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MNM Gaming have been confirmed as this year's Japan Invitational 2023 international contestants. The marshmallows' will only feature on Aug. 12 as they have automatically been invited to the Final playoff.
The first edition of the Japan Invitational was celebrated in 2022. Back then, the competition had six Japanese rosters and two international squads in Team BDS and DAMWONG Gaming. Following one victory against Crest Gaming Lst and two victories against the South Korean roster, the Frenchmen won the Japan Invitational 2022.
This year, the Japan Invitational will have nine teams, with MNM Gaming being the only non-Japanese roster in the competition.
The format has also changed, as the eight Japanese rosters have been drawn in a double-elimination bracket. The three-best rosters will join MNM Gaming in the Finals playoff.
It will be the marshmallows' first appearance in Japan, a special one for Leon "neLo" Pesic as he returns to the country where he was crowned Pro League champion — for Natus Vincere against DarkZero Esports.
It's also worth noting that Julio "JULIO" Giacomelli was suposed to take part in the Pro League S10 Finals played in Tokoname, Japan. However, due to visa complications, Ninjas in Pyjamas ended up competing with the Giants Gaming duo of David "p0lo" Gómez and Álvaro "baroz" Valero.