Arifiyyah

The Response
 
10:08 hrs, Ryxtylopian Time (Auran Standard Time IAT-1)
Guilchabó, chief of the department of security awaited silently the report in his office, luckily for him the situation with the protests was dying down, and only a few press outlets had even reported on the situation, however the damage to the people had already been done, with hundreds being hospitalized, and that was in Ryxenia alone, many other cities had the unrest spread to them, however the quick actions of security forces had dispersed most crowds that were able to assemble, besides it was a match day; Ryxtylopia would face Larxia, a tough opponent today, that meant many people would be distracted gathering in the stadiums, and public places to watch the match.
But that wasn't to say the unrest had stopped, also whilst domestically the press was under control, there was still uncertanty about the international response to the situation, the goverment had to at least SAY something, since silence would probably only turn it worse, as people would seek their own responses.
Gilchabó had already ordered the police to not let foreign press into the areas with unrest or the poorer part of towns, telling the men on the ground to: "If necessary drag them back into the stadiums where they should be." that could be bad but would prevent more coverage on the protests, the biggest concern of the government being the protesters gaining sympathy abroad, that could end in a more globe-wide movement against the state something Gilchabó didn't want to risk considering his job, and more importantly; his salary could be on the line.
 
However as he thought, an assistant knocked on the door of his office, to hand over a printed report of injuries:
 
 
 
CITY Reported Incidents Civilian Casualties Police Casalties Ryxenia 34 476 Confirmed Injuries
>200(?) Unconfirmed Cases
2(?) Fatalities
47 Injuries
Vynitiná 14 190 Confirmed Injuries
~200-300(?) Unconfirmed Injuries
33 Injuries Pinilaca 10 78 Confirmed Injuries
~150 Unconfirmed Injuries
17 Confirmed Injuries
~10 Unconfirmed Injuries
Tilipaca 7 56 Confirmed Injuries
~76-110(?) Unconfirmed Injuries
22 Injuries Tsalapaní 3 17 Confirmed Injuries
~40 Unconfirmed Injuries
4 Confirmed Injuries
~4 Unconfirmed Injuries
 
After giving the report a good read, Gilchabó heads to his computer an old one on his desk, and sends an email to his assistant to get ready to publish a statement on the matter, not on behalf of the Department of Security, but on behalf of the goverment, marking the email as urgent, and hoping for the bureocratic process to not be too long.
 
Roughly 4 hours later...
14:18 hrs, Ryxtylopian Time (Auran Standard Time IAT-1)
 


Gobyrno di la Fidiraxión di Ryxtylopia
Government of the Ryxtylopian Federation
 
Present - Sunday, November 19th of the year 1423.
This is an OFFICIAL STATEMENT, conducted by the Ryxtylopian government, directed to all foreign governments and international press.
 
This document is designed to recognize the events that have ocurred throught the last week (12th to 19th of November of the year 1423), said events being civil unrest throught the nation focusing on the capital; Ryxenia, and other major cities including:
Vynitiná
Pinilaca
Tilipaca
Tsalapaní
Said unrest has been caused due to the realization of the III World Cup of Football, an event that in the year 1423 is being held in Ryxtylopia, this event had stirred unrest from the populace due to Political Reasons, and agitators have spread the unrest throught the country, putting at risk not only the integrity of the Ryxtylopian state but the integrity of the tournament and foreign lives in Ryxtylopia.
Therefore we ask foreigners to be careful and read information about the situation via statements like this or by visiting the government website: [Insert Generic Government Website.gov].
The government of the Ryxtylopian Federation, as well as internal state organisms mainly, the Department of Internal Security, are doing efforts to controll the unrest and prevent casualties due to the incitation of violence by opposition figures and other "troublemakers".
To prevent the spreading of violence to other areas we STRONGLY RECOMMEND foreign media outlets, as well as state-owned outlets to NOT REPORT ON THE SITUATION as this may only incite further violence, and could result in further casualties.
 
As per casualties - There have been a reported 70 civilian injuries and 25 police injuries. To our knowledge, no foreigners, including tourists press, etc, have been injured, and the police response has been ADEQUATE, when it comes to the CONTAINMENT of the unrest. Protesters and Rioters have STARTED the crisis by using extreme violence against the police and security forces present at the start of the unrest forcing further measures to be taken to ensure the safetey of other civilians.
 
We assure everybody, this situation is under controll, and the Department of Internal Security is doing everything in its power to contain the unrest which at the present day is on the decline, we've already made recommendations to foreigners and media within this document but for more info please visit: [Insert Generic Government Website.gov].

 
The response was perhaps not what many would have liked... it massivley understated the ammount of casualties, and didn't address the cases of missing people, but to Gilchabó it was good enough, as the missing cases could be written off as "normal" by the government, and if they stated the real ammount of casualties it would have only multiplied the unrest.
Gilchabó had already a pretty busy day after the president parted for the airport to catch a short flight on his private Jet to Pinilaca were once at the airport he had been received by an angry crowd.
For now the response would do, after all with the second day of matches about to start, public attention would be elsewhere...

In the darkened entrance tunnel, moments before the match...
"Nelson, mate, turkey for Thanksgiving? It's like watching paint dry. Bland, dry, and utterly forgettable," Nelson quipped, his words sharp and to the point. His dark eyes gleamed with a hint of mischief as he leaned against the tunnel wall.
Christian shot back with a grin, his quick-witted retort hanging in the air like a challenge. "Nelson, you've got it all wrong, sunshine. Thanksgiving is about tradition, and turkey is the undisputed heavyweight champ of the holiday table. Versatility, my friend! You can roast it, fry it, smoke it – it's the triple threat of festive fowl."
The banter continued, a rapid-fire exchange echoing the patter and rhythms of a Ray Gitchie film.
"Versatility? It's a damn bird, Christian, not a Recuecian Army knife. I'd rather have a tradition of enjoying my meal. How 'bout we spice it up with some chili or throw in some jerk chicken for a real celebration?" Nelson countered.
But Christian, leaning in with a conspiratorial air, explained the beauty of a well-cooked turkey like a seasoned football coach detailing a winning strategy. "Nelson, you're missing the point, my man. Thanksgiving is about coming together, sharing a meal that screams 'Braya. Turkey embodies that spirit, and it's like a culinary handshake with history."
Nelson chuckled, his grin widening. "'Braya, huh? I'd rather be shaking hands with a plate full of flavor. Our Adaikian brothers got it right with their hearty stews and savory pies. Now, that's a celebration on a plate."
"Fair play, Nelson, but when you're savoring your exotic feast, just remember the warm embrace of a perfectly roasted turkey. It's a classic, like a vintage scotch or a well-placed penalty kick," Christian remarked with a knowing grin.
Nelson, smirking in response, shot back, "Classic, huh? I'll stick to being a maverick in the culinary arena. Let's just hope our performance on the pitch today is more exciting than this banter."

With a nod of mutual respect, the players exchanged a competitive glance before heading towards the pitch, leaving their Thanksgiving meal debate hanging in the air like the prelude to a high-stakes match.

