In the match between LOUD and GAM Esports, the disadvantages of the VCS representative were clearly evident, even when the VCS team was the one taking the initiative. Notably, this was the second consecutive loss for GAM against wildcard teams, specifically in international matches. This indicates a certain regression of the VCS representatives compared to their past performances and against teams from regions that are considered equal or even weaker.
Notably, it was the bot lane of VCS that was regarded as the strongest duo in Vietnamese League of Legends at present. One is an AD Carry who has long established his reputation and contributed significantly to SBTC Esports’ runner-up finish and GAM’s championship in 2023. The other, is even a familiar name in international competitions as he has participated in this arena for a long time. However, on a day when GAM’s top lane could be said to perform from adequately to well, the bot lane turned out to be the weakest link of the team.
Riot itself has frequently “zoomed in” on the mini map on the screen to showcase the vision disparity between GAM and LLL. For instance, while LLL demonstrated they had full coverage of the area around the Dragon pit, GAM had an astonishingly sparse number of wards. Moreover, in both games, Palette made numerous inaccuracies with his abilities (both in terms of target and timing). Notably, both Nautilus and Rell in Palette’s hands are extremely crucial champions for laning as well as during team fights.
As for Slayder, it can only be said that he had an extremely underwhelming match. The GAM AD Carry in game 1 hardly had any impactful Storm’s Fury plays. Meanwhile, in game 2, Slayder’s Kai’Sa simply had little to no effect towards the end of the match. Slayder’s item build with Kai’Sa (Kraken Slayer, Nashor’s Tooth, Divine Sunderer) was completely outmatched by Route’s Xayah. Additionally, K’Sante from Robo only needed some magic resistance items for Slayder to become nearly ineffective.
Not only Riot or international audiences, but even VCS fans have recognized that the bot lane was indeed GAM’s weak point in the match against LLL. Of course, both still have one more chance to correct their mistakes before facing R7. However, not many people are placing their faith anymore, especially when R7 can also be considered just as strong, if not stronger than LLL.