, so he shoot the ball to the attack very often, and misses many passes. He is looking for a move, maybe to Ranca Toco, and will work hard to get this contract. Sometimes he can be a little annoying, but he likes his team mates. But he doesn't control the pressure to play in the NT.
Rating: C - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

Defensive Midfielders:

5-Mukulaiê Bakarangobadah Zulaiêká "ANORMAL" (Team: SC Lasft)
Height: 210cm - Weight: 106kg - Date of Birth: 31/12/1986(19 years old)
A monster in the field, Anormal has a strange past. His father is a famous scientist, and his mother is unknown. Many sources say that Anormal is an experience made by his father, but this is only a theory. Anormal is young, but surely the best player of the team. Taller and heavier than any other player of the team, he has more abilities than anyone. Great physical strength, very fast and is good at everything(heading, shooting, passing, tacking). His only weakness is that he doesn't want to hurt his opponent, so he tries to get the ball in a gentle way, being dribbled sometimes. But everybody loves him and he'll surely play all the games.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: A

14-MANUEL PADARIA Gama Cabral (Team: Atlético Jutense)
Height: 180cm - Weight: 76kg - Date of Birth: 22/04/1982(24 years old)
Manuel Padaria is from a Portuguese family and came to Cafundéu to play football. After some years, he got his Cafundéu passport and now plays in the NT. A classic defensive midfielder, helps the defense taking many balls and creates some plays to the attack, but can't finish well, even with his head. But he can score some goals shooting from outside the area. His positioning is poor and he doesn't receive many passes. But his will to play and good relationship with supporters, staff and team mates make him a very good option.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

16-Saulo Mehmet Mustapha Soares MENZIR (Team: Cafundó do Juta)
Height: 171cm - Weight: 73kg - Date of Birth: 08/05/1978(28 years old)
Saulo Menzir was the most important defensive midfielder of Cafundéu for many years, but now is only the third option. He was a great players, but he had an injury last year and now his ability was very reduced(now he has nearly 50% of his potential). He can't finish well, his dribbling is horrible and his heading isn't good. But his passing and tacking is still good, and maybe he can help the team. He has problems with his physical condition and he is frustrated because of that, but he is still respected.
Rating: C - Team Relationship: A - Morale: C - Form: D

Neutral Midfielders:

6-Marcos Afonso PRIOTTO (Team: Ranca Toco)
Height: 168cm - Weight: 77kg - Date of Birth: 15/02/1978(26 years old)
Priotto is very famous. He change his team very often(once per year), but plays with the same form in all the teams that he plays. His style is a bit more defensive, but he can attack well. His passing is his main ability, while the others are balanced. The only club that he said that he'll never play is Petardos S/A, because of some problems that he had with the coach Caio Meback, while he was playing at Pernetas EC. He has some problems with his team mates and gets involved in a lot of confusions, being violent and impatient, but most of his team mates still think that he is a loyal person.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A

8-Gustavo MERCEGUES (Team: Petardos S/A)
Height: 177cm - Weight: 80kg - Date of Birth: 27/10/1974(32 years old)
Mercegues played his entire career for Petardos S/A, the biggest team of male football in Cafundéu. Now that he is approaching the end of his career, he has a chance to compete in a major international competition, and he wants to play well and its excited with this experience. He is much more offensive than Priotto, but his passing and tacking is worse than Priotto's. His biggest qualities are the dribbling, finishing and ability to create plays and goal chances for the attackers. His form wasn't so good lately, but he still plays very well and has a lot of confidence.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: C

Attacking Midfielders:

7-Ricardo Steppt KLIEK (Team: Dunboor FC)
Height: 166cm - Weight: 68kg - Date of Birth: 19/07/1986(20 years old)
Kliek is a young player that is discovering his style and starting to play very well. He is a very offensive midfielder, and doesn't defend. His passing, dribbling and finishing are OK, and his heading isn't so good. But he is very creative and can make good plays and create a lot of goal chance for his team mates. He can also get lost balls, that were almost leaving the field, reaching it with speed. He is also very funny and likes to make jokes and to provoke the opponents.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

10-José Bebum BRAHMA (Team: Clube Comercial)
Height: 183cm - Weight: 81kg - Date of Birth: 10/01/1983(23 years old)
Brahma plays in a team recently promoted to the first division. He is one of the biggest prospects of the country, and now is in the NT. He is offensive and likes to go to the right side of the field to start to make his plays and to create some goal chances. He crosses the ball a lot and has good dribbling. Short passes are his weak point. He isn't good in taking free kick or penalties, but he is very good in taking corner kicks. He is good at heading too. He has some problems with alcohol and he gets drunk easily. His team mates doesn't like him very much and he doesn't have many friends.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: C - Morale: A - Form: A

17-Leonardo HAUSER (Team: Cafundó do Juta)
Height: 170cm - Weight: 67kg - Date of Birth: 26/03/1981(25 years old)
It's the first time that Hauser goes to the NT of Cafundéu, and he's very happy with the possibility to use the NT shirt for the first time in his career, but he probably won't play. He is the less prepared player between the 23 and the less talented. But he dribbles well. His other abilities are normal, nothing special and he's slow and isn't very determined. He is quiet, but his team mates like him.
Rating: D - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: B

Attackers:

9-Ganz IJAK (Team: Petardos S/A)
Height: 182cm - Weight: 82kg - Date of Birth: 14/05/1976(30 years old)
Best goalscorer of the league and the most dangerous striker of Cafundéu, Ganz Ijak can score in many ways. He uses well his head, shoots well from any distance and can do some great plays. When he has a chance to score, he scores. He isn't very good to create plays or to pass or tackle, but his finishing and dribbling is great, and because of that he is one of the most respected footballers of Cafundéu. Ijak also is very calm and respect his opponents, and didn't receive many cards and didn't make fouls. His brother had some problems and lost his place in the starting eleven of the NT, but Ganz isn't sad with this situation. He also has a very good relationship with the coach Franz Braddock and with Gustavo Mercegues.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: A - Morale: A - Form: A

11-HEITOR Abbade (Team: A.F.F.)
Height: 178cm - Weight: 72kg - Date of Birth: 25/05/1985(21 years old)
Got a place in the first team of Cafundéu after the bad performances of Ernesto Ijak. He doesn't score the same amount of goals that Ganz Ijak scores, but he has a very good finishing too. His heading isn't accurate and his dribbling is far from perfect, but his passing is good. He likes to press the opponent defender and try to take the ball from him. He also can create some goal chances. When he is not playing he works in the CCFM judging the referees, and has a good future as a player. He also has a good relationship with the media, but not with the coach, that doesn't like his style.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A

19-Ernesto IJAK (Team: Petardos S/A)
Height: 178cm - Weight: 76kg - Date of Birth: 24/08/1980(26 years old)
The brother of Ganz Ijak doesn't have all the ability of his brother, but is a very good striker too. He didn't score many goals, but when he is playing with his brother he likes to give all the goal chances to him. His finish is good and he has a good dribbling and heading, but he can't tackle the ball and doesn't pass to other players(only to his brother). Because of that his team mates don't like him very much. He isn't very happy because he is a bench player right now, but he still thinks that he can get a place in the starting eleven. Many people think that he is arrogant.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: C - Morale: B - Form: C

21-Ralf Orlando INCISIVO (Team: SC Lasft)
Height: 170cm - Weight: 71kg - Date of Birth: 28/07/1983(23 years old)
The most balanced attacker, Incisivo can score goals and create plays with the same ability. His passing, dribbling and finishing are good. Only his tacking is poor. He can play with any other striker, because he can adapt his style with the style of his partner. So he is a good option in emergency cases. He is modest, and is impressed that he is in the National Team, but he knows that he probably won't play very much. Some people think that Incisivo isn't very professional, and doesn't like to train very much.
Rating: C - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Form: A

Staff:

Coach: Franz BRADDOCK (Former Petardos S/A coach)
Height: 183cm - Weight: 92kg - Date of Birth: 03/04/1948(58 years old)
One of the best midfielders of Cafundéu's history, Franz Braddock was extremely motivated, determinated and tactical. And he continues with these abilities as a coach. After coaching many great teams and winning a lot of trophies, he was an unanimous choice to be the coach of the NT. So, he left Petardos S/A(that now is coached by Caio Meback) and started to build a team that suited his style to battle for the objectives of the country. His training is very tough and tiring, he wants to extract the best of his players, and some players don't like this. But he continues being the savior of the country and the only one that can give victories to the team.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: B - Morale: A - Confidence: A

Assistant Coach: João CANABRAVA (Former Ranca Toco player)
Height: 172cm - Weight: 78kg - Date of Birth: 27/09/1955(51 years old)
Has a very different style of coaching. While Braddock is tough and tactical, Canabrava likes to give freedom to the players and focuses in team relationship. He isn't happy in being only an assistant coach, and wants to take advantage of the confidence that the directors have on him to get a better job soon. When he was the coach, the players could go out at night and only return in the other day. To tell the truth, even Canabrava leaves the training ground sometimes.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: A - Morale: C - Confidence: A

Spy: PAI Oxossi de Guibar DINAH
Height: 158cm - Weight: 64kg - Date of Birth: 06/06/1916(80 years old)
Pai Dinah(or Pai Oxossi) is the spy of the team. He says that he can discover the most deeper secrets of the opponent talking with the opponent players and using his secret talents. He is a very strange person and many people say that he is crazy. But he does his work well, and most of the times he discover the secrets of the enemy.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: C - Morale: B - Confidence: B

Physical Trainer: GIOVANNI Vital Mendes (Former Dunboor FC)
Height: 190cm - Weight: 92kg - Date of Birth: 16/05/1968(38 years old)
Giovanni is nothing special. He is a normal physical trainer, and does well his job. The players have a good relationship with him and he has the confidence of the board. He was a boxing champion, but already retired. Has 8 children and 4 of them want to be boxing fighters, and the other 4 want to be their managers.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Confidence: B

Entertainer: SERGINHO MALLANDRO (Former TV Gazeta)
Height: 175cm - Weight: 88kg - Date of Birth: ???(above 40 years old)
The players and the staff need to be relaxed to play all the games. So, Serginho Mallandro's job is to make jokes, play games and help to make everybody happy. Sometimes he can be a bit annoying with his phrases like "Glu-glu", or "Bilu-bilu tetéia" and other ones, and even the directors don't like him very much, but he will stay with the NT. He also works with the female NT.
Rating: A - Team Relationship: C - Morale: B - Confidence: D

Doctor: Dra. LUANA CELESTE (Former Juta Hospital)
Height: 164cm - Weight: 52kg - Date of Birth: 12/02/1968(38 years old)
A very famous doctor in the sporting area, Luana knows what to do and it's ready for any problems. Is well paid and got this well deserved position. She has some problems with Serginho Mallandro(she hates his bad jokes) and the masseur Ulisses Carambola is at her command. Cafundéu can sleep safer with her.
Rating: B - Team Relationship: B - Morale: B - Confidence: A

The Directors:

Director of the NT: MR. Erasmo Carlos JOWENGUARD
Date of Birth: 09/11/1928(77 years old) - Time in the job: 12 years
Jowenguard's family is one of the founders of the CCFM. He was the president of the CCFM for 30 years, but health problems made him renounce. Now, without problems, he has the job of director of the National Teams(less important), but he still has great influence in the CCFM and in the CFFC, choosing the NT coach and changing some things that he shouldn't change(I won't give any details about it).
Rating: A - Influence: A - Morale: D - Confidence: A

President of the CCFM: Counselor-Minister of Sports MR. Samuel MAKAS
Date of Birth: 26/07/1948(58 years old) - Time in the job: 2 years
2 months ago, the president of the CCFM Sabrina Arrojo died. An election was held to decide who would take her place. Miguel Jóia, manager of players, tried to get the place, but the counselor-minister of sports won. The counsellor Makas is one of the most important members of Cafundéu's government. He isn't very flexible in the job, and his influence inside the CCFM, even being a counselor, is low(Jowenguard controls the CCFM more than him), but he has the confidence of all the directors and is improving his qualities. He is very ambitious and wants more money at all costs. He was involved in corruption schemes involving clubs and players last year, but no proof was shown.
Rating: C - Influence: C - Morale: A - Confidence: B

The formation:

First option: Offensive 4-4-2. The right and left-backs are very offensive, and so are the midfielders(Brahma and Kliek) Priotto plays as a defensive midfielder. (Will be used in the first game).

Style: 2 to the attack.

--------------------Vargas--------------------
--Vandick-----Becão-------Sávio F.-----Kirs---
----------Anormal----------Priotto------------
-----Brahma------------------------Kliek------
-------------G.Ijak-----Heitor----------------

Second option: Defensive 4-5-1. 3 defensive midfielders and the right and left-backs with a more defensive attitude.

Style: 3 to the defense.

--------------------Vargas--------------------
--Vandick-----Becão-------Sávio F.-----Kirs---
----------Anormal----------M.Padaria----------
------------------Mercegues-------------------
--------Heitor-----------------Kliek----------
-------------------G.Ijak---------------------

The CCFM also is very happy to being in the most luxurious stadium of Az-Cz. They're waiting for a great competition, and soon they'll give their first press conference.

(Obs: Ratings and the other stats were only made to compare the stats of the players between my team)

The kits(home and away):

http://www.ciashop.com.br/boutiquedofutebol/Assets/product_images/zoom/camisadopaulistafren.jpg http://i.s8.com.br/images/sport/cover/img5/1402045.jpg

Noremark National Roster + Group Analysis
Team Colors: Red and Navy Blue
Team Mascot: The Royals

Head Coach: Noren Yulenik
Style: 3-4-3 (+3)

Pos Num Name School
GK 77 Ronen Renimasje Forester University
RD 23 Yannik Sasken Lighthouse University
CD 31 Arsen Inkovik Kapitalen University
LD 26 Hans Solne Kanal State University
RM 69 Enrik Malsen Storke University
CM 38 Alekson Krasentor Forester University
CM 06 Slav Kanonen Telemark State University
LM 12 Hakan Stravik Telemark State University
RF 21 Sebastian Ryhers Lighthouse University
CF 07 Niels Wilkinson Forester University
LF 15 Lars Aranosk Storke University

Reserves:
Pos Num Name School
GK 05 Sonner Marken Kanal University
D 53 Alekson Strojens Telemark State University
D 37 Stryer Kastelit Forester University
D 12 Malen Akstrasen Kanal State University
M 25 Yohan Kredisket Storke University
M 10 Konor Tronne Telemark State University
M 36 Frone Emerson Kapitalen Univeristy
F 52 Matias Niksje Kanal State University
F 72 Kristof Nalik Lighthouse University

Choose My Goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players Y [Nothing too severe]
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y [Be reasonable, though]

The National Football Team of Noremark has been recently drawn into the Dennisov Group, which will be held in Az-Cz. Noremark joins Salwinia, Choobie International, and The Gold TyGrr as the fourth member of the group. Also chosen at the Baptism of Fire group draws were the home fields, where Noremark recieved a rather fine venue. Noremark will be playing all home games in the Ben-Degly Pagoda, a beautiful Japanese inspired stadium that will provide for many great photo opportunities. The Pagoda is located in Fort Ben-Degly, home to one of the host nations most diverse population. No doubt in the days to come the city will be inhabited by Nordic tourists in town for the tournament. Noremark will play its first match against The Gold TyGrr at the Ben-Degly Pagoda. Coach Yulenik said of the match, "We're a great team, I think we have what it takes to compete against The Gold TyGrr and later on against distinguished teams in World Cup Qualifiying."

(Voice-Over)This is PBC World News Today, live from Studio 6B in Szalay Tower, Budaorsi, Paleoslavia; Lajos Dudas reporting.

(Dudas, sitting at television news-style desk in a studio)"Good evening, Paleoslavia, I am Lajos Dudas. Tonight on our Special Report, Armin Aros is live in the field at the Confederation Athletic Complex, at the site of one of the final practice sessions for Paleoslavia's first ever national football team, preparing for competition in the preliminary Baptism of Fire for the upcoming World Cup. We turn you over now to Armin Aros."

(Cut to the Confederation Athletic Complex in Budaorsi, the capital of Paleoslavia. The complex is a modern sporting facility, boasting one large indoor arena covered by a steel and plexiglass roof, and multiple training facilities. The building is illuminated by ground lights surrounding the campus, and Paleoslavia's flag waves in the breeze above Armin Aros.)

(Aros)"Tonight we examine the birth of Paleoslavia's first ever national football team, representing Paleoslavia in the upcoming Baptism of Fire Cup and in the following World Cup competitions. Only briefly after our independence did the plan for an internationally competitive football team begin forming. Eager to prove that our young but hardy nation deserves a place in the international society, several parliament members suggested the idea for creating this football team. Supported unanimously in both houses, even gaining the support of the Prime Minister himself, a federally-led search for able-bodied men skilled in football began.

(stock footage of each player & coach at previous positions while Aros does voice-over)

"After months of rigorous tryouts, the team representing Paleoslavia has been narrowed down to 12 men who will compete in the Baptism of Fire Cup next week. They are led by their head coach, Leon Bierman, a German immigrant, former head coach of Nuremburg Associated, winners of 2 world titles.

At goalkeeper wearing number 88, Teppo Lindholm, Finnish-born, former starting goalkeeper of Helsinki FC.

At striker, number 03, Bodi Papp, who led Budapest FC in goals scored for the past 6 years. His single-game record of 11 goals and season record of 58 goals still stands in Hungary.

At CB, number 9, Martin Totth, also Hungarian.

At SW, number 24, Sebo Ferenci, Swedish.

At FB, number 13, Swiss-born Marot Szoke.

At WB, number 8, Laszlo Szekeres, Hungarian.

At CM, number 2, Eric Braun, German.

At DM, number 33, Mathias Keller, German.

At AM, number 5, Peterke Sultis, Swiss.

At midfielder, number 29, Niels Steffenson, Danish.

At winger, number 06, Elliot Nillsen, Swedish.

Finally, at CF, number 45, Pacco Berrera, Spanish.

"The Paleoslavian team is a small one, but they have the pride as if they were representing the strongest nation on the planet. Coach Bierman described the journey ahead as 'challenging, a true test of courage and character.' Bierman's gameplan will be what he describes as focusing on ball control and passing, in an effort to wear the opposing defense down physically and mentally, and then strike when they are at their weakest.

"For those interested, their schedule is as follows:

1. Paleoslavia v. Snub Nose 39
2. Race Track v. Paleoslavia
3. Paleoslavia v. The Deathbat Republic
4. Snub Nose 39 v. Paleoslavia
5. Paleoslavia v. Race Track
6. The Deathbat Republic v. Paleoslavia

"The team has arrived at Budaorsi International Airport, where they will fly to Spaam and begin their bout for the Baptism of Fire Cup next week. To the atheletes and their families, we wish you Godspeed."

\\OOC: Team colors are white jerseys with two horizontal stripes, green on top and red on bottom. Style is +0.5 (slightly offensive).\\

The Guy Who Is Currently In Charge Of The Executive Branch Of The Government And A Bunch Of Other Stuff (Like Bird-Watching And Obsolete Video Game Consoles) For The Frost-Filled Borderlands of Snub Nose 39, or TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19, sat in enormous office in an undisclosed location in a nation with no maps, and tapped his feet. He was waiting in his office. He wasn't entirely sure why, but he was. He needed something important to do. "BEVERLEY!" he yelled. His diminutive fetchlady scurried across the office. He looked at his watch and timed it. She skidded to a stop in front of his desk. "FIVE MINUTES THIRTY-FOUR POINT SEVEN SIX SECONDS! Getting slow. Now, run back and fetch me Margaret and the Manager for the Hooligans and the Minister of Sport, Olympics, Alcoholic Beverages, and Crockpots. I have a message from Spaam and these new-fangled Az-czerians that this 'Baptism of Fire' tournament is going on."

