As the ELEAGUE Major Main Qualifier continues this week, the ECS Finals wrapped up last Sunday night, marking the last high-profile tournament of 2016. As we approach the new year and the next Valve major, the ECS Finals will play a significant role in shaping the narratives leading up to the major’s start on January 22.
Astralis Makes a Comeback
Astralis had a disappointing performance earlier this year, causing many to doubt their abilities. However, after a roster change in October, Astralis has regained their competitive edge and has been performing exceptionally well. They had impressive wins at IEM Oakland and ELEAGUE, although they were unable to secure the top spot at ELEAGUE due to a loss against OpTic. Nevertheless, Astralis has proven themselves as a top team and are a force to be reckoned with.
Unexpected Success for OpTic
OpTic was not expected to perform well at ELEAGUE, but they surprised everyone by making it to the finals. Despite losing to Astralis, OpTic demonstrated their potential and proved that they can compete with the best. Their strong performance at the ECS Finals further solidified their position as a dangerous opponent, and they look promising going into the upcoming major.
Dignitas’s Disappointing Results
Dignitas had a strong showing at EPICENTER in October, but since then, they have struggled to maintain their form. While their recent results have been underwhelming, it’s important to consider the circumstances surrounding their losses. Dignitas faced tough opponents in close matches, and their form might not accurately reflect their actual level of play.
Cloud9’s Inconsistent Performance
Cloud9 had an impressive run earlier this year, but they have since struggled to replicate their success. Their recent performances have been lackluster, with multiple early exits from tournaments. While players like Stewie2k and Autimatic have shown promise, other members of the team have underperformed. Cloud9’s lack of a defined map pool and issues with leadership suggest that changes may be necessary for them to regain their form.