Virtus.pro`s journey through the Riyadh Masters 2025 Dota 2 tournament has, thus far, been a demanding one. Following a challenging performance in the group stage, the team finds itself facing a critical elimination match. Midlaner Artyom “Lorenof” Melnyk offered insight into the squad`s current state and mindset ahead of this high-stakes encounter.
The group stage proved particularly difficult for the CIS-based roster, concluding with a winless 0-6 record. This outcome necessitated a period of internal reflection and analysis, a point Lorenof highlighted when discussing the team`s approach to the upcoming games.
Speaking via the team`s communication channels, Lorenof acknowledged the prior difficulties directly. “After 0:6, we made certain conclusions within the team,” he stated, indicating that the tough losses weren`t simply accepted but were instead used as a catalyst for identifying issues and strategizing improvements. He added that the team would “approach these games charged up,” suggesting a renewed energy and focus derived from their analysis. He also included a succinct message to the community, thanking supporters while offering a somewhat ironic nod to critics, suggesting their opinions, positive or negative, are noted.
This revitalized determination will be immediately tested in the Elimination Stage. Virtus.pro is set to face Team Falcons in a match where the stakes are clear: win and continue the fight in the playoffs of the $3 million Riyadh Masters tournament, or lose and be eliminated from the competition.
Scheduled for July 12th, the clash against Team Falcons represents a pivotal moment for Virtus.pro. It`s an opportunity to demonstrate that the lessons learned from a difficult group stage have translated into concrete improvements and that the team possesses the resilience required to navigate the unforgiving single-elimination format. All eyes will be on whether VP can translate their stated “charged up” mentality into performance on the server.
Gilbert Pendleton 
Wesley Dunham