"But sir, Margaret works for the Football Federation of the Lowland Clans now."

"DOES IT LOOK LIKE I CARE? GET HER! NOW!"

TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19 sighed contentedly. He was so important and big it was impressive. But then again, there was that guy from high school...on second thought, he should probably embarrass him. He had him tucked away in a jail somewhere...

Three days later

"It's about time you got back here." TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19 declared.

Margaret was looking a little flabbergasted at the whole situation, as she thought The Frost-Free Borderlands of Snub Nose 38 had disappeared into the mists of time. But apparently, they were back, though with a few differences where around. The capital was no longer Sten, but Stam. They couldn't name it after TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19's cousin Stan, because that would be too overtly nepotistic and he didn't like Stan very much, and to name the capital after a plant limb seemed a little stupid to him. So they got Stam, which probably wasn't the best name, but no one was going to tell TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19 that. The Minister of Sports, Olympic, Alcoholic Beverages and Crockpots and the Manager of the Snub Nose 39 Hooligan Selects sat around a gigantic conference table that stretched all the way down one end of his office, which was bigger than the original.

"So, Margaret, now that we have you, our victory will be assured!"

She chuckled, "Not really no. I still work for you, but the random number gods will accept only chickens. Rubber Chickens will be acceptable."

"Fine. The chickens will be on a plane tomorrow from Spaam."

The Minister piped up, "But we don't even have a team!"

"So what, we have Margaret!"

"Well, before we had a team and Margaret and we still didn't win. We should get a time."

"Fine. What about kits?"

"Nope, sorry. Mr. Guy, no kits. We've just started back up after a long absence."

"Well get to it. Contact someone who makes kits, from Brazillico or Giant Zucchini."

The Manager for the Hooligan Select sighed. "Sir, the Brazillicans and Giant Zucchini have ceased, a long time ago."

"THEN FIND SOMEONE WHO MAKES KITS! Oh and find out who is around from the good ol' days. I'm feeling lonely."

DUMANIAN WORLD CUP TEAM (WOMEN’S SOCCER)

TO WHO IT MITE CONCERN

Head Coach: Neil Pretorius who is a South African Hokkie Player from Bloemfontein but has a lot of experience in Soccer and has taken this team to great heights in the last year.

Dumania will play a -4 with a 4-3-3 formation.
(Starters in red)
(new players are in blue)

GoalKeepers:
Quintin Taljard, 17 yrs old, Pelesier City
John Obligada, 17 yrs old, Fichardtpark
Danny Jordan, 20 yrs old, Dumanian Highlands

Defenders:
Lj Albertein, 14 years old, Pelesier City
Fania Ferrera, 22 years old, Fleurdal
Pieter Janse van Vuuren, 23 yrs old, Aston County
Hennie Joubert, 12 yrs old, Brufel City
Jonny Cornelius, 19 yrs old, Confronter County


Midfielders
Gerto Prinsloo, 16 years old, University of Aston
Stephen Pennells, 16 years old, Fauna
Renier Van Der Waldt, 17 years old, Fleurdal
Japie Kruger, 18 years old, Bruffel City
River Phoenix, 20 yrs. old, No Team


Forwards
Leon Leon, 19 years old, Pelesier City
Johan de Beer, 21 years Old, Mandone Gleisier
Kent Pretorius, 15 years old, Univeristy Of Bufel
Terence Scott, 21 years old, Cheetahs
Herman Swiegers, 15 years old, Sun Vitas (W-League)
Wessel Swiegers, 19 years old, Univeristy of Pelesier
Wayne Smit, 21 years old, University of Burmanien Highveld

Here is our jerseys also We are the Dumanian Tigers
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k163/canuck3360/RRV%20Jersey%20Store/RRVDumaniaHome.png
AND
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k163/canuck3360/RRV%20Jersey%20Store/RRVDumaniaAway.png

I sincerely hope that My team will be accpeted it would be a great thing for our lovely land.

Yours sincerely
President Powel
Rogue nation of Dumania

Ok here are the pervz for me team... they are the best team ever. i hope i dont end up killing too many of the others... dont forget they are all armed to the teeth and if the dont win, their first born get eating by a freakin lion!!!!!! muhahahahah


Manager - Deep Blue
Coach - Aj. Alan
Coach - P. May
Coach - Yings Younger Sister
Coach - Capt. Kangaro
Physco - Muhahahahaha
Physco - Dr. Zin
Publicity - Ms. No Thanks

GK - 069 - James T
GK - 007 - Mr. 7
GK - 234 - Billy Bob
DF - 023 - Billy the Bloobb
DF - 032 - Kinky Kevin
DF - 122 - Matt the Mad Hattter
DF - 143 - Cybor (type 476)
DF - 048 - Tommy the Two Time Two Time Tommy
DF - 666 - Satan
DF - 777 - Jesus
MF - 816 - Omar the Byte
MF - 058 - Tina the Taco Tiger
MF - 064 - Katherone Killer
MF - 027 - Zip the Zap Zoooop
MF - 175 - Sir w00t Alot
MF - 048 - 1337 f337
MF - 184 - Cpt of the Clown Boat
MF - 223 - David the Dog Eater
AF - 094 - Bishop Xiam
AF - 103 - Chris the Catuz Cohan
AF - 192 - Cybor (type 2564)
AF - 224 - DR. HAPPY
AF - 141 - Karl Isaak the 4th
AF - 450 - Crazy Joe

Primary formation: 4 - 4 - 2
Secondary formation: 4 - 3 - 3

DIE MO FO DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DIE MO FO DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DIE MO FO DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DIE MO FO DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

w000000000000000000t!!!!

NOMADASIA TEAM FOR THE BAPTISM OF FIRE CUP

Coach- Wise Old Bill
Assistant Coach- Tim Nice But Dim

GK- Fat Girl With Moustache
GK- Big Hands Willy
GK- Hippy John

DF- Long Legs Jimmy
DF- Big Head Taff
DF- Farmer Geoff
DF- Captain Cheeto (C)
DF- Space Cadet 49
DF- Fat Guy With Rings On His Fingers
DF- Drunk Teacher
MF- Korean Guy
MF- Neo
MF- J The Bar Owner
MF- แสดง
MF- ณ
MF- ไม่บอก
MF- ชาย
F- หญิง
F- อิอิอิอิอิ
F- ปี 2
F- แจ๊ค L3-Sv

Formation- 4-4-2
Alternate Formation- 3-5-2

Captain Cheeto, captain of this years Nomadasia's entry into The Baptism Of Fire made the following statement today:
"We are very excited to be playing in this pretigious event although we don't really have much hope of getting far unfortunately. This is due to our primitive version of soccer played in our great nation, We use the heart of a cow as we cannot afford real footballs, and our goalposts are bottles of water. We also don't like the physicality of soccer so when we play at home we are a bunch of pussies.
But at the end of the day anything can happen in soccer, every game is a game of two halfs, and being a minnow nation the pressure is gonna be on other nations to beat us."

OOC: Just a note, we'll be giving everyone an extra 7 hours! The first matchday will commence 1am Thursday UTC

does the delay have anything to do with the plane crash the my other team had that just happened to have that "rocket locked" error right before sky ate airplane???

TEAM TALK

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

With the opening match of Fort Europe's campaign in the NationStates Baptism of Fire tournement in the build up to the 32nd NS World Cup just a matter of hours away, we bring you a team update for the coming match against group favorates Cafundeu. Speaking with Team Manager Stuart Moss at last nights training session he said, "The lads are looking strong out there today and are in good spirits, we know this match will be tough but I know everyone will go out there tomorrow and do their best, and that is all I can ask of anyone." He went on to give us the full run down of the team sheet and formation for this evening's game which we have included at the bottom of this report.

We also managed to speek with the teams young starlette Mia Nevola who had this to say. "We have no illusions that this will be a walk over, we may be lying sixth in the top divison of The YoungWorld's international league, and we have just won that cup in Kigali, but this is a completely different competition and we will have to up our game in order to achieve the success we long for on what is effectivly a new frontier for us, you could go as far as to say that this is a whole new ball game as far as we are conserned. It will be tough, but challenges make us play better."

News from fans already here in Az-Cz is quickly reaching home that this is a Non-Materialistic nation meaning:..."Free Beer!"
So with the match kicking off at 01:00 local time, and the team prepared to do their best, lets look at the line up first, and then we shall look in more detail at the stars of this show.

The formation for the opening match will be a flat 4 - 4 - 2 formation with an attacking bias of +1:

Starting Lineup

GK - 01 - James West
DF R - 02 - Floe Peltsten
DF C - 03 - Tim Forrester (C)
DF C - 04 - Murphy Lee
DF L - 20 - Aki Haddon
MF R - 06 - Katherine Keller
MF C - 05 - Gemma Lloyd
MF C - 07 - Ryan Holmes
MF L - 18 - Mia Nevola
AF - 09 - Michelle Bishop
AF - 11 - Karl Isaak

SUBS

GK - 13 - Ed Russell
DF - 14 - Shaun Pearson
MF - 08 - Andy Fletcher
MF - 17 - Vicky Princess
AF - 10 - Chris Lessinger

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STAFF BIO's

Manager - Stuart Moss - 35
Stuart has been with the national side since it's begining, and despite some early set backs has built the team into the hightly tallented unit that will be displayed here. He may be one of the less conventional managers in football today, but he gets results and the fans love him for it.

Assistant Manager - Ria Gaskell - 24
Ria took over as assistant manager to the team at the end of last season and has done a stirling job of organising the staff below her and keeping the morale of the team at the highest levels throughout. She was recently married and is expecting her second child.

Head Coach - Josh Melannis - 30
Josh transfered to the national team at the start of last season and was promoted to head coach with Ria's own promotion. He knows what he likes, and gets it without fuss.

Coach - Sam Jones - 21
Goalkeeper coach, Sam will drive out the best perfomances with the minimum of effort, and claw out 120% of her players tallent when he feels like it.

Coach - Ian Holbeach - 40
A tactical geneous, Ian's multi tasking skills allows him to fullfil several rolls for the team for no extra pay, including tallent scout and general dogsbody. On match day he will often be found in the bar chatting up the opposition's wives.

Physio - Tanya Gilmore - 23
A qualified nurse, Tanya is adored by the players who believe her to bring good luck to the team as the last time she missed a game they lost by four goals to nil.

Physio - Victoria Sevenoaks - 23
New to the support team, Vikky saw the job vacancy in the Fern Foxes match programme and applied, she joined the team just three days before flying out to Az-Cz.

Publicity - Alysa Tiana - 24
As the Governor of neigbouring Bovingtonia (Fort Europe Puppet nation) many questioned Alysa's reasons for running publicity for the Fort Europe side. However, she loves the job as much as the team love her and is doing a marvelous job.


SQUAD BIO's

GK - 01 - James West - 27 - Stape Harriers
The longest serving player on the Fort Europe national side, James joined the team in 2004 and has played more games than any other in the history of football in Fort Europe.

GK - 13 - Ed Russell - 22 - Kaytuo City
Ed transfered to Kaytuo last year for a staggaring 34m Commonwealth Euros, and is predicted to become one of the prominant names in the years to come.

GK - 23 - Tom Reas - 15 - Fortress FC
The youngest player in the squad, Tom took his club to glory this season as they won the Commonwealth Domestic Premier League for the third year in a row.

DF - 02 - Floe Peltsten - 20 - Stape Harriers
Floe followed in the footsteps of his father and joined the national team when he was 18, a year on and he is a regular in the squad with 31 caps to his name.


DF - 03 - Tim Forrester - 28 - Mirage FC
Team captain, Tim is one of the most experienced players in the team and has announced his retirement from International football at the end of this season. His leadership and skill will be sorely missed.

DF - 12 - Laura Harris - 17 - Latona FC
Laura joined the team at the start of last season to bring a bit of pace into the back row. She may be young but she has the confidence to carry through in any given situation.

DF - 14 - Shaun Pearson - 23 - Latona FC
With three seasons now under his belt, Shaun has become one of the teams most valuable players and has the leadership qualities to take over as captain next season.

DF - 04 - Murphy Lee -25 - Fortress FC
Never one to miss a game, even when advised against it, Murphy gives his all in any game, and more in the important ones. His free kicks are second to none and hasn't missed from the penalty spot yet.

DF - 15 - Mike Young - 24 - Assegai Developments FC
Transfered to Assegai's top domestic team at the end of the season, ninety five percent of his fan base are 16 year old girls.

DF - 20 - Aki Haddon - 19 - Kaytuo City
One of three new female players to grace the national team of Fort Europe, Aki is a powerful defender able to drive both the ball and the team forwards when most needed.

MF - 16 - Will Jones - 27 - Stape Harriers
A mainstay of the national side, Will may be no more than a backup for the team now but he is still capable of performing to the same level as anyone else. One interesting fact is that he owns a 7 top end sports cars, one for each day of the week.

MF - 05 - Gemma Lloyd - 23 - Orson Town
The rock in the centre of midfield, nothing gets past this lady. Tall, blonde and stunning both on and off the pitch, you won't win anything against this starlette.

MF - 06 - Katherine Keller - 21 - Latona FC
Adding a burst of pace down the right side, Kathy's speciality is crossing the ball and is useful in set pieces with a powerful right foot.

MF - 07 - Ryan Holmes - 21 - Fortress FC
Ryan made the national team after a strong performance last year in the domestic Premier League and performs well as a playmaker for the side, able to hold the ball up and feed it with precision to where ever he wants it.

MF - 17 - Vicky Princess - 22 - Fortress FC
The second new girl in the team, Vicky was purchesed by Fortress FC at the start of the season from Division 3 minows Typhoon United and made an immediate impact with 8 goals from 12 games. She probably won't start often in this competition but the experience will be vital to her success in the years to come.

MF - 08 - Andy Fletcher - 23 - Assegai Developments FC
When Mike Young moved to Assegai, Andy insisted on tagging along. A strong and confident defencive midfielder, he doesn't get forward much but is highly reliable at the back. The Assegai Developments national side, rivals from The YoungWorld region are now in their second year in the NS World Cup.

MF - 18 - Mia Nevola - 21 - Ascama United
Little Mia is just 5'2" tall, but has been timed as the fastest player on the team, and her naturally strong left foot makes her an invaluable asset on the left wing, though she is more than capable of cutting inside and scoring with either foot.

MF - 22 - Edowine Sanjuan - 16 - Racing River Rapid
Edowine returns to the national side after a year out to get married and raise her daughter Sheri, but returns with the extra supporters and her own chear leaders. She is a flamboyant midfielder who is always likely to do the unexpected in acrobatic style. She also clames she will play extra well in this tournement as her 17th birthday is this Saturday.

AF - 09 - Michelle Bishop - 23 - Stape Harriers
Top goal scorer in the Commonwealth Premiership two years running, Michelle knows where the goal is without the need to look, and finds the back of the net more often than not. Michelle was voted as The YoungWorld's sexiest personality in 2005, and says she enjoys modelling as a hobby, though has turned down recent offers to star in a porn movie.

AF - 10 - Chris Lessinger - 24 - Stape Harriers
Chris has a tendency to sit back and let others do all the hard work, then snatch the rebounds and get those vital tap ins at the back post. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time.

AF - 19 - Ian Sikes - 19 - Sirus Athletic
Ian has only made 6 international starts in the last two seasons, but has performed well in all of them and is long overdue a full start, his lack of experience and the superior tallent of his team mates being the only thing holding him back. Was voted Sirus Athletics most valuable player last season.

AF - 24 - Del Jenkins - 26 - Fortress FC
Prolific would be an understatement for this goal scorer who once broke a goal post with an overly powerful shot. His age and pace however have let him down this season and he is unlikely to start a game in this competition.

AF - 11 - Karl Isaak - 25 - Fort Lakaria City
Fort Europe's star player, Karl has been with the national side for three seasons now and has at least another two in him. Michelle's equil in pace and score tally per game, he also collected the highest number of yellow cards last season, though no red ones.

AF - 25 - Josephine Blanchard - 16 - Racing River Rapid
The third new face in the team, Joey was born in the River Rapids Isabella Stadium, grew up in the stands and at 12 years old was sellected for the national youth squad. Apparently she is still the 3R's mascot and guiding star after insuring the teams survival in thier first Premiership season.

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

The National Strombolandese Soccer Club:

Strikers:

~Alex Cambarande (Starting Star) Left
~Derk Nowits (STARTER) Right
~Nash Klamb (SUB)

Mid Fielders:

~Halim Backman (STARTER STAR) Middle Left
~Jorge Manshowitz (STARTER) Middle Right
~Tal Ambir (STARTER) Outside Right
~ Snapz Manchu (STARTER) Outside Left
~ Thomas Blight SUB

Defenders:

~Ryan Cromwell (STARTER STAR) Middle Left
~John Caissie (STARTER) Middle Right
~ Bradly DalRimple (STARTER) Outside Right
~ Brandon Fahey (STARTER) Outside Left
~Josh Hartnett SUB

Style:

1 1
1 1 1 1
1 1 1 1

Offside Trap: On

Kit:
http://www.internetsportstravel.com/images/kit_shirt_ragazzo_2.gif

Style: Defensive minded but not scared to take an attack.





MORE TO COME SOON!

The first press conference of Cafundéu was held in the Slimes Stadium. Only one Az-Cz reporter, one Fort Europe reporter and three Cafundéu reporters were waiting for the coach Braddock. He appeared with the director of the National Team Erasmo Carlos Jowenguard.

REPORTER: The players are preparing themselves well for this match? Are the training sessions sucessful?
BRADDOCK: I'll say that the training sessions are giving average results. Some players are improving and some players aren't performing well, but it's just the start. I don't want to give any more details about that.

REPORTER: Mr. Jowenguard, did you like the country?
JOWENGUARD: Yes, I like here. Last week I was in Rorysville during the Women's World Cup and now I'm here in Az-Cz. This is one of the things that I most like in my job, travelling to other countries. This place is really nice and I think that everything will be alright.

REPORTER: Coach, do you think that Cafundéu can do a good job in this competition?
BRADDOCK: It's hard to say... we don't know the other teams, we don't know what they can make. But we are well prepared and ready to fight for the victories. We'll not give up.

REPORTER: Why the counselor-minister Makas isn't here?
JOWENGUARD: Just wait, he has important things to do in the country, like... err... like I said, he has many important things to do, and maybe later he can come here to see some games.

REPORTER: Do you already have the formation for next match?
BRADDOCK: Yes, I have. Here it is: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Kliek and Brahma; Ganz Ijak and Heitor. 4-4-2 offensive(Style +2).

REPORTER: This is your favourite formation? You'll use it in most of the games?
BRADDOCK: It isn't my favourite formation. I prefer 4-3-3, but I think that this formation suits more the team. But I won't use only the 4-4-2. It'll depend on the game.

REPORTER: Thank you and good luck.

The players are anxious to play the first game. But the media director of the CCFM, Tarcísio Andrade Sarnel, said that the players can't give interviews before the match.

RTTV's Pre WC32 Preview

Chuck:Welcome to RTTV's 5 minute preview of the Baptism of Fire I'm Chuck

Tonya:and I'm Tonya Allison

Both: And Welcome to The First ever RTTV WC Preview.

Chuck:First Let's look at our group

okay

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Group Crosshill
1. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/race_track.png Race Track
2. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_deathbat_republic.png The Deathbat Republic
3. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/snub_nose_39.png Snub Nose 39
4. http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/paleoslavia.png Paleoslavia



Chuck:Tonya which team do you think well be our nemisis in this group

Tonya: Snub Nose 39
Chuck: Why do you Think that
Tonya: Rumor has it they have a Sorcerer as they team backer
Chuck: Really,I think Deathbat Republic is gonna be the team to beat, as they are heavily Allied with the definding champs.

