This weekend, the Mercedes-Benz arena will host the League of Legends World Championship Finals, featuring the top two teams in the tournament. SKT T1 and the Koo Tigers have proven themselves to be the best in the competition and will battle it out for the Summoner’s Cup in Berlin. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated final, including story lines, player comparisons, pick/ban strategies, and a prediction for the outcome.

Story Lines

The matchup between SKT T1 and the Koo Tigers brings an intriguing storyline. Both teams have been dominant in the Korean scene, with the Koo Tigers emerging as the new force in the LCK Spring Split, only to be toppled by SKT T1 in the finals. The Koo Tigers, composed of outcasts from other teams, have brought new strategies and innovations to the game. On the other hand, SKT T1’s roster consists of impact players who have developed into major threats under the leadership of coach Kkoma.

Head-to-Head Positional Comparison

Let’s compare the players from both teams in each position.

Marin vs. Smeb

In the top lane, both Marin and Smeb have shown stellar performances throughout the season and the World Championship. While Marin excels in team fights, Smeb dominates his opponents in the laning phase. Overall, Smeb’s individual play slightly edges out Marin’s. Advantage Smeb.

Bengi vs. Hojin

Hojin has performed well for the Koo Tigers, but Bengi has been the standout jungler of the tournament. His ability to roam and create early game advantages for SKT T1 gives him the advantage in this matchup. Advantage Bengi.

Faker vs. Kuro

Faker, widely regarded as the best League of Legends player of all time, will face off against Kuro. While Kuro has been criticized in the past, he has performed well in this tournament. However, Faker’s aggressive playstyle and sheer brilliance give him the advantage in this matchup. Advantage Faker.

Bang vs. Pray

Bang has emerged as a dominant player in the bot lane, especially on Kalista. Pray was a strong player in the past, but Bang’s recent performances make him the favored player in this matchup. Advantage Bang.

Wolf vs. Gorilla

Gorilla, the unsung hero of the Koo Tigers, has been instrumental in their success this season. His playmaking abilities and exceptional warding give him the advantage over Wolf. Advantage Gorilla.

Easyhoon vs. Wisdom

Easyhoon, the substitute midlaner for SKT T1, offers a different playstyle and champion pool compared to Faker. This strategic advantage gives him the upper hand over Wisdom, who has yet to play a game at Worlds. Advantage Easyhoon.

Kkoma vs. NoFe

Kkoma, the coach of SKT T1, is renowned for his strategic prowess and the success he has brought to the team. NoFe, the coach of the Koo Tigers, has done well but is outmatched by Kkoma’s expertise. Advantage Kkoma.

Pick/Ban Hypotheses

In the pick/ban phase, we can expect red side to ban Lulu, Gangplank, and Tahm Kench. Gragas, currently disabled, may also be banned. Both teams have shown a strong preference for Elise, so if she is not banned, she will likely be picked by blue side. Zac could be a wildcard pick, as Hojin excelled on the champion in the semifinals. Expect high priority on Fiora, as both Marin and Smeb have performed well on her. The strategies for pick/ban will heavily depend on how SKT T1 utilizes Easyhoon, their substitute midlaner with a unique champion pool.

Prediction

My prediction is that SKT T1 will win the World Championship Finals with a score of 3-1. While Smeb will put up a strong fight, SKT T1’s depth and surprise strategies, including the utilization of Easyhoon, will give them the edge. Faker will shine and be named the tournament’s MVP.

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Photo credit to: lolesports, the ongamers.net Youtube channel, inven.co.kr, Koo tigers twitter account

Statistical credit to: oracleselixer.com, lol.gamepedia.com, lolesports