Prepare to explore into the unpredictable world of competitive Dota 2 with our list of the top 10 upsets in tournament history. These jaw-dropping moments showcase how underdogs triumphed over titans, reshaping the esports landscape. From unexpected hero picks to stunning comebacks, each upset on this list demonstrates the thrilling nature of professional Dota 2 matches. Whether you’re a seasoned Dota 2 fan or a newcomer to the scene, these historic upsets will surely leave you in awe of the skill and determination displayed by the underdogs that defied the odds.
OG’s TI8 Victory
Lower bracket run
While OG’s victory at The International 2018 (TI8) shocked the Dota 2 community, it was their incredible run through the lower bracket that truly solidified their underdog status. Despite facing elimination multiple times, OG managed to pull off remarkable comebacks and strategic plays that kept their hopes alive.
Defying expectations
Any doubts about OG’s capabilities were quickly dispelled as they dominated their opponents with a level of coordination and skill rarely seen in professional Dota 2. Their unorthodox drafts and fearless playstyle caught many teams off guard, propelling them to victory in the grand finals against the formidable PSG.LGD.
An crucial factor in OG’s success was their ability to adapt to each opponent’s playstyle and consistently outsmart them during crucial moments. It was their unwavering confidence in their strategies and each other that allowed them to overcome the odds and emerge victorious as the TI8 champions.
Team Liquid’s TI7 Triumph
Dark horse win
You might not have expected Team Liquid to take the championship at The International 2017, but that’s exactly what they did. Considered a dark horse in the tournament, Team Liquid’s road to victory was paved with impressive plays and expert teamwork.
Decisive grand final
While many expected Newbee to sweep to victory in the grand finals, Team Liquid had other plans. With a commanding performance, they clinched the series 3-0, completely shutting down their opponents. The victory was not only unexpected but also overwhelming.
A key moment in the grand final was when Team Liquid’s carry player, Miracle-, showcased his exceptional skill and game sense. His plays were calculated and precise, dismantling Newbee’s defenses and securing victory for his team.
Alliance’s TI3 Domination
Unconventional Drafting
One of the key factors that contributed to Alliance’s TI3 domination was their unconventional drafting. Alliance’s captain at the time, s4, was known for his unique and innovative drafting strategies that caught opponents off guard. By picking heroes that were not commonly seen in the meta, Alliance created a disruptive playstyle that was difficult for their adversaries to counter.
El Clasico Finale
If there’s one tournament that will forever be etched in Dota 2 history, it’s the thrilling El Clasico finale between Alliance and Na’Vi at TI3. The grand finals saw these two powerhouse teams battling it out in a five-game series that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The back-and-forth nature of the games showcased the incredible skill and determination of both teams.
The El Clasico finale at TI3 is considered one of the greatest moments in Dota 2 esports history, with Alliance securing a decisive victory in the fifth game to claim the Aegis of Champions. The synergy and coordination displayed by Alliance, especially in the intense final moments of the series, solidified their legacy as one of the greatest teams in Dota 2 history.
TNC vs. OG TI6
Group stage shocker
Once again, the underdog team TNC would make waves in the Dota 2 scene, this time at The International 2016. During the group stage, TNC faced off against OG, the reigning champions of the Frankfurt Major and Manila Major. With many expecting a quick victory for OG, TNC shocked the world by taking the series 2-0.
Giant killings begin
Group stage shocker was just the beginning of TNC’s run at TI6. The victory against OG gave TNC the momentum they needed to take down more giants in the tournament. For instance, they went on to defeat both VG.Reborn and LGD Gaming, teams that were considered to be much stronger contenders.
This series of upsets solidified TNC’s reputation as giant killers and showcased their potential as a top-tier team.
Team Empire vs. Evil Geniuses TI7
Underdog Victory
Despite being considered the underdogs, Team Empire pulled off a remarkable upset against Evil Geniuses during The International 7. It was a match that stunned the Dota 2 community and showcased the unpredictable nature of tournament play.
Roster Disruption Upset
Victory was all the more impressive for Team Empire due to the roster disruption they had faced leading up to the tournament. The team had to adapt quickly to the changes and overcome the odds stacked against them.
Team Empire’s victory over Evil Geniuses highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the players, as they managed to outmaneuver one of the tournament favorites despite the challenges they had encountered. The upset served as a reminder that in the world of competitive gaming, anything can happen.
Dota 2 – Top 10 Upsets in Tournament Play: Virtus.pro vs. VGJ.Thunder PGL Bucharest
Unlikely grand finals
All Dota 2 fans were shocked when Virtus.pro faced off against VGJ.Thunder in the grand finals of PGL Bucharest. VGJ.Thunder, considered the underdogs of the tournament, managed to surprise everyone with their strong performance throughout the event, culminating in a surprising appearance in the grand finals.