Teralyon Suffers Narrow Defeat to Giovanniland in Thrilling World Cup Clash
By Anja Suremic, Teralyon Sports Analyst
ISTADIO RAQUIVAS, RYXTYLOPIA — In a heart-stopping showdown at Istadio Raquivas, Teralyon's national football team faced a bitter 1-0 defeat against Giovanniland during the 3rd World Cup hosted in Ryxtylopia. The tension in the air was palpable as both teams fought valiantly on the pitch, but ultimately, it was Giovanniland who emerged victorious, leaving Teralyon supporters disheartened but proud of their team's efforts.
The lone goal of the match was netted by Giovanniland's star striker in the 67th minute, breaking the deadlock and sealing Teralyon's fate. The resilient defense on both sides and the exceptional goalkeeping made it a nail-biting contest until the final whistle echoed through Istadio Raquivas.
Teralyon's coach, Isabella Mirovic, expressed her disappointment but commended the team's performance. "It was a tough match, and we gave it our all. Giovanniland played exceptionally well, and we'll learn from this experience and come back stronger," she stated during the post-match press conference.
As Teralyon licks its wounds from the defeat, speculation is rife among sports analysts and passionate fans in Tarajevo regarding the team's upcoming crucial match against Peourouin at Istadio Gral. Tavara Diparti. The anticipation is heightened as Teralyon aims to bounce back and secure a spot in the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Renowned sports analyst, Pero Javic, believes that Teralyon has the talent to overcome the setback against Giovanniland. "The team exhibited great skill and coordination despite the loss. With a few adjustments, they can certainly turn the tables in the upcoming match against Peourouin," Rodriguez commented on a popular sports talk show.
Regular sports enthusiasts from Tarajevo echoed Javic's sentiments, expressing confidence in the team's ability to regroup and deliver a stellar performance against Peourouin. Social media platforms were abuzz with discussions, with fans sharing their predictions and rallying behind the national team.
"Go Teralyon!! Our teams shown resilience before, and I'm confident they'll make us proud against Peourouin," said Sofia Karadzic, a fervent supporter from Tarajevo.
The clash against Peourouin at Istadio Gral. Tavara Diparti is now a do-or-die situation for Teralyon. The nation holds its breath as the team prepares to face another formidable opponent in the quest for World Cup glory. Only time will tell if Teralyon can rise above adversity and secure a triumphant comeback on the global stage.
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Teralyon's 7th Naval Fleet Reinforces Security Commitment in the Mille-Mer Sea
By Davor Dalmatia, Teralyon Defense Correspondent
STARI DOMA NAVAL BASE, TERALYON — In a strategic move aimed at reinforcing regional security and fortifying alliances, Teralyon has deployed its formidable 7th Naval Fleet from the Stari Doma Naval Base to the Mille-Mer Sea. The deployment, conducted in collaboration with allied nations Cambria and United Adaikes, underscores Teralyon's unwavering commitment to maintaining stability in the vital maritime region.
The Mille-Mer Sea, a key nexus of international trade routes, has witnessed increased geopolitical tensions in recent months. In response to emerging challenges, Teralyon's 7th Naval Fleet, equipped with state-of-the-art naval assets and personnel trained for diverse maritime operations, is poised to contribute significantly to the region's security architecture.
Rear Admiral Elena Petrovic, the commander of the 7th Naval Fleet, emphasized the importance of the deployment during a press briefing at Stari Doma Naval Base. "Our mission is clear: to safeguard the maritime interests of Teralyon and our allies, promote stability in the Mille-Mer Sea, and ensure the free flow of commerce through these vital waters," she stated.
The Teralyon 7th Naval Fleet's deployment has garnered positive responses from regional leaders and defense analysts. Analyst Sofia Milosevic noted, "The strategic positioning of Teralyon's naval assets, combined with collaborative efforts with allies, enhances the overall maritime security architecture in the Mille-Mer Sea. This proactive approach sends a powerful message of deterrence to potential disruptors in the region."
As the 7th Naval Fleet sets sail to patrol the Mille-Mer Sea, the international community will be closely watching the collaborative efforts of Teralyon, Cambria, and United Adaikes to maintain peace and stability in this critical maritime expanse. The joint commitment to security reflects the shared values and determination of these allied nations to safeguard the prosperity and well-being of the region.

Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical Releases Statement on Potential Legal Action Regarding Espionage of GlucovanceX
Saint Aiaden, November 18 1423 - Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical, a leading biotech company specializing in medical innovation, issues this statement in response to recent allegations of industrial espionage and the misuse of advanced AI decryption tools affecting our groundbreaking diabetes medication, GlucovanceX.
Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical is actively considering legal action against the government for its alleged interference in encrypted communications and unauthorized access to critical trade secrets. The situation raises concerns about the potential compromise of our intellectual property, constituting a breach of trust and infringement upon our rights.
Our internal team is diligently assessing the extent of the potential damage to GlucovanceX's proprietary information. The use of AI decryption tools in this alleged espionage adds complexity to the matter, requiring thorough examination by national and possibly international arbitrators.
Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical is committed to transparency, ethical practices, and safeguarding our intellectual property rights. Before formalizing any legal action, we will conduct an extensive internal investigation to evaluate the situation comprehensively.
Partners in the pharmaceutical industry is closely monitoring these developments, anticipating potential implications for the intersection of technology, government, business, and private entities' rights.
Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical has engaged legal representation and is prepared to address the alleged misuse of AI decryption tools in what may become an unprecedented legal proceeding.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Melanie Gorges
Senior Public Relations Specialist
Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical
publicrelations@wap.nb
About Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical
Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical is a pioneering biotech company dedicated to breakthroughs in medical science. With a commitment to innovation and improving global health, Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical strives to deliver cutting-edge solutions to address unmet medical needs.
Disclaimer
This press statement contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations and beliefs. These statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Woolrey-Arnold Pharmaceutical undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

 

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

A GOOD START
Good day to all football fans! Orangutan Rangers got their first win through a single goal by Muhammad Nazhim in the 70th minute.

 
 
 
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
Reporter: Congratulations sir on your first win. Can we hear your opinion about this match?
Mikel: Yes, thank you. The match was quite intense, everyone played well, including the opposing team. I would like to commend the fair play by the opposing team and we apologize for the tackle made by our defenders. The injuries do not appear to be serious but it is hoped that everything will be fine.
Reporter: Question for HRH Nazim, how do you rate the performance of you and your teammates?
Nazhim: Everyone is ok, but I believe we could give more. About myself, I can't rate myself but you guys can. And I hope for the next match everyone will give our all in every game.
Reporter: So coach, what comments can you share for the match against Dalimbar?
Mikel: Positive. The squad is always ready, we want to chase the first position in the group stage. We also expect a good game from the opponent, however we will overcome their greatness and win this game.

MIKEL ARTERY 
 
The Orangutan Rangers will facing Dalimbar FA on Monday,20 November 1423 10 am Arifiyyah Standard Time

WORLD FOOTBALL IS BACK!
After nearly two weeks of training camp in the capital, the Orangutan Rangers squad is expected to prepare for the third edition of the Esferos World Cup that will take place in Ryxtylopia. "The national squad has shown excellent performance in the last edition, and this year, we have the opportunity to bring the Cup home to our home. It is my hope and that of all Arifians that all the players will play hard for the country," said youth and sports minister Dato Isma. His Majesty Sultan Arif has also agreed to sponsor two planes for the supporters.
 
