The playoff stage is ahead, and the first semifinal match will feature T1 against EDward Gaming. The match promises to be thrilling, and below, we will analyze the form of both teams and try to predict the outcome.
Current Form of the Teams
T1
Once the underdogs of the Korean scene, T1 has now become one of the main favorites in their region. Thanks to major roster changes, the team had an excellent off-season, winning two tournaments and performing well in the initial Kickoff qualifiers, securing second place. At the current tournament, the squad successfully defeated their long-time rivals, DRX, breaking an eight-game losing streak against them. Over the last five matches, they secured three victories against DRX, Trace Esports, and Gen.G, while suffering two losses against DRX and Team Vitality.
| Team | Score | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| T1 | 2 - 0 | DRX |
| T1 | 2 - 0 | Trace Esports |
| T1 | 0 - 2 | Team Vitality |
| T1 | 2 - 3 | DRX |
| T1 | 3 - 2 | Gen.G Esports |
| T1 | 1 - 2 | DRX |
| T1 | 2 - 1 | TALON |
| T1 | 2 - 1 | Paper Rex |
| T1 | 2 - 1 | BOOM Esports |
This is probably the best form the club has ever been in. The victory over previously unbeatable opponents and their high placement in the current tournament show how a timely roster change can significantly improve results. Yes, this match will be tough for them, but they have already demonstrated their ability to defeat stronger opponents.
EDward Gaming
The reigning world champions are currently the strongest team in China and arguably in the world. After last year, the squad showed relatively average results during the offseason, likely because the players wanted to conserve energy. However, the subsequent VCT 2025: China Kickoff qualifiers brought them first place. At this event, EDward Gaming has played two matches and won both, proving their strength even on the international stage. In their last five encounters, they secured four wins against G2, Team Liquid, Bilibili Gaming, and Trace Esports, with their only loss coming against JDG.
| Team | Score | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| EDward Gaming | 2 - 1 | G2 Esports |
| EDward Gaming | 2 - 0 | Team Liquid |
| EDward Gaming | 0 - 2 | JD Gaming |
| EDward Gaming | 3 - 1 | Trace Esports |
| EDward Gaming | 3 - 0 | Bilibili Gaming |
| EDward Gaming | 2 - 0 | Dragon Ranger Gaming |
| EDward Gaming | 2 - 1 | XLG Esports |
| EDward Gaming | 0 - 2 | Trace Esports |
| EDward Gaming | 2 - 0 | Nova Esports |
As the results show, EDward Gaming has not lost their form and is confidently defeating top-tier opponents like G2, allowing them to advance this far. While they are the clear favorites in this match, the victory will not come easily.
Map Pool Predictions
Expected Bans:
- T1 will likely ban Bind.
- EDward Gaming will probably remove Split.
Expected Picks:
- T1 might opt for an unexpected Haven.
- EDward Gaming could go for an off-meta Fracture.
Head-to-Head Record
In the past six months, these teams have faced each other only once—at the Gwangju Esports Series Asia 2024, where T1 emerged victorious with a 2-0 score. However, it is important to note that this was not an official tournament, so EDward Gaming likely did not take it seriously.
Match Prediction
There are no weak teams left in the playoff stage, and both participants are currently the strongest in their respective regions. However, despite all the difficulties T1 has overcome, we believe they will struggle to defeat the world champions. Therefore, we predict a victory for EDward Gaming, but not without a fight.
Predicted Outcome: EDward Gaming wins 2-1
Masters Bangkok 2025 runs from February 20 to March 2 in a LAN format at UOB Live. Eight partnered teams - two from each region - are competing for a $500,000 prize pool, VCT Points required for Championship qualification, and the prestigious title of champion.
Comments