The inaugural edition of DreamLeague Division 2 concluded this past weekend (Oct. 26), as Russian org Team Yandex took home the win at DL Division 2 Season 1.
The brand-new Tier 2 tournament was widely heralded as a refreshing new addition to the Dota 2 ecosystem, amid a current event climate that places much more importance on the Tier 1 scene. Beyond just a trophy and prize, the four top finishers, Yandex, 1w Team, Pipsqueak+4 and Passion UA, have qualified to DreamLeague 27, as part of a 24-team event.
After two weeks of harsh competition, featuring the likes of OG and NAVI Junior, Yandex come out on top, with an undefeated streak in the playoffs. After dropping just a single game in the entire event, they fittingly came up against the only other undefeated team in the tournament in 1w Team in the finals.
The roster’s strength was clear from the outset. Led by Alimzhan “watson” Islambekov and Arman “Malady” Orazbayev, both formerly of Gaimin Gladiators, Team Yandex combined experienced leadership with the raw talent of younger, hungry players. Their synergy and mechanical precision set them apart from the rest of the field, marking them as one of the most promising Tier 2 teams heading into the 2025/2026 season.
Watson and Malady joined Yandex earlier this month. Image credit: Team Yandex
With their win, Yandex takes home $15,000, a respectable prize pool for Tier 2. 1w Team, Pipsqueak+4, and Passion UA claim $10,000, $8,000, and $7,000 respectively.
Beyond the competition itself, though, DreamLeague Division 2 has been hailed as a revitalizing force for the Tier 2 scene. With solid production, community engagement, and meaningful prize pools, the event offered work to players, casters, and fans eager to see more structured opportunities below the top tier.
Yandex and the other four finalists head to DreamLeague 27, which runs between Dec. 10 and Dec. 21 this year.
Featured Image Credit: ESL
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