The player most often mentioned after T1’s defeat was actually ‘wronged’?
All eyes on February 13 (Vietnam time) were focused on the marquee match between T1 and Hanwha Life Esports. Not only was it a clash between the two teams that are the reigning champions of the LCK and Worlds, but it was also a match filled with ‘grudges’ following the Zeus – T1 transfer drama. In a dramatic day of competition, T1 suffered a heartbreaking defeat with a score of 3-2.
Among the five members, Oner unexpectedly became the “scapegoat” as he was frequently mentioned across many forums in the League of Legends community. The reason is that in the decisive game, Skarner, who had previously instilled fear in T1’s opponents at Worlds 2024, became “harmless” by continuously missing his ultimate ability. The only time he hit was when the game was already decided, and that was a moment when Zeka positioned Oner perfectly.
However, it can be said that despite not playing as expected in the final game, Oner truly does not deserve criticism. The player born in 2002 was the biggest contributor to T1’s victory in game 4 when he executed a perfect Smite on Atakhan right in front of the HLE members.
Oner’s excellent Smite contest helped limit Peanut’s effectiveness. In fact, the veteran seemed to be a bit “overwhelmed” and made a critical mistake in the Dragon pit during game 5. Notably, from this situation, T1 nearly could have ended the match.
If Oner had not secured the Atakhan buff in game 4, with HLE’s advantage at that time, T1 would have had almost no chance to retaliate. Therefore, in this match, it can be said that Oner still did his job well. In a decisive moment between two powerful names, even the smallest mistake can come at a high price.
Furthermore, Skarner’s ultimate relies heavily on surprise and precision. Given that T1’s opponents are also the world’s top League of Legends superstars, it is completely understandable to miss in a match filled with pressure. Not to mention that in game 5, the moments when T1 gained map control to allow Oner to find good angles for engages with Skarner were extremely rare.
T1 needs to prepare well for the important Regular Season ahead
While the LCK Cup could be justified with the reasoning that “the tournament does not hold much significance and does not affect qualification for Worlds or MSI,” the Regular Seasons 2025 will force T1 to prepare thoroughly. It can be said that one factor for T1’s confidence is that this tournament will apply the standard format, not the Fearless Draft.
However, because of that, no mistakes will be accepted anymore. T1 has been away from the LCK title for too long, and the audience needs them to return to the form of a championship contender rather than relying on the familiar excuse of “Worlds is more important.”