Chuck: now let's go on to the starting roster

GK 00 Jim Jackson

F 2 Larry Warrel
F 39 Dan Grefner
F 6 Hal Jorgenson
F 12 Jerome Haasafi
F 55 Ty Worshamdowski

M 32 Bert Hever (only player with Intl expierience and thus Cpt)
M 9 John Smith

D 11 Henri Ugllio
D 1 Fred Glass
D 50 Hernandez Calmoine

And now for our brand new Uni's Courtesy of RRV jersey store and Publix

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k163/canuck3360/RRV%20Jersey%20Store/RRVRacetrackSoccer.png

And Thank You for watching RTTV's 5 minute WC Preview

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Group Crosshill

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/race_track.png Race Track 1:1 The Deathbat Republic http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_deathbat_republic.png
http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/paleoslavia.png Paleoslavia 2:2 Snub Nose 39 http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/snub_nose_39.png

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Group Al Quds

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/nomadasia.png Nomadasia 2:1 Stromboland http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/stromboland.png
http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_new_hypocria.png The New Hypocria 2:0 Dumania http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/dumania.png

Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Paleoslavia 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 +0 50
Snub Nose 39 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 +0 50
Race Track 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 +0 50
The Deathbat Republic 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 +0 50

Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 1 1 0 0 2 0 3 +2 100
Nomadasia 1 1 0 0 2 1 3 +1 66
Stromboland 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 -1 33
Dumania 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 -2 0

Ahead of the opening matches, Fort Europe team manager Stuart Moss made the following statement:

"I would just like to wish Cafundéu the best of luck in the competition and have no doubt that they will do extremely well in this and many future competitions if they keep up the commitment they have shown to International football in the last few days. I am cirtain that Cafundéu will be one to look out for in the future and look forward to meeting them on the field of play."

Here are the scores for match day 1 for the teams playing in Az-cz:

Group Giant Zucchini
The HURD 2:3 Anrow
Fort Europe 2:2 Cafundeu

Group Dennisov
Salwinia 3:0 Choobie International
Noremark 1:2 The Gold TyGrr

And here are tables for the groups.

Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Anrow 1 1 0 0 3 2 3 +1 60
Fort Europe 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 +0 50
Cafundeu 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 +0 50
The HURD 1 0 0 1 2 3 0 -1 40

Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Salwinia 1 1 0 0 3 0 3 +3 100
The Gold TyGrr 1 1 0 0 2 1 3 +1 66
Noremark 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 -1 33
Choobie International 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 -3 0

Fort Europe - 2 - V - 2 - Cafundéu
@ Temple of Yak
Attendence: 74,638

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

The Fort Europe side fought hard to get a foothold in the first half here at the Temple of Yak as they clashed head on with a strong Cafundéu side, however the match was drawn equil at the end of both halves in this game with an improved second half perfomance all round in a game that could have gone either way. My guest in the press box for this match was Assegai Developments starlette Samantha Neesa who commented after the game:
"There was nothing between these sides today Amy, and both deserved to come away with points here. The support for both teams was fantastic and added the strength of an extra player to their respective teams." Michelle Bishop scored both goals for Fort Europe, the first just before half time, and the second coming in the last fifteen minutes of the game to finish the match all square.

MATCH RATINGS
(out of 10)

7 - James West
6 - Floe Peltsten []
7 - Tim Forrester (C)
7 - Murphy Lee
7 - Aki Haddon
6 - Katherine Keller
7 - Gemma Lloyd []
8 - Ryan Holmes
7 - Mia Nevola
9 - Michelle Bishop (43,79)
7 - Karl Isaak

SUBS

- - Ed Russell
- - Shaun Pearson
7 - Andy Fletcher (On for Keller (65))
- - Vicky Princess
6 - Chris Lessinger (On for Isaak (73))

"Welcome back to PBC World News Tonight, I am Lajos Dudas.

The scene in the Paleoslavian locker room at the Baptism of Fire Cup was not one of outrageous celebration, nor one of solemn defeat. Rather, there were handshakes, pats on the back, and congratulations all around on a well-played game and a well-fought match. Armin Aros has more, live in Spaam."

(Aros)"A grueling match between our beloved Paleoslavian footballers and organisation representing Snub Nose 39 was concluded earlier this evening, ending in a draw, two goals to both sides.

The opening 15 minutes of play belonged to Snub Nose 39, using superior offensive penetration and striking to rain down volleys of kicks on Paleoslavian goaltender Teppo Lindholm. However, just one of these many kicks made it past Lindholm during this time period, and the Paleoslavian defenses rallied around him to blunt the Snub Nose 39 drives to the goal.

Balance of power on the field during the following 20 minutes of play shifted sporadically between the teams, neither side making an effective drive to the opposition's goal. The only considerable action during this period occurred when Paleoslavian stars Bodi Papp and Eric Braun made a two-way drive swiftly to the end field, with Papp kicking in a goal in the upper left corner in the 33rd minute.

Papp was yellowcarded in the 41st minute, after an aggressive scrum with Snub Nose 39 players, and the game was largely quiet until the 52nd minute with a Snub Nose 39 goal kicked in over the head of Teppo Lindholm.

Despite overwhelming crowd support in favor of Snub Nose 39, the Paleoslavian defenses held firm, finally scoring the tying goal in the 68th minute off of a head-in by forward Pacco Berrera. Coach Leon Bierman had this today post-game:"

(Clip of Bierman speaking in locker room)"We did exactly what we came here to do today, and that was prove that we are capable of competing with other international teams. We didn't win, no, but we didn't lose either. To me and to these guys here behind me, that's the next best thing to a win. But we can't stop there. There's a big difference bewteen playing to win and playing to not lose. When you play to not lose, you'll never make anything happen. But when you play to win, the sky's the limit."

(Aros)"Next week, Paleoslavia will take on Race Track in Round 2 of the Baptism of Fire Cup competitions. Two our proud representatives, we wish you good luck."

TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19 sat at his gigantic desk with his feet up enjoying the view of his large window. It was a peaceful day, but it was one of those peaceful days that could easily turn into a mess. With Margaret, the Minister of Sport, Olympic, Alcoholic Beverages, and Crockpots, and the Manager of the Hooligan Selects crossed the HUGE office floor all the way to his huge desk. About ten minutes after he spotted them, they arrived at his desk, they then walked all the way over the conference at the other end of his huge office. An hour later, they finally sat down to talk. "So, how did we do?"

"Well, pretty well considering we didn't have anyone actually on the field," said Margaret.

"You mean we didn't have a team?"

"No, we couldn't find one in time."

"Why didn't you just put some high school people like these new-fangled 'Montreal States?'"

"Well, we don't have any high school sports teams. We've got a bunch of drunk people trying to learn something about the world, but no high school sports teams," said the Minister of Sport.

"We should get some high school teams."

"Yes sir."

"So what was the score again?"

"2-2"

"Who were we playing?"

"These Paleoslavians."

"Who the hell are they?"

"Absolutely no idea. We haven't been around for almost fifteen World Cups, this the Baptism of Fire, these are new teams."

"I recognized the Halfassedstates flag on one of those teams. Stromboland was it?"

"Yeah, I wonder if they are related to them. I we should ask them about it."

"Alright, get Beverly to ask them if they are related to Halfassedstates. Now, what about our team?"

"Well, we've started tryouts, and we should have a team ready for the next couple of matches. A roster would be nice to have, so people can talk about the mystical force that runs around and scores goals."

"Hey, look there's a match report for our match. Apparently we had some pretty good offense."

"The random number gods were pleased."

"You know, it'd probably be good to get some players on the field, it would help."

"Alright, and get some kits."

"That too."

Todays vitory in the BoF sparked wild celebrations back in Nomadasia, after a stunning 2-1 victory against Stroboland in their first ever competitive game of football. Captain Cheeto made the following statement after the game:
"W00tness in the p00tness!!!" Before being swiftly mobbed by the rest of the team and doused in local champagne.
Following the game the goverment declared a 3 day holiday for celebration of this remarkable achievement and it is expected that each of the players will receive a virgin girl on returning home.

The teamsheet for this game is as follows:
GK- Fat Girl With Moustache
DF- Space Cadet 49
DF- Captain Cheeto (C)
DF- Long Legs Jimmy
DF- Fat Guy With Rings On His Fingers
MF- Korean Guy
MF- J The Bar Owner
MF- ไม่บอก
MF- ณ
F- แจ๊ค L3-Sv
F- อิอิอิอิอิ

Goalscorers: แจ๊ค L3-Sv 1, Fat Guy With Rings On His Fingers 1.

Do you have to RP to win?

You don't have to, no... but if you do your team receives bonus points making the chances of your team winning greater. The more you RP posts you make, and the better the quality of the posts, the bigger the bonus and the better your team will do.

you don't have to but it helps signficantly, especially in this tournament. Each result is the result of random numbers, but the more you RP and the better RP will give you a bonus modifier which will signifcantly increase your chances of winning. In other tournaments there are other modifiers that come into play, rankings mostly, but in this one it's RP and random numbers only. As such they are very important. There's no guarantee you will win if you RP or that you'll definitely lose if you don't, but it changes the chances.

http://www.paulistafutebol.com.br/new/fotos/09.jpg
Cafundéu's supporters commemorating Anormal's goal

(Temple of Yak, Az-Cz) - The first game of the National Team of Cafundéu was against a fighter and talented Fort Europe team. The game had many goal chances for both sides, and the incredible stats of 50% of ball possession for each team and same number of shots to goal.

Although the game was disputed, there wasn't many fouls(even Cafundéu being a violent team) and discussions, so the referee had a easy job. Bith teams tried to use the wings, but Cafundéu tried to attack a bit more and because of that suffered a goal in a counterattack.

The game started slow, with the teams waiting for the best moment to attack. In the 8th minute, the first chance. Brahma passed to Heitor who dribbled a defender and shot. The ball hit the post. Two minutes after, Fort Europe replied with Forrester, who headed the ball that came from a corner, but sent it over the bar.

Foul for Cafundéu in the 12th minute. Peltsten slided on the leg of Ganz Ijak and received a yellow card. Vandick took the free kick, but West made a good save. Cafundéu had another chance in the 15th minute, when Priotto dribbled a defender, fouled the second(but the ref didn't see it) and shot, obligating West to make another good save.

Fort Europe tried to score again in the 18th minute, with Nevola, but Becão took the ball back. One minute after, Isaak dribbled Becão and shot, but Vargas made the best save of the match, in a shot that should be a goal. In the 20th minute started to rain, and both teams had difficulties to play in these conditions.

But even with the rain the teams had some chances. In the 23rd minute, Kliek crossed to Ganz Ijak, but he missed the ball that remained with the defender. In the 26th minute, Lloyd headed the ball after a corner, but Vargas saved. She complained with the referee saying that Becão fouled her, but the referee didn't hear and showed the yellow card to her.

In the 34th minute, Ray Kirs saw that the goalkeeper was bad positioned and shot from the midfield, but he missed the goal. Three minutes after, Lloyd tried to shot from outside the area but sent the ball wide. The rain was making the game more difficult, and both teams weren't reaching the opponent's area.

So Braddock put Ernesto Ijak in Brahma's place. But nothing changed. After many lost chances and many minutes spent in the midfield, the game was still difficult. But, in the 43rd minute, a goal. Cafundéu attacked and lost the ball. In a fast counterattack, Bishop received the ball alone and scored. 1x0.

But, in the injury time, Cafundéu got the draw. Anormal ran and dribbled a defender. Shot the ball, the defender blocked, but in the rebound he shot again and scored the goal. 1x1. The first half ended. In the 1st minute of the second half, Priotto pushed Haddon and received the yellow card. In the 5th minute Ernesto Ijak passed to Heitor who missed a great chance shooting the ball in the leg of the defender.

Then, the rain stopped and both teams started to play much better. The first to have a chance was Fort Europe. Holmes passed to Keller, who crossed the ball to the area. After some rebounds in the area, Bishop got the ball and shot, sending the ball wide. Cafundéu replied in the 11th minute with Anormal, who shot from outside the area, but West saved.

One minute later Sávio Ferrari fouled Isaak and received the yellow card. The game was fast, full of good chances, the people that were watching the game was enjoying it. Then, in the 15th minute of the second half, Kliek passed to Ganz Ijak who dribbled the goalkeeper and shot the ball to the open goal to score. 1x2.

Five minutes later both coaches decided to change in their teams. Braddock put Manuel Padaria in Sávio Ferrari's place and Moss changed Keller for Fletcher. In the 22nd minute Cafundéu had another opportunity with Heitor, but he missed. Fort Europe started to attack more, trying to score the goal.

In the 25th minute a crazy supporter invaded the field and tried to kiss the referee. The security had to work and arrested the man. The game continued and, in the 28th minute, Moss put Lessinger in Issak's place. The coach Franz Braddock started to shout: "Come on, keep the ball possession. Get the ball, idiots!", and the players tried to do what the coach asked.

The game began more close in the midfield and few goal chances were seen until the 34th minute, when Nevola crossed the ball and Bishop headed to score the second goal. 2x2. Braddock put Mercegues in Priotto's place and tried to attack with all forces.

But both teams were tired and couldn't attack with the same power. The defenders had an easy job in the last minutes of the game. Only one good chance: In the 45th minute, Mercegues shot and the ball hit the bar. And the game ended 2x2.

After the game, the coach Braddock seemed happy: "I would like a victory, but surely the draw was great because this probably is our most difficult opponent in the first phase, so at least we didn't lose. Next games we'll do our best to win".

Attacker Ganz Ijak said the same: "Yes, they were dangerous and the draw was good. The game was nice, both teams respected each other. Our countries have a good relationship and it helped the game. Now good luck for them in the remaining of the competition and for us too". Right-back Vandick thinks that the team can play better: "We can play better than this. And I think that they(Fort Europe) can too. We didn't use all our potential".

The referee Jancaster Weslaht also liked the game: "It was very easy to control. If all the games were like this one, I wouldn't be so nervous before every game".

Braddock said that now the team will wait next game. The press conference will be in the middle of the week, but he already said what will be the team: "Not confirmed, but probably: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Mercegues and Kliek; Ganz Ijak and Heitor. With a style of +2.5".

http://www.brasiliensefc.net/fotos/jogos/01.jpg
Photo taken by a supporter(from an unofficial site)

FORT EUROPE: West, Peltsten, Forrester, Lee and Haddon; Keller(Fletcher), Lloyd, Holmes and Nevola; Bishop and Isaak(Lessinger).
Coach: Stuart Moss.

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari(Manuel Padaria); Anormal, Priotto(Mercegues), Kliek and Brahma(Ernesto Ijak); Ganz Ijak and Heitor.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

GOALS: FORT EUROPE: Bishop 43'/79'.
CAFUNDÉU: Anormal 45'+ , Ganz Ijak 60'.

From the Desk of the Prime Minister of Paleoslavia

TO: All Paleoslavian Baptism of Fire Cup Competitors

SUBJ: Upcoming Match

Let me wish you congratulations on a match well played last week. You managed to have a draw with one of the better teams in this year's Baptism of Fire Cup. Your display of skill, strategy, and determination will soon become a model for the youth of Paleoslavia to follow. You are doing your country proud.

Let me also wish you good luck in your upcoming match against Race Track. I haven't the faintest doubt in my mind that this team can come away with a victory. Keep your actions on the field in line with the way you wish to have the nation of Paleoslavia represented in the international community. Above all, be proud of yourselves and for your cause. Your country is behind you every step of the way. Godspeed.

Group Crosshill
Race Track 0:2 Paleoslavia
Snub Nose 39 2:1 The Deathbat Republic

Group Al Quds
Nomadasia 0:3 The New Hypocria
Dumania 2:0 Stromboland

Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Paleoslavia 2 1 1 0 4 2 4 +2 66
Snub Nose 39 2 1 1 0 4 3 4 +1 57
The Deathbat Republic 2 0 1 1 2 3 1 -1 40
Race Track 2 0 1 1 1 3 1 -2 25

Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 2 2 0 0 5 0 6 +5 100
Dumania 2 1 0 1 2 2 3 +0 50
Nomadasia 2 1 0 1 2 4 3 -2 33
Stromboland 2 0 0 2 1 4 0 -3 20

Here are the matchday two scores:

Group Giant Zucchini
The HURD 1:1 Fort Europe
Cafundeu 2:1 Anrow

Group Dennisov
Salwinia 2:4 Noremark
The Gold TyGrr 2:3 Choobie International

And here are the group standings

Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu 2 1 1 0 4 3 4 +1 57
Anrow 2 1 0 1 4 4 3 +0 50
Fort Europe 2 0 2 0 3 3 2 +0 50
The HURD 2 0 1 1 3 4 1 -1 42

Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Salwinia 2 1 0 1 5 4 3 +1 55
Noremark 2 1 0 1 5 4 3 +1 55
The Gold TyGrr 2 1 0 1 4 4 3 +0 50
Choobie International 2 1 0 1 3 5 3 -2 37

"This is breaking news from PBC World News. We take you immediately to Armin Aros reporting live in Spaam."

(Aros, in Paleoslavia team locker room)"As you can see, the Paleoslavian team is in total jubilation following their victory of 2 to 0 over Race Track. The match belonged to Paleoslavia, with Laszlo Szekeres scoring a goal in the 19th minute and Bodi Papp scoring again in the 54th. The theme of tonight's match was that of ball control, which our team dominated. Using effective passing and ball movement, Paleoslavia was able to wear down the Race Track defenses and strike when they were at their weakest. No yellow cards were given during the match. We interviewed star striker Bodi Papp on field following the win:"

(Clip of Papp speaking in football arena)"This is unbelievable, we did exactly what Coach Bierman promised we would, and that was play to win. The team made an excellent group effort in staying on offense and keeping the ball moving, what a great bunch of guys to play with. I'm so proud to be here right now, Victory for Paleoslavia!"

(Aros)"Head Coach Leon Bierman had this today earlier:"

(Bierman, in locker room)"What did I tell you, when you play to win like we did tonight you can accomplish anything! I'm so very proud to have coached this team to victory against a talented team like Race Track, and now it feels like the pressure's off since we've won a match, we've proven what a team we are. Tonight we celebrate, but first thing tomorrow we plan next week's match against The Deathbat Republic."

(Aros)"No lack of work ethic from Coach Bierman, even when celebrating such a powerful win. Paleoslavia advances onward here in the Baptism of Fire Cup and we wish our team good luck in their coming matches. We return you to your regularly scheduled programming."

:sniper:

The first born of the whole "Gold Tygrr" Team has been executed by Yings Younger Sister and Dr. Happy according to the BBC and the CIA. This was the action taken by the slightly insane but popularly elected Leader becuase of yesterdays football loss. The Leader has been quoted as saying "We need to sacrifice to the FOOTBALL GODS our nations servival depends on it" It is widly speculated that this leader bet his whole country on the outcome of the World Cup Event. The Leader further said "What is the blood of a few children compared to complete slavery of our race?" "The GODS must be appeased"

Nomadasia today came crashing back to reality after a 3-0 beating at the hands of New Hypocria, reports the Nomadasia Post. It was a dismal display by the Nomads and manager Wise Old Bill will be desperate to make a fightback at next weeks match against Dumania. Nomadasia fielded the same team as they did in the previous weeks victory against Stromboland, and it is expected that a vastly different team will be selected next time round.
A head goverment leader after the game commented in between smoking a joint, "Well man , you know, I mean yeah we were happy after the win last week, but there are more important things, you know, like, ummm, campfires and pizza."
The government has also said in a hope that Nomadasia returns to form that they will be giving each player the new S type wagon, with adjustable harnesses for both camels and elephants. Captain Cheeto was asked what he thought about this incentive, "W00tness in the p00tness."

Noremark Wins First Match!

PORT MID-MJR – The National Football Team of Noremark have won their first international match, with a score of four goals to two against Salwinia! The win away at the Golem Goliseum puts the Royals in second place in Group Dennisov, with a record of one win and one loss. Salwinia remains at first, while The Gold TyGrr moves to third after losing to Choobie International, who sits in fourth because of goal difference.

