TNC Predator Falls to Vici Gaming in EPICENTER Major
TNC Predator, fresh off their qualification for The International 2019, faced off against Vici Gaming in a high-stakes match to secure a top-three finish at the EPICENTER Major.
Vici emerged victorious in a closely contested series, guaranteeing themselves a top finish and earning enough Dota Pro Circuit points to surpass Evil Geniuses in the rankings.
Vici Gaming’s Dominant Run
Vici Gaming had a strong run in the group stage, going 4-1 and losing only one game to Forward Gaming. In the playoffs, they made a statement with a clean sweep over Gambit Esports.
Their stellar performance set the stage for a showdown with TNC Predator, who were riding high after securing their spot in TI9 and a quick 18-minute win in the previous round.
A Hard-Fought Battle
In game one, TNC Predator got off to a strong start and managed to maintain control despite Vici’s attempts at a comeback. Both teams made some mistakes, but Predator’s Carlo “Kuku” Palad’s Venomancer rotations and late-game team fights gave them the edge.
Game two saw Vici bounce back with an offensive strategy led by Zeng “Ori” Jiaoyang’s dominant performance on Sniper. Vici’s lineup favored the late-game and they tied up the series 1-1.
Vici Gaming Emerges Victorious
In the deciding game three, Vici Gaming’s combination of Death Prophet, Mars, and Troll Warlord proved too powerful for TNC Predator. Vici overwhelmed their opponents, securing a victory in just 30 minutes and ending Predator’s upper bracket run.
Vici Gaming will now face Team Liquid in the Winners Bracket Final, while TNC Predator will drop to the lower bracket.
TNC Predator, Vici Gaming, EPICENTER Major, Dota Pro Circuit, TI9, upper bracket, lower bracket, top three finish, playoffs, group stage, team Liquid, dominant performance