Thai midlaner Erik "tOfu" Engel has officially joined Team Liquid. After many years of competing against Liquid in major tournaments, he is joining the team he once battled against to help the roster in the new season following The International 2025. Previously, tOfu played for Gaimin Gladiators, where he, alongside Marcus "Ace" Højlgeren, achieved victories at majors and became a prize-winner at The International.

Emotions about Joining a Former Rival

tOfu shared his thoughts on joining a team he frequently faced in major tournaments:

It feels really cool. I've played against Team Liquid more than any other team, and due to these constant encounters, we developed a sense of friendly rivalry. I've always had great relationships with the players and coach of Team Liquid. I'm excited to start a new chapter with them.

  

According to the player, the 2023 season, with numerous finals between Liquid and Gaimin Gladiators, became one of the strongest rivalries in Dota 2 history, and now tOfu eagerly anticipates creating a shared history with his former opponents.

Experience and Career

tOfu entered Dota 2 relatively recently—about five years ago—but has gained extensive experience in that time:

I've been through a lot before becoming a professional player, and I chose this path consciously. There were sacrifices, lots of travel, competitions, adrenaline on stage, and unique experiences that ordinary people don't get. It was worth it.

  

He also noted that he almost became a professional in Counter-Strike and was close to qualifying for Worlds in League of Legends, but Dota 2 became his true passion.

The Return of the tOfu and Ace Duo

tOfu joins Team Liquid alongside Ace, with whom he has played for the past five years. The player noted that their collaboration in Liquid promises to be productive:

I highly value Ace as a player and a friend. We've been playing together for a long time, and Liquid knows our strengths and what we can bring to the team. I'm confident that this roster has enormous potential.

  

Debut at BLAST Slam IV

The newly updated Team Liquid lineup will soon debut at BLAST Slam IV. tOfu emphasized:

I want to be dominant from the start. We still have a lot of work to do, need to define the team's style, communication, and game identity. But we are motivated and geared for success.

  

Message to Fans

tOfu also addressed Team Liquid fans and his own supporters:

Team Liquid has a huge fan base, and for a long time, they cheered against me. I hope we can put that behind us and build a new future together.