Two heavyweight teams face off in the Upper Bracket Finals of the MPL Season 16 Playoffs. The unstoppable Aurora PH, who have been on a stellar run with 14 straight wins, and the defending MPL Philippines and MSC champions, Team Liquid.
TLPH was coming off two impressive playoff wins. They eliminated the Falcons 3-1 and swept the M6 champions, ONIC PH, 3-0 to send them to the lower bracket. However, Aurora remained the team to beat, finishing the season with the best record and having dominated TLPH in the season with a 4-1 record.
The Cavalry surged ahead in the opening round with Sanford on the Arlott, securing a double kill and a quick 4-0 lead for TLPH. Team Liquid looked firmly in control of the game with a 12-3 score and a 10k gold lead. They even managed to take down Light and also secure the Lord in one play. However, Edward came up clutch with his Lapu-Lapu, completing their defense and the comeback. Aurora carried their momentum into Game 2, seizing the upper hand early. However, Team Liquid slowly worked their way back into the game. In a crucial Lord fight, Sanford came up big, unleashing massive damage and turning the game around as TLPH eliminated three players from Aurora. From there, The Cavalry knew exactly what to do, sealing the win and tying the series 1-1.
However, Game 3 was all Aurora. They dominated right from the start, maintaining control with a 14-4 score and a 7k gold lead. TLPH refused to back down and was able to secure their objectives, but Aurora’s lead was just too much. Yue earned MVP honors in Game 3 with a flawless 8-0-12 KDA on the Yve.
From that point on, Aurora never looked back. The league’s Most Improved Player, Domengkite, took the spotlight in Game 4, securing a decisive four-man takedown that powered his team to a dominant 17-4 win. Light, the regular season MVP, also delivered a steady and efficient 4-1-8 KDA performance.
With the win, Aurora silenced their doubters and also became the first team to qualify for M7, as they look to redeem themselves after a disappointing run in M6. Meanwhile, Team Liquid PH awaits the winner of ONIC PH and TNC Pro Team in the Lower Bracket Finals.