Reporter: Good day everyone! I, Ahmad Maslan, Arifiyyah's Times sports reporter reporting from Ryxtylopia. I am now with the manager of the Arifiyyah FA team, Mr. Mikel Artery. So sir, what is your reaction to the teams you will face?
 Manager: We never underestimate any team through the ranking, and we expect a challenge from all teams. We will also give our best to bring home the championship in this edition.
Reporter: Next we have our team captain,HRH Muhammad Nazhim, what are your comments for this edition of the world cup? 
Captain: Yes, we are always ready and looking ahead. We are here fighting to carry the trust and hope of millions of Arifians. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to thank the host for providing the best facilities for us to practice. 
Reporter: Thank you. So, that's it for now, let's back to the studio.
 

ARIFIYYAH WILL FACING AUKERA IN THE 1ST MATCHDAY OF GROUP D

THE SQUAD ARRIVED AT THE RYX AIRPORT

MUHAMMAD NAZHIM (MIDDLE) WITH  AMAR KHALID(RIGHT) AND SYAMER(LEFT) AT THE TRAINING CAMP
 

The end of day 1
 
People packed into the Rivalda, practically filling up to capacity for the game between Ryxtylopia and Kalmach, “the colossus” preparing to see Ryxtylopia’s first match at home.
As per usual with matches involving Ryxtylopia, fans of both teams weren’t allowed to sit in the same areas, the stadium was subdivided, and most of these subdivisions went to Ryxtylopia considering they would have most of the guests, with removable metal fences separating both sides and each subdivision to prevent fights from breaking out.
After both national anthems played, the locals kicked off, starting off slightly cautiously, but after a gap opened up in the opponent's defense the ryxtylopian players took to attacking, with a pass from M. Larista reaching A. Fydó who was able to send the ball cleanly into the right side of Kalmach’s goal in the 2nd minute, as the Rivalda exploded with the word “GOOOOOOOOOL!”
That meant Ryxtylopia was 1 up in the 2nd minute, expectations were high however from here as the kalmachians kicked off the game lost momentum, and it became both sides constantly fighting for the ball, with the ryxtylopians attempting to get the kalmachians to make a mistake to be able to attack, while their opponents put pressure on the midfield without being able to get into the backline.
In the 37th minute, Fydó got a pass from R. Dipartí taking the ball all the way into the box, where he attempted to shoot but the ball went over the post.
Just before break in the 44th minute, Fydó took the ball and tried finding someone to head it in, he passed it to Larista in the box, but Larista missed the header, the ball heading for M. Vilaní who was unprepared for the ball, expecting a bounce; Vilaní shot with his weak foot, sending the ball on a low angle to be easily catched by Kalmach’s GK, Meikal Schkridt.
After 2 minutes of added time, the whistle blew signaling half time as both sides headed to rest, and fans headed for more snacks and replenishments.
For the second time it mostly remained the same, however after some changes Kalmach was able to get back on the game, as ryxtylopia made fewer attempts on goal, the last one being a long shot N. Farris on the 54th minute that got easily intercepted by Schkridt.
On the 67th minute however after several attempts to get through the midfield Kalmach was able to exploit a missed pass by P. Arvaléz and get through into the backline, where E. Rivas failed a slide tackle and E. Vilaña was too slow to respond, as the ball went and bounced off the post into the net on top of Franco Arvaldí’s Head, at the 67th minute.
After that the stadium felt silent as the ball once again kicked off, Kalmach immediately going on the attack and getting past the strong Ryxtylopian midfield, however this time around the 70th minute Vilaña intercepted a ball headed for the box and cleared it away.
Ryxtylopia had their last chance of the game around the 81rst minute when Vilaní received a good pass from Farris and passed it to Fydó who had his ball blocked by one of the kalmash defenders.
Kalmach continued with the pressure until their last chance in the 90+1rst minute during the 3 minutes of stoppage time, when they received a corner kick, but shot to the net but defender E. Guivéz deflected the ball towards the midfield, where the match ended 1-1.
Fans left the stadium, the game was sort of intense but many were disappointed by not winning their first game at home, the game exposed however how loud “The Band” was, with the whole Rivalda singing almost in unisense with several songs, as fans stayed right up until the end of the match.
 

 
From the best known song; Adilentí Ryxtylopia! to Biutre Ródeado, and insults at the federal police, flags and banners everywhere and the fireworks and singing at the start, the match probably had the best atmosphere during that day.
But the players didn’t celebrate, as they got ready to train the next day, as their next match would be against a team that beat them 4-1 in the previous competition, almost condemning the last team to fall in the groups, and previous finalists: Larxia.
 

[OOC Context Note: Broadcast the day before Match Day 1.]

