Cover-Credits:
The highly anticipated battle between PSG.LGD and Team Aster took place in the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) China 2023 Tour 3: Division I as the last league stage series, with both teams vying for the first place position. Despite relatively even starts in both games, PSG.LGD's ability to maintain control and only engage when it had the advantage was what enabled it to defeat Aster 2-0. There were no favorable matchups for Aster's carry "Monet" Peng in either of the two games, and he was unable to contribute much. Regardless of their final league rankings, this upcoming Bali Major 2023 is already guaranteed for both PSG.LGD and Aster.
Team Aster vs PSG.LGD: Match recap and highlights
Recap
In game 1, PSG.LGD got its hands on a wicked last pick when it was allowed to select Phantom Lancer at the conclusion of the draft. Aster had few answers for Phantom Lancer, which became clear as the game progressed. Despite a strong start on Aster, especially in the midlane, and a 3k advantage in 16 minutes, PSG.LGD, who was playing more conservatively, struck back once its cores got the necessary item timings. Phantom Lancer was put on the front and PSG.LGD started to dominate the skirmishes, winning the first game in 34 minutes.
In game 2, PSG.LGD chose five Universal heroes, with Abaddon serving as the safelane carry. Despite some kills orchestrated by midlaners on both sides in the early few minutes, it turned out to be a relatively sluggish game in which both teams preferred to farm on their cores. PSG.LGD was able to maximize a more comprehensive control of the map with the help of Techies and Venomancer, preventing Aster from planning aggressive movements or fighting easily for Roshan. PSG.LGD progressively increased its advantage, and it won after 40 minutes.
Highlights
Here are some highlights of the series.
Aster and PSG.LGD both had successful seasons this season. Until recently, both teams were undefeated, with PSG.LGD losing to Xtreme Gaming recently while Aster was beaten by PSG.LGD and Invictus Gaming back to back.
Even though Aster's two lost series may make it rethink its future strategies, bringing Sumail "SumaiL" Hassan on board full-time at the beginning of the season worked well overall. The team will now compete on 5th June against Invictus Gaming in a Bo3 tiebreaker for the second spot.
Following the series tomorrow, it will be the turn of Aster and PSG.LGD to move on to DreamLeague Season 20 on 11th June 2023, where spots are at stake for the lucrative Riyadh Masters 2023.
