GMC Season 5 - UAE
GPL Masters Cup 5 – UAE: A Tournament of Shocks and Triumphs
The curtains have closed on an unforgettable GPL Masters Cup 5 in Dubai, and what a ride it has been. From dominant group stage runs to shocking eliminations, the UAE played host to some of the most dramatic esports action in recent memory.
Olympus Gaming Make History
In front of a roaring home crowd, Olympus Gaming (OG) of MENA etched their name into history, taking down Chinese favorites Top Esports (TOP) 4-1 in the Grand Finals. This marks the first-ever Masters Championship for a MENA squad, and it came on home soil, making the victory even more iconic.
OG Saher, the driving force in the midlane, earned the Grand Finals MVP, delivering calm and clutch performances that defined OG’s historic run.
The Power Regions Show Their Depth
The tournament further solidified the dominance of three key regions:
China (TOP, BLG) once again fielded two heavy contenders, showing incredible depth and tactical prowess.
MENA (OG, SAW) proved their region has arrived at the top, with Olympus’ title and Sahara Warriors’ strong showing.
Philippines (BLCK, TLPH) may not have reached the Finals this time, but their consistency at the international level ensures they remain among the favorites heading into Worlds.
Notably, Blacklist International (BLCK) staged an incredible reverse sweep in the 3rd Place Series, rallying from 0-3 down to defeat Team Liquid PH (TLPH) 4-3, strengthening the El Classico rivalry.
Shock Exits for the Defending Champions
The Masters Cup also delivered its fair share of surprises. Blacklist International PH (Worlds 4 Champions) and Team Liquid PH (Masters 4 Champions) were both eliminated in the Semifinals. For the first time in two seasons, neither would contest a Masters Grand Final, a reminder of how stacked the global competition has become.
All Roads Lead to Riyadh – GPL Worlds Cup 5
With Masters concluded, the stage is set for the GPL Worlds Cup 5 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The stakes are higher than ever, with the best 8 teams now chasing the ultimate prize.
OG enters Worlds with momentum and home-region pride, but BLCK, TLPH, TOP, and BLG will be hungry for redemption. The desert crowns may belong to Olympus now—but in Riyadh, a new global king will rise.