Afreeca Freecs Upset T1 in 2020 LCK Summer Split
Afreeca Freecs (AFS) secured a surprising 2-1 series win against T1 in the 2020 LCK Summer Split playoffs, despite the appearance of Faker from the bench for T1.
AFS: The Gatekeeper of the Playoffs
AFS earned the nickname “gatekeeper of the playoffs” during the regular season. They had a record of 0-2 against teams ranked from first to fourth, but a 2-0 record against squads from sixth to tenth in the standings. This win against T1 marks the first time this split that AFS beat a higher-ranked League of Legends team.
Standout Performances
The mid and bottom laners of AFS played exceptionally well in this match. Fly’s Zoe and Mystic’s Miss Fortune were awarded the Player of the Game honors for their crucial roles in AFS’ victory. Although Fly failed to perform on his Aurelion Sol pick in the second game, his overall performance was impressive.
Faker’s Entry and Game Equalization
T1 started the series with rookie mid laner Clozer. Despite his good performance on Zoe, T1 was dominated in every lane by AFS. Eventually, Faker was substituted in and played a first-pick Twisted Fate. With Faker’s control of the game, T1 looked like a completely different team, displaying confidence in their moves and executing calculated plays. After playing around for 25 minutes, they managed to equalize the series.
AFS’ Victory and T1’s Future
AFS made a crucial decision to bring in jungler Spirit for the third game. His veteran experience helped AFS secure a better early game this time. With Rift Heralds and early drakes in their control, AFS steadily built their advantage and choked out T1. After a teamfight and the takedown of Baron, AFS finished the game and series.
T1’s loss means that they only have one shot at the 2020 World Championship. They will need to go through the regional qualifiers starting on September 7.
Next Round of LCK Playoffs and Follow Us
AFS will now advance to the next round of the LCK playoffs where they will face Gen.G on Friday, August 28 at 3am CT.
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Related Afreeca Freecs, T1, LCK, 2020 LCK Summer Split, playoffs, League of Legends