Pop World Cup 2014 – FreakyTrigger https://freakytrigger.co.uk Lollards in the high church of low culture Mon, 11 Dec 2017 13:31:09 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 Pop World Cup 2014: Tournament Review https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/pop-world-cup-2014-tournament-review https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/pop-world-cup-2014-tournament-review#comments Mon, 14 Jul 2014 10:02:25 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27776 ktb AWARDS

ENGLAND are the winners of the Pop World Cup 2014. Congratulations to manager Ronald and the team: Disclosure, Natalia Kills, Mutya Keisha Siobhan, AlunaGeorge, Years & Years, Foals, and Katy B and Jessie Ware.

Nigeria (managed by Cis) are runners-up, and Chile (managed by lartsaegis) take third place.

The GOLDEN MIC for the highest-scoring individual track (pitch invasions disqualified) goes to Japan’s BiS, for “Stupig”.

The GOLDEN MIXER for the highest-scoring team (best average scores across matches played) goes to South Korea.

Nominations for Team of the Tournament are open in the comments box.

TACTICAL REPORT

It’s been an entertaining and fast-paced Pop World Cup. The controversial rule change allowing only songs from the 2010s ultimately lifted the tempo and freshness of the play, and had several interesting tactical effects.

It helped confirm the huge threat posed by African teams. If the Pop World Cup wasn’t based on the football one, it would by this time have a lot more than five African qualifying places. As it is, the five African nations all made it to the knockout stages, and Nigeria came within ten votes of retaining its title. West African pop, with its playful, dancefloor-led local takes on hip-hop and ragga, is in particularly strong shape and from the start this tournament proved an especial showcase for its awesome frontwomen, from Cameroon’s Naomi Achu to Ghana’s Itz Tiffany.

Asian teams also had a terrific tournament – though frustrating, in the case of Japan and South Korea, who both fell to shock eliminations in the quarter-finals. The statistics tell their own story – even defeated, both these teams had higher average scores than anyone else in the competition. Meanwhile, Iran’s low-key but bewitching tactics took them to a second semi-final – Japan and Korea have yet to reach one between them, despite the quality of their play. If they reach the 2018 Pop World Cup, both sides will be under pressure to break the quarter-final jinx.

South and Central American teams continue to be the Pop World Cup’s whipping boys, with the startling exception of Chile’s remarkable run to third place. Minnows Costa Rica and Honduras toiled mightily to little reward, while other South American teams had flashes of inspiration for a game or two but no consistency. The host nation was on the receiving end of one of the great Pop World Cup shocks, crashing out of the group stage from a commanding position thanks to Croatian ingenuity.

Croatia had one of the better performances from Continental Europe, which mostly endured a torrid competition. Their ageing squads were hit particularly hard by the 2010s only rule, which left many sides staring at a bunch of Route 1 EDM merchants and indifferent indie rockers. Solid performances from France and mercurial selections from Switzerland both fizzled out in the second round. If Sweden had qualified, would things have been different? We will surely get a chance to see some Scando pop magic in Europop 2016.

But ultimately this was England’s tournament. There are two ways to do well at a Pop World Cup – consistency (Nigeria in 2010 and 2014, Iran in 2014) and surprising variety (Germany in 2010, Iran in 2006, Chile in 2014). The latter option is often forced on smaller countries, the former really needs a strong squad in depth to work. For the “Big Two” Anglophone pop nations, there is a temptation to go for variety – with such a range of talent on offer, it’s possible to switch tactics match to match. But is it desirable? The USA had plenty of variety, began the 2014 tournament very brightly, but were out-popped by the Koreans shortly after. England, on the other hand, stuck with the manager’s preferred tactics and it paid off for them. There were no extravagantly talented stars in the England side, but a lot of young, dynamic players who consistently pleased the fans. Best of all, whoever manages England next time will surely still have most of this side to draw on.

TECHNICAL REPORT

Attendance was up on the 2010 competition, and places filled very quickly – this is partly thanks to an increased Tumblr presence and a lot of new managers coming in from that platform.

There were very few problems with late track delivery, and using YouTube meant matches could be put up quickly. We could, however, improve on playlists.

There were significant match delays – particularly before the final. This is down to only having one administrator, and next time I’ll get a backup.

Comments were down – partly due to the FT login and site loading being very sketchy at the moment.

The reformatted group stage worked quite well – almost every team was still in with a shout (however remote) for its third game. But it’s still a match-heavy format, and some of the tactical nuances of one on one games were lost. Europop 2016 will have a difficult structure to cope with anyway (thanks to FIFA) so suggestions for how to handle the group stages without short-changing players are very welcome.

For the second tournament running, we didn’t have any penalty shoot-outs, so luckily I still didn’t have to work out how to do them!

Thanks again everyone, it’s been grand.

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The Pop World Cup 2014 Final: England v Nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/the-pop-world-cup-2014-final-england-v-nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/the-pop-world-cup-2014-final-england-v-nigeria#comments Tue, 08 Jul 2014 18:25:59 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27756 worldcup At last! The anthems are sung, the teams are on the pitch, and the Macarena Stadium in Los Del Rio is about to play host to the greatest event in global pop, the Pop World Cup Final. Joining us are.. YOU, in the comment(ary) box and the voting poll – below the cut – and our finalists, England – managed by Ronald, and Nigeria – managed by Cis. Nigeria are the defending champions, England the sleeping giants who may finally have awoken. Only you can decide the outcome.

Below the cut are our two songs and managerial comments, as well as the all-important poll. The match will end on Sunday evening, exactly as that other World Cup final kicks off. Well done both sides for getting here, and may the best team win.

ENGLAND: KATY B x JESSIE WARE – “Aaliyah”

“I was really at a loss as far as what to play for the final match. I had so many songs to choose from. Then I was out this weekend and I heard this and knew this was the one. This song features 2 of England’s best newer female vocalists: Katy B and Jessie Ware. I chose the original version of the song from Katy’s 2012 mixtape rather than the 2014 album version. The album version was just missing something that the mixtape version had. The song is very much in the vein of my own personal taste, which all the songs I’ve chosen for this tournament have been. I didn’t go for anything SUPER OBVIOUS like Adele or One Direction or Coldplay. I’m proud of how far England has come. I was looking at the 2010 tournament and we didn’t even make it out of our group (we came in last). Now here we are at the final. Hopefully we can go all the way and take this home to England. I already feel proud of what we’ve done but this would just be the icing on the cake. Thank you everybody for wishing England well in this. It’s been much appreciated.”

How we got here….: England have selected a youthful squad, mostly playing a stylish pop-dance formation, and it’s consistently brought them results. Playing Disclosure as their first track was a statement of intent, and an even stronger performance by Mutya Keisha Siobhan saw them top Group D in style. They edged past the Ivory Coast in the round of 16 before a thumping win (courtesy of Years & Years) against Croatia in the Quarter-Finals gave them real belief. Finally, they defied a sceptical commentary box by beating Iran in the semis thanks to Foals.

NIGERIA: YEMI ALADE – “Tangerine”

“We’re so happy to be here at the Pop World Cup final! From Group F to the semi-finals the competition has been so fierce and so first-rate: this is truly a banner year for pop football, and we’re proud to have played alongside and against such skilled squads.

Now we face this final with joy and determination in our hearts. All we can do is keep our spirits high and give this pop football game everything we’ve got. And what we’ve got is the huge power and presence of upstart striker Yemi Alade and ace playmaker Selebobo. He keeps the team playing light and deft and sweet so Yemi can drive the full force of her personality toward the goal, then darts forward with his own energetic attack.

We’ve been so honoured by the support of the crowd this Pop World Cup – they are the true heart of this most beautiful of games – and we hope they’ll dance together with us once more. And may the best team win!”

How We Got Here…: Nigeria have played a joyful, uptempo pop game at these finals, qualifying from Group F after two matches thanks to youthful stars Tiwa Savage and Temi Dollface, letting them rest key players for the last one. That let Iran pip them to the top spot, and gave them a tough match against France and a blistering quarter-final against Ghana, with superb performances from a team that seem set on a successful defence of their title. A tricky semi against Chile brought them to the brink of what would be an astonishing achievement.

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

THANKYOU: Thanks so much to everyone who managed a team and voted (and to the musicians represented, of course!). It’s been a grand Pop World Cup and we’ll see you all again in France for Europop 2016.

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PWC14 Third-Place Match: Chile v Iran https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/pwc14-third-place-match-chile-v-iran https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/07/pwc14-third-place-match-chile-v-iran#comments Thu, 03 Jul 2014 16:01:24 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27678 alex daniel Welcome back, my friends, to the competition that is about to end. Rather behind schedule – not quite a month! – but when the football world cup has been this entertaining who can blame us? There are two matches to go. On Monday we’ll put up the POP WORLD CUP FINAL – England v Nigeria – which will then be set to end at the time the actual World Cup final kicks off (it’s almost as if we planned it). But before, this traditional appetiser, the third place match between our losing semi-finalists, lartsaegis’ Chile and Wichita Lineman’s Iran.

Both teams have given us some real highlights at this Pop World Cup. Chile got off to a slow (or maybe just long) start, gathering steam through the group stage before taking down the much-fancied Cameroon and Japan teams in the group stage. They’ve had a magnificent run, as have Iran, who have mostly stuck to an unusual and beguiling electro-tactic that neither the Swiss nor the Koreans could find a way past. In the end it was Foals who ended their winning run.

So now these sides take the pop stage one final time, and fight it out for third place. Iran have been here before, in 2006, Chile are new to this level. Tracks and poll below the cut – good luck both managers!

CHILE: Alex & Daniel – “Mundo Real”

And so, The World is not enough. But I wouldn’t undo any play we’ve made this tourney. Certainly, the cards conditions have been fulfilled, yes, I play a track in my back pocket that was fated to be our last anyway the win went. Alex Anwandter has been a pop cornerstone in Chile since the days of Teleradio Donoso, the indie-pop band he served in earlier in the 2000s. Since their dissolution he’s been behind his Odisea moniker, more electronic oriented pop, producing hot tracks for other Chilean groups, as well as stuff under his own name — speaking of which, he had at least half a hand in the Alex & Daniel project, a link up with Gepe (aka Daniel), also a top pop star in his own country, who used to play guitar in Javiera Mena’s stage band. Mundo Real is a song that stays upbeat even when, lyrically, times are feeling a bit low for two lovers — but even in the relative misery of loss, there’s always a way to get down without having to stay there.

From I, Andrew, and the rest of the Chilean National Pop Team: Te queremos (We love you). The legends have received their shine on the grand stage, and the present stars have been aligned. You can find our full eleven here. Thanks to remezcla, clubfonograma, discogs, Tom and the rest of you FT regulars I’ve gotten to know a bit more over the course of this tourney.



IRAN: Nu – “MAN O TO”

“I was going to play this in the final, and fully expected to lose to Nigeria. But it’s very lovely so it’ll suit the unpressured third place play-off.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. ]]>
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PWC14 Semi-Final: England v Iran https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/06/pwc14-semi-final-england-v-iran https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/06/pwc14-semi-final-england-v-iran#comments Tue, 10 Jun 2014 14:15:12 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27534 foalz ??? ??? ?? ???? ???? ?? ???? – for those of you not fluent in Farsi that is (er, according to Google Translate) “Eight years of hurt never stopped me dreaming”. Yes, Iran – managed by Wichita Lineman – are back in the semi-finals of the Pop World Cup after their 2006 defeat at this stage, but standing in their way is England, managed by Ronald, at this stage for the first time in the PWC era. And whoever wins will have to take on defending champions Nigeria, aiming to make it two in a row after very narrowly beating Chile – who will fight the loser here for third.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

We’ll run this game until Monday – songs under the cut and our final farewell to South Korea.


ENGLAND: Foals – “My Number”

“England finds itself in a curious position right now. It was looking for a while that we would be playing South Korea in this match but we are pleasantly surprised to find ourselves playing Iran. As someone who has been into the KPop scene for a decade now, playing against South Korea would’ve been maybe a bit too easy. It’s like we already had their playbook so to speak. But Iran is more of a wild card. We don’t really know what to expect. We’re definitely not afraid of the challenge though and are more than confident in our skills. In Foals’ My Number, we find an upbeat rhythm that will hopefully overtake Iran’s defenses. Funny enough, a remix of this song was used in a FIFA video game. (Note: The official video cuts the song up a bit – you can see it here.)

IRAN: Persian Empire ft Rai – “You”

Upping the pace after their quarter-final, Iran bring on the German-based Sam Khatam, with his sweet vocal cut-ups, and fleet-footed lightness of touch. Super-subtle minor-chord backing vocals and keyboards add extra spice. “Do it… right now… here… with you.” Do what right now? Score a couple of goals in the first ten minutes before England know what’s hit them.

SO FAREWELL THEN…: South Korea. Iain Mew’s team were the highest-scoring side in the group stages, and after defeating pop giant the USA it looked like momentum was on their side. But they were undone by Iran’s skilful counter-attacking play in the quarter-final. Their gleeful forward play won them a lot of fans, though – well done Iain and the players. Here’s their finest moment, votewise, “Yum Yum Yum” by Lip Service, from the third group stage game.

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PWC14 Semi-Final: Chile v Nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/06/pwc14-semi-final-chile-v-nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/06/pwc14-semi-final-chile-v-nigeria#comments Wed, 04 Jun 2014 15:27:22 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27504 Four more games to go in this Pop World Cup, and our first semi-final sees lartsaegis’ Chile face off against Cis’ Nigeria. Nigeria got here with a win over Ghana, and as defending champions will be used to the pressure at this level. Chile, meanwhile, enjoyed a narrow victory over Japan and will hope to be peaking at the right time for another giant-killing.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

The match is up until Monday – songs are below the cut, along with a tribute to quarter-finalists Croatia.

CHILE: Kali Mutsa – “Quispe”

kalimutsa “After two narrow victories against two of the most strongest pop nations on the globe, I took to my bed and flat-screen TV (as detailed in the official PWC rider) to soak in the highlights. A clipboard lay on my chest as I knocked around some potential names, bags under eyes, five-o’clock shadow on my face. As I scanned my reserve list, I heard a large wave of brass shake the distance. It could only be one person.

I dedicate this round to the majesty of La Gata Negra, The Pachacutie from Pachacuti, #andeanfusion reincarnate, Kali Mutsa / Celine Reymond. Starring in Chilean telenovelas by day light, guiding her caravan of silken ilk through the sands of the desert by moon light, performing to any town or city her ebullient presence crosses alongside legendary composer/director Sandoje Catiri.

