T1 entered their next match after a loss to Gen.G, facing off against Dplus KIA – a reputable name at this time. In fact, based on T1’s performance against Gen.G and DK’s rising form, many did not rate Faker and his teammates highly. Moreover, aside from the strategic factor, no one knew if the T1 players could regain their spirits after the harsh defeat against the LCK champions, or if their training conditions had improved. Nevertheless, this was still viewed as a balanced matchup compared to previous encounters between the two teams.
However, when DK needed it most, they looked to the Mid Lane and found Faker. In both games, Faker showed that even though he may not possess the same skills as in his youth, he could still “carry the team” very well. Game 2 was truly Faker’s stage, as the two younger teammates responsible for damage had yet to reach their power threshold. The highlight of the match was his solo kill on ShowMaker in the Bottom Lane, allowing Faker to officially pull ahead in the second game.
However, for some viewers, what mattered more was that T1 had more creative picks and bans, balancing damage and durability, and making the operation much smoother. This was also the match where “resource-hungry” names like Gumayusi received adequate attention. Although there were still some bumps, T1 clearly performed better than in their loss to Gen.G or the somewhat laborious win against Nongshim RedForce last week.
– I can say, this time (hopefully I can say it many more times): the picks and bans are on point.
– Gumayusi not playing Senna and Zeus not playing Twisted Fate. What a relief.
– I like this kind of picks and bans.
– Rarely do we force the opponent to ban “weird” picks and we win.
Faker has shown the qualities of a great player: quickly bouncing back after defeat and shining to lead the team to victory, and the MVP award for the “G.O.A.T” is completely deserved. However, T1 still had some moments of distraction, and their champion operations were not yet entirely smooth. These are also areas that need improvement as they face KT Rolster and Hanwha Life Esports, two teams that may prove just as challenging as Gen.G or DK for T1.