Shanghai Major Opening Stage Day 2 – Matches To Watch

The first day of the Shanghai Major Opening Stage lived up to the hype, delivering a handful of sick plays and eco Aces all throughout. We shouldn’t be expecting any less from the second day, as we’ll witness the first two teams qualifying for the main event and the first pair being eliminated from the competition. 

If you don’t have all day to watch the matches on Day 2 of the Opening Stage, here are the three I’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on.

MIBR vs. Passion UA

Kicking off the day, we’ll immediately have a showdown between MIBR and Passion UA, which is bound to be a clash of firepower. Both teams currently sit in the 1 – 1 pool, meaning this match will be played in a Best of 1 format where every misstep counts.

While neither team had a flawless first day, one thing is certain – both squads have their star players in top form. MIBR’s insani closed out the day with a stellar 1.30 rating, while jambo from Passion UA dominated Complexity Gaming with an impressive 24/12 K/D performance on Anubis.

Passion UA have really come out of nowhere this event and who doesn’t love a Cinderella run? They’re worth keeping an eye on for that alone.

This game is likely to unfold on Ancient or Anubis, two maps where both teams feel at home. With no clear veto edge for either side, we all can expect an intense battle with both teams bringing their A game.

Team Liquid vs. FlyQuest

If you missed the first day of the Opening Stage, you might assume this matchup would be a walk in the park for Team Liquid. However, FlyQuest shocked everyone with the quality of Counter-Strike they brought to the table. I had initially predicted a 0 – 3 finish for FlyQuest in my Pick’Ems, but I’ll admit that they’ve been playing some of the best Counter-Strike I’ve ever seen from them.

This matchup is part of the 2 – 0 pool, meaning the winner will secure a direct spot in the next stage. Notably, Australia is guaranteed a Top 16 representative, as either jks or the entire FlyQuest squad will punch their ticket to the Elimination Stage.

While Team Liquid remains the heavy favorite, it would be pretty bizzare to write FlyQuest off considering what they’ve been putting on the table. An upset, or at the very least, a close game, is absolutely on the horizon.

paiN Gaming vs. Cloud9

Another exciting Best of 1 matchup to watch is the face-off between paiN Gaming and Cloud9. This game makes the list because both teams showed flashes of brilliance on Day 1, but also with moments of inconsistency where they seemed to lose their footing entirely.

Cloud9 had a commanding 9 – 3 lead against Team Liquid on Ancient but completely fell apart on their T-side, ultimately losing the map in disappointing fashion. Meanwhile, paiN Gaming looked out of it against GamerLegion, as if they had forgotten how to play the game. However, both teams showcased their potential in dominant victories over tough opponents, reminding everyone of the firepower and potential they possess.

I think this Best of 1 is going to be a scrappy game, but in a good way. Expect a back-and-forth game filled with crazy plays and clutches as they fight it out at the Shanghai Major. Both teams certainly have the individuals capable of delivering standout performances. I’ll be keeping my eyes on HeavyGod throughout the game.