Cover-Credits:
As Day 1 of the Riyadh Masters 2023 Group Stages concludes, teams are already showcasing their potential at the event. Some teams are off to a strong start, while others face challenges early on.
Among the standout performers, Talon Esports, the only Southeast Asian (SEA) representative left in the tournament, has had a remarkable Day 1, securing two notable series results and leaving a mark as a team to watch in the competition.
Talon Esports' Successful Group Stage Day 1
Talon Esports opened their Group Stages journey with an impressive 2-0 victory over Team Secret. Their clean sweep against the Western European (WEU) team was spearheaded by impressive performances of Nuengnara "23savage" Teeramahanon in the carry role. This victory set a positive tone for Talon Esports as they entered the rest of their Day 1 matches.
In their next series, Talon Esports faced a much tougher opponent in the form of Tundra Esports, the reigning TI11 champions. Despite losing Game 1, the SEA team demonstrated their determination and adaptability in Game 2. Talon Esports drafted an unconventional Meepo offlane pick for Anucha "Jabz" Jirawong, catching Tundra Esports off guard.
Talon Esports: The Sole SEA Representative
With Execration's elimination during the Play-Ins, Talon Esports stands as the lone SEA representative competing at the Riyadh Masters 2023. While Execration's disappointing result in the Play-Ins may have disheartened some SEA fans, Talon Esports' impressive Day 1 performance has rekindled hope for the region.
Talon Esports had a relatively short break after DreamLeague Season 20, where they narrowly missed qualifying for the Bali Major 2023. This enabled them to focus on their preparation for the Riyadh Masters 2023. With a strong showing on Day 1, Talon Esports has demonstrated its dedication to improvement and potential to succeed on the international stage.
As the Riyadh Masters 2023 Group Stages continue, Talon Esports will look to build upon their solid Day 1 performance and progress further in the tournament. There are three more days of Group Stages remaining, and many more matches for the SEA team to play, where they will look to secure a Top 4 finish to make it to the upper bracket of the playoffs.
