10 hours ago
Talon Esports officially qualifies for the Esports World Cup 2025
THE ES TIMES — Talon Esports has officially booked its place in the Dota 2 Esports World Cup 2025, with a prize pool of $3 million (SR11,250,000). Their qualification came after a strong performance that saw them secure a top-four finish in DreamLeague Season 26, which propelled them into the top 8 of the ESL Pro Tour (EPT) standings.
A Dominant Performance in DreamLeague Season 26
Talon started their campaign strongly, finishing third in Group B during the first group stage, ahead of elite teams like Gaimin Gladiators and Team Falcons.
In the second stage, they continued their impressive form. Talon achieved best-of-three victories against BetBoom Team, Yakult Brothers, Gaimin Gladiators, and Nigma Galaxy. Despite their losses to PARIVISION and Aurora Gaming, the results were enough to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
This performance earned them significant EPT points, propelling them to seventh place in the standings. Honestly, I really felt the energy the team has brought this season—it was amazing!
Talon Joins the Elite in Riyadh
By entering the Top 8 of the EPT standings, Talon joins giants like PARIVISION, Team Spirit, Team Liquid, Tundra Esports, and others. Two additional teams also qualified: Gaimin Gladiators as the defending champions, and Xtreme Gaming via the AFC Champions League.
23savage's Victorious Return
Talon's recent resurgence can be attributed to the return of legendary Thai carry center Nuengnara "23savage" Teeramahanon. He returned to Talon on May 10 after an unsuccessful stint with OG. His return reunited him with mid-major Rafli Fathur 'Mikoto' Rahman. Together, they led Talon to Top 3 finishes at both the Lima Major and Riyadh Masters 2023.
A Fierce New Lineup Emerges
Talon now features:
• 23savage
• Mikoto
• Rising stars Chung 'Ws`' Wei Shen and Tri 'Jhocam' Kuncoro
• Veteran captain Carlo 'KuKu' Palad
The team is looking its best right now. The chemistry between the players is back — and it shows in their play.
Frankly, I've been waiting for this moment for this team to come together. And it's finally here.
The Road Continues: The Playoffs and Beyond
While they've already exceeded expectations, Talon's journey isn't over yet. The Dream League Season 26 Playoffs conclude on June 1. Talon is preparing to face elite teams such as PARIVISION, BetBoom, Gaimin Gladiators, and Aurora Gaming.
With their World Cup qualification confirmed, they can enter the finals with greater confidence and composure.
Esports World Cup 2025: What to Expect
The Dota 2 Esports World Cup kicks off on July 8 and runs until July 19 at Boulevard Riyadh City in Saudi Arabia. Sixteen of the world's best teams will compete head-to-head, with the winner receiving the largest share of a prize pool of $3 million (SR11,250,000).
The Talon Esports team has already proven itself among the best. Now, with all these improvements and developments in the world of video games, it's time to see how far the team can go in their journey.
