So the first round's over, and the Felagundion got ten out of sixteen of his predictions correct. So this just proves that even bigoted journalism can get it right--over half the time! (TTN got, what, 13/16? That's just a +3 difference between journalistic integrity and biased sportswriting!)
Group stage round 2 predictions:
GROUP A
Tirion vs Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs Himring
The best friends Fingon and Maedhros did a number on the Hobbits, but apparently, Doriath is serious this year--as they demonstrated to Tirion. (Tough loss, but you'll meet them again in the finals. We believe! In the meantime, have fun shooting the lights out of the Halflings.)
GROUP B
Anduin vs
Misty Mts
Esgaroth vs
Wilderland
Might be exciting matches, considering the skill gaps. (Again)
GROUP C
Angband vs The Downer
Anfauglith vs Hithlum
Hithlum actually made 2 goals against Morgoth's fortress, so the boys of Gasping Dust better beware. Still, it's Fingolfin's game to lose.
GROUP D
Eriador vs Gondor
Barad-dûr vs
Eregion
Eregion bares its offensive fangs! Other tourney favourites beware!
GROUP E
Nargothrond vs
Tol-in-Gaurhoth
Mordor vs
The Forest
Even if Bombadil refuses to rise to the occasion, surely the Ents will be roused up playing against the burárum.
GROUP F
Tol Eressëa vs
Westernesse
Mithrim vs
Númenor
All right, so Ulmo's squad got a goal against the Land of Star (dang), but does anyone in his right mind expect Tuor's team to do the same?
GROUP G
Gondolin vs
Pelóri
Beleriand vs
Valinor
Thank Eru Valinor's in this group. Their three-lady front line wins games--and the adoration of fanboys. (Arien is hot.)
GROUP H
Lothlorien vs Minas Tirith
Dunharrow vs
Minas Morgul
Free Fëanor! Free Fëanor! Free Fëanor! (And the Rohirrim actually won a game! But the Black Tower scored a goal against the Golden Wood's defence, so they'll break the Eorling stronghold open foh sho.)