Melanie: From SPOT Studios in the heart of Cangham, we bring you the inaugural Football World Cup Preview, presented by Ping AI. I’m Melanie Soft, and I’m joined today by my colleague Weston Hall.
Weston: Greetings!
Melanie: Over the next two hours, we’re going to be breaking down the minutiae of the third Football World Cup in Ryxtylopia, and how your very own Overthinkers National Team is preparing. But first, let’s start with the basics. Weston, many of our viewers may be new to the World Cup, how would you explain the tournament in simple terms?
Weston: It really is quite simple, Melanie. Twenty-four teams of gladiators have entered the arena seeking the title and international glory. These teams are comprised of the mightiest champions of the countries they respectively represent. In the interest of narrative, these teams must prove themselves against each other in a series of matches before entering the yet-more-competitive knockout stage.
Weston: To prove themselves thus, teams have been assigned to four groups, each more or less evenly matched in skill to one another, but representing a wide range of skill within each group. Teams shall earn favor with the lords of the tourney by winning matches against their group, or a lesser amount of favor by tying. After each team has tested themselves against every other team in the group, the four teams most favored shall enter into the knockout stage.
[Melanie is smiling at the camera, but the pain behind her eyes is obvious.]
Weston: In the knockout stage, the stakes become higher. Each of these battles becomes a do-or-die situation for our gladiators. The victors live to fight another day, the losers will board a plane back home. We proceed from sixteen to eight, then to four, then finally to the last two teams remaining, who shall fight to claim the World Cup trophy.
Melanie: Great! Now, let’s introduce you to what teams are playing. We start with Group A, which includes Overthinkers.
[Graphic of Group A teams appears onscreen.]
Melanie: Notably, this group includes the hosts, Ryxtylopia, but also includes Larxia, one of the top 5 ranked teams in international play. Besides Larxia, the teams in this group are all either unranked or within 5 ranks of one another, meaning that at least on paper, anything can happen in this group.
Weston: Truly, this field was designed to give all a sporting chance, all the better for Overthinkers to improve upon their showing in the last World Cup.
Melanie: For the sake of brevity, I agree.
[Melanie runs through the remaining groups, with occasional interjections by Weston. Notably, Weston is thrilled by the uncertainty over whether Sasha of the Dalimbari team is a bear.]
Melanie: Now, before we go to break, we’ve asked our “special analyst” some questions in advance and gotten some prognostications. Let’s hear from our sponsor, Ping AI. Hey Ping, given the teams listed, who will win the World Cup?
Ping: Saint Mark.
Melanie: Interesting! Can you elaborate?
Ping: Because I said so.
Melanie: Great! We’ll be right back after the break to introduce you fully to your Overthinkers National Team.
[ad break]
[Coming out of the ad break, a hype video plays. Generic rock song plays as highlights and photos of OT players flash on screen, introducing each member of the starting lineup. It then ends with the Football World Cup graphic.]
Melanie: And we’re back with the Football World Cup Preview, presented by Ping AI. We’re taking a look now at our starting lineup.
[A graphic of the full team roster appears on screen.]
Melanie: Eight of last year’s starting eleven return this year, and two of last year’s reserves are starters this year. Altogether, there’s seven players making their World Cup debut, including Jeri M. Anders, who landed a starting role at forward.
Melanie: To truly get to know these players, let’s talk to someone who has been on the world stage with many of them before. We’re joined in the studio by Ian Reid, who is missing this World Cup due to injury. Ian, I know you’d rather be in Ryx with the team, but welcome to the studio.
Ian: Pleasure’s all mine, Melanie.
Melanie: So you’ve seen our roster for this year. Anything that immediately catches your eye here?
Ian: I said after our elimination last year that we had all the ingredients for success, but we weren’t prepared to execute. Seeing so many of the same people here, now with World Cup experience, I can only imagine we’re ready to grind.
Ian: I’ll call out Max Hamilton, here, my replacement. He was a reserve last year, got some play time in, but since then he’s really stepped up his game. He would have given me a run for the starting job even if I were healthy. I think he’s every bit as good as Elle and Ryan in the backfield.
Ian: Jeri, too. Even younger than Lukas and fully earned that starting job next to him. I spend some time at Highland this year and really liked what I saw from her and from that whole program. We’ve got some great younger players coming out of these smaller clubs that can only go up from here.
Weston: The youths also stir the hearts of the nation, displaying some spectacular showmanship on the field that deviates from the team’s normal, reserved strategy.
Ian: Yeah, and I’m torn on that, frankly. These younger players try to be flashy, they try to be heroes, and seeing Lukas go off last year only inflated their egos. This is Coach Luigi’s team, he wants you to defend the ball and score safely. Hopefully he can temper some of that recklessness.
Melanie: While the starters have a lot of experience, the reserves are majority newcomers to international play. What do you make of that?
Ian: They’re new to international play, but they’re not new to football. Petra and Stephen have three rings between them. Joy played for a long time at West and is accustomed to the rise and grind that this team plays. If they can shake off the nerves early, they’ll be just fine.
Melanie: Love it. Thanks for joining us today, Ian, and hope you can get back to the pitch soon.
Ian: Myself and my doctors have differing opinions on that. Cheers.
Melanie: Before we go to break, we have another question for our sponsor, Ping AI. Hey Ping, who will be the Overthinkers team MVP this World Cup?
Ping: Chris Peterson.
Melanie: Chris isn’t playing this year.
Ping: Chris Peterson.
Melanie: O-kay, stay tuned. After the break, we got a moment with the Overthinking team after they touched down in Ryxenia.
[ad break]
Weston: Welcome back, dear viewers, to the Football World Cup Preview, presented by the incomparable Ping AI. We’d lose our jobs if we actually used this product at SPOT, but that’s our problem, not yours.
Melanie: Ahem. Yes. Earlier this week, the Overthinkers National Team departed from Cangham International Airport and arrived in Ryxenia, the capital of Ryxtylopia. Once the team got through customs, we caught up with them in transit to their lodgings. Let’s hear now from field correspondent Emily Corral.
Emily [voiceover as B-roll plays]: The Overthinkers National Team has arrived in Ryxenia for the third Football World Cup. The city is warm and vibrant, and the streets are lined with football fans, thrilled to have an event of this significance on their home turf.
[Half of a protest sign comes into frame before the scene abruptly changes.]
Emily [now on-camera]: We’ve gotten exclusive access to the team bus as the team travels to one of Ryxenia’s finest hotels. I’m here standing next to Ray Chang, one of the veterans of this team. Ray, how was your trip?
Ray: It was just fine. We all thought the plane ride was shorter than expected, and when we got off, we were surrounded by some of the finest architecture we had ever seen. Like, completely blown away by how beautiful and grandiose everything was. But it turned out we had actually landed in Saint Mark. Our plane had an instrument issue that needed fixing. So by the time we got here to Ryxenia it was…
[Ambassador von Edelgard peeks out from the seat back behind Ray.]
Ray: ...also pretty great. You can tell there’s a lot of money in this place.
[von Edelgard recedes.]
Emily: I see. We now have Coach Wendell Luigi right here. Coach, how is the team feeling after the trip?
Coach: They’re ready to roll. It was a pretty smooth trip, despite the interruption. We’re all super locked in and ready to get practicing.
Emily: Now Coach, we haven’t had a chance to talk to you since Lucille Lyons resigned from the team at the last minute and then dropped off the map. Has there been any impact from that on the team?
Coach: I can’t speak from the players, they’re each dealing in their own way. All I have to say on the matter that’s fit for TV is, you picked a fine time to leave us, Lucille. But we were able to get George called up to fill her slot. The kid’s ecstatic—you can tell it’s a dream come true for him. I want to focus on the positivity of that.
Emily: Understood. You guys are playing Alchera in the first match. Are there any particular strategies you have for them?
Coach: Not particularly. They’re a solid team, we’re about evenly matched from what I saw last year. We will go out there and play our game, and make them play our game too. And we’ll adjust from there.
Emily: Larxia is far and away the strongest team in Group A. Do they give you any concern?
Coach: We only have to worry about them once before the knockouts. We’ll try our hardest, but we’re giving our all in every game.
Emily: Thanks for your time, Coach.
[Cut back to studio.]
Melanie: Thanks, Emily. Now, one more question for our sponsor, Ping AI. Ping, what World Cup team has the potential to be a dark horse this year?
Ping: Kalmach.
Melanie: Good call! Why is that?
Ping: Because I said so.
[ad break]

 

Results of the 1st Match Day of the Group Stage
Group A Ryxtylopia 1–1 Kalmach Larxia 1–1 Rivalfiume Overthinkers 1–0 Alchera (NPC) Group A Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Overthinkers 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 2 Kalmach 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 Larxia 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 Rivalfiume 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 Ryxtylopia 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 6 Alchera (NPC) 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0 Group B Cambria 4–3 Peourouin United Adaikes 1–0 Sekiya Giovanniland 1–0 Teralyon Group B Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cambria 1 1 0 0 4 3 +1 3 2 Giovanniland 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 United Adaikes 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 4 Peourouin 1 0 0 1 3 4 −1 0 5 Sekiya 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0 Teralyon 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0 Group C Nieubasria 4–0 Ionia Fujai 1–0 Candelu Hertfordshire and Jammbo 0–0 Saint Mark Group C Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Nieubasria 1 1 0 0 4 0 +4 3 2 Fujai 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 3 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 Saint Mark 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 5 Candelu 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0 6 Ionia 1 0 0 1 0 4 −4 0 Group D Arifiyyah 1–0 Aukera Dalimbar 1–0 Pedandria Zoran 2–1 Libterraria (NPC) Group D Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Zoran 1 1 0 0 2 1 +1 3 2 Arifiyyah 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 Dalimbar 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3 4 Libterraria (NPC) 1 0 0 1 1 2 −1 0 5 Aukera 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0 Pedandria 1 0 0 1 0 1 −1 0