Russian powerhouse stunned
Stunned by the unforeseen turn of events, Virtus.pro, known as the dominant force in the Dota 2 scene, fell short against VGJ.Thunder in the grand finals. The Russian powerhouse, with their expert strategy and talented lineup, couldn’t keep up with the aggressive playstyle and adaptability shown by VGJ.Thunder.
Russian powerhouse Virtus.pro had been on a dominant streak leading up to the event, but their inability to counter VGJ.Thunder’s unconventional picks and strategies proved to be their downfall. Despite being the favorites, Virtus.pro couldn’t regain their footing and succumbed to the relentless pressure exerted by VGJ.Thunder.
Mineski vs. LGD DAC 2018
Grand finals upset
Many Dota 2 fans were shocked by the unexpected turn of events during the grand finals of DAC 2018, where Mineski faced off against LGD Gaming. Mineski, a team not initially favored to win the tournament, managed to secure a stunning victory over the powerhouse LGD squad, causing a major upset in the competitive scene.
SEA pride victory
To show how dominant Mineski was during this match, they convincingly defeated LGD in a best-of-five series, showcasing their superior teamwork and individual skill. The SEA team’s performance was a testament to their dedication and determination to succeed on the international stage.
You could see the passion and drive in Mineski’s players as they outmaneuvered and outplayed LGD in multiple intense teamfights. This victory not only solidified Mineski’s place in Dota 2 history but also brought pride to the Southeast Asian region, proving that top-tier talent can emerge from any corner of the globe.
NoTail’s OG beats Fly’s EG TI8
Emotional showdown
Now, one of the most memorable upsets in Dota 2 tournament history unfolded during The International 2018 when Johan “N0tail” Sundstein’s OG defeated Tal “Fly” Aizik’s Evil Geniuses in a dramatic fashion. The match was filled with tension as both teams fought fiercely for victory, leading to an emotional showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Ex-teammates clash
For the two players, N0tail and Fly, who were once close teammates on the same team, facing off against each other in such a high-stakes environment added an extra layer of intensity to the competition. Their history as friends and teammates only heightened the drama of the moment, making it a clash to remember.
This clash between ex-teammates added a personal dimension to the already intense matchup, with both players fully aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The tension was palpable as they strategized and executed their plans, each trying to outsmart the other in a battle of wits and skill.
Ad Finem’s Boston Major 2016
Unheard-of finalists
Many were surprised when Ad Finem made it to the finals of the Boston Major in 2016. The Greek team, relatively unknown in the competitive scene, managed to eliminate top-tier teams on their way to the grand final against powerhouse team OG. Despite being the underdogs, Ad Finem’s impressive teamwork and strategic plays captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.
Shocking silver medal
The shocking upset came when Ad Finem narrowly missed claiming the championship title, settling for second place after a grueling best-of-five series against OG. Assuming the role of underdog throughout the tournament, Ad Finem showcased exceptional skill and determination, pushing the favorites to their limits in an intense showdown. To come so close to victory only to fall short highlighted their remarkable journey and left fans in awe of their performance.
Newbee vs. Vici Gaming TI4
Surprising sweep
For Dota 2 fans around the world, The International 4 was a monumental event in the history of the game. One of the biggest upsets of the tournament was the showdown between Newbee and Vici Gaming. Newbee, a relatively unknown team at the time, shocked the community by sweeping Vici Gaming in a best-of-three series.
Rookie champions crowned
Sweeping aside powerhouse teams like Vici Gaming, Newbee emerged victorious, claiming the Aegis of Champions and cementing their place in history as the winners of The International 4. The team, with their aggressive playstyle and coordinated teamwork, dominated the competition and proved that they were worthy of the title.
ChampionsFor a team of newcomers to claim the top spot at the most prestigious tournament in Dota 2 was unprecedented. Newbee’s performance at TI4 showcased their exceptional skill and strategic prowess, earning them the respect of the entire Dota 2 community.
Unknown.xiu vs. Newbee Frankfurt Major 2015
Peru’s historic win
All eyes were on the underdog Peruvian team, Unknown.xiu, as they faced off against the powerhouse Newbee in the Frankfurt Major 2015. Against all odds, Unknown.xiu managed to secure a historic victory over Newbee, shocking the Dota 2 community and proving that skill knows no boundaries.
Newbee eliminated early
There’s no denying the disappointment felt by fans when Newbee, the defending champions, were eliminated in the early stages of the tournament. Their unexpected exit sent ripples throughout the competitive Dota 2 scene, serving as a reminder that even the strongest teams are not immune to upsets.