Kali Mutsa was one of the first players I signed. However, she had to take leave during the group stages to finish her debut album Souvenance. I bowed and entreated her to take as much time as she needed — I was faithful she would return stronger than ever — but when I heard the horns blast the radiance of a mythic past interwoven with the hooks of the present, intermittent with future visions outside of our Brazilian camp, I knew that this: 2014, was her time in the emerald shine.

She takes the captain armband and center-forward position against another favorite, the champions of the last Pop World Cup, Nigeria. I had a dream we were against England, but I woke up and saw that we were, in fact, under more compressing odds. I think it’s safe to say that if we can’t beat them, we have no business winning the whole thing. Kali Mutsa greeted me with a single souvenir from her peregrinage — the tarot card entitled The World (where in the dream she gave me Strength). I clamored to Wikipedia to see what it all meant:

The World represents an ending to a cycle of life, a pause in life before the next big cycle beginning with the fool. The figure is at once male and female, above and below, suspended between the heavens and the earth. It is completeness. It is also said to represent cosmic consciousness; the potential of perfect union with the One Power of the universe. It tells us full happiness is also to give back to the world, sharing what we have learned or gained.

And so she gave me the most ambiguously doomy card in the entire deck. I instantly remembered a quote from a Dream Theater song I liked in 6th grade: “Remember that death is not the end, but only a transition.” This is our hardest game yet, definitely. All the world’s a stage, so let’s play some footy, shall we?”


NIGERIA: Starboy ft LAX & Wizkid – “CARO”

“It’s easy to focus only on the strikers in the pop football game – and Wizkid, in the lead here, is truly top-flight – but I’d like to take a second to focus on the boys behind. Listen to that engine room of a percussionist on the back line, keeping the rhythm light-footed with a three-two son clave that international pop football pundits might recognise from its rival developments in the sub-Saharan leagues and among the great Cuban tacticians. Keep an ear out for that sweeper, a bubbling synth line that goes box-to-box, breaking free of the verses’ midfield to assist L.A.X in his plangent middle-eight. And how about the choruses’ shifting formation from delicate piano to casual party brass? Wizkid may be the frontman of the Starboy squad, but pop football’s a team game, and we hope you’ll thrill to how tightly this Nigerian team move.”

SO FAREWELL THEN….: Croatia, one of the most unpredictable teams in the tournament, who caused the first big shock of the 2014 Pop World Cup by sneaking through Group A against the odds and relegating hosts Brazil to onlookers at their own party. Croatia switched tactics fearlessly, finally bowing out after their indie formation against England backfired. But there’s something for everyone in the squads they’ve sent out here. Here’s their finest moment – scraping home by a percentage point difference in that final Group A match thanks to Pavel’s “Cuvaj Me”.

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PWC14 Quarter-Final: Iran v South Korea https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-iran-v-south-korea https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-iran-v-south-korea#comments Wed, 28 May 2014 15:46:54 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27443 big bang Chile, Nigeria and – as of this afternoon – England are through to the Pop World Cup semi-finals. One more team will join them – Wichita Lineman’s Iran, who thumped Switzerland in the second round, or Iain Mew’s South Korea, who dispatched the USA. There are no underdogs at this level of Pop Football, with Iran a previous semi-finalist and South Korea widely tipped to go all the way. We expect a tight battle between these two sides.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This match ends on Monday – go below the cut for songs, and a farewell to Ghana.

IRAN: The Waterfront – “Doxa 6”

“Iran’s strategy of ghosting through unsuspecting defences now receives coaching assistance (spiritually) from Pole and the Durutti Column. That slo-mo fade could be the sound of a delicate lob over the South Korean keeper’s outstretched arm in the 89th minute.”

SOUTH KOREA: Big Bang – “Fantastic Baby”

“I’ve chosen one of Korea’s leading male teams, who have plenty of big match experience – I’ve personally seen them put on a winning performance at Wembley. Their best known striker is G-Dragon, who has played alongside Skrillex and Sky Ferreira in recent times, but the multi-talented five-man attack offers a lot of different routes to goal.”

SO FAREWELL THEN….: Ghana, winners of Group G under Jonathan Bogart and commentary box favourites, whose winning run came to an end against Pop World Champions Nigeria. Ghana went toe-to-toe with the USA across their group games, eventually emerging on top after a dominant performance by Itz Tiffany, whose track we’ll revisit here. Well done Jonathan – and if you enjoyed the Ghanaian playlist, check out the full squad, including substitutes, on YouTube.

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PWC14 Quarter-Final: Croatia v England https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-croatia-v-england https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-croatia-v-england#comments Fri, 23 May 2014 16:47:48 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27380 pipschips Our third quarter-final – and the last two European teams left in the competition. Croatia (managed by intothefireuk) are a team with momentum on their side, sneaking through Group A at the last second and then seeing off the Netherlands in the second round. England (managed by Ronald) find themselves at the treacherous Quarter-Final stage after a solid win over Cote D’Ivoire. The winner here faces either Iran or South Korea in the semis.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This match runs until Wednesday – songs below the cut, and a farewell to the loser of our first quarter-final…


CROATIA: Pips Chips And Videoclips – “Trubac”

“So here we are up against England of all teams. Time to bring out an alternative formation and drive forward. No sitting back this time round as the team adopt a straight forward piece of indie rock with a great stomping beat. Incidentally, although chosen entirely independently of previous tracks, the guest vocalist does look rather familiar. Having made it this far we are determined to try and push through into the next round but I suspect this will be a hard fought match.”

ENGLAND: Years & Years – “Real”

“I’ve been playing this track quite a bit over the past few months. It’s one of my fave English songs released so far this year. It’s brooding and a bit dark but still has a groove to it. Very addictive. Years & Years is probably the newest member of this squad, a squad full of young up & coming players. Apparently, this is the furthest England’s ever made it in the Pop World Cup. Hopefully this round ends with England getting a heart card (watch the video and you’ll get it).”



SO FAREWELL THEN…..: Japan!
In a very close-fought match, Japan couldn’t quite overcome a battling Chilean side, and they go out at the Quarter-Finals stage for the second time in recent PWC history. Manager Patrick St Michel can be proud of his side’s achievements, though, consistently getting a warm reception from the crowd, even in defeat. His team got off to a fantastic start with BiS’s “StuPIG”, a contender for Goal Of The Tournament according to some. So let’s see it again…

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PWC14 Quarter-Final: Ghana v Nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-ghana-v-nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-ghana-v-nigeria#comments Wed, 21 May 2014 12:46:48 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27364 guru The last two African teams remaining in the tournament clash in our second quarter-final. Ghana (managed by Jonathan Bogart) made it here by beating Algeria, while defending champions Nigeria (managed by Cis) saw off France. The winner faces either Japan or Chile for a place in the final.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This match runs till Monday. Below the cut you’ll find the songs, the team talks, and a (slightly late) farewell to the USA…

GHANA: Guru – “Karaoke”

“Don’t be fooled by this striker’s subdued attack; he’s as precise and devastating in position as any more flamboyant player. And the defensive line, as always with Ghana, is simply a monster.”

NIGERIA: Seyi Shay – “Ragga Ragga”

“It’s great to be facing our Ghanaian friends! Their Azonto formation has been lighting up the Africa Cup of Pop Nations recently, and we’re thrilled to see their style succeeding so well in international tournament. What else to meet them with than the forward play that’s taking over Nigeria’s premier pop leagues these days — the fierce, attacking, dancehall style. Seyi Shay’s a sinuous striker, not afraid to show off her Jamaican influences, not shy of a big chorus, as she dances relentlessly toward the goal.”

The Nigerian manager has advised the organisers that the first 30 seconds of this YouTube video can be skipped to get to the song.



SO FAREWELL THEN….: USA
, still a sleeping giant of pop competition, who were unlucky in some ways to be drawn against the South Koreans so soon after qualification from the “Group of Death”. But there are no easy games at this level. Along the way, manager The Lex showed off the USA’s hottest young talents, but it was veteran striker Trina who was their highest scorer. Here she is with “Beam”.

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PWC14 Quarter-Final: Chile v Japan https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-chile-v-japan https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-final-chile-v-japan#comments Mon, 19 May 2014 06:43:00 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27359 javiera Welcome back to the Pop World Cup, and to the first of our four quarter finals. Chile (managed by lartsaegis) reached here via what turned out to be the narrowest Round of 16 win, against Cameroon. Japan (gaffer: Patrick St Michel) saw off Uruguay more convincingly. The winner of this game faces Nigeria or Ghana in the semis.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This match runs until Friday! Both teams’ songs are below the cut, along with a belated farewell to Switzerland…

CHILE: Javiera Mena – “Luz De Piedra De Luna”

“I had a hard choice coming into this round, I really did. And in one respect it was a choice that hinged on who Chile would be playing next: so when I found out we would be up against Japan, I had a hard choice coming into this round, I really did. I already had a sort of prospective write up done for Mena’s latest flaming sword, Espada, it was one that delineated my history with who I’ve come to dub as Javiera Wena — how I got to know her through her first album Esquemas Juveniles, how I fell into the slowdancing-in-a-drowning-room depth of field that the title track had, how Espada takes direct reference to Revolutionary Girl Utena: Adolescence Apocalypse and how it remixes the prince aesthetic, how the melodyne pitch shifting is TREMENDOUSLY used to make her voice sound like a male’s voice, how I love the whole damn thing even if others have started to wane on her, but I had to take a step back and have a pow-wow with Javiera herself.

At a dinner I brought out a toy silver-paint-plated plastic buckler made for an action figure, put it on the table, and I took the pink sword from my drink and set it down beside. I told her she could either play with the shield of herself or the sword magically extracted from the chest of her lover. She told me that a man on TV once told her to “believe in the shield, because the shield brings the sword,” but she then replied that the sword brings a safeguard, and invoking Tracey Thorn on Massive Attack’s Protection, she said “I have no fear, and I’ll take on any man here who says that’s not the way it should be.”

I then told her that while I know Espada is who she is now, Luz de Piedra de Luna has literally been haunting me since I began planning strategy for this match. I had a dream just yesterday night where I was in a classroom, explaining to a professor who had been teaching me how to teach Young Adult Literature a translation/breakdown of the chorus:

“Aunque cuando bailo contigo (But when I dance with you though) / no me preocupo más (I worry no more) / sueño contigo (a dream with you) / Luz de Piedra de Luna (Lightsewn Stone of the Moon / Cuando bailo contigo (When I dance with you) / no, no trato más (No more do I try) / de entender que tu luz se apagará (to understand why your bright always dies). The shieldmaiden of Santiago brings a shield the size of Satan’s, circa Paradise Lost. We play on a field of dreams.”

JAPAN: Perfume – “Hurly Burly”

“This far into the tournament, staying focused is key. Which is why for this match, we are marching down the pitch with a bounce in our step but unafraid to get aggressive if need be. The teams’ eyes are focused on the back of the net, and this techno-pop tune shall guide them there.”

SO FAREWELL THEN…: Switzerland, guided by the enigmatic Mullah Rezmat through Group E only to exit at the hands of Rezmat’s former charges Iran. We’ve lost one of the most unpredictable sides in the tournament, shifting formations completely from game to game. My personal favourite, the Celtic metal of Eleuveitie, didn’t quite catch the fans’ ear, so instead here’s veteran playmaker Boris Blank and “Random Tox” from game three…

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PWC14: Quarter-Finals Draw https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-finals-draw https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-quarter-finals-draw#comments Sun, 18 May 2014 10:14:54 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27346 The Quarter-Finals of the Pop World Cup are now all decided.

Chile v Japan
Croatia v England
Nigeria v Ghana
Iran v South Korea

Well done all the managers – that’s a pretty wide selection of global pop there, and some very intriguing clashes. We’ll have the first of those up tomorrow.

So (if I’ve interpreted the football tournament schedule right) the semis will be Chile/Japan v Nigeria/Ghana and Croatia/England v Iran/South Korea.

Good luck to everyone, and thanks for all the tracks so far.

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PWC14 Second Round: South Korea v USA https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-south-korea-v-usa https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-south-korea-v-usa#comments Mon, 12 May 2014 16:59:14 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27272 Two heavily fancied pop nations up against each other in the final second round game of the Pop World Cup. South Korea topped Group H with the highest score of any country (8 points). USA took 6 points as runner-up in Group G. Iain Mew and The Lex are the respective managers, and the winner plays Iran or Switzerland. Meanwhile, Ghana set up a quarter-final clash with Nigeria by beating Algeria in their second-round game.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This game ends on Friday! Click below the cut for tracks, and a farewell to Algeria…


SOUTH KOREA: f(x) – “Airplane”

“We turn to a track from one of last year’s finest albums, and definitely the finest one to be packaged to look like a pink VHS tape. f(x) play a slower building game here than some of our other players, but I’m hoping that their style when they go for goal proves a winning formula.”

USA: Ariana Grande – “Piano”

“A manifesto for pop.”

SO FAREWELL THEN…: Algeria, whose slow start in Group H belied their strength in depth. They battled back from that initial 0 points to do well in both their other group games and reach the knockouts for (I believe!) the first time. Ultimately Katherine St Asaph’s side fell to the Ghanaians. Famous for their patient play, Algeria’s most popular track with the fans was the seven-minute “Ghir hiya mankhalihache” by Cheb Hassen, so let’s see that again. Thanks Katherine!

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PWC14 Second Round: Iran v Switzerland https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-iran-v-switzerland https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-iran-v-switzerland#comments Fri, 09 May 2014 13:50:05 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27247 talairan The second round heads towards its climax with this intriguing face-off between two veteran gaffers: Wichita Lineman, who has taken charge of Iran, and former Iran boss Mullah Rezmat, now the Switzerland manager. Iran topped group F with 6 points, Switzerland came second in Group E with 4. The victor faces the winner of South Korea v USA, which goes up Monday. Meanwhile, holders Nigeria have beaten France to set up an all-African quarter-final against Ghana or Algeria.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This game is up until Wednesday – tracks below the cut! (And we say goodbye to France too)

IRAN: TALA – “The Duchess”

“Iran return to their successful ploy of hypnotic instrumental work with unexpected skittering twists and changes of pace to throw the opposition. Tala is another new, female, Iranian artist/producer based in London. It is unknown whether The Duchess is a tribute to Bo Diddley’s sidekick.”

