Team Liquid is one of the most successful and well-respected organizations in the competitive Dota 2 scene. Having entered Dota 2 in 2012, the organization has built a legacy through multiple championship-winning rosters, culminating in victories at The International 2017 and The International 2024. With a strategic approach to roster management and a deep commitment to competitive excellence, Team Liquid continues to be a dominant force in the professional Dota 2 landscape.
Team Liquid – Formation and Early Years
Founded in 2000, Team Liquid initially focused on StarCraft: Brood War but later expanded into multiple esports titles. The organization’s journey in Dota 2 began in 2012 when they acquired a North American team featuring TC, FLUFFNSTUFF, ixmike88, BuLba, and Korok. This roster quickly made a name for itself in the competitive scene.
The team started securing victories in regional tournaments such as the American Dota 2 League Season 1 and the RaidCall Dota 2 League Season 2. Their breakthrough moment came at The International 2013, where they shocked the esports world by eliminating LGD Gaming and finishing in 7th-8th place.
Transition to a European Roster
Despite their early successes, the North American roster struggled to maintain top-tier performance. After finishing in 9-10th place at The International 2014, Team Liquid decided to disband the squad and take a temporary break from Dota 2.
In October 2015, Team Liquid returned with a brand-new European roster led by Kuro “KuroKy” Salehi Takhasomi. This new lineup featured players like Fata-, JerAx, and GH, who would go on to shape Team Liquid’s legacy.
Early Triumphs and Challenges
The European roster quickly found success, winning tournaments such as the Dota 2 Champions League Season 6, The Defense Season 5, and BTS Europe #3. They cemented their place among the world’s best by finishing second at The Shanghai Major 2016 and ESL One Manila 2016.
However, despite their strong performances in the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC), Team Liquid suffered a disappointing early exit at The International 2016, finishing in 7-8th place. This setback led to further roster changes in the following year.
The Golden Era – TI7 Victory
In January 2017, Team Liquid assembled what would become its most iconic roster: KuroKy, Miracle-, GH, MinD_ContRoL, and MATUMBAMAN. This “golden roster” transformed the team’s fortunes and dominated the competitive scene.
Road to The International 2017
Throughout 2017, Team Liquid performed exceptionally well, winning several key tournaments, including StarLadder i-League StarSeries Season 3, DreamLeague Season 7, and EPICENTER 2017. Their consistency and aggressive playstyle made them a favorite heading into The International 2017.
Their TI7 campaign was remarkable. After dropping to the lower bracket early in the playoffs, Team Liquid embarked on an unforgettable run to the Grand Finals. They secured a 3-0 victory against Newbee, becoming the first team in TI history to achieve a clean sweep in the Grand Finals. This victory solidified their place in Dota 2 history.
Post-TI7 – Roster Changes and New Challenges
Following their TI7 triumph, Team Liquid retained most of their lineup and continued to dominate tournaments. However, in 2019, the TI7-winning roster parted ways with Team Liquid to form Nigma Galaxy. In response, Team Liquid signed the ex-Alliance roster, consisting of miCKe, qojqva, Boxi, Taiga, and Insania.
Ups and Downs
The new roster initially struggled but managed to win ESL One Germany 2020. While they qualified for both majors in 2021, they failed to secure direct entry to The International 2021.
In 2022, the team recruited MATUMBAMAN and zai from Team Secret. This strengthened their performance, helping them qualify for The International 2022 through the Last Chance Qualifier. They finished in an impressive top 3 position.
Recent Developments – TI 2024 Victory
In 2023, MATUMBAMAN retired, leading to the addition of Nisha from Team Secret. Throughout the year, Team Liquid showcased consistency, although they frequently finished as runner-up to Gaimin Gladiators.
The International 2024 Champions
In 2024, zai announced an indefinite break from competitive play, after which the team signed Neta “33” Shapira as the new captain. With a roster comprising miCKe, Nisha, 33, Boxi, and iNSaNiA, Team Liquid made history by winning The International 2024.
This triumph marked an unprecedented milestone—as Team Liquid became the first organization to win The International with two entirely different rosters, reinforcing their status as one of Dota 2’s greatest teams.
Current Roster and Achievements
Active Roster
- Michael “miCKe” Vu – Carry
- Michał “Nisha” Jankowski – Mid
- Neta “33” Shapira – Offlane (Captain)
- Samuel “Boxi” Svahn – Support
- Aydin “iNSaNiA” Sarkohi – Support
Recent Achievements
- Winners of The International 2024
- 2nd Place at multiple tournaments in 2023
- Top 3 finish at The International 2022
- ESL One Germany 2020 Champions
How to Support Team Liquid in Dota 2
- Follow their matches on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- Engage with them on social media.
- Purchase official Team Liquid merchandise.
- Join community discussions on esports forums.
FAQ – Team Liquid and Dota 2
What is Team Liquid best known for in Dota 2?
Team Liquid is best known for winning The International 2017 and The International 2024, making them one of the few organizations to secure multiple TI victories.
Who are the key players in Team Liquid’s history?
Some legendary players for Team Liquid include KuroKy, Miracle-, MATUMBAMAN, miCKe, and Nisha.
What was Team Liquid’s most successful Dota 2 roster?
The “golden roster” of 2017—KuroKy, Miracle-, GH, MinD_ContRoL, and MATUMBAMAN—remains their most successful lineup.
Has Team Liquid ever changed regions?
Yes, Team Liquid initially competed as a North American team before transitioning to a European-based roster in 2015.
Who is the current captain of Team Liquid’s Dota 2 roster?
Neta “33” Shapira is the current captain after joining in 2024.
What are Team Liquid’s biggest tournament victories?
Their most significant victories are The International 2017 and The International 2024.
Where can I watch Team Liquid’s matches?
Team Liquid’s matches are streamed live on Twitch, YouTube, and other esports streaming platforms.
How does Team Liquid participate in Dota 2’s competitive scene?
They compete in the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC), securing invitations to Major tournaments and The International.
What role does coach Blitz play in Team Liquid?
Blitz serves as the strategic coach, providing game-planning and draft execution support.
How can I support Team Liquid?
You can follow their matches, purchase merchandise, and engage with their social media channels.