The match at the Goliseum began promptly with the singing of both Noremark's and Salwinia's national anthem. After a few minutes, the game was off to a thrilling start. Forwards Sebastian Ryhers, Niels Wilkinson, and Lars Aranosk had plenty possession in the first ten minutes of the match, going back and forth with Salwinia's defense. At the twelfth minute, a pass from Ryhers gave Wilkinson a shot straight into the back of the net, putting Noremark up 1-0. Almost ten minutes later, a corner kick was awarded to the Royals. A kick from Slav Konenen was headed by Ryhers, which put the Royals up 2-0 after the ball narrowely missed the keepers hands and went into the net. However, the midfield got lazy and in the thirty-ninth minute of play, Salwinia scored putting the score at 2-1.

Half-time came and went, and the two teams were back at it. Lots of passing up and down the field proving for a rather boring second half. The action truly began at the sixty-first minute, when Lars Aranosk managed to bend one into the net. At the sixty-ninth, a vengeful Salwinian team shot a long one to make the score 3-2. In the minutes to follow, Salwinia looked to tie up the match, and at the seventy-sixth minute they nearly managed too, however keeper Renimasje managed a save. As the match came to a close, Noremark put in a last-minute effort and managed to make the score 4-2 after reserve Matias Niksje scored in the eighty-sixth minute. After a few minutes of extra-time, the game was over, and Noremark had won.

The national team celebrated their win at a bar in Port Mid-Mjr, satisfied with their first win. Coach Yulenik said in an interview after the match that, "We played a good ninety minutes of football. The team looks strong - we're definately on our way to making it to the second round." The Royals left Port Mid-Mjr for their home field in Fort Ben-Degly, where they will prepare to face off against Choobie International.

Top Goal Scorers
1. Niels Wilkinson - 2
2. Lars Aranosk - 1
3. Sebastian Ryhers - 1
4. Matias Niksje - 1

The HURD - 1 - V - 1 - Fort Europe
@ Burlock Castle
Attendence: 82,839

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

Fort Europe failed to dominate in their second game in the Baptism of Fire tournement despite having almost total posession in a game that was always destined to be one sided. An early goal by The HURD put dampened the high spirits of the travelling supporters gave Fort Europe a difficult time as they searched to get get the game back on equil terms. The HURD's goal was pounded again and again with the post and crossbar receiving powerful shots from Karl Isaak and Mia Nevola. Despite their upper hand, and a difference of 14 shots on target seperating the two sides, it wasn't until the 82nd minute that they were able to draw level. The last ten minutes then became an all out push for a winner, as Fort Europe threw everything forwards, even West in goal had a shooting oportunity but curled the ball just wide of the far post.

The game finished all square at one goal a piece, and our player of the match dedication must go to The HURD's goalkeeper for an outstanding display. Our own most valuable player of this game was goal scorer Mia Nevola who sparkled amongst a field of stars, and topped the perfomance with a classy goal from 22 yards as she struck with her naturally strong left foot to place the ball in the top left corner from well practiced short corner set piece taken by Gemma Lloyd. Unfortunatly Cafundéu picked up a two goals to one win against Anrow leaving Fort Europe in third place with two points and a long way to go.

My guest in the press box for this game was an old friend of Fort Europe, former England International Jamie Rednapp who commented after the game that Fort Europe were extremely unlucky to come away with all three points from this game. Next week Fort Europe return to the Temple of Yak to take on Anrow and attempt to place themselves in a stronger position to go into the knockout stages of this tournement. According to the team's assistant manager Ria Gaskell, "Nothing but a win from our next game will be acceptable". Anrow already have three points from their first two games, so we can expect another close and hard fought match. Early indications show that the team will remain largely unchanged for the next game, with starlette Vicky Princess expected to take over in midfield after a disapointing performance Andy Fletcher.

MATCH RATINGS
(out of 10)

6 - James West
7 - Floe Peltsten
7 - Tim Forrester (C)
7 - Murphy Lee
7 - Aki Haddon
6 - Andy Fletcher []
7 - Gemma Lloyd
8 - Ryan Holmes []
8 - Mia Nevola (82)
6 - Michelle Bishop
6 - Karl Isaak []

SUBS

- - Ed Russell
6 - Shaun Pearson (On for Lee (45))
- - Katherine Keller
7 - Vicky Princess (On for Fletcher (75))
6 - Chris Lessinger (On for Holmes (83))

Noz-Tf, president of the Az-czid football federation was sitting in his office when the phone rang.

"Hello."

"Hey Noz-Tf, it's me Roger."

"How are things going chum?"

"Good. I'm just calling to tell you that I've been getting a lot of pressure to spread the word about kleptochase. The tour season's almost over and soon the Atlantian Oceania Kleptochase competition and the Nations States Kleptochase Championships will be occurring, so they want us to try to recruit competitors. Just letting you know."

"Thanks, pally boy."

http://www.avai.com.br/imagens/galerias/fotos/4618.jpg
Vandick marking an attacker of Anrow

(Slimes Stadium, Az-Cz) - A good game for Cafundéu, which had no difficulty to beat the National Team of Anrow by the result of 2x1. Cafundéu scored both goals in the first half, and only suffered the goal in the last minutes of the game.

Although the game was good, some moments of violence appeared. Many cards and fouls marked the game. Now Cafundéu will play The HURD in search for another victory. The weather will probably be cloudy and can rain. Anrow didn't release the names of its players, so we'll identify them by their numbers.

The match started nervous, with two fouls and two yellow cards. Sávio Ferrari pushed #11 and received the yellow card. One minute after, #11 kicked Sávio Ferrari's leg and received the yellow card. After some difficult minutes, when both teams tried to get the ball fouling the opponent, the game started to look better.

In the 11th minute Vandick took a free kick, obligating #12 to make a great save. Three minutes after Anrow replied with #8, who dribbled one defender and shot, but missed the goal sending the ball wide. In the 16th minute Anormal passed to Kirs, who dribbled one defender and crossed the ball to Ganz Ijak, who missed a great chance.

Before the 22nd minute #2 and #3 of Anrow received yellow cards, but no goal opportunities were seen. 22nd minute: Vandick took a free kick, the ball hit the post and, in the rebound, Heitor scored with a beautiful volley. After the first goal, Cafundéu tried to score again with Priotto, who shot from outside the area but missed the goal.

25th minute: Cafundéu attacked again with Kliek, who crossed the ball to the area. Ganz Ijak headed to the middle of the area and Heitor appeared alone to score again: 2x0. After the second goal Cafundéu continued to attack, and Anrow tried to use the counterattacks.

26th minute: #9 of Anrow crossed the ball. #11 headed, but Vargas made an easy save. 28th minute: Kliek made a good play and passed to Mercegues, received the ball back and passed to Mercegues again, who, inside the area, sent the ball over the bar, missing a good chance.

33rd minute: #6 of Anrow shot from outside the area, Vargas gave the rebound and #7, in offside position, scored. The ref saw the irregularity and disallowed the goal. Anrow's coach was furious. 38th minute: Ganz Ijak shot the ball, it hit the bar. In the rebound, Anormal headed, but #12 made a secure save.

In the last minutes of the first half the game slowed a bit. Anrow still tried to counterattack, but they couldn't get the ball. Cafundéu stopped to attack with much force and defended a bit more. In the 44th minute, Anrow had a chance with #21, but the defender blocked his shots twice. The first half ended 2x1.

For the second half, Anrow's coach changed two players: he put #18 in the place of #21 and #5 in the place of #6. Braddock put Manuel Padaria in Kliek's place to defend more. The second half started with a more offensive attitude of Anrow, but they couldn't finish well. Their first chance was in the 3rd minute, but #18 sent the ball over the bar.

6th minute: Priotto dribbled two defenders, passed to Mercegues who shot the ball. It hit a defender and Heitor got the rebound, dribbling a defender and passing to Ganz Ijak, who missed the chance losing the ball. 8th minute: Becão got the ball in the defense and made a long pass to Kirs, who tried to shot, but the keeper could get the ball.

12th minute: #2 of Anrow suffered a foul. Becão received the yellow card. #2, nervous, punched Becão and received the red card. #11 took the free kick with great ability, but Vargas saved. 14th minute: Anrow had a corner kick. #8 took it and was near to score the goal.

16th minute: After a corner kick, Anormal jumped together with the goalkeeper and scored using his head, but fell over the goalkeeper, fouling him, so the goal was disallowed. #12 couldn't continue to play after the foul(a 106kg giant fell over him!) and #1 entered in his place. 18th minute: #5 shot form outside the area, but hit a poor reporter that was watching the game. Fortunately, he is ok.

21st minute: Manuel Padaria headed the ball after a free kick, but missed the goal. #8 complained with him, saying that Padaria pushed him, and both received yellow cards. At that time Anrow was better in the game, having the best chances and seemed that soon they would score a goal. Cafundéu was defending and holding the pressure.

25th minute: Heitor received the ball in the midfield, passed to Mercegues who crossed to the area, but #3 reached the ball first than Priotto and could stop the good play. 29th minute: Vandick was tired and asked to be substituted. Then, Braddock put Cafézinho in his place. For some minutes both teams returned to fight for the ball, making many fouls, although the teams didn't dislike each other.

33rd minute: The goal. #18 passed to #10 who, inside the area, dribbled the goalkeeper and shot to score. Five minutes later, Heitor received the yellow card after simulating a penalty. 39th minute: Kirs ran from the left, dribbled an opponent and tried to send the ball to the area, but missed. A good play that was wasted.

Wasted chances were common and no beautiful plays were seen until the end of the game. #4 received the yellow card in the last minute of the game. After 90 minutes of a disputed game, with some confusions and many fouls, the game ended. 2x1 for Cafundéu.

The referee Henk Le Martinno said: "This was a difficult game to control. Hopefully I didn't have to show more red cards, but there were some moments that I felt that a fight could happen. Thank God that this didn't happen".

Attacker Heitor said: "Good game, I scored two goals. Our second half wasn't so good, but in the first half we made the difference". Midfielder Mercegues said: "Nice game, we had some good moments but they had good moments too. Our opponent(Anrow) is a great team and I'm sure that they have chances to go to the next phase. They play good football, but today we were better. I think that I can't play the next game, I'm not feeling good".

Midfielder Anormal said: "I'm sorry for #12, I didn't want to hurt him". Becão said: "We did our job today, now we need another victory against The HURD". Coach Franz Braddock said: "We won! It's all that matters! Now we'll search for another victory and I'm sure that we can do it. Congratulations to all my players, this game was difficult. Sávio is suspended and Mercegues isn't in top form and he said that he probably won't be in conditions to play the next game, so the formation will be: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Ducas; Anormal, Priotto, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. The style will be an offensive +2.5".

http://www.avai.com.br/imagens/galerias/fotos/4616.jpg
#10 tries to dribble Sávio Ferrari

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick(Cafézinho), Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Mercegues and Kliek(Manuel Padaria); Heitor and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

ANROW: #12(#1), #2, #3, #4 and #13; #6(#5), #7, #8 and #21(#18); #10 and #11.
Coach: The coach.

GOALS:CAFUNDÉU: Heitor 22'/25'.
ANROW: #10 78'.

Fans Expect Victory

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

With the third match of the Baptism of Fire tournement just twenty four hours away, Fort Europe's football supporters are expecting to take all three points against Anrow at the Temple of Yak stadium. Thousands of football fans from accross the Commonwealth have made the journey here to cheer this team to victory and give Fort Europe a fighting chance of making it through to the Quater Finals in a months time. The massive influx of extra supporters for this match is yet another show of patriotism that we have come to expect from all Commonwealth citizens.
"The lads will go out there and play their hearts out for the fans wether the be milions out there or just one, because it is the best way we can say thankyou for the support we are given." Said team manager Stuart Moss in a training session earlier today. Fort Europe may be favorates to win this match, but they are not taking anything for granted. The team for the match remains vertually the same, with Vicky Princess starting in place of Andy Fletcher. Laura Harris takes her place on the substitute bench as Shaun Pearson is ruled out with a twisted ankle.

Formation: 4 - 4 - 2
Bias: +2

SQUAD

GK - James West
DF R - Floe Peltsten
DF C - Tim Forrester (C)
DF C - Murphy Lee
DF L - Aki Haddon
MF R - Gemma Lloyd
MF C - Vicky Princess
MF C - Ryan Holmes
MF L - Mia Nevola
AF - Michelle Bishop
AF - Karl Isaak

SUBS

GK - Ed Russell
DF - Laura Harris
MF - Katherine Keller
MF - Andy Fletcher
AF - Chris Lessinger

I will be doing both sets of scores today. Here are the scores and table for the Spaam Region:

Group Crosshill
Snub Nose 39 1:3 Race Track
Paleoslavia 1:1 The Deathbat Republic

Group Al Quds
Dumania 2:2 Nomadasia
The New Hypocria 0:1 Stromboland

Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Paleoslavia 3 1 2 0 5 3 5 +2 62
Race Track 3 1 1 1 4 4 4 +0 50
Snub Nose 39 3 1 1 1 5 6 4 -1 45
The Deathbat Republic 3 0 2 1 3 4 2 -1 42

Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 3 2 0 1 5 1 6 +4 83
Dumania 3 1 1 1 4 4 4 +0 50
Nomadasia 3 1 1 1 4 6 4 -2 40
Stromboland 3 1 0 2 2 4 3 -2 33

And the scores and tables for the Az-cz region:

Group Giant Zucchini
Cafundeu 2:1 The HURD
Fort Europe 1:0 Anrow

Group Dennisov
The Gold TyGrr 1:3 Salwinia
Noremark 3:2 Choobie International

Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu 3 2 1 0 6 4 7 +2 60
Fort Europe 3 1 2 0 4 3 5 +1 57
Anrow 3 1 0 2 4 5 3 -1 44
The HURD 3 0 1 2 4 6 1 -2 40


Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Salwinia 3 2 0 1 8 5 6 +3 61
Noremark 3 2 0 1 8 6 6 +2 57
The Gold TyGrr 3 1 0 2 5 7 3 -2 41
Choobie International 3 1 0 2 5 8 3 -3 38

Nomadasia battled back from two goals today against Dumania in a thoroughly entertaining match. Nomadasia went two goals down within 30 minutes after a great individual effort by some Dumania guy, and a terrbile mistake by Fat Girl With Moustache. The first goal came on 6 minutes when Nomadasia gave away a freekick and a Dumania striker whipped in a beautiful 30 yard free kick. Dumania then doubled their lead 4 minutes later as GoalkeepeR Fat Girl With Moustache completely missed an attempted clearance and the ball trickled back into the net. Dumania then had numerous chances which they squandered before the first half and Nomadasia were lucky to go in just 2 down.

Manager Wise Old Bill wrang the changes at half time, swapping, Long Legs Jimmy, ณ, J The Bar Owner for Korean Guy, ไม่บอก and หญิง, and these changes seemes to work wonders for Nomadasia as they came out all guns blazing in the second half, and 15 minutes in Captain Cheeto grabbed one back in bizzare circumstances as he tried to close down a poor passback his laces got wrapped around his studs and he tripped over. Whilst this happened, Dumania's GK had cleared the ball but it thumped off Cheeto's head, almost taking it off and the ball flew into the net. Celebrations were slighly muted as the skipper had to go off for stiches.

However he soon returned to action and as Nomadasia looked like the were heading to their second straight defeat Cheeto rose above the defence from a corner from Korean Guy and headed the ball past a stumbling keeper to spark wild celebrations.
In a post match interview, CHeeto was asked about his performance today after bagging a brace, 'W00tness in the p00tness.'

Every Goal Counts
@ Temple of Yak, Az-Cz
Attendence: 64,894

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

This may have been Fort Europe's first win on the NS stage, but for the moment they remain undefeated, placed second in the Giant Zucchini group and well on their way to the Quater finals. The match against Anrow however was anything but easy, and only a goal seperated the two sides at the end of ninty minutes. My star guest in the commentry box for this match was the stunningly beautiful Elves Security Forces' starlette Kyla Night who didn't really pay much attention to the match, but commented afterwards that the Fort Europe team would go all the way to the final of the NS Baptism of Fire tournement this year. Kyla, who plays her football for Gladerial Twilight in ESF was recently linked with a move to Commonwealth Domestic League team Stape Harriers, though she refused to comment on this speculation during the match.

The match started like any other with the national anthem's of both sides following that of their gracious hosts Az-Cz. Both teams seemed slow in starting and neither side gained any ground in the first half with the over cautious referee disrupting any flowing movements. It wasn't until the second half that the deadlock was broken, Fort Europe clearly the more awake of the two sides after their team talk broke away early with a quick movement down the left wing. Mia Nevola's cross finding substitute Chris Lessinger on the edge of the area who layed a simple ball back to Vicky Princess to shoot from 35 yards. The ball clipped the underside of the bar as it dropped into the left corner of the goal making the shot impossible for the Anrow keeper to do anything other than watch. The rest of the game was played out fairly evenly with James West in goal stopping a hand full of reasonable shots but nothing that truely bothered him.

At the end of the third week in Az-Cz the travelling Fort Europe suporters have enjoyed an almost constant party atmousphere here with massive crouds turning out to the many additional activities that have been organised for them during their stay. Many curious about the local sports that have been advertised throughout the competition were rewarded last week to see several of their favorate footballer's also turning out to watch a game of Kleptochase. Apparently this week the players will be trying their hand at Az-Cz's version of Capture the Flag during their day off, which it is rumoured bares a reseblence to the Commonwealth's national sport, Airsoft, though this hasn't been confirmed.

Next Fort Europe travel to play group leaders Cafundeu for the sequil to the opening match which saw both teams play to an extremely high level of football and come away with two goals a piece. Stuart Moss commented on their next opponants at the end of our last interview to say, "Cafundeu are a good side who deserve to be at the top of this group. My hope is that we can play well and knock them from that top spot next week, however nothing is cirtain in this game and all I can hope for is that the best team wins on the day. Of course we all know that that team will be ours."

PLAYER RATINGS
(Out of 10)

8 - James West
7 - Floe Peltsten
7 - Tim Forrester (C)
7 - Murphy Lee []
7 - Aki Haddon
6 - Gemma Lloyd
9 - Vicky Princess (47)
8 - Ryan Holmes
9 - Mia Nevola
8 - Michelle Bishop
7 - Karl Isaak []

SUBS

- - Ed Russell
7 - Laura Harris (On for Lee (65))
7 - Katherine Keller (On for Lloyd (79)) []
- - Andy Fletcher
8 - Chris Lessinger (On for Isaak (45))

http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1994/wc94_009.jpg
Brahma running with the ball

(Silmes Stadium, Az-Cz) - Under heavy rain, Cafundéu was able to defeat The HURD's NT by the same result of the game against Anrow. This time the game was as bit more difficult, and the first half even ended in a draw. But the white-black team could use all the ability of its players to get the victory.

Unfortunately, the match had to end before the 90th minute, because of the heavy rain that transformed the field in an aquarium. A curious fact is that the sun was still shining even with the strong rain. Because of the wet grass, the players had difficulties to make short passes and good dribbles, but in the end the game was good and the supporters didn't complain, and some people won money selling umbrellas and raincoats.

This game was much more peaceful than the game against Anrow, although two players got injured and one got a cold. The teams respected each other and the referee had an easy job. Cafundéu's next game will be against Fort Europe, and a victory can give the qualification to Cafundéu.

The HURD didn't release the name of its players, so we'll use the numbers again.

THE GAME
The game started with long passes and wasted plays, because of the bad conditions of the wet grass. Both teams tried to use the wings to attack and cross to the taller players. In the 2nd minute, Ray Kirs dribbled a midfielder and crossed to the area, but Becão headed the ball and sent it over the bar.

