How teams came out of the lower bracket and won at The International

The lower bracket at The International Dota 2 tournament is a tough challenge for teams that face the possibility of immediate elimination after a loss in the upper bracket. Teams that drop into the lower bracket must win every match to continue their fight for the Aegis of Champions. However, some teams have managed to overcome all the difficulties, reach the finals, and even become champions despite their early setbacks.

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What is the Lower Bracket, and How Do Teams End Up There?

The lower bracket is part of the double elimination system used at The International. Teams that lose in the upper bracket get a second chance to continue participating in the tournament, but with no margin for error: any loss in the lower bracket means immediate elimination. The journey through the lower bracket involves playing a series of consecutive matches, which adds physical and mental strain on the teams, forcing them to perform at their absolute best.

How Can a Team Go Through the Lower Bracket and Become Champions?

To win The International from the lower bracket, a team must defeat all its opponents on the way to the grand finals. After a loss in the upper bracket, teams start fresh in the lower bracket, fighting match by match. If successful, they meet the upper bracket winners in the grand final. This path is incredibly challenging because teams from the lower bracket often have to play more matches and may be physically and mentally exhausted by the time they reach the finals. However, history has shown that it is possible — and examples of such victories continue to inspire fans and players alike.

Team Liquid — Champions of The International 2017

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At The International 2017, Team Liquid also made their way through the entire lower bracket to ultimately become champions of the tournament. After losing to Invictus Gaming in the upper bracket, Liquid started their climb from the quarterfinals of the lower bracket, where they secured victories over strong teams such as Virtus.pro, LGD.Forever Young, and Team Secret.

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Their journey was tough, but in every match, the team displayed incredible skill and tactical preparation. In the lower bracket final, Liquid faced LGD.Forever Young, winning 2-1, which opened the door to the grand final. In the decisive series against Newbee, Team Liquid dominated and won 3-0. This result made them the first champions to claim the Aegis of Champions after going through the entire lower bracket.

Team Liquid — Finalists of The International 2019

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Team Liquid at The International 2019 were one of the teams that fought their way through the lower bracket. After losing to PSG.LGD in the upper bracket quarterfinals, Liquid started their comeback, defeating Royal Never Give Up, Evil Geniuses, and Team Secret. These victories led them to a rematch against PSG.LGD in the lower bracket final, where Liquid once again emerged victorious.

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However, in the grand final, Liquid faced OG, already a Dota 2 legend. Despite their best efforts, Liquid lost 3-1, securing second place. Nevertheless, their journey through the lower bracket to the grand final became one of the tournament’s most impressive stories.

Team Spirit — Champions of The International 2021

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Team Spirit’s story at The International 2021 is a testament to the power of teamwork and resilience. After losing to Invictus Gaming in the upper bracket, Team Spirit began their lower bracket run, defeating Fnatic, OG, and Virtus.pro. In the lower bracket final, they faced Team Secret and secured a confident victory.

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Their next challenge was the grand final against PSG.LGD, one of the tournament favorites. In a tense five-game series, Team Spirit won 3-2, becoming The International 2021 champions. This victory became a symbol of how a team can rise to the top, even after falling into the lower bracket.

How These Stories Inspire New Players

The stories of teams that made their way through the lower bracket inspire both professional and aspiring players. They show that a loss is not the end but rather a challenge that can be overcome. These examples teach young players about perseverance and self-belief, reminding them that even after a setback, there is always a chance for a comeback and victory.

Conclusion

The lower bracket at The International is where legends are made. The victories of Team Liquid in 2017 and Team Spirit in 2021 are proof that through determination and an unbreakable spirit, teams can reach the heights of success, no matter how difficult the path may be. These stories remain a source of motivation for the entire esports community, inspiring the next generation of players to achieve greatness.