If we research deeper into the reasons behind Newbee’s early elimination, we can attribute it to a combination of factors such as underestimating their opponents and not adapting their strategies effectively. Their defeat serves as a valuable lesson for pro teams to never underestimate their challengers and constantly evolve their gameplay.
You can never underestimate the impact of upsets in Dota 2 tournament play. They not only showcase the unpredictable nature of esports but also highlight the importance of staying adaptable and mentally prepared for any situation. The Unknown.xiu vs. Newbee matchup will forever be remembered as a defining moment in Dota 2 history, proving that in esports, anything is possible.
iG’s TI2 Championship
China’s first title
Your journey to becoming a Dota 2 champion starts with the dream of holding the Aegis of Champions. For Invictus Gaming (iG), that dream became a reality at The International 2 (TI2) in 2012. iG shocked the world by not only winning the tournament but also becoming the first Chinese team to claim the coveted title.
Natus Vincere dethroned
First, Natus Vincere had dominated the Dota 2 scene, reigning as the defending champions from TI1. iG’s victory at TI2 marked the end of Natus Vincere’s reign, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of professional Dota 2. The upset sent shockwaves through the esports community, with iG solidifying their place in history as formidable contenders.
Plus, the strategic plays and impeccable teamwork displayed by iG during the tournament were unmatched. Their ability to adapt to their opponents’ strategies on-the-fly was impressive, highlighting their deep understanding of the game.
EHOME vs. Evil Geniuses TI6
Lower Bracket Brawl
Not many could have predicted the intense showdown between EHOME and Evil Geniuses during The International 2016. The lower bracket brawl between these two top-tier teams had fans on the edge of their seats as they fought fiercely to stay in the competition.
Legendary Comeback
If there is one match that will go down in Dota 2 history, it is the legendary comeback by Evil Geniuses against EHOME at TI6. What seemed like an impossible feat, EG managed to turn the tables and secure a stunning victory, leaving the audience in absolute awe.
On that fateful day, Evil Geniuses displayed unparalleled resilience and strategic prowess, making a comeback from a seemingly unwinnable position. Their remarkable performance in the face of adversity solidified their status as one of the greatest teams in Dota 2 history.
Lower in the game, EHOME had dominated the series, putting Evil Geniuses against the ropes with their calculated plays and solid teamwork. However, Evil Geniuses refused to back down and staged an incredible turnaround, showcasing their unwavering determination to succeed.
Natus Vincere vs. TongFu TI3
Puppey’s Masterful Draft
To understand the significance of the Natus Vincere vs. TongFu TI3 matchup, one must first acknowledge the masterful drafting of Clement “Puppey” Ivanov. Puppey’s ability to anticipate his opponent’s moves and craft a versatile and unpredictable draft was crucial to Na’Vi’s success in this series.
Iconic Fountain Hooks
If we were to pinpoint one moment that defined the Natus Vincere vs. TongFu TI3 showdown, it would undoubtedly be the iconic fountain hooks executed by Dendi on Pudge. The crowd-pleasing maneuver not only showcased Na’Vi’s creativity and precision, but also dealt a significant blow to TongFu’s morale.
The draft for this match was a crucial factor in enabling the iconic fountain hook strategy to come into play. Puppey’s drafting prowess ensured that Dendi had the tools he needed to pull off this audacious and game-changing maneuver.
Masterful execution of the fountain hooks not only demonstrated Na’Vi’s strategic brilliance, but also solidified their status as one of the most innovative and exciting teams to watch in the history of competitive Dota 2.
Alliance beats EG TI6
Swede’s late-game magic
For Alliance, the victory over Evil Geniuses at The International 2016 was a testament to their exceptional late-game strategy and execution. With their backs against the wall, the Swedish team showcased their resilience and strategic depth to outmaneuver one of the tournament favorites.
NA favorites falter
While Evil Geniuses entered the tournament as one of the North American favorites, their defeat at the hands of Alliance highlighted their vulnerabilities under pressure. Despite their strong performance throughout the event, EG failed to close out the series against the relentless onslaught from the Swedish squad.
Swedes leveraged their experience and teamwork to secure necessary objectives and capitalize on EG’s mistakes.
Secret vs Aster Singapore Major 2021
Group stage shock
After an intense battle during the group stage of the Singapore Major 2021, Team Secret faced off against Aster in a match that left fans stunned. Despite being considered the underdog, Aster managed to secure a surprising victory over the powerhouse team, shaking up the tournament dynamics early on.
Powerhouse performance crumbles
Performance at the Singapore Major took a sharp turn when Team Secret, a team known for their consistent dominance in tournaments, faced a crushing defeat against Aster. This unexpected outcome sent shockwaves through the Dota 2 community, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement that tournament play can bring.
