Two matches determined the fate of the teams at the ESL Pro League Season 21 Play-in. In one of them, MIBR secured their place in the next stage by defeating TYLOO with a score of 2-0. In the other, Nemiga knocked HEROIC out of the tournament in a series with a score of 2-1.

These matches were particularly significant: one team was fighting for a spot in the main stage, the other for survival. Mistakes were too costly, and the tension was at its peak. Some solidified their positions, while others left the competition, taking the last step on this challenging path.

MIBR vs TYLOO

The first map, Inferno, was TYLOO's choice. The first half was evenly matched, with teams exchanging series of rounds, ending the first part with a score of 6-6. However, after switching sides, MIBR began to dominate and took the map 13-10.

The second map, Anubis, was decisive. Here, MIBR also couldn't immediately secure the lead—the first half ended with a score of 6-6. However, after switching sides, the Brazilians showed an impressive game on the attack, winning 7 rounds in a row and securing a victory 13-7. The result was 2-0 in the series, and MIBR advanced further.

HEROIC vs Nemiga

On the first map, Dust II, Nemiga confidently started on defense, taking the first 4 rounds and ending the half with a score of 8-4. After switching sides, HEROIC managed to repeat the same result, taking the game into overtime. However, Nemiga proved stronger there, winning the map 16-14. Mirage, HEROIC's choice, was under their full control. They dominated on the attack, starting with a score of 8-1 and winning the first half 8-4. After switching sides, they concluded the map with a confident victory of 13-6.

On the decisive map, Train, Nemiga started stronger again, winning the first half 7-5. After switching sides, they increased the lead, but HEROIC attempted a comeback, taking 5 rounds in a row. However, Nemiga gathered themselves at the crucial moment, took the last two rounds, and closed the map 13-11, along with the match 2-1, leaving HEROIC out of the tournament.

ESL Pro League Season 21 takes place from March 1 to 16 in Stockholm, Sweden. The 24 best teams in the world are competing for a prize pool of $400,000. You can follow the schedule and results of the tournament via the link.