In their opening match at MSI 2023, both teams T1 and MAD Lions were determined to secure a victory. However, the skill gap between the two sides was too significant, even though T1 were only the Spring 2023 runners-up while MAD was the number one seed from the LEC. The match ended extremely quickly but left many topics for League of Legends fans to discuss and buzz about.
Notably, in game 3 of the match, T1 defeated their opponents in just 16 minutes and 50 seconds. This was the second shortest match duration in MSI history. A game ending after just 16 minutes means that the second Rift Herald buff might not even have had time to appear. This showcases T1’s absolute dominance over MAD as well as a summary of Faker and his teammates’ performance throughout this BO5 match.
Interestingly, with the second fastest match record in MSI history, Faker was reminded by the fans of a “sorrowful” moment from the past, also at the MSI stage (specifically in 2019). Faker’s SKT T1 faced off against Invictus Gaming. Unfortunately for Faker, 2019 was during a transition period for SKT T1 while IG was at their peak after winning the World Championship. The match ended swiftly in just 15 minutes and 57 seconds. This remains the fastest win in MSI history.
While many fans may use the loss against IG to tease Faker, it cannot be denied the strong spirit, professionalism, and efforts of T1’s captain. It is worth noting that, aside from Faker, none of the other players from both teams that year are present at MSI this year. Some have retired, some have failed in their journey to London, while others may never regain their peak form.
Meanwhile, Faker continues to tirelessly pursue the championship title at MSI alongside his younger teammates. He has broken many records and will certainly not stop until he feels he can no longer compete professionally.