Despite not making it past the semifinals at ESL One Birmingham, OG had a memorable run, with some standout performances. In an exclusive chat with Dot Esports, British Dota star Ari shared insights into the team’s improved mindset, performance enhancement, and a humorous incident at a Greggs store.
Ari was warmly received by his home crowd, an experience he found unusual but enjoyable. He appreciated the absence of jet lag and long travel times, but emphasized that once the game starts, all focus is on the game itself. Despite not winning the trophy, Ari and OG gained valuable experience.
Caption: Fans cheer on Ari and his team in Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena. Photo by Adam Lakomy via ESL
OG started strong at ESL One Birmingham, topping Group B by consistently winning against Xtreme Gaming and drawing with other teams. They didn’t suffer any series losses until the upper bracket semifinals against BetBoom, but quickly bounced back in the lower bracket quarters by dominating G2.iG.
Ari believes that performing well in a major tournament like ESL Birmingham provides a foundation for future tournaments. He is optimistic about the team’s prospects, attributing their success to the team’s structure and system.
While OG didn’t win the ESL One Birmingham title, their performance was commendable. In their lower bracket semifinal best-of-three with the Falcons, they won the second game, displaying strong communication and team dynamics.
Ari credits the team’s progress to consistent efforts towards improving their dynamics. He admits that the team had a rough couple of months, but believes they are now in good shape.
Ari’s confidence in OG is further bolstered by his respect for team captain, Ceb. With two wins at The International and numerous other tier-one trophies, Ceb’s 13 years in Dota 2 are a significant asset.
Caption: Brimming with wisdom, Ceb’s Dota knowledge is nothing to scoff at. Image via Ceb on Instagram
While in the UK, Ari took on the role of guide for his team. However, his attempt to introduce them to the UK’s popular pastry chain, Greggs, didn’t go as planned due to his manager’s poor choice of pastry. Ari believes the steak bake is the ultimate Greggs snack and regrets that his manager didn’t choose it.
ESL One Birmingham concluded with BetBoom facing Falcons after a dominant tournament run. Teams are now preparing for the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, aiming to secure their place in the competition for a share of the $60,000,000 prize pool. Ari and his team are also looking to secure their spot.
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