5th minute: #13 passed to #15 who, inside the area, made a bad shot and sent the ball over the bar. 12th minute: Anormal made a long pass to Ganz Ijak, who passed to Heitor that missed the shot. In the rebound, Brahma sent the ball wide.

After some minutes of bad football, the teams started to adapt themselves to the game and were able to make good plays and goal chances. 15th minute: Brahma came from the right and passed to Priotto. But Priotto's shot missed the goal. 21st minute: Brahma came again from the right and passed to Priotto in the entrance of the area. This time Priotto could make a good shot and scored the goal.

26th minute: Kliek shot a puddle of water and the ball remained to #10, who dribbled a defender and shot to the goal, obligating Vargas to make a good save. 28th minute: Kliek received the ball from Vandick and shot. #1 made a good save. 31st minute: #10 tried to dribble Ducas and was fouled. Yellow card to him. #7 took the free kick and was near to score, but Ducas headed the ball away.

34th minute: Ray Kirs crossed to Heitor, who waited a moment to pass to Anormal. Anormal tried a long range shot, but couldn't score. 36th minute: In a fast counterattack after Heitor slipped in the water and lost the ball, #9 was able to score the goal with a strong shot. 1x1.

39th minute: #15 received a yellow card after fouling Anormal. #18 tried to defend the team mate and received a yellow card too. Vandick took the foul, the ball hit the post, two players slipped and the ball remained to Kliek, who dribbled a defender and shot, but #1 could save.

44th minute: Brahma took a corner kick, sending the ball to the area. Priotto, #18, #4 and Heitor didn't reach the ball, but Kliek could hit it with a volley, but the keeper was well positioned. The first half ended after good moments by both teams. For the second half, Braddock put Ernesto Ijak in Heitor's place. The HURD's coach didn't change nothing.

The second half started better than the first, but the rain was more strong. 2nd minute: Ernesto Ijak dribbled a defender and passed tp Brahma inside the area, but he was blocked by the defender. 4th minute: #4 fouled Ernesto Ijak inside the area and the referee marked a penalty. Ganz Ijak shot and the ball hit the post, missing this chance.

8th minute: First The HURD chance in the second half. #18 passed to #10, but Becão could take the ball back. 10th minute: Brahma received the ball and passed to Ganz Ijak, who made a good play inside the area and fell. The referee didn't see the penalty(that didn't happen).

14th minute: #7 tried a long range shot, and Vargas had to make another good save. 17th minute: Ducas ran from the defense and passed to Anormal. The giant escaped from the opponents and crossed to Ganz Ijak, who headed to score the second goal of Cafundéu. Ducas hurt his shoulder in the play and had to leave. Wantuirso entered in his place.

20th minute: The HURD's coach put #20 in #18's place. The HURD was trying to attack, but couldn't find breaches in Cafundéu's well organized defense. Brahma started to sneeze and left the game, probably with a cold. Mercegues entered in his place.

24th minute: Priotto received a yellow card after fouling #9. Two minutes later, Ganz Ijak had another chance to score, but instead of shoot he tried to pass the ball to Mercegues and lost the ball. The rain was so strong that the teams couldn't attack with strength anymore, all that they could do were long range shots and long passes.

28th minute: #15 tried a long range shot, but Vargas saved. In the rebound, #10 lost an incredible chance and hurt himself. #17 entered in his place. 31st minute: Ray Kirs shot from outside the area and #1 made a good save. 34th minute: Due to the bad weather conditions, the referee decided to end the game. Cafundéu 2x1.

After the game, Brahma said: "A good game for us, but the bad weather disturbed our match and our style. Now I'll take a medicine to play the next game". Midfielder Priotto said: "I'm suspended for the next match, so I'm nervous and don't want to comment nothing".

Defender Ray Kirs said: "I played well this game, my best game in this competition so far. It's important to win and we're try to win the next games". Goalkeeper Vargas said: "Ijak was good today and scored for us. We won't lose so easy! I'm sure that next game we'll play well and make our best to win".

The coach Franz Braddock released the team for the next game: "The same of every game: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Mercegues, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. Style is an offensive +2. i hope that we can play well next game, It'll be a difficult one. Fort Europe is a good team. It'll not be easy to defeat them, but it'll not be easy for them to defeat us. We'll give a lot of work for them, it's certain, and we can get a good result without much problems. We lost two important players: Ducas and Ernesto Ijak. Ducas got hurt during the game, and now we discovered that Ernesto Ijak can't play the next two or three games, and can even stay out of the quarterfinals".

http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1994/wc94_026.jpg
Ganz Ijak's missed penalty

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Ducas(Wantuirso); Anormal, Priotto, Brahma(Mercegues) and Kliek; Heitor(Ernesto Ijak) and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

THE HURD: #1, #2, #13 and #4; #5, #15, #18(#20) and #7; #9 and #10(#17).
Coach: The coach.

GOALS: CAFUNDÉU: Priotto 21' , Ganz Ijak 62'.
THE HURD: #9 36'.

Group Crosshill
The Deathbat Republic 2:1 Race Track
Snub Nose 39 2:1 Paleoslavia
Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Snub Nose 39 4 2 1 1 7 7 7 +0 50
Paleoslavia 4 1 2 1 6 5 5 +1 54
The Deathbat Republic 4 1 2 1 5 5 5 +0 50
Race Track 4 1 1 2 5 6 4 -1 45

Group Al Quds
Stromboland 4:0 Nomadasia
Dumania 1:1 The New Hypocria
Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 4 2 1 1 6 2 7 +4 75
Stromboland 4 2 0 2 6 4 6 +2 60
Dumania 4 1 2 1 5 5 5 +0 50
Nomadasia 4 1 1 2 4 10 4 -6 28

Group Giant Zucchini
Anrow 0:3 The HURD
Cafundeu 6:3 Fort Europe
Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu 4 3 1 0 12 7 10 +5 63
Fort Europe 4 1 2 1 7 9 5 -2 43
The HURD 4 1 1 2 7 6 4 +1 53
Anrow 4 1 0 3 4 8 3 -4 33

Group Dennisov
Choobie International 2:1 Salwinia
The Gold TyGrr 2:5 Noremark
Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Noremark 4 3 0 1 13 8 9 +5 61
Salwinia 4 2 0 2 9 7 6 +2 56
Choobie International 4 2 0 2 7 9 6 -2 43
The Gold TyGrr 4 1 0 3 7 12 3 -5 36

A Sunday Roasting
@Slimes Stadium
Attendence: 62,518

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

Stuffed with all the trimmings, Fort Europe fell to a massive defeat with a clear three goal difference between the two sides in a match than many expected to be much closer. Fort Europe's players and supporters alike will feel hard done by however after keeper James West was contriversially sent off in the twenty third minute for handling the ball outside the area. In front of a largely Cafundeu support filled stadium, ten man Fort Europe put in a brave performance but struggled to find the net often enough to keep them in the game. Michelle Bishop's hat-trick the only real highlight in a heafty defeat for the travelling side. Cafundeu however were clearly the stronger side in front of their own croud and showed it by putting the ball past substitute keeper Ed Russell no less than six times.

"The referee clearly didn't see the incident properly, the replays clearly show James taking the ball on the chest before clearing it up field. If anything it was the bravest move I've ever seen him make." Commented former Fort Europe international striker Adrian Nohoper, who was my guest in the press box for todays match. Stuart Moss had this to say, "James says he didn't handle it and I believe him, the guy's never lied to me before, and I'll be putting in a complaint to the tournement organisers first thing in the morning."
The fans also showed their anger at the referee with a selection of chants and songs that are probably best not repeated. The team will attempt to improve matters and perform better as they take on The HURD at the Temple of Yak for their penultimate group match.

3 - James West []
5 - Floe Peltsten
4 - Tim Forrester (C)
6 - Murphy Lee
5 - Aki Haddon []
4 - Gemma Lloyd
5 - Vicky Princess
6 - Ryan Holmes []
5 - Mia Nevola
7 - Michelle Bishop (8,15,59)
4 - Karl Isaak

SUBS

4 - Ed Russell (On for Lee (23))
- - Laura Harris
5 - Katherine Keller (On for Lloyd (45))
- - Andy Fletcher
4 - Chris Lessinger (On for Isaak (65))

To the nation of Fort Europe,

We apologize for the refereeing error in your match against Cafundeu. While we do think it was a close call, after reviewing the tape we do believe that you are correct in your claim that the keeper didn't in fact handle the ball. However it was a very close call and as such can understand how a referee would make an error in the flow of live play. Unfortunately refereeing errors are a part of football. You are not alone in terms of having suffered by them. But rest assured we are listening to your concern and trying to provide the best officials possible. Good luck in your remaining group stage matches.

This is a short message to the Dumanian team which is doing very wel in this tournament they have lost only one game out of three which is to our opinion a very good performance.

Rise of the Thunderclap

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

The team may have accepted the ruling of the tournements governing body as the final word, but they are not taking any chances with their next match with the players being ordered to give no quater to their opponants. Fort Europe will face The HURD head on at the Temple of Yak just two hours from now and already the supporters are making themselves heard throughout the city. The nations of the Commonwealth have long held sacred their warrior backgrounds, much of which is symbolised in the singing and chanting performed by the supporters at every match, it's central nation Fort Europe being no acception.

The Temple of Yak naturally reflects sound back into the stadium by vertue of it's well designed roof and tiers, making an excellent venue to create the cocophony of sound that the players will use to their advantage here as they attempt to intimidate the travelling supporters from The HURD. Already people are arriving at this game in anticipation of a breathtaking display by both players and supporters as the team aims to force it's way into the next round, the anger of last weeks defeat driving the passion of any Commonwealth citizen with even a fleeting intrest in football. In an attempt to turn the tide of this new level of passion to his favour he has opted for a more attacking formation with Gemma Lloyd and Mia Nevola pushed to the full width of the pitch to make better use of the wing, and provide the midfield with a solid foundation with Ryan Holmes being used as a playmaker in the centre of the pitch. Moss knows this tactic has worked before for him, and having studied The HURD's technique in their first match, is cirtain his players can break down any attacks at their source.

Formation: 3 - 5 - 2
Bias: +2

SQUAD

GK - Ed Russell
DF C - Tim Forrester (C)
DF C - Murphy Lee
DF L - Aki Haddon
MF R - Gemma Lloyd
MF C - Katherine Keller
MF C - Ryan Holmes
MF C - Vicky Princess
MF L - Mia Nevola
AF - Michelle Bishop
AF - Karl Isaak

SUBS

GK - Tom Reas
DF - Laura Harris
MF - Edowine Sanjuan
MF - Andy Fletcher
AF - Chris Lessinger

http://www.lancenet.com.br/resources/15095.JPG
Heitor commemorates the sixth goal

(Slimes Stadium, Az-Cz) - In a wonderful game with many goals, Cafundéu could show all the power of its players defeating the second placed team in the group. Cafundéu was really much better in the game, while Fort Europe couldn't organize its defense, although the attack did a good job.

The keeper of Fort Europe, West, was sent off in the 23rd minute for handling the ball outside his area, although many TV programmes showed that the referee made an error. The substitute suffered all the goals, but the defeat wasn't his fault, the defense played really badly too, and the attackers of Cafundéu were great.

Fort Europe showed all the power of its attack scoring three goals, but it wasn't enough for getting a good result, but they are still in the second position. Cafundéu is already qualified. The game was good, with peace and respect between the teams.

THE GAME
The beautiful night, without clouds, was very different from the last game, when the rain destroyed the game. The game started and Cafundéu's players didn't really entered in the game, making many errors in the start of the game and suffering two goals. Fort Europe started well, but took advantage because of the really bad start of Cafundéu.

3rd minute: Vargas tried to shoot the ball away from the defense, but he missed the ball and the ball passed near the goal. 5th minute: Bishop shot from outside the area, Vargas couldn't save, but the ball passed over the bar. 8th minute: Becão lost the ball inside the area, Bishop dribbled Vargas and scored the first goal. 0x1.

11th minute: Ray Kirs crossed the ball and Becão headed, but the keeper made an easy save. 15th minute: Mercegues passed the ball to the defense, but Sávio Ferrari couldn't dominate the ball and Bishop got it. She dribbled Vargas again and scored the second goal. 0x2. 16th minute: Anormal tried a long range shot, but it hit the bar. 20th minute: Nevola passed to Holmes, who, inside the area, dribbled the goalkeeper but shot the ball in the post.

After many mistakes, Cafundéu's coach, Franz Braddock, entered in the field and shouted to the players: "What do you think that you're doing? You're not playing, you're walking on the field. Absolutely ridiculous! Move on, are you sleeping? I know that you can play much better and I want to see it! Vargas, you'll leave, you're playing very badly today."

The referee asked for Braddock to return to the bench, and he returned, and put Durepox in Vargas' place. The team understood the coach and started to run more and play better. 21st minute: Heitor received a ball from the left, made a good play and passed to Vandick who shot with strength, but West saved. In the corner, Anormal was near to score, but missed the goal.

23rd minute: Heitor received the ball and ran. Dribbled two defenders, but West left the goal. So, he tried to shoot the ball over West to score, but the ball hit West's chest and Lee cleared. But the referee said that West handballed the ball and showed him the red card. So Moss put Russell in Lee's place. Vandick took the free kick but sent the ball wide.

26th minute: Fort Europe attacked with Isaak, but he was fouled by Anormal, who received the yellow card. The replay showed later that Anormal didn't foul Isaak, although Isaak didn't simulate the foul, so the yellow card was unfair. Princess took the foul and passed to Isaak, who made a great shot, obligating Durepox to make a great save.

28th minute: Anormal made a long pass to Brahma, who passed to Ray Kirs. Kirs invaded the area, dribbled a defender and shot the ball to the left side of the goal, scoring a beautiful goal. 1x2. 30th minute: Mercegues got the ball in the midfield and passed to Brahma. The number 10 made a good play in the right wing and crossed to the area, where Ganz Ijak headed the ball over the bar.

33rd minute: Kliek took the ball from Forrester and passed to Ganz Ijak. The striker dribbled two defenders and shot to score another goal. 2x2. 35th minute: Princess passed to Holmes, that tried to score from a long range shot, but Durepox could save without difficulties. 39th minute: Kliek took the ball from Forrester again and passed to Vandick. Vandick ran and crossed to the area, where Heitor passed to Ganz Ijak, who shot with strength to score his second goal. 3x2.

43rd minute: Bishop received the ball from Lloyd. Couldn't find any breach in the defense and passed back to Lloyd, who crossed to the area. Nevola headed and Durepox saved. 45th minute: Vandick crossed to the area and Becão headed, but Russell saved. The first half ended.

http://www.gamagol.com.br/images/bastidores/04.jpg
Fort Europe players before the game

Both coaches changed their teams. Moss put Keller in Lloyd's place, while Braddock put Incisivo in Mercegues' place(Mercegues wasn't in a very good physical situation). The second half started good, with good chances. In the first minute, Incisivo tried to dribble Haddon but was fouled. Haddon received the yellow card.

Kliek took the foul and scored a beautiful goal, giving no chances to the goalkeeper. 4x2. 4th minute: Holmes passed to Bishop, who dribbled Sávio Ferrari but was fouled by Becão, who received the yellow card. The foul was a missing chance. 6th minute: Anormal passed to Incisivo, who invaded the area and crossed to Ganz Ijak who headed to score another goal. 5x2.

10th minute: Ganz Ijak received the ball from Ray Kirs, tried to invade the area, but the defender tackled sucessfully. 14th minute: Cafundéu was attacking very much, and let Fort Europe create a counterattack. Bishop received the ball and scored. 5x3.

18th minute: Ray Kirs was fouled near the area. Holmes received the yellow card. Kirs crossed to the area and Anormal headed, but the keeper saved well. Lessinger entered in Isaak's place. 21st minute: Brahma appeared well and created a good chance to Kliek, but he missed. 23rd minute: Kliek created a good chance after a play from the left, passing the ball to Brahma, who sent the ball wide.

27th minute: Incisivo passed to Brahma who appeared well again, but this time he tried to score shooting from outside the area, and missed. 30th minute: A Fort Europe supporter threw a rock on Becão. The idiot was arrested(many Fort Europe supporters were criticizing the violent fan) and Becão needed to leave. Manuel Padaria entered in his place.

34th minute: Lessinger had a good chance after a corner but missed the goal. 35th minute: In a fast counterattack, Heitor was able to dribble a defender and score another goal for Cafundéu. 6x3. After the sixth goal, Cafundéu started to hold the ball to keep the result, while Fort Europe couldn't get the ball back.

After ten minutes holding the ball without goal chances, the game ended. The referee had problems in leaving the stadium. After the game, striker Ganz Ijak said: "I scored three goals and could help my team to win this important victory. I'm really happy today". Defender Vandick said: "A good game and a good result. Thanks to our coach". Defender Ray Kirs said: "Yes, a surprising game, we are really happy to win". Midfielder Kliek also said: "We are fighting for the title!"

Coach Franz Braddock didn't talk much: "Yes, we win, it was a good result. Next game's team will be: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Sávio Ferrari and Wantuirso; Anormal, Priotto, Mercegues and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. Style of +2.5. We have some players suspended or injured, so we can't use all our best players.

http://www.paulistafutebol.com.br/new/fotos/10.jpg
Cafundéu's supporters watching the game

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas(Durepox), Vandick, Kirs, Becão(Manuel Padaria) and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Mercegues(Incisivo), Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

FORT EUROPE: West, Peltsten, Forrester, Lee(Russell) and Haddon; Lloyd(Keller), Princess, Holmes and Nevola; Bishop and Isaak(Lessinger).
Coach: Stuart Moss.

GOALS: CAFUNDÉU: Kirs 28' , Ganz Ijak 33'/39'/51' , Kliek 46' , Heitor 80'.
FORT EUROPE: Bishop 8'/15'/59'.

Here are the results for Match Day 5 for the Az-cz Region:

Group Giant Zucchini
Fort Europe 6:1 The HURD
Anrow 1:3 Cafundeu

Group Dennisov
Noremark 4:1 Salwinia
Choobie International 3:2 The Gold TyGrr

Group Giant Zuchinni M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu (Qualified) 5 4 1 0 15 8 13 +7 65
Fort Europe (Qualified) 5 2 2 1 13 10 8 +3 56
The HURD 5 1 1 3 8 12 4 -4 40
Anrow 5 1 0 4 5 11 3 -6 31

Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Noremark (Qualified) 5 4 0 1 17 9 12 +8 65
Choobie International 5 3 0 2 10 11 9 -1 47
Salwinia 5 2 0 3 10 11 6 -1 47
The Gold TyGrr 5 1 0 4 9 15 3 -6 37

Group Crosshill
Paleoslavia 0:2 Race Track
The Deathbat Republic 1:3 Snub Nose 39
Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Snub Nose 39 5 3 1 1 10 8 10 +2 55
Race Track 5 2 1 2 7 6 7 +1 53
Paleoslavia 5 1 2 2 6 7 5 -1 46
The Deathbat Republic 5 1 2 2 6 8 5 -2 42

Group Al Quds
The New Hypocria 0:1 Nomadasia
Stromboland 1:3 Dumania
Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
Dumania 5 2 2 1 8 6 8 +2 57
The New Hypocria 5 2 1 2 6 3 7 +3 66
Nomadasia 5 2 1 2 5 10 7 -5 33
Stromboland 5 2 0 3 7 7 6 +0 50

Noremark Qualifies For Second Round!

FORT BEN-DEGLY – The National Football Team of Noremark have just qualified for the second round of the Baptism of Fire after a decisive win against Salwinia! The Royals played their heart out today, proving successful against Salwinia, who has also looking for a second round spot. After about ninety-minutes of football, Noremark defeated the team at the Ben-Degly Pagoda in style with a score of 4-1.

