Top Esports Teams in 2025 – Rankings, Players & Betting Insight
Keen to find the best esports teams and players? You've come to the right place. We've scouted the top competitive gaming rosters, so you don't have to. Whether you're after the best odds or just want to follow the hottest esports action, this guide is your tactical advantage.
These teams aren't just crowd favourites; they're consistent performers with a proven track record in major tournaments and serious prize money behind them. Level up your esports experience right here. Get ready to dive into the exciting world of esports betting!
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Why Focus on Top Teams and Players in NZ Esports Betting?
Esports betting in New Zealand rewards knowledge. Unlike traditional sports, competitive games are shaped by rapid patch updates, shifting metas, and player transfers. A team that dominates today could be obsolete next month—unless they adapt.
That’s why the best teams in the world aren’t just talented. They’re:
- Consistent under pressure
- Flexible across patches and maps
- Composed of players with deep synergy and tournament composure
Tracking top-performing rosters and high-earning players gives you real insight into who’s worth backing when the stakes are highest for Kiwis.
Top Esports Teams for New Zealand Bettors to Watch in 2025
Esports isn’t just about raw skill—it’s about adaptability, mental resilience, and strategic innovation. The teams below have proven themselves not just through tournament wins, but by consistently reinventing themselves across seasons, metas, and game titles. For bettors and fans alike in New Zealand, these are the squads to watch in 2025.
Team Liquid
A global giant with rosters across CS2, Dota 2, Valorant, Apex Legends, and more. With decades of competitive pedigree, Team Liquid remains one of the most stable and respected organisations in the industry. Their presence in both Western and Eastern circuits gives them unmatched strategic depth.
OG
OG burst onto the scene in 2015 and stunned the world by winning The International twice in a row. Known for bold drafts and momentum-heavy play, they’re a Dota 2 icon and a growing threat in CS2 and Valorant tournaments.
Evil Geniuses
A legacy North American organization with presence in LoL, COD, Rocket League, and CS2. EG’s versatility across genres makes them a top-tier pick for bettors who value consistency over flash. Their players have collected some of the largest prize pools in esports history.
Team Spirit
This Russian powerhouse won The International 2021 and remains a serious contender across Dota 2, CS2, and League of Legends. Known for their late-tournament resilience, they’re a favorite for comeback scenarios and deep playoff runs.
Leading Teams by Esports Title
- Counter-Strike 2 (CS2): FaZe Clan, G2 Esports, Team Vitality, Natus Vincere (NaVi)
- Dota 2: OG, Team Liquid, Team Secret, Virtus.pro
- League of Legends: T1, G2 Esports, JD Gaming, Gen.G
- Valorant: LOUD, Paper Rex, Sentinels, Fnatic
- Call of Duty (Warzone): OpTic Gaming, Atlanta FaZe, CompLexity, Evil Geniuses
- Apex Legends: Team Liquid, Fnatic, Natus Vincere, Virtus.pro
- FIFA (EA FC): Fnatic, Manchester City Esports, Schalke 04 Esports, MKers
These teams aren’t just at the top of their leaderboards—they’re defining how their respective games are played. Each has demonstrated excellence in LAN events, map mastery, and strategic play under pressure.
The Best Esports Players in the World (by Earnings)
When it comes to player performance, Dota 2 is at the forefront. The following names are not only the highest earners in esports—they're living legends who have shaped the history of competitive gaming.
| Player | Country | Game | Team | Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johan "N0tail" Sundstein | Denmark | Dota 2 | OG | $7.18M |
| Jesse "JerAx" Vainikka | Finland | Dota 2 | OG | $6.47M |
| Anathan "ana" Pham | Australia | Dota 2 | OG | $6.00M+ |
| Sébastien "Ceb" Debs | France | Dota 2 | OG | $5.77M |
| Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok | South Korea | LoL | T1 | $1.70M+ |
These players have defined what it means to win on the biggest stages. When they play, the odds shift—so do the outcomes.
How to Identify Bet-Worthy Teams and Players
Betting smart starts with studying the right signals. Use these key indicators to assess whether a team or player is worth backing:
- Recent tournament performance – Don’t rely solely on past trophies. Look at their last 5–10 matches.
- Roster stability – Frequent substitutions or role swaps often disrupt team synergy.
- Patch performance – A team that thrived before the update may falter after major balance changes.
- Map or game mode specialization – Some teams dominate specific maps or roles. Exploit this knowledge in prop bets or live odds.
Pro tip: The public often bets on big names. The savvy bettor looks for underpriced teams that are peaking at the right time.
Final Thoughts
The line between esports excellence and betting opportunity is thinner than ever. The teams and players listed here aren’t just favorites—they’re frameworks for how competitive gaming is evolving.
Track their movements. Follow their brackets. Start here and bet smart.
Because in esports, you’re not just betting on outcomes—you’re betting on patterns, preparation, and pressure.
FAQ
Who are the top esports teams to watch in 2025?
In 2025, Team Vitality remains a strong contender in esports, especially in CS2 and Valorant. Their consistent performance and strategic gameplay make them a top pick. Other leading teams like Team Liquid, JD Gaming, and T1 also dominate in their respective games, so the best team often depends on the specific title. For New Zealand esports fans, these teams offer exciting matches and betting opportunities.
Do esports teams compete in multiple games?
Many prominent esports organizations participate in several games. Teams such as Fnatic, Team Liquid, and Natus Vincere have divisions in CS2, Dota 2, Valorant, and more. While some teams specialize in one game, multi-game organizations provide broader exposure and often apply similar strategies across different formats.
Is it legal to bet on esports in New Zealand?
Esports betting is legal in New Zealand through licensed operators. Major sportsbooks offer odds on popular games like CS2, League of Legends, and Dota 2. It's crucial to check local regulations and only use platforms that are properly licensed and adhere to responsible gambling standards. Always bet responsibly and within your means.
Who is the highest-earning esports player of all time?
Johan "N0tail" Sundstein holds the record for the highest esports earnings, with over $7 million from Dota 2 tournaments. His success with team OG, especially their consecutive wins at The International, established a high mark in esports prize money history.
What does "house edge" mean in esports betting?
The house edge is the built-in advantage that bookmakers have to ensure long-term profitability. In esports betting, this usually means the odds are slightly lower than the actual probability of an event occurring. Understanding the house edge helps New Zealand bettors make more informed wagers by identifying opportunities with fair value. Remember to gamble responsibly.
