Team Falcons` midlaner, Stanislav “Malr1ne” Potorak, is facing a critical best-of-3 elimination match against fellow Eastern European powerhouse Virtus.pro at Riyadh Masters 2025. The stakes couldn`t be higher – the loser is out of the tournament. Ahead of this crucial clash, Malr1ne revealed a rather… distinctive pre-match preparation.
Forsaking traditional warm-ups for something more… personal, Malr1ne adorned his cheek and neck with drawings of unicorns. This isn`t a random artistic impulse; according to the player himself, it`s a deliberate ritual tied to past success.
Sharing his thoughts (presumably via a private message format), Malr1ne stated, “How do you like my rebranding? I`ve honestly never lost when using stickers. This time it`s a unicorn, not Hello Kitty, but the fact remains the same.”
This pivotal match against Virtus.pro is scheduled for July 12th. Riyadh Masters 2025 itself is a major Dota 2 event, part of the larger Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia, featuring a $3 million prize pool among 16 top teams. For both Falcons and VP, this Best-of-3 isn`t just about prize money or points; it`s about survival in one of the year`s most significant tournaments.
While professional esports often emphasizes rigorous practice and strategic execution, player superstitions are not uncommon. Malr1ne`s reliance on his `lucky stickers` – an evolving ritual previously involving Hello Kitty – offers a glimpse into the psychological aspects players might employ, perhaps seeking a perceived edge or simply a source of comfort under immense pressure. Whether the mystical power of the unicorn will statistically correlate with victory against a tough opponent like Virtus.pro remains to be seen.
As the clock ticks down to this elimination showdown, all eyes will undoubtedly be on the in-game action. But a few might also spare a glance at Malr1ne, wondering if the unicorn enchantment holds the key to advancing at Riyadh Masters.