The Royals began the match, holding onto the ball for most of the first half. A weak defense from Salwinia gave the Royals many opportunities to score. The first goal came at the twelfth minute when Niels Wilkinson shot one from the penalty box into the net. At the twenty-second, Lars Aranosk caught a pass from Hakan Stravik, which he shot into the net to score. Next came a few scares as Salwinia began to look offensive. Sebastian Ryhers stole the ball around mid-field and took it downfield to score in the thirty-ninth, making the score 3-0. After half-time, the entire reserve team was out playing against Salwinia. The squad held on to nearly shut out Salwinia, however a forward managed to make it past the defense to make the score 3-1. At the eighty-fourth minute, however, Matias Niksje made the most out of a corner pick by heading one into the back of the net, making for the final score of 4-1. The Royals are looking forward to playing in the second round, however they are looking toward their final group match against Choobie International at the Knight’s Colliseum.

“Choobie should be easy, I see us scoring about five or so goals against them…” said Niels Wilkinson of the upcoming match, which will be shown live on Nordic television.

Top Goal Scorers
1. Niels Wilkinson - 5
2. Lars Aranosk - 4
3. Sebastian Ryhers - 3
4. Matias Niksje – 3
5. Hakan Stravik - 2

Nomadasia bouyed their chances of qualification into the second round by beating New Hypocria 1-0 after 2 consecutive defeats previously. Nomadasia now lie 3rd in the group with 7 points and must win their final match in order to progress. If they perform anything like they did against Dumania then this is a great possibility.
The scoreline flattered Hypocria who were utterly outclassed by the Nomads and they should have lost by 3 or 4. The single goal came from J the Bar Owner in the second half, after some outstanding work by substitute Neo on the right flank and J latched onto his cross to tap in from 6 yards. It will be great relief for J who squandered too glorious chances in the first half. Firstly heading over a free header and then later on blazing over the bar from 10 yards.

Nomadasia coach Old Wise Bill was hopeful about his chances of progressing after the match,' We've come along way in this tournement and we showed our class today. I'm very pleased for the boys and they know and I know we have a great chance of qualifying. Bring on Dumania!!!'
Captain Cheeto was also asked about their chances and he had the following to say, 'W00tness in the p00tness.'

http://www.avai.com.br/imagens/galerias/fotos/4448.jpg
#9 tries to dribble Sávio Ferrari

(Darzog’s Tower, Az-Cz) – In a boring game, Cafundéu defeated Anrow by the result of 3x1 and continued with a great performance in the Baptism of Fire. The stadium wasn’t filled, but the fans that watched the game helped to encourage both teams. Cafundéu had to change the white stripes of its shirt for red stripes, because of the color of the goalkeeper's shirt.

Now Cafundéu will end the group stage playing against The HURD. The game against Anrow wasn’t very exciting, but there were four goals. All the goals were scored by different players. Anrow didn’t release the name of its players, so we’ll use the numbers again.

THE GAME
The game started with a goal. Yes, in the 5th second of the game, Ray Kirs ran from the left and crossed. Inside the area, Kliek hit the ball with a bicycle kick and scored a wonderful goal. After this fast goal, Anrow tried to attack more, while Cafundéu used all the quality of its players to take the ball from the opponents.

Anrow couldn’t create any plays or goal chances, and was missing all the opportunities. Taking advantage of this situation, Cafundéu started to attack more, using short passes and the centre of the field. In the 4th minute, Ganz Ijak dribbled a defender and passed to Heitor, but he sent the ball over the bar.

In the 11th minute, Vandick passed to Anormal, who in the middle of the field, shot and caught the goalkeeper distracted, scoring a goal. 0x2. Anrow tried to score a goal in the 15th minute, when #9 crossed to #11, who headed in the hands of the goalkeeper Vargas and couldn’t score.

In the 13rd minute, Brahma dribbled a defender and was fouled by #4, that received the yellow card. Kliek took the free kick and passed to Heitor, who dribbled one defender and passed to Priotto in the right, but he couldn’t finish. 16th minute: In a fast counterattack, #8 passed to #11, who shot. Vargas made a good save.

20th minute: Anormal passed to Priotto, but #4 fouled him with a violent foul. Priotto replied pushing the opponent. The referee saw it and showed the red card to #4 and the yellow to Priotto. With one player more than the opponent, Cafundéu could dominate the game even more.

23rd minute: Wantuirso came from the defense in a good play and passed to Ganz Ijak, who tried to volley the ball. But the shot was weak and the keeper could save easily. 27th minute: Kliek created a good goal chance to Brahma, but the defender blocked the #10 of Cafundéu, who lost this goal chance.

32nd minute: Corner kick to Anrow. #6 crossed and #9 headed, but the ball hit the bar before leaving the field. 34th minute: Priotto came from the right in a good play and crossed. Ganz Ijak headed, the goalkeeper saved, and Vandick shot with strength in the rebound, but the goalkeeper saved again. In the corner, Ray Kirs missed a goal chance trying to score.

39th minute: #11 of Anrow received the yellow card after fouling Wantuirso. Vandick took the free kick but missed the goal. 45th minute: Heitor tried to score shooting after a pass made by Sávio Ferrari, but the ball went wide. End of the first half. For the second half the teams remained the same.

The second half started like the first, with only one team attacking with force. Anrow had few goal chances. 6th minute: Ganz Ijak received the ball after Kirs made a good play and tried to shot from outside the area, but the goalkeeper made a secure save. Two minutes after, Brahma was able to dribble three defenders and shot, but unfortunately the ball hit the post and he didn’t score this beautiful goal.

12th minute: Brahma started dribbling again, but was fouled by #6, who received a yellow card. 14th minute: #11 ran and dribbled Wantuirso, but Vargas took the ball from him in a good tackle. 19th minute: Anrow tried again, this time with #9, but his shot went over the bar.

After that, Vandick was tired and asked to leave. Braddock decided to put the team in a more offensive formation, and put Hauser in his place. Kirs became a midfielder and Anormal became a defender. Anrow’s coach didn’t change nothing in his team. Later, everyone noticed that he slept because of the boring game and the loss. Cafundéu continued to attack more and Anrow couldn’t break the solid defense.

24th minute: Brahma crossed to Hauser, who dribbled one defender but missed the shot. Heitor collected the ball but the defender blocked him. 26th minute: #20 of Anrow received the yellow card after fouling Hauser. 30th minute: #9 passed to #11 who tried a long range shot, but sent the ball over the bar.

33rd minute: #9 was fouled by Wantuirso, who received the yellow card. 36th minute: Ganz Ijak made a good play dribbling two defenders, but his shot was blocked by the defender and Kliek missed the rebound. 37th minute: In a fast counterattack, #11 could score the goal of Anrow. 1x2.

40th minute: Braddock put Incisivo in Heitor’s place. After 85 minutes of boring football, the teams stopped to attack, and Cafundéu returned to make only short passes willing to keep the result, but had some goal chances. 41st minute: Ray Kirs passed to Brahma who tried to shot from outside the area. The goalkeeper made a good save.

43rd minute: Anormal ran with speed and passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled one defender and scored. 1x3. Two minutes later, Ray Kirs received the yellow card. #8 of Anrow insulted the referee and received the red card. The game ended.

After the game, Hauser said: “We dominated this match, the result could be even better, but we couldn’t score in all our chances.” Defender Wantuirso said: “It was a boring game, but we won and we’ll try to win the next game.” Attacker Heitor said: “One more victory. Our confidence is very high and we will fight until the end.”

Coach Franz Braddock said: “Poor game, we could score more, but we didn’t play well. But next game we’ll try to improve our performance. I’ll make some tests for the next game and some starters will be on the bench, but can play. The team will be: Vargas, Fuchs, Kirs, Becão and Wantuirso; Anormal, Priotto, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. Style is an offensive +2.5.”

http://www.avai.com.br/imagens/galerias/fotos/4447.jpg
Confusion inside the area

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick(Hauser), Kirs, Sávio Ferrari and Wantuirso; Anormal, Priotto, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor(Incisivo) and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

ANROW: #12, #2, #3, #4 and #20; #15, #6, #10 and #8; #9 and #11.
Coach: The coach.

GOALS: ANROW: #11 82’.
CAFUNDÉU: Kliek 0’ , Anormal 11’ , Ganz Ijak 88’.

To: Slanderous Journalist from Nomadasia.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am both shocked and appalled at the purely fictional drivel you have been spewing for whatever rag of a publication you work for. I refer of course to the recently published segment . . .

The scoreline flattered Hypocria who were utterly outclassed by the Nomads and they should have lost by 3 or 4.

Now I’ve checked with our national side and I can categorically say that not one person in it or involved with it has even heard of a nation by the name Nomadasia let alone been “utterly outclassed” by any of the degenerates that reside there, Nomad or other.

Might I suggest you check you facts in future or I may not be so polite next time. That’s right. Lawyers!

Yours,

Wolfgang Perry
Director of Legal Affairs
Football Association of Hypocria

Roll a Six to Win
@ Temple of Yak
Attendence: 85,495

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News.

The noise from the Temple of Yak stadium last night could be heard five miles away in the centre of Az-Cz's thrid largest city as the supporters of Fort Europe raised their voices and the stadium roof with jubilation as they watched their team put the ball in the back of the net a staggering six times. The Fort Europe side were unstoppable, passing the ball confidently between themselves deep in the opposition half. Visiting team, The HURD were out classed and out played in every area of the pitch, visibly intimidated by the level of volume they were bombarded with from kickoff. Fans were handed thousands of small plastic hand-held drums at the turnstiles, which only served to increace the noise further.

Can I take these ear plugs out now? Asked Tim Lessinger, who was my guest in the press box for this game. Tim, father of striker Chris Lessinger, played as a striker himself for what was then the Bovingtonian Empire and is currently manager of Domestic Premiership side Stape Harriers. After doing so he commented on the team's superiority throughout the match and on the quality of Michelle Bishop who scored her second hat-trick of the competition. Mia Nevola's two goals added to the score line was rewarded with the Player of the Match award and the customary bottle of locally produced whiskey. Karl Isaak also made it onto the score sheet, while Ed Russell will be disapointed that he was unable to keep a clean sheet as the team lost consentration towards the end of the game.

PLAYER RATINGS

7 - Ed Russell
8 - Tim Forrester (C)
8 - Murphy Lee []
9 - Aki Haddon
8 - Gemma Lloyd
7 - Katherine Keller
9 - Ryan Holmes
8 - Vicky Princess
10 - Mia Nevola (28,41)
10 - Michelle Bishop (18,53,77)
9 - Karl Isaak (37)

SUBS

GK - Tom Reas
DF - Laura Harris
8 - Edowine Sanjuan (On for Keller (60))
8 - Andy Fletcher (On for Holmes (78))
AF - Chris Lessinger

Having assured themselves of a place in the next round, the team are likely to relax for their next match and give some of the newer players a run out on pitch. Mathmatically the side can not leave second position in either direction with only the one remaining game, providing the perfect oportunity to experiment with a few tactical ideas. The team sheet for the final group match is as follows.

TEAM SHEET

Formation: 3 - 5 - 2
Bias: -1

GK - Ed Russell
DF C - Laura Harris
DF C - Tim Forrester (C)
DF C - Mike Young
MF R - Gemma Lloyd
MF C - Vicky Princess
MF C - Edowine Sanjuan
MF C - Andy Fletcher
MF L - Will Jones
AF - Chris Lessinger
AF - Josephine Blanchard

SUBS

GK - James West
DF - Murphy Lee
MF - Mia Nevola
MF - Ryan Holmes
AF - Michelle Bishop

Group Giant Zucchini
The HURD 1:2 Cafundeu
Anrow 1:3 Fort Europe

Group Dennisov
Salwinia 0:2 The Gold TyGrr
Choobie International 3:1 Noremark

Group Giant Zucchini M W D L F A P GD G%
Cafundeu 6 5 1 0 17 9 16 +8 65
Fort Europe 6 3 2 1 16 11 11 +5 59
The HURD 6 1 1 4 9 14 4 -5 39
Anrow 6 1 0 5 6 14 3 -8 30

Group Dennisov M W D L F A P GD G%
Noremark 6 4 0 2 18 12 12 +6 60
Choobie International 6 4 0 2 13 12 12 +1 52
Salwinia 6 2 0 4 10 13 6 -3 43
The Gold TyGrr 6 2 0 4 11 15 6 -4 42

(Sorry for the late scores)

Group Crosshill
Race Track 2:1 Snub Nose 39
The Deathbat Republic 1:3 Paleoslavia

Group Al Quds
Nomadasia 1:1 Dumania
Stromboland 1:2 The New Hypocria

Group Crosshill M W D L F A P GD G%
Race Track 6 3 1 2 9 7 10 +2 56
Snub Nose 39 6 3 1 2 11 10 10 +1 52
Paleoslavia 6 2 2 2 9 8 8 +1 52
The Deathbat Republic 6 1 2 3 7 11 5 -4 38

Group Al Quds M W D L F A P GD G%
The New Hypocria 6 3 1 2 8 4 10 +4 66
Dumania 6 2 3 1 9 7 9 +2 56
Nomadasia 6 2 2 2 6 11 8 -5 35
Stromboland 6 2 0 4 8 9 6 -1 47

QuarterFinals

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/spaam.png Spaam

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/race_track.png Race Track vs Dumania http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/dumania.png
http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/the_new_hypocria.png The New Hypocria vs Snub Nose 39 http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/snub_nose_39.png

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/az-cz.png Az-Cz

http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/cafundeu.png Cafundeu vs Choobie International http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/choobie_international.png
http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/noremark.png Noremark vs Fort Europe http://spaam.mrdrake.net/flags/fort_europe.png

Noz-Tf: I'd like to congratulate the eight teams who advanced to the quarterfinals. Some tremendous football has been played so far and we hope to continue the fine play as we progress forward. Now I will announce the location for the matches that will be occurring in Az-cz. As a note, none of the teams will play in the city or stadium where they were based for the group stage.

Quarterfinals:

Cafundeu and Choobie International will play in the Red Dwarf Mine. This is one of the bigger stadiums in Az-cz home to the Red Dwarf Rangers, one of the strongest teams in the -League. Motifed in the theme of a gold mine, it has a very unique feel to it. Because we only wanted one team per city for the opening round we were unable to use it, but now it will get a chance to play host to this quarterfinal matchup.

Slimes Stadium will see a fine matchup between Noremark and Fort Europe
Due to the fact that Cafundeu has made the knockout round after being placed in Slimes Stadium, this is the only matchup that can be played in the national stadium in Az-cz city. However we believe that the two teams will provide a match worthy of Slimes Stadium.

Semifinals:

The two winners of those matches will advance to play in Darzog's Tower in Jia-Wa town. The vertical architecture will enhance the feel and buzz of this important match for these two sides battling to advance to the finals.

Finals:

For the finals we return to Mil-Bax, this time to Burlock Castle. This will be a fitting place to end this Baptism of Fire and a good introduction to Az-cz football stadiums for the team who makes their way over from Spaam. The Castle will be decked out in full regalia, with banners and what not flying over the stadium. We expect it to be a great atmosphere and are looking forward to hosting it.

"Well, it hasn't gone too badly, has it?"

"Truth be told... YES!"

"What do you mean?"

"We've made it through the group stage! We're supposed to narrowly avoid going through the group stage!"

"But we only won half of our games. It just so happened that all of our opponents seemed to be just as hopeless as we were!"

"THAT SHOULDN'T HAPPEN! If we want to live up to our name as The New Hypocria, then we have to play like the new Hypocria."

"Well, of course we have to play like The New Hypocria, because that's who we are!"

"No, I mean like the new version of the original Hypocria."

"Oh, right. Getcha."

"No this isn't good enough. Or do I mean bad enough?"

"Well, the good news is we play Snub Nose 39 next up. They'll have Margaret on their side, and obviously they're the new Snub Nose 38, what with them obviously being the sequel."

"SN38 were never actually that good at football, though."

"So..."

"We'll go out on penalties!"

"Get in!"

http://www.paulistafutebol.com.br/new/fotos/15.jpg
Supporters waiting for the start of the game

(Burlock Castle, Az-Cz) - Already qualified, Cafundéu played a calm and nice game against The HURD, and could win. Brahma had great influence in the game, making both assists. The coach Franz Braddock made some tests in this game, even putting Fuchs, a left-back, on the right side, and he did the job well.

The game wasn't so exciting, but was better than the last game against Anrow. Cafundéu's team played good football and The HURD, even eliminated, could still show the talent of its players. Now, the best team of the group stage will face Choobie International in the quarter-finals, and the supporters want to reach the semifinals, and later, the title.

The HURD didn't release the name of its players, so we'll use the numbers again.

THE GAME
Both teams started the game watching the style of the enemy. But The HURD surprised the visitors. In the 2nd minute, #22 dribbled the defender and shot the ball to the right side of the goal, scoring the first goal of the game. But Cafundéu replied two minutes later. Brahma made a good play from the right and crossed to Heitor, who headed the ball and scored. 1x1.

After two fast goals, both teams relaxed a bit and the teams attacked with less strength. In the 6th minute, Brahma appeared again and passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot, but #1 made a good save. 8th minute: #22 passed to #19, who shot to the goal, but Wantuirso intercepted the ball.

13th minute: Ganz Ijak dribbled a defender and crossed to Kliek in the left side, but Kliek tried to dribble #14 and missed the ball, losing a good chance. 16th minute: Priotto passed to Kliek, who dribbled a defender and tried to dribble the goalkeeper, but #1 could took the ball back.

20th minute: #14 made a long range pass to #10, who tried to shot from outside the area. Vargas could save easily. 24th minute: Fuchs got the ball, ran and invaded the area in a great play. Passed to Anormal, who shot from outside the area, but the ball went wide.

26th minute: Fuchs fouled #10 and received the yellow card. #10, injured, had to leave and #8 entered in his place. #8 took the foul and the ball hit the bar before leaving the field. 29th minute: Anormal received the ball from Ray Kirs and invaded the area. He passed the ball to Ganz Ijak who shot with strength, but the ball went wide.

32nd minute: #2 passed the ball back to the goalkeeper, but #1 get the ball with his hands, so an indirect free kick was given to Cafundéu and the goalkeeper received the yellow card. Kliek shot, the ball hit the wall. Priotto got the rebound but couldn't find a space to shot, so he passed to Heitor, who shot but the keeper was able to save.

37th minute: After 5 minutes of bad goal opportunities and many missed shots, #7 passed to #8 inside the area, the defender blocked his path and he passed to #10, who headed the ball, but sent it over the bar. 41st minute: Fuchs passed to Wantuirso, who was fouled. Priotto took the free kick shooting from a long distance, and was near to score, but the ball went wide.

44th minute: Brahma dribbled a defender and passed to Ganz Ijak, who shot the ball that hit a defender. In the rebound, Anormal shot and the ball hit the goalkeeper's face, who recovered minutes after. Injury Time: #7 headed the ball after a corner kick, but Vargas saved.

For the second half, both teams remained the same. In the first minute, #4 fouled Priotto and received the yellow card. 3rd minute: Heitor dribbled a defender and passed to Kliek, who shot and missed the goal. 5th minute: #22 made a beautiful shot from outside the area and Vargas had to make a wonderful save.

10th minute: Corner kick for Cafundéu. Brahma took it and Becão jumped more than the defenders and headed the ball to score. 1x2. After the second goal, Braddock seemed satisfied with the good performance of the team and smiled to the cameras.

12th minute: Becão passed to Anormal, who created a good goal chance to Brahma, but he missed the goal. 14th minute: #18 came from the right and tried to surprise the goalkeeper with a strange shot, that was easily intercepted by the defender Wantuirso. 17th minute: Ray Kirs ran from the left and crossed into the area, but the defense was able to clear the danger.

