The International 2018: Main Event Bracket Analysis

Upper Bracket Matches

First of all, let me explain how the Upper Bracket match ups work. Group toppers, say A1 and B1, get the choice to choose between the 3rd and 4th placed teams of the other group. Like, A1 can choose between B3 and B4. The second placed team, A2 will be facing B3 or B4 depending on A1's choice. Similarly, Team Liquid and VGJ.Storm chose their initial opponents and the other two matches were decided accordingly.

Let us take a look at all the matches individually.

Team Liquid vs Optic Gaming

Optic is one of the dark horses of the tournament. While Liquid are the stern favorites. Liquid finished 13-3 while Optic finished 8-8. Liquid might as well end up being the first team to win back to back TIs while Optic can provide a huge upset. It is to be seen what eventually happens although I predict Liquid to steamroll past Optic.

Prediction - Team Liquid

Virtus.Pro vs PSG.LGD Gaming

Virtus Pro was the biggest favorites to win TI. While PSG was the hope of the Chinese, in the year of the Chinese. They have matched up against each other early on and will certainly give us a game to remember. A best of 3 between two of the best teams in the world is a mouth-watering prospect. However, I will go for VP to upset the Chinese.

Prediction - Virtus.Pro

VGJ.Storm vs OG

The matchup of the overachievers. OG and VGJ.Storm exceeded all expectations by finishing much higher than expected. While VGJ topped the group with a record of 12-4 and OG finished with 8-8. VGJ's form has looked unstoppable as of late and they should easily beat OG to qualify.

Prediction - VGJ.Storm

EG vs Team Secret

EG are on a roll while Secret maintained their status as the most consistent team ever. EG has a record of 13-3 while Secret scrapped through with a record of 8-8. Two of the best teams in the world, this should also be an incredible series of Dota. As of who will win, my heart says EG will continue their winning ways and defeat Secret.

Prediction - Evil Geniuses