Fujai
Folkskommunarna Fujai (fu:'jaɪ, foo-yEYE) is a small coastal nation of just over 7 million residents, located in the north of the Polari continent. While winter sports and rugby are the most popular in the country, Fujai has a long footballing tradition, beginning near the end of the 14th century, when the game was brought north by the Cambrians.
The Landslag
The Landslag is made up of the finest players in Fujai, though few would be considered of truly international quality. It is sponsored by Fujais Fotbollforbund (FjFF), a member of Fujais Idrottsforbund (FIF - Sports Federation of Fujai). Most Landslag players come from Fujai's top league, Fyrstserien, though a few come from the second division, Annarserien, and one comes from a university team. While Fujansk clubs are more equal in skill than the average league, the four most dominant teams, the Feme Store, are Solbakken IL and Bruland IF from the capital of Keiserholde, Allmein IL from Rønnøn, GIF Tåkstad from Tåkstad, and Trondsnes FF from Strafsund.
Recently, the Landslag has, against the odds, managed to stay near the upper tier of international footballing in recent years, including fourth place at the Saint-Josalyn Esferiad, fifth place at the 1st WCF, and fifth at the Quoriv-Kharventhin Esferiad. Will they be able to break their streak and finally make a podium appearance? Only time will tell.
Fujais Idrottsforbund
Fujais Idrottsforbund (FIF) is the federation of labor unions representing all sports players and workers in sports-associated industries. It is separate from the Fujansk government, but receives accreditation and financial and infrastructural support from it. Its structure includes clubs at the local level (e.g. a local sports club), which are constituents of fylke organizations, which are a part of the larger federation representing specific sports (e.g. Fujais Fotbollforbund for football), which are then members of FIF.
Fujais Fotbollforbund
Fujais Fotbollforbund (FjFF) is the labor union that governs football in Fujai and represents all players, related workers, and clubs in the country. It governs Fujai's league system, consisting of Fyrstserien, Annarserien, Tredjeserien, and the landsdel leagues. Fylke leagues and lower are organized by the the fylke organizations.
 
                 
 
