As you said, VPN is cheating and forbidden by Nordeus. Cup manipulation is not. That's a huge difference. You lost to a team one level above yours ? I beat 2 that were 2 levels above mine in cup this season. And I had "manipulated". So this is not the explanation. I never played a cup in 24 seasons where I was the highest level team.You'll always have to face better sides in cup: that's why it's exciting and that's why it's my favourite competition. You have right to ask whatever you like to Nordeus. In the meantime, I'll do whatever I can to maximize my chances without cheating.