After many days of waiting, the tournament MSI 2023 has officially kicked off. On the opening day of the first international tournament of the League of Legends scene, there were two matchups between PSG Talon (PSG) – DetonatioN FocusMe (DFM) and G2 Esports (G2) – LOUD (LLL). This is considered an easily analyzable bracket as the skill levels of the teams are quite distinct.
While the match between PSG and DFM was an internal battle among Asian teams, the clash between G2 and LLL was between a seasoned MSI team and a relatively new name in the League of Legends scene. PSG showcased superior class, and even though DFM had some notable names, they had to accept a 0-2 defeat. Meanwhile, the more notable match was between G2 and LLL, as the European representative always knows how to surprise the audience.
In this match, perhaps due to the significant skill and experience gap with their opponents, G2 decided to implement some experimental champion picks, such as Nautilus in the Mid Lane or Poppy in the Top Lane. Of course, G2 won, but the pick of Mid Nautilus is a rare matchup. Many, including Doinb himself, were reminded of the image of FunPlus Phoenix from years past. And for those who don’t know, Doinb was one of the players who successfully used Mid Nautilus during his peak performance. Coincidentally, the match where Doinb used Nautilus was against Caps and G2.
Upon witnessing this choice from G2, Doinb couldn’t hide his excitement. He even expressed a desire to become G2’s coach if he ever has to retire: “G2 owners, I know everyone feels the ‘FPX style’ when watching this play. So, please contact me when I am too old to be a player. Let me coach G2.”
Doinb even imagined the scenario where G2 would win MSI 2023, and then Caps would explain that picking Nautilus in the Mid Lane was inspired by Doinb. The former FPX star declared he would support G2 in winning MSI 2023 this time.
Known for his innovative style of play, and Caps himself has used Mid Nautilus several times in solo queue, G2’s willingness to make “strange” champion picks is not surprising. And perhaps, the audience will witness even more unique champion matchups from the European representative in the near future.
