Smart Omega’s strategic character changes paid off in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Fnatic ONIC Philippines, ending their undefeated run on Saturday night during the second day of the final weekend elimination round of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines (MPL S14) Season 14.
Led by standout performances from Andrew “Andoryuuu” Flora, Omega bounced back from a crushing 4-15 loss in Game 1 with a dominating 14-4 win in Game 2, followed by a 14-7 triumph in Game 3. The pivotal showdown took place at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
“Game 1 was a disaster. So, we decided to change our play style going into Games 2 and 3. We’re happy with the outcome, but the job’s not done,” said Omega’s coach, Alec Alvarado, after the victory.
Flora, only 19 years old, was instrumental in the win, securing seven kills in the final match. With the victory, Omega improved to a 9-5 record, moving into third place and putting themselves in contention to overtake second-placed Falcon AP.Bren (9-4).
Though Fnatic’s remarkable 13-match winning streak came to an end, their 13-1 record still secured them the top seed heading into the finals playoffs, set to take place from October 16 to 20.
The fate of Falcon AP.Bren now hinges on their upcoming game against Team Liquid Philippines, with a win securing them the second seed.
Flora’s switch from the assassin character Nolan in Game 2 to Hayabusa in Game 3 disrupted Fnatic’s strategies. Despite their efforts to hold their ground, tactical errors at the 14-18 mark in Game 2 allowed Omega to secure two more kills, sealing the match after over 27 minutes of intense gameplay.
Earlier, Team Aurora secured a 2-0 sweep against RSG Philippines with decisive 13-5 and 14-4 victories, bringing their record to 8-5, which they now share with Team Liquid Philippines.
RSG’s loss allowed Blacklist International to clinch the final playoff spot with a 4-9 record. Aurora will face Blacklist International in their last elimination round match this Sunday at 5 p.m.
In another earlier match, Team Liquid Philippines (TLPH) defeated TNC Pro 2-1. TNC Pro, with a 0-13 record, has now set the worst season performance in MPL Philippines history since Season 8.
Flora’s shift from the assassin character Nolan in Game 2 to Hayabusa in Game 3, threw off Fnatic’s game plan.
In Game 2, Fnatic tried to hold their ground, but tactical mistakes after catching up at 14-18, Omega managed to pull off two more kills, and end the contest in their favor after more than 27 minutes of action.
