Team Spirit has emerged as the clear favorites after a convincing 2-0 victory over LGD in the first semifinal of Dota 2’s The International. Led by Yatoro’s exceptional performance, Team Spirit dominated the Chinese squad and secured their place in the grand final.
In game one, LGD made a crucial mistake by allowing Collapse to play Magnus for Team Spirit. Collapse proved to be a key player, contributing to Spirit’s victory in a 76-minute match. Yatoro’s efficiency on Terrorblade, combined with excellent teamwork and catch potential from Collapse, sealed the win for Spirit.
LGD put up a fight and managed to extend the game, thanks to niu’s Centaur Warrunner. However, consecutive late-game team fights where LGD’s carry shiro was quickly eliminated turned the tide in Spirit’s favor. Without their position one, LGD struggled to mount a comeback, allowing Spirit to capitalize on their advantage.
In game two, Team Spirit continued their dominance with Yatoro showcasing the strength of Morphling as a pick. Collapse, this time playing Chaos Knight, out-farmed the entire LGD team. Spirit’s superior performance left LGD helpless, resulting in a one-sided victory.
Silent, the coach of Team Spirit, expressed confidence in his team’s performance, especially after winning the first game. He highlighted LGD’s lineup, which lacked tower-taking capabilities, allowing Spirit to play aggressively and control the game.
By the end of the match, LGD had only dealt 29 tower damage, all of which came from their position four support, planet. Spirit dismantled LGD with precision, leaving no room for a comeback.
Team Spirit will compete for their second Aegis of Champions in the grand final, facing the winner of the lower bracket final. LGD will await the outcome of the second lower bracket semi-final between Gaimin Gladiators and Azure Ray.
Source: DOTESPORTS
