Prediction for European RMR Group B – Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024: Can the Favorites Withstand the Magic of Majors?
The RMR qualifiers are nearing their conclusion, and soon the final list of participants will be revealed. This article focuses on Group B, which, according to many, is significantly weaker than Group A. To some extent, this sentiment is justified, especially in terms of identifying clear favorites. While this group has standout leaders, the battle in the lower part of the table promises to be fierce. It’s not just about achieving a 3-2 record; some teams even have a shot at finishing with a 3-1 score. Let’s analyze the participants and highlight our favorites in Group B.
Tournament Format
Despite the slightly weaker lineup, the format and the number of slots remain identical to Group A. The group offers seven spots in the main event, with four teams directly advancing to the Elimination Stage (formerly known as the “Legends” stage).
It’s worth noting that Europe lost three slots due to its poor performance at the last Major in Copenhagen. Even achieving three wins in the Swiss system may not guarantee a Major spot. Among the three teams with a 3-2 record, one will advance based on a better round difference, while the second slot will be decided in a head-to-head match between the 7th and 8th place teams.
Tournament Favorites: A Guaranteed Elimination Stage
It’s hard to doubt G2’s ability to pass this stage, even considering their occasional struggles after major tournament victories. With plenty of time since their BLAST World Finals win, the Samurai should be prepared for what might be the last dance of their current lineup.In previous RMR predictions, we’ve speculated about potential roster changes, but this shouldn’t affect G2 here. In fact, it might even motivate players aiming to secure their spots alongside stars like NiKo and m0NESY. With uncertain prospects for this organization, this is the perfect opportunity for them to make history. While it’s too early to call them the champions of Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024, they are undoubtedly among the top three contenders.
Team Spirit also ranks among the tournament’s favorites. Failing to qualify for the Major would be a disaster, especially for one of 2024’s best players, donk. Watching him dominate Faceit games, there’s little doubt he’ll carry his team with minimal support. The Dragons have already proven capable of building around their star, securing a few titles this way. The weaker lineup in this group makes it unlikely anyone can counter Spirit’s deadly force. Even if they slip up once, they’re bound to reach the next stage.
Another strong contender is the unpredictable Virtus.pro. If there’s a stage to showcase their best, it’s the Major. Recent LAN events saw them making playoff appearances, taking steps toward reclaiming their top-tier status. With Jame boasting a massive Chinese fanbase eager to see him in action, VP has every reason to perform. While they can be inconsistent, we predict a cautious 3-1 result for the Bears. Their favorable bracket and BO3 format offer some room for error.
Finally, the Turkish roster Eternal Fire might seem like a surprising pick to some, but their playoff run at the last Major and strong Tier-1 performances make their inclusion logical. Their consistency and strength in both individual skill and team coordination surpass most Group B teams, making them a safe bet for advancement.
3:0 – G2, Team Spirit
3:1 – Virtus.pro, Eternal Fire
Contenders: Teams Fighting for a Spot
Astralis arrives at the RMR with a slightly altered lineup. cadiaN replaces br0, while device transitions to a full-time AWPer. However, recent news about device’s health issues and his withdrawal from the RMR has raised doubts. While Astralis has faced frequent health-related issues, this lineup cannot afford to miss a second consecutive Major. Under cadiaN’s leadership, they still have a shot at reaching the Elimination Stage.
Heroic also deserves recognition as a potential favorite. Although we’ve placed them just below the top-tier teams, their recent performances have been impressive, both online and offline. With degster’s visa issues resolved, this roster is starting to build momentum and could achieve a 3-1 result.
The final spot is highly contested, with 11 teams (including Astralis) in the mix. However, we see teams like NIP, TSM, and Passion UA as unlikely to progress due to their lack of Tier-1 experience and inconsistent results. A surprise qualifier from these rosters would be shocking.
Based on bracket predictions, the final slots might go to 3DMAX or 9Pandas. Aurora’s internal conflicts make their results unpredictable, while teams like BIG, B8, and Sashi have strong foundations but face tough matchups.
3:1 – Heroic
3:2 – Astralis, 3DMAX
Conclusion
The BO1 format in the initial matches means even a single mistake by a favorite could shuffle the bracket and benefit underdogs. Let’s hope the top teams hold their ground early on, ensuring a higher likelihood of accurate predictions.
3:0 – G2, Team Spirit
3:1 – Virtus.pro, Eternal Fire, Heroic
3:2 – Astralis, 3DMAX