SWITZERLAND: Lo & Leduc – “All Die Buecher”

“We have the mountains, we have the outlands and the lowlands now — we have the air and the beat. We have the heart. Join us. But you already did.” Peace out, Rezmatt



SO FAREWELL THEN….: France
, whose progress through Group E at the managerial hands of Jessica won them a lot of fans. In the end, there’s no shame in falling to the World Champions in what many commentators agreed was one of the finest of this year’s Pop World Cup matches. Their biggest hit with the crowd, though, was Indila ft Black M’s “Derniere Danse”, so let’s see that one again. Well done Les Bleus!

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PWC14 Second Round: Ghana v Algeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-ghana-v-algeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-ghana-v-algeria#comments Wed, 07 May 2014 16:08:16 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27202 sarkodieIt’s an all-African second-round tie as Jonathan Bogart’s Ghana side take on Katherine St Asaph’s Algeria. Ghana qualified at the top of Group G with 7 points, while Algeria fought back from a poor start to qualify from Group H with 5. The winner here will go into a quarter-final against France or Nigeria. Meanwhile, England will meet Croatia in the quarters after they saw off Cote D’Ivoire. Congratulations to Ronald, and we say goodbye to the Ivoirians below the cut.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

This match runs until Monday. Get voting!


GHANA: Sarkodie ft EL – “You Go Kill Me”

“The top striking MC in Ghana right now, and for the past half-decade, has been Sarkodie. This lineup, with excellent co-forward EL, is one of the loosest and most purely enjoyable in recent Ghanian pop football.”



ALGERIA: Cheb Nadir – “Le Grand Succès”

“500,000+ YouTube views! The title speaks truth. Built on an almost reggae-like backing, — the tags on a few versions indicate as much — that recurs just often enough to be a main theme. The rest is 10 minutes of processed, twisty vamping from vocalist and instrumentalists, and I’ve listened about five times so far hearing how it snarls and unravels what it’s made of itself.”

SO FAREWELL THEN…: Cote D’Ivoire – Garry McK’s squad won a lot of friends with tactics determined to show off the multiple styles of modern Ivoirian pop, and scored well in every group stage match. A match against England proved a game too far, but as the team hit the highway, here’s Meiway, their Player of the Tournament, with strike partner Black Kent. “Impressive interplay between the two front men” quoth the commentators.

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PWC14 Second Round: France V Nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-france-v-nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-france-v-nigeria#comments Mon, 05 May 2014 15:42:26 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=27070 chidinma The fifth of our second-round matches pits France, managed by Jessica, against Nigeria, managed by Cis. France easily won Group E with 7 points, Nigeria came close to triumph in Group F with 6. At stake is a place in the quarter finals against either Algeria or Ghana. Meanwhile, Japan won their match against Uruguay to book a quarter-final place of their own.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Voting ends on Friday! Songs – and a farewell to Uruguay – below the cut.

FRANCE: Maître Gims – “J’me Tire”

“With a last salute to the Honduran and Ecuadoran sides — and a nod to the marauding Swiss only a border away — Les Bleus are climbing into the knockout stage with eyes on the pop trophy. Our leader now is Maître Gims, whose style in “Je m’tire” would seem too personal to inspire. But many a fan is familiar with the persona of the star who seems too at war with himself, or the system that made him, to promise much on the pitch, but then suddenly streaks away and gets the goal in spite of it all. To mix metaphors, it’s a balancing act; I’m happy on the tightrope with M. Gims. Stop! Ne réfléchis plus, vas-y! Onward, France!”



NIGERIA: Chidinma – “Kedike”

“It’s good to be here in the second round! We’ve brought out hotly-tipped young forward Chidinma. A celebrated alumna of the Project Fame pop football academy, she’s noted for her nimble moves and powerful kick. They call her Miss Kedike – Miss Heartbeat – and this song is her calling card, a joyful exhibition of Naija pop flair.”

SO FAREWELL THEN…: Uruguay battled their way through Group D, but the pop tactics of Japan proved too much for them. Along the way they played a variety of different formations, but the one which brought them home the points was Carmen Sandiego, one of several knockout stage tracks to do commendably well with classic indie tactics. “Full marks for energy and enthusiasm” said our man in the box. Thanks to manager Matthew, and here’s “Generacion 2002” again.

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PWC14 Second Round: England v Cote D’Ivoire https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-england-v-cote-divoire https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/05/pwc14-second-round-england-v-cote-divoire#comments Thu, 01 May 2014 14:53:43 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26892 bebi Today’s second round game sees Group D winners England (managed by Ronald) take on Group C runners-up, Garry McK’s Cote D’Ivoire. ENG ended up with 7 points in their group, while CIV bagged 5 1/2. The winners will take on Croatia in the Quarter-Finals, who just emerged victorious from their game against the Dutch.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Voting ends on Tuesday! Songs – and farewells to the Netherlands and Cameroon – below the cut.

ENGLAND: AlunaGeorge – “You Know You Like It”

“You know you like it, but it drives you insane… Hopefully you like England’s latest pick and it drives you insane (in a good way). This song did drive me insane upon first hearing it. It’s just so smooth and seductive and refreshing. It’s a great combination of dreamy electropop fused with a touch of 90s R&B. Aluna’s coy, girlish vocals are just the perfect icing on the cake.”


COTE D’IVOIRE: Bebi Philip ft Debordeau – “On S’Eclate”

“The Cote D’Ivoire board is pleased we’ve replicated the team’s performance from 2010 and reached the knock-out stages. But standing in our way of taking the next step is England. Having recently read Bob Stanley’s Pop Tactics and Formations of the UK and US: A Managers Guide, we know England excels in almost any formation. But while it’s advantage England on so many levels, Cote D’Ivoire fans can take heart knowing we can play in ways England can’t. So it’s back to coup decale forged on the packed pitches of Abidjan.

Bebi Philip is our most adaptable player, equally at home with balladry or zouglou but here playing a freestyle role. He also has the best hair in the league. Debordeau is our target man, battle-hardened from regular bouts with DJ Arafat. His tough persona belies great subtlety on the ball. Behind this front pair is our typically effervescent midfield and disciplined defense.

Whether this is enough to pull off a giant-killing performance remains to seen, but if we bow out, we can take pride in doing it while playing the Ivorian way.”

And now a new PWC feature as a thankyou to our departing managers!

SO FAREWELL THEN….: Cameroon, ably managed by Chris, who dominated group A but fell in a narrow defeat to Chile. Their track that found most favour with the crowd was Reniss – “C’Est La Vie”. As one commentator put it, “sometimes I think there is no more euphoric music in the world than modern African gospel bangers”. So here she is again.



SO FAREWELL THEN….: Holland
, gaffered (is that a word?) by Job De Wit. Some may point to the pitch invasion that helped them in their first game, but they were doing well in that match anyhow, and challenged strongly in the third match too. We’ll leave you with that first track, by Yellow Claw and The Opposites. A commentators’ view: “Yes, it kicks, but it’s not all the same kick. Not that I’d mind it if it were. Anyway, clobbers the opposition.”

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PWC 14 Second Round: Japan v Uruguay https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc-14-second-round-japan-v-uruguay https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc-14-second-round-japan-v-uruguay#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2014 16:40:47 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26877 nami Our third knockout game pits Patrick St Michel’s Japan team – victors in Group C with 7 points – against Matthew’s Uruguay side, who were Group D runners-up on 5. They’re competing to play Chile, who held off a much-fancied Cameroon team to become our first quarter-finalist.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

You have until Saturday to vote – songs are below the cut!

JAPAN: Nami Tamaki – “Paradise”

“The Japan squad is thrilled to get to the knockouts, and the team is channeling that joy in their play. But don’t expect to just be mindlessly happy – with “Paradise,” we aim to be darty and constantly in motion, although focused squarely on the goal. With a smile on our collective face.”

URUGUAY: Extravagancia – “Yendo de Frente”

“The commenters have mentioned more than once that Uruguay seem more fit for the indie league, and it’s true the team hasn’t gone the ethnic route in the early rounds. But after Campo’s disastrous shutout in the last round it might be time to shift things ever so slightly. Here’s Extravagancia, a Montevideo sextet who label themselves cumbia digital and cumbia glam. Their most recent recording features a cover of Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy,” but then so did Petula Clark’s, and she’s not indie, is she?”

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PWC14 Second Round: Netherlands v Croatia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-second-round-netherlands-v-croatia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-second-round-netherlands-v-croatia#comments Sun, 27 Apr 2014 20:53:40 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26863 lov Our first all-European tie in the second round sees Job De Wit’s Netherlands side – who topped Group B with 5 points – take on intothefireuk’s Croatia team – who came out of Group A’s nail-biting climax also with 5 points.



Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Hear the tracks below the cut, and pick your winner.

NETHERLANDS: The Child Of Lov – “Give Me”

“It may be a bit strange, but apparently it’s not against the rules of Pop World Cup football to enter a player who is no longer with us. The 18th century legend of the Flying Dutchman may be an antecedent here. The Child of Lov, who passed away late last this year at the age of 26, takes the Netherlands into the knockout stages. The Croatian defense never saw him coming.”



CROATIA: Mayales – “Ti Dobro Znas Kome Pricam”

“Having scraped through by the thinnest of margins, the team, after prolonged celebrations, have returned with a more confident and relaxed style. This may may be a dangerous tactic but if we can withstand the early onslaught we feel this formation has the stamina to see it through. The bonus appearance of the team mascot “tiddles” in the accompanying video will hopefully spur the team on to success.”

RESULTS: South Korea took yet another three points to win Group H with ease, and lay down a marker – the highest-scoring team in the group stages. Algeria’s two left them safe in the second qualification spot, with Belgium (one point) and Russia (none) missing out. Algeria will play Ghana in the second round, with South Korea’s clash with USA perhaps the most-anticipated game of the tournament so far. Congratulations to Iain Mew and Katherine, commiserations to Glynn and Chelovek Na Lune. Final Standings: 1. South Korea – 8 points. 2. Algeria – 5 points. 3. Belgium – 3.5 points. 4. Russia – 1 point.

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PWC14 Second Round: Cameroon v Chile https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-second-round-cameroon-v-chile https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-second-round-cameroon-v-chile#comments Wed, 23 Apr 2014 22:15:06 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26827 amanitas Welcome to the knockout stages of the Pop World Cup. At this point, the rules are very simple indeed. Two tracks, vote for the one you like best. Here we have Chris’ Cameroon, who topped Group A with 7.5 points, against lartsaegis’ Chile side, runners-up in Group B with 5.


CAMEROON: Numerica – “Vas-y Moto”

Why is Numerica wearing a military uniform to Douala’s hottest club? How did he use some rather persistent AutoTune to make himself sound like a cartoon bear? And where did that one lady get her pink bowtie?

CHILE: Amanitas – “Loft De Benni”

“Being opposite of Cameroon, one of the best teams in the PWC, makes us feel like we’ve still got a lot to prove in the hearts of the public. Coming into the knockouts by the skin of our bared teeth, I had a surplus of pitch candidates, a camellia in my blazer’s buttonhole, and three directives: shift the gender ratio, thin the herd, and make sure that there are no fundamentally weak links, just differently designed ones in terms of play style. Chile has made me fortunate as a music fan. With the full female five-tet Amanitas, I play a first ballot favorite, and hope you do too. With them I’m prepared to play each match as if it’s my last (even if it is), to go with it, go with it, and just jam. This track and its protagonist, Beni, reminds me of the drive and energy that Jamiroquai’s Cosmic Girl or Love Foolosophy have as a muse, but I think she’s sleeker, more fit, more wily. I think they’re a natural pair: “She carries sweetly infectious magic formulas…” Beni is the spirit of the band, living in song, where incoherency works joined to creativity by both reason and force.”

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: There are no results! But please do still go and vote in the final Group H match, which is ongoing until Friday.

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PWC14: Group H Finale (South Korea, Algeria, Belgium, Russia) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-h-finale-south-korea-algeria-belgium-russia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-h-finale-south-korea-algeria-belgium-russia#comments Tue, 22 Apr 2014 13:04:41 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26814 k3 Welcome to the final group stage game in the Pop World Cup! I’m sorry it’s been so delayed – the result is that we’ll have a truncated voting time: you have UNTIL FRIDAY AFTERNOON to get your votes in on this. So let’s see how things stand.

South Korea (managed by Iain Mew) are in pole position with 5 points. Anything short of last place in this game and they’re through. Below them it’s something of a dogfight. Algeria (Katherine St Asaph) maintain a slender advantage with 3 points to Belgium (Glynn)’s 2.5. Russia (Chelovek Na Lune) have 1.5. Russia need to go for the win, but all these sides really need to beat the other two.

Songs, votes, and a bumper results report below the cut.

SOUTH KOREA: Lip Service – “Yum Yum Yum”

“We may be nearly through, but we’re not there just yet, and our team are still hungry. Really hungry. Did someone say ‘hamburger’?”



ALGERIA: Cheba Sihem – “Mazel Nebgigh”

“French-Algerian artist TRANCES OUT! Featherweight multitracked vocals, a big instrumental breakdown, solos, vocoder solos, reverb, and generally everything else one could possibly want.”

BELGIUM: K3 – “Ey-O”

“From what I can gather (and if it turns out this is actually an extended sketch by Ghent’s version of Smack the Pony then I apologise) K3 are a full on 360 degree media empire, encompassing sitcoms, stage musicals and a reality show. They’re also very much ‘for the children’, but in a world where everyone watches Adventure Time and Bis exist then that shouldn’t put you off. Look beyond the pirate costumes and theres something almost terrace-chant-y about this song, which rings the maximum possible amount of hook out of its two syllables. Harks back to a pre-xenomania age where pop was naff and Phillipe Albert still had a moustache.”

RUSSIA: Mooncake – “Gazania Blossom”

“Road-tested just now on a spring evening on headphones on the top deck of a double-decker bus hurtling down country lanes, Mooncake play a long, patient, proficient, mature, game, building, and building, until VICTORY IS THEIRS. Watch out for the orchestra at the start of the second half – they are the most prized of our strikers. Not a second wasted in this performance. They were, they are, they will be.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS (1): In Group F, Nigeria were already qualified and Bosnia-Herzegovina already eliminated, but those sides responded in very different ways. The Bosnians rallied to win their final game and depart their debut tournament with heads held high, while Nigeria’s decision to rest key players resulted in zero points. Inconsequential? Perhaps not. Nigeria’s defeat meant Iran’s 2 points were enough to see them top the group on percentage difference, with Argentina settling for third. Iran go on to face Switzerland in the Round of 16, while Nigeria have a tasty tie with France to look forward to. Congratulations to Wichita Lineman and Cis, commiserations to Scott and Chris, and thanks to them all for their excellent efforts. Final Standings: 1 – Iran (6 points, avg 54%). 2 – Nigeria (6 points, avg 51%). 3 – Argentina (3 points, avg 46%). 4 – Bosnia-Herzegovina (3 points, avg 38%).

