Andrea Dato and Halil Tasyurek Aim for Back-to-Back Glory in PokerStars EPT Cyprus Main Event
The PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) has long been a pinnacle event in the world of competitive poker, and this year’s EPT Cyprus Main Event has captured the attention of enthusiasts and players alike. As Day 5 approaches, two players stand on the precipice of poker history: Andrea Dato and Halil Tasyurek. With the tournament set to commence at noon local time, both players are vying to etch their names further into the EPT record books by achieving the remarkable feat of consecutive final table appearances in the same event.
A Historic Opportunity
In the 20 years since the EPT was established, countless players have graced the final tables of these premier tournaments. However, only eight have achieved back-to-back final table placements in the same event. Among this exclusive group, Vladislav Naumov (2020-21, EPT Sochi) and Peter Jorgne (EPT Paris, 2023-24) stand as recent examples. Now, Dato and Tasyurek are poised to join their ranks, further highlighting the competitive spirit and unpredictability that the EPT embodies.
Current Standings
As the tournament progresses toward its climax, the chip counts reveal a fierce contest. Andrea Dato, who finished as the runner-up in the inaugural EPT Cyprus Main Event, enters Day 5 in a solid sixth chip position with 2,575,000 chips. In contrast, Halil Tasyurek, fourth in last year’s event, faces a more challenging road ahead with 1,230,000 chips, putting him among the short stacks.
Day 5 Chip Counts
| Rank | Player | Country | Chip Count | Big Blinds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgios Tsouloftas | Cyprus | 7,970,000 | 159 |
| 2 | Oliver Weis | Germany | 4,540,000 | 91 |
| 3 | Andriy Lyubovetskiy | Ukraine | 3,970,000 | 79 |
| 4 | Damir Zhugralin | Kazakhstan | 3,160,000 | 63 |
| 5 | Mikhail Shalamov | Russia | 2,600,000 | 52 |
| 6 | Andrea Dato | Italy | 2,575,000 | 52 |
| 7 | Eleftherios Sinnos | Cyprus | 2,295,000 | 46 |
| 8 | Marta Miquel Munoz | Spain | 2,235,000 | 45 |
| 9 | Philip Joyce | UK | 1,650,000 | 33 |
| 10 | Anton Wigg | Sweden | 1,550,000 | 31 |
| 11 | Anton Kraous | Bulgaria | 1,320,000 | 26 |
| 12 | Halil Tasyurek | Turkey | 1,230,000 | 25 |
| 13 | Bobby James | UK | 1,215,000 | 24 |
| 14 | Arian Kashani | UK | 1,185,000 | 24 |
| 15 | Timo Kamphues | Germany | 805,000 | 16 |
| 16 | Boris Tabiyev | Kazakhstan | 250,000 | 5 |
The Competitors to Watch
While Dato and Tasyurek are the focal points of this narrative, they are certainly not alone in the quest for glory. The chip leader entering Day 5 is Georgios Tsouloftas, who exhibited an outstanding performance in the late stages of yesterday’s play, accumulating a dominating lead of 7,970,000 chips. Following closely is Oliver Weis, known for his impressive win at the EPT High Roller in Paris, with 4,540,000 chips.
Andriy Lyubovetskiy (3,970,000), Damir Zhugralin (3,160,000), and Mikhail Shalamov (2,600,000) round out the top five, each bringing a unique blend of style and strategy to the table. Notably, Anton Wigg, a former champion of the EPT Copenhagen, is looking to capture his second title.
Also in the mix is Marta Miquel Munoz, aiming to break the decade-long absence of female champions on the EPT since the legendary Victoria Coren Mitchell clinched her title in San Remo in 2014.
The Stakes Ahead
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the remaining 16 players have already guaranteed themselves $42,280, but the real prize lies ahead. A seat at the final table is worth $123,400, while the victor will walk away with a staggering $1,030,000 and the coveted golden EPT trophy.
The action will unfold under the spotlight at the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, with plans to play down to the final six players today. The entire Day 5 proceedings will be broadcasted live across PokerStars’ YouTube and Twitch channels, providing fans an opportunity to witness every thrilling moment.
As players navigate gameplay with just 52 minutes left in Level 26, the tension rises. The blinds are set at 25,000-50,000 with a 50,000 big blind ante, making every decision crucial.
Conclusion
The EPT Cyprus Main Event is not just a tournament; it is a stage where dreams can be realized or dashed in moments. As Andrea Dato and Halil Tasyurek step onto that stage, they carry the hopes of back-to-back achievement, surrounded by a competitive field eager to claim their own piece of history. PokerNews will continue to provide live updates as the drama unfolds, chronicling the journey of these dedicated players in their pursuit of poker immortality. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating finish!
