In the high-stakes world of professional Dota 2, securing a spot in The International playoffs is a dream shared by countless players. For Vitaly “Save-” Melnik, the accomplished support player for BetBoom Team, that dream recently materialized with a dramatic flair, marked by a hard-fought victory over perennial rivals PARIVISION.
A Dream, A Debut, A Deja Vu
Following their decisive 2-1 win, which punched their ticket to the main stage of The International 2025, Save- articulated a palpable sense of relief and exhilaration. “Playing in the main stage of TI every year is my dream,” he stated, his words echoing the sentiment of every aspiring esports athlete. But this year’s qualification carried an additional, deeply personal resonance.
The upcoming playoff matches are set to unfold in an arena that holds a special place in Save-`s career — the very venue where he made his LAN debut back in 2019, an experience he shared with his teammate gpK~. This cyclical return to a place of firsts adds a layer of poetic significance, turning a professional milestone into a nostalgic journey back to where it all began.
The Grudge Match: BetBoom vs. PARIVISION
While the allure of The International playoffs is undeniable, BetBoom Team`s celebration was amplified by the identity of their defeated opponent: PARIVISION. Save- candidly admitted that this wasn`t merely another group stage match; it was a “personal enemy” vanquished. Since December 2024, BetBoom Team had found themselves consistently on the losing side against their CIS region counterparts.
“First, of course, [we were so happy to win] because we made it to the TI playoffs. Second, we beat PARIVISION — our personal enemy from the CIS region,” Save- explained. “We had been losing to them almost all of last year, and finally winning felt like a huge relief.”
The intensity of the rivalry was perhaps best illustrated by a teammate`s visceral reaction: “My teammate even destroyed his keyboard,” Save- recounted with a hint of amusement, “when the enemy`s Ancient fell, he just smashed it.” A small price, perhaps, for such a cathartic victory and the sweet taste of revenge.
The CIS Crucible: Forging Champions Through Competition
Beyond the personal triumphs and rivalries, Save- offered insightful commentary on the unique competitive landscape of the CIS Dota 2 scene. When questioned about the region`s high level of competition and whether intense rivalry helps or hinders performance, Save- acknowledged the double-edged sword of emotion.
“When emotions get involved in the game, everyone starts to make mistakes,” he conceded. Yet, he quickly followed up with a crucial observation: “There are many strong teams in the CIS region — this is what makes everyone in the region better: you have to play exceptionally well to win here. I like that.”
It`s a brutal proving ground, where constant pressure from formidable peers forces teams to constantly innovate, adapt, and push their limits. This internal competition, Save- suggests, is a key ingredient in elevating the region`s top teams onto the global stage, hardening them for the ultimate challenge.
The Unlikeliest of Comebacks: A Testament to Resolve
The decisive game three against PARIVISION was a masterclass in resilience, a match that will surely be etched into BetBoom Team`s history. Facing a staggering 29,000 gold deficit, a situation from which most teams would crumble, BetBoom Team staged an improbable comeback. This display of mental fortitude and strategic brilliance not only secured their playoff berth but also demonstrated their capacity to perform under immense pressure.
As The International 2025 playoffs loom, BetBoom Team, fueled by a mixture of personal ambition, regional pride, and the sheer joy of competition, stands ready. Their journey through the group stage was a microcosm of their strengths: passion, perseverance, and a willingness to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. For Save- and his teammates, the dream continues, now with the added momentum of a personal vendetta settled and a dramatic comeback under their belt.
