ESL Pro League Season 20: Top Teams Eyeing the Title

The ESL Pro League is one of the longest-running and most prestigious tournaments in the world of Counter-Strike, and Season 20 has been no exception in delivering high-octane action. Established in 2015, the ESL Pro League has grown into a cornerstone of the professional CS (now CS2) circuit, consistently attracting the top teams from around the globe. The league has earned its reputation by combining a rigorous format, massive prize pools, and an ever-increasing competitive landscape.

Over the years, the ESL Pro League has evolved, adapting to the changing meta and the fluctuating dynamics of team rosters. Initially starting with a modest lineup of teams, it has since expanded to 32 teams battling for supremacy across several weeks of competition. The growth mirrors the rise in popularity of Counter-Strike as an esport, with fans and analysts eagerly following each season’s developments.

With each iteration, the league has introduced new elements, from structural changes to the addition of partner teams and promotion/relegation systems. These modifications have ensured the league stays competitive and rewarding for perennial favorites and emerging talent​.

The format of the ESL Pro League is a defining feature. The tournament kicks off with a group stage, where teams are divided into four groups and placed in a grueling triple-elimination format. The top-performing teams from each group then advance to the playoffs, a single-elimination showdown that determines the champion.

Vitality

With the odds of +275, team Vitality is undoubtedly a favorite for clinching the ESL Pro League title. The team has been in formidable form after a win at IEM Cologne 2024. Anchored by Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, arguably the world’s top player, and a cohesive unit, they have dominated recent tournaments.

Despite occasional rumors of internal changes, the lineup has remained intact, bolstered by their recent success​. Vitality’s explosive playstyle and ZywOo’s incredible consistency make them a tough opponent for any team, and many see them as the team to beat in Season 20.

G2 Esports

The Berlin-based team that has garnered attention is G2 Esports. Popular due to their aggressive play and top roster, G2 is a dark horse in the competition. Although it has shown inconsistency in recent months, G2 possesses the firepower to make deep playoff runs.

The question is whether their star players, such as NiKo and m0NESY, can maintain their form under pressure. G2’s odds currently stand at +400, making them a solid option for those who believe in their ability to click in the playoff. If G2 clicks at the right moment, they have the talent to upset any of the big names​.

Fans looking to back G2 can use the DraftKings promo code to place their bets, adding excitement to the team’s playoff journey. With their unpredictable but high-ceiling performances, G2 remains a solid pick for high-reward wagers.

FaZe Clan

FaZe Clan is always a fan favorite, and for good reason. They have a star-studded roster, including ropz and karrigan, FaZe Clan has a history of pulling off incredible runs when least expected. However, their form has been unpredictable, so their odds sit at +600. Should they find their groove in the playoffs, FaZe has the potential to go all the way​.

Virtus.Pro

Virtus.pro is a tough opponent in long series. Led by Jame, the reigning PGL Stockholm Major MVP, they’ve had a steady 2024 but haven’t quite hit the highest levels yet. With odds of +700, Virtus.pro is the kind of team that can grind out a victory, especially in a tightly contested playoff bracket​

MOUZ

Perhaps one of the most exciting teams to watch is MOUZ. While not necessarily a top favorite, MOUZ has been showing tremendous potential, particularly after winning ESL Pro League Seasons 18 and 19​. With rising stars like siuhy and Jimpphat, MOUZ continues to improve with every tournament. They have developed a reputation for being a team that thrives under pressure, often delivering strong playoff performances.

Although they may lack the star power of teams like Vitality or G2, their strategic play and ability to adapt make them a dangerous opponent for anyone. Their odds of +1000 may seem long, but their proven track record in high-stakes matches makes them a sleeper pick.

Heroic

Heroic is another name worth mentioning. Despite some recent roster changes, Heroic has remained a consistently high-performing team, often appearing in the top four of major tournaments. Their ability to bounce back after tough losses has defined them this season. However, Heroic will need to find a way to recapture their best form if they want to make a deep run.

Summary

As ESL Pro League Season 20 barrels towards its conclusion, predicting the eventual champion is no easy task. Vitality seems to have the edge in terms of form, but several other teams, including G2 Esports, Liquid, and Virtus.pro, are poised to make things interesting. Then there are underdogs like MOUZ and FaZe Clan, teams with the potential to shake up the competition if they find their rhythm. With $170,000 awaiting the winner, there’s plenty at stake. Whoever comes out on top will have earned it, as the margins between victory and defeat at this level are razor-thin.