Important Notes (!)
Editor's note on gender: Fujansk culture does not have individual gender categories. The five common genders were historically recognized, though categories and classifications of gender expression have broken down in the last few centuries, resulting in today's non-categorical perception of gender. Since the Fujansk language does not have gendered pronouns, most Fujar choose choose to use gender-neutral pronouns when interacting in the common tongue, such as they/them. All players on the Landslag use they/them pronouns in the common language.
Translator's note: Landslaget translates to "The National Team," while Landslag translates to "National Team." In the common tongue, one would say "the Landslag did well" or "Landslaget did well," not "the Landslaget did well" (the translated equivalent of "the The Landslag did well"). This is because the Fujansk language uses suffixes to create definite nouns instead of articles. See Den Fujanske Ordboken (The Fujansk Dictionary) for more information.
Quick Info
Trigram: FJA Adjective: Fujansk Demonym: Fujar Plural: Fujar Language: Fujansk Population: 7,294,825 (~RL Paraguay/Washington state) Area: 521,912 km2 (Saisland: 132,718 km2, Hasmark: 389,194 km2) (~RL Nicaragua+Zimbabwe/Alabama+Montana) GDP (PPP) per capita: 1,760,000 kronar, 71,535 international monetary units Capital: Keiserholde, Keiserholde fylke Resources
Factbook (moderate WIP) Flag of Fujai: 1000px - 300px - 50px - flagicon (23px) Fujais Idrottsblad | Fujai Sports Newswires One-page travel guide to Fujai (only very slightly outdated) Den Fujanske Ordboken - Fujansk-Common dictionary, pronunciation guide, name generator, and more! Population map of the fylkar of Fujai Population map of the 20 largest kommunes of Fujai  
Team Info
Basic Info:
Preferred formation: 4-3-1-2 or 4-3-3 Style mod: +1.2 Home stadium: Nykanalstadion, Keiserholde - cap. 48,300 (34,680 standing; 13,620 seated) Known commonly as Nykanalen, the stadium is located in Nykanalparken, a park built on the former fortifications that surround Keiserholde's city center. Nykanalen is the largest stadium in the nation, and serves as the home stadium for the Landslag. Like most stadiums in Fujai, it includes large standing areas to increase capacity, lower costs, and help people stay warm by standing instead of sitting in the country's famously cold weather. Managers: Systa Hendsal, Iren Sattar Coaches: Eirdis Overby, Lasse Lillegård Players to Watch:
Arin Salberg - Captain and star striker of Solbakken IL, one of the winningest teams in recent Fujansk history—has led the team in scores at every competition. Solfrid Hellem - Shadow striker, them and Salberg have made a daring duo the past two years of being together on the national team Erna Höss - A star from Annarserien's Hal Stor IK, until this year they were only starter from the second division, but two high profile relegations meant they were joined by many others. Anton Felland - A master of footwork, they can take the ball even from the most experienced players if given the chance Roster
Starting 11
Name Pos. Club City Age League Arin Salberg Striker (ST) Solbakken IL Keiserholde 24 Fyrstserien Solfrid Hellem Shadow Striker (SS) Hafstrand 07 FF Hafstrand 28 Annarserien Xavier Michaud Attacking Midfielder (AM) AS Savigny-Bilten Bertranslaug 31 Fyrstserien Maa'ingan Hoven Central Midfielder (CM) Lindskrona IF Lindskrona 27 Fyrstserien Erna Höss Left Midfielder (LM) Hal Stor IK Halfjord 25 Annarserien Jørgen Solstein Right Midfielder (RM) Karlsøra IF Karlsøra 32 Fyrstserien Chibuzo Jorg Left Back (LB) Jarnfoss IL Jarnfoss 28 Annarserien Rakel Veberg Right Back (RB) Austvik IL Austvik 30 Annarserien Agnes Hammeren Center Back (CB) Bruland IF Keiserholde 29 Fyrstserien Anton Felland Center Back (CB) Trondsnes FF Strafsund 24 Fyrstserien Nahel Parekh Goalkeeper (GK) Almoren IL Almoren 34 Fyrstserien Reserves
Name Pos. Club City Age League Min Qian Striker (ST) Trondsnes FF Strafsund 31 Fyrstserien Tosin Dawar Striker (ST) Uni. i Strafsund Strafsund 21 Storuniserien Marte Setter Attacking Midfielder (AM) Ossen BK Kordalant 35 Fyrstserien Peder Kamie Attacking Midfielder (AM) AS Savigny-Bilten Bertranslaug 26 Fyrstserien Stefan Juel Central Midfielder (CM) Almoren IL Almoren 30 Fyrstserien Pernille Slette Central Midfielder (CM) Solbakken IL Keiserholde 28 Fyrstserien Torunn Landet (AC) Left Midfielder (LM) Havnarbetars IL Braskvik 26 Fyrstserien Agnar Boken Right Midfielder (RM) Rønnhavn IL Rønnhavn 27 Fyrstserien Mtuzi Kesane Left Back (LB) FF Skan Fosborg 27 Annarserien Arni Limensgård Left Back (LB) Bruland IF Keiserholde 25 Fyrstserien Hildur Buras Center Back (CB) Bruland IF Keiserholde 24 Fyrstserien Torild Vaness Center Back (CB) Hafstrand 07 FF Hafstrand 30 Annarserien Finn Åbel Goalkeeper (GK) Karlsøra IF Karlsøra 29 Fyrstserien Formation Graphic
Kits
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Head Coach Dylan Burke M 46 Gasple Dynamic     Asst Head Coach Star Marquez F 59 Bridlo Riddles     Asst Coach Bridgette Moss F 46 Bridlo Riddles       Teri Kersey F 39 Gasple Dynamic     Goalkeeping Coach Edweena Hathway F 44 Gasple Dynamic                   Position Name Sex Age Team Number Remarks GK Abby Kidd F 39 Bridlo Riddles 1 Vice-Captain DF Elaina Braddock F 35 Gasple Dynamic 2   DF Peter Knight M 33 Gasple Dynamic 3   DF Lorainne Kennard F 29 East Fairdesshields Eagles 4   DF Van Burgess M 31 Gasple Dynamic 5   MF Cameron Ross M 28 Steskia Kings 17   MF Billy Jordan M 34 Gasple Dynamic 7 Captain MF Charmaine Maldonado F 35 North Shil Silent Vipers 8   MF Joanne Lane F 31 Wrarnerbadshot Watchers 9   FW Kolton Dale M 29 Steskia Kings 19   FW Collin Maddox M 30 Steskia Kings 11   GK Lora Barnet F 30 North Shil Silent Vipers 23   FW Raelyn Weston F 27 North Shil Silent Vipers 20   DF Aidan Fisher M 32 Bridlo Riddles 15   MF Vincenzo Sweeney M 27 Bridlo Riddles 6   DF Leta Delgado F 26 Bridlo Riddles 13   FW Sonya Kynaston F 29 Wrarnerbadshot Watchers 22   DF Nova Fields F 29 Gasple Dynamic 16   MF Lorie Marsh F 33 Perthdoches Hyenas 21   MF Jake Gaines M 26 North Shil Silent Vipers 10   MF Alexina Willoughby F 35 Fort Bloom Crocodiles 24   DF Mimi Yoxall F 23 Perthdoches Hyenas 14   GK Mikki Walters F 30 Wrarnerbadshot Watchers 12   Names and details in bold are the starters.
Style Modifier: +1.7
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Nuntias Diarias de Giovanniterra - Daily News of Giovanniland
Giovanniland's Football Team Arrives in Ryxtylopia
Ryxenia, Ryxtylopia - The Giovannilandian National Football Team (Squadra Nationala Giovanniterrana de Pedesfera, in Giovannese) has arrived at the Ryxtylopian capital city for the start of the 3rd World Cup of Football. The 33-player strong team will be playing in Group B for the group stage, together with Cambria, United Adaikes, and Teralyon from Polaris, the latter of which the Giovannilandians will meet on the first matchday, as well as the Nuran nations of Sekiya and Peourouin.
The national team has seen many changes since the last edition of the World Cup, most notably Gustavo Zapata replacing Lorentio Santo-Ferraro as team captain. Gustavo scored goals for Giovanniland in the two previous World Cup, and also led the nation's football in the past Summer Esferiads, being the leader in goals and assistances while being a key contributor to Giovanniland's two silver medals in Saint-Josalyn and then Quoriv-Kharventhin. Interviewed about his expectations for the upcoming World Cup by the Nuntikarta, Gustavo replied he hopes that Giovanniland can surpass its previous record of the Round of 16.
1423 Chess Championship Near
Sonserina, Montemore Province, Giovanniland - While most of the world is currently focused on the 3rd World Cup of Football happening in Ryxtylopia, many in Giovanniland are also looking forward to one of the nation's most famous competitions. The 1423 Giovanniland Chess Championship (Campionato Giovanniterrano de Ludregale) is slated to happen in December of this year, and preparations are finishing while the regional competitions host their last matches to decide which chess players will participate in this grand national event.
Chess is one of the leading sports of Giovanniland, available since childhood in most schools as an option for those who are not very skilled in physical sports, and this event that has happened yearly since 1354 usually earns recognition from the nation's prime minister. The current holder of the position, Elisa Anario-Silva, has already confirmed her visit to the event, and this year the Chess Championship promises to be even more special since it will end as the Lavender Festival starts, which is a national celebration of the new year.
Fourty participants will be participating in the event, these places having been divided into places for each region allocated in proportion to regional population, aside from one spot automatically reserved for the defending champion, Guillermo Uryde-Amorino from Primolido, which has won the last two editions. Several notable players from the past editions have already qualified, including but not limited to Giovanni Amdo-Gyatso and Raffella Quadrigaro from Giovannia Magna, Vittore Nyima-Lyamo from Altana, as well as Lavanda Rosetta-Lyra and Karlo Neurine-Sousa from Lavanda Prima.
Economy of Giovanniland Continues Strong
Giovannia Capital City, Giovanniland - The Giovannilandian economy finishes another month in a strong position, maintaining its place as the fourth largest economy of Esferos and also keeping the nation's place among the world's highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita values. Giovanniland's GDP PPP is valued at $1,406,647,221,920 while the per capita index is at $48,000, with the highest contribution coming from the tertiary or services sector, followed by the secondary or industrial sector and at last the primary sector.
The tertiary sectors accounts for 72% of the national economy, with significant participation from the trading, finances, and tourism areas. An example is banking, with the nation's leading banks known internationally for their secure systems and lower taxes, although the government receives a fee to ensure the sector's strength and there are also mechanisms to avoid illegal money deposits. Eco-tourism has also seen continued growth, as the nation's environmental policies ensure that visitors can experience lands as diverse as the rainforests of northern Lavender Island to the southern Giovandolian Mountains.
Meanwhile, the secondary sector contributes to 26.5% of the national GDP and is very diverse. The technological industry is headed in the Primolido and Altana regions, in Aura and Andolia respectively, and retains its place among the nation's spotlights due to its high advancement. The food industry, strongest in the Abrenaustro and Rivolinte regions, has also seen a notable increase ahead of the end of year celebrations, when many in the nation hold special events and several cities also brace for significant tourism. On the other hand, the retail and automobile industries were among those marking a slight decrease, although it is hoped this will be overcome soon.
Finally, despite its far smaller contribution of 1.5% to the economy and a retraction this month, the primary sector maintains its importance as the basis for many of the nation's more advanced exports. Due to its tropical location, Giovanniland is a significant producer of a variety of crops, including but not limted to bananas, coconuts, papayas, cassava, cocoa, coffee, rice, sweet potato, and tea. Mining operations also continue, especially in the Valmirabbe and Terra Violeta regions, although mindful of the nation's environmental regulations.