RESULTS (2): Group G’s three-way tie resolved itself by another handy win for an imposing Ghana side, with the USA picking up second place in all three matches to take the second qualifying spot (and line-up a potentially mouth-watering tie with the Koreans). Portugal couldn’t manage to get anything from their final game, with Germany taking a single point home – some consolation at least for a frustrating campaign. Congratulations to Jonathan Bogart and The Lex, commiserations to Weej and Tak. Final Standings: 1 – Ghana (7 points). 2 – USA (6 points). 3 – Portugal (4 points). 4 – Germany (1 point).

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PWC14: Group G Finale (USA, Portugal, Ghana, Germany) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-g-finale-usa-portugal-ghana-germany https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-g-finale-usa-portugal-ghana-germany#comments Tue, 15 Apr 2014 16:52:26 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26769 brandy Welcome to the final Group G game! Let’s see how things stand.

USA (managed by The Lex), Portugal (managed by Weej) and Ghana (managed by Jonathan Bogart) all have 4 points, and the barest whisker of percentile difference between them. So it’s a straight knockout – the two sides doing best from those three go through.

Germany (managed by Tak), meanwhile, fell victim to the Group of Death and are on 0 points. They’ll be playing for pride only.

Poll and songs below the cut, and an ADMIN UPDATE for fans of those.

USA: Brandy Clark – “Just Like Him”

“That country realness.”

PORTUGAL: Samuel Úria – “Forasteiro”

“Portugal’s secret weapon was all ready to be deployed when last-minute fact-checking revealed she wasn’t even from Europe (don’t trust rateyourmusic for this kind of detail) – so here’s the next best thing, a more traditional formation to be sure, but such an unusual star performer that it doesn’t matter. If this were the facial expressions world cup this would be a shoe-in.”

GHANA: Itz Tiffany – “Dance (Neke Neke)”

“In a dead heat? Time to break out the big guns. Itz Tiffany is a star forward capable of winning pop football games all by herself; that she plays such a strategically subdued game here, giving equal weight to the precision work of the back half of the pitch, is part of her genius. Her striking is unpredictable, but nothing’s getting through that web.”



GERMANY: House Rockerz – “Elektrisiert”

“Kirk Lazurus said “Everybody knows you never go full retard”. It’s been said in PWC circles you should never go full Europop. But after an attempt to play a diversified game, mixing tactics up with startling changes of pace, passing rhythms and tempo, victory has eluded the team. There is no other game plan left. Route one we go with the House Rockerz. A steady start kicks into a higher intensity game once the back four get settled. A relentless pressing in midfiled begins and the juicing up of BPMs blends with some heavy crunching tackles to break up the game as the bass drops. The bridges throw in some uncomplicated link play around the box before unleashing shots on goal from all angles and a series of “oh oh ohs” to rouse the masses in the chorus.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Hypnotising tactics from the enigmatic Mullah Rezmat gave the Switzerland team a share of the top points in Group E, alongside Ecuador. Both sides did all that could be asked of them, and Honduras played their part too (by getting 0 points in the third game). But only one could qualify alongside France, and by half a point it’s the Swiss. Transalpine triumph for the Europeans, heartbreak for the Americas. Congratulations to the Mullah and to Jessica, commiserations to Kat and Meghan. We’ll see who the winners play next in a few days. Final Standings: 1. France – 7 points. 2. Switzerland – 4 points. 3. Honduras – 3.5 points (avg. 45%). 4. Ecurador – 3.5 points (avg. 41%)

ADMIN UPDATE: The final group game will be up this week – just need two more tracks for that one. Then it’s an Easter break and we’ll be back on Wednesday 23rd with the knockout stages. The knockouts will be two tracks per game, 3 games a week – very easy to participate in. There’s one rule change – repeat acts from the group stage ARE now allowed, but you can’t use anyone twice within the knockouts themselves. Whether anyone takes advantage of this, I’ve no idea!

And remember to go and vote in Group F, too.

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PWC14: Group F Finale (Nigeria, Iran, Argentina, Bosnia-Herzegovina https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-f-finale-nigeria-iran-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-f-finale-nigeria-iran-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina#comments Sun, 13 Apr 2014 22:31:53 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26746 dubioza Welcome to the final Group F game. Let’s see how things stand.

Pretty straightforwardly, as it happens, since both the earlier results in this group ran exactly the same way. Nigeria (managed by Cis) are through on 6 points, Bosnia-Herzegovina (managed by Scott) are eliminated with zero. Which leaves Iran (Wichita Lineman) in a strong position for the second qualifying place with 4 points, and Argentina (Chris) needing a win here on 2.

Songs and poll below the cut!

NIGERIA: Olamide – “Elada Mi”

“Olamide takes the field to give thanks for the grace that lets us play at this level. Truly we are blessed. We’re proud of our play so far; we have no need or desire to rest on our laurels; we face the future with hope and faith.”

IRAN: Baran – “100 Baar”

“The luxuriantly long-haired Baran dons her heels and jumps into a taxi out of Tehran, adding considerable verve – and a mazy ping-pong hook – to the now-familiar Iranian melancholy. It may sound like she sings “Vicky Icky”, but I’m sure she doesn’t really.”



ARGENTINA: Niko Cota – “Cool”

“Niko Cota is a Buenos Aires striker from the unheralded, but great, funk scene in Argentina. “Kool” uses progressive rhythms while recalling a more traditional (and classic) style of play. There’s a fluidity to “Kool” that propels throughout the song’s 4 1/2 minutes. This formation comes from Cota’s 2013 playbook, Escucha el Ritmo. It’s influenced by previous Argentine funk forward-strikers Illya Kuryaki and the Valderramas. This is a formation that throws a lot of funk and soul sounds at the defenders, waiting for opportune moment to strike.”

BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA: Dubiosa Kolectiv – “Kazu”

“It’s a shame BiH’s involvement in the Pop World Cup ends here, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still time to make an impression, and in this case, political points. Whether ‘Kažu”s ska bounce can gain some hitherto elusive Group F ones remains to be seen, but hopefully voters will have as much as fun with it as Dubioza do. Even Cristiano Ronaldo is mocked in the video, but with nothing left to lose it takes to his kind of showboating, all with a disdainful eye on the directors’ box.”

THE POLL

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: England’s “Golden Generation” of the early 00s may never have brought home a major trophy, but they do enough to get their side another 3-point haul and let England top Group D. Italy restore a bit of national pride with 2 points, which means Costa Rica’s 1 isn’t enough to see them through to qualification. The second spot goes to Uruguay, despite a nervy third game performance. They now face a rampant Japan side in the Round of 16: England’s opponents are Cote D’Ivoire. Congratulations to Ronald and Matthew. Commisserations to Pete and Andrew Hickey. Final standings: 1. England – 7 points. 2. Uruguay – 5 points. 3. Costa Rica – 4 points. 4. Italy – 2 points.

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PWC14: Group E Finale (France, Honduras, Switzerland, Ecuador) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-e-finale-france-honduras-switzerland-ecuador https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-e-finale-france-honduras-switzerland-ecuador#comments Wed, 09 Apr 2014 13:07:30 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26697 borisb Welcome to the Group E finale! Here’s how things stand.

France (managed by Jessica) have qualified with 6 points, and will top the group unless they come last here.

Honduras (managed by Kat) have 3.5 points. They will definitely qualify if they come first or second, and may do even if they don’t.

Switzerland (managed by Mullah Rezmat) have 1.5 points. They need to go for the win here and hope Honduras screw up.

Ecuador (managed by Meghan) have 1 point. They also need to go for the win and hope Honduras screw up.

To the songs and votes!

FRANCE: Charlotte Gainsbourg – “Terrible Angels”

“First of all, the French coach would like to credit able assistant coach Daniel Montesinos-Donaghy, who advised going with the Indila/Black M formation rather than making Indila run the ball all by her lonesome. Now in a safe spot, despite hard fights from the opponents, the coaching staff is retreating to plan strategies for the knockout round and trusting the pitch to a veteran. The result is either the worst combination of French complacency and Scientologist hooey, or the best possible soundtrack for walking down the middle of the street, alone, at 3 am with your head held high.”



HONDURAS: JCP y Fresh ft Jowell – “A Poca Luz 2”

“It’s now or never for the Hondureñas: time to bring out ‘Los Fabulosos’! JCP and Fresh are a heavy-scoring upfront partnership, happy to put the hard grind into the club leagues but also teaming up well with Jowell and the rest of the national squad on the big occasions (or indeed, on pretty much any occasion). Here they are recalling the time the floodlights at the ground blew out and they had to entertain a large contingent of female fans in the dark. By dressing up as vampires.”

SWITZERLAND: Boris Blank – “Random Tox”

“We flowed down, we stilled time, we are the pulsing air in you. Helvetica Bold.

Rezmat
Zermatt
Shaping You a New Space Hole”



ECUADOR: Fabrikante – “Chanteoma”

“Ecuador is abandoning all flights of fancy, and playing it safe on the final round by consulting a strategy analyst and then following their advice precisely.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Japan comfortably top Group C thanks to a dominant performance from one of their star players, winning the final group game with a solid margin. Cote D’Ivoire can’t quite pull away from Colombia but that high-scoring draw is enough to send them through in second place and 5.5 points. Colombia have endured a torrid campaign but can end it with some honour restored by their veteran striker. Greece, meanwhile, have a nightmare after their excellent second game, ending up third in the group after failing to pick up any points here. Commiserations to David Cooper Moore and Billy Dods, congratulations to Garry and Patrick St.Michel. Final standings: 1. Japan – 7 points. 2. Cote D’Ivoire – 5.5 points. 3. Greece – 3 points. 4. Colombia – 2.5 points.

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PWC14: Group D Finale (Uruguay, England, Costa Rica, Italy) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-d-finale-uruguay-england-costa-rica-italy https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/04/pwc14-group-d-finale-uruguay-england-costa-rica-italy#comments Thu, 03 Apr 2014 12:26:06 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26634 carnesi Welcome to the Group D finale! Here’s how things stand.

Uruguay (managed by Matthew) have 5 points. A win or second place will certainly see them through – even with other results qualification is still possible.

England (managed by Ronald) have 4 points. Basically, any result in which they place higher than Costa Rica will see them through, and some others too.

Costa Rica (managed by Pete) have 3 points. They have no certain route to qualification but a win should do it.

Italy (managed by Andrew Hickey) have 0 points and cannot qualify. But they can still have an effect on the destiny of the group….

URUGUAY: Campo – “Cumbio”

“With a slight edge over its competititors, Uruguay try to best England and Costa Rica on their own turf: a catchy electro number sung in English but named after a genre popular across Latin America. Campo are the reigning stars of Uruguayan pop.”

ENGLAND: Mutya Keisha Siobhan – “Flatline”

“After barely being beat for 2nd place last match, England is regrouping. Which leads us to this match’s song: a regrouping of the original version of the Sugababes. After various lineup changes which in the end left the group with no original members, the original members decided to give it a shot again after 12 years apart. With an assist in the writing and production department by fellow England player Dev Hynes, hopefully the lush production and vocal harmonies of Flatline don’t spell the end of England’s chances in this tournament.”

COSTA RICA: Debi Nova – “Drummer Boy”

“The Costa Rica team have looked at the two points they grasped in the last game and have decided it is time to put their star player on the pitch as a last ditch effort for qualification. And so with the not at all Christmassy Drummer Boy, we bring on the Costa Rican darling Debi Nova. Ok she might play regularly in the US Major Leagues now, but she is a proud Costa Rican (as evidenced by her membership of the LR1 supergroup) and her upcoming Spanish language only alubm Soy. Sadly Soy has not been released yet so I have had to go back to 2010 for this terrific track. Just don’t say the S word.”

ITALY: Nicolo Carnesi – “Il Colpo”

“Since we wuz robbed last time, I’m going with something more trad and sunshine pop, as recommended by PWC spectator Esteban. We may not have got through the group rounds, but we’re going out singing, with our heads held high…”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: After the patient tactics of their first two games left fans frustrated and their campaign in danger, Chile bounced back and got a big 3 points here, soundly beating the Netherlands into second place in the final Group B game. Australia, meanwhile, edged ahead of Spain to get a single point. But would it be enough? No – heartbreak for the Rockeroos as in a 3-way tie at the top of the group means they are squeezed out of qualification on percentage difference and get eliminated alongside Spain. Holland top the group and will play Croatia in the Round of 16, while Chile’s reward for their third-game heroics is a meeting with Cameroon. Thanks to all managers – congratulations to Job and lartsaegis, commiserations to Carsmile Steve and Matt.

Final Standings: 1. Netherlands – 5 points (avg 53%) 2. Chile – 5 points (avg 43%) 3.Australia – 5 points (avg 38%) 4. Spain – 3 points.

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PWC14: Group C Finale (Japan, Cote D’Ivoire, Greece, Colombia) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/03/pwc14-group-c-finale-japan-cote-divoire-greece-colombia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/03/pwc14-group-c-finale-japan-cote-divoire-greece-colombia#comments Mon, 31 Mar 2014 18:13:34 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26599 shakira Welcome to the final Group C match. Let’s see how things stand.

This group is a 3-way scrap. Japan (managed by Patrick St Michel) sit precariously on top with 4 points and a strong %-point difference. Cote D’Ivoire (managed by Garry) also have 4 points, and after their win in the second game Greece (managed by Billy Dods) have 3. All of these will go through with a win, and Japan or Cote D’Ivoire will be safe with second place. Meanwhile, Colombia have 1 point, and would only go through with an outrageously unlikely scoreline and combination of results. Though in the Results section below, you’ll see that Pop World Cup miracles do happen…

JAPAN: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu – “Ninja Re Bang Bang”

“Japan isn’t going to panic yet, and the squad plans to continue to try to have fun out on the pitch. But this match, the good times are focused on getting to the net. ‘Ninja Re Bang Bang’ is lithe but with purpose, flashes of aggression (swords!) in tow. And its the people’s favorite strategy – this is the most downloaded Japanese song of 2013.”

