Western Europe has some of the best Dota 2 teams in the world. In addition, for several years it has been rather consistent. By that, we mean you would usually see the same teams on top. Well, the region just had its official usurper to the throne after Gladiators won the Regional Finals against Team Liquid and got their hands on $50,000 and 250 DPC Points.
The Journey
Gladiators aren't actually a new team. Miroslav "BOOM" Bičan and Melchior "Seleri" Hillenkamp were both part of Vikin.gg. Last year, Vikin.gg was relegated to Division II after Season 1. However, they did place on top after Season 2 which meant they were now in Division I. However, the organization would release the roster without any explanation. This resulted in BOOM and Seleri joining Team Tickles with Anton "dyrachyo" Shkredov, Marcus "Ace" Hoelgaard, and Erik "tOfu" Engel. The good news was they were able to continue the standing of Vikin.gg.
The team would later be signed by Gladiators before the Regional Finals.
The Regional Finals
During the regular season, Gladiators only suffered two losses, and these were by Liquid and Team Secret. However, their standing allowed them to be in second place and guaranteed to join the Regional Finals as well 180 DPC Points.
During the first round of the Regional Finals, Gladiators would make short work of Tundra Esports. They would win two games, and in just a little over one hour. But it seemed that Liquid would be their kryptonite as they lost 0-2 and dropped to the Lower Bracket Final. Here, they faced OG, which really didn't give them a problem. If the match against Tundra was fast, this was faster.
That means a rematch with Liquid. With momentum on their side, Gladiators managed to get one over Liquid and win the first game. Liquid apparently didn't like that and finished the second game quickly as well.
Fortunately, the team didn't lose their composure and managed to hold on to the next two games. They were able to beat Liquid and grab the victory. Their win also puts a notice on the other teams in the region that they are one to look out for.
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