As we know, at MSI 2024, T1 had to go through an extremely difficult journey and Team Liquid was considered the “easiest” challenge among the four teams that Faker and his teammates had to “climb the tower” against. However, it was clear that even in the match against TL, the LCK Spring 2024 runners-up faced some minor operational issues. This is completely understandable as the T1 members themselves admitted that the lane swap meta was challenging them and the players had to gradually adapt through each match.
Notably, T1’s critical weakness has been identified by their opponents, who frequently exploit this factor. Lane swapping is a meta that is not easy to adapt to because lane swap strategies in League of Legends have existed for a long time and have waned. However, from G2 Esports to TL, they have thoroughly executed this strategy when facing T1, causing Faker and his teammates a lot of difficulties. From a team that has one of the strongest Top and Bottom lanes in the world, T1 has almost always had to play catch-up against their opponents. As Gumayusi himself admitted, they cannot win their lanes if they have to constantly move from one side to the other.
Moreover, opponents are no longer anxious or humble when facing T1. In a mic-check segment that was accidentally leaked during the recent match day, even former LCK star UmTi bluntly stated: “Don’t worry, this is the worst T1 I’ve ever seen.” For those who may not know, this mic-check was before the match started, and UmTi used it to motivate his teammates.
However, it’s worth mentioning that UmTi’s statement was… “so true that it can’t be argued.” Because everyone can see that, except for the phase of the Play-In that was way out of their level, T1 has faced difficulties in all their matches during this MSI group stage. Nevertheless, the lane swap meta is still very unfamiliar. Changing a playstyle that has become a habit, the strongest point that helped T1 to become champions is not something that can be done overnight. The players themselves also show effort, and clearly, they may be weak but they will not be easily subdued.
The first hurdle has been passed, and the next opponent is the mighty G2, even stronger than TL. Of course, the T1 squad cannot be complacent, but they will have more time to improve before facing their long-standing rivals again.