Vici Gaming vs TNC Predator

In the end, we’re down a very fascinating Grand Finals -- Vici Gaming vs. TNC Predator. The DOTA 2 Chengdu Major was a thrilling ride with many ups and downs, and even though it developed in a slightly unconventional fashion, it was still exceptionally entertaining. There’s a lot on the line between these two giants: a ton of Dota Pro Circuit points along with a noticeable cash prize. A win here will go a long way in securing their spot at the upcoming TI in Stockholm next year, and you can bet that they’re going to trade heavy blows right from the very get-go.

All that said, this is a Best of 5, meaning both teams will keep their cards close to their chest. This is the moment when mental fortitude, stamina and draft flexibility come into play. How much have they shown over the course of the tournament? Do they still have gas left in the tank?

The reason why this one match-up is so exciting isn’t because they’re -- without a doubt -- two of the best and most capable teams over in Chengdu. Instead, it’s because they’ve already faced each other mere hours ago. It was an insane two-game series that eventually went in Vici Gaming’s favor. Not only did they beat the Southeast Asian champions in-game, but they displayed a lot of tenacity and creativity in the drafting phase as well. It was this flexibility that gave them an upper hand in what can rightfully be described as the most important game of the tournament.

To their credit, TNC rebounded in spectacular fashion. They needed just two quick games against Invictus Gaming to get back into the Upper Bracket and secure a rematch against the Chinese giants. To say that they dominated and outclassed Invictus would truly be an understatement. In less than two days we saw the best and worst TNC had to offer. Because of this, no one’s quite sure what to think of them. Are they championship material? Could they go all the way and win the Chengdu Major? Or will they once again succumb to Vici and their immense mechanical prowess.

One thing is for certain: they’re fighting for every inch of the map and they’re not going to pull punches. They’re insanely talented and their long list of accomplishments and triumphs over the last couple of days tell the same tale.

One can argue that they have a solid chance against Vici. On the other hand, they already had their chance and blew it. Had they at least been somewhat competitive, this would’ve been much harder. And sure, the second game could have gone either way but it was Vici who made the right calls and plays in-game to secure direct seeding into the finals. When everything was on the line, the Chinese titans did what they had to do.

Because of this, we simply have to side with Vici. They’ve made just a couple of small blunders throughout the tournament, they’ve already faced TNC and got away with a stellar 2-0 win, and they also had the luxury to sit back, relax and strategize while TNC fought against Invictus. These are huge benefits and they’re the kind of team should definitely be able to capitalize.

Will it be easy, however? Not in the slightest. Expect an absolute war that could, by all means, go the five-game distance. TNC are riding high after their masterclass against Invictus and they’re hungry for revenge. They’re also talented and cohesive enough to actually stand a chance, so if you’re betting on this one proceed with caution/

Regardless of the final outcome, we’ll surely witness some insanely competitive top-tier Dota. This is the best possible way to close out the year, conclude play on patch 7.22 and, at the same time, open up the 2020 DPC season.