The challenges and obstacles of DOTA 2 have always been intertwined with the domestic community since the game was not yet popular in Vietnam. It is no coincidence that by its 10th anniversary, the number of Onlan tournaments for professional DOTA in Vietnam can be counted on one hand.
Just a few months ago, the DRK DOTA Cup had to postpone its final round in Da Nang due to the resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, during the waiting period, some teams were unable to participate in this exciting Onlan event. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of both the organizers and the competing teams, the final three names that will be present in Da Nang on April 25 have been determined.
Let’s name and recap the colorful journeys of each team before heading to the ‘grand finale’ of the DRK DOTA Cup this weekend:
1. NMN
This is a stack formed with the core being the legend of the Vietnamese DOTA scene – Nguyễn “Lis” Minh Nhân, along with the famous caster Misa; the former Southeast Asia rank 3 carry Killua, and Red – who is currently regarded as the number 1 offlane player in Vietnam and plays for the 496 lineup.
With such a strong profile and many big names, it is no surprise that the championship of the first week of the DRK DOTA tournament fell into the hands of Nguyễn Minh Nhân and the team of the same name. However, a shocking and tragic event occurred when the legend of Vietnamese DOTA, Lis, passed away due to a serious illness during the tournament. His passing has left a deep loss and sorrow in the hearts of fans.
Coming to the playoffs of DRK, the NMN team, with the inclusion of two stand-ins, had a freewin match against doesn’t exist and only had to play one match against team Never Fall. It seems that the absence of key players forced NMN to yield, allowing Never Fall to advance to the grand final.
There is still one more chance for Misa and his teammates to achieve the championship of the DRK DOTA Cup, leaving a commemorative title for the tragic departure of legend Nguyễn Minh Nhân.
2. The Old Boys
The champion of the second week of the DRK DOTA Cup is also a collection of veterans who have fought in many major tournaments domestically, boasting a record as impressive as the NMN team.
Xaito and DH are a strong duo in both seasons of the ESL Vietnam Championship, wearing the colors of Breakers. Meanwhile, Ch` and DrPusheen are also members of SSG and competed in the tournament.
Having many years of competitive experience, it is no surprise that The Old Boys, despite facing many difficulties, still made it to Da Nang this weekend. Among the final three teams, The Old Boys had to play the maximum number of matches in the playoffs (12 matches), more than the combined total of the other two teams.
If they can get through the losers’ final and reach the grand final, the boys from The Old Boys will surely win the title for ‘Most Matches Played’.
3. Never Fall
As the first team to reach the grand final of the DRK DOTA Cup, Never Fall has a relatively ‘quiet’ lineup that is less known.
In terms of fame, they do not have the participation of idols in the community like NMN. In terms of tournament experience, The Old Boys, with their seasoned veterans from two seasons of ESL, are certainly more experienced. However, the most surprising aspect is that Never Fall has the highest average rank in the tournament: over 8000 MMR.
The stack of Mari and Duy Quang may not be well known, but their strength is undeniable. Perhaps the most famous member of the team is Kuminh, a player born in ’98 and the youngest in this team who has previously competed for prominent Vietnamese teams such as Mega Aurorus and Impunity. After a quiet period for DOTA in Vietnam, the members of Never Fall seem to be more focused on developing their personal skills rather than forming a competitive team.
The allure of the DRK DOTA Cup and the Onlan stage in Da Nang has seemingly unearthed a strong team like Never Fall. Currently, they are clearly the team showcasing their strength and are full of hope for the championship cup of the DRK DOTA Cup.
Which of the three teams do you think will be crowned in this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!