21st minute: Ray Kirs made another good play from the left, but this time he invaded the area and shot. The goalkeeper saved. So, Braddock put Menzir in Anormal's place and Hauser in Ganz Ijak's place. This meant that Braddock was resting the main players of the team for the quarterfinal's game.

26th minute: The Cafundéu's NT started to slow his attacks and to use less attackers. Then, The HURD tried to score. #7 shot, the goalkeeper gave the rebound and #16 shot again, but the ball hit the post and went wide. The HURD's coach put #11 in #16's place.

30th minute: Brahma passed to Hauser, who invaded the area and passed to Fuchs. He dribbled the goalkeeper, but the defender could block his shot and save the team. 32nd minute: #11 crossed to #7, but Vargas got the ball before the attacking midfielder. Cafundéu was controlling the game, attacking when they wanted and stopping all The HURD attacks without difficulty.

36th minute: Menzir, out of form, couldn't create good plays for Cafundéu, and lost the ball in the defense. #9 had a good chance, but Becão cleared. 38th minute: #18 received a yellow card after fouling Ganz Ijak. 39th minute: Kliek recieved a yellow card after fouling a defender. 41st minute: Hauser passed to Priotto, who tried to shoot from outside the area and missed.

The last minutes of the game didn't have good oportunities, and the game ended 1x2. Midfielder Kliek said: "Our last game in the group stage was good, let's go face now our opponent in the quarterfinals, and I hope that we win this game too." Defender Becão said: "We are prepared to win this championship. It'll be a great step for our country."

Coach Franz Braddock was happy too: "We were the best team of the group stage and I'm sure that we can win even more and become the best team of the entire competition. I'm really proud of this team and I like everyone. Now let's play the next game with all our ability, will and heart! Next team will be: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. The style will be +2 again, we're adapted to this style. Ducas can return to the bench, so we'll have full power!"

http://www.gazetaesportiva.net/historia/futebol/campeonato_brasileiro/imagens/1995_1.jpg
Dispute in the area

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Fuchs. Kirs, Becão and Wantuirso; Anormal(Menzir), Priotto, Brahma and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak(Hauser).
Coach: Franz Braddock.

THE HURD: #1, #2, #14, #4 and #5; #18, #7, #22 and #16(#11); #9 and #10(#8).
Coach: The coach.

GOALS: CAFUNDÉU: Heitor 4' , Becão 55'.
THE HURD: #22 2'.

CAF's best goalscorers:
6- Ganz Ijak
4- Heitor
2- Anormal and Kliek
1- Becão, Priotto, Kirs

QuarterFinals

Race Track 2:3 Dumania
The New Hypocria 1:2 Snub Nose 39

SemiFinal 1

Dumania vs Snub Nose 39

Margaret sat with the Minister of Sport and the Manager for the Hooligan Selects in a small conference room next to the cavernous office space that the TGWICICOTEBOTGAABOOS(LBWAOVGC)FTFFBOSN19 had. They were drinks passed around, with both the Minister and Manager opting for some double-carrel whiskey and Margaret for a margarita. "Well, the number gods are indeed pleased, we have made it all the way to the semi-finals," said the Manager.

"Pfft, we were playing The New Hypocria, they were bound to lose at some point," said the Minister. "Besides, we didn't even have a team on the field!"

"Speaking of which," interjected Margaret, "what are we going to do that? Are we going to be able to find ourselves a team at some point before the final or just throw a bunch of drunken bums out from the street to play football?"

"We've already had some tryouts, we just need to make a selection. We can have a half-decent team ready by the final."

"Wonderful, so were going to send out a bunch of naked half-decent football players in the final of the most prestigious beginners competition in the world?"

"Minister, it's the only beginners competition in the world."

"Oh. Right."

OOC: Sorry for the late scores. Per agreement Spaam was supposed to do them today. Either he'll get around to them or you have to wait another 6 hours or so for them.

OOC: Apologies, I had to run after I posted my half. I had not forgotten!

QuarterFinals

Cafundeu 3:2 AET (2:2) Choobie International
Noremark 4:1 Fort Europe

SemiFinals 2

Cafundeu vs Noremark

http://www.coritiba.com.br/inc/resize.php?w=400&h=280&arq=../imgdb/20062310174735111839.JPG
Choobie International attacking and Cafundéu defending

(Red Dwarf Mine, Az-Cz) – In a game very exciting, where the hypertension sufferers had to leave the stadium, Cafundéu could defeat Choobie International. The striker Ganz Ijak scored in the first half of the game, but a mistake made by the defense cost the victory in the normal time to Cafundéu.

The teams had to play the extra time, and after 16 minutes Cafundéu could score. Then, they held the ball until the end of the game. After the match, the players had a party and commemorated a lot. And the counselor of sports and president of the CCFM Samuel Makas watched the game and seemed happy too.

The game was very good, exciting and difficult. Both teams tried to score at all costs and the coaches changed their teams a lot to try to win. In the end of the game, this will to fight determined the winners. Now Cafundéu will play Noremark in the semifinals. This game maybe can even be an anticipated final, since both teams are having excellent campaigns, but Dumania and Snub Nose 39 will work hard to try to win too.

Choobie International didn’t release the names of its players, so we’ll use the numbers again.

THE GAME
The game started offensive, with both teams trying to score. Fast passes and shots were frequent. 2nd minute: Brahma passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot, but the goalkeeper made a great save. 5th minute: #8 of Choobie International came from the right and crossed, but #12 was unable to score.

9th minute: Vandick ran in the right wing and passed to Anormal, who dribbled a defender and passed to Heitor who, inside the area, shot but missed the goal. 11th minute: Kirs made a good play and crossed. Becão headed the ball to the goal, but the goalkeeper saved well. 13th minute: #7 passed to #10. He invaded the area and dribbled a defender, but his shot was saved by Júlio Vargas.

16th minute: Sávio Ferrari took the ball in the defense and passed to Priotto. He later sent the ball to Kliek, who shot and was blocked by #3. Ganz Ijak got the rebound and shot, but the ball went wide. 20th minute: #17 tried a long range shot, but Vargas sent the ball for a corner. #8 took the corner and #12 headed, but Becão was able to get the ball.

22nd minute: Heitor received the ball from Vandick. He dribbled a defender and passed the ball through the area. Brahma hit it and the goalkeeper had to make a very good save. 26th minute: #11 created a good chance after receiving the ball from #23, passing to #10 who shot with strength. Vargas saved. 28th minute: #23 received a yellow card after fouling Ray Kirs.

31st minute: Becão received a yellow card after fouling #10. #8 took the foul, but the ball went over the bar. 32nd minute: In a fast counterattack started by Vargas, Priotto passed to Kliek, who shot from outside the area, but the ball went over the bar and he lost this great chance. 34th minute: #7 passed to #11 who invaded the area and shot, but missed the goal and the ball went wide.

35th minute: #3 received a yellow card after fouling Heitor. Vandick took the free kick, the ball hit the post and #4 got the rebound. But Anormal took the ball back and shot, but missed the goal for few centimetres. 37th minute: Anormal passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled two defenders before shooting to score the goal. 1x0.

After the goal, Cafundéu seemed more concentrated and prepared to hold the result. Braddock guided the team to the perfect strategy and the team started to dominate the game. Choobie International tried to attack with all forces, but missed all the chances. #11 even received a yellow card after fouling Sávio Ferrari. 41st minute: #11 got the ball and shot, but Vargas saved twice.

43rd minute: Heitor received the ball from Ray Kirs. After the left-back entered in the area, he passed again to Kirs, who shot. The goalkeeper saved. Injury time: Kliek made a good play from the left and passed to Brahma. He held the ball for some seconds, dribbled a defender and shot with strength, but the ball went over the bar and he couldn’t score. After some chances, the referee ended the first half.

http://www.coritiba.com.br/inc/resize.php?w=399&h=249&arq=../imgdb/20062310174735962385.JPG
Choobie's supporters

To attack more, Choobie International’s coach changed #23 for #9 and #11 for #20. Braddock didn’t change Cafundéu’s team. The second half started with a more defensive Cafundéu and a desperated Choobie International, trying to score. 3rd minute: #20 ran from the left and passed to #9, but he was blocked by the defenders. 5th minute: Brahma received the ball and passed to Heitor, but his shot was weak and the defender could get the ball back.

6th minute: Kliek got the ball in the midfield, passed to Priotto. The midfielder dribbled an opponent and shot from outside the area. The goalkeeper tried to save, but the ball entered inside the goal. 2x0 Cafundéu. At that point, everybody thought that Cafundéu could easily win, but things changed after the 7th minute.

9th minute: #8 passed to #10, who dribbled a defender and passed the ball back to #8, who shot, but the ball hit the post and then Vargas got it. 12th minute: Brahma fouled #14 and received the yellow card. #8 took the free kick and the ball hit the post again. 16th minute: Cafundéu attacked with Anormal, who dribbled a midfielder and crossed to the area. Ganz Ijak headed but the goalkeeper saved.

Then, Braddock made a change in the team, putting Manuel Padaria in Brahma’s place to defend more. 19th minute: Manuel Padaria invaded the area and shot. The ball hit the bar and Kliek headed it, but the goalkeeper saved. 21st minute: Choobie International scored. #10 dribbled Sávio Ferrari and passed to #9, who shot and scored. 2x1.

24th minute: #9 came again with danger shooting the ball that went wide. 27th minute: Manuel Padaria passed to Ray Kirs, who made a good play in the left wing and shot. The defender blocked the path of the ball, but Anormal got the rebound and shot. The ball went over the bar. 30th minute: Vandick saw Becão outside the area and passed to him. He couldn’t shot and had to pass to Sávio Ferrari, who lost the ball.

31st minute: #14 started the counterattack passing to #10, but he was offside, losing a great chance to score. 35th minute: Braddock put Mercegues in Kliek’s place. After that, Vandick took a corner and Ganz Ijak headed, but missed the goal. Choobie grew in the match and Cafundéu was in danger. Braddock was very angry with his team, that let the opponents play. #4 received a yellow card after complaining.

38th minute: #7 tried to start a counterattack, but Ganz Ijak fouled him and received the yellow card. 39th minute: #8 crossed to #7, who shot without angle, but Vargas had some difficulty to save. 42nd minute: Mercegues tried to score in a long range shot, but missed the goal for a long distance.

44th minute: Cafundéu relaxed and let #9 invade the area. He shot and Vargas sent it for a corner kick. 46th minute: Already in the injury time, #7 took the corner and #10 fell inside the area, and the referee marked a penalty. #9 shot and scored in the last minute of the game. The referee ended the second half, so the game had to go to the extra time.

http://www.coritiba.com.br/inc/resize.php?w=399&h=249&arq=../imgdb/20062510153853937024.JPG
Image taken by a supporter

Both teams changed. Choobie International’s coach put #2 in #14’s place. Braddock put Cafézinho in Vandick’s place. The extra time started exciting, with many good chances for both teams. 2nd minute: #2 crossed to the area. #9 headed, but missed the goal. 6th minute: Manuel Padaria received the ball from Heitor and shot, but the goalkeeper could save and stop the attack.

8th minute: Cafézinho received a yellow card after fouling #9. 9th minute: #8 dribbled two defenders and shot, but Vargas could save. 11th minute: Ganz Ijak dribbled a defender and passed the ball to Heitor, who shot in the defender’s legs, but got the rebound and shot again, but sent the ball over the bar.

14th minute: #7 tried a long range shot, but sent the ball over the bar. The first half ended. 16th minute: Heitor created a good play for Mercegues, who shot. The goalkeeper couldn’t hold the ball and Mercegues shot again to score the goal. 3x2. Cafundéu’s supporters were delighted after the goal and started to commemorate, but the game wasn’t ended. Choobie International was still trying to score.

19th minute: #4 passed the ball to #20, who tried to shot from outside the area and missed the goal. 22nd minute: Cafundéu’s players started to hold more the ball waiting for the end of the match. Manuel Padaria even stopped the ball in the midfield waiting for an opponent to dribble, but he missed the ball, but the attacker couldn’t score.

26th minute: Heitor passed to Anormal who shot with strength. The ball hit the post. 30th minute: In a desperated move, #1 invaded the area and passed to #2. He crossed but the goalkeeper couldn’t head the ball. The referee ended the game and Cafundéu were qualified for the semifinals.

Midfielder Manuel Padaria said: “Another great result for us. We are looking forward to win the semifinals game and try to be the champions. This is possible, and we’ll fight for this.” Left-back Ray Kirs said: “Uff, a very difficult game, we didn’t imagine this. But we won and we’re ready for the next game.” Midfielder Priotto said: “Yes, we are playing well and I’m sure that we’ll play well again in the next game.”

The coach Franz Braddock liked the result, but didn’t comment very much: “All I want to say is that my players battled until the end and I like this. With this performances we can win the title and I want this. I want the title! Next game will be very difficult, since it’s vital for our campaign and because our enemies are a good team, but we’re very good too. All our players are disponible to play, and I’ll make some changes in the team. The team will be: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Mercegues and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. Ernesto Ijak returned and can stay in the bench. The style will start in a +1.5, but I can return to the original formation if things start to get worse.”

Cafundéu will use its yellow kit for the next game.

http://www.coritiba.com.br/inc/resize.php?w=399&h=249&arq=../imgdb/20062310174735856777.JPG
Dispute in the area

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick(Cafézinho), Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto, Brahma(Manuel Padaria) and Kliek(Mercegues); Heitor and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

CHOOBIE INTERNATIONAL: #1, #12, #3 and #4; #11(#20), #14(#2), #17, #23(#9) and #7; #8 and #10.
Coach: The coach.

GOALS: CAFUNDÉU: Ganz Ijak 37’ , Priotto 51’ , Mercegues 106’.
CHOOBIE I.: #9 66’/91’.

Cafundéu’s goalscorers:
7- Ganz Ijak
4- Heitor
2- Anormal, Kliek and Priotto
1- Kirs, Becão and Mercegues

To see the images just click on the links.

Counselor-Minister of Sports and President of the CCFM, Samuel Makas, visited the players and the coach:

MAKAS – I see that you’re doing an excellent work, Braddock. The players were great and the victory was well deserved.

BRADDOCK – Thank you, counselor. You’ll see the next games?

MAKAS – Of course I will. And I want to see you winning.

VARGAS – We’ll do our best to win. We know that we can do it.

MAKAS – Yes, and I have something here that you’ll like...

PRIOTTO – What is this? Maybe it’s beer or something to commemorate the victory!

MAKAS – No, Priotto. I’ll show what I have here, but you’ll only receive it when you defeat Noremark. If you lose, you won’t receive.

HEITOR – So, what is it? Go ahead and show us, we’re curious.

MAKAS – Here it is. A lot of MONEY!

GANZ IJAK – And you’ll give all this money to us?

MAKAS – This is a prize. If you defeat Noremark, I’ll give 50,000 vintems for each player that played the match and for the coach. The players that stayed on the bench will receive 20,000 vintems and the other members of the staff too. The goal scorers will receive 20,000 for each goal too.

ANORMAL – But if a Noremark’s defender scores an own goal?

MAKAS – Then nobody receives the money for the goal, of course. What do you think? I’ll spend a lot of money to see this team champion!

GANZ IJAK – But money won’t buy us. We play for pleasure and for honor, and we’ll give our best with or without money.

PRIOTTO – You’re saying it, not me. I would like to win this money... Okay, Makas, we’ll win this game for you and receive the money.

MAKAS – Excellent!

MALLANDRO – Wow! If we win, Makas will spend more than one million vintems!

MAKAS – Yes, but I have money, and I’ won’t regret to spend it on you.

BRADDOCK – If this is everything that you wanted to say, Makas, you can leave now. But I warn you, my players. Don’t play only because of the money. Play for our country and for the team too!

"We lost!"

"At last!"

"Does that mean we can talk about the team now. Do some of that RP stuff?"

"I suppose it does, yeah."

"But we lost. I really don't want to talk about it."

"Oh. Well... uh... don't then."

*The two TNHFA people just stare at each other. For ages.*

"Still, there's always the big cup finals to narrowly miss out on."

"Or get annihilated in. Either will do."

"Can't wait!"

Due to the delay in yesterday's scores I'm pushing todays scores back as well. They will come in around 7 hours, the same time as they came yesterday.

Here are the results for the Az-cz semifinal:

Cafundeu 4:2 Noremark

Cafundeu advances to the finals and Noremark proceeds to the third place match. Good luck to both teams there.

Spaam SemiFinal

Dumania 3:2 Snub Nose 39

There will now be around 48 hours from the posting of the results to the finals, to allow the teams to travel to the respective nations for the games - Az-Cz for the finals (Dumania vs Cafundeu) and 3rd place playoff (Snub Nose 39 vs Noremark).

http://www.romanianconsulate.com/images/footbal.jpg
Players celebrate the victory

(Darzog’s Tower, Az-Cz) – In a difficult game, Cafundéu could defeat Noremark and could reach the final. The stadium was filled with supporters of both countries and the level of the fooball was excellent. After 90 minutes of football, Cafundéu could commemorate and wait for the final, happy for the good result achieved.

The game was full of fast attacks, good saves and beautiful dribbles. The referee had a calm work, although 7 cards were shown, including a red card in the end of the game to Sávio Ferrari, who won’t play the final. The players will have some time to rest before the final game, and they’re preparing themselves for a good game.

THE GAME
Noremark started attacking since the start, using the centre of the field. Cafundéu tried to use more the wings with short passes and dribbling the opponents. 3rd minute: Wilkinson passed the ball to Stravik, who dribbled Sávio Ferrari and shot, but Vargas made a great save. 5th minute: Cafundéu had an attack with Ray Kirs, who crossed the ball from the left. Anormal headed, but the ball went over the bar.

8th minute: Malsen made a good play in the right side of the field and crossed to Aranosk, who, dribbled a defender and shot, but Vargas could easily save. 12th minute: Mercegues passed to Kliek, who created a good chance dribbling a defender and passing to Heitor in front of the goalkeeper. He tried to dribble Renimasje, but the goalkeeper could get the ball and Cafundéu missed the chance.

15th minute: Priotto took the ball from Krasentor and passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot, but the ball went over the bar. 18th minute: Anormal got the ball in the midfield and passed to Kliek. He saw Ray Kirs invading the area and passed the ball to him. Kirs shot the ball as soon as he received it, and scored a beautiful goal. 1x0.

20th minute: After suffering a goal, Noremark tried to attack. Solne made a long range pass directly to Ryhers. He tried to shot from outside the area, but he sent the ball wide. 22nd minute: Kanonen passed the ball to Aranosk, who dribbled a defender and shot, but Vargas was able to sent the ball for a corner. Malsen took the corner and Inkovik headed, but Becão saved with his head.

25th minute: Vandick ran in the right side of the field and passed to Mercegues. He crossed to the area and Becão headed, but Renimasje saved. 27th minute: Krasentor crossed the ball into the area, Wilkinson took it and shot. Sávio Ferrari blocked his path, but he shot again and this time Vargas saved the ball. 28th minute: Priotto received the yellow card after fouling Stravik.

30th minute: Priotto made a good play and passed to Heitor. The attacker dribbled Sasken and shot with strength, but the ball hit the post, and Solne got the rebound. 31st minute: Noremark created a counterattack with Solne, who passed to Ryhers. Ryhers shot, but the shot was weak and the defense cleared. 34th minute: Stravik got the ball and tried a long range shot, but he sent the ball over the bar.

38th minute: Heitor received the ball from Ray Kirs, and passed the ball to Ganz Ijak who was inside the area. He received and shot, but the goalkeeper could get the ball. 41st minute: Heitor got the ball again in the midfield. This time, he passed to Priotto who was being marked by Inkovik. So, Priotto passed to Anormal who shot from outside the area, and scored a goal. 2x0.