The Big Day - Fire n’ Fireworks
 
As police cars stood outside and the checkpoints near the Rivalda calmed down from the wave of laser pointers collected, the ceremony finally began at 12:00, with important figures taking place at one of the boxes in the center part of one of the sides of the stadium.
The president of the FRF: Hildo Gailavéz stepped up to give a brief speech to a crowd, both Ryxtylopians foreigners and the press.
“I welcome everybody to Ryxtylopia, were me and the FRF, in cooperation with the government are proud to announce that after our bid for the III World Cup of Football was accepted we’re happy to receive you all here.”
Gailavéz slightly adjusts his tie.
“Its of the greatest honors for me the FRF and Ryxtylopia to host this tournament, and the intense work and investments have paid off, we are confident of our nation’s ability to host this tournament and i as well as all the people here hope that this tournament will be remembered as one of the best in the edition for decades to come.”
Gailavéz steps down as the crowd start applauding, in time for the president Edyuardo, to step up; a complicated man for sure, wanting to protect the average ryxtylopian whilst selling out the country’s labor, helping big business and allowing foreigners to set up a military presence in Ryxtylopia.
Edyuardo started his brief speech to oficially mark the start of the tournament, before the first match between Ryxtylopia and Kalmach would happen in a few hours.
The crowd applauds him.
“Thank you, thank you, like my fellow compatriot said i'm very proud that my country will get to host this tournament.”
Edyuardo pauses for a moment as he read the speech, just as the cameras focused on him to see a green dot, on his face, a laser had gotten through, however this laser was only able to stay focused on his face for less than half a minute as security forces off camera quickly apprehended to perpetrator and took them away.
“And now with this, im proud to announce, this 17th of November, of the year 1423 the World Cup of Football in Ryxtylopia, to mark the third edition of the tournament has now officially started!”
 

 
The crowd applauds and cheers, as bags of balloons are released; the president stays in place as a speaker announces:
“Now with accord with the law, we will honor the president of the nation, and all ryxtylopian citizens by playing the national anthem of the Ryxtylopian Federation, followed by the cultural tournament.”
The Ryxtylopian national anthem starts playing, most stood respectfully but a group in the crowd whistled and booed during the ordeal, while it wasn’t too loud, it was audible making it sort of an akward moment, for the duration of the anthem.
But soon after the anthem stopped, music started playing as the cultural exposition started, with traditional ryxtylopian music playing as dancers went to the pitch to give a brief cultural exposition.
This lasted about an hour before it ended, the president gave one final remark:
“And I give a cordial welcome to all the foreigners that have decided to travel here to watch the tournament. I and the rest of the ministers hope that you will have a great time here and this will be one of the best tournaments in the history of world football.”
The crowds cheered and some booed in the corner as the president stepped down, the fireworks were scheduled after the match with kalmach later in the day, for now he took another route into his limo waiting outside, since with about 4 hours left before the match, he needed to discuss things with Gilchabó, the two parted off from the stadium at 1:14 p.m. 
 

Mussa was startled by a sudden noise and opened one of his eyes. As he turned the lights on, the faint whirring of a lightbulb echoed throughout the room.
How long had he slept since he got back to the hotel room? Mussa quickly looked left and right, as if the walls could answer his question. The last days of training had been very demanding, and the long flight had not been kind to him, as he still had to recover fully.
He slowly got out of his bed and looked out of the window. Ryxenia’s bright city lights cut through the dark sky, as if they were a sea of artificial stars. Mussa had never traveled so far away in his life. He was used to living in his native town, small even by fluvian standards. Instead, the Ryxtylopian Capital seemed to stretch endlessly, and he struggled to visualize the sheer size of it. “A single city that contains almost all citizens of Rivalfiume,” he thought to himself. 
But Mussa’s thoughts were cut short by a faint siren noise, as several police lights briefly lit up the distant city streets, painting them bright blue. Mussa followed the police lights with his eyes, until they disappeared behind a large building. It seemed like a lot of police was required. He didn't think too much of it.

"Besides, it's such a huge city..."

Mussa admired the city landscape one more time before turning to his bed. “Sleeping will help me recover and stay sharp for the oncoming matches.” he thought, before shutting off the lights.

WORLD FOOTBALL IS BACK!
After nearly two weeks of training camp in the capital, the Orangutan Rangers squad is expected to prepare for the third edition of the Esferos World Cup that will take place in Ryxtylopia. "The national squad has shown excellent performance in the last edition, and this year, we have the opportunity to bring the Cup home to our home. It is my hope and that of all Arifians that all the players will play hard for the country," said youth and sports minister Dato Isma. His Majesty Sultan Arif has also agreed to sponsor two planes for the supporters.
 
Reporter: Good day everyone! I, Ahmad Maslan, Arifiyyah's Times sports reporter reporting from Ryxtylopia. I am now with the manager of the Arifiyyah FA team, Mr. Mikel Artery. So sir, what is your reaction to the teams you will face?
 Manager: We never underestimate any team through the ranking, and we expect a challenge from all teams. We will also give our best to bring home the championship in this edition.
Reporter: Next we have our team captain,HRH Muhammad Nazhim, what are your comments for this edition of the world cup? 
Captain: Yes, we are always ready and looking ahead. We are here fighting to carry the trust and hope of millions of Arifians. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to thank the host for providing the best facilities for us to practice. 
Reporter: Thank you. So, that's it for now, let's back to the studio.
 

ARIFIYYAH WILL FACING AUKERA IN THE 1ST MATCHDAY OF GROUP D

THE SQUAD ARRIVED AT THE RYX AIRPORT

MUHAMMAD NAZHIM (MIDDLE) WITH  AMAR KHALID(RIGHT) AND SYAMER(LEFT) AT THE TRAINING CAMP
 

WORLD FOOTBALL IS BACK!
After nearly two weeks of training camp in the capital, the Orangutan Rangers squad is expected to prepare for the third edition of the Esferos World Cup that will take place in Ryxtylopia. "The national squad has shown excellent performance in the last edition, and this year, we have the opportunity to bring the Cup home to our home. It is my hope and that of all Arifians that all the players will play hard for the country," said youth and sports minister Dato Isma. His Majesty Sultan Arif has also agreed to sponsor two planes for the supporters.
 
Reporter: Good day everyone! I, Ahmad Maslan, Arifiyyah's Times sports reporter reporting from Ryxtylopia. I am now with the manager of the Arifiyyah FA team, Mr. Mikel Artery. So sir, what is your reaction to the teams you will face?
 Manager: We never underestimate any team through the ranking, and we expect a challenge from all teams. We will also give our best to bring home the championship in this edition.
Reporter: Next we have our team captain,HRH Muhammad Nazhim, what are your comments for this edition of the world cup? 
Captain: Yes, we are always ready and looking ahead. We are here fighting to carry the trust and hope of millions of Arifians. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to thank the host for providing the best facilities for us to practice. 
Reporter: Thank you. So, that's it for now, let's back to the studio.
 

