Team Spirit emerged victorious in a one-sided grand final against Gaimin Gladiators at The International 2023, sweeping their rivals 3-0 to claim their second Aegis of Champions. It was a dominant performance by Spirit, who only suffered two losses throughout the tournament, with just one in the main event against Team Liquid. Gaimin Gladiators also had an impressive run in the lower bracket, dropping only one game before the grand final, coincidentally against Team Liquid.
Spirit’s win comes with a substantial decrease in prize money compared to previous years, taking home over US$1.4 million, the lowest since TI3. Four of Spirit’s players now join the exclusive club of two-time winners of The International, alongside the legendary OG rosters of TI8 and TI9.
Game 1: Yatoro’s Weaver Shines Bright
In the first game of the series, Spirit’s carry player, Yatoro, showcased his exceptional skills on Weaver. He secured six kills within the first ten minutes, dominating Gaimin Gladiators’ Lone Druid and making aggressive moves across the map. Spirit’s support duo, Miposhka and Mira, played a crucial role in shutting down Gaimin’s key player, providing solid rotations and excellent positioning. Yatoro continued to accumulate kills at an astonishing rate, finishing with an impressive 18/2/10 KDA. With key items in hand, Spirit successfully shut down Gaimin’s desperate attempts to turn the tide, securing a victory in game one.
Game 2: Yatoro’s Faceless Void Strikes Back
In the second game, Gaimin Gladiators had a strong start, winning their lanes convincingly. However, Spirit’s Larl on Pangolier managed to secure several early kills, countering Gaimin’s midlaner, Quinn. Despite a slower mid-game pace, Spirit capitalized on their big teamfight abilities, utilizing Faceless Void’s Chronosphere and Magnus’ Reverse Polarity to bring down Gaimin’s tanky cores. Gaimin attempted to capitalize on Yatoro’s death, but Spirit fought back, and Yatoro’s timely respawn turned the tide in their favor. Spirit swiftly moved towards Gaimin’s base, overpowering their defense and securing another win.
Game 3: Spirit’s Spectacular Comeback
In the third and final game, Gaimin Gladiators had a solid start, winning their lanes and building an economic advantage. However, Spirit punished Gaimin’s overeagerness to push their advantage, turning the tides with a massive teamfight win. Spirit’s tri-core continued to farm and apply pressure across the map, utilizing Spirit Breaker’s mobility to set up fights and disrupt Gaimin’s backline. The comeback was swift and decisive, as Spirit seized control and completed the clean sweep, securing their victory in explosive fashion.
Team Spirit’s dominant performance in the grand finals of The International 2023 solidifies their place as champions, earning their second Aegis of Champions and a substantial prize pool. They join the elite ranks of two-time winners, etching their names in Dota 2 history.
Source: ONEESPORTS
