Starting with less than 24 hours until the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024 Qualifier Stage, attention typically focuses on established teams. However, beneath the mainstream narratives lie compelling underdogs ready to make their mark.

#1 – Heroic

Currently ranked 7th globally (HLTV and Valve), Heroic secured direct qualification to the Qualifier Stage with a 3-1 performance in European RMR Group B.

The team's 11-month transformation from an all-Danish roster to an international lineup has been noteworthy. Despite initial struggles and roster changes, including the addition of AWPer Abdul "degster" Gasanov, Heroic has shown consistent improvement.

Recent achievements include:

• Playoff spot in EPL S20
• 3rd/4th at IEM Rio 2024
• Silver medals at Elisa Masters Espoo 2024
• Runner-up at Thunderpick World Championship 2024

Key players driving success:

• NertZ: 1.23 rating in LAN performances
• TeSeS: 1.13 rating
• Sjuush: Underrated role player
• kyxsan: Dynamic IGL
• degster: High-potential AWPer

#2 – The MongolZ

Currently ranked 5th (Valve) and 9th (HLTV), The MongolZ represents Asia's strongest hope for a deep Major run.

2024 achievements:

• Top 16 at PGL Copenhagen Major
• Playoffs at EPL 19 & 20, IEM Cologne, IEM Rio
• 4 LAN victories including $850,000 Thunderpick World Championship
• $986,347 total prize money (4th highest in 2024)

Core strengths:

• Stable roster since September 2023
• bLitz (23): Dynamic IGL with strong firepower
• 910 (22): Consistent AWPer
• Senzu (18): Rising rifler talent

Recent form: 10 consecutive match wins (3 Bo1, 7 Bo3) with dominant Opening Stage performance, losing only 15 rounds across four maps.

Related Articles

Previous Articles