COTE D’IVOIRE: Toosh Impek – “Bougez La”

“It’s do-or-die but we are determined to continue playing with energy and exuberance right until the final whistle. While coup decale or zouk might serve our purposes, we’ve instead gone for shock selections from the Abidjan Hip-Hop League. It might normally be a hotbed of defensive muscle and niggling fouls but quicksilver attacking duo Toosh Impek turn on the flair while Biggy Boss provides a late runs into the box. The team is anchored by typically effervescent beats and… err… a man in a hat.”

GREECE: Tareq ft.Marietta Fafouti – “Cin Cin”

“Competition for the final round was tight with several strong contenders. For this match I’ve opted for two up front. Eschewing their usual styles of nu-disco and folk-pop respectively, Tareq and Marietta Fafouti update the unfashionable Eurovision formation to addictive effect. The result is as sweet as baklava and just as sticky, a real earworm of a track.”

COLOMBIA: Shakira – “Empire”

“Colombia’s management finally brings out the big guns as Shakira arrives on the field several weeks after being paged. She cites obligations with her new album and family for the delay. (She also mentions that she no longer owns a pager.)”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS:
It’s perhaps the biggest shock in Pop World Cup history as CROATIA pull off the miracle result they needed and join CAMEROON as Group A qualifiers, sending hosts Brazil crashing out. Croatia took the 3 points by a single vote over Cameroon, who top the group anyhow. Mexico get the first point of their campaign, a consolation. Brazil’s 0 points was the nightmare result for them, and fingers are pointing at the team doctor’s sensimilla regime. Thanks to Matt DC and Steve M for the excellent tracks they provided, and well done Chris and intothefireuk for making it to the knockout stages. We’ll see them again after Easter. Final Standings: 1. Cameroon – 7.5 points. 2. Croatia – 5 points. 3. Brazil – 4.5 points. 4. Mexico – 1 point.

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PWC14: Group B Finale (Australia, Netherlands, Spain, Chile) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-b-finale-australia-netherlands-spain-chile https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-b-finale-australia-netherlands-spain-chile#comments Wed, 26 Mar 2014 12:48:47 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26574 roku Welcome to the Group B finale. Let’s see how things stand.

Actually, this is a game where I wish I’d picked a less permutation-filled scoring system. Summary: everything to play for.

AUSTRALIA (Matt) have 4 points. A win or second-place means they’re home and dry.

NETHERLANDS (Job) have 3 points but a big %-of-votes lead over anyone else in the group, so in any kind of tie they will go through. A win or second-place will be fine for them too.

SPAIN (Carsmile Steve) also have 3 points. They will go through on a win, and should have a decent chance if second.

CHILE (lartsaegis) have 2 points and the simplest job: they have to go for the win. There is a potential combination which sees them go out even with a win, of course (and another where they go through with a 2nd place).

THAT’S ENOUGH PERMUTATING. Click to get to the songs, the poll, and the Group H results!

AUSTRALIA: Roku Music – “Reflector”

“Once more into the world of shoegaze – something the Aussies seem determined to dominate. Roku Music (http://rokumusic.com/) are from Brisbane (and seem to include Matt Berry amongst their members). As if to tackle the shoegaze-peer-comparison problem head on, they covered MBV and Slowdive on their debut EP – good work!”



NETHERLANDS: Rimer London ft Cata.Pirata – “Love Dagger”

“A slight change of tactics in the Dutch squad in the face of this last, crucial match of the group stage. “Love Dagger” might just do the trick here, charming its way into the next round. Producer Rimer London lays the foundation for a simple yet effective playing style, setting up singer Cata.Pirata to dash between the opponents’ defense.”

SPAIN: Alizzz – “Whoa”

“It’s CRUNCH time. not entirely sure my lads can handle the CRUNCH, there’s really not much strength in depth round here. Anyway, I like this track, takes a little while to get going, but then bounces and glides all over the pitch a little 70s here, 80s there, propulsive 00s beat almost everywhere. Don’t know very much about Alizzz, they appear to be Catalan and this track seems to be from last summer, but that’s about it… Hopefully it’ll be enough to push us into the last 16.”

CHILE: Astro – “Coco”

“Villalobos, Aguayo and I left Brazil in the team jet towards Chile — just us — the rest of the drafted team and reserves were left to enjoy the amenities that Brazil has to offer. Us three, we made a conscious decision to play Robert Hood’s Minimal Nation non-stop for the entire flight. Aguayo and Villalobos delivered us from aircraft cabin fever by remixing tracks on the fly as they saw fit after the third playthrough. All I could think of was how fitting it was: play minimal music, get minimal results, even with the country’s biggest international stars, grizzled veterans. We never spoke to each other. But I could detect the trace of a smile on all our faces, half out of anxiety for the future, half out of humor of the situation at hand: being the underdogs. All this talk about a group of death in G, and feeling so close to it in our own. Whole in hope was our answer to the question we shared in mind: Certainly, there’s more to Chile than this. And as we were touching down on a makeshift landing strip aside a dry lake near the Licancabur volcano, I saw Astro — rising stars in their own right — fielding one brilliant bloodrush of a tripped out rock cut along the the skin of a clearing. Just relieved of touring, they all wore kilts adorned with tessellated shapes, playing against a team of guanaco. For us three, it seemed that they were just what we needed. “Te queremos,” I said, as we threw them jerseys. Whatever happens, I extend the same gratitude to you.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Katherine St Asaph’s Algeria side bounce back to shock highly fancied South Korea and nick the 3 points in Group H. The Koreans take home 2 points – they are almost mathematically safe. As for Belgium and Russia, half a point each will satisfy neither team. Both teams can still qualify, but have an almighty scrap on their hands in the final group stage game. Standings: South Korea – 5. Algeria – 3. Belgium – 2.5. Russia – 1.5.

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PWC14: Group A Finale (Cameroon, Brazil, Croatia, Mexico) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-a-finale-cameroon-brazil-croatia-mexico https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-a-finale-cameroon-brazil-croatia-mexico#comments Mon, 24 Mar 2014 18:07:26 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26540 amanditititititita Welcome to our last Group A game. Let’s see how things stand.

Cameroon (managed by Chris) have QUALIFIED from the group with 5.5 points. Either they or Brazil will now top the group.

Brazil (managed by Matt DC) have 4.5 points. Anything other than last place in this game will mean they qualify no matter what other teams do.

Croatia (managed by intothefireuk) have 2 points. If they come first in this game and Brazil come last, they will qualify.

Mexico (managed by Steve M) have been ELIMINATED with 0 points.

Thanks to all the managers for some great tracks. As usual, poll below the cut, along with the nail-biting results from Group G.

CAMEROON: Reniss – “C’Est La Vie”

“Mighty/plucky Cameroon may have qualified for the knockout stages already, but we’re still playing for that top seed. I really like the dancing in this video (there is also a classic dudes-lowering-their-shades-at-the-singer moment).”

BRAZIL: Lei Di Dai – “Smoking Sensi”

“We may only need a point to qualify, but there are no easy games in this group and we can’t afford to be complacent. I’ve informed the players that anyone caught slacking off or giving less than 110% in this final game will be on the first plane home. One or two of them may have been on performance enhancing drugs, but since when was that illegal in pop football? We’re going all out to win it, with a formation that unashamedly copies Jamaican tactics and makes them our own. ATTACK ATTACK ATTACK!”

CROATIA: Pavel – “Cuvaj Me”

“Croatia are just hanging on by a thread in the group and with that in mind the team is in slightly sombre mood going into this last match. Still there is all to play for and as you know in football, anything is possible. If, however, the worst should happen this would act as a suitable soundtrack as the boys trudge off the pitch. Either way it’s been an absolute blast – may the best team win and thanks to Tom for making it all possible.”

MEXICO: Amandititita – “La Criada”

Sources close to the team have said the manager was ‘too upset’ to attend the pre-match press conference.

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: It’s squeaky bum time in Group G as Portugal’s decision to call in big names Buraka Som Sistema pays off – they take the 3 points, with USA getting 2 and Ghana 1. Which means that all three teams have 4 points and it’s a straight winner-takes all fight now. The only team not involved is poor Germany, whose second zero-point score leaves them with only honour to play for in the final game.

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PWC14: Group H Match 2 (South Korea, Belgium, Russia, Algeria) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-h-match-2-south-korea-belgium-russia-algeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-h-match-2-south-korea-belgium-russia-algeria#comments Wed, 19 Mar 2014 20:53:51 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26464 jambazi Even men with steel hearts love to see a dog on the pitch – except when it holds up a vital second group game in the Pop World Cup! In this case the rogue canine was cleverly disguised as a market research conference – sorry everyone. Back now, and so are South Korea’s Iain Mew, Belgium’s Glynn, Russia’s Chelovek Na Lune and Algeria’s Katherine St Asaph. The fans went wild for Girls’ Generation – can Korea do it again, or can their rivals catch up?

Four tracks, two votes – poll below the cut, and very belated Group F results too.

SOUTH KOREA: Lee Hyori – “Bad Girls”
Current Points: 3

“We’re pleased with the first result but not getting carried away, especially after recent (ice-based) precedent in Korea v Russia match-ups. This time, we’re turning to a relatively veteran striker who has honed her skills over more than a decade playing in the Korean leagues. The formation, devised by the same coaching team as “I Got a Boy”, takes an energetic but steadier approach, with Lee backed up by some fine surf guitar work in midfield. A bit of the warm-up is on display, so skip to 0:35 if you want to get right to kick off.”



BELGIUM: Stoplight – “Nothing More”

Current Points: 2

“When you look up StopLight’s stats on Football Manager you see 7s and 8s for flair and creativity, but 15s and 16s for determination and work rate. Which is to say, while not tearing up any trees, its nice to see Belgium can crank out quirky, indie-pop bands like the best of them (Field Music and Passion Pit are two names that spring to mind). Possibly more one to watch for 2016’s Pop Euros, but a tidy little tune thats surprisingly effective coming off the bench for the final 15 minutes.”

RUSSIA: Fike & Jambazi – “Otpusti Menya”
Current Points: 1

“Masters of the far too little-known Russian hip hop formation, noted for their introspection and intelligence, Fike (the main rapper, whose rhymes flow like the Kama or the Volga just after the ice has melted), and Jambazi (who throws in dramatic vocal interjections once in a while), ably accompanied by a sampled uncredited female singer, serve up a a break-up track that stings. It’s all about emotional entrapment and then loss, interjected with philosophical questions about the nature of love and on the nature of truth and falsehood. You almost call it a Russian D.A.I.S.Y. age number, were it not for the pervasive sense of melancholy and thwarted hopes. The track, perhaps like the relationship it documents, starts mysteriously, eventually gets going, slowly at first, builds and builds, and then suddenly it fades out. “Release Me”, they demand in the belatedly introduced chorus. And then, more suddenly than seems right or just, release is granted, and the track is over.”



ALGERIA: Cheb Hassen, “Ghir hiya mankhalihache”

Current Points: 0

“I listened to a ton of Algerian pop radio in preparation for this match (and to stave off the cold dark 6 p.m.s); this was one of my favorites, one chunky motif and its filigrees.”



THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

THE RESULTS: In Group F, despite some dramatic shifts in playing style (and some very good tracks), we see exactly the same result as in the first game. Nigeria’s Temi Dollface makes the Champions’ passage to the second round a stroll. Iran are in a strong position with a second two-point score. Argentina are in contention but need something to click in the third game. And sadly, Bosnia-Herzegovina can book their tickets home, and are playing for pride in the third match. Standings: Nigeria – 6 points. Iran – 4 points. Argentina – 2 points. Bosnia-Herzegovina – 0 points.

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PWC14: Group G Match 2 (Ghana, USA, Portugal, Germany) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-g-match-2-ghana-usa-portugal-germany https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-g-match-2-ghana-usa-portugal-germany#comments Thu, 13 Mar 2014 17:04:18 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26405 seeed Group G’s middle game sees Ghana (Jonathan Bogart) in front after narrowly beating the USA (The Lex) last time. Behind them come Portugal (Weej) and Germany (Tak) who will be looking to make more of an impact on this very tough group.

As ever, play the four songs and vote for two below the cut – where you’ll also find the Group E results and our first European qualifier for the knockout stages!

GHANA: Becca ft 2Face – “Badman Badgirl”

Current Points: 3

“We’ve opted to go with a more traditional forward lineup this time round, playing the breezy-but-technical game that brought the Ghana squad to international attention way back in the 60s. The back half is all heavy modern bruisers, though, and our star striker can run rings round the pitch without breaking a sweat.”

USA: K.Michelle – “Hit ‘Em In The Mouth”
Current Points: 2

“One of the most striking new voices in R&B finally got her (excellent) debut album proper out last year, but back in her mixtape days she was even more pugnacious – but not without good reason. No one will want to mess with her on the pitch.”

PORTUGAL: Buraka Som Sistema – “Hangover (Ba Ba Ba)”
Current Points: 1

“There comes a time in any Portugal manager’s career when he has to break open the box marked ‘Buraka Som Sistema’. That time is now.”

GERMANY: Seeed – “Deine Zeit”
Current Points: 0

“German reggae/dancehall isn’t, as far as I know, a well explored category. But this offbeat number, complete with big-band inspired horn section and brass band number, is quite the addictive head-nodder.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Congratulations to FRANCE, who have qualified for the knockout stages and look set to top Group E after a second consecutive three point haul. Behind them are Honduras, who pick up 1.5 points after tying with Switzerland. Ecuador end up with the wooden spoon and no points from this game. What does it all mean? Honduras will qualify with another 2nd place finish or better. Switzerland or Ecuador will go through if they win and Honduras come last. Other results may well go down to the dreaded percentage point shoot-out. It’s a nail-biter! (Except for France). Standings: France – 6 points. Honduras – 3.5 points. Switzerland – 1.5 points. Ecuador – 1 point.

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PWC14: Group F Match 2 (Nigeria, Iran, Argentina, Bosnia-Herzegovina) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-f-match-2-nigeria-iran-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-f-match-2-nigeria-iran-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina#comments Mon, 10 Mar 2014 16:43:53 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26378 leila The second Group F match finds Nigeria (managed by Cis) in pole position, riding a wave of appreciation for African pop. Charged with getting past them are Iran (Wichita Lineman) and Argentina (Chris B) with Bosnia-Herzegovina (Scott M) needing points quickly.

As usual, you have two votes between the four tracks. The poll is below the cut, and so is the Group D results, with a second team exiting the tournament….

NIGERIA: Temi Dollface – “Pata Pata”
Current Points: 3

“Here at Team Naija we’re delighted with the support our first team received from the crowd, and you’ll detect a little of the same retro flair to this next squad’s visual performance. Everything else, though, we’re switching up: more menace, more bass, a sharper hook, and a more eccentric line past the opposition.”