44th minute: Kanonen crossed the ball and Aranosk headed, the ball hit the post and Aranosk tried to score again shooting the ball, but this time he missed the goal. 45th minute: Kliek crossed the ball and Sávio Ferrari headed, but the ball went over the bar. Priotto wanted the ball in his head and became nervous. The first half ended.

http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1998/wc98_069.jpg
Brahma battling with the opponent player

Braddock put Ernesto Ijak in Priotto’s place, because Priotto wasn’t very well in the game. Noremark returned with two changes: Tronne in Ryhers’s place and Emerson in Krasentor’s place. Noremark returned in the second half wanting to score and attacking very much. Cafundéu looked surprised with the mentality change of the opponent and couldn’t react fast.

2nd minute: Tronne dribbled two players of Cafundéu before shooting the ball and sending it wide. 4th minute: Stravik crossed the ball and Wilkinson headed, but he sent the ball over the bar. 7th minute: Ganz Ijak received the ball and passed to his brother, Ernesto Ijak. He tried to shoot from ouside the area and missed the goal.

11th minute: Emerson took the ball from Kliek and crossed to Aranosk, who headed the ball. Vargas saved, but gave the rebound and this time Aranosk scored. 2x1. 14th minute: Sávio Ferrari received the yellow card after fouling Emerson. 15th minute: Malsen received the yellow card after fouling Ernesto Ijak.

18th minute: Tronne passed the ball to Aranosk, who dribbled a defender and made a good shot, but Becão hit the ball and it went wide. The corner kick was missed after Malsen tried to score directly from it. 20th minute: Braddock put Brahma in Kliek’s place. In his first minute, Brahma created a good chance to Mercegues, who shot and obligated the keeper to make a very good save.

23rd minute: Malsen took the ball from Ernesto Ijak and passed to Wilkinson, who dribbled Mercegues and was fouled. Mercegues received the yellow card. Tronne took the free kick and made a mistake passing to Anormal. 26th minute: Anormal took the ball from the midfielder and passed to the goalscorer Ganz Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot, but sent the ball wide and seemed very sad because of that.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/olmedia/910000/images/_910884_luxemburgo300.jpg
Franz Braddock talking with the team

28th minute: Emerson passed the ball to Kanonen who shot and score the goal. 2x2. After the goal, Cafundéu’s coach became angry and shouted a lot with his players, saying that they needed to play better and obligating them to do their best. 31st minute: Ganz Ijak dribbled a player and passed to Heitor, who dribbled two defender and shot, but the ball hit the post, and Cafundéu lost an excellent chance.

33rd minute: Brahma crossed the ball and Ernesto Ijak headedm scoring the third goal of Cafundéu in the match. 3x2. 35th minute: Sasken fouled Heitor and received the yellow card, after few seconds he left the game and Kastelit entered in his place. 36th minute: Kastelit passed the ball to Solne who passed the ball under the legs of Vandick. Aranosk got the ball and shot, but Vargas saved.

38th minute: Vandick ran in the right side of the field and crossed. Becão headed but the ball went over the bar. 41st minute: Anormal passed the ball to the left side of the field to Ray Kirs, who crossed and Ernesto Ijak again headed to score. 4x2. After these goals, Braddock seemed more calm and put Manuel Padaria in Heitor’s place to defend.

42nd minute: Inkovik received the yellow card after fouling Brahma. 44th minute: Sávio Ferrari fouled Wilkinson and received the second yellow card and the red card. But the game was nearly the end and Noremark couldn’t win. Cafundéu won and now is in the final, to play against Dumania. All the supporters, staff and players were very happy and excited by the good result.

Defender Vandick said: “Of course we’re very happy. We didn’t lose any game and now we reach the final! Now there’s only one game left for us to be the champions!” Goalkeeper Vargas also said: “You don’t know how much this title is important for us, and now we’re so close... the game against Dumania will be the most important of our lives!” And Ernesto Ijak said: “I returned now from an injury and score two goals! I’m very happy. Let’s win the final and lift the trophy.”

But Ganz Ijak still wants to wait to commemorate: “We’re happy because of the good result, but we know that the final will be the most difficult game and we need to be prepared for that. Our opponent isn’t weak and we need to be cautious.” Coach Franz Braddock said: “I liked this game and we’re happy to reach the final, but there’s still one game ahead to be the champions, and we’ll have to play with all our forces. The team will be: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Ducas; Anormal, Priotto, Mercegues and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak. The style will be +1.5 again, but we can change it depending on the result, of course.”

http://www.cnnsi.com/soccer/world/events/1998/worldcup/news/1998/06/15/romania_colombia_final/wc_celebrate_ap.jpg http://www.cnnsi.com/soccer/world/events/1998/worldcup/news/1998/06/30/croatia_romaina/t1_bilic_all.jpg
Both teams commemorating their goals

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick, Kirs, Becão and Sávio Ferrari; Anormal, Priotto(Ernesto Ijak), Mercegues and Kliek(Brahma); Heitor(Manuel Padaria) and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

NOREMARK: Renimasje, Sasken(Kastelit), Inkovik and Solne; Malsen, Krasentor(Emerson), Kanonen and Stravik; Ryhers(Tronne), Wilkinson and Aranosk.
Coach: Noren Yulenik.

GOALS: CAFUNDÉU: Kirs 18’ , Anormal 41’ , Ernesto Ijak 78’/86’.
NOREMARK: Aranosk 56’ , Kanonen 73’.

Cafundéu’s goalscorers:
7- Ganz Ijak
4- Heitor
3- Anormal
2- Kliek, Priotto, Kirs and Ernesto Ijak
1- Becão and Mercegues

PRIOTTO – Where is the counselor-minister? I want my money!

KIRS – Here is his helicopter. He is going back to the hotel. Is he fleeing?

BRADDOCK – No. He said me that he’ll pay you in the hotel tomorrow, and said to me that he has more surprises to show to you all tomorrow. Since we have more time to rest for the final than we had during the previous games, let’s go back to the hotel.

ERNESTO IJAK – Okay, I’ll go to the hotel. But I want my 150,000 vintems. I scored two goals, I deserve it.

BRADDOCK – Of course you deserve, and he’ll pay us all. I’ll win 50,000 too.

SÁVIO FERRARI – I received a red card, but I still want the money.

GANZ IJAK – Stop thinking about the money, let’s rest and prepare ourselves for the final, we’re not here for the money, we’re here for the title and for our country!

HEITOR – You’re right, Ganz. And anyway we’ll see Makas tomorrow.

MANUEL PADARIA – All right then, we’re waiting for this.

Nobody ever dreamed of this situation, Dumania in the final of the Batism of Fire. In one of the most dramatic games ever seen in Batism history the Dumanian team pulled threw to pull of a 3-2 Victory and here is a Summary of the match.

In the fith minute after a missed takkel from the replacement defender Jonny Cornelius the first goal came for the Snub Nose 39 team. but the goal didn't come easy because the goalie Quintin Taljaard put a good dive in but just couldn't stop it.

In the 30th minute the second goal for Snub Nose came from a own goal by the replacement goalie Danny Jordan who was on for Quintin Taljaard who was injured in the 20th minute by an low blow. After this half time came and everybody taught the gasme was tide up for Snub Nose But as they say it isn't over untill the fat lady sings.

In the 60th minute the first goal came for the Dumanian team When the ball was passed to Gerto Prinsloo quickly started dribbling and got threw the Snub defence and put a terrific cross in. Everybody taught the goalie was safely going to catch it when the lengthy Leon Leon came in for a marvoules header and the ball travelled into the corner of the net.

In the 90th minute with just seconds remaining the Dumanian midfielder Stephen Pennells made one of the strikes that we will remember for ages to cum when he got the ball and dodge one tackle and took a strike from the side of the field we all taught it was over but the ball dipped and totaly caught the Snub goalie offaurd because he tripped and fell and the ball travelled past him. And from this day on when somebody falls on the field we are going to say he got Snubd.

So the game went into extra time and the Dumanian Team didn't waste time by scoring quickly by a strike from Kent Pretorius going into the back of the net from the edge of the cirle.

GOAL SUMMARY
Leon Leon-1
Stephen Pennells-1
Kent Pretorius-1

Out of the Pan and Into the Fire

Report by Amy Bystander, Commonwealth News

The Fort Europe side have made a huge impact on this competition so far and will be overjoyed to have made it through to the Quater Finals of the competition. A calm, calculated victory against Anrow, a team resigned to their fate proved easy the Fort Europe team who fielded a number of their backup players to rest the others ahead of the next round. They will be dissapointed as ever not to have kept a clean sheet but the victory is still a victory regardless of how close it is.

PLAYER RATINGS
(out of 10)

8 - Ed Russell
7 - Laura Harris
8 - Tim Forrester (C)
7 - Mike Young
7 - Gemma Lloyd
7 - Vicky Princess
8 - Edowine Sanjuan (28)
7 - Andy Fletcher
8 - Will Jones
6 - Chris Lessinger (Injured (38))
8 - Josephine Blanchard

SUBS

- - James West
- - Murphy Lee
9 - Mia Nevola (On for Lessinger (38))(Pen 38)
- - Ryan Holmes
9 - Michelle Bishop (On for Blanchard (45)) (77)


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

Disaster

Some may congratulate Fort Europe for getting so far in this competition, the team however will look at this as a dismal disaster. As favorates to win at Slimes Stadium in the Quater Finals of the Baptism of Fire tournement, Fort Europe suffered one set back after the other as their opposition dominated the match from start to finish. The only real highlight in the game for the defeated team was Michelle Bishop's sixteen yard punt into the bottom right corner to record her tenth goal of the competition, surely securing her place as the tournements top goal scorer. The team and fans will return home after the final disapointed, but apprehecious of the upcoming NS World Cup. The team will also be back in time to play out their last two remaining games in The YoungWorld's football league, with a chance of breaking into the top three the prize at stake, and the Semi Final's of The YoungWorld League Cup to look forward to.


PLAYER RATINGS
(out of 10)

4 - James West
6 - Shaun Pearson []
5 - Tim Forrester (C)
5 - Murphy Lee
6 - Katherine Keller
5 - Gemma Lloyd []
6 - Ryan Holmes
5 - Andy Fletcher []
6 - Mia Nevola
6 - Michelle Bishop (38)
5 - Chris Lessinger []

SUBS

- - Ed Russell
6 - Aki Haddon (On for Pearson (45))
- - Vicky Princess
- - Edowine Sanjuan
6 - Del Jenkins (On for Lessinger (56))


GOAL SCORER TOTALS

10 - Michelle Bishop
4 – Mia Nevola
1 – Karl Isaak
1 – Vicky Princess
1 – Edowine Sanjuan

MAKAS - Well done, my players. A deserved money. 50,000 vintems for each one.

ANORMAL – Will we receive more if we win the final?

MAKAS – Of course. I’ll pay the double! I’m very interested in this victory. We’ll show the trophy to the people, it’ll increase the personal power of the emperor, and mine...

KLIEK – Now it’s very interesting. Winning a trophy will be very good. If we win a lot of money too, it’ll be great.

MALLANDRO – With this money I can buy a new house and maybe even a car!

GANZ IJAK – For me it doesn’t make any difference. I’ll try to win anyway.

HEITOR – Come on, Ganz. We’re not playing only because of the money, of course, we’re playing for our country too. But it isn't bad to win some money too, don't you think?

BECÃO – Heitor is right Ganz, everybody will play to win.

MERCEGUES – Yes, we won 6 games without winning prizes.

VARGAS – If we win, we’ll finish this championship without losing a game. We’ll make history. Let’s show the world that Cafundéu has a strong football national team.

BRADDOCK – That’s the spirit. I remember the old times when I was a player too. But now I’m a coach and this trophy will be very important to me.

MAKAS – I like to hear these comments. The whole country of Cafundéu is counting with you and are following the national team. It’s the last game.

Third Place Playoff
Artanis National Football Stadium
Snub Nose 39 0:2 Noremark

Baptism of Fire Final:

Cafundeu 0:1 Dumania

Congratulations to Dumania, the new Baptism of Fire champions.

http://img.terra.com.br/i/2006/03/25/323664-4679-ga.jpg
Mercegues attacking for Cafundéu

http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1998/wc98_032.jpg
Dumania celebrating

(Burlock Castle, Az-Cz) - After a very tough and physical game, Dumania could defeat Cafundéu with a simple win. The game was very close and difficult, but a goal in the start of the game decided the championship. There were few goal chances and the teams defended themselves well, but Dumania could reach the goal and won the game.

They commemorate much the victory. After the match, even Cafundéu's players commemorated the second place, which is a very good position too. The third placed team, Noremark, also participated in the party. After this championship, all the teams looked prepared for the international football and can become great football countries.

THE GAME
Cafundéu tried to attack in the first minutes of the game, but Dumania has a much solid defense and Cafundéu couldn't invade their area. The first chance of the match was in the 4th minute, when Heitor received the ball from Anormal and shot, but the goalkeeper was able to save. Dumania started to use its counterattacks and Cafundéu wasn't prepared for such a defensive style.

8th minute: Priotto dribbled a player and passed to Kliek. He ran, invaded the area and shot, but a defender blocked the ball. Ganz Ijak shot in the rebound, but he sent the ball over the bar. 10th minute: Dumania attacked with De Beer, who shot from outside the area and was near to score. The ball hit the bar and then left the field.

13th minute: Ganz Ijak lost the ball in the attack and fouled Albertein with violence. He received the yellow card. 15th minute: Kirs made a good play from the left and crossed to the area. Becão headed it, but he sent the ball over the bar and missed the chance. 18th minute: Prinsloo passed to Kruger, who crossed to the area. Van Vuuren headed and scored the goal. 1x0.

http://img.terra.com.br/i/2006/03/25/323658-1029-ga.jpg
Cafundéu's Incisivo thanks the supporters after the game

21st minute: Cafundéu tried to score with Heitor. The attacker received the ball in the right wing by Vandick, invaded the area and shot, but sent the ball wide again. 25th minute: Pretorius received a good chance from Pennells and shot, but the goalkeeper Vargas made a miracle and saved.

29th minute: Kliek made a good play from the left and passed to Ganz Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot. Tajlard made a great save. 32nd minute: Ferrera got the ball in the defense and sent to the attacker De Beer, but he was fouled by Mercegues, who received the yellow card. Joubert took the free kick, the ball hit the post and Ducas got the rebound.

35th minute: To control the violent game, the referee Jon Hesseffeldt had to use his yellow card two times in this minute. First to Heitor, who fouled Albertein, then to Joubert, who fouled Ganz Ijak. 37th minute: Anormal dribbled two defenders and shot from outside the area, but the keeper could sent it to a corner.

Vandick took the corner but the defense headed it to safety. 40th minute: Kirs made a good play from the left and passed to Kliek, who had difficulties to shot, so he passed to Ganz Ijak. He shot and the defense blocked him, then he shot the leg of the defender! The referee saw it and showed the red card to him.

42nd minute: Priotto received the ball in the midfield and shot from outside the area, but he sent the ball wide. 44th minute: Leon got the ball in the midfield, dribbled a defender and shot, but Vargas saved. Injury time: Joubert crossed the ball to Pretorius, who shot the ball. The ball hit the bar and then Vargas got it. The first half ended.

http://img.terra.com.br/i/2006/03/25/323669-8588-ga.jpg
Sad Cafundéu supporter

To the second half, Braddock put Ernesto Ijak in Mercegues's place and Pretorius put Van Der Waldt in Leon's place. Cafundéu started the second half trying to score anyway, but Dumania could defend well. With one player less, Cafundéu made the same mistakes of the first half and couldn't finish well its plays. The game was poorer than in the first half.

2nd minute: Ernesto Ijak received the ball inside the area and shot, but Albertein could block. Anormal got the rebound and shot again, but Tajlard made a good save. 6th minute: Confusion in Cafundéu's area. De Beer received and was fouled inside the area by Ducas. A penalty. Ducas received the yellow card.

Pretorius took the penalty kick and... Vargas saved! Dumania lost the biggest chance of the match, and Cafundéu still had chances to win the game. After this, Braddock put Incisivo in Priotto's place to attack even more. 10th minute: Heitor passed the ball to Ernesto Ijak. He dribbled a defender and passed to Incisivo, who shot, but Tajlard saved.

13th minute: Van Vuuren headed the ball inside the area and Vargas saved, but gave the rebound to Prinsloo, who shot and missed the goal. 16th minute: Van Der Waldt got the ball from Kliek and started the counterattack. De Beer received and shot, but the ball went over the bar.

20th minute: Vandick received the ball from Ray Kirs and ran in the right wing. He passed to Anormal, who tried a good long range shot and the goalkeeper had to make a great save. Then, Dumania's coach put Cornelius in De Beer's place, to defend even more. 22nd minute: Van Der Waldt fouled Ernesto Ijak and received the yellow card.

http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1998/wc98_045.jpg
Pretorius miss the penalty

26th minute: Pennells created a good goal chance dribbling three defenders, but was fouled by Vandick. He received the yellow card. Pennells was injured and Phoenix had to enter in his place. Braddock then put Brahma in Vandick's place. 28th minute: Brahma ran in the right wing and crossed to the area. Becão headed with strength, but he missed the goal.

32nd minute: Ray Kirs received the ball and passed to Incisivo, who dribbled a defender and passed to Heitor, but he was fouled. Ferrera received the yellow card. 35th minute: Heitor passed to Kliek, who dribbled a defender and shot, but the goalkeeper made a good save.

Then Dumania defended even more and Cafundéu couldn't even reach the goal anymore. The last chance was in the 41st minute, when Brahma passed to Ernesto Ijak, who dribbled a defender and shot, but the ball went wide. After some minutes, Hesseffeldt ended the match, and Dumania was the champion and Cafundéu the runner-up.

After the game, Franz Braddock said: "We lost, but if you see well, we had a wonderful campaign. We had the best record, we scored a lot of goals, and the second position was very good. Congratulations to Dumania, the champions and to Noremark, the third placed team. I would like to thank my players for their good work. I'll continue in the NT and I'm ready for more championships."

The defender Ducas said: "We lost, they defended their team well, what more can I say. I think that they did a good job and the second place wasn't bad. Now we'll go back to home and wait for the next championships." Midfielder Priotto said: "Yes, we lost and I won't receive any money. But we at least showed that we are a strong team."

http://www.paulistafutebol.com.br/new/fotos/11.jpg
Becão with the 2nd place trophy(2 hours after the game)

CAFUNDÉU: Vargas, Vandick(Brahma), Kirs, Becão and Ducas; Anormal, Priotto(Incisivo), Mercegues(Ernesto Ijak) and Kliek; Heitor and Ganz Ijak.
Coach: Franz Braddock.

DUMANIA: Tajlard, Albertein, Ferrera, Van Vuuren and Joubert; Prinsloo, Pennells(Phoenix) and Kruger; Leon(Van Der Waldt), De Beer(Cornelius) and Pretorius.
Coach: Neil Pretorius.

GOAL: DUMANIA: Van Vuuren 18'.

CCFM, representing Cafundéu's National Team, would like to thank all the supporters that travelled to Az-Cz(the country where we played all our games), you were very important for us and without you we could have gone to home early.

We would like to thank too our players and staff, for the excellent work that you did in this competition. It's not easy to defeat so many good teams, and this second place showed that Cafundéu has some strength in football. CCFM said too that will probably use the same 23 players and staff for the NS World Cup(changes only due to injuries).

And, to finish our thanks, we would like to thank the hosts and our opponents in this championship. We saw a wonderful football here. Now, we'll take this 2nd place trophy and put it in the emperor's personal room.

The president of CCFM(now more rich because of this competition)
Counselor-Minister Samuel Makas

There isn't much to say but we are very happy for being the Baptism Of Fire Champions. But we would like to congratulate Cafundeu on a great game and also to Noremark for putting up a great fight in this tournament. thank you to al our supporters for being there for us threw the tough and happy times.

YES YES WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS