GamerLegion secured a hard-fought victory over SAW, eliminating the Portuguese squad from ESL Pro League Season 21 after a 2-1 series win. Despite a sluggish start, the international team found their rhythm and dominated on defense, ultimately securing a spot in the 2-2 pool of Stage 2 in Stockholm.
Their journey in the series started on a rough note as SAW took full control of Train, surging to a 10-2 lead on the attack. GamerLegion struggled to find any footing as André “Ag1l” Gil put on a spectacular performance with a 1.96 rating, while Jan “cej0t” Dyl delivered a punishing 115 ADR. SAW wasted no time closing out the first map, making it seem like the series could quickly slip away from GamerLegion.
However, the tables turned on Inferno. GamerLegion, initially slow out of the gates, managed to recover as the half progressed and leveled the scoreline by the break. When the sides switched, Fredrik “REZ” Sterner took over on defense, delivering a stellar performance that left SAW without answers. His impact ensured a swift finish, allowing GamerLegion to push the series to a deciding third map.
Ancient proved to be a battleground where GamerLegion showcased their defensive strength. Oldřich “PR” Nový and Henrich “sl3nd” Hevesi combined for 31 frags, helping their team secure a commanding 9-3 lead by halftime. SAW attempted to rally in the second half, chipping away at the deficit and creating tense moments, but a crucial 1v1 clutch by Sebastian “Tauson” Tauson Lindelof at 11-8 shut down their hopes of a comeback.
With this victory, GamerLegion move forward in the tournament, keeping their playoff aspirations alive as they prepare for a must-win match in the final round of Stage 2. Meanwhile, SAW’s impressive upset over Natus Vincere in their opening match could not be replicated in the later rounds, bringing their campaign in Stockholm to an end. With no LAN events on the immediate schedule, Christopher “MUTiRiS” Fernandes and his team will now shift their focus to the upcoming Austin Major’s MRQ, hoping to bounce back stronger.