IRAN: Leila – “Eight”
Current Points: 2

“Strongly reminiscent of late 90s electronica – misty-eyed, melodic, lovely shifting synth chords – Leila summons up the spirit of Boards Of Canada, Isan and their brethren. But she is clearly harking back to the late 90s for another reason – Iran’s victory in the France ’98 World Cup against the United States, the greatest triumph in the history of Iranian football.”

ARGENTINA: Alika And Nueva Alianze – “Jengibre”
Current Points: 1

“Alika is a MC from Buenos Aires whose music blends hip hop and reggae, or as one local, beat reporter put it, she’s “an MC to hip hop fans and a DJ to the reggae masses.” There’s a confidence that comes through in this formation that will be necessary to pull Argentina up from third place after a disappointing showing in the first match. “Jengibre” comes from her 2014 album Mi Palabra Mi Alma. Alika’s career has been defined by both forward-thinking hip hop and populist activism. “Jengibre” is a perfect example of why the pop football hopes of Argentina are riding on her shoulders, and it’s a challenge she’s been waiting a generation for.”



BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA: Dijana Bliznac – “Zivot Nema Reprizu”

Current Points: 0

“After a humbling first outing in the Pop World Cup it seems prudent to begin swapping experience for the exuberance of youth. Dijana Bliznac has made a big impression in her first season in the turbo-folk top flight, here bringing a Balkan touch to the pioneering Romanian dance-pop formation. In truth though she’s just dancing through the pain, the title translating as ‘Life Has No Re-Run’. Clearly she’s well aware of the need to get points on the board, but also that disco sadness transcends language.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Uruguay’s back-to-indie-basics style didn’t do much for the commentary box but their workrate let them pull off a famous victory against underperforming or unlucky opposition. 3 points for them, and they’re in the Group D driving seat. Meanwhile, Costa Rica edged England to the 2 points, leaving the plucky Central American minnows with a real shot at qualification. England don’t need to panic yet, but it’s fair to say this is a setback. And sadly we say goodbye to Italy, who drew a blank again and cannot now qualify from the group. Their performance next game might make all the difference to other teams’ fortunes, though.

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PWC14: Group E Match 2 (France, Honduras, Ecuador, Switzerland) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-e-match-2-france-honduras-ecuador-switzerland https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/03/pwc14-group-e-match-2-france-honduras-ecuador-switzerland#comments Thu, 06 Mar 2014 19:12:24 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26369 mckenzi Group E’s second game sees France (managed by Jessica) looking for the win that will see them through to the knockout phase. Giant-killers Honduras (Kat) will be trying to build on their fine early start, with Ecuador (Megan) and Switzerland (Mullah Rezmat) hoping for improved second-game fortunes.

Click through for the tracks, the poll (pick 2 of 4), and results from Group C.

FRANCE: Indila feat. Black M — “Dernière danse”
Current Points: 3

“The French manager was pleasantly surprised to win the first group match. But the other three will be redoubling their efforts; this is no time to get complacent. Let’s switch up the roles a bit — now the female voice, in this case Indila, is leading the attack, with Black M of Sexion d’Assaut providing support — and exhort Les Bleus to play as if each game is their very last. Will it work? Does the track’s sense of dread update French cool, or diminish it? Either way this squad is on the pitch to play.”

HONDURAS: Xpansul & Alessio Mereu – “Moldy Oscillator”
Current Points: 2

“The beaches of Honduras see plenty of sun-kissed open-air raving, so it’s no great surprise to discover True Type Tracks, a cracking techno label based on the island paradise of Utila. Xpansul is the head honcho of the operation; he and his label mate Alessio have happily ignored the lovely weather outside and instead served up some wonky old bosh that could probably cure several types of bacterial infection if you put it in a petri dish.”

ECUADOR: Sunshine And The Mackenzi Sound – “We Are All Alone”
Current Points: 1

“Team Ecuador returns a legitimate threat: murder. Don’t let the folksy sweetness of Sunshine and the Mackenzi Sound fool you, “We Are All Alone,” with great exuberance, draws a scene of domestic dysfunction, champions matricide, and departs, cooing “I can’t be painted on your wall/I’ll be flying away but I will be happy.” It’s a charming entrant in the jailbird pop genre.”

SWITZERLAND: Sophie Hunger – “Le Vent Nous Portera”
Current Points: 0

“Bellow like a BEHEMOTH then swing like a SQUEE er TWEE um HOTTIE no wait shut up for YES your puny submontane outlander LINGUISTICISM cannot encompass the rich etruscan swiss delicacy of this formation making you in a very real sense YET AGAIN the loser bcz YES

Rezmat
Zermatt
The World This Time
The Polyverse”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: After a thumping in their opening game, Greece stormed back to top the second Group C poll. They still have a tough job ahead of them to get past Cote D’Ivoire, who coolly picked up a second 2-point score, and Japan, who dominated the first game but slipped to third, and 1 point, here. Colombia are in trouble – with no extra points they’ll need a big win and hope other sides slip up. It’s mathematically possible, but only just. Current standings. JAPAN: 4 points. COTE D’IVOIRE: 4 points. GREECE: 3 points. COLOMBIA: 1 point.

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PWC14: Group D Match 2 (England, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Italy) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/03/pwc14-group-d-match-2-england-uruguay-costa-rica-italy https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/03/pwc14-group-d-match-2-england-uruguay-costa-rica-italy#comments Mon, 03 Mar 2014 22:02:58 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26343 Carmen Sandiego England (managed by Ronald) top Group D at the moment – sparking tabloid frenzy back home – while Uruguay (Matthew), Costa Rica (Pete) and Italy (Andrew Hickey) will be looking to stop their momentum. It could be a closely fought group, with mind games aplenty as several managers have played down their chances of progress.

Four tracks, two votes – the poll is below the cut, along with the latest Group B standings.

ENGLAND: Natalia Kills – “Controversy”
Current Points: 3

“After winning the first match, England wants to show that it’s not all the same thing like some of its detractors think. England has a style but that style has many facets, some expected and some unexpected. Our next player up is Natalia Kills with her second album’s buzz single, Controversy. The West Yorkshire-born, London-raised Kills has dabbled in various genres over her career, including a run as a teen pop rapper named Verbalicious in the mid 00s. Controversy starts of with some instrumental that wouldn’t sound out of place on a 1950s tv show but then some bitchy voicemail comes and the song goes in a different direction. It gets harder, heavier. The song is more of a drone/chant than your typical pop song. But it still makes you want to bop.”

URUGUAY: Carmen Sandiego – “Generacion 2002”
Current Points: 2

“Where in the world is Carmen Sandiego? Oh, that’s right, making a stab at the goal while in the guise of a twee Uruguayan man. Los Uruguayos want to keep the UK on their toes, hence the surprise tactical switch after Dani Umpi’s flashy yet noble efforts in Round 1. Plus Carmen’s got a surprisingly strong kick, considering.”

COSTA RICA: Patterns – “Martian”
Current Points: 1

“After hours of digging through the no-good metal mines of Costa Rica, and skirting the “not sure if anyone even likes this anymore ” Reggaeton suburbs of San Jose, the task of being Costa Rica’s manager seemed almost impossible. And yet, there, in a roadside shack was an impressive funk dance fourpiece who, for whatever you might feel about the dated eighties smoothness of the track, were tight, bought the song in on time and scored where it matters. Lord knows why its called Martian though.

ITALY: Baustelle – “La Natura”
Current Points: 0

“La Natura by Baustelle is from their award-winning 2013 album Fantasma (no relation to the Cornelius album of the same name) and is a break from their normal Scott Walker-meets-Depeche Mode style for something altogether lighter and more melodic.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Group B has suddenly got a lot tighter after Spain’s John Talabot track netted them 3 points. Australia make steady progress with another 2, Chile grab a solitary point, and Netherlands perhaps suffer from being made to play their game behind closed doors: 0 points to them. Which means the standings are: Australia – 4 points. Netherlands – 3 points. Spain – 3 points. Chile – 2 points. The winner of the third game will definitely qualify, but beyond that all sorts of permutations are possible, and this one may go to percentage totals, where Holland’s first game performance gives them a distinct advantage.

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PWC14: Group C Match 2 (Japan, Cote D’Ivoire, Colombia, Greece) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-c-match-2-japan-cote-divoire-colombia-greece https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-c-match-2-japan-cote-divoire-colombia-greece#comments Thu, 27 Feb 2014 17:37:44 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26322 especia Group C’s second game finds a confirmation that David Cooper Moore has been given the Colombia manager’s job full-time after impressing with his urgent substitution in Game 1. He’ll be looking to build on a point, while Japan (Patrick St Michel) and Cote D’Ivoire (Garry McKenzie) seek to capitalise on strong starts. Rounding out the group is Greece (Billy Dods) – yet to find the net. All of that could change with your votes!

4 tracks, 2 votes, below the cut – as well as news of our first ELIMINATION.

JAPAN: Especia – “Midnight Confusion”
Current Points: 3

“The Japanese squad grabbed the field’s attention and trampled through our first match, and now we enter phase two – showing our playful side off. We want to charm the world this time around (and conserve some energy), and Osaka girl-group Especia’s bouncy ‘Midnight Confusion’ works wonder. It’s catchy but also a bit unpredictable (that saxophone solo!) and comes with a hell of a chorus. Eyes on us, hopefully.”

COTE D’IVOIRE: Meiway ft Black Kent – “Couvre Feu”
Current Points: 2

“Cote D’Ivoire management are happy with the enthusiasm and energy shown by the team in the first round, but feel a few tactical tweaks are required . After packing the midfield in the opening game we’ve decided to switch to a zouk-kompa formation with two strikers to give us a more direct route to goal. This allows our veteran target man Meiway to forge a slick partnership with Black Kent playing in his usual free(style) role.”

COLOMBIA: Esteman ft Monsieur Perrine – “Ooh La La”
Current Points: 1

“After a grueling scramble to substitute in Match 1, the Colombian team catches its breath with a textbook Skiffle Charm Offense. Don’t let the light fancy footwork here fool you — Colombia is regrouping for a big play down the line.”

GREECE: Bang La Decks – “Utopia”
Current Points: 0

“Monika gained some plaudits for her possession game, but unfortunately played too deep and couldn’t convert this to points. For this round I’ve opted for a more pressing game and have called up to the squad Athens hottest duo, Bang La Decks. In the past year they’ve created a big splash in the Balkan and Greek leagues, but can their sound translate to the world stage? Utopia is their second single and shows they’re not afraid to mix things up. Will it be enough to get the Greek campaign off the ground?”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

THE RESULTS: Our first DRAW of the Pop World Cup 2014 in Group A, as both Brazil and Cameroon grab 2.5 points. Croatia get 1 and Mexico get 0. What does this mean for the group? It’s bad news for Mexico – failure to score in either game means they cannot now quality for the knockout stages – they’ll be playing for pride in Game 3. It’s not great news for Croatia either, their 2 points give them only the slenderest chance of progress. Brazil are almost home and dry on 4.5 points, and Cameroon have are through to the knockouts with 5.5. So not quite “all to play for”, but this group hasn’t let the listener down yet and I expect the final group game to be an exciting proposition anyhow.

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PWC 14: Group B Match 2 (Netherlands, Australia, Chile, Spain) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc-14-group-b-match-2-netherlands-australia-chile-spain https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc-14-group-b-match-2-netherlands-australia-chile-spain#comments Mon, 24 Feb 2014 18:53:14 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26301 Hydroboyz Group B finds the Netherlands (Job) in pole position, but with a point to prove after commentators speculated their first-game victory was down to crowd intimidation. Meanwhile, Australia (Matt) look to build on a decent start, and it’s a vital game for Chile (lartsaegis) and Spain (Carsmile).

Four songs, two votes – below the cut.

NETHERLANDS: Hydroboyz – “Hindabuilding”
Current Points: 3

“After having the Oranje army sent home for hooliganism in the first round, the Dutch squad is keen to show it can advance based purely on pop football skills. Not looking to play a quiet game, it is, in fact, upping the ante faced with joylessly empty stands. With “Hindabuilding” we are playing a certified street anthem, a proper “banger” as they say round here. Amsterdam’s HydroBoyz build their attack during the verses, scoring each time the chorus echoes around the stadium.”

AUSTRALIA: The Preatures – “Is This How You Feel?”
Current Points: 2

“This track was, it seems, used in an Elle commercial, but i forgive it for that. I also forgive the bit in the middle of the song where the man starts singing. I forgive a lot about this song, cos it’s damn catchy.”

CHILE: Matias Aguayo ft. Jorge González & Liset Alea – “Una Fiesta Diferente”
Current Points: 1

“It’s almost too easy to think of Matias Aguayo next in relation to fellow countryman Ricardo Villalobos: both are of Chilean-German nationality, their parents having emigrated with them from Chile to Germany as a result of Pinochet. Both are internationally renowned house producers and DJs who both helped pioneer the minimal Berlin sound before it got trite (mini mal, maybe). Both left the genre behind to further cultivate their sound. If you’re expecting the same playstyle from Aguayo, Una Fiesta Diferente is a different set piece altogether, seemingly more engineered for his Situationist-esque bumbumbox street parties than the insular headspace of a club. But then again, Matias — a self-professed Visitor — doesn’t forget where he came from, nor of where he goes the world over. “House was always the place for the aliens,” he says. Jorge González of PWC 2010’s Los Prisioneros makes a return alongside Liset Alea from Nouvelle Vague in a fun, yet technical formation that’s probably a little foreign where ever played.”

SPAIN: John Talabot – “So Will Be Now (Club Revision)”
Current Points: 0

“Round two finds the Spanish camp in turmoil, stick with the same game plan and risk humiliation, or change everything we believe in, in an attempt to curry favour with the crowd, or just play something really good and see how it goes.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: Group H finds South Korea make a confident start to a group they have been hotly tipped to win, taking home 3 points. Belgium pressed them close, though, and will look to build on their 2 points. Russia may feel frustrated by a single point, though, and Algeria will certainly be looking for a better result after failing to score in the first game.

Still available! The second Group A match is a cracker and has 3 short days left to run – don’t miss it.

