Превью The International 2019: TNC Predator

You may argue about the future World champions, but unfortunately you cannot argue about the team who will have the hardest time in Shanghai. TNC Predator are infiltrating the enemy territory!

Profile

Region: South-East Asia

DPC placement: 9

DPC points earned: 2046

Notable Results: 

• WESG 2018 — 1st place
• EPICENTER Major — 4th place
• The Kuala Lumpur Major — 5th-6th place

Roster:

1. Kim “Gabbi” Villafuerte  (Philippines)
2. Armel “Armel” Paul Tabos  (Philippines)
3. Carlo “Kuku” Palad (Philippines)
4. Timothy “Tims” Randrup (Philippines)
5. Nico “eyyou” Barcelon (Philippines)

Path to The International

TNC Predator have both started and finished this season with a blast: 5th-6th place in Malaysia and 4th place in Russia are worthy achievements. Between these two tournaments there was a slump. It may be attributed to a scandal with their offlaner, Kuku. Carlo had to miss the Chongqing Major as well as WESG 2018 finals. 

It is also worth mentioning that team has changed their coach and it could require some time to adapt to the changes. Nonetheless TNC Predator are that kind of wild card that can climb pretty high.

Strong sides

• Agressive style. The players really love hunting enemies down. Get advantage, snowball and choke the opponents until their ancient is destroyed. It is really fun to watch!
• Heen. The coach from South Korea had lots of experience while he was working with Team Liquid. Now he is doing great job in finding the perfect balance for his team.

 Weak sides

• Hate atmosphere. Local fans would not support TNC Predator after the Kuku scandal, to say the least. We should prepare for some loud boos in the arena.
• Inconsistency. Team results are swinging. Cold streaks mix with hot ones, and we're yet to know their status in Shanghai. 

The X-factor

Armel.  To understand the importance of this mid player, you need to know one thing: if he is on a roll, the team is on a roll, if he is having a bad day, the whole team is having a bad day. Armel has a huge potential and you should definitely pay attention to his performance.

Our expectations

7th-8th place. Out of all TI9 participants TNC Predator has the greatest chances to surprise everyone. They can climb very high, but they have their flaws. Regardless of the result their story will be entertaining.

The International 2019 will take place in Shanghai on August 15 — 25. The current prize pool has exceeded $32.000.000.