AL’s Coach Praises T1 Without Reservation
In just a few hours, the grand clash between T1 and AL will officially take place, marking the first match of the EWC 2025 semifinals. Notably, this is the second meeting between the two teams in less than a month, following MSI 2025, where T1 narrowly defeated the LPL representative. However, given their performance at EWC 2025, especially against HLE, many T1 fans are feeling anxious. Nevertheless, Coach Tabe of AL holds T1 in high regard.
Accordingly, the MSI runner-up coach stated: “I have always admired Faker, and he is my idol. I also tell my players, ‘Faker is still playing, and you all need to strive like him.’ Faker serves as a mirror for the entire Esports community. Therefore, I am always excited to face T1. But even if we are ahead, I remind my players not to be complacent. ‘Remember, T1’s final game is when the match begins.’
For those who may not know, Coach Tabe has faced Faker both as a player and as a coach. Notably, he was part of the BLG team that defeated T1 at MSI 2023 before succumbing to the overpowering JDG that year. Later, at the World Championship, Tabe’s BGL team met T1 once again and faced Faker’s revenge.
T1 – AL: A Highly Anticipated Match
At MSI 2025, the strategic intent of both teams was clear, with bans and picks often targeting the opponent’s champion pool rather than their own strengths. However, EWC will only follow a BO3 format, requiring both T1 and AL to exert full force right from the start. Therefore, the element of “hiding strategies” may no longer be effective, making the matches even more exciting.
Another reason for anticipation is that at this point, it can be argued that T1 and AL are two of the top three teams in professional League of Legends. The players cannot afford to let their guard down if they don’t want to face dire consequences in the end.