VCT Pacific League Finals Week Preview and Predictions
Following an adrenaline-fueled weekend of action, the VCT Pacific League Stage 1 Mid Season Playoffs concluded last week with the region's top three teams clinching their berths for the upcoming VCT Masters Shanghai.
Now, with just two matches left, excitement mounts as we approach the pinnacle of competition. In this preview, we examine the remaining contenders, dissecting their strengths, tactics, and the high stakes they face in their quest for the illustrious title of VCT Pacific champion.
T1 vs Gen.G
May 11 | 5pm KST | 10am CEST | 1am PDT
The first match of finals week is a revenge matchup between T1 and Gen.G. the two teams faced off against each other in the previous week, and T1 came out as the victor of that match.
T1
T1 entered the playoffs as the underestimated underdog, with many predicting their early exit at the hands of Team Secret in the knockout round. However, T1 defied expectations by triumphing over Team Secret and subsequently besting Gen.G, showcasing their tenacious form.
Their ascent to the upper bracket finals saw them pitted against PRX in a highly anticipated brotherly clash, but PRX emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, relegating T1 to the Lower Bracket Finals.
Despite this setback, T1 has exhibited commendable prowess, particularly through standout performances from players like Ha "Sayaplayer" Jung-woo and Kevin "xccurate" Susanto, consistently delivering impactful plays. As they gear up for their upcoming matches, T1 aims to replicate their previous success against Gen.G and seeks redemption against PRX in their pursuit of the VCT Pacific crown.
T1 beat Gen.G to claim their VCT Masters Shanghai Spot during VCT Pacific Playoffs (Image Source: VCT Pacific | Riot Games)Gen.G
Gen.G, once formidable champions of the VCT Pacific Kickoff and finalists at VCT Masters Madrid, now appear to be a mere shadow of their former dominance. The team has grappled with inconsistency, evident in defeats against RRQ during the group stage and T1 in the playoffs.
However, underestimating Gen.G would be a mistake. Despite their struggles, the Korean powerhouse demonstrated resilience by eliminating rivals DRX in the Lower Bracket semifinal.
With only Kim "t3xture" Na-ra maintaining consistent performances, the rest of the squad must elevate their game. If Gen.G have any hopes to reclaim their throne in the Pacific region.
Given recent performances, T1 is our pick to win in this matchup.
Paper Rex vs TBD
May 12 | 5pm KST | 10am CEST | 1am PDT
The winner of the previous matchup will face off against the final boss of the Pacific Region, Paper Rex.
Paper Rex has been enjoying a stellar tournament run, with their only setback being a loss to DRX, which they avenged impressively during the playoffs.
Paper Rex beat T1 to secure their place in the VCT Pacific Grand Finals (Image Source: VCT Pacific | Riot Games)Maintaining an unblemished record, PRX showcased their dominance in their recent match against T1, securing a convincing 2-0 victory. Their exceptional performance also included a record-setting 13-0 triumph over Talon on Lotus in the knockout round.
With the return of Wang "Jinggg" Jing Jie to the squad, PRX has regained their full strength. And is now firing on all cylinders. Though they narrowly missed out on the VCT Pacific Kickoff title to Gen.G, PRX is determined to seize victory in this tournament.
Looking at their current form, Paper Rex are our pick to win this matchup, and claim the title of VCT Pacific Champions.
Featured Image Source: VCT Pacific | Riot Games
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