At MSI 2024, so far, only 2 matches have gone all the way to game 5, namely the clash between Bilibili Gaming – PSG Talon and G2 Esports – T1. However, the match between G2 and T1 garnered more attention as these two teams share a long-standing rivalry. Moreover, G2 has always been a tough opponent on the international stage. Caps himself had won against Faker 4 times prior to this matchup. Therefore, this encounter was highly anticipated, and the developments and results did not disappoint the viewers.
In a tense showdown like G2 – T1, both teams deserved to win, but only the team that performed better in the most critical moments could end up smiling. And that was T1. G2 players like Caps, Mikyx, and BrokenBlade had every right to feel regret for giving their all. However, the European champion’s roster still had a “black spot”, which was the disappointing performance of AD Carry Hans Sama throughout all 5 games.
In the first two games, he was almost invisible. The standout performances were primarily from G2’s top lane trio, including Caps, Yike, and BrokenBlade. Only in game 5 did G2 have to focus around the AD Carry for Hans Sama to shine from the game’s outset. But no one understood his item build, as Jinx needed more damage items to attack K’Sante, yet G2’s AD Carry opted for Bloodthirster – Ma Vũ. Not to mention, he was standing right in front of T1’s vision as Faker charged in to finish him off before the deciding team fight. That was also the turning point of the match that led to T1’s overall victory. Before that team fight, G2 still had a significant advantage.
Witnessing Hans Sama’s performance, Western audiences couldn’t help but feel exasperated. One blunt opinion stated: “Maybe we should send him to VCS. They are probably in dire need of players. Oh, but with this skill level, they wouldn’t accept him either. He lost to the guy from GAM the other day against FNC.” Meanwhile, LPL viewers rated Hans Sama 2.2 points on HUPU – the lowest score on that platform.
Nevertheless, G2 still has a very high chance of making a comeback, as their next opponent is PSG Talon – a team from a smaller region. However, that does not mean the LEC players can be complacent, especially since PSG Talon just made BLG “break a sweat” to barely get through. A slip-up like in the match against T1 could cost G2 dearly, and they would not get another chance to make it right.