After nearly four years of falling just short, Team Liquid has finally lifted a tournament trophy, defeating 1win 3-2 in the grand final of the Elite League Season 2. This victory marks the end of a long streak of second-place finishes for the team, their last win being ESL One Germany in October 2020.
The triumph in Lima, Peru, has not only brought the team much-needed confidence but also sets the stage for a stronger performance at The International 2024 (TI13).
The Journey to Victory
Team Liquid’s road to the championship was anything but easy. After being knocked into the lower bracket by 1win in the upper bracket final, Liquid had to fight through BOOM Esports in a thrilling 2-1 series to earn their rematch. BOOM Esports, who were local favorites, saw their hopes dashed by Liquid’s relentless gameplay.
The Grand Final Showdown
The grand final between Team Liquid and 1win was a closely contested series that went the full five games, each showcasing high-level Dota 2 strategy and skill.
- Game 1: Liquid’s fast-paced draft, featuring a Luna and Ember Spirit, allowed them to close out the game before 1win’s Terrorblade could become a threat.
- Game 2: 1win bounced back with a strong response, leveraging Monkey King and Windranger to overpower Liquid despite their repeat Luna pick.
- Game 3: This game was a nail-biter, nearly reaching an hour in length. A crucial mistake by 1win during a high ground push allowed Nisha’s Storm Spirit and Insania’s Crystal Maiden to turn the tide, giving Liquid the edge.
- Game 4: 1win’s Morphling, controlled by Munkushi~, dominated, utilizing Liquid’s own Gyrocopter against them and forcing a final, deciding game.
- Game 5: In the series’ most dramatic moment, Nisha’s Ember Spirit managed to rejoin the fight after being picked off in the Roshan pit, turning the battle and securing Liquid’s long-awaited victory.
Looking Ahead
This victory is a significant morale booster for Team Liquid as they head into TI13. While the Elite League didn’t feature the absolute top teams in Dota 2, breaking the second-place curse could be just what Liquid needs to push forward with renewed confidence.
On the other hand, 1win, despite the loss, has shown incredible promise. Their rapid rise in the competitive scene marks them as a team to watch at TI13, potentially as one of the dark horses in Copenhagen.
Elite League Season 2 Prize Money
- 1st place: Team Liquid – $240,000
- 2nd place: 1win – $120,000
- 3rd place: BOOM Esports – $72,000
- 4th place: Execration – $56,000
Final Toughts
This victory could mark the beginning of a new era for Team Liquid, as they aim to build on this momentum heading into the most prestigious tournament of the year, The International 2024.
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