TI Finals Weekend: Day 1 Matches Overview
We're almost at the brink of The International, as the tournament's Final Weekend starts tonight. Let's get an overview of the matches played today:
Nouns vs. Gaimin Gladiators
Nouns, one of the heaviest underdogs in this tournament, have miraculously made their way to the top eight. However, their dream run might end, as they are tasked with one of the most formidable opponents, the Gaimin Gladiators.
The Gladiators are heavily favored in this series, and we might see Quinn eliminate his NA brethren. For Nouns to win the series, they must have thought of some game-changing strategy during the break between the playoffs and the Final Weekend.
Still, the North American squad has nothing to lose, and all the pressure is on the Gaimin Gladiators. Will the most successful team of the year crack under pressure?
Virtus.Pro vs. BetBoom Team
The strongest region at TI must eliminate each other, as we have a CIS derby between VP and BB Team. If you were asked to predict the winner of this matchup all year long, the easy answer would be the BetBoom Team.
However, VP has become a different beast at The International, as they have surprised everyone with their recent performance. Not only did they make Team Spirit work for their victory, but they also swept Entity Gaming with a clean 2-0 stomp.
This matchup will be closer than people think, as VP has a really good shot at taking the series. The BetBoom Team must be on top form to take this matchup against the bears.
Team Spirit vs. Team Liquid
The most anticipated matchup is the third one in the course, with Team Spirit taking on Team Liquid, a rematch of the Riyadh Masters 2023 Finals. This matchup could very well decide the first finalist of Ti12.
Both teams have looked unstoppable throughout the tournament, as they have only dropped one map at Ti12 so far. Team Liquid's roster is full of experienced players who have made deep runs at The International events, but the Team Spirit core has won one before. The most significant question mark is whether Larl, the most inexperienced player in this match, can perform under pressure.
Yatoro, Collapse, and the Team Liquid roster are currently playing in top form, so the difference maker and the player to watch will be Larl.
LGD Gaming vs. Azure Ray
The day ends with an exciting Chinese derby between LGD Gaming and Azure Ray. Many fans thought China was at their weakest point this year, with only two teams qualifying for this year's TI.
However, this matchup means one Chinese team is guaranteed to make the Top 3. LGD Gaming demolished their group, while Azure Ray had a subpar performance. Azure Ray's journey to the top eight was relatively easy compared to the other teams in the same stage.
LGD Gaming, on paper, is favored to win the series against Azure Ray. However, at this stage of TI, experience is an essential factor, and that's what the Azure Ray roster has. Will the three new bloods in LGD Gaming crack under pressure?