By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
Liquid ECHO became the first team to advance to the 2024 Mobile Legends: Bang Mid-Season Cup (MSC) semifinals on Wednesday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
During Day 1 of the knockout rounds, the reigning MPL Philippines champions defeated Falcon Esports, 3-1, maintaining their undefeated streak in the tournament.
Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno (Julian) dominated the Saudi Arabian team in Game 1, amassing 797 gold per minute and participating in most team fights throughout the game.
The first game lasted 18 minutes as they struggled to counter Yar Zar “Px7” Mon’s Aurora, who defended the Base Turret fiercely.
However, at the 17-minute mark, Alston “Sanji” Pabico (Valentina) executed a flawless combo, using the “I am Offended” ultimate with Flicker from Yehtet “KidX” Sithu’s Ruby, pulling two members of the home team, resulting in a decisive clash that eliminated two heroes and secured the game.
KarlTzy finished Game 1 with a KDA of five kills, four assists, and one death, while Sanji boasted a perfect eight assists.
Unlike the opener, Team Liquid ECHO closed Game 2 early as Jaypee “Jaypee” Cruz aggressively controlled Kaja, dictating the frontline engagements, pulling every hero in sight, and leading his team to match point with a flawless performance of 12 assists in a 14-1 kill score.
In Game 3, Falcon Esports displayed resilience, holding off TLPH throughout the match and extending the series to four games.
They secured their first victory with Arkar Bhone “RoyalMilk” Pyae standing out on Terizla, earning Player of the Game honors for his exceptional performance.
Game 4 saw Team Liquid ECHO secure their first kill at four minutes with Sanji (Valentina).
Their pivotal moment came during the second turtle team fight skirmish, where they emerged victorious with a three-to-nothing trade.
From there, the Filipino representatives capitalized on their advantage, securing the victory and eliminating Falcon Esports from the tournament.
Team Liquid ECHO now awaits the winner of Falcons AP.Bren and See You Soon match.
The game takes place on Thursday.
