As we know, the recent loss in the second round of the group stage LCK Spring 2024 marked the seventh consecutive time T1 has failed to secure a victory against their “arch-rival” Gen.G. In this instance, T1 even seemed much weaker, as they could not secure a single kill in their first game. If we look at the highlights or statistics, even those who watched the match would feel a common point: T1’s helplessness.
However, in the upcoming LCK Spring 2024 playoffs, as the two teams are in different brackets, the possibility of T1 clashing with Gen.G again is entirely possible. After their victory over Dplus KIA, Coach KkOma expressed full confidence that T1 could defeat Gen.G if they were to meet again. At first glance, this statement from the most successful coach in LCK seems like mere morale-boosting. But in reality, this is entirely possible.
T1 players have come back down to earth
The undefeated streak and a series of “unusual” picks have filled T1 players with confidence. However, it cannot be denied that this confidence can lead to overly free-spirited emotions and gameplay. Consequently, when T1 realized they had to face a much stronger Gen.G, they became flustered. They understood that Gen.G was not like any of the opponents they had beaten during their previous 12-match “unstoppable” streak. This led to ineffective bans and picks, with T1 players struggling in a match where they were initially rated as equals.
Maintaining a focused mindset and possibly even adopting an “underdog mentality” to better understand themselves and their opponents is essential for T1 players. Faker may lead the younger players, but if T1’s young stars can keep a “cool head,” that may be when they truly become powerful and undefeated.
T1 is strongest when underestimated
At MSI 2023, and more clearly at the recent Worlds 2023, T1 was one of the lowest-rated teams among championship contenders. In fact, many fans believed that LNG Esports would end T1’s journey right in their homeland of South Korea. Not to mention, Gen.G and JD Gaming from last year were always aiming for the championship, and many expected this matchup to appear in the finals. Furthermore, T1 defeated Gen.G at MSI 2023 when they were under scrutiny regarding both performance and skill.
Of course, T1 will still be one of the two contenders for the championship. But they will be rated weaker than Gen.G. Additionally, in the playoffs, there will also be Dplus KIA, Hanwha Life Esports, and KT Rolster. Therefore, when being underestimated, T1 could be more relaxed regarding pressure and create miracles, just like at Worlds 2023.
Flaws have been revealed
It can be said that amidst the flourishing undefeated streak, the loss to Gen.G was like a “cold shower,” but it was necessary. Because T1 will now know where their flaws lie. Whether it’s the players’ mentality, individual skills, or aspects like bans, picks, and team operation… The time is just right for them to reflect and improve before the playoffs begin. At the same time, it also allows the players to recover their spirits after a humiliating defeat.
Of course, there are teams that can remain undefeated from start to finish, like T1 in Spring 2022. But it was also T1 that showed how terrifying they could become after a setback. And perhaps the loss in the second round of the group stage against Gen.G was a necessary fall for T1 to improve flaws that other opponents were not strong enough to expose.