Cover-Credits:
Blacklist International has won its first championship of 2024. The team emerged victorious against Execration at the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 grand finals, clinching the title and the lion's share of the $100,000 USD prize pool with a decisive 2-0 win in a best-of-three series. This tournament, featured prominent Southeast Asian teams such as Blacklist International, Execration Gaming, Myth Avenue Gaming, IHC Esports, and 747, took place over four days at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, from January 10th to 14th.
Blacklist International's Undefeated Streak at the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024
Blacklist International, also known as Blacklist Rivalry, went undefeated at the recent Asia Pacific Predator League 2024. They were among four teams invited, alongside Execration, 747, and Aster.Aries.
In the group stages, Blacklist International faced teams including Execration, Myth Avenue Gaming, Whoops!, and ZOL Esports in several best-of-one series. Dominating nearly every game, they topped the tables and secured a place in the playoffs. Notably, their longest game before the finals was a 32-minute, 4-second match against Execration.
During the playoffs, Blacklist International overpowered the Mongolian esports team, IHC Esports, in a best-of-one series before the 30-minute mark, advancing smoothly to the grand finals to face Execration again.
The grand finals' first game saw Blacklist International maintaining a lead in gold and experience. By the 24-minute mark, they had a significant 20,099 gold advantage. Abed "Abed" Yusop played a pivotal role, with Execration unable to counter his Dragon Knight. The game concluded at the 42-minute mark with Blacklist International showcasing exceptional teamwork, leading to a 5-man wipeout of Execration.
Game 2, although more evenly matched in kills, was dominated by Blacklist International’s strategic draft of Naga Siren, Chen, and Luna. These heroes created significant disruption, and despite Execration's defense efforts, they were overwhelmed by Blacklist International's structural damage capabilities.
This victory marks Blacklist Rivalry's first championship of 2024 and highlights the strength of their newly revised roster. The team is now set to participate in the DreamLeague Season 22 SEA closed qualifiers, facing Among Us in their opening match on January 15th.
