Recently, T1 suffered another defeat against Gen.G, and once again, this team had to accept the runner-up position. In their face-offs against Gen.G in LCK finals, T1 has lost 3 out of the last 4 matches. It can be said that Gen.G is not only T1’s “nemesis” but currently seems to be superior to T1 in many aspects, especially regarding personnel.
In the recent encounter, Gen.G deployed various strategies. While the opponents played methodically and relaxed, the T1 players struggled immensely. Admittedly, they were not highly regarded, and the defeat was a predictable outcome, but T1’s collapse happened so quickly that it surprised many. Even commentator LS remarked that, except for Faker, everyone in T1 had suffered a significant mental decline after their third consecutive loss to Gen.G.
In his post-match statement, Oner admitted that Gen.G is indeed too strong and far exceeded the expectations of the T1 players. However, the T1 jungler asserted that the whole team would regain their spirits soon to aim for the World Championship (Worlds) 2023. Notably, Oner emphasized that he would seek revenge against Gen.G if the two teams had the opportunity to face each other in the upcoming Worlds. It should be noted that in the most recent international tournament, MSI 2023, T1 also defeated Gen.G, contributing to the reigning LCK champions returning home early.
However, according to many viewers, to achieve this, Oner himself must first improve his gameplay. Many have pointed out that he is one of the most risky links in T1. For instance, in the match against KT Rolster, Oner repeatedly lost major objectives that T1 actively approached. And in the finals match, he was unable to overcome his senior Peanut.
Certainly, T1 has many aspects to improve and must do so as soon as possible. They are professional players accustomed to criticism and pressure. But undoubtedly, no fan wants this T1 lineup to end their cycle with nothing but regrets and just one domestic title.