The group stage of the DreamLeague Season 26 is kicking off. The schedule features matches with unexpected biases, new rosters, and unstable favorites. We've selected five bets with a favorable combination of form, statistics, and odds.

Aurora will defeat OG.LATAM (odds 1.65)
Aurora have been performing consistently lately and confidently executing drafts focused on tempo aggression. OG.LATAM are struggling with discipline in the mid-game and lose their advantage after the laning phase. A win for Aurora is a bet on stability and macro.

Team Liquid and BetBoom Team will draw (odds 1.95)
Both teams enter the season as favorites but often drop maps at the start of tournaments. Liquid can open the series confidently, but BetBoom are known for adapting as the match progresses. A draw is a bet on the high level of both sides.

Xtreme Gaming will outplay BOOM Esports (odds 2.15)
Despite lower odds, Xtreme Gaming are a team with a strong position in the region and good international experience. BOOM Esports often falter under pressure. A win for Xtreme is a bet on control and draft depth.

AVULUS and Talon Esports will draw (odds 2.00)
Talon do not always perform consistently in the first maps, while AVULUS showed decent form in the qualifiers. An exchange of maps seems the most likely scenario. A draw is a bet on the format and execution parity.

NAVI Junior will defeat Yakult's Brothers (odds 3.80)
NAVI Junior are showing confident play with potential for an upset. Yakult’s Brothers have yet to display stable team dynamics and often fall short in macro play. A win for NaVi.Jr is a bet on ambition and synergy.

At the start of the season, it's more important to focus on actual form rather than brands and past achievements. This is where the value for bets lies: where the market hasn't yet reacted to the current meta and rosters.

Odds are provided by Stake and are current at the time of publication.