How the turntables! Team OG’s fourth-place finish at the ESL One Birmingham 2024 has a much more significant impact throughout the Dota 2 competitive scene than even Team Falcons’ grand champion title.
The squad came into the tournament as a dark horse, with heavy skepticism that they don’t deserve to qualify for it altogether. Yet, here there are, and the OG captain, Sebastien “Ceb” Debs, is enjoying the haters’ tears.
Sebastien “Ceb” Debs (Image Credits: Redbull)
Here’s a quick recap on OG’s journey throughout ESL One Birmingham 2024, which eventually led to their fourth-place finish. Contrary to expectations, Team OG excelled unexpectedly during the group stage of the ESL One Birmingham 2024, topping Group B. They outperformed several fan favorites, including Xtreme Gaming, Team Spirit, and Gaimin Gladiators, securing their advancement to Upper Bracket of Playoffs.
Despite their initial success, BetBoom Team halted their winning streak, which pushed them into the lower bracket. Yet, Ceb remained unfazed and even expressed confidence in the post-match interview about their ability to defeat every team in the lower bracket.
Ultimately, they managed to defeat G2.iG but were eventually bested by Team Falcons, the eventual champions, in a decisive 1-2 loss. Although Ceb and his squad likely wished to advance further, Team OG’s performance was impressive, particularly given who they lost to.
The inclusion of Team OG in ESL One Birmingham 2024 was initially met with criticism and anxiety by Chinese Dota 2 fans, who feared it might hinder G2.iG, a Chinese powerhouse team.
OG placed sixth on the EPT Leaderboard, pushing IG.G2 out of top 8 (Image Credits: ESL)
This is because OG was supposedly out of the running from earning any more ESL Pro Tour (EPT) points due to not qualifying for any upcoming EPT circuit’s events, including the ESL One Birmingham 2024. However, due to 1Win’s failure to secure visa circumstances, OG got the opportunity to showcase their strength. This victory significantly improved OG’s standing, placing them at a comfortable sixth place on the EPT Leaderboard and simultaneously ended G2.iG’s hopes of qualifying for the Riyadh Masters 2024.
Frankly, the current OG line-up is by no means an otherworldly stack. The roster which includes, Bozhidar “bzm” Bogdanov, Adrián “Wisper” Dobles, Matthew “Ari” Walker, Enzo “Timado” Gianoli, and Ceb himself, certainly doesn’t scream fancy. On the contrary, G2.iG’s roster, comprising of ex-PSG.LGD players, would have been a more fearsome roster on paper. Yet, their synergy and strategy have proved effective.
Timado, known for his aggressive playstyle, and bzm, the seasoned mid-player, have been crucial in creating space for his team. Meanwhile, Ceb not only leads as captain but also motivates and brings unorthodox drafts to the table.
Image Credits: Sophie McCarthy
Ceb is happy with his team’s performance at the ESL One Birmingham 2024, attributing their success to the lively LAN environment and reminding fans of how they defied all odds to be in this tournament.
Close! We fall this time, tried our hardest. Super proud of the team. A million thanks for the support and the love in the arena and online, it really lifted us ❤️. Weren’t supposed to even be here and end up top 4, @OGesports magic against the odds. We love you back ?
— Ceb (@Ceb) April 27, 2024
He remains optimistic about the team’s prospects and perhaps, fans also truly see OG as a top contender from Western Europe for upcoming Dota 2 tournaments in 2024.
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