Yesterday, all open qualifiers for Intel Extreme Masters Sydney 2023 concluded, and it's time to look at the closed qualifier stage in Europe. Now, let's delve into the details of who will play, when, and who should win!

Let's start with the list of participants:

• 9INE (Invited)
• Apeks (Invited)
  
• Ninjas in Pyjamas (Invited)
  
• OG (Invited)
  
• Victory Zigzag (Passed the open qualifier)
  
• BetBoom Team (Passed the open qualifier)
  
• knasigT (Passed the open qualifier)
  
• 1win (Passed the open qualifier)
  

Now, let's talk about the format of the closed qualifier. The qualification will follow the Olympic system with a second chance, meaning there will be a lower bracket.

All matches will be in a bo3 format. The first matches will be on August 23, and the final match between teams will be played on August 25, 2023.

There is no prize pool for the qualifier, but the finalists receive a slot at IEM Sydney 2023!

ALSO READ: M80 and Forsaken earned a slot in the closed qualifiers for IEM Sydney 2023.

In our humble predictions, 9INE and Ninjas in Pyjamas are the top contenders. Both teams made roster changes in the last transfer window but have had enough time to prepare.

However, OG can pose a significant threat, as they've slightly altered their lineup and added firepower.

APEKS, on the other hand, shouldn't be considered a threat since their performance post BLAST.tv Major Paris 2023 has been very poor.

ALSO READ: BIG and MOUZ passed the qualifiers for the Thunderpick World Championship 2023.

Intel Extreme Masters Sydney 2023 will take place from October 16 to October 22, 2023. The championship's prize pool amounts to $250,000. In total, 16 teams will participate in the tournament, and the winner will receive a direct invite to IEM Katowice 2024.