It has only been two days into the BLAST World Final 2024, and fans are already seeing the unexpected happen. The expected favorites are absent, and the long shots are the ones that are coming out on top. As the Group Stage is over, it’s time to take a look at the moments that have stirred things up in the competition.
Astralis and G2 Secure Their Spots in the Semi-Finals
Astralis started the tournament with low chances of making it to the next round, but they have proved everyone wrong by reaching the Semi-Final stage in Singapore. This great result is not only a great achievement for Astralis but also one of the highlights of cadiaN’s career as an in-game leader of the team, especially when he played with an elbow injury in his mouse arm. Despite a difficult beginning to this new Astralis roster, wins over both NAVI and MOUZ suggest that cadiaN’s return to playing with stavn and jabbi may not be far off.
Rounding the top four are G2 who came back strongly after a shocking 13-0 defeat in their first match. They have bounced back after defeating Liquid and Spirit, thanks to m0NESY and NiKo. With this form, G2 is now a contender for their third trophy in 2024, which makes the title in Singapore very much alive.
It Was a Disappointing Day for Both NAVI and Liquid
NAVI and Liquid fought for the championship in the BLAST World Final 2024, but both teams finished in the last place, which was bitter for both teams. For NAVI, who have been a staple of finals appearances, losses to Astralis and FaZe remind them that they are not unbeatable. Despite being ranked at the top in power rankings, their early elimination here could be a motivation as they head to the next Major.
On the other hand, Liquid has more worrying challenges. Twistzz’s first stint as the in-game leader had its moments, but the team’s reverse sweep loss to G2 after dominating them 13-0 and a bad loss to Vitality after substituting JACKZ has been worrisome. After failing to qualify for the PGL Major in Copenhagen, Liquid cannot afford to drop down with the Perfect World Shanghai Major upcoming. Recent poor performances by AWPer ultimate also put pressure on the team and how he responds to these performances will determine the future of Liquid.
Quarter-Final Showdowns: Who Will Step Up?
While Astralis and G2 are waiting for their Semi-Final rivals, let’s take a look at the Quarter-Finals contenders – the teams that will do their best.
First off is FaZe Clan who lost the first match to MOUZ but came back strong to defeat NAVI. This win could be exactly what FaZe needed to get back on track after a difficult year, as they look to get back into form in Singapore.
There is MOUZ, who started with a victory over FaZe but then looked weak against Astralis. However, MOUZ is still one of the main contenders for the BLAST World Final and the Quarter-Final match will be a serious test for the team.
Vitality is also in the mix, having transitioned well with JACKZ stepping in for mezii who was unable to participate in the tournament due to the birth of his child. Although they lost to Spirit, the victory over Liquid showed that they have more to offer. JACKZ has been helpful, and it will be interesting to know if they can go further against MOUZ.
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