Chinese Dota 2 team Azure Ray defied expectations and made a stunning comeback to win the ESL One Kuala Lumpur tournament, showcasing incredible resilience and skill. Their journey from near disqualification to champions is a testament to their determination and strategic prowess.
Pre-Tournament Controversy and Performance: Roster Changes and DQ Debates
- Roster Shuffle: Azure Ray changed three players post-TI 2023.
- Controversy: Calls for disqualification arose due to the roster changes.
- Rule Changes: With Valve’s revised rules, Azure Ray faced no penalties.
Group Stage Dominance
- Group A: Azure Ray topped their group, losing only two matches.
- Early Assertion: They established themselves as a dominant force from the start.
The Path to the Grand Finals: Upper Bracket Challenges
- First Encounter with Gaimin: Azure Ray was initially sent to the lower bracket by Gaimin Gladiators.
- Liquid in Lower Bracket: Faced EU giant Liquid, narrowly avoiding elimination.
Remarkable Comeback
- Against Odds: Won the last two matches against Liquid.
- Revenge Match: Secured a place in the grand finals against Gaimin.
The Grand Finals: A Historic Reverse Sweep
- Gaimin’s Early Lead: Gaimin initially led the series with two wins.
- No Margin for Error: Azure Ray faced immense pressure, with no room for mistakes.
- Unbelievable Comeback: Completed a reverse sweep, winning three consecutive games.
- Historic Achievement: This reverse sweep was Dota 2’s first in a grand final since 2021.
YOUR #ESLOne KUALA LUMPUR POWERED BY @intelgaming CHAMPIONS ARE AZURE RAY!!!! #RiseAboveFate 🏆 pic.twitter.com/xGRsqSInNK
— ESL Dota2 (@ESLDota2) December 17, 2023
Key Players and Strategy
- Offlane Duo: XinQ and Xxs dismantled their opponents in the offlane.
- Late Game Assurance: Xm and Lou ensured a strong late game.
- Underdog Success: Despite being a new roster, Azure Ray exceeded all expectations.
Outlook for 2024
- Future Predictions: Azure Ray players hint at a dominant year for China in Dota 2 in 2024.
- Growing Expectations: The team’s victory in Kuala Lumpur sets a high bar for their future performances.
NEW ERA FOR CHINA DOTA???? #ESLOne #RiseAboveFate pic.twitter.com/QfSKvZWCiQ
— ESL Dota2 (@ESLDota2) December 17, 2023
Azure Ray’s Triumphant Journey at ESL One Kuala Lumpur
Azure Ray’s victory at ESL One Kuala Lumpur is not just a win but a signal of the rising strength of Chinese Dota 2. Their ability to overcome adversity, adapt to changing circumstances, and execute impeccable strategies under pressure will be something to watch in the upcoming year.