HERO ESPORTS has launched the latest phase of its Asian Champions League CS2 Tournament today in Yancheng, China, as eight teams advance from a grueling multi-city qualifier across 32 Chinese cities. These rising contenders—Change The Game, Exusiai, FiveHandsomeGuys, Gateron, PA BEER, Reverse Sweep Gaming, DK ESPORT, and TEAM XDM—are set to compete for a share of a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted berth in the ACL Grand Finals 2025 scheduled to take place in Shanghai.

The tournament unfolds over three main stages at the Yancheng International Convention & Exhibition Center from April 10 to May 11. Initially, the Open Qualifier (China) Rookie Advanced Stage, running from April 10 to 13, features a double-elimination format with a mix of best-of-one and best-of-three matches. From this opening round, five teams will progress to the Closed Qualifier (Asia), where they join 11 invited squads that include top-ranked teams from the Asian CS2 scene. These 16 teams will compete in a similar double-elimination format from April 17 to 27, with four teams earning spots in the final playoff rounds.

The playoffs, scheduled from May 6 to 11, will pit the four qualifiers against high-profile teams from across the region, including prominent Chinese, Australian, and Mongolian organizations. The best-of-three showdown in these matches will determine the final two teams that advance to Shanghai for the Grand Finals on May 16. The event is designed to blend grassroots talent with seasoned esports powerhouses, promising high-intensity battles and a showcase of emerging skills on a global stage.

In addition to a robust live audience, the tournament is set to reach international fans through broadcasts on popular platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok. Success in the ACL tournament also opens the door to direct entry at the Esports World Cup 2025, an event renowned for its historically record-setting prize pool.