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PWC14: Group A Match 2 (Cameroon, Brazil, Croatia, Mexico) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-a-match-2-cameroon-brazil-croatia-mexico https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-a-match-2-cameroon-brazil-croatia-mexico#comments Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:50:25 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26267 luisa The second round of group matches kicks off, and there’s all to play for in Group A. Cameroon (Chris) and Brazil (Matt DC) will look to build on their early advantage, Croatia (intothefireuk) and Mexico (Steve M) have ground to make up. The rules are exactly the same as in the first round – four tracks, you vote for two of them.

CAMEROON: Museba – “Bom Bom Bom”
Current Points: 3

“The interplay between synth blasts and finger-snaps here brings to mind a particularly lithe dribble.”


BRAZIL: Luisa Maita – “Fulaninha (Da Lata Remix)”

Current Points: 2

“While the Brazilian camp are happy with our start to the tournament, there have already been some rumblings from our hugely demanding fanbase. For Brazilians, its not enough just to get points on the board, they want us to win with flair as well. To that end, we give you popular songwriter Luisa Maita, given a rock solid dancehall rework. We want to beguile you…. and make you dance at the same time.”

CROATIA: Batida – “Uspomena”
Current Points: 1

“Having been sadly out-muscled by some dodgy off the ball antics in the last game we have had to had a re-think on tactics. This time round we’ve gone for a more flexible formation and introduced a smooth jazzy passing game with some deft latin touches. This should fit right in with the Brazilian vibe with its lovely warm Astrud Gilberto-ish leanings. No vuvuzelas here but there is plenty of flute action for those that enjoy such things.”

MEXICO: Hello Seahorse! – “Para Mi”
Current Points: 0

“As I said to the lads after the last match ‘Always outrunning but not quite outplaying…BASTA!’ Now perhaps we can drift forward but not offside with more grace and subtlety and charm the ball into the back of your hearts.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: The battle at the top of Group G gets decided in extra time, as Ghana pips USA to the 3 points by the narrowest of margins: the Americans will have to settle for 2. Further down the group, Moullinex picks up a point for Portugal, and Germany’s campaign gets off to a shaky start with 0 points from this round.

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PWC14: Group H Match 1 (Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-h-match-1-belgium-algeria-russia-south-korea https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-h-match-1-belgium-algeria-russia-south-korea#comments Mon, 17 Feb 2014 14:42:53 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26255 ggen The last of our 32 teams take the global pop stage, including South Korea, a side whose profile has rarely been higher – after a strong showing in the 2010 tournament, could this be their year? Iain Mew is in the managerial hotseat. Trying to stop him are Katherine St Asaph’s Algeria, Chelovek Na Lune’s Russia, and Belgium, managed by Glynn.

Before kick-off, though, a minute’s applause in memory of our FT friend – and former Algeria boss – Martin Skidmore. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Pop World Cup concept, never missed a vote, and was especially passionate about the Algeria side he steered in the 2010 competition. We still miss him enormously, across every aspect of the site and well beyond. Thanks Martin, once again, for your unflagging support for others’ projects as well as all your own excellent ideas.

4 tracks, 2 votes – the choice is yours, below the cut.

BELGIUM: Stromae – “Tous Les Memes”

“While their football team somehow quietly became one of the best in Europe whilst noone was looking, Belgium’s pop charts in recent years haven’t been quite so healthy, instead providing a glimpse of a dystopian world where Electroclash never died. With big names Deus (metatarsal) and Soulwax (groin) out of contention, its fallen to Stromae, a flair player with your nan’s haircut and a great line in slinky little Europop gems like this one, to pick up the slack. I still can’t decide if hes Belgium’s Bowie or their Mika, but hes certainly not boring.

Here he is dispensing wisdom on a gondola.”

ALGERIA: Cheb Houssem ft. Cheb Dalila – “Aatini la reponse”

“Algerian-Parisian rai with a lush foundation — it’s got Everything But the Girl, one might say — and a meandering groove. Note the autotune (it’s hard not to); its use in Algerian and Moroccan music predates its T-Pain-led U.S. counterparts by several years and interlocks with the genre’s traditional glissando to striking effect.”

RUSSIA: Polina Gagarina – “Spektakl’ okonchen”

“The Russian Federation selection squad have hunted high and low across our many time zones and diverse regions for the most skilled, most inventive players, in order that we may receive our just desserts, in this World Cup of Popularness. To start with we have resolved to take an unpretentious, un-hipster (even nye-stilyaga), classic, back to basics, ochen khorosho, no-nonsense, purely pop, approach. For our recipe, we have the vital ingredients of: a fine song (written by one of nash leading pop songwriters, Konstantin Meladze); and a singer with the stunningmost of stunning voices, Polina Gagarina. She initially came to public attention by winning one of those TV talent show series some years back, but shunned the path of easy and unchallenging fame to take her own route to artistry. That said she did return recently with a part in a televised “Russia vs Ukraine” singing contest: naturally (there can be no doubt about this) Russia won, as no other way would have been permitted. The video of this song is filmed in Ukraine none the less, as those of you familiar with its capital city may recognise. She has sung in the Kremlin, in Abkhazia, even in London’s Trafalgar Square. With Slavic Brotherhood and the Best of Eurasian Pop this tournament too shall be ours. Happy End. Spasibo.[/sinister Russian accent]”

SOUTH KOREA: Girls’ Generation – “I Got A Boy”

“At the time of the last World Cup, K-Pop was barely starting to come to wider attention. Things have changed. In the last couple of years we’ve had Korean acts scoring UK number ones, appearing on will.i.am albums and winning international awards, and our team may have lost somewhat of an element of surprise. We’re starting off with the winner of the 2013 YouTube award for best video regardless though, relying on the force and tactical fluidity of Girls’ Generation’s play to win through.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.


RESULTS:
Champions Nigeria get their PWC defense off to the best possible start, with Tiwa Savage netting 3 points from Group F. It was still a closely fought group, with Iran (2 points) and Argentina (1 point) also grabbing votes. A baptism of fire for debutants Bosnia-Herzegovina, though – 0 points and a tactical rethink probably needed. Well done to all managers and see you in the second batch of games!

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PWC14: Group G Match 1 (Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-g-match-1-germany-portugal-ghana-usa https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-g-match-1-germany-portugal-ghana-usa#comments Thu, 13 Feb 2014 18:16:36 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26236 eazzy_pics Is this the Group of Death? That’s what early pundits dubbed Group G, featuring pop giant the USA up against three nations with deep musical heritages of their own – Ghana, Germany and Portugal. Taking on managerial responsibilities are Tak for Germany, Weej for Portugal, Jonathan Bogart for Ghana and long-term USA gaffer The Lex.

The format should be familiar by now – listen to the four tracks, allot your two votes in the poll below the cut. To battle!

GERMANY: Anajo – “Madchenmusik”

“A jolly 2 minute slice of Bavarian Indie Pop. As Franz Ferdinand aimed to make rock music for girls to dance to, Anajo have aped the ambition and gone one further and named their song by this mantra. While I’m not sure how history maps the amount of influence that floppy-haired post-heyday Brit-pop made on the German charts, this is energetic and catchy enough to at least get a few of those too-cool-for-school indie chicks swaying.”

PORTUGAL: Moullinex – “Sunflare”

“The Portuguese management are fully aware that there are no easy games in the group of death – that’s why we’re bringing out a star striker for the opening fixture. After a few successful seasons in the Deutsch Elektronische Musik Liga, Moullinex (two Ls, he’s not a food mixer) is returning to represent his home country with a stunning display of fancy footwork.”

GHANA: Eazzy – “Wengeze”

“Ghana’s record in the regional and continental matches speaks for itself. While some commentators complain that the squad relies too heavily on the azonto formation that’s brought them success over the past four years, star players like Eazzy show that it’s possible to maintain the formation while still playing with idiosyncratic flair, style and aggression.”

USA: Trina ft Gunplay & Ice Berg – “Beam”

“My dream is to see an Olympic gymnast do her beam routine to this: wouldn’t those drum rolls, bursts of horns, flashes of beatboxing and that great cascading piano be absolutely perfect for all manner of lithe, athletic feats? And, of course, the pure elation in nailing something so perfectly.”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: In our tightest match yet in Group E, France will be delighted to have squeaked through at the top and got 3 points on the board. Second were Honduras, again underlining that these supposed minnows are a force to be reckoned with. Ecuador take home a point from a tight group, and Switzerland’s aggressive tactics won them admirers in the commentary box, but have not translated to goals quite yet. All to play for in the second game!

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PWC14: Group F Match 1 (Argentina, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran, Nigeria) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/02/pwc14-group-f-match-1-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina-iran-nigeria https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/02/pwc14-group-f-match-1-argentina-bosnia-herzegovina-iran-nigeria#comments Mon, 10 Feb 2014 12:48:08 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26223 frikstailers Group F is home to one of our Pop World Cup debutants, Bosnia-Herzegovina, who have been thrown into a highly unpredictable group. They’re making their first PWC appearance next to Iran, who stormed to the semis of the 2006 tournament, Argentina, who will be looking to avenge a couple of frustrating competitions, and defending Pop World Champions Nigeria, fresh from a four-year residence on top of the Freaky Trigger header bar.

It’s Scott M for Bosnia, Chris B for Argentina, Wichita Lineman for Iran, and Cis for Nigeria. 4 tracks, 2 votes, off you go!

ARGENTINA: Frikstailers – “Murga del Guachin”

“The production duo of Rafa Caivano and Lisandro Sona have long been part of the local cumbia leagues, but with “Murga del Guachin” (helpfully translated by Google as “Murga of Guachin”), Córdoba’s Frikstailers are playing a global game with their 2013 single. It’s a high energy, up-front genre-bending formation that uses elements of hip hop, dubstep, and pop, while also including a nod to its cumbia roots with a uniquely South American style of play. The unpredictable formation may lead to some confusion on the field, it’s the slow-burning bassline that provides the needed stability in the backfield.”

BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA: Dino Merlin – “Undo”

“In a move inspired by Roger Milla, I’m roping in an accomplished veteran beloved by his country for their first outing here. He’s twice represented them with reasonable success on the European stage, but now is the time for him to make the step up to the world’s premier competition. Where Milla is remembered for his exuberant dancing at the corner flag though, Merlin sinks to his knees there, bellowing in the rain. It’s on that kind of passion World Cups are won and lost. That and having the best players anyway.”

IRAN: Nariman ft Saeed Panter – “Naz Nakon”

“Nariman drives his Persian ice cream van to the edge of the pitch. Saeed Panter does his Einar-esque turn as Nariman dishes out the uranium-enriched 99s.”

NIGERIA: Tiwa Savage – “Eminado”

“Pop football friends! Nigeria is delighted to be here in Brazil, ready to do our best in the most beautiful of games once more. The global standard of pop football is at its peak in this tournament, and there’s everything to play for – everything, and Naija pride too. We’re coming out strong and nimble this time with relentless pop striker Tiwa Savage, supported by veteran defenceman Don Jazzy. After an extensive apprenticeship in the UK and US leagues, Tiwa returned to home soil in 2010 in the wake of Nigeria’s PWC success under celebrated gaffer Matt DC. She’s got a deft touch on the ball, keeps the ball high and candy-sweet, but underpinning all that lightness there’s an indefatigability, a relentlessness, that we hope will demolish all resistance. “Eminado” means “good-luck charm”: best of luck to everyone in this group, and may the best team win!”

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: England romp home at the top of Group D and make 3 points look easy – with typical restraint, the tabloids are talking about a knighthood for manager Ronald. A good showing for Uruguay, too – 2 points there. Costa Rica pip Italy to the remaining point – a decent platform for the plucky Costa Ricans, but there may be inquests in the Italian camp.

The poll for Group E is still open – it’s very close as of writing.

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PWC14: Group E Match 1 (Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/02/pwc14-group-e-match-1-switzerland-ecuador-france-honduras https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/02/pwc14-group-e-match-1-switzerland-ecuador-france-honduras#comments Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:19:56 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26186 nino-y-og5 THERE ARE NO MINNOWS IN POP FOOTBALL. And Group E is proof, being home to the mighty Honduras, shock semi-finalists in the 2010 Tournament, and Europop 2010 stars Switzerland. France and Ecuador are pretty handy too. Managers this time out include Kat for Honduras, Megan for Ecuador, Jessica for France and the ever-enigmatic REZMAT for Switzerland.

Who will take the honours in this first round of songs? Who will be sent to the stands? The choice is yours. Vote for 2 out of 4 – the poll is below the songs which are below – THE CUT.

SWITZERLAND: Eluveitie – “Kingdom Come Undone”

eluveitie SIC NUNTIAT RESMASTUS MULLA, citizen coach: “Down we swept, that coldest of Alpen mornings, from our high frozen fastnesses and a Million Mighty Metal Matterhorns, into and across the smug plain footless plains of the leagues of our invader foes , the mighty uilleann ghostwind of Hannibal’s myrmidon celtic elephants full at our backs, and all the righteousness of liberation our wings and er centre-halfs and such. All Helvetios was divided into 26 Cantons? All? No! One eerie eyrie of indomitable unabsorbed Etrusco-Gauls still holds out against the Imperialist Global Running Sore, to menace the vasty paxo wastelands of defeated pseudo-musical flat mimsy sameness with RIFFING PEAKY TALLTH. Our goal is victory! All our many goals are the banana’d very nutmeg of triumph itself! WINTERTHUR is COMING, and the PEOPLE’S REVOLUTIONARY ETRURIA shall again be FROSTED FREE! This is high-pass humanity’s adamantine resolve! Stand and deliver YOUR MEAGRE SCORELINES!”

ECUADOR: Villano – “Dime Que Hacer

“Here is “Dime Que Hacer” by Villano, a buzzy rush of power pop from Guayaquil, Ecuador that you’d never guess accompanies a testament to the toll alcoholism takes. Kind of a bummer, but that juxtaposition is classic. Practice your air riffs or cry, your call.”

[soundcloud]https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/104339434[/soundcloud]


FRANCE: Youssoupha ft Ayna – “On Se Connait”

“Les Bleus go in with a few handicaps: a rookie manager, a moribund pop scene, and two successful strikers — Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Baltanger — benched for overexposure. But like the actual French football team, the pop side has the advantage, however dubiously acquired, of drawing from talent descended from France’s former colonies. Thus a son of the late Tabu Ley Rochereau leads the initial charge onto the pitch, with the air of self-assured fun properly à la française.”

HONDURAS: Niño y OG5 – “Súbele El Volumen”

“The Honduras management are pleased to see the big players aren’t pulling their punches for the group stages – we’re absolutely relishing the prospect of a quality tournament, Brian. Our solid reggaeton back four have built on their predecessors’ excellent showing in the 2010 PWC, and we can confidently whistle at the opposition to Pump Up Their Volumes! And not just because we can’t find our headphones!”

