Although both teams had already secured their spots in the Playoffs, the clash between Rare Atom and Suning held significant importance, as the winning team in this match would have the opportunity to improve their ranking on the leaderboard, meaning they could determine their position in the knockout stage.
Rare Atom would break into the top 4 if they defeat Suning, while the Lions would have the chance to rise to the top 6 if they overcome their opponent. Therefore, this match essentially had all the elements of a major battle in the LPL: thrilling and full of surprises.
With an impressive performance in recent seasons, RA has proven they are gradually shedding the “dark horse” label, and had a favorable start against the reigning World Championship runner-up. SN also showed they are no pushovers, delivering an incredibly strong second game to equalize the score, thanks to the outstanding performance of AD carry Huanfeng.
However, the final victory was claimed by RA, as they employed more reasonable strategies in game 3 and defeated SN with a powerful late-game composition. This victory officially secured RA a spot in the top 4, and if they continue to win against IG in their final match, they will certainly remain in the top 6, meaning they will play in the Playoffs from the second round.
For SN, the loss to RA leaves SofM and his teammates with few chances to reach the top 6, and it is almost certain that this team will start their Playoff campaign right from the first round. This will undoubtedly be a relatively difficult challenge for SN, but once they enter the final stretch, no one can underestimate their ability to “perform in big matches.”
Despite losing to RA, today was a special milestone for AD carry Huanfeng. He just achieved his 100th victory after 2 years competing in the LPL, with a “team-carrying” performance in the second game.
Huanfeng can be considered a bright spot for SN in the 2021 season, as he has been the most consistent performer for this team, helping SN secure extremely important points in the late spring and early summer stages.