Liquid battles through setbacks to secure final IEM Rio spot

Team Liquid has officially earned their place in the 2024 IEM Rio lineup, but their path to qualification was anything but easy. As they aimed for the last qualification slot, the North American team, which moved from Europe to pursue better competitive chances, faced unexpected challenges, especially from Team Legacy. 

 Though favored, Liquid stumbled in their first match against Legacy, leading to a frustrating defeat. This setback pushed them into the elimination bracket, where they quickly regrouped and achieved a decisive victory over FLUFFY AIMERS. The final clash with Legacy reignited doubts, but this time Liquid emerged victorious, thanks in part to star player Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken, who rallied the team to clinch a critical win. 

 This victory earned Liquid the final spot among the 16 teams heading to Rio, joining powerhouses like Vitality, Astralis, and Natus Vincere. IEM Rio 2024, set from October 7 to 13, promises high-stakes action, and Liquid’s unpredictable performance leaves fans eager to see if they’ll rise to the challenge.