Virtus.pro – Natus Vincere

Dota 2 - The International Playoffs

Now it's the TI23 qualifiers - the final opportunity for teams to secure a spot at TI23. And, in my opinion, this is the most significant series in the entire EEU region. I anticipate a complete best-of-three match, and here's why.

Let's start with VP: Initially, before these qualifiers began, I considered them the top contenders for the last TI slot. During the third round of the first division, they secured the fourth position. They came very close to qualifying for the Bali Major. In all three games against the strongest EEU teams, they displayed remarkable freshness and innovation. They managed to take a map from Spirit and 9Pandas, exhibiting great performance overall. Their victories against all other opponents were noteworthy as well. A truly impressive achievement for a young team.

Next, there was the Riyadh Masters. Even though they finished at the bottom, the experience of competing against the world's strongest teams holds immense value. They were not merely pushed around there. Despite the outcome, they demonstrated decent gameplay and innovative strategies. Undoubtedly, this tournament must have added to their strengths.

Turning to Navi, this team pleasantly surprised me. In the second division, they maintained an unbeaten record (comprising 7 games), and in these 7 matches, they conceded just one map. Even considering the fact that this division is the second-strongest, this accomplishment is truly remarkable. If I had any lingering doubts about their potential before the qualifiers began, they were erased when they sent the Nemiga team to the lower bracket without allowing them any chances. This made me think, "These guys are truly formidable."

This match holds immense significance for both teams, as the victor advances to the Upper Bracket Final where they will face the winner of the One Move and Hydra match. Both Navi and VP outmatch both of those teams significantly. So, considering this perspective, this match is essentially the battle for the Grand Final, wherein the last TI23 slot will be determined.

In light of this, I'm absolutely certain that both teams will be fully prepared and will deliver their best performance tomorrow. If not now, then when? Therefore, I believe that both teams will secure one map each, resulting in a full-fledged series.