Ep 6. Soccer...Soccer?

Outbreak Company is a Japanese anime television series that surrounds a young boy named Shinichi Kanou. Shinichi is a nerdy otaku who's asked to work for the Japanese government. His task is to promote Japan's culture in a fantasy land known as Eldant. Throughout his journey, he meets various other characters, including a half-elf and a dragon. Each episode sheds light on a new challenge Shinichi faces while trying to bridge the cultural gap between Japan and Eldant.

Episodes six of the first season is named Soccer... Soccer? The episode starts with Shinichi learning about soccer, which is an alien concept to the Eldant residents. Shinichi pitches the idea of holding a soccer tournament in Eldant, aiming to get the locals interested in the game. As per usual, Shinichi is met with skepticism and reluctance, but he eventually convinces them with his passion and enthusiasm for the sport.

In the beginning, the Eldant citizens aren't keen on the idea of soccer, as it's a completely alien concept to them. However, they decide to give it a try when Shinichi's enthusiasm rubs off on them. As preparations for the tournament begin, Shinichi and the main Eldant locals that he became friends with begin to understand the game's rules. They soon realize that they may not be able to compete with the Japanese team due to the obvious difference in skill level. Therefore, they create their strategies and techniques to potentially catch up to the Japanese team.

When the day of the tournament arrives, both teams play their hardest, leading to a competitive match. The Japanese team displays a level of skill, which is more precise than expected and makes it difficult for the Eldant team to score points. Still, the Eldant team doesn't back down and employs a creative strategy that helps keep the score even.

The match gets intense, and the Eldant team's determination proves to be a significant factor. This forces the Japanese team to give it their all resulting in the ball taking unexpected turns. As the match's finale draws near, and the teams remain tied, Shinichi realizes that another player on the Eldant team has an extraordinary talent. He calls for a timeout, and then the Eldant team creates an incredible strategy that puts them ahead of the Japanese team, resulting in their victory.

In the end, both teams show a sense of sportsmanship while applauding each other for their efforts. Shinichi and his team of friends return to Japan with accolades, proud of what they accomplished. The episode concludes with Shinichi's conversation with his father, reflecting on the fantastic experience of playing soccer in Eldant.

In conclusion, the Soccer... Soccer? episode displays a great sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. It revolves around characters working towards a common goal and shows the clashing of cultures without being overly dramatic. This episode has a light-hearted and enjoyable tone, making it a satisfying watch for all viewers, including soccer fans. The episode's anticlimactic call of the winner doesn't trigger emotions, but the sense of success still shines through. Overall, it's an excellent episode, showing growth in both the characters and the world they live in.