T1 vs. TES: Only One Prevails at Worlds 2025

The highly anticipated semifinal match at Worlds 2025 features a showdown between T1 and Top Esports (TES). Both teams are eager to prove their worth, but the statistics favor T1 significantly.

T1’s Unmatched Legacy

T1 is gearing up for their tenth appearance at the World Championships. They have never finished lower than the semifinals and hold a remarkable record of 12-0 against LPL teams in best-of-five series at Worlds. As two-time defending champions and three-time finalists, their pedigree is unprecedented.

Top Esports: Seeking Redemption

In contrast, Top Esports is making their fourth appearance at Worlds and only their second semifinal. Their past record against LCK teams in best-of-five series has been less than stellar, as they have never secured a win. This historical context adds extra pressure to their campaign.

Recent Encounters

T1 and TES faced each other multiple times in 2024, resulting in decisive victories for T1. Notable matchups included:

• T1 defeating TES 3-1 in the EWC Grand Final.
• T1 sweeping TES 3-0 in the Worlds quarterfinals.
• TES winning against T1 1-0 during the Swiss Stage competitions.

The overall historical weight is heavily in T1’s favor.

Paths to the Semifinals

Top Esports showcased their strength by eliminating Bilibili Gaming in the Swiss Stage and defeating G2 Esports in the quarterfinals. Earlier this year, they triumphed over Anyone’s Legend in the LPL Summer Split Lower Bracket Final, indicating their growing capability.

T1 had a tougher Swiss Stage, facing defeats against CTBC Flying Oyster and Gen.G. However, their performance in the quarterfinals against AL demonstrated a return to form.

The Experience Factor

Experience plays a crucial role in this semifinal. T1 boasts a seasoned roster, where every player except Doran has participated in multiple semifinals over the last few years. Notably:

• Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok enters his tenth semifinal.
• Mun “Oner” Hyeon-jun, Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong, and Ryu “Keria” Min-seok each have four semifinals under their belts.
• Choi “Doran” Hyeon-joon is competing in his second semifinal.

On the flip side, TES features players with less experience in high-pressure situations. Key members like Lin “Creme” Jian and Fu “Hang” Ming-Hang are participating in their first semifinals, while Yu “JackeyLove” Wen-Bo and Bai “369” Jia-Hao each have three.

The Clash of Generations

The matchup between Faker and Creme symbolizes a generational clash. Faker, with a decade of experience, faces Creme, who is making his debut in a deep World Championship run. The support roles exhibit a similar contrast, as Keria’s aggressive play style meets Hang’s controlled, supportive approach.

Moreover, the botlane clash between Gumayusi and JackeyLove represents two of the most accomplished AD carries, both known for their clutch performances under pressure. This match will also feature a jungle duel between Oner and Kanavi, where experience may be the deciding factor.

Looking Ahead

While T1 stands as the clear favorite in this match, Top Esports has the potential to surprise. The outcome will determine who advances to face either Gen.G or KT Rolster in the grand final, but first, they must overcome this formidable challenge.