ARIFIYYAH WILL FACING AUKERA IN THE 1ST MATCHDAY OF GROUP D

THE SQUAD ARRIVED AT THE RYX AIRPORT

MUHAMMAD NAZHIM (MIDDLE) WITH  AMAR KHALID(RIGHT) AND SYAMER(LEFT) AT THE TRAINING CAMP
 

Team Information
Style mod: 3.8 Formation: 2-3-5 Home stadium: Union Arena, cap. 75,000 Head Coach: Giovanni Dos Santos Assistant Coaches: Marco Savarese, Greenne Velach Goalkeeping Coach: Cory Highsmith Roster
Goalkeepers (4): Andrew Meredith, Aljaz Sulte, Thomas Irons Defenders (5): Tony Arreaga, Jalil Ebobisse, Jaroslaw Zuparic, Jorge Alfaro, Laurens Mallory, Gadsden Jeffries Midfielders (7): Abram King, Vincent Taney, Bill Nyassi, Victor Rosales, Cristian Moffat, Andreas Atencio, Chad Mears Forwards (12): Miguel Montero, Jordan Noonan, Dixon Pomeroy, Yimmi Nkufo, Diego Ruidiaz, Renzo Valeri, Emery Veere, Fredy Ochoa, Sammy Ocampo, Nelson Ibarra, Cam White, Jacob Carter Starters are underlined.
Formation

 
Kit

Home (L), Away (C), Alternate (R)
 
Style modifier 3.8 Home stadium  Union Arena  (RP) Players may be injured Yes (RP) Players may receive yellow cards Yes (RP) Players may receive red cards Yes No godmodding; Consult prior to carding.

Giovannilandian National Football Team
Squadra Nationala Giovanniterrana de Pedesfera
Background:
Football, called pedesfera in Giovannese (from 'pede' meaning foot and 'sfera' meaning ball or sphere), is one of the most popular sports in the nation, alongside other common sports such as volleyball, rugby, and chess. Giovanniland has several notable teams competing in the nation's upper leagues that get millions of fans every year, such as the Porto Violeto Bellatores (Warriors), the Quiras de Quorivo (Spears), the Araras de Andoliavilla (Macaws) and the Gavias de Giovannia (Hawks). These and other teams make up the Prima Liga with a total of 20 participants, the four highest getting the chance to play international tournaments while the four lowest are relegated to the Sekunda Liga, which has a similar system of promotions to the Prima Liga and relegations to the Tertia Liga.
Since the last World Cup of Football, the team representing Giovanniland has had several big changes. Owing to the success of the country in the past two Summer Esferiads, with two silver medals brought back home, but not so much in the World Cups, several younger players from the Esferiad and rising stars of the top teams are now a part of the main team, eager to leave their mark in world football. Furthermore, the team captaincy has shifted from Lorentio Santo-Ferraro to Gustavo Zapata, who has scored several goals in the World Cup participations and was instrumental to the good performance in the Esferiads, now carrying several years of experience in professional football and looking forward to the future. The current roster is a blend of new and veteran players, and under new managers and coaches the team has upped their game in recent matches. The team's hope is to improve their record and achieve further than the past two World Cups' early Round of 16 exits.
Style mod: +2
Stadium: Arena Abrentana, Giovannia
Managers: Matteo Levino and Teresa Alva-Uryde
Coach: Èttore Ottavio-Linnare and Elia Lastrilla
Maps of the Roster:
Golden icon means the city is represented by a player in the starting XI at least, silver means it is represented by at least one reserve.

The represented cities - Full image link

The represented cities alongside others - Full image link
Starting XI:
Name Age Position Home City Sergio Pradobeno-Turres 26 Goalkeeper Andoliavilla Tiberio Nyima-Tsutrino 21 Center Back Uryde Manuella Giakobo 28 Center Back Porto Violeto Onofre Kalvente-Amafinio 24 Left Outside Back Giovenoria Vittoria Oriastella 25 Right Outside Back Islamagna Lorentio Santo-Ferraro 29 Defending Midfield Annavilla Gabriella Orfeo 27 Center Midfield Amorante Augusto Uprino-Antenore 21 Attacking Midfield Abrentopole Gustavo Zapata (C) 22 Striker Giovannia Klementine de Abreo-Florine 23 Striker Quorivo Matteo Divendomare 21 Striker Andoliavilla Reserve Players:
Name Age Position Home City Mariano Aqualta Voluseno 23 Goalkeeper Lunoddo Amanda Sàvora 27 Goalkeeper Abrentopole Sandra Persona Fontana 20 Center Back Karlopole Valentino Ortano-Rustikellio 25 Center Back Bayabela Margerita Desnia-Aristo 23 Center Back Villaflore Teodoro Sonserina 21 Center Back Kastellavando Giuno Linnare-Talisio 26 Left Outside Back Flaviopole Kornelio Trieste 27 Left Outside Back Annavilla Tadeo Gyatso de Silva 23 Right Outside Back Giovannia Farlina Benaventura 24 Right Outside Back Porto Violeto Erasmo Vedio-Sabidio 30 Defending Midfield Vinikiana Anna Pasane-Uryde 25 Defending Midfield Dazane Nìkolo Veranio 27 Center Midfield Giuliana Mara Erdene-Aruna 19 Center Midfield Mareste Giovanni-Pietro Lummontana 21 Attacking Midfield Portovino Ortensia Anvera-Floreverde 24 Attacking Midfield Uryde Rakelle Lumenara-Santos 28 Striker Porto Violeto Giuseppe dell'Amorine 19 Striker Giovannia Aurelio Duvina 21 Striker Karlopole Emilia Artena-Lurtone 25 Striker Fèrdira Terentio Ugyene 23 Striker Nova Lavanda Giordana Gavio-Akronio 22 Striker Salvoregno Jerseys:

If my opponent RPs first, they may...
Injure my players: no
Assign my players yellow cards: yes
Assign my players red cards: yes
Godmod injuries: no
Godmod scoring: no
Godmod other events: no

The players get settled in for a long flight all the way to the Northern Auran nation of Ryxtylopia, where 24 deserving teams will fight it out for the Grand Prize, the Football World Cup trophy.
The star-studded team of the Andolian juggernaut, Larxia, ranked 4th in the World of Football, has had quite the history with the trophy. They came so close to winning it all in the 1st World Cup, but narrowly missed out on the greatest honour in the world of football, denied by Nieubasria. The 2nd time-around, Larxia once again made it to the quarterfinals. Another heartbreaking moment for Larxia in the history of Football World Cup.
This time the players look prepared to get it all for our nation, they have gone there as a unit stronger than ever before. The bonding and brotherhood of the team has been higher than ever before. The players have quite literally fought for each other, with every team-mate rallying behind the most influential and inspirational captain in the history of Larxian football. He has been one of the greatest ambassadors of Larxian football across Esferos.
There was a slight concern regarding the World Cup being hosted by Ryxtylopia, due to the nation's history of the oppression of the poor. Several influential figures cited the mistreatment of citizens as a Human Rights issue. This had the football fans in Larxia divided. Some believed that the Larxian nation must uphold the standards of Human Rights and boycott the tournament being held in the Auran nation, while others believed that this was an internal issue of Ryxtylopia, that must not be interfered with. To clear any speculations of Larxia participating in the tournament, the FFL President, Mr. Nahuel Garcia, made a clear statement that the FFL will be sending a delegation to Ryxtylopia for the upcoming Football World Cup. He also highlighted the importance of separating sport and politics in his public statement.