After losing to Rare Atom in the penultimate match, Suning had almost no chance to improve their position on the leaderboard. Therefore, their final match in the group stage against ThunderTalk Gaming was almost just a rehearsal in preparation for the upcoming intense LPL Summer 2021 Playoffs.
For TT, the team also had little motivation as they were firmly seated in the bottom 2 of the ranking. In such a meaningless match, SN achieved a rather easy victory against an opponent considered much weaker.
Entering the match with a relaxed mindset, in both games, Suning opted for a ban/pick strategy heavily focused on individual skills. And when the opponent couldn’t exert much pressure, SN comfortably showcased their finest qualities.
In both games, their overwhelming laning ability and strong team fighting composition allowed the lions to gain an early advantage, and Angel – who had relatively lackluster performances throughout the season, finally had a chance to shine with a double MVP.
By finishing the group stage in the top 7 – 9 position, Suning will be one of the 4 teams participating in the Playoffs right from the first round. To reach the finals or at least secure a spot in the top 4, they will have to go through 5 best-of-five elimination matches – a monumental challenge for the reigning World Championship runner-up in their quest for a ticket to this tournament.