By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
Team Liquid Philippines clinched the fifth playoff spot in MPL Philippines Season 14 after breaking Blacklist International’s two-game winning streak with a decisive 2-0 sweep on Saturday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
This victory dropped Blacklist International, the reigning MPL Philippines champion, down to seventh place with a 3-9 record. The win was crucial for Team Liquid, as it strengthened their playoff position and highlighted their improved momentum.
In the second game of the series, Team Liquid dominated Blacklist, leaving them kill-less and wrapping up the match in just 13 minutes and 12 seconds. The flawless victory reflected Team Liquid’s peak form, contrasting with their earlier struggles in the tournament.
“Medyo nakahinga. Kase medyo panget din yung run namin noong umpisa eh. Ngayon medyo nasa momentum na winstreak kami, parang ganon,” said assistant coach Eric “Cyre” Mercader during the post-match interview.
Throughout the series, the entire Team Liquid Philippines squad delivered an impressive performance, allowing star player Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno to shine in both games.
Their dominance was especially evident against Blacklist, as they restricted their opponents to a single kill in the entire series. That kill came in Game 1 when KarlTzy (playing Hayabusa) died at the 6-minute, 20-second mark.
Hall of Famer KarlTzy was named MVP in both games.
In Game 1, he recorded six kills, one assist, and one death. In Game 2, his performance on Julian was just as stellar, finishing with five kills and four assists.
Looking ahead, Team Liquid Philippines is set to face the winless TNC Pro Team on October 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Blacklist International will also meet TNC Pro Team on Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
