Moin Khot
Sep, 01.2023
Quest Esports, formerly known as Ooredoo Thunders, has achieved the improbable, going from the open qualifiers to clinching a spot at The International (TI) 2023 in a single season. Quest Esports embarked on their incredible journey through the open qualifiers of the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) for the 2023 season.
Composing a diverse roster of Middle-Eastern and Eastern European talent, the team, led by players like Aybek "TA2000" Tokayev and Tony "No!ob" Assaf, started DPC in Division II. Their determination and skill propelled them to an unexpected promotion to Division I after finishing atop the Winter Tour.
Quest Esports’ Journey in The International 2023 So Far
Match 1: Quest vs. KZ Team (Upper Bracket First Round)
In their opening salvo of the Western European regional qualifier, Quest Esports showed their mettle by sweeping KZ Team 2-0 in the upper bracket's first round. This victory set the tone for their qualifying campaign and showcased their early dominance. Quest displayed impeccable teamwork and strategic prowess, underlining their determination to secure a spot at The International 2023.
Match 2: Quest vs. Luna Galaxy (Upper Bracket Second Round)
Quest's journey faced its first major challenge in the upper bracket's second round when they encountered Luna Galaxy. Despite being the favorites, Quest encountered resistance and suffered a 1-2 upset loss. This defeat, while a setback, only fueled their determination to bounce back in the lower bracket. It served as a reminder that in the world of competitive Dota 2, no victory can be taken for granted.
Match 3: Quest vs. OG (Lower Bracket Quarterfinals)
The lower bracket quarterfinals brought about a historic moment as Quest Esports faced off against the legendary OG. In a shocking turn of events, Quest emerged victorious, knocking out the two-time TI champions and marking the first time OG missed a TI tournament in their history. The victory not only secured Quest's progress but also solidified their reputation as formidable contenders in the Western European qualifier.
Match 4: Quest vs. Team Secret (Lower Bracket Semifinals)
Quest's journey continued to gather momentum in the lower bracket semifinals when they squared off against Team Secret, a team with a storied history in Dota 2. In a thrilling clash, Quest displayed nerves of steel and emerged triumphant, ending Clement "Puppey" Ivanov's remarkable streak of attending every iteration of TI. The victory was a testament to Quest's growth and their undeniable skill, setting the stage for an epic showdown in the lower bracket finals.
Match 5: Quest vs. Luna Galaxy (Lower Bracket Finals)
The ultimate test for Quest Esports came in the lower bracket finals against Luna Galaxy. The stakes were high as the winner would claim the coveted second spot for Western Europe at TI 2023. Quest rose to the occasion, delivering a commanding performance. Game one was a 40-minute stomp, with No!ob and OmaR leading the way. In game two, they displayed unwavering determination, securing a 2-0 series sweep and punching their ticket to the prestigious international tournament. This victory not only solidified their position but also marked the end of an unforgettable journey from open qualifiers to the grand stage of The International 2023.
Also read: Entity Secures Back-to-Back Qualification for The International 2023
The story of Quest Esports is not just about their journey to TI 2023; it's a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and passion that drive esports athletes. As they prepare to compete on the global stage, fans eagerly await Quest's performance at The International 2023, where they aim to continue their Cinderella story and etch their names into Dota 2 history.