Team Liquid has announced two new players to its Dota 2 active roster, Marcus ‘Ace‘ Hoelgaard and Erik ‘tOfu‘ Engel.
A three-minute trailer was posted online, sharing highlight plays from both players, who were previously members of Gaimin Gladiators.
“It’s somewhat intimidating for me, because I’ve been with some of my other players for four years now, especially tOfu,” Ace shared in an article by Team Liquid.
“So joining a new team and a new system definitely makes me feel like I’m a bit nervous. Not so much, just a healthy amount. But it’s very interesting and very cool to try something new like this.”
Both players have seen various levels of success in the Dota 2 scene prior to joining Team Liquid. While part of Gaimin Gladiators, both players won Riyadh Masters 2024 after defeating Team Liquid 3-0 in the Grand Finals. In 2025 alone, the duo came second in both PGL Wallachia Season 5 and FISSURE Universe Episode 4.
“I think I’ve played against Team Liquid more than any other esports team, both in pubs and tournaments,” tOfu added in an interview with Team Liquid.
“And because we clashed so many times, it became like having a rivalry with your best friends. Generally, with Team Liquid, I always had the best connections. With their players and their coach. I have always liked them and have always had a great deal of respect for them.”
Fans can anticipate seeing the two new players in action in upcoming Dota 2 tier one events such as Blast Slam IV, which runs from October 14th to November 9th, 2025.
Team Liquid Parts From Dota 2 Coach
News of their arrival came shortly after Team Liquid announced that one of its Dota 2 coaches, Damien ‘kpii‘ Chok, had parted from the organisation.
The coach previously contributed to the team’s success in The Internationals 2024, alongside other events such as PGL Wallachia Season 3 and 4.
“kpii’s role in our TI 2024 run can’t be overstated,” Team Liquid shared.
“He was a huge part of that success, and his impact was evident through the seasons he spent with us. His calm presence became an integral part of the tight-knit environment that pulled our team together and made our coaching staff so special.”