[soundcloud]api.soundcloud.com/tracks/4904625[/soundcloud]

THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

THE RESULTS: Japan’s aggression left their opponents stunned and terrified, and they took 3 points at a canter. Cote D’Ivoire rode out the storm to some extent at least, with 2 points out of this first game. Colombia can be proud of their efforts after a mid-game substitution, and net a point. And Greece’s tactics won admiration from some quarters, but unfortunately no points as yet. If Japan can keep up this quality, though, their group rivals will soon be left scrapping for second place.

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PWC14: Group D Match 1 (Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-d-match-1-uruguay-costa-rica-england-italy https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/02/pwc14-group-d-match-1-uruguay-costa-rica-england-italy#comments Mon, 03 Feb 2014 20:06:07 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26165 Disclosure Welcome one and all to Group D! England are probably the biggest pop name in the group, but they haven’t won the Pop World Cup since Revolver came out. Can manager Ronald change that? Two other countries have gone for experienced hands – PWC ’10 finalist Andrew Hickey takes over Italy, and minnows Costa Rica have recruited Europop 2008 winner Pete. Perennial dark horses Uruguay, under manager Matthew, make up the group.

As usual, perm 2 from 4 in the poll below the cut.

URUGUAY: Dani Umpi ft Marabish – “3 Pasos”

“Sambayón,” the latest single by genderfucky Uruguayan Dani Umpi, has a wonderful and trippy video that’s worthy of far more than the 10,145 views it’s scored thusfar on Youtube. Sadly, though, the song itself isn’t so hot. This song, on the other hand! This song is hot. There’s counting! Counting is always good. “3 Pasos” was the lead single from Mormazo, the follow-up to Umpi’s kooky 2009 covers album, which featured folksy, chaotically pronounced renditions of classics like “Rent,” “Lovefool,” and “The Sign.”



COSTA RICA: Colornoise – “Button”

“Costa Rica, home of the Resplendent Quetzal, Three-wattled Bellbird and the Bare-necked Umbrellabird, has never been renowned for its indigenous music scene. Over-shadowed by the other Rico – Puerto that is – there is still no end of folklorica, reggae and a surprisingly vibrant strand of death metal. But when looking at the bench, there was really only one group straining at the bit to represent their country – the experimental noise pop post punk angular shooting styles of Colornoise. Button is a no nonsense short blast of Dry era PJ Harvey shoutiness – an oddly compulsive earwormer. We are rightly seen to be the minnows in this group, but we are coming out all guns a-blazing, enjoy Alison and Sonya: Colornoise.”



ENGLAND: Disclosure – “You And Me (ft Eliza Doolittle)”

“Disclosure takes a classic garage beat and updates it for today. This song fluctuates between a cool, polished gleam and feverish energy. It makes you want to dance but also gives you some room to breathe. They’re definitely one of the bright lights to emerge on the music scene recently. They have such a musical touch that belies their ages (19 and 22). For me personally, You & Me is the song that best illustrates their ability to meld dance and pop sensibilities into something beyond your run of the mill dance pop.”



ITALY: Radio Days – “Don’t Break My Heart”

“Don’t Break My Heart is by Italian powerpop band Radio Days, whose single Love & Fun was listed in Andrew Loog Oldham’s “Coolest Songs In The World 2013″. This is less powerpoppy, and less McCartneyesque, than most of their stuff, but still has as many hooks as their more uptempo tracks.”



THE POLL:

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

RESULTS: A dominant win for the Netherlands in Group B, taking home 3 points thanks to a home crowd-like enthusiasm. They really acted as a 12th man here.* Australia’s dreampop trailed some distance behind, but 2nd place is 2nd place, and they grab 2 points. Chile get off the mark with a single point – scant reward for the extreme length of their track, some might say. And finally Spain have had a rocky start to their PWC campaign, with their traditional tactics getting them only “a Eurovision” in this match.

*Just to reiterate what I said in the comments thread: please do NOT directly bring the PWC to the attention of the artist or their label. One RT from a featured act can break a match completely, especially as – if the Holland experience is anything to go by – none of the influx of fans bother listening to the other records! This result stands, though, cos I didn’t formulate the rule until after the match.

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PWC14: Group C Match 1 (Colombia, Greece, Cote D’Ivoire, Japan) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/01/pwc14-group-c-match-1-colombia-greece-cote-divoire-japan https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/01/pwc14-group-c-match-1-colombia-greece-cote-divoire-japan#comments Thu, 30 Jan 2014 09:02:50 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26135 monica1Our third game is the Group C curtain-raiser – bringing you Colombia, Greece, Cote D’Ivoire, and sleeping pop giant Japan. This group has been subject to a bit of upheaval as, very sadly, Colombia manager and Popular comments stalwart Patrick Mexico has had to pull out due to ill health. Get well soon Patrick! So the managerial position was OPEN. I filled it as a temporary measure, and promptly fucked up – see below. Luckily, David Cooper Moore has now taken over the job.

Of the other teams, Billy Dods is managing Greece, Garry McKenzie has taken on the Cote D’Ivoire job, and Japan’s boss is Patrick St Michel. Four tracks, three four managers, two votes, one poll – below the cut!

AN APOLOGY FROM TOM: The original Jiggy Drama track I used for Colombia contained an incitement to homophobic murder – quoting Buju Banton’s reprehensible “Boom Bye Bye”. I should have spotted this, and didn’t: if I had, I would not have used the track. As soon as Job pointed it out to me, I immediately withdrew the song from the competition, and I apologise for using it.

COLOMBIA: Bombe Estereo – “Ponte Bomb”

“I know nothing about Colombian music aside from how great Shakira is. But most of the readers probably already knew that, too. This group seems to be fairly popular there. Their big hit, “Fuego,” was featured on season 5 of “Dexter” (thanks, Spotify!) and has a million remixes, but I like this one, the add value on an otherwise filler EP full of said remixes. Technotronic filtered through Cansei de Ser Sexy (or something), would fit nicely on a mix of music that I would play in a high-end hyper-modernist furniture shop..”

GREECE: Monika – “Birds”

“The unfancied Greek team are building on the classic structure of a strong defence, creative midfield and attacking forward line. Monika appears an unusual choice in defence. Her work in the lower leagues ensures a committed performance and passionate delivery which should convert sceptics and ensure a winning start for the Greeks.”

COTE D’IVOIRE: Serge Beynaud – “Corrigé Corrigé”

“Cote D’Ivoire’s Coupe Decale formation – with its unrelenting beats and muscular spearheads like DJ Arafat – has been successfully battering dance floors and opposition defences for a decade. However over recent years there has been a feeling it’s direct style and macho posturing was becoming too easily countered. Enter Serge Beynaud who has brought not only nimbleness and subtlety to Coup Decale but also a renewed sense of joy.”

JAPAN: BiS – “StuPIG”

“Japan’s goals for this first match are simple – shake up the competition’s image of our squad and then attack attack attack. There’s no better group then subversive pop-idols BiS for the job (streaking towards a top-ten placement in the charts this week with this song), as they pummel forward on a borderline-gabber beat. Yet we aren’t pure brutes, because ‘STUPiG’ also makes room for a lovely hook amongst the aggression.”

COLOMBIA:

THE POLL

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.


EARLIER RESULTS
: Congratulations to CAMEROON who are in the Group A driving seat with a tight win. 3 points to them. Hosts BRAZIL and their tecnobrega came in 2nd and get 2 points. CROATIA – only a few votes behind – have a consolation 1 point on the board. And MEXICO paid the inevitable price for fannydangle – 0 points for them.

Go and vote in the first Group B match if you haven’t already!

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PWC14: Group B Match 1 (Spain, Netherlands, Chile, Australia) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/01/pwc14-group-b-match-1-spain-netherlands-chile-australia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/ft/2014/01/pwc14-group-b-match-1-spain-netherlands-chile-australia#comments Mon, 27 Jan 2014 12:16:21 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=26112 Ricardo-Villalobos Today’s Pop World Cup game is the Group B opener. It’s a very open group – nowhere I think of as a real powerhouse in pop competition, so this is a strong opportunity for all four teams. Spain is managed by PWC veteran Carsmile Steve, Netherlands by Job De Wit, Chile by lartsaegis, and Australia by Matt Powell.

It’s the usual Group Stage format – four tracks, you pick two, the poll is down the bottom of the post. Click through to see what our managers have come up with! (And remember you can STILL VOTE in the Group A game until Thursday morning).

SPAIN: Angy – “Boytoy”

“No messing about with tika taka for the opening game! Ms Fernandez goes straight for hoofing it up to the big chorus. A graduate of Spanish X-Factor, now working her way through various other reality formats (she was eliminated in the first round of the local version of Splash! (marvellously called “Splash! Famous Water” in Spain) last year) Angy has the nous to bring it to the other teams in the group with this vibrant neon video and punchy attitude.”

NETHERLANDS: Yellow Claw and the Opposites – “Thunder”

“Hallo! We are a small nation with not much of an international pop presence – except for dozens of EDM cheese merchants. They are all in Las Vegas raking in dollars however, and anyway, they’re not much cop at scoring quick pop goals. For our opening group match, I’m fielding a total pop team effort by DJ team Yellow Claw and hip-hop two-piece The Opposites. Both the artists’ names and the song’s title are in English to let you know we are internationally minded, but the rapping and the hardcore beats are very much with a Dutch touch. Throw on something orange and sing along.”



CHILE: Ricardo Villalobos ft Washington Miranda – “Tu Actitud”

“For years, Chilean national and German transplant Ricardo Villalobos has been regarded as a totemic wunderkind of minimal techno and microhouse, even as he’s flourished far past what these terms today signify. Tu Actitud is a prime example of his style of dancing footy: verdant textures, drunken focus, amorphous androgyny, and his seemingly acid-washed or warped sense of groove. Villalobos sways with no automation into the further reaches of pop maximalism in this cut, as fellow Chilean wingman (deemed responsible for getting Villalobos to practices after nights of “residence” at the local clubs) Washington Miranda’s vocal imbue it all with winding undulations of passionate and weird lyricism that stem from the Spanish: “amo que ames…” Villalobos and Miranda cross well together and aren’t afraid to go deep. Put your headphones on for this one.”

AUSTRALIA: Beaches – “Send Them Away”

“Beaches are a psych-rock (!) quintet from Melbourne. Send Them Away is taken from their ‘She Beats’ LP, one of my highlights of 2013. It’s both beautifully layered and totally straightforward – comparisons with MBV are obvious (but never a bad thing in my book)”

THE POLL: The usual deal – tick the two you liked most. Poll ends next Monday morning, and we’ll have the results up with the first Group D game.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. ]]>
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PWC 14: Group A Match 1 (Brazil, Mexico, Cameroon, Croatia) https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/01/pwc-14-group-a-match-1-brazil-mexico-cameroon-croatia https://freakytrigger.co.uk/pop-world-cup-2014/2014/01/pwc-14-group-a-match-1-brazil-mexico-cameroon-croatia#comments Fri, 24 Jan 2014 12:47:53 +0000 https://freakytrigger.co.uk/?p=25830 Stampedo Welcome managers and fans to the Pop World Cup 2014! Over the next few months 32 teams and over 100 songs will be fighting it out to be crowned Pop World Champions 2014. Who decides the winner? You do – by listening to the tracks for each match and voting for your favourites.

In the Group Stage, we’ll be putting up matches every Monday and Thursday. Each match will include 4 songs and you get to pick your two favourites in a poll. After a week, the poll will close and we’ll announce the results. As in the so-called real World Cup, each team gets three matches to impress on this global stage.

As well as voting, fans are encouraged to cheer on their favoured teams – and critique the opposition – in the comment boxes.

Onwards! Group A features host nation Brazil, managed by Matt DC; Mexico, managed by Steve Mannion; Cameroon, managed by Chris; and Croatia, managed by intothefireuk. This year there won’t be any ‘analysis’ from me, it’s straight into the tracks. (Click through for tracks and poll – we also have a Spotify Playlist)


BRAZIL: Edu.K – “Do The Brega! (Remix)”

“Citizens of the world! Brazil welcomes you! Now the fireworks and samba drums and voluminous carnival floats of the Opening Ceremony are out of the way it’s time to get onto serious business. The world of Brazilian pop football has been through an extended period of soul-searching following their bottom-of-the-group exit in 2010 and appointed a PWC-winning manager to bring the back to past glories. Never again will a Brazilian team pointlessly fanny about on the ball, indulge tepid Latino kitsch or attempt to kick the opposition off the park with a crunching death metal tackle.

The most exciting emerging trend in Brazilian party music is tecnobrega (literally translated as ‘cheesy techno’) and I present to you a hardy perennial proudly jumping on the bandwagon. Pop football is a simple game at heart, and sometimes the stupider the better. Do the brega!”

MEXICO: Los Mcallister – “Crazy June (Damn Disko Remix)”

“This one was ten years too late for the spottily-recorded 2002 Pop World Cup (controversially won by hosts Uruguay after everyone else’s songs received cease and desist notices from unimpressed IFPI presidente Lars Fanniiing) where glossy hyper disco of this type reached perihelion. ‘Crazy June’ finds Los Mcallister reflecting on that fabled tournament and wondering what might have been but fake-fond memories aside who would deny today’s muchachos Damn Disko a crack at the cup with such homagery. Our squad now dreams of a victory just as swift and powerful.”

CAMEROON: Naomi Achu – “Alhadji”

“From my inexpert and monolingual research, Naomi Achu seems to occupy a space in Cameroonian pop culture roughly equivalent to Nicki Minaj’s. So I was feeling congenial even before I heard her rap about using men for their money over this beat.”

CROATIA: Stampedo & Deafness By Noise – “Dubidup”

“Stampedo jog onto the pitch, eye up the opposition and immediately launch an aural assault. Starts innocently enough but is then hijacked by menacing guitars, strings and synths. Add a mexican trumpet, random shouting, penny whistle, squalling feedback and…back of the net! ‘One nil to the Stampedo!’ Doo be doo indeed!

Of course I have no idea what Dubidup is about but I can tell you Stampedo are from Zagreb and describe themselves as a mix of world music, lounge, ska, jazz and cheap cheese synthia disco! Nice.”

THE POLL: So there you have it – all that remains is for you to VOTE. You should vote for two tracks, and your votes will count equally to the final score. There is a not complex but tedious to type out scoring system which I’ll spare you until we get to results. For now – vote!

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