MPL S18 Week 1-2: Aurora PH meets ONIC PH as regions seek rebound after MSC 2026

GG Brief Editorial Desk · AI-assisted, source attributed

MPL Season 18 opens with Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia teams aiming to rebound after disappointing MSC 2026 results. Week 1 features Aurora PH vs ONIC PH: Aurora re-signed veteran EXP laner Nathanael “Nathzz” Estrologo and reunites him with Light, while ONIC PH kept Savero as Kelra’s replacement and named Angelo “Pheww” Arcangel head coach. Early matches will test rebuilt rosters, new coaches and rising stars and are expected to set the tone for the rest of the season.

• MPL Season 18 begins with franchise regions (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia) focused on redemption following poor showings at MSC 2026.
• Aurora PH opens the season against ONIC PH and has brought back veteran EXP laner Nathanael “Nathzz” Estrologo, who reunites with Light; the pair previously won MSC 2022 under RSG PH.
• ONIC PH retained Savero from ONIC ID as Kelra’s replacement and promoted Angelo “Pheww” Arcangel to head coach; the team entered the season showing strong scrim form.
• Opening-week results will evaluate rebuilt rosters, new coaching staffs, and established champions attempting to reclaim dominance, setting the early narrative for MPL S18.