This unexpected upset demonstrates the volatile nature of competitive Dota 2 and reinforces the importance of adaptability and resilience in high-stakes tournament environments. Despite being considered a favorite, even the strongest teams can falter under the pressure of elite competition, making every match a thrilling spectacle for fans and players alike.
Fnatic vs. Team Secret ESL One
DJ’s miraculous plays
Not many could have predicted the incredible performance by Fnatic’s DJ during their match against Team Secret at ESL One. His remarkable plays and strategic decisions turned the tide of the game in Fnatic’s favor, leaving spectators in awe of his skill and composure under pressure.
Top seed tumbles
To the surprise of many fans and analysts, Team Secret, the top seed in the tournament, faced a stunning defeat at the hands of Fnatic. The underdog team’s coordinated gameplay and execution of strategies caught Team Secret off guard, leading to an unexpected upset in the tournament.
While Team Secret had a dominant record coming into the match, Fnatic’s comprehensive understanding of their opponent’s playstyle and strong decision-making allowed them to exploit weaknesses in Team Secret’s lineup. The dynamic performance showcased by Fnatic demonstrated their potential to compete at the highest level of Dota 2 tournament play.
Infamous vs. Secret TI9
SA’s historic achievement
Unlike many other regions, South America has often struggled to make a mark on the global Dota 2 stage. However, Infamous, a team hailing from the region, shocked the world when they faced off against Team Secret at The International 2019.
Upset of the year
Some might argue that Infamous’ victory over Team Secret at TI9 was the biggest upset of the year in the Dota 2 competitive scene. Team Secret, one of the favorites to win the tournament, was taken down by the underdogs from SA in a series that will be remembered for years to come.
You can imagine the disbelief and excitement that swept through the Dota 2 community as Infamous secured their unlikely victory. The skill and determination displayed by the SA team were truly remarkable, showcasing that in Dota 2, anything is possible. This upset served as a reminder to all teams that underestimating your opponents can lead to shocking outcomes.
Dota 2 – Top 10 Upsets in Tournament Play: ESCAPE Gaming vs. OG TI6
Cinderella Story
Even in the fiercely competitive world of Dota 2, underdogs can emerge victorious. Such was the case when ESCAPE Gaming squared off against the formidable OG during The International 2016. ESCAPE Gaming, a relatively unknown team at the time, stunned the crowd with their exceptional teamwork and strategic plays. Their journey in the tournament was nothing short of a Cinderella story, as they defeated top-tier teams to reach the grand finals.
Defending Champs Defeated
One of the most iconic upsets in Dota 2 history came when the defending champions, OG, were dethroned by ESCAPE Gaming in a thrilling series at TI6. OG, a powerhouse team with talented players and a strong track record, were the favorites to win it all. However, ESCAPE Gaming had other plans and managed to outplay and outmaneuver the defending champs, leading to their defeat in the grand finals.
Cinderella stories like ESCAPE Gaming’s triumph over OG at TI6 are what make esports so captivating. The unpredictability and excitement of seeing an underdog rise to the occasion and take down a powerhouse team is a testament to the competitive nature of Dota 2 tournaments.
Natus Vincere vs. Alliance ESL One Germany
Underdogs rise again
Unlike many expected outcomes in tournament play, the clash between Natus Vincere and Alliance at ESL One Germany left fans shocked as the underdogs, Alliance, rose to the occasion. The matchup showcased the unpredictable nature of competitive Dota 2, where skill and strategy can sometimes be trumped by determination and unexpected plays.
Rivalry continues
You’ll find that in the world of esports, rivalries can often define the competitive landscape. If two teams have a history of close matchups and intense battles, their encounters can be the highlight of any tournament. In the case of Natus Vincere and Alliance, their rivalry dates back to classic Dota 2 clashes that have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
A key factor in the ongoing rivalry between Natus Vincere and Alliance is their contrasting playstyles and team dynamics. Natus Vincere, known for their aggressive and flashy plays, often face off against Alliance’s more methodical and strategic approach to the game. This clash of styles adds an extra layer of excitement to their matchups, as fans eagerly anticipate which approach will prevail.
Summing up
With this in mind, it is evident that Dota 2 has seen its fair share of intense upsets in tournament play. From underdog teams defeating favorites to unexpected strategies turning the tide of the game, the competitive scene of Dota 2 is filled with unpredictability and excitement. These upsets serve as a reminder that in the world of esports, anything can happen, and no team is guaranteed victory. It is this element of uncertainty that keeps fans on the edge of their seats and makes Dota 2 one of the most thrilling games to watch in the competitive gaming world.
