Close Game and GamerLegion Victory Over Passion UA in the Opening Stage of Shanghai Major 2024

On December 2, 2024, numerous exciting matches took place at the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024 , determining which teams would advance to the next stage of the tournament. In Round 4 of the Opening Stage, GamerLegion faced off against Passion UA, with both teams holding a 2-1 record from previous rounds.

The first map was picked by Passion UA, who chose Inferno, a map where they had shown strong performances in earlier matches. GamerLegion, starting on the Counter-Terrorist side, played more aggressively at the beginning. They utilized excellent positioning to deny Passion UA access to plant sites. The first half ended with a 9-3 lead for GL. After switching sides, Passion UA stepped up their game significantly but ultimately lost the map 13-6.

The second map, Mirage, was GamerLegion choice. Buoyed by their win on Inferno, they entered with confidence. However, Passion UA were not ready to give up. The first half was tightly contested, ending 7-5 in Passion UA's favor. The second half turned into an intense battle, with Passion UA completely dominating their opponents, winning six consecutive rounds without reply. They took the map, leveling the score 1-1.

The deciding game took place on Ancient, where the outcome would determine which team advanced to the Elimination Stage with a 3-1 record, and which would drop to 2-2, needing to play a decider match. After a tense start and an even exchange of rounds, GamerLegion pulled ahead, reaching an 11-3 lead. Many believed the game was over, but Passion UA had other plans. They staged a thrilling comeback, narrowing the score to 12-9. Despite their efforts, they fell short, and the map concluded 13-9 in favor of GamerLegion.

With a 2-1 victory in maps, GamerLegion advanced to the next stage of the tournament, while Passion UA, now at 2-2, will face a decisive match to stay in the competition.