HLE Regrets Exiting EWC 2025 After Just One BO3 Match
Entering EWC 2025 with a spot earned through T1’s championship last year, HLE was still met with high expectations as they boasted a strong roster and ample rest, while most of their opponents had just come off a grueling MSI. In fact, HLE even had two “warm-up” matches in the group stage to prepare for their crucial quarterfinal match against AG.AL. However, after just one BO3 match, HLE exited the tournament in disgrace after losing to AG.AL, a representative from the LPL.
In light of this situation, even HLE fans found it hard to defend their beloved team. Across various forums, disappointment and frustration from fans of the reigning First Stand 2025 champions poured in. Most comments expressed confusion at how HLE, with more preparation time, greater rest, and warm-ups against opponents, could suffer such a dismal defeat. In fact, if it weren’t for some superstar moments from Zeus, Viper, or Hope’s self-play in Game 2, HLE might have struggled to push the match to Game 3.
On the dedicated HUPU site, all HLE members received low scores from the LPL community. Only Zeus, with his shining performance in Game 2, and Viper, who put in efforts across all three games, scored above 5. Among them, Zeka received the lowest score as he was virtually invisible throughout all three games.
HLE Returns to LCK with Numerous Issues
Naturally, EWC 2025 may not be the definitive stage to assess the strength of all teams, but it serves as a psychological foundation before teams head into the remaining stages of the season. HLE will still be a championship contender, but their issues have become apparent. In fact, compared to T1 and Gen.G, HLE might even be weaker.
HLE must immediately improve the performance of their players. They will still be a very strong team in the LCK due to the quality of their roster, but stepping onto the international stage presents a different challenge that even seasoned teams like Gen.G and T1 have faced due to overconfidence.