Team Falcons PH kicked off their Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid Season Cup (MSC) 2026 campaign with a straight-map victory over China’s Guangzhou Gaming, securing a place in the Group A upper-bracket semifinal at the Esports World Cup.

The series marked the international debut of veteran mid laner Salic «Hadji» Imam with Falcons PH and his first appearance on the global stage since competing with Blacklist International at the M4 World Championship.

Hadji made an immediate impact in the opening series. Playing Lylia in Game 1, he finished with a 2/1/12 KDA before switching to Eudora in Game 2, where he posted a 4/1/7 scoreline as Falcons completed the 2-0 sweep.

The victory sends Team Falcons PH into the Group A upper-bracket semifinal against Team Vitality, while Guangzhou Gaming fall into the elimination side of the bracket. A second win would move Falcons one step closer to securing a playoff berth at MSC 2026.

Speaking after the match, roamer Rovjhin «Owgwen» Unigo said Hadji had blended into the lineup without forcing major tactical changes. Instead, the veteran’s experience and communication have strengthened the team’s overall execution.

For Hadji, the result represented more than just a winning debut. After spending several years away from international competition, the Filipino mid laner said he was happy to once again experience the atmosphere of a global event. He also contrasted the relaxed team culture at Falcons PH with the more serious environment he experienced during his time with Blacklist International.

Team Falcons PH earned their place at MSC 2026 after finishing as runners-up in MPL Philippines Season 17. The tournament, held as part of the Esports World Cup in Paris, features 16 of the world’s top Mobile Legends teams competing for a $1 million prize pool, with the group stage determining the eight playoff qualifiers.