As known, after the Quarterfinals draw results for Worlds 2023 were determined by BeryL, T1 will face LNG Esports. This matchup has a lot of history, as many current members of LNG have faced T1 numerous times in the past. Notably, Scout is a former star of the original SKT T1. This time, he will have the opportunity to face off against the opponent he has always admired: Faker.
For T1, LNG will be another tough opponent at Worlds 2023, following Gen.G and Bilibili Gaming. Unlike previous years, at Worlds 2023, T1 is rated lower than both LNG and the two strong championship contenders, Gen.G and JD Gaming. However, after a somewhat slow start, T1 has been getting better and recently defeated BLG, a team that had previously beaten T1 at MSI 2023.
But there’s a truth that T1 fans understand: there will be significant roster changes after Worlds 2023, regardless of the outcome. This has been mentioned by Gumayusi and Oner in previous interviews. It’s understandable since, aside from Oner and Faker, the other three players—Zeus, Gumayusi, and Keria—will all have their contracts expire at the end of this season, specifically in November 2023. Therefore, many fans have begun posting comments like, “Now any match for T1 could be seen as the last time this lineup plays together.”
However, according to some other fans, posting such comments at this point is truly not very reasonable. Because there is still a scenario where T1 extends contracts with these players. After all, T1’s stars are among the best in their respective positions. Even Oner, on a good day, can overshadow the outstanding Kanavi, just like he did back at Worlds 2022. Therefore, T1 will need to carefully consider who to keep, who to let go, and who to bring in to replace the departing players.
Of course, ultimately, that’s all about the future. And at this moment, perhaps T1 fans should focus on their team’s upcoming matches. Especially since if they get past LNG, another tough opponent (likely JDG) is waiting ahead.