Before the 2023 Worlds Finals takes place, T1 is the team that is highly favored compared to Weibo Gaming (WBG). This is reflected in the Pick’em results from Riot, where 91% of participants believe that T1 will defeat WBG. This is understandable as T1 just overcame a formidable opponent named JD Gaming (JDG) in the Semifinals.
However, the T1 players themselves remain quite cautious ahead of the upcoming finals. Recently, T1’s Jungle player Oner shared with the media that WBG is a strong team with outstanding players. Moreover, Oner acknowledged that WBG being the fourth seed from LPL is what makes T1 concerned.
“We do not have pleasant memories when facing a fourth seed team in the finals like last year. Therefore, the entire team will be very cautious when facing WBG in the upcoming match. I believe that WBG players are all excellent players. I will try my best to perform well and bring victory to my team” – Oner shared.
Indeed, when comparing, WBG this year and DRX 2022 share many similarities. They are both fourth seeds, and the Support position has previously won the world championship, or TheShy and Deft celebrated their birthdays on stage after defeating an LPL team. Additionally, DRX did not appear in the Worlds MV in the year they won. Coincidentally, no WBG player appeared in this year’s “Gods” MV.
Therefore, Oner’s worries are justified as WBG has many similarities with DRX last year. However, this could also be the entire advantage that WBG possesses. For T1, they are currently showcasing a very high performance after defeating JDG, with any player being able to shine. Moreover, most T1 players are demonstrating an extremely large champion pool, giving them a significant advantage in team composition choices.
Having previously faced disappointment against a fourth-seed team, T1 will be cautious and thoroughly study WBG ahead of the Finals. Hopefully, the T1 squad will maintain their high performance in the upcoming Finals and not let the championship slip away for the second consecutive time. If victorious, it will be a happy ending for T1’s tumultuous 2023 season.