The competitive Dota 2 landscape, ever-shifting and unpredictable, continues its relentless churn. In the latest notable movement, Chinese squad Yakutou Brothers have announced a significant double roster change, welcoming back a familiar face and introducing a seasoned veteran.
The team officially confirmed via their Weibo page that offlaner Nicolas Lim “zeal” Eng Han and support player Wilson “Poloson” Koh have joined their ranks. This reshuffle sees Xiang “BEYOND” Zhenghong and Chan “Oli” Chong Kien departing the active lineup, marking a clear pivot in the team`s strategy following recent tournament campaigns.
A Bid for Stability and Experience
Yakutou Brothers` decision comes at a critical juncture. The team recently found itself on the cusp of glory, narrowly missing a direct qualification spot for The International 2025, succumbing to Xtreme Gaming in a decisive match. Yet, in a twist of fate typical of the esports circuit, they did participate in TI14, stepping in as a replacement for Gaimin Gladiators. These experiences, a blend of near-misses and unexpected opportunities, undoubtedly shaped the strategic thinking behind the current roster adjustments.
Zeal`s Prodigal Return
For zeal, this move is less of an introduction and more of a homecoming. The Malaysian offlaner previously represented Yakutou Brothers from October 2024 to April 2025. After his initial stint, he ventured to MOUZ, a European organization. However, his tenure there proved to be short-lived, as the team faced early exits in the qualifiers for both Riyadh Masters 2025 and The International 2025. One might wonder if zeal simply found the grass greener elsewhere, only to realize his old stomping grounds had a certain… gravitational pull. His return signals a belief in the Yakutou Brothers project and perhaps a desire to finish what he started, bringing with him refreshed competitive insights from his time abroad.
Poloson: A New Chapter After Unforeseen Setbacks
Joining zeal is Singaporean support player Poloson, whose recent competitive narrative is tinged with a unique brand of irony. Poloson was a key figure in Xtreme Gaming’s successful qualification run for TI14. However, unforeseen health issues tragically prevented him from competing in the main event, leaving him on the sidelines as his team battled on the biggest stage. This personal setback undoubtedly fuels a competitive hunger, and his arrival at Yakutou Brothers offers a fresh platform for him to channel that immense experience and drive. His ability to facilitate plays and provide crucial support, proven even with other top-tier teams, will be a valuable asset to the team`s strategic depth.
The Road Ahead for Yakutou Brothers
The addition of zeal and Poloson represents a clear statement of intent from Yakutou Brothers. By bringing in players with both familiarity and recent high-level competitive exposure, the team aims to fortify its core and inject new tactical approaches. The roles they fill — offlaner and support — are often the linchpins of team coordination and early-to-mid-game aggression, suggesting a potential shift in their in-game dynamics.
As the Dota 2 circuit continues its demanding schedule, all eyes will be on this revitalized Yakutou Brothers lineup. Will zeal`s return ignite a new spark? Can Poloson`s seasoned experience, tempered by his recent challenges, translate into consistent success? Only time, and the fierce battlegrounds of professional Dota 2, will tell.
Jasper Hawthorne