The International is the biggest DOTA 2 tournament in the world. As of writing this, the prize pool is over $30 million. An incredulous amount of money for an esport, and it remains the largest prize pool in all of esports. This tournament brings out the greatest DOTA 2 players all looking to claim the aegis of champions. Some for the second time! Anything can happen at TI, for example OG’s magic run last year. Also check out When did EG last get 3rd?
10. Alliance
The kings in the north are back! After some riveting games in the final major of the year, Epicenter, Alliance managed to qualify for the International. The expectations for this squad aren’t huge so hopefully they can do well with little pressure on them.
9. Ninjas in Pyjamas
ppd has put together a solid squad for another attempt at the aegis. NiP showed good performances throughout the whole DPC season and are looking strong heading into The International. With support from coach, Pajkatt, they should be able to go a decent distance in the tournament.
8. TNC Predator
The Filipino super squad, TNC Predator had an absolutely fantastic finish to the DOTA Pro Circuit. They have started playing extremely cohesively as a team. Many attribute their success to bringing on board their coach, Heen. Heen was also credited for greatly assisting in Team Liquid’s TI7 win. Perhaps TI9 is TNC’s chance to claim the aegis for the Philippines.
7. OG
The returning champions of The International. Can they two-peat the tournament and claim the aegis for a second. They are the only team that are able to have all team members win a TI for second time together. They showed some great performances at Epicenter even though their captain Notail was sick and had their coach, Soschka, filling in. Here’s hoping they put on a great performance for the fans in Shanghai’s Mercedes Stadium.
6. Team Liquid
TI7 champs, Team Liquid are hungry for another aegis, and even kicked one of their star players as they felt they were getting stale. The change seems to have injected some life into the team after their showing at Epicenter. It will be great to see how they do as a new squad. Also the much anticipated Team Liquid vs Chaos will provide some hype if the match up occurs.
5. Virtus.pro
At The International 2019, Virtus.pro will be representing CIS, along with NaVi (Natus Vincere). They don’t have the greatest track record at TI tournaments. But I am sure they are hungry to do well this year. They are a talented squad that can battle with the best of them. However, they sometimes have some mindset issues and can tilt during games. If they get that under control they will be a strong contender for the aegis.
4. PSG.LGD
PSG.LGD have had two strong DPC seasons and are looking hungry for an aegis. Coming in a runners up from last year will definitely give them some fire during the tournament. With fy’s supporting and captaining, and the squads skills they have the potential to go far. Also being in front of a home crowd will greatly boost their morale and confidence.
3. Evil Geniuses
Where else can we put EG but in 3rd place! Memes aside, EG had a great DOTA Pro Circuit season and are looking hot coming into TI. Hopefully they can pull out some great performances this year and show the people they can claim higher than 3rd! A second aegis would make this first team to win two TIs but two different squads, with only SumaiL being in both squads. There is also potential for s4 to claim his second aegis.
2. Vici Gaming
Another team that will heavily benefit from the home crowd advantage. VG had a very strong finish to the DPC claiming 3rd place in the rankings. The squad have played together for a great season and with rOtk providing guidance they should perform well at the event.
1. Team Secret
Puppey is looking for a second aegis, and he has built an incredible team around him. Team Secret has looked pretty much unstoppable throughout the whole DPC season up until the end. However, much like Virtus.pro, Team Secret has historically had issues performing at The International. Let’s hope with this new squad and a great season under their belt they can go far in this tournament.
Again this list is rather subjective and the rankings of these teams are very unpredictable. Especially at The International! Please let us know if the comments what you think. Should we have included some other teams? Rank some teams to high or low? We would love to hear you opinion. Also you can check out our other TI9 lists for top carries, mid laners, offlaners, support players and of course the coaches!
Alche is a passionate writer about many topics and wants to share knowledge in a simple way so all readers can enjoy and learn.