PHNOM PENH – Blacklist International defeated home team Burn X Flash, 3-1, to advance to the grand finals of the 2023 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Southeast Asia Cup at the Aeon Mall Mean Chey here on Saturday.
The Tier One-backed squad took the early lead in the series by fending off the Cambodian squad with a score of 18-12 in Game 1.
However, Burn X Flash made a statement in the second game, dominating Blacklist International in the early stages and then weathering a late storm from the Filipino team to secure a 16-9 victory in 22 minutes, leveling the series at 1-1.
In the final clash, Filipino gold laner Mariusz “Donut” Tan showcased impressive use of Ultimate Snipe, revealing Blacklist International’s positioning near the Lord pit. This allowed Burn X Flash to secure four kills, ultimately leading them to victory. Donut finished the game with 11 kills and three assists on his signature Lesley pick, with only two deaths.
After a disappointing Game 2, Edward “Edward” Dapadap (Joy) and Kenneth “Yue” Tadeo (Valentina) rallied Blacklist International in Game 3. They guided the team to a 16-7 win, putting them ahead 2-1 in the series. Edward contributed six kills and five assists with one death, while Yue scored eight kills and five assists without dying, all within 19 minutes of gameplay.
In Game 4, the three-time MPL Philippines champion secured their spot in the finale.
Blacklist International will face the winner of the ECHO-ONIC Esports semifinals match-up in the grand finals on Sunday at 7:00 p.m.
