Amidst the spotlight on Counter-Strike titans at the Shanghai Major 2024, several underdog teams are poised to make their mark in the Elimination Stage. Here's a detailed look at two dark horses that could shake up the tournament.

Heroic: The International Powerhouse

Currently ranked 7th globally, Heroic earned direct entry to the Elimination Stage after a strong 3-1 performance in Europe RMR's group B. Their journey through 2024 has been marked by significant transformation, shifting from an all-Danish roster to an international lineup.

Key strengths:

• NertZ's exceptional 1.23 rating
• TeSeS's consistent 1.13 rating
• Strong support from sjuush
• kyxsan's dynamic IGL approach
• degster's versatile AWPing

Recent achievements include playoff appearances at EPL S20, 3rd/4th at IEM Rio 2024, and silver medals at Elisa Masters Espoo and Thunderpick World Championship 2024.

The MongolZ: Asia's Rising Force

Ranked 5th in Valve rankings and 9th on HLTV, The MongolZ have had a breakthrough year in 2024:

Notable achievements:

• Won 4 LAN tournaments
• $986,347 in prize money (4th highest in 2024)
• Top 16 finish at PGL Copenhagen Major
• Multiple playoff appearances at premier events

Team highlights:

• bLitz's dynamic leadership
• 910's impactful AWPing
• Senzu's explosive rifling
• Stable roster since September 2023
• Strong systematic approach to gameplay

Their dominant performance in the opening stage, losing only 15 rounds across four maps, positions them as serious contenders for a deep tournament run.

The MongolZ represent more than just individual skill - they're the first Asian team to develop a comprehensive system capable of competing with global elite teams, making them a legitimate threat in Counter-Strike's first Asian Major.

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