The playoffs are set but it’s still anyone’s guess on who’s taking the championship.
The final week of the MPL PH S14 regular season has closed out with some hype matches that’s sure to carry on over to the playoffs. Streaks were shattered and records were broken as six teams prepare to fight for the championship starting October 16.
Day one of the final week started with a heartbreak as RSG Philippines fell to Omega Esports. This meant that RSG’s chances for the final spot in playoffs grew dimmer as their fate was no longer in their hands even if they won their next match. On the other hand, it was smooth sailing for Fnatic ONIC PH as they swept Falcons AP.Bren. With a record breaking 13-0 match score, they were poised to be the first team to sweep the regular season.
The second day had Team Liquid PH taking down the already eliminated TNC Pro Team. Unfortunately, joining TNC were RSG as they lost to Aurora Gaming, locking them out of the playoffs. However, it was nothing but pure celebration for Omega as they were the ones to finally snap Fnatic ONIC’s winstreak. It was a series full of outplays and highlights from both sides and while being denied the MPL PH S14 sweep stings, Fnatic ONIC’s coach Anthony “Ynot” Senedrin felt that this final match was very important for the team. “This series is a snapshot of the playoffs,” said coach Ynot. He stressed that everyone’s going to level up once playoffs start and that they can’t allow themselves to fall behind.
Finishing the regular season strong was Blacklist International and Falcons AP.Bren. Both were victorious against Aurora and Team Liquid respectively, giving them good momentum heading into playoffs.
Who Will Take the Throne?
One thing that’s for sure is that MPL PH S14 has been one of the most competitive seasons so far. There’s been a massive shakeup in the top two and three spots in the league and it’s not clear who’s the favorite to become this season’s champion.
While they didn’t achieve the regular season sweep, Fnatic ONIC are finally looking like a real super team. Will their regular season dominance extend to the playoffs or have their opponents figured them out just in time?
Falcons AP.Bren and Team Liquid haven’t had the cleanest season as well. Team Liquid has looked especially spotty as they end the season in fifth place. Still, these two have been our constant international representatives and are world champions for a reason. Can they lock it in for playoffs?
And of course, there are the dark horses of Aurora, Blacklist, and Omega. They’ve consistently shown that they can punch above their weight throughout the regular season. Now the big question is: do they have what it takes to win a championship?
We’ll find out in the playoffs on October 16-20.
Banner photo from MOONTON Games.