ESL One Raleigh 2025 begins today, and we already got an interesting change for Team Liquid. Due to visa issues, Michał “Nisha” Jankowski will not attend the tournament. Instead of him, Team Liquid will play alongside Jonathan Bryle “Bryle” De Guia, who will step in.
As per a post on team manager William “Blitz” Lee’s Twitter, Nisha was unable to make the event, and NA player Bryle will take his place.
Image Credit: Valve
Bryle To Stand-in For Team Liquid At ESL One Raleigh 2025
Since ESL One Raleigh 2025 takes place in North Carolina, USA, some players have had issues with their visas. Team Falcons are another team that has to use a stand-in, US native Quinn Callahan, after Malr1ne also had visa issues and couldn’t attend the tournament. The reason behind Nisha’s absence wasn’t given.
Considering Nisha’s importance to Team Liquid, the team will definitely feel his absence. Over the last couple of years, Nisha established himself as one of Team Liquid’s leaders and one of the driving forces behind the team’s success. Sadly, the WEU powerhouse will not be able to rely on him for this tournament.
The good news for Team Liquid is that they found a top-tier stand-in in the face of Bryle. The Canadian midder has been in the pro scene since 2017 and has played for all kinds of teams. His last endeavor was with Tundra Esports, but it only lasted for around 2 months.
Bryle and Nisha are very similar in terms of their playstyle and preferred heroes. Both like using some of the more farm-focused mid-laners, such as Queen of Pain, Storm Spirit, and more. The good news for Bryle is that the current Dota 2 patch 7.38c favors these kinds of heroes, so we expect to see him succeed.
What’s Next for Team Liquid?
Team Liquid is in Group A at ESL One Raleigh 2025 and will have to go up against the following teams:
- PARIVISION
- Nigma Galaxy
- Shopify Rebellion
- Talon Esports
- Team Spirit
There is no arguing that Team Liquid is one of the big favorites in this Group. Despite the absence of Nisha, the squad will do everything possible to secure the first 4 spots in the group.
Speaking of the event, ESL One Raleigh 2025 will offer us a lot of action because it brings together some of the best in the world. This also means that there will be plenty of Dota 2 betting opportunities, so make sure to check that if you are interested.