MSL’s Danish CSGO roster South disbands after just weeks

By Kenneth Williams

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Sep 15, 2021

Reading time: 2 min

A promising Danish roster led by MSL has dissolved after just six tournament runs.

Unsponsored Counter-Strike: Global Offensive team South has announced its dissolution just three weeks after forming. The announced lineup included experienced names like Mathias “MSL” Lauridsen, Philip “aizy” Aistrup Larsen, and Jakob “JUGi” Hansen. The team was met with some initial hype but failed to secure invites to several key events. From its first qualifier attempt to its official dissolution, South CSGO lasted just 21 days.

The team was organized by Mathias “MSL” Lauridsen, the esteemed in-game leader behind North CSGO’s success in 2017 and 2018. The squad attempted to qualify for five tournaments before ending the collaboration with a 40th at Malta Vibes Knockout Series #2. South’s abrupt disbandment is a result of that string of poor performances along with the lack of a sponsor.

The Danish region is in a rush for new CSGO talent. Several new teams have launched over the past month, including Ignite Esports and two Spirit of Amiga divisions. Even Astralis picked up sixth man Philip “Lucky” Ewald and could recruit even more players after some contracts expire at the end of the year. The influx of available talent could shake up Denmark’s national CSGO scene.

What is MSL famous for in CSGO?

MSL is most famous for his time calling strategies for North. The Danish in-game leader directed his squad to a $100,000 championship at DreamHack Masters Stockholm 2018. MSL took a break from professional CSGO for most of 2021 but announced his plans to form a roster in August.

While primarily known for his strategic mind, MSL is also a strong player in clutch situations when the pressure is greatest. MSL’s most famous play is a one-man hold against FaZe Clan at StarLadder i-League StarSeries S3. MSL fended off four FaZe players to protect Cache B at a very tight scoreline. By winning in that clutch situation, captain MSL guaranteed North a spot in the playoffs.