As the 16th IESF World Esports Championship (WEC) 2024 approaches, excitement and anticipation are building in the esports community, particularly within the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) scene. Held at SEF Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 11 to 19, 2024, the tournament will showcase the best teams from across the globe vying for the championship. Among the competitors, two nations—the Philippines and Malaysia—stand out as Indonesia’s fiercest rivals. Indonesia's Esports Team ~ Ready to Conquer the IESF 2024 and Win Gold in MLBB and PUBG Mobile
Indonesia’s Preparations for IESF 2024
Indonesia has always been a powerhouse in the competitive Mobile Legends arena. Their victory at the inaugural M Series World Championship remains a proud moment for the nation, thanks to Evos Legends, the team that brought home the title. However, the global Mobile Legends stage has evolved, and the competition has become more intense.
The Indonesian national team, comprising star players such as Rezzz, Alberttt, CW, Kiboy, Sanz, and Luke, is gearing up for a fierce battle. Backed by rigorous training and solid teamwork, the team aims to secure the gold medal for their nation. According to Calvin Winata, better known as CW, Indonesia is confident in its roster and preparations. He believes that the team’s dedication and strategy will carry them through the tournament.
"We trust our roster, our process, and our preparation. Hopefully, we can win the gold medal," said CW during the Send-Off Ceremony for the Indonesian Esports Team at the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Jakarta on November 8, 2024.
The Philippines: A Dominant Force in Mobile Legends
The Philippines has consistently proven to be a formidable opponent in the global Mobile Legends scene. Their dominance is evident in the prestigious M Series World Championship, where Filipino teams have claimed the championship in four out of five seasons. Teams like Bren Esports, Blacklist International, Liquid Echo, and Falcons AP Bren have not only won titles but have also set benchmarks for excellence in gameplay.
The Filipino playstyle is characterized by its strategic depth, adaptability, and exceptional individual mechanics. Filipino players are known for their ability to read the game, counter opponents’ strategies, and execute flawless team fights. This level of skill and experience makes the Philippines one of the most dangerous contenders in the IESF 2024.
CW himself acknowledged the dominance of the Philippines, noting their consistent performance in recent tournaments.
"Looking at the last few tournaments, the Philippines has been dominating. They’re a region to watch out for," he said.
Malaysia: The Rising Contender
While the Philippines has a legacy of dominance, Malaysia has emerged as a rising force in the Mobile Legends competitive scene. The country’s ascent to prominence was solidified with the victory of the Selangor Red Giants at the MLBB Mid Season Cup (MSC) 2024 held in Riyadh. The Red Giants triumphed over the highly favored Filipino team, Falcons AP Bren, in an intense 4-3 grand final showdown.
Malaysia’s recent achievements reflect the strength of its esports ecosystem, which has been growing steadily. The rise of Malaysian teams can be attributed to better infrastructure, stronger support systems, and a pool of talented players who have honed their skills in regional and international competitions.
CW highlighted Malaysia’s recent success, saying:
"Malaysia has been strong lately. They just won the MSC in Riyadh, and their players are really solid."
What Makes These Nations Fierce Rivals?
1. Historical Success and Experience
The Philippines and Malaysia bring years of competitive experience to the table. Filipino teams, with their championship pedigree, have a wealth of knowledge in high-pressure situations. Malaysian teams, on the other hand, have shown that they can adapt quickly and challenge the status quo, as seen in their recent MSC victory.
2. Exceptional Players and Coaches
Both nations boast some of the best players in the world. The Philippines has legendary players known for their clutch performances, while Malaysia has rising stars who have proven their mettle on the international stage. Additionally, the coaching staff in both nations is known for innovative strategies and deep understanding of the game.
3. Tactical Versatility
The ability to adapt to different opponents and strategies is a hallmark of both nations. Filipino teams excel in executing split-push strategies and precise team fights, while Malaysian teams have demonstrated resilience and creativity in overcoming tough opponents.
4. Mental Fortitude
Competing at the highest level requires immense mental toughness, and both nations have shown their ability to thrive under pressure. The grand finals of the MSC 2024, which went down to the wire, is a testament to their composure and determination.
The Path Forward for Indonesia
To overcome the formidable challenges posed by the Philippines and Malaysia, Indonesia needs to focus on several key areas:
1. Strengthening Team Synergy
Indonesia’s national team comprises some of the most talented players in the country. Building strong synergy among the roster is crucial for seamless coordination and execution during matches.
2. Strategic Innovation
Indonesia must bring fresh strategies to the table, including countering the unique playstyles of the Philippines and Malaysia. Analyzing past matches and adapting to opponents’ tactics will be essential.
3. Mental Preparedness
The pressure of representing a nation on the global stage can be overwhelming. Ensuring that the players are mentally prepared to handle high-stakes situations is as important as their physical preparation.
4. Utilizing Homegrown Talent
Indonesia has a deep pool of esports talent. Tapping into this talent and nurturing young players will ensure a continuous pipeline of skilled individuals for future competitions.
IESF 2024: A Global Esports Spectacle
The IESF World Esports Championship is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of esports as a global phenomenon. With three categories—Mobile Legends, Mobile Legends Women, and PUBG Mobile—the tournament promises to deliver thrilling matches and showcase the best of what esports has to offer.
For Indonesia, the goal is clear: to bring home the gold and assert its dominance in the Mobile Legends arena. While the challenges posed by the Philippines and Malaysia are significant, the Indonesian team’s determination and preparation offer hope for a victorious campaign.
As fans eagerly await the start of the tournament, one thing is certain: the battle for supremacy in Mobile Legends will be a spectacle to remember. Can Indonesia rise to the occasion and overcome its toughest rivals? Only time will tell.
