Echo secured the first of the MPL Invitational 2023 grand finals slot after dominating AP.Bren, 2-0, in the upper bracket finals on Saturday in Jakarta, Indonesia.
It was a surprising turn of events as Echo struggled early in the tournament, losing their opener to Indonesia’s Bigetron Alpha and going the distance against Malaysia’s Home Bois before showcasing their strength against AP.Bren, who had not dropped a single match before facing the M4 world champions.
Echo dominated the defending MPL PH champions in the opener, highlighted by Frederic “Bennyqt” Gonzales’ (Karrie) triple kill during a 13th-minute skirmish that concluded with a massive 16-3 domination on the kill tally.
Sanford “Sanford” Vinuya earned the game MVP citation after finishing with a 5-0-8 KDA on the Khaleed pick.
The Orcas continued their aggression spearheaded by Sanford with his signature Benedetta pick, securing a quick triple kill during the first turtle fight that set the tone for the route.
Once again, Echo posted a dominant kill score with a 16-6 lead during the 13-minute victory.
All hope is not lost for AP.Bren as they attempt to forge a rematch with Echo by facing the winner of the RSG Philippines-Home Bois matchup in the lower bracket finals tomorrow.
