On January 17, 2025, at 10:00 GMT+2, a match between Gen.G Esports and Hanwha Life Esports will take place as part of the group stage of the LCK Cup 2025 in a best-of-3 format. We have reviewed the current team rosters and prepared a forecast for the match result.
Current Form of the Teams
Gen.G Esports
The return of Ruler enhances the potential in the bottom lane, given his experience. Support Duro, with excellent mechanics and game vision, can provide stable support.
However, it is unknown how quickly the new pair will find synergy. It's worth noting that the core of the team placed third last season at Worlds 2024, losing to the champions T1, and first place at MSI 2024.
Hanwha Life Esports
Hanwha Life Esports participated in one of the hottest off-season transfers: Wooje “Zeus” Choi joined the team, becoming the main headline of the off-season.
This transfer strengthened the team's top lane, as Zeus is known for his aggressive play and ability to dominate the lane. His playstyle allows Hanwha Life Esports to effectively build strategies around a strong top lane, which could alter the overall balance of their macro game.
This transfer resulted from a scandal with Zeus's agent, but for Hanwha Life Esports, it became a significant reinforcement.
Head-to-Head Matches
In the last six months, the teams met only once — three months ago. Gen.G won with a score of 2:1, but the match was intense and filled with mistakes on both sides. It's difficult to say how much that was related to the teams' form at the time, as the rosters have changed significantly.
Match Prediction
Given the rosters and prior head-to-head history, a tense battle is expected.
Gen.G are bringing back their star Bot-lane and have an advantage in international tournament experience. It’s hard to make definitive conclusions about their strength at this moment, but they will strive to replicate their success at Worlds 2024.
Hanwha Life Esports have armed themselves with Zeus, creating strong pressure on the top lane. Their game strength largely depends on Zeus's adaptation to the new roster.
In conclusion, a long match with equal chances can be anticipated. However, thanks to stability and experience, Gen.G holds a slight advantage.
Prediction: Gen.G Esports win 2:1
The LCK Cup 2025 is conducted in a group stage and playoffs format involving 10 teams, divided into two groups. Each group consists of 5 teams based on the results of the 2024 tournaments. A quota for the First Stand 2025 is up for grabs. All information about the tournament can be found by following the link.
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