Day 1 of the Riyadh Masters 2023 Group Stages has ended with teams already manifesting their caliber for the event. Some teams have demonstrated a strong start while others are experiencing early struggles.
One of the top performers, Talon Esports, the remaining Southeast Asian (SEA) representative in the tournament, showed an exceptional performance on Day 1, recording two notable series results and making a mark as a team to keep an eye on in the competition.
Successful Day 1 Group Stage for Talon Esports
Starting their Group Stages journey with a notable 2-0 win against Team Secret, Talon Esports set a positive track record entering their Day 1 matches. This sweeping win against the Western European (WEU) team was driven by standout performances of Nuengnara “23savage” Teeramahanon as the carry.
In the following series, Talon Esports was up against a tough opponent, Tundra Esports, the reigning TI11 champions. Even though they lost Game 1, Talon Esports displayed determination and adaptability in Game 2, selecting an unconventional Meepo offlane pick for Anucha “Jabz” Jirawong, which took Tundra Esports by surprise.
Talon Esports: A Single SEA Representative
Following the elimination of Execration during the Play-Ins, Talon Esports stands as the only SEA representative at the Riyadh Masters 2023. Although Execration’s disappointing performance in the Play-Ins might have disconcerted SEA fans, Talon Esports’ exceptional performance on Day 1 has reignited hope for the region.
After a relatively short break post DreamLeague Season 20, in which they missed the qualifying for Bali Major 2023 by a narrow margin, Talon Esports focused on their preparation for Riyadh Masters 2023. Their strong showing on Day 1 is a testament to their commitment to improving and their potential to achieve success internationally.
Talon Esports aims to maintain their solid Day 1 performance and move forward in the Riyadh Masters 2023 as the Group Stages continue. With three more days of Group Stages and several more matches to be played, the SEA team aspires to clinch a Top 4 finish to advance to the upper bracket of the playoffs.