Once again, GAM Esports faced a former opponent, LOUD, who proved to be stronger than Movistar R7 as their Korean players performed exceptionally well. LLL was also somewhat rated higher than GAM in this rematch. Furthermore, GAM’s victory over R7 came with a few minor blemishes. However, many believe that if GAM addresses the excessive “fervor” of some players and plays cautiously, the chances for the VCS representative GAM remain very bright.
But ultimately, on a day when the GAM players performed even better than in their match against R7, LLL simply “shattered the dream.” They could no longer dominate GAM, and mistakes began to surface. In game 1, it was Tinows, while in game 2, it was Robo and Crocs. The two Brazilian players were completely helpless while the Korean jungler could do nothing against GAM’s initiative. The reigning VCS champions continue to secure their place in a crucial match against Team Whales for a spot in the Swiss round, recreating the VCS finals at LoL Park.
Witnessing GAM’s victory, the VCS audience was undoubtedly the happiest. By some miraculous means, no one from VCS was eliminated early, and there will definitely be one position in the group of the 16 strongest teams in the tournament. With the BO1 format of the Swiss round, the chances of VCS continuing to cause surprises are very high. Especially in their matches, TW has shown resilience, while GAM has clearly been more cautious.
But for the international audience, GAM’s achievement carries even greater significance. The strength of VCS has been affirmed in the global League of Legends scene, and both teams have brought noteworthy playstyles. Many Western viewers even joked: “The moment you realize GAM losing the first match is a script to face TW and recreate the VCS finals.”
Of course, this is just the playful banter of fans witnessing GAM’s “tower climb.” But clearly, GAM has put in a lot of effort to keep hopes alive for entering the top 16 of Worlds 2023. Coming up will be the “VCS derby” and the winning team will undoubtedly be the one deserving to represent VCS in the Swiss round.