The opening match of the MPL Philippines Season 18 playoffs delivered an explosive start, with third-seeded ONIC PH and sixth-seeded TNC engaging in a thrilling five-game series. Showing toughness and composure, ONIC PH pulled through to secure a 3-2 win and advance to the upper bracket semifinals.
ONIC PH Fends Off TNC Pro Team
During the regular season, ONIC dominated, winning both of its matches by a score of 2-1. ONIC asserted that same dominance early in Game 1, racing out to a 7-1 kill lead through eight minutes. But TNC suddenly turned the game around in the nine-minute teamfight, picking up four crucial kills. The Phoenix maintained control from that point on and eventually sealed the Game 1 win, led by Big J’s stellar 7-1-2 KDA on Obsidia.
Undeterred by the Game 1 loss, ONIC PH seized early control once again in Game 2. Unlike the opener, the Super Family never lost its grip, cruising to a commanding 16-5 victory with a massive 9,000-gold lead. Kingkong put on a clinic on Aulus with a 7-1-8 KDA, while Kirk proved equally vital to the win with his crucial plays on Alice.
ONIC once again opened strong in Game 3, but TNC found its way back with key pick-offs. But everything changed during a pivotal 10-minute teamfight. Brusko came through in a massive way, catching four TNC members to set up a clean wipe. ONIC put on the finishing touches shortly after to take a 2-1 series lead.
The Phoenix, however, refused to go down without a fight. For the first time in the series, TNC controlled the opening minutes of Game 4, dictating the map while also building a solid economic lead. Although ONIC slowly chipped away at the deficit, TNC slammed the door shut during the clash at the second Lord—knocking down three ONIC members before marching straight into their base to force Game 5.
ONIC Proves Its Powerhouse Status
True to form, ONIC took early command of the Game 5 decider, mounting a 5-1 kill lead to put TNC on the back foot. TNC battled fiercely and forced its way back into the game, but a mistake during the final Lord fight proved costly, allowing ONIC to capitalize and secure the hard-fought series.
Despite its struggles late in the regular season, ONIC Philippines delivered when it mattered most, capturing its spot in the final four and marking its fourth consecutive top-four finish. It now advances to face second-seeded Team Falcons PH in the semifinals.
Meanwhile, fourth-seeded Aurora Gaming also went the full distance in a grueling battle against fifth-seeded Smart Omega. Despite falling behind 1-2 in the series, the Northern Lights dug deep to complete the comeback victory and book their place in the top four, setting up a semifinal clash against top-seeded Team Liquid PH.
